tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16669557267149354452024-02-07T20:35:34.344+03:00Ilonggo sa DesyertoIlonggo sa Desyerto (Ilonggo in the Desert) – A blog containing insights, opinion and analysis by the author on life, work, religion and events he personally experienced.braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.comBlogger505125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-90735272364352872642013-08-04T12:52:00.007+03:002013-08-04T12:52:52.673+03:00Funny Question No. 12. What was the worst punishment you received at school?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I remember Tommy Tigulo, our English
Teacher when I was in my first year of high school. He was kind of abusive
because he’ll just throw the blackboard eraser your head if in case he suspects
you of being rowdy in class. I was not
the rebel type then so it was very humiliating for me. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-84578460917383372652013-08-04T12:52:00.003+03:002013-08-04T12:52:26.831+03:00Funny Question No. 11. What, if anything, have you ever re-gifted?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">No. I have few friends and I don’t
really encourage gift giving. It’ll just
ruin their respective budgets. OFWs have
responsibilities back home and asking gifts are just an imposition. There are far more important things in this
world. So, I hardly receive gifts hence,
I can’t re-gift.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-38553256722395897282013-08-04T12:52:00.000+03:002013-08-04T12:52:03.141+03:00Funny Question No. 10. What is your favorite cereal?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">None. I’m a full blooded Asian. I can
live without cereals but can’t without rice.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-79738090662715043092013-08-04T12:51:00.005+03:002013-08-04T12:51:37.235+03:00Funny Question No. 9. What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I try to read novels during weekends
but I don’t consider it as geeky or nerdy.
It’s only geeky or nerdy if the subject matter is too academic.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-60996359230532861132013-08-04T12:51:00.002+03:002013-08-04T12:51:11.610+03:00Funny Question No. 8. What is the oldest thing in your refrigerator?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Believe it or not, it’s not food but
Suppositories. LOL. If I’m stressed out,
I’ll be constipated so I needed it until I discovered the ‘Kancura Tea’ through
Andrew.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-35576221798434268912013-08-04T09:59:00.005+03:002013-08-04T09:59:35.946+03:00Funny Question No. 7. Can you play any instruments?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can’t play. I never had the opportunity and don’t have
the patience to learn. You are only
drawn to instruments if you’re musically inclined. I was never a good singer and I never had any
interest in playing instruments. If I can
turn back the time it would have been better if I learned to play an
instrument.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-67854865343651534442013-08-04T09:59:00.002+03:002013-08-04T09:59:11.781+03:00Funny Question No. 6. How old is the oldest pair of shoes in your closet?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wear shoes until they’re worn out
and I don’t keep them, I throw them away.
The oldest shoes I have in my closet are about 2 years old. They’re mostly Italian made and I wore them
in the office. The shoes I wear for
walking don’t last that much. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-79521494895698626842013-08-04T09:58:00.002+03:002013-08-04T09:58:44.977+03:00Funny Question No. 5. What was your favorite toy as a kid?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I could not really remember what my
favourite toy was while I was growing up.
I grew up in a farming community and we play with what nature gave
us. Our marbles are the seeds of the
rubber tree while our toy guns are made of banana trunk. I did remember though that Dad made a wooden
truck for me. We were always horse
playing with the neighbourhood kids most of the time and I really did not miss
growing up without expensive toys.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-17561862276174190062013-08-01T15:35:00.002+03:002013-08-01T15:35:38.921+03:00Funny Question No. 4. Choose a movie title for the story of your life.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If there’s a very appropriate movie
title for the story of my life, it would be, Linktik lang ang Walang
Ganti. I could hardly remember the
storyline of that movie but the hero was able to get back to those who have
done him wrong. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life is a battlefield. There was one battle that I thought that I was
going to lose. However, with prayers and
good people around, I survived. I was
not unscathed though, scars are everywhere and it took a while for me to fully
recover. The hell I went through made me
who I am today, sure of myself more and unafraid. What is the worst thing that could happen to a
person than facing death himself? </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-75968213328214624392013-08-01T15:07:00.002+03:002013-08-01T15:07:40.424+03:00Funny Question No. 3. What was your favorite TV show when growing up?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was not really that fond of TV
when I was growing up but I remember that we owned a big black and white
TV. I was more drawn into playing with
the neighbourhood kids than watching TV.
