TPI ::: Cutie Patooties Out Trippin

It's been quite a while since Tropang Puyat^® went on a trip so we were just giddy little dweebs when we drove up to Tagaytay last Sunday. Nanay Mely wanted to visit the Our Lady of Manaoag Shrine to offer thanks.

Being Caviteños, we've long thought of Tagaytay as no more different than a regular trip to a neighbor's house. Nonetheless, we always have fun each time (provided that we didn't have the snoots with us) because we're a really tight bunch.

Nanay Mely, as always, provided the food. She brought Aling Nita and Aling Rosie (and their kids) along so they, too, can catch a whiff of that fresh high-altitude oxygen that their urban environs lack.


O TINGIN MUNA DITO.

I knew it was going to be chilly but strong gusts of wind made lunch an unexpected challenge. We had to hurry up with it before the bulalo got all covered in sebo. I'm pretty sure this is a common concern for Tagaytay al fresco diners so it's a good thing we're food people. Personally, I'm not that big on bulalo but anything to warm up, right?


BILIS, TEN SECONDS NA!

We decided to climb down the ridge for an unobstructed view of Taal. As the scenery became clearer, I began shouting orders at my "models" to take their places for my envisioned shot. They were slightly embarassed over it but I was too absorbed in my idea to give a dang. Here are a few of those poses:




ROSE, KABABALIK LANG FROM JAPAN KAYA SANAY SA LAMIG. HUUS!








METEOR GARDEN BA?









THE "BOY'S" BAND









INGAT SA JEBS





It was probably around 71° F or 22° C up there with a wind chill factor of 48.2° F or 9° C so it was very cold and we, being lowlanders, couldn't wait to get back in the car. We continued on to the Manaoag Shrine, or Krystala as Eloi calls the image. (Don't ask me how and why.) The last time we were there was the day after our house was spared from a terrible fire last April. Anyway, more photos:




ON THE SECOND LEVEL OF THE SHRINE IS A CORRIDOR WITH I DON'T KNOW WHAT, POSSIBLY RELIGIOUS PRAYER CARDS.







AT THE TOP DECK, DEVOTEES CAN TOUCH THE LADY'S HAND IN PRAYER, DEEMED MIRACULOUS. TROPANG PUYAT CLIMBED UP FOR THE VIEW.




I want to say "Happy Birthday" to our Dada today. He's turning 64 and we'll have a modest dinner party for him tonight. I suppose he will find out over the next twelve months whether or not he'll still be needed or fed, receive a valentine, or "birthday greetings, bottle of wine.."

U2 ::: Cover Up

Question for you lot: how many times has Mr. Bono been seen on the cover of TIME magazine? TATLO.

And as most U2 fans already know by now, the glow-in-the-dark Irishman currently shares the Person of the Year cover with Bill and Melinda Gates. *blink*


I read through the feature articles on all three and I realize that the Gateses do deserve credit for the time and energy they put into this global emergency situation. Think about it, they could've just put up museums for themselves and let their money do all the work. The fact that they chose to immerse theirselves, albeit via private jet, puts them over those charity-singing celebrities.

Of course, Bono needs no propping up. Just a raised glass. Well done, Mr. Hewson!

So that online poll that, until yesterday, had J.K. Rowling leading at 30+ % did not jibe with the actual selection process after all. That means there is still some good in the world.

WARHOL ::: Good morning, Times Square!

Pero hindi po talaga Narcisa ang pangalan ko. This is just one of the things the Internet let's you do which you never thought were possible. I wonder what those people who saw it thought. Then again, given how it was flashed for only four seconds and at such an ungodly hour, I doubt if any human noticed my Broadway debut.

Interested in seeing your face light up 43rd? Just click my link and follow the instructions. If chosen, you'll get an email saying they displayed your photo on the billboard. Who says only waifs get these gigs?

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Blepharospasm

I woke up Saturday morning with slightly blurry vision with some contours double. A short while later, when I was up and about, I noticed my lower left eyelid faintly twitching. These types of things are on my ignore list so it hardly annoyed me that day. I figured it would go away after a shower--once my skin and muscles eased up.

Well, all of Sunday it was still a nuissance. I decided to look up twitching eyelid on the internet and here's what I found*:

Blepharospasm is the medical term for when your eyelid muscles repeatedly and rhythmically contract. In some instances, the eyelid may repeatedly close (or nearly close) and re-open.

In addition to having repetitive, uncontrollable twitching or spasms of your eyelid (usually the upper lid), you may be very sensitive to light or have blurry vision.

Although my eyes are far from shutting from these spasms, I did see some cloudy spots.

Eyelid twitching usually disappears without treatment. In the meantime, the following steps may help:

* Get more sleep.
* Drink less caffeine.
* Lubricate your eyes with eye drops.

If twitching is severe, small injections of Botulinum toxin can temporarily cure the spasms.

No, it's not severe. In fact, it seldom occurs at this point. However, I have to agree that I need more sleep. (Caffeine is not an issue because I don't drink coffee.) I've been averaging only about six hours since I went back to work. I also think my eyes aren't as used to prolonged staring at a computer monitor as they were when I was a slave. Oh well, tomorrow is Monday and I should make a mental note to give two hours allowance for the commute.

*from MedicinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

U2 ::: Damn Straight!

The Grammy nominees have been announced and U2 ought to be feeling "high, higher than the sun" right now.

• Album of the Year - How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb
• Song of the Year - "Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own"
• Best Rock Performance By a Duo or Group With Vocal - "Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own"
• Best Rock Song - "City of Blinding Lights"
• Best Rock Album - How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb

What a great way to cap off 2005. Let's hope and pray they sweep it again next February.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: In My Ears and In My Eyes

"I don't want to die at 40."
John Winston Lennon
9 October 1940 - 8 December 1980

U2 ::: Glow-in-the-dark Rockstar

Remember the early 90s when Clinton's early morning jogs would be popular late night monologue fare? "Eww, put them pasty whites away!!," Arsenio Hall would cringe. Well, here's "Bono en Acapulco" with a bunch of burly men to help him into the water, I think. Me thinks he needs to book return trips a few more times. You may view the rest of the paparazzi shots here.

The TIME Person of the Year poll is still online and Bono has just been surpassed by fans of Mother Nature. It's 13% for yer man against 19% for the tempestuous one. Think about it though, do we really need Mother Nature to get big-headed? Are we condoning her fits of wrath? Just asking the burning questions...

Well, it's almost Christmas again and although I am not as loaded with cash as I used to be around this time of year when I was a slave, I'm a heck of a lot happier with my job. Still, you can't help but miss the mindless spending.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Big Boys Bickering

"THAILAND again criticized the Philippines yesterday over its handling of the 23rd Southeast Asian Games and vowed to do a better job when it hosts the event in 2007." Full story

It's like in that final episode of Friends where Rachel is on a plane waiting for take off when Phoebe calls her on the cellphone and tells her "something is wrong with the left Philange." Rachel assures her nothing was wrong with the plane but the other passengers overhear her, panic, and scurry out anyway. In what began as a diplomatic faux pas committed by Minh (irreverent git heading the Vietnamese delegation), some figureheads of participating countries seem to have joined the mad soundbyte rush--as if Sideshow Minh needed an encore.

