Batang Kyusi

Ongpin Street

2009-11-23T09:46:00.005+08:00

This busy street was named after Don Roman Ongpin, a Chinese businessman who staunchly helped the katipuneros fight the Spanish. He continued his support to our freedom fighters even until the Americans have arrived in our shore and displaced our former enemy.

Today, people from all over the metro brave the traffic and flock to this place to have a taste of what is considered the best and most authentic Chinese cuisine in the country. Those who are into glitz and glamour will not be disappointed with the wide selection of gold jewelries this commercial district has to offer.

La Loma Lechon

2009-11-22T12:02:00.004+08:00

Touted as the lechon capital of the Philippines (this will surely warrant a lot of comments from our Cebuano friends), La Loma is a district in Quezon City where they prepare all these mouth-watering lechon (spit-roated pig). Mila's, Mang Tomas, Ping-Ping - some of the popular names when it comes to lechon baboy (and baka, manok.)

It's said that it was Mang Tomas who started this industry way back in the early '50s. At that time, Mang Tomas was only selling pork around his neighborhood. His house was in front of the La Loma Cockpit Arena. After a day's worth of betting, some of the cockpit fanatics would buy pork from him and ask for it to be roasted to serve as their pulutan (finger food that usually accompanies beer drinking). In the long run, he decided to just sell roasted pork. And the rest, as they say, is history.

This photo was taken last month when my T and I went "touristy" in our own city. It was fun, you should try it. Anyway, I'm posting it today because the holidays are coming and maybe some of you are looking for a place to buy lechon or even a place where you can bring your balikbayan friends/family members. Trust me, its a very interesting place. Full of good food and rich history.

Xie-xie

2009-10-19T12:42:00.003+08:00

Been a while since I last posted here. Somewhere along the way, real life (moved house, got married, et cetera, et cetera) caught up with me. Am just happy that things are slowly returning to its old way.

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Alrighty then, last Saturday my T and I decided to take advantage of the calm before the storm (Typhoon Ramil expecting to hit the northern part of country this midweek) and headed off to the Manila Chinese Cemetery. One bus ride and two train transfers after we finally reached our destination. We used the south gate as the one in the north is almost always close. We were greeted by two guards who, in a way, insisted that we use the services of a tour guide which was not really a bad thing considering the cemetery is about 60 hectares and the chances of missing the really interesting places was pretty high should we decide to wander on our own. Our guide was also a caretaker of the mausoleums inside. He's 62 years old and he (claims that he) was born in the cemetery (that totally freaked me out!)

Now for a little background: The Manila Chinese Cemetery is the second oldest in Manila and was the resting place of the Chinese citizens who were denied burial by the Catholic church during the Spanish occupation. It is considered the City of the Dead. Its mausoleums are lavish and come with almost all creature comforts that we know of (home furnishings, A/C, etc.).

One thing I found weird was the altar of Buddha, the Virgin Mary, Confucius and other famous religious leaders. Some practitioners may find that juxtaposition a little strange but I think the subliminal message there was that there is no need for religious wars. (My apologies for the blurred image below. It was almost sunset and we were losing good light.)

Admission fee: Free
Tour guide fee: Negotiable

Happy 2009!

2009-01-04T18:57:00.002+08:00

Wow. I can't even remember the last time I posted in here. Short of making excuses, allow me to say that I have been working on some "serious" project which took most of my time. One of my 2009 resolutions is to post more photos (at least before I leave for Europe on February).

Most of the time I am out of town with only my camera to keep me company. Good thing the view is excellent and the weather (and lighting) is perfect most of the time. The photo above was taken from the Aeta village. It shows the first leg of the 4x4 drive en route to the jump-off of the mountain.

A little background: Mount Pinatubo exploded on 1991 - it was considered as one of the most violent explosions of the 21st century. It also made the Americans (finally) leave their military bases. Several years after, the Philippine tourism initiated a program to help the local community. They opened Mount Pinatubo for tourists - both local and foreigners. Today, tourism is one of the major industry in the Tarlac area (second only to producing sugar from sugar cane).

Childhood

2008-11-14T23:58:00.004+08:00

Last time I posted here was some weeks ago. I hardly have the time to pick up my camera and capture images. I guess that's the reason why I'm posting these photos. I miss my childhood. The time when all I cared for was play. All I want was to have fun. Twenty eight years of existence may seem not too long but it can be tiring. And stressful.

I was checking my photo archive and the first image that I saw was this.

A beaming little boy who was so happy because it was his time to be "up" -a time to fly.

For some, it was a chance to see things from a different angle, another perspective.

And for the rest, to just take it easy and smile. For the camera. And for life.

*all photos were taken at Krus na Ligas Park. Ann Pablo copyright, 2007*

Starting early

2008-10-28T10:11:00.003+08:00

I took this photo while I was walking along Timog Avenue where some road constructions were being done. The little boy was trying to salvage the plastic pipes from the pile of debris so he can sell it later and buy today's meal.

This, ladies and gentlemen, is one of my pet peeves. Missed chances in childhood are rarely regained later in their lives - childhood is that sole window of opportunity and development. Childhood poverty, even for a brief period of time, can greatly affect how they will live their lives. Studies indicate that poor health and life-long learning difficulties are strongly correlated with malnutrition in early childhood.