I can barely remember the shows being shown and the actors.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-8896334688431878992013-07-31T12:29:00.002+03:002013-07-31T12:29:45.532+03:00Funny Question No. 2. Which storybook/cartoon character turns you on the most?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don’t have a particular cartoon
character that turns me on but I’m a fan of the Japanese Hentai. For me, hentai is better than the hard core
blue flicks. I do love Naruto but it’s
just plain admiration and I was never turned on by watching him. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-18429755308123819932013-07-31T11:58:00.001+03:002013-07-31T12:28:18.729+03:00Funny Question No. 1. At which store would you like to max-out your credit card?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>This question is one of the 25 Funny
Questions which was sent to me by a head hunter. I never expected them to send funny questions
since it’s considered that recruiting is a serious business. But who cares so here’s my two cents of that
question.</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I’ve always been a
conservative. I don’t splurge and I don’t
overspend. I live in the mantra that you
only spend what you earn. For me,
overspending is just like wasting all the graces that God has bestowed on you. I consider credit cards as a buffer fund, a
tool that will help me if things are going to be difficult. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, If I’m not who I am I’ll
probably be spending on household furniture at the Ikea. Thrifty as I am, I need to change everything
in my current apartment from my descent single bed to a double bed, new
wardrobe, new credenza and new appliances.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-44141125594931671822013-06-15T16:45:00.001+03:002013-06-15T16:45:31.862+03:00Moving on…<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I don’t want
to regret all the decision that I made. I’ve
always believe that good or bad, those decisions were made because it’s what the
universe says. The reason why I went
with the flow when D. says we’re moving to a shared apartment was that I felt
that at that time, it was the right time to move. I left the studio flat near Saudi Fisheries
in Subeka because I got sick there. Part
of me believed that it had something to do with the flat where I was
staying. That’s the reason why till
today, I never regretted moving out from that flat.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I stayed
with D. for almost two years in the Prince Abdullah apartment that we
shared. Although I had to deal with Ds
cats, I never complained about it. Since
I walk daily to the office, it’s also nearer, like it’ll take me 40 – 45 minutes
from the apartment to our Prince Abdullah flat.
We had an alright set up there and so far so good. I would love for it to remain that way but
then, Ds decided to bring his Saudi friend to our shared apartment and that
changed everything.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For several
days during the month of April, I’ve noticed and was alarmed by the constant
visitations. In the Kingdom of the Sands,
anything could happen. I was tensed every
time my flat mate had visitation that eventually I decided to move out. I am not a kill joy or anything but I had to
think of my own safety. In the Kingdom
of the Sands, these kinds of stuff are not tolerated and if you’re lucky, you’ll
spend your glory days in the Saudi jail.
I wouldn’t have minded if his visitors are kabayans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I had
the chance to talk to my manager, he says that I should move out right
away. He says that I already have a capability
to pay for a decent apartment. He says
that if something happens to me there, he could not defend me. I will also forfeit my ‘End of Service
Benefits’ if in case, our house is raided.
I wouldn’t have minded if I were doing naughty things too but I am not
like that. I can still be rational that I
would never do such things. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am free
now, free from the danger that D has subjected me. I don’t want to condemn him
but I was uneasy with what he did. My
anger has subsided now but it’ll take some time before I can speak to him
again. It was not easy being tensed all
time so I suffered in silence.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have a
good feeling with my new flat. I want to
keep the energy positive. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-20601228759719740632013-05-04T13:47:00.001+03:002013-05-04T13:47:42.947+03:00Krung Krung Moments<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Last Tuesday, 16 April
2013, at 8:05 PM I wrote this email to my boss:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Dear Boss,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">For the past few months
I haven't been feeling so well. I think I'm stressed and my body can feel
it. I don't think I can anymore handle the demands of my current work.