I don't know if Minh was ever caught by local news media since arriving but he pretty much stayed out of sight and let his gofers do damage control.

Now, you have Thaksin Shinawatra taking a swipe at the "host country" just because his athletes are competing below expectations. Really now, how'd he know for sure that there is widespread cheating? Takes one to know one, don't it? He says Manila should focus on promoting sportsmanship more...perhaps because he's uninitiated on the matter.

EVENT COVERAGE ::: Reconciling Rounders

[ACHTUNG! The following may be a little too detailed for some people's attention span. Please be advised.]

This supposed holiday weekend isn't really that extended for me since I spent all of Saturday covering the poker tournament CF Tagaytay organized. I honestly couldn't care less about poker--or any other card games for that matter--which is precisely why I volunteered for the assignment. I figured that since this is, primarily, what gives me work then I might as well embrace it. (Well, maybe just shake hands with it for now.) Besides, you can't let all the free food go to waste and the hotel accommodations don't hurt either...eventhough I probably didn't need it since my house was only half an hour away.

We pulled up the lobby at around 9:30 AM and went inside to meet up with folks from Marketing--all of whom, with the exception of the guy in barong, were in black suits. Mike, our tech, introduced me to them as "our new writer". (I swear, it's still a bit surreal whenever I hear that. You can say I'm overreacting but, sometimes, I feel like the title invites a lot of unreasonable expectations that I'd rather be discreet about what I do. But that's just me. Writers are really as workaday as jeepneys to most people.)

This being only my second time in a casino, I decided to tour the gaming area and observe what went on while the tech guy unloaded and set up our equipment. Maybe it's my naivete talking but I found it interesting how there were already quite a number of people at the slot machines that early in the day. Then I wondered if it were more like a "still there" situation. Not unlikely. Now, I know Hollywood's casinos depict scenes of seedy characters in leather suits and organized crime, and they may very well be true, but what I beheld was more like a sedentary Glico's for grown-ups. It was kind of disappointing.

Mr. Lanieza, the barong man (because he was the only guy wearing one; suits and ties for the other bigwhigs), saw me wandering aimlessly so he invited me into their office and offered me coffee from Figaro. I told him I didn't drink coffee so he asked the barista to bring in iced tea. I'm glad he wasn't nosey about why I don't drink the dark liquid because I have about a hundred reasons for him. Inside their office, he had to clear some space for me to sit as everything was crammed all over. He even turned on the TV for me! God bless him for knowing the perfect focal point. But then it was on the Kanguso channel. *smirk* Oh well, they were in Rome, my NEW favorite city, so it wasn't all ho-hum.

When Mike was done setting up, we decided to head on out and see the hotel room they booked for us. Yes, just one room! For three people...two roughnecks and me, the greenhorn. That's life in the trenches for ya. I just resigned myself to fate, realizing that my premise was now going to be Mike's stomping ground. That goober! He reminds me of Jimmy Santos intoxicated. On the way to Tagaytay, he would have these excited spasms and point out for Anthony, our driver, the pedestrians on the side of the road and declare how huge the points you would get if you hit them. He would say, "O, yun may kasamang bata! O, 'to mag-syota. Pare, laking points nyan 'pag binangga mo!! Ahu-hu-hu!!" I hoped he was talking about GTA, the game.

The hotel room was okay even if it only had the barest of necessities. If I were to be billeted there for days then, of course, their provisions would be gravely inept. There were the usual amenities: cable tv, a/c, table & chairs, and a built-in cabinet. Big up to them for having two separate bathrooms in the room as well.

We went back to the casino for lunch. I followed Mike and Anthony up to the employees' lounge where they gave us styros with bistek, fish fillet, arroz valenciana, and buko salad. They had refillable orange juice, too, which was great because I hardly drink softdrinks anymore. These card dealers are a well-fed bunch. "Panalo!" said Jimmy Santos several times.

After grubbing, I returned to the gaming area and, this time, chatted with the registration desk attendants about the turnout; there were quite a few lined up already. These folks were blowing off 20-grand starting bets just like that! And let me tell you, the players were pretty interesting sights. There was "Mr. Energy" Benny G, a garish man in tight black everything. He had stiff gray hair that looked like bunot with a pencil-thin braid extending from the back of his head. No wonder he refused to be seen on camera. Then, there was this Chinese man who seemed fairly normal if not for his brows that shot upward and forward, like check marks above his eyes. He looked exactly like those villains in old 70s Kung Fu movies--all he needed was the moustache and goatee. I thought I'd also mention that David Bunevacz, the half-Romanian former decathlete, was at one of the non-tournament tables. I bet he's one of the regulars.

Still no action was going on so we opted to go back to the hotel and nap. Well, after a couple of hours trying in vain, I decided to forget sleep and watch MTV instead. As expected, nothing was worth watching but I did see the Blighty Pimp My Ride. That white boy host is no Xzibit but he had his own appeal. I could not help noticing how these Brits are so eloquent with English. Yes, I know. Duh, England? But what I mean is they use literary English with informal conversation.

At six we returned to the casino and see if Big Dodie had arrived. We had gotten word that he would be dropping by with Mister Cee-Oh-Oh sometime that evening. He didn't. Mr. Betita, the Branch Manager, told me later that night that although Boss Dodie was just across the hi-way from the casino, at the Taal Vista Hotel, he had other business to attend to and would not make an appearance. Only the COO made it and he brought displaymates with him. Meanwhile, eliminations ended and the players were down from 61 to 30. They were given a meal break so everyone went up to get dinner. Chibugan ulet! It was a buffet of paella, roast chicken, roast pork, fish fillet, creame of asparagus soup, salad, and a few other things I didn't recognize. Just the same, I got what I came for.

I did my rounds once again and caught up with the Marketing boss sitting at an empty table so I asked for an interview for my report. The woman was obviously bushed but told of what she knew nonetheless.

For the next four hours, I watched with dwindling interest as the players anteed up, folded, and what not. Those who were previously eliminated acted like hooligans cheering from the audience. They consumed large quantities of beer, blew mushrooms of smoke, and were just loud as heck. They were busted old JD buses, I kid you not!

The moment came and a winner emerged; a German pro Poker player who flew in just for this tournament. No question about whether or not it was worth the trip. He was moderately happy but tipped a thousand pesos only for some of the casino vendors. I wanted to interview him but he was always surrounded by people. And I was tired and didn't have the patience to ask questions.

After everything settled, we were treated to early morning grub by the Management heads. There were five of us now and we had Chinese noodles and dimsum this time. This was free meal #4 for this trip. Friendly advice to future visitors of CF Tagaytay: DO NOT waste your time dining at Chine. Orders will take atleast half an hour, they will NOT serve you tea unless you complain that you've been sitting there waiting for the dang thing for ten minutes, there's a snooty waiter who will make all kinds of disemboweled looks when he serves your food, they don't know that with condements you have to provide dip containers, they are completely incompetent. I'm sorry to declare that but you had to be there to see how bad they were. I thought Mike was gonna cause a ruckus because he was mouthing off things at the waiter. I decided to keep my negative comments about the service to myself. Did I mention they overcharge atleast threefold and above?

On the drive back to the hotel, the hi-way was dangerously unlit. The only illumination came from those houses on the ridge and a few commercial signs. Fog had engulfed everything around us, so much that you would half expect Jack the Ripper or a White Lady to hurl theirselves on the windshield. I was too tired to get scared. Really.