It will not come as a surprise if we see some of today's poor children as tomorrow's poor parents. Poverty can be passed on from generation to generation. Addressing childhood poverty is therefore essential for ending poverty and injustice around the world.

It's a pet's world after all...

2008-10-27T09:06:00.004+08:00

Halloween always bring out the inner child on most people. Now if those people have pets in their keeping, then one can expect a herd of well-garbed animals come this season. Yesterday, PAWS in cooperation with Eastwood City organized a grand Halloween costume party for children and their furry friends. It was a fundraiser which they called "Scaredy Cats and Dogs: Year 4". Proceeds is for the benefit of the PAWS Animal Shelter.

I actually wanted to bring my Patric (a Siamese cat) but we both realized that it will be much better for mankind if I just go by myself while he spoil himself silly in my bed. You know how cats are - you don't realy own them; they own you.

The event was well-attended by cute little tots and their four-legged pets all dressed up and made-up to impress. This photo is of one of the participants. Check out the sign she's holding. I thought it was really cool.

Food Fair

2008-10-19T09:59:00.004+08:00

Saturday evening was spent at Eastwood City for QTV's Tara Let's Eat! Food Fair. As expected, there were scrumptious food everywhere with hundreds of buzzing people around wolfing them down in no time. I saw familiar food shops which I've been frequenting since I was in college like Green's Cafe (vegetarian and vegan food)and Friuli Trattoria (classical Italian cuisine). There were also stalls that I'm unfamiliar with like Kublai Rock (Mongolian Restaurant), Tofurrific (soy milk and other soy products), Tsoko.nut Batirol (local tablea chocolates), Delimondo and other cuisines both local and international. I was surprised to see The Artist Chef (Joan Manalang) in the event. She's an art director for a local advertising company, a painter and a cook as well and she does a perfect job of fusing art with good food to create an intimate dining experience in her small but cozy place in Makati.

All in all, I'd say that the event was a success. I think it was nice that admission at the food fair was free and they threw in lots of freebies (an apron, two free bottles of flavored sparkling water, have your photo digitally printed at the YKL booth for free) and a raffle stub for their hourly draw. I was lucky enough to have my number drawn and so I now have a red (!) shawl in my closet:D

Plus

2008-10-16T08:47:00.000+08:00

The very few times that I take a taxi cab, I almost always end up having a verbal clash with the driver. At the height of the oil crisis mid-2008, the LTFRB had this "brilliant" idea of legalizing the act of some taxi drivers on asking for more money from their passengers especially during rush hour and heavy traffic.

As indicated in the sticker, a passenger needs to pay 10 pesos more on top of what is indicated on the meter to "augment" the cab driver's "suffering" caused by the petrol problem. They are allegedly no longer earning anything because 1) they are stuck on traffic limiting the number of passengers they can pick-up, and 2) the price of gasoline was skyrocketing.

I was okay with the fare add-on at that time. I somehow understand where they're coming from, I think. What I can't fathom is the reason why these stickers are still on display and the drivers are still asking for more when in fact the price of gasoline has dropped. Will these stickers ever be removed? Shall I hold my breath?

No!

2008-10-15T09:03:00.003+08:00

One of life's mysteries for me is that some things are not allowed to be captured in a camera. As an (amateur) photographer, nothing makes me more happy than to take a photo of a sweeping landscape, a majestic building, a macro shot of a flower, a candid smile from a friend or a stranger and share it to the rest of the viewing world. Whenever I go to Makati, I have to resort to using my point and shoot camera as its less visible to the evil eyes of the guards. Even here in Quezon City I always get a not-so friendly reprimand from the watchdogs the moment I lift my camera to take a snap shot of something interesting. What's up with that? Can somebody help me understand?

Anyway, I took this photo at the La Mesa Eco Park (where its obviously fobidden to do so) in the spirit of defiance.

How about you? Did you ever take a "forbidden shot"?

Seeing double

2008-10-14T09:14:00.006+08:00

I love my glass window. It always provide me with visually stimulating images such as this. This was taken just after a brief downpour. At first I thought it was your regular rainbow, with the regular set of colors. But as I focused my viewfinder more closely, I noticed on the left a second, dimmer, and thicker secondary rainbow. It was caused by a double reflection of sunlight inside the raindrops. Notice that the colors of the secondary rainbow is reverse that of the primary one. It lasted only for a minute or two but it was unforgettable.

Its times like these that I am reminded how beautiful life is.

Its images like this which make me grateful for being alive.

Santa baby

2008-10-13T09:12:00.006+08:00

Here in the Philippines, Christmas (un)officially starts on the 1st day of September. Absurd as it may sound, it is common to see houses now being adorned with parol (christmas lanterns), wreaths and christmas lights. Major establishments and malls start playing christmas carols and one's own village start posting ads for their own christmas bazaars. The Philippines, arguably, have the longest Christmas celebration ending up until the Feast of the Epiphany on the first Sunday of the following year (!).

And as if that's not enough, this little shop I found has all the christmas decors you can think of on display with the obligatory christmas jingles playing on the background (which plays ALL YEAR ROUND, by the way). Whoa! When I visited the shop, there were several people purchasing fake snow(?) and some reindeers for their garden. I will never understand that, but hey, if it floats their boat, right? By the way, the shop is called Lane Crawford and they're located at Timog Avenue cor. EDSA.