I'm afraid that if I continue to do this I'm going to have a relapse of
the disease that I had 2 years ago. I'm not young anymore and I can't
cope up with multitasking. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">If you will allow it, I
would like to look for a position within the Group. I hope you would
understand.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Ilonggo sa Desyerto<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">I did report to work the
following day since I applied for a leave to process some personal documents
with the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh. I
took an early morning train to Riyadh the following day. At 9:01 A.M. my boss called saying that he doesn’t
want to lose me and that he’ll talk to me on Saturday. I reported to work on Saturday but he never
talked to me. On Sunday, he left for
Lebanon without talking to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">It’s not that I’m
exaggerating what I’m currently feeling.
I recognized that I’m very stressed due to workload. There was a point where I really enjoyed what
I’m doing but recently, what I’m doing becomes a drag. I don’t enjoy it anymore. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Strangely, all the
reservations and stress that I had were all gone when the boss left for
Lebanon. It could be that he’s causing
this stress. That’s why I don’t look
forward of his return. There’s a big
chance that I’ll be stressed once again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-58636493056655976232013-03-17T13:17:00.001+03:002013-03-17T13:17:06.990+03:00Daddy’s legacy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I
learned that my mother was planning to sell Daddy’s land in San Fernando, I was
furious. My father was a farmer and for
a farmer, selling his own land is the worst thing that could ever happen to a
farmer. I based my decision on what
would Dad feel if we sell his land and so I really refused the proposal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My mother
has actually sent the deed of sale to my sister Bam in Manila so she and I
could sign the papers. I initially told
my sister not to sign the document so they could not sell the land. The parcel of land was priced higher since
the Province relocated the town proper adjacent to where my father’s land is
situated. The property developer is
willing to pay Php.2 M for Dad’s land.
It would have been easy to sign and let go if my mother would buy
another land to compensate for the one that they intend to sell. However, she has told my other siblings that
as a wife, she is entitled to half of the amount which is Php. 1 M. She also said that she is also entitled to
the 1/6 of the remaining Php. 1 M. That
leaves us with Php. 167K each. My mother
will walk away with Php. 1,167,000 with the sale of Daddy’s land while we will
get to receive Php. 167K each. Believe
me, it was not all about money. I’m
earning good money right now and I just felt that selling Daddy’s land will put
his legacy into waste.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What can we buy
with Php. 167K? Nothing. That’s almost the same amount I splurged
during my annual vacation. What I’m
saying is that the money will be put to nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our eldest
brother Toto however thinks that nobody could stop our mother. She’ll insist on selling the land and the
story would not end there. Tam-an na
kasabad so he gave up. Let the old woman
have her way. I am not really interested
with the money but in the end, I did agree with my eldest brother to have the
old woman have her way. I asked my
sister Bam to sign the deed of sale and also to sign on my behalf. I told her to forge my signature if she has
to. If she sends the document here, it’ll
cost her money. So, she did everything
and even had the document notarized. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I still
thought about how Dad would feel but there’s no use really. If selling of that land would make my mother
happy, I’ll let her. Her offspring
should not stop her. At least I now have
an excuse not to send money to her. With
that money that she can get from the sale of Dad’s property, I think she’ll be
able to provide for herself. I just hope
though that she’ll make good use of the money.
