Great 3-in-1 Coffee with a Perfect Blend

Rarely you find some product from the past that will just find its way back in the grocery shelf. Blend 45. I remember the Susan Roces commercial about this back in the 80s. I remember how plump and good those morning dew moistened coffee "cherry" fruits were being hand picked and turned in coffee from it's coffee "seeds." It was one beverage that I liked best to try when I was a kid. No kidding.

Fast forward. I was pleasantly surprised that Universal Robina Corporation took the chance to revive the product. Why? I never tried Blend 45. I was always eyeing this Yellow, Red, and Brown product off the grocery shelf but my mom would always get Nescafé. Drats. I finally had the chance right now - tall and mature - to actually try it. I bought the 3-in-1 Instant Coffee sachets and went home happy. 

Breakfast was usually Kopiko Coffee for me. I didn't like the Nescafé taste. I just got used to it but one morning, my wife, brought out this coffee that got my taste buds excited. I asked her if she brewed coffee or something. No, it's Blend 45 she said and this got me more excited. It's got that taste that - if you like Nescafé - will get you more excited because of the indescribable aroma that I can't love more. I now have a coffee I can call my own and it's Blend 45. It even cost less than Nescafé and Kopiko because I think it's introducing itself again in the market. It's less than 4 pesos. Why don't you try it.

Image Credit: Vintage Blend 45 ad: 4.bp.blogspot.com

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Was Lotto manipulated back in the days?

(Mandaluyong) IN THEORY there would be more people betting on the lotto prize of more than Php500,000,000.00 today but interestingly no one has won it yet. In comparison, I was told that during President Arroyo's time Malacañang Palace officials would win it more than one time. How true is this? If this is true, did PCSO had itself used for the wrong purpose? I'm researching this right now and it would be a heinous crime to fool the citizens of this nation. Just a (creepy) thought.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Mandaluyong, Lubusin ang Pera sa Basura

Basura. Pinandidirihan. Kinasusuklaman. Mabaho. Madumi. Pinagsisimulan ng sakit. Siguro pero hindi bagay na nabubulok ang aking sinasabi kung hindi ang pag-recycle ng basurang pwede pang gamitin.

Siguro iniisip ninyo na ang pag-re-recyle as isang bagay na hindi natin kailangan dahil ang issue ng pera at pagkain ang laging nasa isipan natin. Tama iyon pero puwede ba tayong kumain na hindi na iisipin ang pag-hinga? Dapat sabay, tama? 

Kailangan natin mag-recycle. Ang pag-isip kung magagamit pa ang basura ay dapat bigyang halaga upang lalo natin matulungan ang sarili natin. Paano? Sa pag-iisip ng paraan ng pag-re-recycle! Mapapakinabangan pa ba ang lumang diyaryo? Nagamit mong bote? Lumang damit? Tandaan, pera mo ang ginamit ng pambili sa bagay na ginamit mo. Hindi ba dapat pa nating lubusin ang paggamit nito na walang karagdagang paggastos pa? 

Sa artikulong nakita ko sa website (na ingles), tutulungan ka nitong bigyan ka ng idea upang makapag-recylce sa mga bagay na araw-araw mong ginagamit. Sa Amerika man ang halimbawa sa nakasulat dito, ang mga tips na binibigay nila dito ay makakatulong na lubusan. Sa puno't dulo nito, ikaw ay hindi lang nakakatulong sa iyong kapwa, ikaw din ay nagpapahalaga sa bagay na nabili mo ng iyong pawis (pera). Handa ka nang basahin ito? I-click mo'to.

Ito ang una kong artikulo na handog ko sa bayan ng Mandaluyong upang makatulong sa kapwa ko residente para sa ikakaunlad ng ating pamumuhay.

Mandaluyong, lubusin ang pera mo. Mag-recycle tayo!

Posted via email from The Great City

What?! 'Pink' Lucky Me! Noodles?

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While doing my stock replenishment at a nearby supermarket, I chanced upon a very odd-looking product that caught my attention. It's pink and it's squeezed in the middle of the Lucky Me! Noodles section. I took it and discovered, it's Lucky Me!'s new product called, "Pork Ribs." Hahaha. I was not amused by the flavor but by the radical way Monde Nissin colored their new instant noodle invention. We always know that red and orange is the most attractive way to associate your product with food but pink? What gives? 

 

I researched the product online and it was so new, it's not even in Lucky Me!'s product page. Anyway, I bought five and placed it on my store's shelf. 

 

Cooling Station will always be carrying new, interesting, and tasty products that customers can try. It will be a good addition to the store's market that devours instant noodle soups and canton variants like there's no tomorrow. Hahaha. Let's see how they will react to a new pink noodle soup.  

See the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Nescafe's Brown N' Creamy is out

Nescafe recently released its new three-in-one coffee products in the market called, Nescafe Brown N' Creamy 3-in-1 coffee. It is an apparent response to Kopiko's Brown Coffee and the market's growing taste and preference for coffee that has the "brown sugar" taste.

It's not as sweet and not as creamy, unfortunately. Kopiko Brown's Coffee is creamier and a smoother feel to it. Nescafe's is not like that and it's not good when the product claims to be creamy when it's actually not. But of course, that's me. Kopiko's edge is that it got out first, and it became the standard for this variant of three-in-one coffees. You have to have love for Nescafe to actually like this product. My verdict out of five stars? It's two stars only. But if you're a Nescafe loyalist and want to try this product, go check it out at Cooling Station. The product retails for Php6/sachet but we had to sell it at Php7.