I didn't sleep too well because I was still in the same clothes that smelled of nicotine. The wake-up call I requested at 7 AM roused me. Of course, I turned the tv on and flipped channels. At 8:30, we decided to get ready for the road. We had complementary (read: measly) breakfast of garlic fried rice and a piece of skinny hotdog. Anthony requested for fried eggs just to make it a full meal.

After picking up what was left of our gear from the casino, we went on our way. We made a side trip to Mahogany Market for beef. The peddlers were all over me once they saw the marked vehicle I got out off. (We had the Revo "Media" one.) I got tired of saying "no" so I just gazed down and ignored them as I walked. They may have lower-priced beef here but everything else was marked way up as high as the city is from sea level. I bought a Pepsi and initially heard "thirteen" so I gave the vendor twenty pesos. She gave me a confused look and said, "Ma'am, thirty po."

We still had 400 pesos on our budget so we bought some KFC for the drive. I didn't feel like eating so I just bought some chicken fillet sandwiches for the folks at home. It's gonna be brain-drain Tuesday when I prepare the liquidation papers--I hate numbers like I hate grease.

Finally, we were in my turf. I asked Anthony to drop me off in front of our house because I didn't feel like walking 200 meters under the sun. They got to see Cavite's back roads and were surprised to see that we still have foliage and creeks with water. Mike saw my mother and told her they were returning me safe and sound...the geezer.

The first thing I did when I got home was bathe followed by much-desired sleep.

P.S. Sorry for the general absence of photos on my blog. My digital camera died early this year and I have yet to replace it but I remain optimistic.

WARHOL ::: ME-dia

Here's a link to an editorial in today's paper, part of which was written by yours truly.

Of course, they didn't put my name on it for which I'm thankful. There are a few typos and diction errors in there that I wouldn't touch with a thirty-nine-and-a-half foot pole. Not to brag but my copy was slightly better. At any rate, this is my first broadsheet involvement and I'm happy about it. That's the editorial page, man!

I was asked to produce that column feed last Friday. I've never done one before so it took the better part of my afternoon to write the thing. After about four hours, she went over the draft and said it was good but needed a few minor changes so it would read like this columnist's. The one above is the finished product with some unexpected edits. But who am I to complain? I'm just glad to be writing for my wages.

* * *

Another Serbisyo Muna Caravan was held this morning. It was in Parañaque and, this time, a bit less claustrophobic. They really had things organized and people weren't concentrated in one area so it made the job more tollerable. President Arroyo arrived for her usual walkthrough and photo op. The woman loves to wear blue.

After that, we stopped by the Airport CF on Sucat--the one that used to be Duty Free Philippines. I liked how they refurbished the place because, as I remember from about eight years ago, the interiors were pretty worn out: carpet stains, peeling wallpaper, leaky ceilings, etc. But now, everything looks shimmering and new from the floors to the lighting and fixtures. It's almost like an upscale mall.

I saw Tito Ping at a long table with our department's Big Dodi having lunch. We exchanged pleasantries and they each gave me a pat on the back. Tito Ping didn't know (or maybe forgot) that I worked in the same building as he does, he thought I worked at that casino. Me??

Since we were there to eat we wasted no time lining up for the buffet. Actually, there was no line and hardly any people. You could see that most of them were on the slot machines. The spread was impressive and that's all I'm gonna say about that! As a result, the van was quiet on the way back to the office.

* * *

At around 5 o'clock, my phone starts flashing (it's always on silent mode) and displays an international number calling. It was from Singapore. I was expecting the call because they had already spoken to me last Monday. (The girl I talked to on Monday said they'd like put me on the show to talk to the VJs. They picked me because they noticed that I was all over the messageboard and that I was a big fan of Colby. "Right?", she asked. I hesitated and said "yeaahh...sorta!")

The guy on the other end asked for me. Seems he was in the control booth because I could hear another person coaching him on what to instruct me and some other production buzz words being said in the background. They were taping this request show called Pop Inc. (So it appears they tape it at five in the afternoon?) He patched me through to their VJs Colby Miller and Denise Keller. They were laughing about something before I spoke to them. They asked me how I was and I said, "I'm okay. I'm actually at work right now." Colby asked, "what company do you work for?" And I said, " I work for a PR company!" (What I should have said was I worked "in" PR for a company. Major fib.) I think they hesitated a bit and asked if it was okay to be talking to them. I said "not sure" but "what they don't know won't hurt 'em!" Hesitation from them again and then I was asked me to hold and wait until they put me back live.

I found a spot behind a door that wasn't as noisy as the hallway where I initially stood. A minute passes and I hear "hi (my name)! how are you doing?!" from Denise and Colby. Tape was rolling.

Yada yada.

Denise: (my name), how much love do you have for Colby?
ME: (struggling for words) As much love...as a pumpkin has for its earth!
(Laughter all around.)
Colby: That's a lot of lovin'!
ME: Yeah!
Denise: So do you have anything you wanna ask Colby?
ME: Yeah, Colby, I'd like to ask you what would be your dream interview? (and then I say some incomprehensible stuff)
Colby: My dream what?
ME: Your dream interview! Who would you like to interview now that you're with MTV?
Colby: Oh! I have to say Jamie Foxx. He's a very talented fellow and he's coming out with a new album pretty soon. Not a lot of people know that he had a jazz album a couple of years back.
ME: Oh really? Well, see I didn't even know that. (again struggling for intelligent remarks)
Colby: Wait, (my name), do you have anything you want to ask Denise?
ME: Yes. For Denise, I want to know how you feel about your new haircut? (Exhibit A!)
Denise: Best thing I ever did in my life! Less shampoo, less conditioner. It's great!
ME: I agree
Colby: Alright (my name), well, thanks for being a fan and thanks for watching Pop Inc. You can go back to work now.
ME: Hey, no problem! Thanks, Denise. Thanks, Colby! Thanks MTV.
Colby/Denise: Bye!
ME: Bye.

Then the guy at the control booth got on the other end and explained that this episode will be aired on November 30th. He thanked me and we said goodbye.

I checked my cell and the call took a little over twnety minutes.

Reeling, I walked back into the office and sat quietly at my desk, replaying the whole thing in my mind. Why did I do that? Because I'm such a total loo-hoo-zer.

U2 ::: That's Enough Nostalgia Acts For Now

Even before the tour kicked off in San Diego, rumors have already been flying around of a more extensive international itinerary--like always. Now, U2.com finally confirmed that the band will be Vertigoing well into next year.

Eight years after they last played Australia, U2 are taking the Vertigo Tour to Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney in March. The shows are the first to be announced for 'Vertigo '06' which will kick off in February and also stop in Mexico, South America, New Zealand, Australia and Japan.

Yeah, that's as near as they come to Manila, my poor forsaken city. This leaves me with only two options: head for Van Diemen's Land (or Japan since it's closer) or launch a one-woman campaign to get rich tycoons, media empires, and "religious nuts, political fanatics in the stew" to bring U2's road show down here.