It’s about time that I save for my future. I’ve started saving but what’s wrong with
saving more, right? I’ve been thinking
recently of purchasing a property in Iloilo City where I’ll spend my retirement
days. Away from distractions, away from
those who are masabad.</span></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-7853462552499002512013-03-17T09:37:00.000+03:002013-03-17T09:37:20.653+03:00Pope Francis I<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjfiGR84qFzaprADb3vntZ-ytgC0XEKnhZ9TlO-B5ymUt_vxp4-3uUSnxBMvRw_Z2r62ZvAgZQdBgx4chvyeVZP0fj0KgCmd5QDyn4UXENf1BTfwtQtzinetQKxvgbNB5Cd52cAs4b80/s1600/Pope-Francis-I-360x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjfiGR84qFzaprADb3vntZ-ytgC0XEKnhZ9TlO-B5ymUt_vxp4-3uUSnxBMvRw_Z2r62ZvAgZQdBgx4chvyeVZP0fj0KgCmd5QDyn4UXENf1BTfwtQtzinetQKxvgbNB5Cd52cAs4b80/s320/Pope-Francis-I-360x225.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pope Francis I</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I label myself
as a returning Catholic. There was a
point in my life that I just don’t want anything to do with the faith where I was
brought up. However, I’ve realized that you
can’t get away with who you are and you just have to accept that, I guess. My near death experience from the past
changed everything including my perspective on faith and life. I however believe that there’s only one God,
and to some, that’s a cafeteria Catholicism where you just choose whatever you
like on your faith.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The 2013
conclave to elect a new Pope was not as emotional as it was during the 2005
conclave. I think it’s partly because
the Pope Emeritus did not die, he just retired.
I was so looking forward to see the ceremony, the smoke on the chimney
and all. I was not disappointed because
despite how wired our current world is, the Vatican did not fail us in staging
the biggest pageantry of the year, the proclamation of its new pope.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I wasn’t
disappointed when Jorge Cardinal Bergoglio was selected by the College of
Cardinals. He’s the first Jesuits and
the first Pope from the Americas. It
would have been nice if they selected an African or an Asian Pope but I was
happy nevertheless that he didn’t come from the powerful Roman Curia (or
Italian). The new pope is a humble man
who has compassion to serve his people. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I pray to
God that He will help Pope Francis in dispensing his duties to his religious
flock.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-91741882814271272302013-02-27T10:51:00.002+03:002013-02-27T10:51:24.499+03:00Sad :(<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In this posting I will try to avoid the use of the
pronoun. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let’s just call this person Orange
as reference. I was just being myself when I choose to reject the apparent
developing relationship with Orange. I
was thinking of the possible heartaches I will be dealing if Orange leaves the
Kingdom of the Sands in five months’ time.
I kept my distance and avoided intimacy.
Orange never suspected anything strange for the past weeks.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was surprised last Sunday morning when Orange told me that
they (I’m avoiding using pronoun again) along those who complained to the Saudi
Labor Office are being sent home. Orange
asked to see me for the last time that evening.
I was busy assisting the training the whole day but rushed home to see Orange. We talked a lot and I advised Orange (again
avoiding the pronoun) that should they reach Manila, they should just go back
to their respective hometowns. What
they were planning was to log a complaint to the POEA and the DOLE against the
agent that sent them for contract violation.
I told Orange that filing a case and waiting for the case resolution would
just be a waste of time and money. The
best thing that they could do is to, as I’ve suggested, go home, take the
needed rest and reapply for another job elsewhere in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After we ate our dinner, I let Orange go. When Orange left, I just couldn’t express how
I felt. Sadness filled my heart but on
the other hand, happy because Orange can finally leave hell. The following day was not better either. Today’s day three and I’m still sad. I am beginning to think that I really love Orange. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I told D and Nilo about it and they just said arte lang iyan
LOL.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-30075361012375221422013-02-11T10:16:00.001+03:002013-02-11T10:17:31.293+03:00Forcing yourself on people<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“You don’t force yourself on people. If you do, you have a void in your life that
you want to fill… and that’s sad.” <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don’t force myself on people. I've already come to a point where I’m tired
of pleasing others. I've been through
hell and back and if today is the last day of my existence, I will not spend it
pleasing others who do not care about me.