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Complete meal and advice website for Diabetics

Are you afflicted with diabetes? Do you know anyone who has it? If you want to help, refer them this website called Diabetic Gourmet. It has advice and tips you need to help them live a better life. It also gives valuable information for those who need to know more about diabetes. You don't need to second guess on how to help yourself and those you love. 

But the best part about this site is that it provides a book-full of recipes that doesn't apologize for the flavors it promises to make meal time a great time for diabetics. Check Diabetic Gourmet now and don't forget to bookmark it. Watch out for more related food finds and reviews as we unearth valuable information for you. Click Cooling Station to find where we are today.

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Five (absurd) Thoughts Should 'P-Noy' Get Excommunicated

Let's say the Roman Catholic church continues with its excommunication of the president, what would happen next? Below are five thoughts (serious and farcical) that proves this move is counter-productive:

1. The church will be in danger of becoming irrelevant - At the end of the day, the government will continue to function and the president can convert to another Jesus-centered denomination? Will the government disenfranchise the Roman Catholic church? Interesting.

2. Jesus never excommunicated - Though the bible hinted on excluding a person out of the body of Christ, Jesus never said a message that a sinner can never repent and be part of the church once again. Did Jesus ever send fireballs from heaven to kill the Pharisees and those who condemned him? He teaches us to love our enemies right?

3. Excommunication is just on paper - The word means to suspend or to be deprived or to be out of communion. What does the Roman Catholic faith mean by this? It's just a paper. The person can just move on with his life and still believe in Jesus.

4. The Roman Catholic church will be sending the wrong signal - The church will cast fear on its members and it will be counter-productive. It could even mean excommunicating majority of its members. Why? Who follows the teachings the Roman Catholics give faithfully?  Lately, there are twenty-one incidents of excommunication in the 21st Century alone. See if the following things fall under the society's category.

5. We'll be included in the Guinness World Records (again!) for the first president to ever get excommunicated while in office.

So will excommunication ever prosper in light of this situation with the Philippines' birth control? I don't agree with abortion as well but I agree to President Aquino's point that the husband-and-wife should decide on matters like this. The only danger here is if the Roman Catholic church never taught its laity on the best possible decision that they will never regret. Abstention may be good but to stop short of telling them why is not progressive. Now, teaching faith that God will provide the kids' and parents' needs are best option to go. It's now up to the parents to decide for themselves but yes, never abort a kid when it's conceived.

If you want to know my initial thoughts about this whole deal between the government and the Roman Catholic church when the news became big, read it here.

Photo Credits: Pope, President Aquino

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Would Excommunicating The President Solve Rising Population?

By now, the government is bent in curbing the rising population that it believes contributes to the poverty of this nation. On the clergy side, it's the issue of abortion that they go against. So what can anybody do about this situation? 

I think the Roman Catholic church is missing the point in this matter. It is the duty of the government to impose laws that will help the state deal with economic issues. It may not be the proverbial silver bullet that will end poverty - the government knows that - but it will be doing something to give the choice directly in the hands of the laity. The church on the other hand has the golden opportunity to reveal the message of faith and grace to which the gospel clearly says about such problems we face as a society. The church is not doing enough, however, and this is causing much support to the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) bill.

So what if the church excommunicated the president? Would that change the scenario? It's one bullying tactic after another between the government and the Roman Catholic church and this does not solve anything.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Lawmaker's bill shows RP's desperation in basketball

“The 15th Congress has a unique opportunity to make a concrete contribution to our efforts to regain lost glory in international competitions,'' said Puno.

via sports.inquirer.net

A congressman from Antipolo, Rizal filed a bill and attempt to make two foreign basketball athletes become Filipinos. The move is legit and there probably aren't any laws to bar the said legislator from doing what he did. If the law is passed and we become champions, he is definitely putting every Filipinos dream to capture the crown a reality. But he is also causing a dent to capture the crown legitimately. Here's why: (1) We're sending a signal that we really can't do it (win the basketball crown in Asia) without these foreigners - great as they are; (2) The congressman is showing a bad example to children that if you can't win it - you can change the rules - as you please; (3) It will show the world that we win contests by technicalities (FIBA rules), using loopholes to win contests.

What kind of culture are we teaching kids who are playing sports? What kind of culture are we teaching our children by passing House Bill No. 2307?

To describe my utter disgust with this lawmaker's reason for filing this bill, here's what he commented to the media, "The 15th Congress has a unique opportunity to make a concrete contribution to our efforts to regain lost glory in international competitions."

Frankly, congressman, I'm not desperate to giveaway passports in exchange for trophies and "lost glory." If you're Filipino - you're Filipino. Period.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

What’s common between Captain Mendoza and Venus Raj?

 “Mean what you say and say what you mean.”

The biggest blunder the recent “Major, major” twin tragedies (excuse me for bringing this up again but it’s a must) that happened in the hostage-taking drama and Ms. Universe were all about miscommunication. You can never be wrong in taking communication for granted.

If the dismissed Captain Mendoza were true to his heart to say that he will not hurt his hostages, he may still live up to his family's honor. If Venus Raj (Ms. Philippines) humbly used a translator to answer her question and not be purely overwhelmed by the emotions of the pageant, she wouldn’t be finishing 4^th runner up in the recent 2010 Ms. Universe pageant.

“Ask,” I always tell people when they’re not sure of what they’re observing because through more information, you can never go wrong. Using the right communication, we will avoid fights, quarrels, and God forbid – death and yes, 4^th runner up finishes.

If you want to improve your communication, read this article and improve your skills keeping peace wherever you work and live. The article headlines ten things you should never forget when talking to anybody. If you are one that gets a lot of complaints when people talk to you, this article is for you.