I sent emails to local promoter Midas Promotions and Principle Management early this year to find out if they were planning anything; both yielded negative. Maybe someone somewhere's doing something now that a swing by Japan has been announced. I really hope so and if there's anyone out there influential enough to get a production like this going, think of the retribution it will bring you if you do this. And, really, a big enough venue is not a problem. We can lend you the Bagong Nayon Pilipino Entertainment City (while the Senate sleeps on the company's fate!!) site which would probably get me in free...

Seriously, isn't anyone out there considering the benefits of seeing U2 play? Or are you all just gonna sit back, sipping margaritas, flaunting your pricey cellphones, and wither in all this acoustic rehash crap fake world you live in. I thought that with your US-bred education and Forbes Park twang you would know better.

U2 ::: Bono of the Year

Well, atleast that's what I'm hoping for.

I was checking out atU2.com and learned that TIME Magazine's Person of the Year online poll has Bono (or Yer Man--depending on who says it) in the running. I clicked to the site, voted, and found the following results* :

33% J.K. Rowling	19% Mother Nature
12% Bono	9% Steve Jobs
7% Lance Armstrong	5% The Google Guys
4% George W. Bush	3% Pope Benedict XVI
3% Condoleezza Rice	2% Bill and Melinda Gates
2% Valerie Plame	1% Rick Warren

I'm like, "Rowling???" Come on, where was she the rest of the year if not talking about the SAME book with the same UNORIGINAL story/characters. I would've been fine with Bush or Pope Benedict XVI since their actions did affect major demographic. But J.K. Rowling? Who's the knucklehead who nominated her? If she gets this then I'll have to conclude that TIME magazine writing has gone adolescent. You probably think I'm overreacting but I'm just apalled by this news. It somehow makes the world look like it's run by bourgeoise groupies. No dice. Well, what are you stalling there for? Get to the site and vote. You lazybones can click here.

*updated 12/07/2005 - Mother Nature doesn't need an award to affirm herself!

EVENT COVERAGE ::: Wide-eyed in the City

We went to a barangay in Caloocan City yesterday for the Serbisyo Muna mission. I was to write up a press release on the event and our senior writer told me to be at the office by 7:30 so I got there ahead of everyone else at 7:27. I liked the quiet solace those few minutes in the office gave me. It was my first time to take in the fantastic view of early morning Manila Bay from our sixth floor window. The water was sparkling blue and, from a distance, didn't seem like it actually reeked. (I'm kidding, the water doesn't smell--as much. If it did, there wouldn't be thousands of yuppies hanging around Baywalk every night!) A few moments passed by then the rest of the crew came.We then went down to the parked AUV on the street. I'm such a total geek and proud of it so allow me to say it was cool to hop into a vehicle with the word 'Media' all over it. I'm finally living the dream. Babaw, no?

We headed north along Roxas Boulevard, past the pier and 'Smokey Mountain', to Caloocan, rounding a couple of corners and were in Barangay 28 after twenty minutes. The site was already bustling with activity and crowds gathered around the area. I saw a few Malacañang PSG people standing with their grim faces scoping out the covered court where the proceedings took place. Everything seemed to be moving along so I started taking notes on the different services offered there: medical check-up, dental extractions, free medicine distribution, job recruitment, cottage industry demos, and a few others. They offered free facials, too, and it was a big hit among the the public who came. A significant percentage were women and children with a few elderly folks.

At 9:30, they announced that President Arroyo had arrived. I saw the convoy and limo pulling up on the street in front. She would stop by a few stalls in the place before entering the covered court premises where we waited. Media folks (photographers, cameramen, tv news crew, and reporters) followed her wherever she went. Finally, her entourage made their way to the foot of the stage, where I stood, and I was surprised to see how she was considerably shorter than me. Her bodyguards were lenient enough to provide space for her to move around and shake hands with people. She went up the stage to give a short speech and, in seconds, nearly crushed by photographers jockeying for position to get the money shot of the President along with other government officials. I almost felt guilty standing in that 'pit' because I had the best view but wasn't taking any photos. Being in the thick of it, I decided to observe the media people in action. The reporter on my right had a steno notebook and carried a recorder, which probably explained why on the only thing written on her notebook were "Bulgari earrings" and "no watch". I suppose these two bits of information took precedence over anything else there; not the free basic community services, not the content of the speech. So this is what the fourth estate is supposed to do, to note down presidential fashion accessories. After almost an hour touring the area, Mrs. Arroyo left for the PICC to visit another event.

We were back at the office by noon and I spent the rest of the day on my write-up. There wasn't anything else to do and this bored me to some extent. I'm sure it's not always going to be that slow. Overall, my first couple of days in PAGCOR's PR department were great. I met the bosses and they're all nice. A few snobs, too, but they'll come around.

EVENT COVERAGE ::: Lit Candles

We left for Angelus at about half past 5 yesterday afternoon and inched our way for 40 or so minutes (normally takes only 15) along the two-lane Toclong route. A sea of humanity met us when we reached the general vicinity of the cemetery. First thought that came to mind: nagrampa ang kabadingan. Yep, the freaks do come out at night and Halloween wasn't enough. Haha! I'm bad with crowd estimates but it seemed like there were five thousand pedestrians coming and going at any given time. They reminded me of Moses and the Israelites, minus a plan.

It's a well-known fact that this part of the year is when the rainy season unleashes its last torrents before the dry season begins. Thankfully, these past few days have seen relatively milder downpour but enough to make the ground boggy under foot. On top of that, we had to wriggle our way through a million tents pitched all over the place to reach Bino's grave. It was obvious how cramped our spot had gotten; a stark contrast to the sprawl we enjoyed on our first Undas there four years ago. Ate Lele and Kuya Cesar, who didn't seem fazed by the reduced space, were watching over their boys with Janet and Chessie when we reached the place.

I wanted to eat dinner soon as we got there but the burden* we had with us wanted to transfer to Ninang's right away. She, of course, could've gone ahead but due to her inferiority complex and inate/baseless overbearing personality, she wanted us to join her, immediately, "because nobody was there!" She said this with the affected sincerity they acquired growing up. This person doesn't/can't/won't think if her life depended on it. The truth was she wanted to leave so she could meet with her cohorts and gossip. Famished as I was, we (Jonas, Ynah, and I) got up and went with her.

How could you not be annoyed at this person? You make every effort to accommodate her into the group because, by some cruel trick of fate, she is family, and yet all we get in return is constant refusal to act like a mature adult--and she's older than us! Her parents really messed up. But I digress.

Once at Ninang's, we sat all quiet until our burden's guests arrived. We had to endure an eternity of pretentious talk: references to people and places we could care less about but are supposed to be impressive or interesting topics to them. It was obvious they were performing as opposed to talking. Why do I say so? Because the names and topics they mentioned have such affinity to them that it's impossible to believe they haven't talked about the same things before! Well, finally, they decided to leave for heck knows where. This burden didn't stay but fifteen minutes at Ninang's when she flaunted to us her fervent desire to get there! As she started to leave, she had the gall to order us to remain for a little while and forego eating dinner until later. That did it for me so I jokingly got up and said, "Let's go, let's eat!"

We decided to return to Bino's and have dinner. Lola Alice made some good adobo and menudo, as always. Then Eloi received a text message saying Nanay Mely wanted to be admitted to Medical City because her ear infection had become unbearably painful; she and Mark left for Pasig. Back at Angelus, talk revolved around the kids, their newly acquired chicks, food, chatting with Irene earlier that day, and other relevant things.