Have a great Monday everyone :D

And so it is: Adidas King of the Road 2008

2008-10-11T09:01:00.007+08:00

Posting this an hour and a half after I crossed the finish line. Yes, I survived :) With a pace of 9:30, I'd say its not bad for someone who's nursing a bad knee.

The event was very much well-attended with over 5, 000 runners from all shapes and sizes proudly donning their race bib and out to test their limit. There were very young sprinters and there were some senior racers. The tough ones joined the 21km race. Weekend warriors like me opted for the tamer 10km. The rest went for the 5km.

Anyway, I took this photo a few minutes just before the race gun was fired. Geez. These men have hairy legs :D

Enjoy your Saturday, people.

Carbo-loading

2008-10-10T06:12:00.001+08:00

I usually blame my active lifestyle for my insane consumption of everything starchy. Especially now that I have several races to finish this year, it is common to see me glut on bread, noodles and all the carbohydrate staple you can find in the food chain. As I am writing this post, I am halfway through my second bowl of pesto pasta. And yes, its my breakfast.

Tomorrow will be the Adidas King of the Road. I will run and finish it and then dash off to the closest bakeshop and buy myself some bread, just like those cute little pastries in the photo. By the way, those were from Bread Talk - one of my favorite haunts in the baking universe. They serve delightful goodies for all.

Anyway, I wish for a good weather tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll make it to the finish line without passing out. Cheers!

Krus na Ligas

2008-10-09T00:01:00.001+08:00

Being a former resident of Krus na Ligas, I find it appropriate to give a little information on this popular area around the UP campus. Legend has it that during the occupation, a Spanish soldier passing by the village asked one of its inhabitants for the name of the place. Since the soldier was gesturing towards a poison ivy tree (locally called ligas) where an old chapel stood (and still stands 200 years after), the local thought that the Spaniard was asking for the name of the tree. He answered Krus na Ligas and the name stuck on to this day.

All in a day's work

2008-10-07T17:56:00.005+08:00

Posting late today. I just got discharged from the hospital due to severe abdominal pains. Anyway, I saw this while I was on my way home. I can only imagine what the owner of the bike does with all the curious things attached to his two-wheeled companion. That's all for now. Cheers!

QC Trivia

2008-10-06T00:41:00.003+08:00

I know what you're thinking, "That's obviously not taken from Quezon City. That's Taal Volcano for crying out loud!". True. So, what is this image doing in this blog?

Did you know that sometime in 1936, the Department of Public Works and Communications of the Commonwealth government, under Secretary Mariano Jesus Cuenco, suggested Tagaytay to be the seat of the national government?!? At that time, they felt that Manila as a capital was becoming too congested for administrative functions. So they recommended the transfer of the capital from Manila to Tagaytay(!).

Former President Quezon rejected the idea as he thought that Tagaytay, which he referred to as "the city by the ridge", is a place for tourists and vacationists. He felt that it is more of a weekend spot for public officials, businessmen and the middle class.

In the morning of September 27, 1939, the President with some cabinet members and some assemblymen, visited Diliman. There he underscored the “necessity of early approval of the charter of the proposed city in Diliman site.” Later, Assemblyman Ramon P. Mitra (Mountain Province, 2nd district) would father a bill for the new city's creation. In his bill, the city was called Balintawak City.

More trivias to follow. Enjoy your Monday! :D

His Art, Our Heart

2008-10-05T00:16:00.000+08:00

Quezon City has very good museums. They may not be as enormous as those found on other parts of the world, but they do provide interesting collections. The other day, I visited the Vargas Museum to look at some of the works of the country's first National Artist, Fernando Cueto Amorsolo (1892-1972). The exhibit, entitled Capturing Anxieties: Amorsolo, His Contemporaries and Pictures of the War, is part of a four month, multi venue exposition of his works collectively called His Art, Our Heart.

I must admit that I only think of paintings of idyllic landscapes (just like the photo I posted here - Rice Planting, 1943, oil on canvas) and portraits whenever his name is mentioned, the Vargas Museum exhibit showased his works depicting the Philippines as a wartorn nation, under the Japanese during the second world war.

Muses

2008-10-04T00:27:00.003+08:00

Created by National Artist Napoleon Abueva, the Siyam na Diwata ng Sining (Nine Muses of Arts) was to represent the muses of the theatre, literature, architecture, painting, sculpture, dance, music, film and the computer arts. This wonderful piece of work is located at the College of Arts and Letters in the UP Diliman campus. I am posting a photo of it with only five of them. This was taken from just under the shade, right about on the middle to showcase the trees as well as the sky.

UP Acad Oval

2008-10-03T09:15:00.005+08:00

The recently implemented "One way Acad Oval Scheme" has generated mixed reactions from the UP community. According to Dr. Cynthia Gregorio, vice chancellor for community affairs, the one way scheme was the initial phase in the implementation of the UP Traffic Management Plan. Under this plan, the university oval was divided into two lanes: the outer lane for motor vehicles and the inner lane to serve as a bike lane. Its goal is to lessen the volume of vehicles passing through the campus thereby reducing pollution and risks for the students.Most of the jeepney drivers are against it as they need to spend much more gasoline going in circles just so it won't violate the one-way policy. And since the buildings inside the campus are not necessarily close to each other, the passengers (students) end up spending more time before they can reach their next class. On the other hand, some preferred the change as the oval doesn't look like it is in such a mess as when the two-way scheme was still implemented.