Posted via email from Born 1973

Eight shallow questions about last night's hostage drama

Nothing will justify what former policeman Rolando Mendoza did last night to make the public take his side but what is more troubling is how the police did their job. Obviously, the police did not do a stellar performance in saving more lives or avoiding bloodshed during the drama and this brings forth a lot of questions what should have or shouldn't have happened. This goes the same with the media coverage: Did the presence of media hampered the effectiveness of the police operation? We just don't know. I'm posting some of those questions below to open discussion and learn valuable lessons from this as a concerned citizen of this nation. This will educate us and give us a broader understanding about the unfortunate incident that took place last night.

On the policeman's dismissal - We all know the disgruntled police officer snapped after hearing he lost his job from the service courtesy of the investigation made by the Office of the Ombudsman:

1. Why wasn't the former policeman's motion for reconsideration heard?
2. How many more cases like this is happening or will happen because the authorities in justice are not doing their job?

Just before the shooting started - It started minutes after the police (with full media coverage) took the hostage taker's brother into custody

1. Who authorized the arrest of the brother of the hostage taker that potentially started the situation?
2. Did the police know that the tourist bus have a television monitor to know what was going on when they arrested the brother of the hostage taker?
3. Didn't they know that the media will swarm on the arrest of the hostage taker's brother?

On the assault - If you watched the live or taped coverage of the drama, you'll have the same questions

1. What were the SWAT doing smashing the windows instead of using night vision goggles to track down Mendoza inside the bus?
2. In smashing the windows why were the police lacking materials to perform their operation like having ladders to smash the windows?
3. Why did the SWAT team go inside the bus without night vision goggles or even a flash light?

Photo credit: Pat Roque/AP (bus) / smh.com.au/AP (rolando mendoza)

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Bad Politics

What is this public-owned vehicle doing in Megamall?

Due diligence is a must to keep the public aware (in this case, Manila City residents) of public officials wanton abuse of our tax money for their own private needs.

This pictures were taken today (Ninoy Aquino's death anniversary day) at SM Megamall Building B, around 11:30 AM, at its second level parking. The two Manila City Tax-owned vehicles with District 1 Manila Congressman Asilo's name on it, were parked right in front of the mall's doors. Notice how they took out the plate number of the public vehicle to avoid being detected. However, they could not take away the conduction sticker off the windshield of the vehicle. They thought they won't be detected.

Ninoy's death in 1984 was the Filipinos' awakening of his/her consciousness of what should be done to right the wrong.

Does Rep. Atong Asilo know this? Does Mayor Alfredo Lim know this?

It's sad that such barangay public officials just don't get it. Let's fire these abusive people, please.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Download now or watch on posterous

Video007.3gp (84 KB)

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Starbucks is now offering Free wifi

via mashable.com

This news is from the U.S. but the main question now is when would Starbucks Philippines implement this? This is definitely great news especially to the Filipino market who loves to go online with their new found multimedia toys like iPhone, iPads, Macbooks, Vaios, and other smart phones. To many of the online community, this initiative by the coffee shop giant is long overdue. Starbucks is a place for reading books, studying, and research. Having this new feature will give more people reasons to go and enjoy the ambiance this Seattle-based coffee place offers. After this great news, you should know that Starbucks will also offer exclusive content only they could give customers. It's called Starbucks Digital Network or SDN. The said network will offer exclusive customers exclusive content only they could provide. According to Helium.com, when online inside their shops customers will get to choose five channels to get exclusive content for their purpose: News, Entertainment, Wellness, Business & Careers and My Neighborhood. Now, how exclusive this will be relies heavily on how enjoyable the experience is. Right now, it sounds promising, with Apple iTunes providing free downloads in the Entertainment channel of this SDN. The other providers are The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.

With this new feature, I sure hope Starbucks will win more customers but like I said it all depends on what their content can provide customers so we'll see how this will figure out in their operations.

Why Google Wave Will Live

No matter how much bashing Google Wave gets, I still think this Google application is a genius. The moment I got wind of its Beta testing, I requested for an account and started toying with it. As soon as I started using it, I saw all the possibilities that I can do with it to help me in my work and personal life. In fact, I dubbed it as the "Facebook-killer" because you can do so much more interactivity with it. In fact, I find Facebook (FB) mundane nowadays - reading other people's stats is not really that interesting for me. Yes FB gets me connected with other people but I need something more useful and meaningful that will last longer than pop culture - hint-hint.

People, especially in the Philippines, love chatting and sharing stories with one another. And Google Wave is perfect for that. In fact you can never go wrong with chatting because people need to exchange words than just posting and not knowing if people will connect or not. Google Wave thread any conversations (like gmail, of course) you make but with photos and other visual capabilities that could make the interaction more meaningful. You can share pictures, do polling, plan events, draft and edit documents, share music and videos, brainstorm. . .there's so much possibilities you can do with it. In fact, people that I asked to try it said they liked it too - especially when we start editing work online and real time.

With all the promise Google Wave can give me, I hope Google will not take The Wave out. I like the wave and there's huge potential in what it can do to help people get meaningful connections both at home and at work. I feel Google Wave didn't get the chance to be known more for people to enjoy its full potential.

Trivia
Aside from "Facebook-killer," do you want to know what other names I gave it to tell people about it? Other names I gave were "Yahoo! Messenger on Steroids" or "Email meets Facebook meets Yahoo! Messenger." How can you not love Google Wave?