Dada came and invited us back to Ninang's. Where has he been all day? I didn't care to ask because he wouldn't say anyway. He fed us kikiam and slices of pizza--both at ridiculously jacked up prices. By 10:20 PM, my father was feeling tired and wanted to go home, but we didn't. So Wicca, Jonas, and I stayed on for another two and a half hours then returned to Angelus to eat some more. Heh! Eloi and Mark were also back. Some of us wanted to pee so back to Ninang we went. We sat and chatted for a little while, cleaned up a bit, and rearranged the flower pots before returning to Angelus.

At 4:10 am, everyone decided to pack it up and call it a night. We took Te Mato home to Meadowood. We saw the big-ass house she lives in, too. Nice digs although we didn't go inside for closer scrutiny. Finally, at around 5:30 am we got home and went to bed.

I had fun writing all that.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Aren't Gas Prices Crushing You Yet?

It being the third day straight in a very long weekend, I blithely expected Metro traffic to be a breeze. As such, I scrapped 30 minutes off my usual commute time allowance of 90--because I like to live on the edge. I bragged that I'd get to Makati in forty minutes, tops. Boy, was I wrong. Sure, no pile-ups met my trek to work but people were still everywhere. So now I had to get a taxicab! I don't particularly like that because drivers NEVER GIVE CHANGE. Those LED indicators should also say how much your change is, just like the POS registers. "Wala 'kong panukli eh." Lokohin mo lelang mo, maghapon ka nang nag-bi-biyahe, walang panuki!? No matter how insignificant and raggedy I look, taxi drivers seem to read 'anak ni Lucio Tan' on my forehead all the time. Long story short, I made it with just a few minutes to spare.

Wipe that drivel off your chin, I'm almost done.

On that same cab ride, I saw children in Halloween costumes rounding the corner of Ayala and Makati avenues with paperbags of candy. Oddly enough, they were not accompanied by any adult. That's The Philippines for ya. The rich brats will be in and around the San Lorenzo, Dasma, Forbes Park, and Magallanes villages' streets later tonight while the poor kids hang around for leftovers at their pearly gates.

The carpark at Ayala Center was full. Folks do have money for gas. Tell me, how are we to send the message that we're drowning in penury when brand new cars keep showing up at the streets and filling up parking spots? I don't like to advocate the idea that only the lower margins of society are affected by the economic slump but it's painfully obvious.

My sister was putting up our fake plastic fire hazard Christmas Tree when I left the house. It was funny how everyone with bad moods quickly got all giddy after they joined in on the decorating. By the way, we'll all be at the cemetery tomorrow for Undas and I'm so looking forward to seeing my lovely relatives again, they always have nice things to say to me. *doubles over*

WHIMSY ::: My Return to Dilbert

Look at this, it's really funny on so many levels. I used to read these each Sunday when the colored comics get posted.

There was one strip from a couple years back where it mentioned tech support for Dilbert's company was being outsourced to Mexico, which outsourced to The Philippines, which outsourced to India. At the time, I worked for a company that did offshore outsourcing and I guess it hit home. Hehe! All I can say is, "Deal with it, cheapskates!!!"

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Public Transport's Entertainment Value

In a crowded bus to Baclaran, the radio blared a popular remake (when will they stop!?) of an old 80s Kylie Minogue-Jason Donovan hit. When it got to the chorus, a rather loud singing voice was heard above the din. It was this kid of maybe 9 or 10 and he reminded me of how some people with headphones forget their own volume.

This lady on the seat in front of the boy, obviously ticked but kept poker-faced, turned and gave him the look as if to ask "who are you with and why can't they shut you up?"

You'd think the child would have gotten scared by that but he kept on singing each time it got to the chorus! I smirked and thought how devastating it must be for any child when it came time for them to realize their cuteness has turned to nuisance.

EVENT COVERAGE ::: October Jam

Today is my cousin Jam-Jam's 4th birthday. It's also Trinity's 5th. Happy birthday to you both!

I took this photo of Chessie, Jam-Jam, and Ayie last weekend. Days later, I walked into their room and Shrek 2 was on. They were hardly watching it. Ayie was jumping on the bed and throwing pillows while Jam laid on his side, fetus style, very near the edge. Chessie was on one corner. Jam got up to show me his notebook where he had drawn and colored some shapes. I noticed there were stamps and signatures on the pages and he told me they were of his teacher--when he was in school. Yes, Jam went to school, albeit, for a very short time of barely a month based on the dates on the signatures. I didn't know he was even enrolled. But I guess he really wasn't up for it yet because he's back to being a bum while his older brother carried on with school. I remember my earliest days in Unida Christian School when I told my mother I would stop after Kindergarten.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Somewhat Unsettling Yet Desirable

I'm at the office -- my new workplace for the foreseeable future, that is. It's definitely not like a call center here at AskMeNow although it feels like one. I came in about half an hour before my shift and now I'm blogging. Feels weird because in my previous call center jobs it was always loaded on the first day. Actually, the reason for this lagtime is because I've yet to get a log-in name for the tool they use here. I'm just enjoying the ride while it lasts.

U2 ::: Bono attributes Meldific.

First off: Where do you get those sunglasses?

Bulgari. A lot of people think that, when they see a "B" on the side, that it's just my own megalomania. Only half the time it is. I'm the Imelda Marcos of sunglasses.

Really now? I know he sported D&G shades not long ago. In any case, this issue should be available at FullyBooked by next week and will probably set me back a thousand, easily. Click the cover photo below to read an excerpt from RollingStone.com.

I don't know about you but he looks to me like a cross between The Boss and Elvis Costello underneath all that facial hair.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Step 138, Surrender Your Liver

I've just been informed that I will need to get a tooth extraction, prophylaxis, and tooth filling. This is yet another of PAGCOR's challenges in their long and winding pre-employment road. And I thought I'd start working for them before the month is through. Who was I kidding? Right now, it looks more like 'before the year is over' to me.

Of course, I'll have to do as they say! They, again, did not disclose what happens after all this alien probing.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: 3 Looks Like 5

I know we're going full-speed ahead with the holiday season when I look out the window and the sun's angle makes things look like it's closer to five o'clock than it actually is. Plus, the temperature's a bit cooler in the afternoons. *sigh* Then you hear John Lennon's "Happy Christmas, War is Over" on the radio and, suddenly, it dawns on you that time doesn't really take time. Something about this part of the year gets me contemplating.

Before all that, November 1st is just a couple weeks away and it's always a considerably big event, atleast in my uber-extended family. While growing up in the fabulous 80s, we were shown the importance of knowing and meeting relatives. It wouldn't matter if the last person responsible for the consanguinity died ages ago("nineteen for-gotten," they often quipped) because family is family. Each time All Saints' Day came around, our 'pantheon' would be swarming with people. Later on, some of the regular faces would be missing and the annual body count waned. A few left the country and others couldn't make the trip due to illness; while some opted to remain in the cemetery for good. What used to be tag-along children back then are now the ones in-charge of arrangements: flowers, food, candles, etc. Because it has always been part of our childhood, my siblings, cousins, and I don't need to be bribed or, in the off chance, emotionally blackmailed to get moving with it.