I personally like the new scheme. As a runner, I now feel more comfortable doing my usual rounds under the shade of enormous acacia trees with jeepneys coming only from one direction.

High Art

2008-10-02T10:08:00.006+08:00

Named Specific Gravity, this huge suspended boulder is sure to make you stop on your track and ponder for a while, circle around it or play with the dripping water from the big rock supported by three metal posts.

Sculptor Reg Yuson (shown in photo: pony-tailed, long hair/white shirt) believes that art is supposed to initiate thought. So when you look at that big rock, it is really more about you (the viewer) than it is the about the boulder (the subject). Its goal is to make the looker think how he is connected to his surroundings through his relation with gravity.

October Theme Day: Lines

2008-10-01T10:03:00.002+08:00

This photo was taken from the inside of University of the Philippines Ang Bahay ng Alumni. I just like the way the colors of the stained glass provide an attractive and dramatic contrast to the bell tower outside (on the lower left). These colorful windows at the front provide lighting at the assembly hall and main corridors at daytime. At night, they are backlighted by several metal halide lamps making it a beautiful directional sign especially during social affairs.

By the way, its the monthly theme day. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants.

Almost but not quite

2008-09-27T13:43:00.006+08:00

The boy scout monument that I have blogged here before is almost finished. It is interesting to note that they have added a life sized figure of the city's first mayor, Tomas Morato. Its like he's watching over the diners and on the restaurant district of the city. Very nice touch. I just wish that the entire monument gets done real soon. It will really ease the traffic in the area.

Make her cry with joy

2008-09-19T18:16:00.005+08:00

Survey says that women love flowers, probably up there with the shoe addiction. It may not be Valentine's Day nor her birthday, but if you do decide to surprise her with a bunch of lovely flora, please do consider the Manila Seedling Bank Foundation, Inc. Located at the corner of Quezon Avenue and EDSA, it offers a wide array of flowering and fruit bearing plants. Herbs, seeds, pots and other gardening needs are also available should you wish you to cultivate your green thumb.

You've been warned

2008-09-11T00:01:00.001+08:00

When I took this photo, the boy's parents were not with him. He seemed not to care, though -oblivious to the the danger that may happen if he take a few more steps towards the bank. All he wants is his catch for the day.

I know its raining and that this photo is not exactly about a gloomy, gray day but I was hoping that this will somehow brighten up your day. Anyway, I'm heading to Kawayan Cove in Nasugbu, Batangas for a little education :)

Holy!

2008-09-10T12:17:00.001+08:00

Here's another Quezon Memorial entry. This one is aptly called the "House of Worship". Its one of the bas reliefs that one can see from the outside of the shrine. It was installed in the 1980's, but with the looks of it, needs some overhauling real soon. When I took this photo, there were several men fixing some of the other broken parts of the monument. I hope they don't forget this one, too.

Anyway, I am posting this to show that the city is composed of people with different religions. Although the majority of the population is Roman Catholic, the Protestant, Iglesia ni Cristo, Islamic, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Jehovah's Witnesses faith are well represented here among other religious denominations.

Its a Wednesday and from where I sit, it looks like the rain will not stop. Stay dry :)

Slumber Power

2008-09-09T12:49:00.002+08:00

Found this one inside the UP campus. It looks like someone's body clock has been messed up with all the schoolwork (or excessive partying, perhaps) that he/she just paint-sprayed his frustration on a wall hoping that it will cure his/her insomnia. Or maybe its intended for another person who is the reason why he/she is still up. Whatever the case may be, I felt a cosmic connection to the poor person who did this. I have been and still is agressively battling the worst jetlag I've ever had in my entire life. They say that recovery time is usually one day per time zone but 10 hours of sleep after a week sounds unhealthy to me. Didn't mean to gripe. Blame it on sleep deprivation. Anyway, I hope all of you are well rested.

Under

2008-09-08T12:46:00.005+08:00

Sixty seven years after the cornerstone of the Quezon Memorial Circle was first laid, the first underpath was constructed from the park to the city hall. It was named after the current mayor, Feliciano Belmonte, Jr.

When I took this photo, there were very few people down there. Maybe its the lack of sufficient lighting that scares them off. Or maybe, they'd still prefer the thrill that is brought to them when they run for their lives when crossing the main highway. Admit it or not, Pinoys are not exactly popular on following traffic and pedestrian rules. Its a Monday and I hope you all stay safe on the road.

Clumsy?

2008-09-07T02:55:00.000+08:00

I don't know about you but I always have the inclination to point my camera towards the funny and bizarre. I saw this signage while traversing the inner belly of Quezon City.

I'm not sure if its the owner's name but I do hope its not a description of how they do things right there.

Quezon Memorial

2008-09-05T16:41:00.006+08:00

Back from Paris. Its been a while since I last posted here. Allow me to kickstart my photoblog again with a photo of a water reflection of the Quezon Memorial.