Arroyo Admin to Aquino Admin: Be kind and fair to Arroyo

"I wish that those coming in to govern in the coming weeks will understand, as they start engaging bureaucracy and the people in government, that they’re there to support. They should not look at our brothers and sisters in government as just people sitting around, and using their position for their own personal interest." - Donald Dee, PCCI Member

via showbizandstyle.inquirer.net

I wonder what he and Sec. Bautista-Horn means when they said to be fair with President Arroyo. Their statements want me to ask two questions: If they have nothing to hide, why fear? and Is President-elect Aquino that vindictive and blood-thirsty to put outgoing President Arroyo behind bars?

For Sec. Bautista-Horn's part, I think she got it all wrong if she thinks all the Filipinos ever want to have are infrastructures. I think it's wrong to surmise that all we want are tall buildings, modern trains, and tough bridges. In my opinion, the good secretary should've just be humble enough that the Arroyo Administration has all these to offer and we hope the incoming administration could just further help the Filipinos in their plight until 2016. Something like that. But to suggest what people should feel is not within their rights. Unsolved social injustices, railroading congress, and unaccountable system of governance does not even merit a grade of "good." It's poor and it's compromising the moral fibers of our nation. Lastly, I don't like what Sec. Bautista-Horn said, ". . .I am very hopeful that the next President will further build on our achievements for the greater good of our people." "Our achievements," Ms. Horn? As far as I'm concerned, I think you should've just termed it as "these achievements" because you sound like somebody owes something to this administration. I think the Filipino people do not appreciate tangible progress without the intangible progress.

For Mr. Dee's remarks, it makes me want to ask why people would think that everyone inside the administration are just "sitting around, and using their position for their own personal interest." Are you saying exactly what people thinks? If that was so then you hit the bull's eye. Your statements should be answered with, "if there's smoke, there must be fire." And you just admitted that there is something hugely wrong with this administration's branding and system of governance.

To the men and women of President Arroyo's administration, "Thank you." You guys did your best under the circumstances. But never dictate what those you serve should think about this administration. Allow the people to reap what you worked on and just agree with the statement said once before to allow history decide on what Pres. Arroyo and her administration did. If you think you did enough then that's probably good for you but let us think for ourselves.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

La Nina threatens Australia

via heraldsun.com.au

It sounds funny to actually imagine that Australia will be bombarded by buckets full of water but that imagery does not bode well for those who will be affected by the continuous downpour of rain. Because of trash, clogged drainage, and undisciplined neighbors of ours - we are bound to suffer more than our neighbors down under. What is the government doing about it right now? Who's overseeing the progress of taking out the clogged sewer system we have in the city? Are we planting more than we should? The hot summer months killed most of the trees that's supposed to hold rain water from the highlands. What are we doing to remedy the situation? What are we doing to prevent disastrous problems?

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Coke 'bitin'

[Bē-tin] Colloquial for not being able to satisfy your needs in the Filipino vernacular. That's how I perceive Coca Cola right now. For those runs a business, it's tough isn't it? You have to know the business from inside and out. You have to feel your customers. Coca Cola, on the other hand, is acting like it never knew how to conduct good business practices.

Since February this year, Coca Cola has not supplied customers and store outlets consistently. A lot of the business it supports died already or is dying - including ours. We're exclusive Coca Cola wholesalers yet Coke couldn't supply the needs our customers (retail stores) are asking for.  

In terms of communication, Coca Cola has done poorly. It sent mixed signals about its state. So much so that rumors started circulating. A lot of people were saying that the soda giant is on the brink of bankruptcy - suffering from huge lawsuits that they're facing from allegedly a poisoned soda.

Another story surfaced stating more than two months ago that Coke is suffering from logistical problems. The story goes that Coke is in need of more bottles because the demand is greater than they could every fulfill and this is causing them problems. Yet another story came out stating that Coca Cola is suffering from its previous business handler. It's a long story but its basically putting the blame on the latter. And there are more stories that are going around. There's probably a hundred more stories floating and none of them are validated.

What's the point? You remain quiet - stories will circulate. Nasty stories. And Coke does not need that when they're already reaping good publicity out of their "Coke is Happiness" advertising campaign.

Coca Cola is basically managing its operations and public relations poorly.

In a book I read somewhere in Fully Booked that the employers of your business are not the ones who funded the business - it's your customers. If this is Coke's way of treating its customers by not being forthright with its business partners and customers then they have every right to fire Coke.

They are missing the fact that we're partners but by doing this they don't even know what they're talking about. And like their promises to budding business like ours - they're basically empty like this bottle.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Brazil's flood warning to The Philippines

via theepochtimes.com

I am taking the Rio Largo, Brazil flood as a warning to our country and I can't just sit down and pray that something changes. Though I do not discount the power of prayer - it is also my duty to act in my faith to remind my countrymen to do something about the flood that we've seen destroyed homes, properties, and even lives.

What are we doing, as a people, to prevent this?

This is the second time I will say it in my blogs. These floods are a warning to all of us who will soon be naming the next destructive storm that will precede Ondoy. I'm being sarcastic. Why wait? Let's do something about it and prepare for the heavy rains as much as the oath-taking of the next president. While we're on that topic, why not pray for President-elect Noynoy.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Scary Flash Rain Preview of 2010

Download now or watch on posterous

krisatienza_june192010rain.3gp (5017 KB)

Minutes before 6 PM, rain poured as the sun sets and the effect was reminiscent of Ondoy.

My family went for a short ride to San Juan to look for a restaurant where we will celebrate Father's Day. As we head off north on EDSA, rain started to pour: frist drizzle-then came the rain.

I read stories of flashfloods in the city of Nashville, Tennessee, USA, Europe, and India early this year and seeing how water was pouring hard gave me chilling thoughts of what Philippines was up to this year since we just experienced El Niño over the hottest-dry season on record. I'm also scared because our nation is still preparing for the new president's oath-taking by the end of this month. You also have President Arroyo winding down her work as Administrator and Commander-In-Chief and preparing her exit.

