Thursday, January 4, 2018

NTC, telcos and amateur and civic radio groups offer “Libreng Text at Tawag” assistance to Marawi City evacuees



In line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration last 17 October 2017 that Marawi City has been liberated from terrorist influence and DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana’s announcement last 23 October 2017 that combat operation in the City had been terminated, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) issued Office Order 179-10-2017 last 30 October 2017 instructing its Regional Office in Cagayan de Oro City, headed by its director, Engr. Teodoro Buenavista, Jr.,  to offer “Libreng Text at Tawag” services in evacuation centers for a period of seven (7) calendar days starting 31 October 2017.

The “Libreng Text at Tawag” services were located in five (5) evacuation centers in Iligan City:  Kanaway Evacuation Center, Tibanga; Sta. Elena Gymnasium, Sta. Elena; Buru-un School of Fisheries, Buru-un; Buru-un Gymnasium, Buru-un; and Maria Cristina Gym, Maria Cristina. In Cagayan de Oro City, the “Libreng Text at Tawag” services was offered in the Indahag Evacuation Center.
With the service, displaced families were able to inform their relatives, both here and abroad, of any further assistance needed.  The evacuees were also able to inform their loved ones of their safety and plans regarding their eventual return to Marawi City.  Reports say that more than 300,000 people were displaced by the conflict.
The “Libreng Text at Tawag” service included free NDD and overseas calls and was expanded to include other evacuation centers after its first week.  The NTC’s effort was implemented in cooperation with Globe, Smart and various amateur and civic radio groups, namely, Race9, ACTS Radio Club and KABALIKAT.
Here are some of the photos :)







Photo Credit: PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

Saturday, August 25, 2012

3 IDIOTS: A MOVIE TO REMEMBER

All is well. All is well. All is well. These are the lines I often hear from people who watched 3 IDIOTS. The remarkable comments would often be about fun, laughter and enjoyment the cast portrayed and the logic behind various subjects. While everyone gets on the buzz, I remained indifferent about the movie that I did not bother to watch it. I can hardly recall when it became a hit; perhaps months ago, even a year or so. Nevertheless, I entertained the idea of watching it if resources allow.

Voila!!! Someone shared with me a collection of movies and I chose what movie films to copy. I usually scan the list and find titles that interests me – this could be based on what other people have recommended to be fun and worth watching.  I have selected at most 10 movies and one of those is the 3 idiots :D

I was on my way to bed last night, around 11pm after I watched ABS-CBN teleseryes that I decided to view the files on my computer and spotted 3 idiots :D I was reluctant at first because I was a bit sleepy and would have loved to take a rest quite early.

3 Idiots Poster
Photo Credit: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1187043/ 
Recalling what others say that it’s really fun to watch, I endured watching the introductory part and true enough, the scenarios got my attention and with the academe as the setting, my interest was heightened. I was also thinking though, that I might watch the whole series in instalment, that would mean, spending an hour or less, then pause and watch again the next day :D But the scenes went on without me noticing that I was already hooked with the story. :D That 2 hours and approximately 44 minutes of watching was a bit exhausting :D But the humor and lessons shared allowed me to finish watching the movie until 2:30 AM :D.

These are the things/lessons that inspired me all throughout the movie:

The courage to question the status quo – the existing and obsolete education system that we follow.

I was truly amazed how Rancho insisted his own ways of defining things the practical way. The teacher’s resistance is common among schools at all levels because we have practiced to memorize what the book says and be it the basis for passing the exams. Verbatim is the format to determine whether students learned.

Moreover, the requisites and inculcations in our education system can be reflected in 3 purposive statements: Study hard, get good grades and land a good job. These draw serious implications. For instance, the fear of committing mistakes hinder the creativity of the student. One becomes static and be dependent largely on books, that a minor mistake can be fatal. This poses a challenge among teachers to teach the students more on how to learn the concepts and allow them to apply it in their own ways.
The positive affirmation: All is Well.

This is highly contagious and becomes more powerful when we sincerely express it. Amidst troubles, challenges and frustrations, saying All is Well will be a boost. A new strength will be revived and one will become courageous to face any trials.