Don’t get me wrong though. I’m
not mean and I don’t want to be mean to people who did not do anything to
me. If I can get rid and cut ties with
some of my family members, it’ll be easier to cut ties with people whom I just
met here in the Kingdom of the Sands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don’t force myself on people because I don’t owe my
existence to them. It was thanks to God,
and my parents that I was born in this world.
The lifestyle, monies, savings and all the goods that come to me are
because of the company that I’m working for.
If I’m doing well with my career, they’re all thanks to my bosses and my
hard work. I’ve always prayed to God
that I’ll be generous and I think, in my own way, I am. And by the way, whatever I’m enjoying today
could also be taken away, I just don’t know when, but since I’m in Saudi
Arabia, that’s the main reason why I’m always preparing for the worst.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I just have one advice to whoever you are, you can’t bring
me down. I’ve seen worst, I’ve been
through hell and what you are doing and what you can do is nothing compared to
what I’ve been through. I’m a survivor. Your words and actions can’t hurt me. I’m
made of stone. If you have pride, show
it and don’t be selective. <b><i>Just so you
remember: You often forget your pride once it is convenient to you</i></b>.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-4927366647020103292013-01-16T21:30:00.000+03:002013-01-16T21:30:05.451+03:00The man in the mirror<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Girl Abunda,
host of ABiaS CBN show, would often ask his guests the corniest question in the
world, that is ‘What do you see when you look at the mirror?’ I admit, I don’t watch ABiaS CBNs shows as a
choice but in a sense, we really could not ignore the intensity of that
question.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I called BB (for
Black Berry because he’s dark skinned) earlier and I told him the feedback from
the people he works with. There are
people who do not really like the way he interacts with them. To them he’s arrogant. He was very defensive when I told him that he
sent me several emails explaining his side after we talked. He also said that he does not care how other
people’s impression in him and that they’re just envious of him. He even said that if they’re really
interested in his current position, they can have it, he does not care.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I told him
that I don’t mean for him to be offended when I called him. I just want him to realize that as a person,
we really do not know how people see us.
In my case, I don’t know that I could be very arrogant, rude and sarcastic
at times. I don’t know that but that is
how people view me. That’s why I told BB
to reflect and the best question he could ask himself is of course, ‘What will
he tell to that man in the mirror?’</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I told him
that I’m a survivor. I’ve learned it
early on since growing up without my parents around is very difficult. If I wasn’t tough, I wouldn’t survive. In a way, being tough taught me how to be
independent and to fend for myself. That
explains why I really do not want people to trample upon me and in any argument
or fighting; I always win whether I’m right or wrong. There was a point in my life that I was also
like BB, very defensive and would not admit mistakes. It would take a lot of time and maturity
before we became mature. In my case, the
near death experience made me realized that I’m no superhuman. If I’m unwell, I’m nothing and it was a life
changing experience for me. It made me stronger
but softer at the same time. I can now
handle the meanest criticism without being bothered about it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
BBs a friend
and I want him to get along with the people he’s working with. To stay and grow in a company, you have to
learn how to get along with people. I
know that he has a future in his current role and if he’s matured enough, he’ll
be able to achieve whatever he aims to achieve.
Kaya nga lang, I know that it’ll take a lot of counseling for him to
grow up. If he’ll just open his mind and
learn to listen to my advice, he’s on his way to the ladder of success.</div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-41671856827259244062013-01-02T10:44:00.001+03:002013-01-02T10:44:24.772+03:00Is this a good way start the year?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
There were
numerous rumors regarding our insurance coverage for 2013 but there were just
murmurs until everyone received the policy.
It was sent yesterday morning and yes, it was a bomb and it
blasted. Words were spread like
wildfire, calls were made and exchanges of opinions took placed. Oming of Strategy thought of drafting a
petition which were sent all over the company.
