I'm SICK

I'm still sick today and it worsen. I had my weekly massage yesterday and I called again today to have another session. I need it badly coz my back's aching like a bitch! My nose's leaking, hoarse voice due to cough and totally not in the mood of doing anything. I just wanna lay down and sleep. Where the hell is my freaking masseuse???

Happy New Year

New year, new life and a new beginning. We still don't know what's in store for us for 2012 but I know that GOD prepared everything for me.

I just wanna share some of my goals for this year and here are some of the things I wanna accomplish this year;

1. Earn more and save more.
2. Career growth
3. Buy a new laptop or gadget.
4. More travels (domestic and abroad)
5. Relationship (maybe?)
6. Make sure that I'll be home on Christmas and New Year

These are the things I have in mind now.

Lost and Found

I've been out for quite sometime and it's time for me to go back and be active again. For the past few months, my life, career and lovelife(?) have been the same. I want some change! Change to be BETTER.

2011 is not really a bad year for me despite of some disappointments and failures.

I would like to make some changes in my life and would love to start a few new beginnings as this year ends. I'm giving my career until the first quarter of next year and if nothing happens, then, it might be the right time for me to move out and find a greener and more secure pasture. Part of my goal is to save some money for my future. I've been working all my life but never saved even a single cent, which I know is bad.

GOD'S "PHONE" NUMBER

Hello God, I called tonight
To talk a little while
I need a friend who'll listen
To my anxiety and trials.

You see, I can't quite make it
Through a day just on my own...
I need your love to guide me,
So I'll never feel alone.

I want to ask you please to keep,
My family safe and sound.
Come and fill their lives with confidence
For whatever fate they're bound.

Give me faith, dear God, to face
Each hour throughout the day,
And not to worry over things
I can't change in any way.

I thank you God, for being home
And listening to my call,
For giving me such good advice
When I stumble and fall.. !!!!!!!

Your number, God, is the only one
That answers every time.
I never get a busy signal,
Never had to pay a dime.

So thank you, God, for listening
To my troubles and my sorrow.
Good night, God, I love You, too,
And I'll call again tomorrow!

P.S. Please bless all my friends and family too.

Government Agency Experience... BAD!!!

I went to DFA earlier today to finish my passport application. It just took me 25 minutes to finish everything. DFA's process has never been a problem to me. Everything went smoothly and I didn't expect it to be that fast for a government agency. KUDOS to DFA for such a very impressive improvement with their process.

After my business with DFA, I decided to head directly to the Bureau of Immigration to submit my final clearance from DOST. I know the address but I don't know how to get there, so I just follow my instinct (as always) in going there. I took a bus going to Lawton but I alighted in Quirino Ave coz I was thinking that it might be too far if I'll drop off at the Lawton station. I took another jeep in Mabini and eventually I arrived at the place safe and sound. Can't believe my eyes that this agency is so chaotic! There are so many foreigners and locals as well who wants to migrate. I went to the information center directly and asked for assistance on where to go and whom to talk to about my business. They pointed me to different rooms and people, all in all, everything is a mess... a very BIG mess!!! They're not as organize as DFA. The staff especially the man assigned at window 17 is so BASTOS!!!

I just hope that BI should at least make room for improvements when it comes to their process.

Another bad experience for me... this is Gilbert once again and you've been synchronized.

My "Sagad Ah!" Trip

I would say that the April 1-4 travel was the best travel I've had in my entire life. I enjoyed most of my stay in the Ifugao region together with my new found friends. It was the first time that I was able to join the Lakbayees group and t'was my first to visit the northern region (farther than Baguio I mean…) of the Philippines.

I was able to see the majestic sceneries of the famous Banaue Rice Terraces. The view is really breathtaking and jaw-dropping. It’s the living legacy of our ancestors that until now, the new generations were able to preserve. I’m just sad to see that some parts of the rice fields were being used as a residence of the locals now.