The value of friendship and the essence of empathy

Jouie, a friend and a batchmate once said: “Friends will always be friends no matter what one has become.” I so love the bond of Rancho, Farhan and Raju in the movie and the empathy, compassion and love they gave each other make it unparalleled. Overcoming hard and trying times was made easier because of their willingness to help each other in various circumstances.

The will to follow your heart.

What others say often define us and what they dictate influence us in making decisions. This is evident on what our parents, relatives and even the society tell us on what would we be in the future. While we owe them their suggestions, we have a voice within that we need to entertain. It’s the instinct, our desire to realize what we want to become. The will to follow would surely be a struggle considering the various factors but it would really be fulfilling if, once in our life, we follow our hearts J  

Strive for excellence and success follows

I truly find this challenging because excellence is a lifelong commitment. It’s not just an act, but a series of repeated actions. One needs to consistently give the best way towards excellence. It’s a reminder that we should not settle for anything less that what is necessary. Doing things for the sake of compliance for instance is not a good practice.

Always be humble.

Humility is truly a virtue. One need not boast what he accomplished to outwit other people. I was amazed how Rancho remained humble even when he became the most sought scientist with 400 patents already. Chatur on the other hand, was put to shame because Rancho was far more successful than he is.  

I really had a great time watching the movie. Thanks to Ebil for sharing a copy of it.
Have you watched the movie? Hmmm… You should watch it… J






Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Today is the beginning of my new life...

                Today marks the beginning of my new life.

                Today, I thank the Lord for all the blessings He has given me.

                Today, I remember all the good things God has done for me.

                Today, I ask forgiveness to the people I have wronged and hurt.

                Today, I forgive every person who intentionally or not, have caused me pain.

                Today, I acknowledge the opportunities accorded me.

                Today, I thank every part of nature, the lush environment and fresh air.

                Today, I promise to focus on the positive aspects of life, even in the midst of challenges. Everything I know, has a purpose and the reason behind it is for my own good.

                Today, I want to give the best that I can and make other people happy.

                Today, I will spread the power of gratitude and positivism that everyone I encounter and those who read this will become enthusiastic and cheerful.

                Today, I will share smile to every person I meet. It costs nothing but will help enlighten depressed souls.

                Today, I offer my life to the Creator.

                Today is the best day of my life… Thank you Lord… You are loved… 







Like a Lady...

Like a lady, a gay longs for love
Like a lady, a gay falls in love
Like a lady, a gay feels pain
Like a lady, a gay avoids shame

Like a lady, a gay feels beautiful
Like a lady, a gay is hopeful
Like a lady, a gay wishes a good guy
Like a lady, a gay hates a shy guy

Like a lady, a gay loves butterfly
Like a lady, a gay knows how to beautify
Like a lady, a gay dreams high
Like a lady, a gay wants to reach the sky

Like a lady, a gay happily smiles
Like a lady, a gay sadly cries
Like a lady, a gay exudes happiness
Like a lady, a gay overcomes emptiness

Like a lady, a gay values relationship
Like a lady, a gay loves friendship
Like a lady, like any human beings, a gay encounters challenges
And like anybody else, a gay welcomes changes.

Like a lady…







Saturday, August 11, 2012

Remembering the Month of August @ SAS

One of the highly celebrated months in my high school years is August. Buwan Ng Wika tops the roster of activities highlighting the search for Ginoo and Bibining Wika. Other than this, there are two events in San Antonio School that I always remember, it’s the Parent’s Day Celebration and St. Dominic’s Day. These are usually simultaneously celebrated and I couldn’t help but reminisce these important events.

The Parent’s Day is a time to give thanks to our parents for their unconditional love and continued support. Inspired to socialize with other families and the opportunity to show their talents, the parents association in each class organizes a set of officers who will spearhead in the collection of funds, construction of a fiesta booth and preparation of food for everyone to share with. The event always includes a moment where students give their parents either of roses, thank you cards and other presents. True enough, parents exude happiness and some are even brought to tears because of the gratitude they give and receive from their children.