Everyone signed except for those who wanted to protect their
relationship with their direct superior who approved the insurance proposal for
2013.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In the new
insurance coverage, employees have to subsidize 20%. Gone are the days when we enjoyed full
coverage. This is the first time that
our company made this decision and people were all surprised. The sad thing is, not all employees in our
company are well paid and can afford in subsidizing the insurance coverage. The new insurance scheme came out as ‘COLD’
and ‘UNFEELING’ on the part of those who made the decision. I know that cost were the main consideration
why they came up with that decision. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As an HR
Professional, I believe that HR should have been consulted before the scheme
was approved since their decision will affect the employees. Consultations should have been made
especially on the effects of their decision.
The decision to close down an insurance deal should never been delegated
to people who counts NUMBERS and MONEY because we’re dealing with people. People have feelings and emotions, NUMBERS
and MONEY have none. However, if that’s
the decision of the decision maker, I will bow to their decision.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As an
employee however, I think I have the right to know how they came up with the
decision. So, like the rest of the employees,
I signed the petition. Is this a good
way to start the year?<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-72437933816213059812012-12-29T10:25:00.001+03:002012-12-29T10:29:47.244+03:00Happy Holidays!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
We
celebrated Christmas this year with less fanfare. We just ate dinner at our favorite place and
then went home. It was also a good time
to rest since I wasn’t really feeling better due to flu. I tried taking a day off the following day (25
Dec.) but ended up bored at home. I
jokingly told Srini and Firas that I’m just giving them excuse so that I can
spend Christmas at home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I have
always been against the extravagant Christmas celebrations. That’s probably one of the reasons why I prefer
to spend Christmas here in the Kingdom of the Sands. Don’t get me wrong though. I’m no Uncle Scrooge! It’s just that I felt that Christmas should
be celebrated low key. The most
important thing is to always remember why we’re celebrating the season in the
first place.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
This New
Year will also be the same I guess. I
don’t mind though, as long as I’ll be celebrating it with my friends, the
people I care.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A friend
asked me what my New Year’s resolution is for 2013. I can’t stop myself from grinning
since It’s just so old fashioned to have New Year’s resolution. Most of us don’t have New Year’s resolution since
we’re not so serious about them.
Anyways, after thinking through it, this is my New Year’s resolution:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
1. I will
lose 20 Kilos. Regardless, I have to
return to my normal weight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
2. I will
eat healthy. I promise not to binged eat
anymore.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
3. I will
jog daily. I stopped jogging for 2 years
so look at what happened.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
4. I will
find my match. It has been years since I last fell in love.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
5. I will pass my SPHR / PHR certification exam.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
6. I will entertain job offers from other
companies. I will not restrict myself from my current company.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
7. I will still give my family tough love. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
8. Save Money.
I’m good at saving so I’ll save more.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</div>
braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-73728807464898068062012-12-23T13:52:00.000+03:002012-12-23T13:52:02.477+03:00Miss Universe 2012 Results: RIGGED<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp9SIL1H59kaBZss_CWAgrV0sZwzqanWXMwbVKvsdjclE83eR6WgdVd1_oW_ePEwqRwqjP1OAqQDz7RZfjO4c5egfhKpCTAchigvEQ_lD4ioTWTKzDpYbv95Xrrt66C70mOgdphBx8ge4/s1600/281758_458502237543706_933574244_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp9SIL1H59kaBZss_CWAgrV0sZwzqanWXMwbVKvsdjclE83eR6WgdVd1_oW_ePEwqRwqjP1OAqQDz7RZfjO4c5egfhKpCTAchigvEQ_lD4ioTWTKzDpYbv95Xrrt66C70mOgdphBx8ge4/s320/281758_458502237543706_933574244_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Janine Tugonon, 23, Philippines</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
It took me
awhile to blog on how I feel after being disappointed by the results of the
recently concluded Miss Universe 2012.
It would have been easier to accept defeat if Janine Tugonon, our
nations representative made a blunder during the interview competition. However, no matter how many times I watched
it on YouTube, her execution was just flawless.