The late President Sergio Osmeña created the Quezon Memorial Committee after the second world war. Its first task was to hold a nationwide contest for architects and artists to submit for a design of monument and resting place for Quezon - the first Commonwealth president and Osmena's predecessor. Federico Ilustre won the competition. The monument- 66 metres high- is located right smack in the center of the park. Its height was chosen to represent the age of late president at the time of his death (of tuberculosis while in exile in the US during the World War II). Looking closely, you can see three mourning angels each holding a sampaguita garland, sitting on top of the big pylons with their parallel wings pointing up. The angels stand for Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao - the country's three major group of islands - while the three-sided base was said to represent birth, life, and death. The three angels were made by the Italian sculptor Francesco Ricardo Monti.

Have a good weekend to all. Cheers!

Meet your maker

2008-08-04T10:27:00.002+08:00

Make sure to take your daily vitamins. You wouldn't want to get sick and go to this hospital.

Frontera Verde

2008-08-02T11:18:00.004+08:00

“Mankind is not a circle with a single center but an ellipse with two focal points of which facts are one and ideas the other.”
-Victor Hugo

Tiendesitas (little stores) is popular for offering the best of Philippine products. They have these little villages named according to what they sell (e.g. art, antiques, furniture). And since I would really like to give a little something to my lovely hosts in France next week, I opted to brave the traffic never mind that the commute will be mostly idling my car and not really driving.

Anyway, Tiendesitas did not disappoint me and this landmark outside of the main entrance was an add-on.

August Theme Day: Metal

2008-08-01T15:32:00.003+08:00

In this day and age where everybody should be conserving, this decor just does the job. Kudos to the genius who made this brilliant work of art.

Its Theme Day today at CDP, click here to view thumbnails for all participants.

Hang on

2008-07-25T00:01:00.001+08:00

When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.
-Thomas Jefferson

Coffee Pot(ty)

2008-07-24T00:01:00.003+08:00

Considered to be the world's most expensive coffee, these beans are actually Philippine civet (Paradoxorus Philippinensis) droppings. Now, now before you reach for your barf bag, allow me to elaborate. These civets (known as alamid in the Philippines) eat coffee berries as part of their diet. The inner bean of the berry remain undigested and are eliminated by them which are then harvested, washed and slightly roasted by the farmers. Its said that the digestive enzymes of the civet give the coffee that yummy taste. I am not sure about that as I haven't tasted it yet given its astronomical price. Hopefully, this post might take me somewhere *wink, wink*.

For more information on the coffee alamid, click here.

Marlboro country?

2008-07-23T09:34:00.005+08:00

Someone who had spare paint was creative enough, triggered perhaps by nicotine, to create this huge replica of a cigarette from an old post. Make a mental note of checking it out when you happen to be at C.P. Garcia.

Colorful ride

2008-07-22T00:00:00.006+08:00

Around the fourth quarter of last year, Coca-Cola launched an ad campaign to promote their product by having the UP jeepney owners put a life size figure of the Coke bottle on the roofs of their jeeps and the vibrant images and slogans on the vehicle's body. It was a smash at that time especially for the students who take these jeepneys to go from one building to another within the university.

I no longer see them on the campus. Pardon my getting sentimental, but I can't help it with all the fare increases here and there. Some drivers charge a minimum of 8 pesos while some are pegging it at 8.50. Jeez! I wish they can all make up their minds. And I want the red jeepneys back.

The Boy Scout Monument

2008-07-21T00:37:00.010+08:00

All along you're wondering "Who the heck are these boy scouts and why do we have streets with their names?" Well, first I think you should mind your manners; second (and as an answer to your question) they were our delegates to the 11th World Jamboree in Marathon, Greece. There were 24 of them - Filipino boy scouts and scout officials. They, unfortunately, died in a plane crash in Bombay, India en route to the jamboree on July 23, 1963. In their memory, the City Council of Quezon City renamed the streets in the Kamuning and Roxas Districts after them on April 24, 1964 . Twenty five years after the tragedy, former President (then Chief Scout) Corazon C. Aquino declared July 28 of every year as Scout Memorial Day honoring not only the ill-fated Jamboree heroes but all the other Scouts and Scouters who died on the line of duty.

With just a week left, the monument workers have serious work to finish. I am posting this photo both as a tribute to the scouts but also as a little reminder that the construction people need to hurry up.
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The boy scouts who died in the plane crash: from the Manila BS Council: Ramon V. Albano, Henry Chuatoco, Jose Antonio Delgado, Pedro Gandia, Wilfredo Santiago and Ascario Tuason, Jr. From the Quezon City BS Council: Roberto Castro, Romeo R. Rallos and Rogelio Ybardolaza. Felix Fuentebella, Jr., represented both the Manila and Goa, Camarines Sur BS Councils. The rest of the scouts: Victor de Guia, Jr. (Baguio City), Antonio Limbaga (Zamboanga City), Roberto Lozano (Dagupan City), Paulo Madriñan (Pasay City), Jose Fermin Magbanua (Negros Oriental), Filamor Reyes and Antonio Torillo (Cavite) and Benecio Tobias (Tarlac). Visit their website for more information.