After a few hours of stay in Banaue, we then moved on to our next destination, Sagada. It took us at least 4 hours to reach the place. Sagada is known for its picturesque nature, grandiose mountains, unbelievable hanging coffins, underground caves, inviting falls and they also have their own rice terraces, which you will see up-close when you go to Bomod-ok falls. Sagada is worth to be called the Shangri-la of the Philippines. You can do so many things when you’re in Sagada; like a 4-hour hike to Mt. Ampacao, trekking in the rice fields going to the ice-cold Bomod-ok falls, spelunking at the Sumaguing underground cave, sunrise viewing at Kiltepan and visiting the hanging coffins at the Echo Valley. You should never miss their delicious delicacies as well. Most of the visitors want to try the infamous yoghurt from Yoghurt House (as the name implies.☻) but unfortunately, they really lack manners and good customer service. We’ve been to that place twice and we’ve been treated badly by the staff, twice as well. It was not a good experience for us first timers to be treated that way. One of our colleagues blurted out that the yoghurt is not that good at all. He said, “Para ka lang naman palang kumain ng panis na Nestle cream.” I would suggest, that instead of Yoghurt house, why not try Lemon Pie House where they serve freshly-baked Blueberry pie, Egg pie and Lemon pie matching with an aromatic Sagada brewed coffee. The service is superb, the staff is so friendly and accommodating and the place is cozy.

On the last day of our tour, we tried catching the sunrise in Kiltepan but due to the heavy fog that day, the sun is nowhere to be seen. We just enjoyed the view instead, took some pictures, took a little hike and finally went back to the guesthouse to prepare for our departure. We took off from the place at around 11AM and went our way directly to Cordillera of the Mountain Province, where we were able to reach the highest point of the country’s highway system. From there, we went straight to Baguio as the last pit stop of the tour.

In totality, the tour is really one of a kind. It brought me closer to our roots and culture and made me proud that our country has more than it can give to the world.

This tour has been made possible through the efforts of our organizer, Miss Mira Donna Belialba. Also, we would like thank our tourguides, Mr. Gareth Likigan, Erik Son (its his FB name), Edwin and Lester, who patiently helped us in everything.

To all Lakbayees, thank you for this once in a lifetime experience!!! More travels for us!!!!

Mom and Dad's 31st Anniversary

On the verge of this modern time, it is very inspiring to know that some marriages still survive through the test time. March 29, 2011 was the 31st wedding anniversary of parents. They've been together for 31 years and yet I can see that they don't (to be continued)

15th Sinigayan Festival

I went home last March 17 to witness the 15th Sinigayan Festival of my hometown, Sagay in Negros Occidental. For almost a decade now, it's the first time I was able to join and witness the street dancing Mardi Gras style. The streets and the plaza were filled with very energetic people. The party never ceases, day and night for 3 consecutive days. Live bands, beauty pageants and teachers night are some of the activities/programs of such a momentous event of the city.

I took the liberty to capture those moments. Please enjoy the pictures I've taken because it's the only proof that Sagaynons still manage to smile amidst the adversities in life.

25th Anniversary of EDSA People Power

Today's the 25th anniversary of the EDSA revolution. T'was in 1986 when the revolution arises and the people of the Republic of the Philippines became one and marched to EDSA to fight for their freedom from the dictatorship of the late president; Ferdinand Marcos and to free the country from martial law. The country was under Marcos' regime for 23 years and it has ended when the late first female president; President Corazon Aquino, stepped up, took the challenge and fought the Marcoses and she successfully brought them into their knees. This was the only bloodless revolution ever recorded in the history of the world. Prayers, faith to GOD and faith to the power of the people were the only weapons they've used against the then administration.

We are now celebrating and commemorating the said revolution which gives us the opportunity to enjoy our freedom.



We should be thankful to those who bravely gamble their lives back then by barricading their selves in front of the war tanks and in front of hundreds of soldiers who are just waiting for the orders from their then commander-in-chief.

Thank you very much! Your efforts have paid off and all of us are enjoying the freedom that we have right now.