She should have been crowned that night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My own
ranking of the winners would be: Philippines (Miss Universe), Australia (1<sup>st</sup>
Runner up), USA (2<sup>nd</sup> Runner up), Venezuela (3<sup>rd</sup> Runner
up) and Brazil (4<sup>th</sup> Runner up).
The results of the Miss Universe competition I’m afraid is final. Olivia Culpo, will go down the history as the
most underserving Miss Universe ever. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To Janine
Tugonon, you made us all proud. To us,
you are the 2012 Miss Universe. <o:p></o:p></div>
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braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-65569094174986486492012-12-16T12:35:00.001+03:002012-12-16T12:35:43.043+03:00Christmas Carolers in Al Khobar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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No matter how
good your intentions are, please remember that we’re in Saudi Arabia. There are rules here that we should
obey. If you don’t want to obey their
customs and traditions, better pack your bags, do the country a favor and
leave. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We were
waiting for our orders last Friday night at Gusto Restaurant in Al Khobar
(besides As Salama Hospital) when suddenly a group of Filipinos entered the restaurant
and started singing Christmas songs. One
of their companions, a lady started distributing an envelope asking for
donation, allegedly for the medical mission.
I was so shocked at first. It
took me awhile to regain my composure.
When I realized what was happening, I went to the cashier attendant and
told him that what the kabayans are doing are not good and even he will be in
trouble. I felt the need to go out of
the restaurant so I drag D and waited outside.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Outside, I saw
their look out, a bardagones (big, fat, tall man) and I shouted at him. I told him that what they’re doing is not
good. They’re endangering themselves and
also other innocent Filipinos. He was
explaining that theirs was a noble cause and that the proceeds of their
caroling go to medical mission. I told
him that we’re in Saudi Arabia and caroling is a big no-no. It’s against the law for goodness sake! The police will never listen to your reasons
no matter how noble it is.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m not
exaggerating that if they’re caught caroling, they could end up in jail. What if the Mutaw (Religious Police) were
following them? Everyone will be in
trouble including all the Kabayans who happens to be in the Restaurant when
they were singing Christmas carols. <o:p></o:p></div>
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D.
remembered that last year, the same people knocked at our door to do the
caroling. I think they’re doing it for
the sake of their pockets and not really for medical missions. It’s just so obvious that they just want money
from unsuspecting people. If we’re in
the Philippines, they can do all the caroling they want. But we’re in Saudi Arabia for goodness
sake! If they can’t live with it, they
better pack their bags and leave before the Mutawa could actually catch them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I just couldn’t
get these people! I called up the POLO –
Eastern Province and reported the incident. They said that the Ambassador has already
issued a guideline on that. POLO – Eastern Province has also received several
reports regarding carolers but says that they just couldn’t do anything about
it if people would not follow the guideline.
The worst thing that could happen to them is being jailed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-35254722911603323222012-12-12T13:36:00.000+03:002012-12-16T13:36:51.032+03:00Early Christmas Gifts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXwEJFD2haz4dDRnQOQt9pWn7IE_o4r_UKCwuC6-HbcGTuP8PVvt9utbQaNOBbVlsF1kbd3CBVNAkFki0uwLeezdU3b98D-1BDfGlO8KotO9FWUlCG5xahYBOWDj7e6hNeX_q26bVd3Q/s1600/706249_475731322468943_1633992780_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbXwEJFD2haz4dDRnQOQt9pWn7IE_o4r_UKCwuC6-HbcGTuP8PVvt9utbQaNOBbVlsF1kbd3CBVNAkFki0uwLeezdU3b98D-1BDfGlO8KotO9FWUlCG5xahYBOWDj7e6hNeX_q26bVd3Q/s320/706249_475731322468943_1633992780_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Last Monday,
10 December 2012, I was invited to OKI trade show in Movenpick Hotel with some
of my colleagues. I was told that there
will be presentation, gifts and dinner.