La Mesa EcoPark

2008-07-20T12:50:00.006+08:00

Maybe you're too exhausted from work and utterly convinced that you need a breather but you don't really have the patience to navigate the EDSA highways nor the budget to spend on gas for a quick trip to the nearest town out of Manila. Well, worry not. Try heading to the La Mesa Eco Park where you can be one with nature without having to put a hole in your pocket.

So, how does one go there?
For those taking public transportation, you can take a bus/FX/jeepney bound for Fairview and get off at the East Fairview Subdivision. At its gate are green colored tricycles that can take you to the park for 25 pesos. If you plan on bringing your own vehicle, take Commonwealth Avenue towards Fairview. Turn right at East Fairview Subdivision and from there you'll find signs leading you to the park. Park fee is 50 pesos but Quezon City residents get a 10 peso discount so if you're from here, better bring your ID. All revenues generated by the La Mesa Ecopark are used for the preservation and protection of La Mesa Watershed. For more information, visit their park website. Click here for a short video clip.

On the road

2008-07-19T11:05:00.001+08:00

Having to waste your time inside a taxi cab because of traffic is already bad in itself but finding yourself sharing that ride with a highly opinionated driver is even worse. He has so much to say on how to solve the nation's problem, Madame President should really get him as an adviser.

Anyway, this photo was taken while inside the cab. I was secretly hoping that waving my camera would make him shut up. I guess I should wish harder.

School Spirit

2008-07-15T00:30:00.000+08:00

The 71st UAAP games have begun. All eyes will be at the men's basketball teams especially with the so-called rivalries amongst them. Fighting in the name of school honor and pride.

I guess Miming up there is still a little undecided whether to cheer for the Blue Eagles or root for the Green Archers?

Click photo to better view his fascinating eyes.

Kilometer Zero

2008-07-14T00:01:00.000+08:00

Situated at the west of the Rizal monument, this flagpole (also known as kilometer zero) is the point of reference from north and south of the country and where all road distances are measured from.

What's your story?

2008-07-13T09:53:00.005+08:00

Magaling magkwento ang mga Pinoy.
Manuod ng mga kakaibang istorya ng pangkarinawang buhay
na pupukaw sa isip at damdamin.
Ano'ng kwento mo?

On its fourth year, Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival will be showcasing ten full-length and ten short films. Roxyfoxy and Parisianinpinas went with me yesterday to CCP to catch 100 by writer and director Chris Martinez. It is a story of a "stern, uptight and exacting woman with a terminal illness who tries to accomplish a list of 100 things to do before she dies." Sure, the story is nothing original but what I really liked was that it was told in a very light manner. You don't leave the movie house with a heavy heart but with a new outlook towards life.

At the ground floor was a little exhibit. And in there, one thing immediately caught my attention. In this day and age of flat/LCD/plasma TV screens I find that bulky red box strangely comforting. Childhood reminder of afternoon entertainment.

The sun is back...

2008-06-23T17:09:00.005+08:00

...and so are the mall goers. I guess film wins over Frank today.

Fête de la musique 2008 - Pinoy style

2008-06-22T09:20:00.006+08:00

While the rest of the Fête de la musique community is celebrating music with the glorious sun (summer solstice), we here are trying our very best to distinguish the drums from the thunder and the stage lights from the lightning. It is difficult to take pictures and videos of the performers while making sure that your precious camera stays dry.

This year's Fete was held at SM Mall of Asia. This fountain was close to one of the stages by the bay. See how they all move to one direction? Thanks to the strong winds. Typhoon Frank is bad.

Make music

2008-06-21T20:01:00.000+08:00

Its a lazy weather. The rain is intermittent and traffic is a pain. I am seriously weighing my options on whether to go to the Fête de la Musique or not. I have been going to this wonderful sonic soiree for the past 5 years and somehow the idea of missing it this year is not that appealing to me. Oh well. In the meantime, here is a photo of a fellow Fete fan. Photo was taken June 23rd of last year.

Stop.

2008-06-20T12:30:00.000+08:00

Mid-day. (A little over ) midmonth. Midyear.
Take stock.

Clash

2008-06-19T16:35:00.003+08:00

The clouds seem to disagree today. Maybe a little uncertain as who's on duty now. Visual entertainment with my glass door as my TV screen.

For whom the bell tolls

2008-06-18T00:01:00.003+08:00

Today marks the 100th year of the University of the Philippines. As such, allow me to honor my alma mater (please don't ask me for my student number) by posting a photo of one of its beautiful landmarks - the UP Carillon.

I never really got the chance to hear it play like it used to, but they said that these bells were played in the morning to signal the start of the academic day as well as in the late afternoon to end it. They, unfortunately, stopped ringing on the 80's due to lack of funds for its maintenance. Good thing that a lot of people were charitable enough to help in bringing back the legacy of the UP Carillon. Thanks to them and to Josef Haaxen, a Belgian national and Dean of Carillon Music at the Jef Denyn Royal Carillon School, we can now hear the bells play again.

Fusion Cuisine

2008-06-17T09:06:00.007+08:00

One day my friend, perhaps due to utter frustration on the "lack of proper cheese in this country", complained that he misses his Camembert and Roquefort (and Gruyere ad infinitum) badly. Hoping to change his somber mood, I dragged him to the local deli. The mere sight of chedarella sent chills to his spine. "Que horror! What a crime! Such inhumanity!" Hmm. Okay so maybe I was a little ignorant on how serious they are when it comes to their dairy produce.