While driving around for ten minutes, I said "Let's go home." The hard rain reminded me of Ondoy and all I could think about was getting home. Big puddles of rain water started to form at the two outer lanes of EDSA causing more traffic as cars and buses alike drive at a snail's pace to avoid more accidents. I turned on my hazard lights (and so did others) to help others see me.

"This is a perfect disaster forming." I thought. With everyone turning their attention on other government matters, the residents are about to get hit by this storm system that not even the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa)  was able to warn us. I documented the experience and posted it on CNN's iReport so netizens can help me warn others about this potential disaster.

I'm not being pessimistic but for all intents and purposes, I just want this to be something that the Philippine government (outgoing and incoming) should focus on more this year. I am sure that flood-control, environment protection and its awareness, and disaster management will be one of President-elect Noynoy Aquino's acid tests of his job in the first 100 days in office. As they prepare for the party, I hope this government and the incoming one should be talking to avert any further loss of lives as we brace for La Niña. Let's wait and see as I pray for our people and the government to act decisively and fast.

Posted via email from Born 1973

Fail: This Bishop thinks public schools can harm children

Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) president Msgr. Gerardo Santos said such transfers may hurt the students’ “psychological and emotional" side.

via gmanews.tv

I think we're sending the wrong signal to our children and creating a bigger divide by saying this. I was private school educated from Don Bosco Makati and University of Sto. Tomas and I think people who got their schooling from cities with Integrated Schools and City Universities ('Pamantasan') have same - if not better - qualifications to lead after they graduate.

We're forgetting that education is the same and culture is what you make out of it. I think the bishop should address the concern of parents who are not instilling values to their children. How are they handling their values system and what is feeding the minds of parents that nurtures the minds of the children? The Bishop forgets that education starts from the home. I think that's where the psychological and emotional fears that should be addressed immediately.

Besides, our kids should be taught how to relate to any kid no matter what status they have in their lives. And if we do that then we're teaching our kids right.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Binay, President-elect Aquino's first test

But pressed about Binay's preference for the DILG portfolio, Aquino said, "That's his right as a citizen, to express his opinion.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

More and more it is becoming apparent that Vice President-elect Jejomar Binay will be President-elect Aquino's first acid test in his job as president. Binay made it clear after congress confirmed his election win that he wants the Interior and Local Government portfolio. Personally, I wonder why he wants that post so badly. I also think it was in bad taste for him to voice his preference when Aquino hasn't vetted any candidate yet for most of the cabinet positions in government.

Will Aquino give way to Binay? Will Binay become Aquino's thorn and be the opposition? More importantly, how will the nation react?

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Obama and BP

A variety of critics have accused Obama of being too cerebral in his reaction to the undersea gusher now fouling the Gulf of Mexico . . .

via edition.cnn.com

"Too cerebral?" I think President Obama deserves more respect than that. These critics, which the media overstates further, that we either have a leader who doesn't think or one that thinks deliberately before he acts. None of them makes anyone happy.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Filipino recorded asteroid impact on Jupiter

This is my third blog post something about Filipinos. This time, it's something to be proud about.

If you have not caught the news yet, a Cebuano-based astronomer named Christopher Go was one of only two people in the world to catch the rare asteroid impact on the gaseous planet, Jupiter, last June 3.

The fireball was as big as planet earth, Go said, and it only lasted for two seconds. Catch it here.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

What's so funny about Filipino Time?

It's almost like a joke to a lot of my countrymen when they mention "Filipino Time" like it's the best thing that our culture has to offer the world.

Filipinos are so much into humor and mentioning this seems like it's always said in jest. But who's laughing when you think that "Filipino Time" actually means being late. The challenge with our modern culture is to actually kill this notion and have everyone start on time.

I remembered posting a meeting announcement recently for residents where I live. In big bold letters, I wrote the phrase - "We'll start on time." - at the bottom. I posted the announcement six days before the date and visible enough because it's right in front of the elevator doors. I started on time without waiting for other people to come in. We started on the dot. Late residents probably didn't like what I did but the five of those who came early appreciated that I took my words seriously. Everyone's time is valuable. You set a time - you mean it.

To help our nation BE ON TIME, I posted the link where everyone can sync their watches with the World Time Server. I guess this is the start to make Filipino Time means ON TIME.

Jesus said, "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37)

Imagine that.

WORLD TIME SERVER - click here to see what time it is REALLY in Manila.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

Can someone help me with Nearbytweets.com?

I don't know what's going on but this has got to be fixed. Nearby Tweets is a place where you can connect from anyone near where you live. However, I don't know what's going on with my account after signing in because its not giving me the results that I want. However, I'm almost sure there's a browser problem because I used my other computer (PC) and it worked fine there. I'm using a Mac here and Mozilla Firefox v. 3.6.3 to browse the site. It's just giving me this "refreshing tweets" sign and it's not doing anything.

I hope someone can give me answers fast because it's a great application but it's not working on my 'top.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

14th Congress shackles Freedom of Information Bill (HB 3732)

Because of the House's failure to ratify the bill, the credibility of Nograles and the 14th Congress was effectively buried, said Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism executive director Malou Mangahas.

via www9.gmanews.tv

It's ironic that the very people who were supposed to protect its citizens couldn't even pass a simple measure that will ensure that every Juan and Maria will get access to right, accurate, and unadulterated information when they need it as they need it. When they did their sine die or closing of the congress, didn't they think that they would need the help of this bill in the future? It's information that you and I need and this will help everyone.