Since I don’t have evening classes on Mondays, I confirmed my
participation to the trade show. The
trade show started rather late (30 minutes behind schedule).<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was
pretty exciting presentation since it gave me idea on which machines to choose
and its advantage and disadvantage. I
also learned from there that the product is called Oki because it was named
after the founder Kibataro Oki. The
misconception is that we pronounced it OKI (Oh-Key-Ai) because we thought that
it’s an abbreviation of something. I’ve
also learned that Oki is pioneer in the LED technology.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The most
exciting part of the trade show was when they were drawing prices for their
raffle. They’ve given several machines and
I was so happy because number 8, the number that was given to me was
drawn. I won OKI C110 A4 Color Printer. I don’t know what I should do with it yet but
nevertheless, I’m happy and thankful with my winning.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ChyDWkhjuDozme3BQB6NMvIeGZYcQOUP9B9J0fYZc4Iun_m3FMKPx7w1iNx5pT0h4bcpmWR6hcXQyOww8poY0Q9sOKJtOlkBKHZa0E5xMeGpkQoMNPBEqNp_s4_n0vlpkbZijESBzes/s1600/548851_475976342444441_1521763482_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ChyDWkhjuDozme3BQB6NMvIeGZYcQOUP9B9J0fYZc4Iun_m3FMKPx7w1iNx5pT0h4bcpmWR6hcXQyOww8poY0Q9sOKJtOlkBKHZa0E5xMeGpkQoMNPBEqNp_s4_n0vlpkbZijESBzes/s320/548851_475976342444441_1521763482_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The
following day, Abdul Jalal of InterContinental Hotel invited me again, with
some of my colleagues to attend their ‘Bookers Club Party’. It’s a thanksgiving party given to their
clients. It was 11 December 2012 which
happens to be a Tuesday so I told him I couldn’t come. When I was about to
leave the office in the evening, Wency from Arab Open University (Morgan
International) called me and said that our class is cancelled. That means I have the opportunity to attend
the party at the InterContinental.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The party
was held at the rooftop of InterContinental Hotel. There was a sandstorm at that time so we were
uncomfortable at first. It was a
cocktail party and it was so amazing. They
served international cuisine, petit pour, sushi, Indian curry and BBQ. The highlight of the night was when my name
was called and I won dinner for 2 at the InterContinental Hotel Al Khobar.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you,
God for giving me all these blessings. I
planned to invite my boss for the dinner.
I owe it to him I think.<o:p></o:p></div>
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braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1666955726714935445.post-78630285185500459022012-11-03T13:46:00.002+03:002012-11-03T13:46:29.248+03:00Cayetano: Political Dynasty is not the problem <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Alan Peter Cayetano, so young yet so corrupt. Cayetano says that political dynasty is not
the problem in our country today but corruption. Of course, he’ll naturally defend
political dynasty since he himself is a product of political dynasty. What Cayetano did not see is that political
dynasty breed corruption. Why do you
think these families don’t want to get out of politics? Don’t tell me that they’re here because of
public service because people won’t buy it.
They’re in politics because that’s the easiest way to get money.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There’s a constitutional provision asking the Congress (House of
Representative and Senate) to enact law against political dynasty. However, since if that law will be enacted, the
first casualty would be our politicians so they ignored their duty to legislate
law on political dynasty. Since there’s
no law and implementing guideline, our courts and Comelec has no way of banning
the dynasties.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even if people call for the banning of political dynasties, politicians
will just ignore that call. They’ll come
up with other scandals that would help people forget their calls. I don’t think that banning of political
dynasties will be realized within Abnoy’s administration. Abnoy himself is a byproduct of political dynasties
and he’ll also protect those families who would toe his line. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The only way to get rid of political dynasties is to change the
constitution altogether. I also don’t
see that happening in Abnoy’s Administration.
So, I think, we’re doomed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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braggitohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13604207355025208084noreply@blogger.com0Khobar Saudi Arabia26.2833333 50.226.0555438 49.884143 26.5111228 50.515857000000004