To all Filipinos out there, "Isapuso at isadiwa natin ang alaala ng unang EDSA people power. Tayo'y tumayong muli at isulong ang pagbabago. MABUHAY TAYONG MGA PILIPINO!"


This is Gilbert and once again, you've been synchronized.

My Experimental Shots

I'm so excited and motivated to use my camera(Ayumi). Been practicing for awhile on how to take good pictures with great angles and subjects. Here are some of the pictures I took using Ayumi.


These are the red Jelly Fish at the Ocean Park.


And these are the blue jelly fish.


A glimpse of Luneta Park at night. Took a picture of the Jose Rizal monument at a different angle just to avoid mediocrity.


The musical fountain of Luneta. Most people gather around it and watch it till the ungodly hours of the day.


The Manila Post Office... kinda creepy though. =$


Catching the sunset by the bay.

More photos to come and more to post!

This is Gilbert and you've been synchronized.

MY DREAM CAME TRUE!

I'm so happy now because after a very long time, I finally got my dream camera, the Canon EOS60D. Thank you GOD for all my efforts have paid off.




It's clicking time bloggers!!! =)

2011 New Year's Resolutions

These are the things I wanna do this 2011.



I hope that I can finish everything on time.
Time, dedication and hard work are the things I need to put everything into reality.

Experimental Photos

I'm studying on how to edit photos, a self-study though, and I'm trying to apply it on to some of my favorite pictures taken by myself of course! Please see photos below and leave comments on how to improve it.


This was taken yesterday at the seaside of Mall of Asia while waiting for the sun to set.

Another view of the sea.

Me multiplied by three.

The pooping Doraemon.

The ripe one!

WTF!!! TAX???

I thought I started my day right yesterday. I felt like I woke up at the right side of the bed coz everything seems to be OK... but unfortunately at the end of the day, I was wrong.

I was so frustrated and disappointed after checking my pay for the last cut-off. I was expecting it to be somewhat big since I worked my ass off during the holidays and I have some overtime as well. I learned that I have a very huge amount of deduction due to tax deficit for last year. Never crossed my mind that it will come up to that certain amount. It all ruined my plans and budget. Everything has been divided before I got my pay. Now... I don't know what to do.

Since I already made some commitments, I must go on with it coz its hard for me to hold back. I will just try to sacrifice a little and will tighten my belt until the next payday.

I just hope that I'll be satisfied of what I'll be getting for the next salary period.


This is Gilbert and you've been synchronized!

Happy New Year!

Another year has passed and a new one has come. 2010 has been a memorable one for me. T'was the year I found love and lost it at the same time. I win some and I lose some.



2010 seems like the beginning and the end for me. It has been a roller coaster ride but eventually, the ride is still worth while. It's now the right time for me to say goodbye to you 2010. Thank you for all the memories!



Welcome 2011!!! I know that it's gonna be challenging for me to face you but I'm all geared up and ready to collide with you head on! I just hope and pray that you've instored lotsa good things for me. SURPRISE me 2011! Surprise me!!! =)

Drooling Over Canon EOS 60D

I'm uber excited for next month coz I'm gonna get myself, my first ever DSLR camera. Since it's my first, then I should have the best and most convenient and easy-to-use camera for me. As I gather information through words of mouth and online information, I have come to a decision to get the Canon EOS 60D.




Been reading reviews and forums about it and I'm totally convinced to get it. Hopefully, if my budget permits me, I'll buy this camera before January 2011 ends. Still keeping my fingers crossed.



This is GILBERT and you've been synchronized.

Additional Pictures For My Food Photoblog

My friend, Joanna gave this to me as a pasalubong from her Christmas vacation in Baguio. These are Ube Jams from one of Baguio's finest, The Good Shepherd. One of my all-time-favorites from the City of Pines.



I ordered this Liempo Rice from Bacolod Chicken Inasal Restaurant. Choy, Ellen and I went out for a coffee last night and decided to eat a late-night dinner after.




The best-seller Pork Sisig of Bacolod Chicken Inasal. Choy ordered this one. Looks yummy, right?