They are, again, doing some rennovations on Ninang's puntod so steel welding and carpentry are what you might see at the driveway these days. It's not as bad because I've been sleeping in my room (in the nighttime, finally) so the noise they make doesn't cut into my precious slumber. I'm also hoping to get my official appointment from PAGCOR next week which means I'll be out of the house all day until well into the night since I work part-time for AMN.

This is all I care to write about today. Maybe something will kick in later. Quien sabe?

U2 ::: Boy Meets Band, Boy Gets Awestuck

First, this random U2 update that I simply love to blab on about although nobody really gives a monkey's.

As you can see on this photo, it doesn't have to be Saint Paddy's for Irish folk to take over New York. By the way, how lucky is that person who won the K-lite contest for a trip to see U2? I can only hope that person brushed up on vintage material since the band have been injecting quite a few early 80s album tracks into the setlist. Anyway, I don't think Late Nite with Conan O'Brien has ever had such a monumental episode as "U2 Thursday". For those who don't know, U2 are in the midst of another NYC invasion--their second one for '05 and third within the last twelve months.

The interview gave us fans a chance to see the band tell stories with such comic assertiveness. (Did you feel like you were in a pub with them, cold Guinness in hand?) Conan, clearly overwhelmed in the presence of greatness, offered that self-deprecating wit he's known for making the interview one of late night TV's classic moments.

Dead cowboy! Bon Jovi! Hahahaha!

* * *

PAGCOR finally called me and said I've been hired as writer for their corporate communications office. These past two weeks have been spent running here and there putting together the ridiculous list of documents they're asking of me. The experience has been nothing short of a rude awakening for me on how government employees relate to the general public seeking their services. Initially, the absence of courtesy and abundance of high-and-mighty attitudes they displayed got on my nerves. You couldn't help but believe they behave this way as a result of sheer job dissatisfaction. Every office I walk into had blank faces and a general feel of crabbiness in the air. When I told this experience to my peeps, they shared the statement that it's just the way it is with government workers. Still, coming from a customer service environment like I did, the widespread disregard for grace and professionalism I witnessed was repulsive. We pay an enormous amount of taxes that let these loafers sit behind desks to chitchat the whole day then act all irritated when you show up and they'd have to earn their keep. Crudeness was so rampant I quickly learned to expect the worst from each of my stops and they didn't disappoint. I think it boils down to our culture. Our long history of bowing and looking up to Spaniards had such an impact on us that we Pinoys thrive on finally having influence, grabbing each chance to be in control of someone or something. That explains the title of this post. I think this de facto mentality has got to go.

* * *

There's a new BPO in town called Ask Me Now. It's a contact center, which means they don't actually do voice support. Instead, they process information requests from customers sent through email, text, or phone voice messages. I'm scheduled for a final interview there on Monday. My plan is to work there part-time, juggling it with the PAGCOR job. I had 14-hour days with my last PS shift that I don't think working two jobs will be that much of a stretch. We'll see.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: What's Today?

Found this interesting tidbit from @U2.com: "... today is the 29th anniversary of the first meeting of the band that would become U2."

Why is that interesting? Because it's also Wicca's birthday! I'm sure he'll get a kick out of this trivia.

Happy birthday, Wicca.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Blame It On The Rain, Yeah, Yeah!

No, I wasn't a fan of Milli Vanilli. But I do find it entertaining how despite the perspicuity of their cheap trick, the RIAA, in their most unseemly stupor, awarded this duo the Grammy for Best New Artist. I guess the voters were sold on the running man. Go figure. Anyway, I'm not about to get started on the most ridiculous Grammy winners ever--much as I'd like to. This here entry is just an ordinary summation of the comings and goings since my last post. Let's get started.

I finished reading a book (Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris) last week, something I haven't done in a long while. There are lots of excuses to why that is and I leave it up to you to decide on their validity. For one, when I crack an old favorite, I get drawn to it for weeks and read nothing else. Other times when I'm at the bookstore, everything just looks the same and when I do find something I like, it either is too expensive or I have second thoughts about spending per se. Yes, I'm indecisive like that. There's a book called The F*ck-Up by Arthur Nersesian that I've been wanting to get for a very long time but it always seems to be out of stock at Powerbooks. Then one day, I found several copies of it on their shelves so I got excited and picked one up. As I walked towards the counter, guilt crept into my head, manipulating my thoughts like a hand-tossed dough. And so I paced around for awhile weighing the issue until, finally, I put the title back and walked out empty handed. So I'm happy to report that although getting this new book was a stab in the dark, I enjoyed it immensely (I love humorist essays, more so those about one's family) and know that I'll be reading it again sometime in the future.

Also last week, I went in for another interview with Archie Rodriguez--Mr. CPK as I told you about in my last entry. But before I go on with that, let me tell you about what happened while we waited for him.

There were three of us (a guy and two girls) TL candidates picked out from some ten applicants in the group activity/screening who were waiting to be interviewed. The guy was a former chef and was Tier 2 for Dell in Client Logic; the girl was, like me, another agent from Teletech's long line of leavers. They both seemed au courant with call centers which resulted in a pretty engaging conversation with all of us exchanging inside info on habits, callers, etc.

I have to mention that the guy was a total geek and I say that with utmost respect and amusement. He went on extensively about medieval warfare and weaponry, Dungeons and Dragons, and how nice the New York "hole-in-the-wall" pizza take-out counters were.

Eventually, we were told to go in (one by one) for the interview with "ACR". I'd love to devote a thousand words to this part of that day but it really was nothing out of the ordinary.

His first words were in the form of an apology saying he'd just come from a television interview which caused him to be about 90 minutes late. He had generic questions which I've been asked innumerable times (education, leadership ideas, employment history, etc.) that I probably was only half-conscious as I sat there and moved my mouth.

I noticed he had rather plain digs: desk, computer, knick-knacks, box of Kleenex. What? No wood-paneled walls, leather furniture, plasma TV, Cuban cigars, or even a knight's armor? It was nondescript, to say the least. Even his screensaver was pretty mundane--photos of company events and his model girlfriend's fashion spread. I was probably wrong to expect what I did because, after all, this was a guy who took a temp job at Sega customer service in California when he could have gone home to the Philippines and be a hotshot executive in his family's businesses. We probably talked for a good 20 minutes or so before we shook hands and said our goodbyes.

On my way home, I remembered him saying at the beginning of the interview that he wanted to get to know me better because he thought, of all the people he observed in my group, I had the credibility and skills to handle the job. Coming from him, I thought that was an immense complement but I only uttered a subdued "thank you" lest he thinks too much of himself or that I'm grossly deprived of affirmation. Anyway, they're supposed to let me know the results some time next week.

I like it when it rains, but only when I'm at home and without any need of going outside. It's not so much about getting drenched as it is about having to walk around with my feet and shins getting all splattered with mud.

Speaking of which, everybody should agree that last night's downpour got to an alarming level. My brother and I were up all night scooping up bucketfuls of rainwater which had seeped through the cracks into our living room. It's nothing unusual for us because we do that at least once every Rainy Season but we always have to watch out for a possible repeat of what we jokingly call 'the great flood of 2000'.