St. Dominic’s Day is also celebrated to give honor and thanksgiving, being the source of inspiration of the Dominican Order of Preachers. Blessed he was, that he is able to show us the way in knowing more about Jesus. “Amang Santo Domingo” song is a wonderful tribute to St. Dominic. The administrators of San Antonio School and the whole congregation acknowledge the goodness of St. Dominic.

If I am not mistaken, it was on this same day, August 11 more than a decade ago that we celebrated the Parent’s Day and the tribute to St. Dominic. Thank you thank you thank you :-)






Saturday, July 28, 2012

Dream… Believe… Survive


Dream… Believe… Survive

These are three of the proven ways to achieve success. These are actions that successful men and women have portrayed. And these are powerful affirmations that I want to follow.

Success is a very precious word. It is something that every man on earth wants to achieve. But the question is, How do we get there from where we are now. Again, How do we get there from where we are now. 

Allow me to share with you these three simple steps that I learned from reading motivational books, listening from successful individuals and living the example.

First is to DREAM BIG. Dreaming is a process of setting goals, an awareness of what it is that you want and the foundation of great fortunes.

According to Robert Kiyosaki, the author of the famous Rich Dad Poor Dad Series, one has to write his goals because if these are not written, they become mere wishes which can hardly come true. Bo Sanchez further added that when you write your dreams, forces of nature will work in your favour. It’s as if the universe will conspire to make your dreams come true. This facilitates visualization of dreams; that is to say, seeing yourself successful and having everything you want. Moreover, John Assarafhas consistently shared his story of becoming rich. He used to have a collection of photos showing mansions, money, cars and everything he wanted to have. He kept viewing it and later on in life, he became very rich and famous as a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker.

Here is an example of a vision board and I also have a video presentation reflecting my dreams in life. I am indeed hopeful that one day, I will achieve all these. As one adage says “A man with a dream will never be denied.”
Photo Credit: Google.com
Second is to Believe in Yourself and Have Faith in God.

You have to believe in yourself when no one else does. That’s what makes you a winner, says Venus Williams, an Olympic gold medallist. Try to be confident. It may be hard at times, but it will be fulfilling. I used to be a shy-type of person in my high school and college days. I never raised a question to my instructors and never ever volunteered for class recitation unless needed when grades are at stake.

I have gained self-confidence because of my dream of becoming rich, significant and successful. I wouldn’t be where I am now if I remained hesitant. For instance, last July 19, 2011, I happened to join a club meeting in Singapore after our educational tour there. I was reluctant at first to join the table topics. The voice within told me to participate and thank God, I was able to deliver my answer so well that I was awarded as “Best in Table Topics.” I didn’t expect it because the winner is determined by the highest number of votes from those who attended and all of them are Singaporeans. Thank God I made it. 

If you have a lot of limiting beliefs because you are conscious of what others may think of you, perish the thought. I like Dr. Daniel Amen’s 18/40/60 rule. When you’re 18, you are so conscious of how you appear to other people. When you’re 40, you don’t give a damn what anybody’s thinking of you and when you’re 60, you will realize that nobody’s been thinking about you at all. So quit worrying of what other people may say about you. They are too busy thinking of what you might think about them.

Another important lesson is that you should keep your faith in God no matter what happens. The divine intervention is so powerful that will make you stronger, braver and hopeful. If you are a bit frightened, ask God for guidance and you will be amazed how you handle your fears successfully.

And finally, the third step is: Survive the Test. In moments of unbearable trials, just keep going. Donald Trump always says, “never give up. Never ever ever give up.” The moment you lose focus is the moment that you will dwell into problems. Focus on the solution and never on the problem.

There has been a series of challenges that I face and everytime I wanted to quit, I am reminded of my aspirations in life, my family and my faith in God.

We should remember that Fortune goes to those who take massive actions. This is a bit demanding but this is the plausible way to make things happen. Excuses are not acceptable. Just do things that will make you successful.