Ellen decided to have a Salisbury Steak for herself. Looks delicious but Ellen wasn't able to finish it all.




This is our Noche Buena from the office last Christmas Eve. Everything on the plate is very delicious. T'was the first time, the caterer delivered a good food. Maybe it's a different caterer this year? I just don't know and I care less as long as the food is GOOD!


This is GILBERT and you've been synchronized!

The Pacman

Another milestone for Manny Pacquiao after winning the fight against Mexico's pride, Antonio "The Tornado" Margarito. The fight has been sought everywhere and by everyone. No traffic in EDSA at all coz all drivers took off to watch the said fight and the restaurants which offered a pay-per-view inclusive of a lunch buffet... all of the tickets were sold out.



The fight was so intense and would need others a breather for them to calm down. If you'll look at the streets, noone's there coz everyone's infront of their tele watching and cheering for the "Pambansang Kamao".


Physically, you can say that the Mexican fighter has all the advantage coz of his weight, height and long reach. Pacman had a hard time knocking him out but definitely, Pacman pulverized Margarito at the end of the fight. Pacman has a good hand and foot works. He has an overwhelming speed when it comes to throwing punches. Pacman threw 411 power punches and one of those punches gave Margarito a swollen eye.



During the events like this, all Filipinos unite and stand firm in supporting their fellowmen.
For Pacman, you made us all proud being a Filipino. You've brought honor to our country and to all Filipinos around the world. Another highlight in Philippines' history for winning 8 titles in a row.

Once again, this is Gilbert saying, "You've been synchronized!".

ICE Can Help You

We all carry our mobile phones with names & numbers stored in its memory but nobody, other than ourselves, knows which of these numbers belong to our closest family or friends.

If we were to be involved in an accident or were taken ill, the people attending us would have our mobile phone but wouldn't know who to call. Yes, there are hundreds of numbers stored but which one is the contact person in case of an emergency? Hence this "ICE" (In Case of Emergency) Campaign

The concept of "ICE" is catching on quickly. It is a method of contact during emergency situations.. As cell phones are carried by the majority of the population, all you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency under the name "ICE" ( In Case Of Emergency).

The idea was thought up by a paramedic who found that when he went to the scenes of accidents, there were always mobile phones with patients, but they didn't know which number to call. He therefore thought that it would be a good idea if there was a nationally recognized name for this purpose. In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply dialing the number you have stored as "ICE."

For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc. A great idea that will make a difference!

Let's spread the concept of ICE by storing an ICE number in our Mobile phones today!

Please forward this. It won't take too many "forwards" before everybody will know about this It really could save your life, or put a loved one's mind at rest .

Remember: ICE will speak for you when you are not able to.

Work Overload

I don’t know if it’s a good thing or not… but I’m kinda pre-occupied in the office lately. I’ve been in this situation for almost a month now. Reports, reports, and more reports are coming in to my way. I’ve been doing everything I could to deliver everything on time. Is this what we call “dedication”? Or I’m just simply doing it for the sake of work? Actually, I don’t know anymore. But if you’ll ask me if I’m still happy with what I’m doing… as a matter of fact… I am!

Maybe, I’m just experiencing too much stress due to excessive workloads. But how can I cope up with it? I can’t even go on leave for a day because we’re shorthanded in our manpower. My colleague resigned last month so basically I’m the only one doing the reports. Good thing, my supervisor took the liberty in doing some of the reports left by my ex-officemate.

Right now, I really want to unwind and would like to go somewhere else where I can relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the urban area. I know that it sucks to be like me sometimes but that’s just how the way life goes. Sometimes you have all the good things within your reach but there are times that you feel like you’re at the bottom of the food chain.

For now, I’ll just have to go with the flow and see what’s in it for me for the coming days. I hope and pray that it should be something big that would change my life. Still hoping and praying for it but I’m not totally expecting it. Just surprise me Lord… and I know you will. =)

This is Gilbert. Another day has passed and you’ve been synchronized.