By 4 am, the rain had subsided to ambon but we were still at it. Although we had removed a substantial amount of water, we still needed to mop up to thoroughly dry the floor. I had been up for nearly 24 hours by this time and working for through the night that I finally got too tired to continue and laid down to call it a night--at 6 in the morning.

People always ask me if I'm back to work yet and the answer is still 'no'. It's just that I don't want to join a company when I know I'll leave months later when the job I originally wanted finally accepts me, not a good practice. I tell them that I have pending applications at such and such places; places where I plan to grow a lengthy career. You'd think that would be a sufficient enough answer for them to drop the subject but nuh-uh. What gets me seething is these folks go on to pose the money question and even try to insinuate how I shouldn't live so blithely. Come on, just because you're working and I'm not doesn't mean I owe it to you to work, neither does it suggest that I have no direction in life. It has gotten to ridiculously imposing levels, these inquiries. I just shrug it all off. Meanwhile, I'm having a ball writing and watching Colby Miller on MTV. A little guilty pleasure never hurt.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Dream A Little

It's the beginning of September, folks! Yes, I know, everyone's well aware of that, no need to shout it on mountaintops. But trust me, there is an unending list of things to sulk about, personal and otherwise, that I'd rather come full circle and be in euphoria.

So what have I been doing? What do you want to know it for? Get a life, loser.

Just kidding.

The gang didn't make it to Joey's party for various reasons, i.e. are we going or are we not? is it on or is it off?

I went to Makati last Saturday for another prospective employment activity. I know I said before that I won't go back to a call center job but this one was a start-up and I wanted to see who the players were. The guy who built the business plan and heads the whole company is the same dude who started CPK, Italianni's, and Tequila Joe's in the Philippines--at guwapo sya, Kastilang mestizo. I was impressed that he built and grew his company at such a young age; he was 26, I think, when he opened CPK. (I'm 27 now and the only investment I've made is bad credit, hah!) From the things he said, you could sense focus, intelligence, and profound pride in being Filipino. He even went on to state that he was, indeed, Pinoy even if many people think otherwise. Kasi nga, matangos ang ilong, matangkad, at balbas-sarado pa. There was no doubt in his mind, after almost a year doing research, that we can outperform other countries when it came to this industry. I thought to myself, "well, how ironic is it that the Insulares turned out to be more involved in our country's future than us natives." For his part, since he's not as endowed with wealth as he'd like to be, he gives back to the community in the form of companies and jobs which in turn feed the economy. "Never mind if some guy in the BIR steals our money," he said. "Two wrongs don't make a right." I've always believed that everyone should channel energy into performing their tasks well instead of looking up to a figurehead to get things done. It would be a huge learning experience for anyone to be part of a start-up company with that kind of optimism and direction. Then again, every business venture can brag about those qualities and only time will tell what sets this company apart from other centers out there. One day, I hope to have my own company that will thrive here in Cavite--I don't want it to be anywhere else.

Still no word from PAGCOR about the job there. Sometimes I ask myself, why would I want to work for them now of all times? The administration is on shaky ground at the moment which is possibly causing these delays in decision making. I wouldn't know, I've never worked for any government office. Carl, another K-Lite DJ and good friend, is egging me to turn in a demo for their station because they need one more jock. I have mixed feelings about it but knowing how it's the one thing I'm willing to drop everything for, I will go ahead and do that. Everything's a big you'll never know. The prospect does sound exciting especially since I already have friends there who share my musical interest. They'll never see me coming.

Time to get off this theme park.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: I Know Jack

About eight years ago, while rummaging through the discount pile at National, I found a book by C.S. Lewis called "Mere Christianity". He was often quoted on Sundays during the message at CCF so I already had an idea on what he mostly wrote. After reading the first few pages, I knew I had to take it home since it was priced at around Php80 only. I did not expect that it will be one my most treasured discoveries.

There has never been, in my opinion, a more sensible exposition on my faith than "Mere Christianity". It spoke to me as if both sides of my mental windshield were being wiped clean of streaks and grime. Whenever I go back and skim through the text, it almost gives me the feeling of coming home--soppy as that may be. I remember how parts of the text made so much sense that I would literally open my eyes wide in amazement; I was astonished at how I didn't see these truths before, especially when Lewis's points were clear and plain as day. From that point on, C.S. Lewis became one of my favorite writers of all time. I began searching for his work everywhere.

Reprints of "Mere Christianity" now go for Php300 and above for trade paperback editions. I suppose many more people are discovering the significance of this piece of literature. My slim copy of "Out of the Silent Planet," part one Lewis's sci-fi trilogy, set me back about Php50 when I got it in 1998. Today, you will need about five times (or more) that amount to buy the exact same edition.

This past week, I caught the trailer to "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" being shown at SM Bacoor's atrium. Obviously, I knew they were making this movie and that it's supposed to open this Christmas (January for us) but I have decided to isolate myself from all the marketing lest it takes even a whiff off the surprise and magic, if that's even possible. It would have been impossible to avoid the promotions. Anyway, I didn't pay much attention to whatever was playing on the huge TV until I saw the opening scenes with a boy counting off for a game of hide and seek. I knew what it was and, almost magnetically, I walked closer to the TV quickly, slowly being overwhelmed. It truly is a strange feeling to see a book you've read become a movie. I didn't have enough skin for my goose bumps. "This Christmas" flashed on the screen interspersed with swooping landscape scenes. My gosh, it even has the same opening spiel as "Fellowship": "This Christmas, the most incredible tale..." Now, of course, I can't wait to see the whole movie! I wonder if Lewis ever thought this would happen or if he had similar apprehensions about his work being adapted into film just as his bestfriend Tolkien had with "Lord of the Rings". I wonder what kind of discourse these two scholars are having now.

When the "Lord of the Rings: Return of the King" end credits rolled, I sat in the theatre as my eyes welled up, not only for the remarkable achievement, but also (and more) for the last goodbye I bade to that experience. I suppose that coincided with the last scene at the Grey Havens, oddly enough. Jeff Buckley should be singing in your head right about now. The equally piercing Annie Lennox theme song that played helped instigate the sense of loss. There was not going to be a 'next installment'. It was all over. "Harry Potter fans should wave their swizzlesticks in glee. They'll finally have the holiday box office instead of being moved to the following Summer in order to prevent people from seeing the blatant similarities," I snickered.

I'm glad I'm wrong.

No doubt, when "Narnia" opens, it will be number one on the U.S. box office for, at the very least, four weeks. People will be making a beeline to C.S. Lewis sections in bookstores, if not already. They've reprinted several of his books and are prominently displayed in your face when you walk into Powerbooks. I can't be happier with that. Also, I learned, albeit late, that Disney will make movies of all seven books. Douglas Gresham, Jack's stepson, who visited the country some six years ago and gave a talk about the professor, is co-producing the films. The movie was shot on location in New Zealand. New Zealand! That's it. I'm moving there. I don't care if sheep outnumber people. There's really no difference.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Laughing with the Tabon Man

Your bungling idiot strikes again, this time getting my SIM card blocked while attempting to put a PIN code. Of course, I have no idea where I stashed the piece of paper containing the unblocking key--I've never needed it. Trust me, if I had the slightest idea on how remarkably inept I were to become these past few months, I would have carried it with me to the ends of the earth. Instead, I'm left with a SIM card loaded with 300 credits no one will ever make use of, just when I'm expecting important calls and texts from all over. Everytime I look at my cell, I feel like breaking down. I hope people still know how to use a regular telephone and contact me just the same.