It's ironic that House Bill 3732 had 180 sponsors (congressmen) when it was tabled in the congress halls. When it was time to ratify it only 128 showed up. What happened to the fifty-two other congressmen who were supposed to ratify the bill. Did they get bribed? Did Malacañang offered another deal before the president steps down this month? Whatever happened, it can only be concluded that our congressmen are proving the world right that Filipinos don't know how to vote their congressmen and we're just being toyed by them.

The Senate passed it's own measure four months ago with Senate Bill 3308. Until then, we will just have to wait.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Facebook facing privacy crisis?

The biggest message we have heard recently is that people want easier control over their information," Zuckerberg said. "Simply put, many of you thought our controls were too complex.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

You may not know it but Facebook is violating your privacy. No, they're not selling your information but they "missed the mark" by not making their interface controls simple enough for people to set their privacy controls better. The 26-year-old CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, admitted with these flaws and they'll be launching simpler control features soon. That's a relief because I'm sure majority of the 400 Million Facebook users don't even know that their names, faces, and status appear in places you don't even want it to show.

Better late than never.

Posted via web from Everything Customers

Bishop views 'Born Again' a sin

Marquez noted that Nantes’ death was sudden and unexpected and there was no way for the Church to determine his repentance from his being a “born again Christian” and a “Freemason.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

Is this the official statement of the Roman Catholic faith or just the bishop's? I was saddened how the bishop of Lucena, Quezon termed - in effect - that being an Evangelical Christian (born again) is a sin. I'm also in disbelief how Bishop Marquez is so insensitive to the families and the bereaved of the late Governor Rafael Nantes. If the priests are the equivalent of the Apostle Peter, and each one aims to be like Jesus - I'm just sad that this church head is going the opposite direction.

"There is no politics in the decision of the Church. I just implemented the Church laws," he said. Bishop Marquez, there's no such thing as Church laws - the church embodies Jesus and Jesus wouldn't refer to a book and say, "I wouldn't be compassionate to this one because he's a sinner." How can you invite and promote change in society if all you can think of are the "clean" people going to your church? Jesus was with the despised tax collectors, the prostitutes, etc. He did it because he was reaching out and wanting them to see a better life - you Bishop Marquez just did the opposite thing. It's a shame we're better off following laws than following and doing the example Jesus did.

You may say there's no politics involved in your decision but you're out to please man (Vatican) - that's politics.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Venus Williams' racy outfit in French Open

via sports.yahoo.com

Edgy? Yes. Appropriate? Could be. Necessary? No. Perhaps she's going with the theme "French" but as much as this outfit is futuristic in all sense, it's distracting and it gives her, as a person, a different meaning. She's an athlete, not a fashion model. This is a sporting ground not a runway. Bad Venus. Bad.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

NOW READING: The Dip by Seth Godin

via amazon.com

You can never go wrong reading Seth Godin's books. It's small, handy, and yes - insightful. I held the book at a popular bookstore in Bonifacio Global City and started chomping on it like there's no tomorrow. Unfortunately, I couldn't finish it because it's not right reading it without actually buying it. "What really sets superstars apart from everyone else is the ability to escape dead ends quickly, while staying focused and motivated when it really counts." - there are those options we can do in life but there's only one thing that we should be doing in life. This is really intriguing and I can't wait to go back and...er... buy the book. It's Php550 and it's worth being in my virtual shelf. Yep, I'm praying for one. Read on.

Posted via web from Born 1973

The Dip by Seth Godin

Ernie really comes up with some winners here: Dips, Dead Ends, Joyrides, Lotteries, and Quests � iHack, therefore iBlog.

Here's a taste:

Joyrides are things you do just for the fun of it, without caring if you’re getting anywhere. Seth himself said (roughly) that “if you play the flute just because you enjoy it, not because you’re trying to make a living as a flautist, then The Dip doesn’t matter.” It is worth noting that for some people college is Joyride, not a Dip!

Lotteries are a particularly seductive variant of Dead End that looks like a Dip, in that we periodically see people who do make it out into the Good Life.  Unlike a Dip, though, there is nothing we can do to ensure we make it through to the other side; we are at the mercy of external forces. Thus, even thought there is a non-zero chance we might win the Lottery, for most of us it really is a Dead End, and a complete waste of our potential for greatness. This is particularly true for Talent- (rather than Skill-) based disciplines, where the Lottery took place before we were born.

Quests, on the other hand, are Dips that look like Dead Ends. Seth encourages us to pursue Dips where we can make measurable progress towards a well-defined goal. However, he admits that this doesn’t apply to things like cutting-edge scientific research, where there there are no guarantees or guidelines; fortunately, he says people like that won’t be discouraged by anything he says in his book.  :-)

However, I think he overstates the case when he says Quests (like Crick & Watson’s search for DNA) don’t have measurable progress.  They do, but it is a matter of personal growth and accumulated wisdom, not the usual business metrics.  Even though we may not reach what we thought we were aiming for, a worthy Quest enobles us and ends up benefiting humanity.

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via sethgodin.typepad.com

Posted via web from Bad Media

Willie: Resignation, Wowowee, and playing god?

It is no secret that the program "Wowowee," for almost five and a half years, has been the core of my existence. The program gives me a sense of purpose because I make people happy and I give them hope that, despite their difficulties, they can make things happen for themselves.

via pep.ph

Wowowee host, Willie Revillame, is seen to be exiting the popular noontime show of network giant, ABS-CBN. It will be remembered that the host put ABS-CBN in the spot by asking the management to choose between a radio entertainment host and him. The sadder part though is not his exit but his thought that he could play god to the people joining the show by giving "them hope." I wonder what person like this think by giving less privileged citizens of this nation money and making people rely on them instead of filling people with value like dignity, respect, and honor? Money will indeed blind you and it's sad that he already professed that his life revolving on a temporal matter instead of something that will give him more in life - say, The Bible. Move on, Mr. Revillame. There's more to life than material things and money. I hope you will be able to see joy beyond the money you enjoy.