Then came a eureka moment - Kesong puti! Now why did I not think of that before?

And so after a quick trip to the neighborhood bakery to get his baguette (but of course!) to pair up with the cheese, he finally found himself grinning from ear to ear. "But its like bûche de chèvre! Delightful!"

They say that you can take a French from France but not France from a French.

Zoom in

2008-06-16T00:33:00.002+08:00

Concave ceiling found in Cubao! (I bet you know where this is. Hah.)

Only if you say "please"

2008-06-15T00:01:00.001+08:00

Found at one of the shop windows of Cubao Expo.

To the batcave!

2008-06-14T16:39:00.005+08:00

Found at the Food Express of Gateway Mall. I guess its their way of saying that they want not only for their customers to be nourished but their cellphones energized as well. Power up!

Green is good (sometimes)

2008-06-03T08:39:00.002+08:00

The first time that Parisianinpinas saw them being sold on the sidewalk was definitely a Kodak moment. He can't believe his eyes. Then came the series of unending questions: "But you're suppose to eat only the yellow ones, right?", "What's the salt for?", "What is alamang made of and why does it smell funky?". Oh well. Despite the interrogation, he sure did enjoy his unripe mangoes.

For your eyes only

2008-06-02T11:27:00.000+08:00

Taken at the window of Sarabia Optical Clinic, unofficially known as Nela Sarabia's Indie Candy Store, so-called because its serves as a launching pad of sort to various indie acts whether it be of the audio or visual kind. The shop is located at the UP Diliman Shopping Center.

Quit Coal

2008-06-01T23:38:00.002+08:00

Last week, I got an email invite from Greenpeace for their Open Boat Day. The Rainbow Warrior will be in the country and her captain, Mike Fincken, was gracious enough to give the attendees a special tour of the ship. Lots of people were able to make the event. Even little children were there to support the group's fight for clean and renewable energy. More photos here.

Meet Zorro

2008-05-31T11:18:00.000+08:00

I often see him when I do my daily runs at the academic oval. As far as I know, he's a resident of Krus na Ligas and for the unitiated, that is a looooong way from Timog Avenue where I took photo. He usually hangs out with outdoor buffs and are often found engrossly reading a newspaper. Nobody really knows his real name or how old he is. But one thing's for sure, he certainly makes one heck of a fashion statement.

Smokin'

2008-05-30T16:33:00.007+08:00

This year's World No Tobacco Day theme is Tobacco Free Youth.

Indeed, the tobacco industries catch our children at an early age. They see the ads on TV and in movie houses, from the huge billboards at EDSA, when they go online, etc. The fact that all of these are "nurtured" by their families as well to get into the habit of puffing is disconcerting - dad asks his kid to buy some sticks from the sari-sari store, mom smokes in the house, etc.

If you love your children, help break the habit. Break the tobacco marketing net.

Plugging the Pinoy flag

2008-05-29T03:34:00.001+08:00

Yesterday was Philippine flag day, so if you're still clueless as to why everywhere you turn you see it displayed, well THAT is why.

Join in flaunting Pinoy pride - wave the flag, display it in the office and homes. Do it because you love your country. Do it because you are a Filipino. (And no, making a Guinness record is not a valid reason.)

Who wants free texting?

2008-05-28T18:21:00.001+08:00

Apart from, maybe, visiting the shopping malls more frequently than we should be, sending SMS messages (or texting, as we Pinoys casually calls it) has become an integral part of our life. We text everywhere and anywhere sometimes forgetting that we're supposed to be hearing mass or listening to our boring professors or crossing the street (ack!)

But as to why someone would have four SIM cards is beyond me. Never mind the fact that he has only one phone unit and that it takes so much time switching from one SIM to another. Ignore, too, the ire of his friends when they fail to get in touch with him on his phone number 1 as he was using phone number 2 that time. All these do not deter the fun-loving Pinoy. And why would he be? Texting here is cheap - at least according to ParisianinPinas.

Though I'm not avid texter, I have to admit that my attention was grabbed by this proposal for free text messages. Hm. Its not exactly a bad idea.

At any rate, I'll let the bigwigs decide that non-issue. In the meantime, here are some messages that I was able to save in my 5 year old phone- all forwarded by either my friends and/or my sister. Enjoy!

It's better late than pregnant.
If others can do it, why help?
An apple a day is NOT an apple at night.

Enlightenment

2008-05-27T14:41:00.006+08:00

Eating healthy may be the in thing now and for some that means going vegetarian. And as one figures his way out of the pseudo-labyrinth that is the non-meat eating world, one will soon find out that there’s not much of a go-to place when it comes to dining. Well, worry no more as Green’s Restaurant and Café, located at the corner of Scout Tuazon and Sct. Castor, provides gastronomical wonders that will satisfy even the most jaded carnivore. Try their sisig, kebabs, various pastas and (eggless!) desserts. The ambience is cozy and the service very good.

Oh, and there’s free wi-fi. Green's is so good you’d feel like you’re in nirvana.
For contact information and more photos click here.