Indeed, success is a matter of choice. Choose to be successful or the other way around. It is simply a progressive realization of a worthy ideal, a combination of baby and giant steps towards greatness. 

Let me ask, does everyone in this hall want to be successful? So, all of us, regardless of age and status, will dream big, believe in one’s self and have faith in God as well survive the test.

Dream… Believe… Survive…







Friday, July 27, 2012

My Birthday Blog Part IV. The Challenge of Saying “YES”

We live in a world filled with choices. The free will we have suggests our prerogative of what to choose and in each decision we make, we become responsible with the consequences.

Somewhere along the way, you will deal with people asking something from you. It could be a favor, an assignment or a proposal. Either of these instances necessitates your answer. It could be “yes” or “no” and perhaps “maybe.”

There’s nothing wrong with saying yes. In fact, it is thru agreements between two parties that set the pace of something to happen, be it worthwhile or not. Its impact even goes worldwide that with a single “yes”, everything changes. For instance, the “yes” of Mary has changed the history of mankind and our faith. This I learned in high school managed by Dominican Order of Preachers. 

In my 27 years of existence, I have been to test of saying yes or no to someone. Of the many requests, proposals, etc. asked of me, I often say “yes” and I have come to a point of asking myself, why??? … specially so that I have become more conscious of the consequences of my decisions.

I consider myself as a highly emotional person that I want to make someone be happy because of my favorable response. This goes to my family whom I love so much and would love to give everything that I have. Individuals who have become breadwinners because of financial constraints could relate well with me and they too will agree how we strive hard to give what they need. For the grownups who have been to it also advised not to make them parasites, after all, they can survive in their own ways.

My coming to Iligan City to further my studies welcomed me with more choices to consider. I have been exposed to the MBM Student Board where I take the lead as the president. Assuming the responsibility entails time for planning, organizing and facilitating events. I admit I enjoy the experience and I love what I am doing. Organizing educational trips for instance is a rewarding experience. I get to know more places, culture and business practices. We also have explored outreach activities like visiting home for the aged, giving alms to the needy and participating in tree growing. My schedules for my studies then have changed because I need to spend time for the student board. I believe learning is at its best if there is application, hence my willingness to undergo such.

Being a student also led me to the blogosphere-community of bloggers. With my classmate Lovette who extended some help for my first blog, I already got excited exploring the blogging world. I wanted then to have a website and I wanted to be a journalist :D. True enough, I enjoyed doing it because I can express myself through writing until Iligan Bloggers Society was created. The first meet and greet allowed us to know some of the bloggers in the city and right there and then was the election of officers. Assuming the responsibility as the Vice President was another challenge. It necessitates focus, coordination and time to perform the responsibilities well. I also admit that I enjoyed the first set of experiences but time has come that I could no longer attend to tasks associated with it not to mention other factors.

Worth mentioning also is my membership in Iligan Toastmasters Club. We meet every other Saturday and the experience is truly amazing. With the tension felt during the session, one can appreciate the lessons embedded in each of the speakers’ talk and the confidence developed in public speaking. I also have learned the essence of preparation for every speaking engagement because your performance matters. I admit that I don’t have perfect attendance. Looking forward though to become a competent communicator and hopefully a distinguished toastmaster someday.

More opportunities have come along my way and I learned the following:

·        Before saying yes, we should review your priorities and commitments.
·         Time Management. We should know how to draft a list of schedules and the ways to perform all of the tasks.

·         Anticipation of Learning. We should make learning a goal in every undertaking that we make.

·         Have fun. For every opportunity and endeavour, we should enjoy the moment and share happiness with our colleagues.

·         Stepping stone towards success. I believe opportunities come along our way because these will lead us towards the success we dreamed of.

·         An opportunity to help others. We should also think of our roles of being an inspiration to others.

·         A chance to make a difference. With the learning we get from everything we go through, hope we can make a difference that would be beneficial to everyone.

The challenge of saying yes continues as we explore life. A road of decisions awaits us and for every choice we make, hope we call on to God for guidance and enlightenment. I thank the Lord for everything I’ve gone through. I know all of these serve as a training ground for me to become a better person. J