Posted via web from Bad Media

Congress delays proclamation to June 30

Speaker Prospero Nograles has moved back the proclamation timetable by more than three weeks, from June 4 to June 30

via philstar.com

Not proclaiming president-elect Aquino earlier than expected will push back any plans a president can do to form a new government that still has to transition from the outgoing one. What is GMA doing? This is not right and it defeats the purpose of even having an automated polls that makes everything faster. Why make it hard for the incoming president? Why make it difficult for the incoming government? Is something being cooked? This just brings more questions about Pres. Arroyo's government.

Posted via web from Born 1973

Congress delays proclamation to June 30

Speaker Prospero Nograles has moved back the proclamation timetable by more than three weeks, from June 4 to June 30

via philstar.com

Not proclaiming president-elect Aquino earlier than expected will push back any plans a president can do to form a new government that still has to transition from the outgoing one. What is GMA doing? This is not right and it defeats the purpose of even having an automated polls that makes everything faster. Why make it hard for the incoming president? Why make it difficult for the incoming government? Is something being cooked? This just brings more questions about Pres. Arroyo's government.

Posted via web from Born 1973

Are we letting Sen. Villar off the hook?

Enrile is actually open to a reconciliation with Villar. “It’s time to heal,” he has said.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

Election's over and I think the senators think the drama is over. And what happens to the hard-earned tax money of the Filipinos? I'm talking about the C5 road project that has red flags tagged all over it. The adjustment to the project is irrational, illogical, and the bad part is our tax money is involved to benefit Sen. Villar's real estate projects in Parañaque and Las Piñas.

When people say, "It's time to heal?" What do they mean by it? Was it Sen. Enrile's money that was used in this case? Wasn't it our money that is being poured into this waste? If there's someone who should be paying his dues to make sure he's not going to be kicked out of the senate halls, it is Sen. Villar.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Do we have a minority president?

With 109 members in the House and about a dozen more likely to be added after the winners of the party-list votes have been proclaimed, Suarez said the Lakas-Kampi-CMD coalition could remain dominant with an ability to impeach the President to counter the Chief Executive’s power over pork barrel releases.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

With a lot of Arroyo allies in congress, are we seeing a minority president coming on board on June 30th? This is a scary thing to see cause as it is right now, president-elect Aquino seems to be waging a war already with the incumbent president who just got elected as a member of congress who has the potential to be the House Speaker. She wields more than 100 plus house representatives while Aquino's liege only has fifty congressmen to speak of. I just hope and pray that we will not have a divided congress, otherwise, the people will eventually be the loser. For more of the story, click on the newsinfo.inquirer.net link above.

Posted via web from Born 1973

Did Facebook violate you?

via edition.cnn.com

Did you notice someone commenting on your post who is a complete stranger and you wondered how they got hold of your Facebook account? That is what a growing number of Facebook users have been up in arms about. If you read the CNN article, you will understand take a snap shot of how important your privacy is. The statusphere has 400 million users and so many are against what Facebook is doing. Now is privacy is your concern? Yes, you may get new friends here and there but in a world where people hide their true identities, you can never be sure how protected you are when fraud happens because of personal matters that is made public because of this "flaw" in the programming of the said social media.

Posted via web from Everything Customers

Why romanticize what Cory did?

Why romanticize Cory? I pray that we don't pin our hopes on something that God gave us a long time ago. Cory was a great person and she is blessed but why are we so worried about filling her shoes when we should be thinking how we can improve ourselves. If there's something Cory could do that we should improve on is sticking to God's word and making sure this is lived out. And then there's grace. God is faithful to give something we don't have and if it is lacking in skills, patience, talent, and perseverance then we should ask for it. Let's not fill Cory's shoes. Let's fill our own shoes so we can lead our lives and then our family. This piece was picked up here at the Philippine Daily Inquirer today, May 16, 2010 (Sunday).

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33-34

". . .like the Sidonians, unsuspecting and secure. And since their land lacked nothing, they were prosperous. . ." Judges 18:7

Posted via email from Born 1973

Lakas support of Villar's party confirmed?

At least 107 of Lakas-Kampi-CMD’s 169 congressional candidates won in the May 10 elections. But the party is confident of getting the support of more than 20 lawmakers from other mainstream parties such as the Nationalist People’s Coalition and Nacionalista Party, as well as party-list groups.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

Does this statement picked up from the Inquirer's story (May 16) today just confirms the collusion happening between Arroyo and erstwhile presidential candidate Sen. Manny Villar? It seems so. The administration party is mustering enough votes to catapult Pres. Arroyo as speaker of the house. And if you read the story further (click newsinfo.inquirer.net link above), you will see that party vice president for membership, Prospero Pichay, is "confident" to get the support of Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC) and Sen. Villar's Nacionalista Party (NP). Should we be wary? The campaign doesn't stop here. Let's call our congressmen and get more explanation out of this declaration made by Lakas-Kampi-CMD.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

May 10 Philippines Election (in pictures) - CNN iReport

via ireport.com

My wife, my co-worker, and I went to the polling place early to make sure we avoid monstrous lines. I was very excited to see the Precinct Count Optical Scan or PCOS machine and how to fill up the ballot. Voting started pass 7:10 AM and I was impressed by the order the teachers and volunteers implemented to make sure voting is as easy and pain-free as possible. After I voted these are my observations:

Precinct numbers changed
I was assigned precinct number 0481-A when I registered in January 2009 but "accidentally" I found my name in another precinct (0454-A). This will be a horrible experience for voters who do not even know their precinct location.