Time out

2008-05-26T10:49:00.008+08:00

With their duties starting as early as 3AM, its not a wonder these kamineros (street cleaners) were lured to take some rest under the waiting shed. Or maybe because its pink - to match their shirt. That's sleeping in style!

Sunday Market

2008-05-25T14:38:00.008+08:00

Most countries have their own version of their local market - colorful, vibrant, very much alive. Just like those places, the Philippines have several that would make any intrepid shopper go ga-ga. What sets this one apart, though, is its location -right smack in the premise of a hospital, the Lung Center of the Philippines. And no, they don't sell lungs or any parts of the respiratory system here, so you can go ahead and pocket your joke right there.

For half the mall price, one can get fresh produce from various regions of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. And get this, they have a row of tables selling everything and anything for 10 pesos and less. What a bargain indeed!

Below is a photo of a Pinoy breakfast staple - longganisa (Philippine chorizo) from Lucban, Quezon.

If you want to have a unique shopping experience, I strongly suggest that you allot one Sunday for the Lung Center Market. See you there

More photos here.

Pilipinas kong Mahal

2008-05-24T13:22:00.006+08:00

With a little over two weeks left before the 110th Philippine independence, these posters of the Philippine flag have been placed almost all over the metro -from the swanky hotels to the unassuming government offices, from the train stations to the overly populated bridges. I guess its the government's way of reminding the commuters that despite the seemingly unending rallies and the perverse corruption in the government (among other things), there are still good things that we can identify ourselves with as a nation and as Filipinos.

Mushroom burger

2008-05-23T14:57:00.004+08:00

Far more healthy and far more scrumptious than the other M-burger. And, no, they don't have mascots to scare your kids off. With branches at Tagaytay City and West Ave., Quezon City, you are sure to have a chance of tasting that earthy goodness. If you are too lazy to move your ass, worry not as they also deliver. Contact them here.

Not a tuk-tuk

2008-05-22T12:50:00.002+08:00

Its our very own three-wheeled limo.

The weigh in

2008-05-21T16:16:00.001+08:00

Someone's trash is somebody else's wealth.

Taho

2008-05-20T14:42:00.001+08:00

In the neighborhood where I grew up, we kids all rush to meet our ultimate morning hero - the taho vendor. We're reduced to adoring fans waiting to be acknowledged and be given our own little cup of white, warm soft goodness mixed with that golden syrup arnibal and lots of firm sago. Yum, yum.

He said, she said

2008-05-19T12:14:00.001+08:00

Ah. What better way to kill time in your car while stuck in traffic than to read poetry.
Very intellectual!

Now Showing

2008-05-18T10:05:00.000+08:00

If you haven't seen any trailer on it, fret not. At least the students of St. Luke's College of Nursing have a better excuse in going to the mall.

School is cool!

Daily produce

2008-05-17T21:31:00.000+08:00

"When we stop buying products from a store, they die a natural death.
I surmise that the same is true with all the malevolent personalities amidst us. But our inaction is one way of patronizing them.
Let's stop buying their lies and corruption and make them accountable for their actions (or inactions), too."
-written at the main door of the cafe

The Conspiracy Garden Cafe does not only pride itself with excellent music and exquisite cuisine. I personally like the fact that they're always socially involved. As we all should be.

Ahm-beRRR-geRR

2008-05-16T18:19:00.000+08:00

That is Parisian in Pinas. He had his international driver's license converted to non-pro today at LTO. Imagine our surprise and amusement when we both got stamped with this unique "artwork". I don't think there's any other office in the world that equates burger for entry. Others just ask for your ID.

Blowin'

2008-05-16T06:00:00.000+08:00

The newspaper clip says that he was playing the world's smallest flute. Am not so sure about that but whatI am certain of is that he played VERY well. He played so good that he had everybody stop their shopping and just stare in deep admiration. Oldies but goodies indeed. Impressive!

Taking it to the streets

2008-05-13T22:09:00.000+08:00

This is a pretty common sight here in the country. It happens almost every week. For almost any reason you can think of. Lead by Piston, this one was supposed to be a transport strike to oppose the obscene increase in the price of gas.

Savings

2008-05-12T21:37:00.000+08:00

Timeshare - share your time.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-12T00:23:00.000+08:00

It's not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it.
-from the television show The Golden Girls

They say that motherhood is an all-day, everyday job that is all about giving, giving, giving. Whew! Here's hoping that all moms get their well-deserved hugs (and kisses) not only today but each and every single day of their lives.

Fender Bender

2008-05-10T22:38:00.000+08:00

Well, let's all hope that the vehicle driver is on his way to the garage.

(By the way, the author deliberately covered the plate number to protect the identity of the owner.)

Summer fun

2008-05-09T22:15:00.001+08:00

Isn't it amazing how an old transparent, plastic bag tied to a used PET bottle can bring so much joy to a little boy. The innocence of youth is definitely enviable.

Kyusi

2008-05-09T00:44:00.001+08:00

The Quezon Memorial Circle is to Quezon City as what the Rizal Park is to Manila.

Statesman and Patriot,
Lover of Freedom,
Advocate of Social Justice,
Beloved of His People

-written on the epitaph of the tomb of former Philippine Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon (1877-1944).

This was taken a few months back using my old point and shoot camera. I thought it will be nice to feature one of the more prominent landmarks in the city.