But there still is email, right? Wrong. I've concluded that employees only use this medium now for reprimanding and forwarding jokes or inspirational (?) poppycock. Even so, I can't go through one day without checking email. I, too, get jumpy if i don't get to review messages daily. Mistulang* ako'y namundok nang isang taon kung gayon. I'm reminded of something mentioned from a not-so-long-ago TV drama called Now and Again: man has existed for millions of years without the Internet that it's pathetic how we who live in the present liken downtime to the end of the world. Just ask any of my former Earthlink tech support buddies!

All this got me thinking of the early Pinoy, the Tabon Man. He would probably shake his head at our impersonal ways, relying on electronics to fellowship with one another when a simple wave of the hand or smile would do. Either that or snicker at how we are beside ourselves when something as easily replacable as a SIM card causes us trouble. Yep, if Tabon man were to write a book about his modern day kalahi, he would call it something like "The Future's Oxymorons".


*as if, like, comparable to

RIGHT BRAIN ::: When you don't care about Monday

Here I am, pounding away at the keyboard at 2 o'clock in the morning.

Joey's turning 20 on the 25th and has invited the TPI mob for a birthday bash next Saturday. A friend of his is letting us use their house in Antipolo, which sits on a hillside overlooking the city, for a whole day of tomfoolery. Word to the wise: you're either filthy rich or completely out of your mind to let the Tropang Puyat take over your house like that. But I'm not complaining. Instead, I'm gonna go believing they're indeed 'filthy rich' as it makes thrashing that crib easier. Not that we're planning to (because we're such righteous kids) but ya never know!

I'm hoping Teletech will follow through with what they told me last week. They said my check will be released this week and I couldn't have needed it any other time. Those credit card collectors have been relentless in pursuit; even threatening me with legal innuendo. Truth be told, although my credit history has been slightly erratic, that's how they make huge money off me anyway. I'm also unfazed by it because I was a collections agent myself--for Fifth Third (turd) Bank--so I know these guys just mouth off whatever spiels they were trained to use and move on to the next delinquent account. They can check my payment history and see I've been foolishly paying them on time since getting the stupid visa. Anyway, no point wallowing in self-pity.

So here's to a new week upon us. I pray we get the retribution we deserve.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Cabin Fever

There's no way to justify this mess anymore. I'm calling it as I see it: these people make me crazy. I gotta get out of this house, these people, this country! The thoughtless things they do and do not do around here leave me exasperated, everyday. If there was any opportunity for me to get away from them, I'd take it. Otherwise, I'm going to either end up in some shabby psych ward or become one of those taong grasa wandering along Taft Avenue with no underwear.

I know what I'll do. I'll go up north, by myself. Baguio maybe. I just know one more day spent with these barnacles is a whole year off my lifespan!

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Ever the Whiner

So Jonas tells me he's thinking about auditioning for this talent search organized by a TV network. I say go get 'em! He's had his eye on that freakin' contest from the very beginning anyway. Plus, those people they pick to go on the show? Total losers. I think that if you have enough gall to be chastised on-air for your lack of talent, they'll put you in the running. Anyway, I hope he does show up and try out. Jonas has everything they could ever want or need in a teen idol. Jonas's blog is angakingpaa.blogspot.com. Do see!

In other developments, this morning I got a letter from one of the companies I interviewed with and, as expected, it was just to tell me "thanks but we've found our guy." Obviously, that's not how it was worded but you get the idea. I found it unusual that they would take the time to send out that missive. HRDs usually just email or text the bad (or great) news but this Program Director actually signed the letter which leads me to believe it was somewhat personalized. Big deal. A lot of difference that made when it seems my career is at a stand still. To tell you the truth, I wasn't even sure I really wanted that Account Executive job which, as she told me, involved mainly telemarketing. Now, there's a word I truly eschew.

So why did I bother? Primarily because Alan Ranch (good friend and a DJ from 103.5 Klite) recommended me to one of the bosses there. Second was the pay and third was the prospect of working in the daytime. I remember being daftly chipper when I walked into the PD's office -- owing largely to the fact that I didn't know the job involved selling. Spring in my step? Check! Firm handshake and bright smile? Check! Voice projection? Double check! Eventually, midway through the interview, she revealed that it was indeed a telemarketing position. Ugh! It was pretty much downhill from there. Although I was able to maintain enthusiasm and eloquence up to the end of our session, at the back of my mind was a different story. On the way home, I asked myself, "Do I really want to do this job selling heaven knows what, much less, talking to customers on the phone, again?" I already knew the answer but still kept on thinking that I owed it to myself to atleast give it a try.

And there on this morning's letter was my result.

To be honest, I'm quite relieved I didn't get the job. I don't know how long, if at all, I would have been able to remain doing that type of thing. I knew that application was doomed from the start. It's interesting how I was ahead of myself and was actually right.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Psyched To Be Here!

Another day draws to a close. I have no idea what to post right now so I'll take the cue from Jonas and put some song lyrics. This song was voted by critics of Q Magazine to be the best song ever recorded as of November 2003.

One
Is it getting better, or do you feel the same?
Will it make it easier on you, now you got someone to blame?
You say one love, one life, when it's one need in the night.
One love, we get to share it
Leaves you baby if you don't care for it.

Did I disappoint you or leave a bad taste in your mouth?
You act like you never had love and you want me to go without.
Well, it's too late tonight to drag the past out into the light.
We're one, but we're not the same.
We get to carry each other, carry each other... one

Have you come here for forgiveness,
Have you come to raise the dead
Have you come here to play Jesus to the lepers in your head
Did I ask too much, more than a lot
You gave me nothing, now it's all I got.
We're one, but we're not the same.
Well, we hurt each other, then we do it again.

You say love is a temple, love a higher law
Love is a temple, love the higher law.
You ask me to enter, but then you make me crawl
And I can't be holding on to what you got, when all you got is hurt.

One love, one blood, one life, you got to do what you should.
One life with each other: sisters, brothers.
One life, but we're not the same.
We get to carry each other, carry each other.
One, one.

RIGHT BRAIN ::: Rainy Chilly Monday Afternoon

All this rain is making my eyes watery and inducing sleep. I have no choice but to keep waiting for the day to end anyway. In the meantime, my final pay from Teletech should tide me over to whenever I start working again. Man, I could have been making some kind of money right now if I had gone with HSBC two months ago! Shaos told me last week that one former FTB agent applied for a csr job at HSBC, got hired, and started work--all in a week's time. And get this, he was offered Php21K base pay! See, this is why I wonder how some big call centers like PeopleSupport and Teletech (the two I've worked in so far) are on the cheap when it comes to compensation for experienced agents. Don't they know that companies like HSBC rake in the benefits from the seasoned talent pool who've resigned.

I decided to relaunch this blog after abandoning it three years ago. There's no particular reason in my doing so. I guess I'd like another place to share my writings, perhaps one with more color, I don't know. Speaking of writing, I've just read the posts from 2002 and I have to say I am really embarassed with all the mistakes I found in them. Some are just plain ridiculous. That doesn't mean that my future work will be free from errors but I have learned a few things since 2002.