Ballot shading area
The shading area is no bigger than 2mm x 3mm. And it was hard for me to train my felt tip marker and contain the shading within the area.

No privacy
The classroom tables were small and cramped and I could hardly fit myself (185lbs 5'8") with the ballot. It was tough voting and being careful in shading the tiny oval shaped area. Preferrably, the voting area should be arms length wide and option to stand.

Uncertainties
I don't know how sensitive the ballot was so thinking about it was an additional stress but I think that's okay. I was sweating and I was afraid I could ruin the ballot just by moistening it.

Overall, I enjoyed the experience and I can't wait to see the result later. After voting, I now leave everything up to God. God bless the Philippines.

Posted via web from Born 1973

If Noynoy gets elected: What role would Chiz play?

via youtube.com

After knowing what Noynoy plans to do if he wins the election, I wonder what role Chiz will play if Mayor Jejomar Binay wins the Vice Presidential spot. Does he know what will happen if an Aquino-Binay administration becomes a reality? I feel that if Binay wins, he will put Noynoy to the corner and compromise him and his administration.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Aquino: I will share 80% of my powers with Roxas

A party insider said the new offer of power-sharing was Aquino’s way of appeasing his running mate, who was surprised at the offer he had made to Binay.

via manilastandardtoday.com

As if the news that Aquino will share 80% of his powers with Mar is not bad enough, out comes this news that cracks are showing between the much vaunted team tandem of Noynoy and Mar.

Aquino will share most of his powers as president to Mar making it a first in any politics. If that was an irresponsible statement, then it would only mean that this is a preview of what Noynoy can say during his term, which will be refuted by his cabinet - especially his powerful VP.

The National election is a day away and Noynoy-Mar voters don't know about this. They wouldn't know that they've been had should this happen because they're hoping for a leader that turned out to be a figurine, a statue, a front. (To read the article in full, click on manilastandardtoday.com link above.)

Posted via web from Bad Politics

What?!! Noynoy said this?

I am sharing 50 percent to 80 percent of the job (of the presidency) with my one and only partner Mar Roxas, and I am offering him not just one, but several portfolios in an oversight capacity.

via tribuneonline.org

I can't believe Noynoy Aquino is already saying that he will share fifty to eighty percent of his presidential power once elected. What kind of presidency would we have? What's left of the twenty percent of his duties? The parties? The state dinners? The laborious detail of signing documents (laws)? Pardon my statement but we would be a fool to vote for a president who is not only delegating power but have plans to actually hand it over to Sen. Mar Roxas.

What if Binay wins? Will he share? God forbid. That's so irresponsible. Read more by clicking the link of tribuneonline.org.

Posted via web from Born 1973

Who are not my senators and why

There are candidates and re-electionists I feel should not even be considered in this coming fifteenth congress. These are:

1. Bong Revilla, Ramon Bautista Jr. - You read that right. He recently changed his last name to, perhaps, give him that name recognition edge on the ballot. But what is a name recognition when you can't even pass a bill in the senate? See his un-accomplishments.
2. Lapid, Manuel 'Lito' - His bio reads, "His proven track record as a champion of the masses"  , it makes you wonder what track record they speak of. They forget that this actor-senator is a contemporary of Pres. Joseph Estrada in the movies, which makes him the "champion of the masses." Look at his accomplishment and see if our tax money is worth his time in that legislative floor.
3. De Venecia, Joey - He is part of the ZTE scandal and continues to lie that he meant to expose the anomalies of the ZTE-Abalos-Arroyo scandal whereas he exposed it because he lost the bid. You ask me, he has vendetta written all over his campaign.
4. Lim, Danilo and Ariel Querubin - I question their eligibility. The Senate is a law body and I don't see the Sen. Raffy Biazon in them. The outgoing senator has done his homework and I just don't see what they will be doing on the floor. What would make them fight for my children's cause if the very first thing they embodied was rebellion? They went against the administration but that does not make them my leader in the senate.
5. Satur Ocampo and Lisa Maza - Progressive militant candidates that coalesced with the Bongbong Marcos in the Villar senate line up. What's up with that? They're a sell-out. They don't stand up for they are fighting for. Boo.

The other senatorial candidates did not make my list because they're not known and I don't feel that they stand for something. If you want to read who I will vote for and would be planning to vote for, click here.

Posted via email from Born 1973

How would you vote? Here are my senators.

These are my candidates and would-be candidates in the national election:

Because of accomplishments:
1. Ralph Recto - no one love his eVAT but it helped the nation avoid recession.
2. Sen. Johnny Enrile - if it weren't for him, mobile phone companies wouldn't be giving users longer talk time and phone usage values.
3. Serge Osmeña - Should I say more? Read here his accomplishments: http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/sosmena_bio.asp
4. Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago - My president before; brilliant woman; a statesman and we need her wisdom. These are her accomplishments
5. Tito Sotto III - You might I'm joining the showbiz bandwagon but when you ask me what politician is effective in dealing with drugs, Sen. Tito Sotto III comes to mind. His accomplishments.

Because we need them
1. Ruffy Biazon - His character, impeccable; His work is admirable
2. Riza Honitveros - She opens her mouth and she makes sense.
3. Alex Lacson - Authored a book; he embodies my dreams for a progressive and righteous living Filipino.
4. Nereus Acosta - A come-backing politician (congressman) of Bukidnon and will represent the teachers and the improvement of our education (at least that's what his political ads say of him). A well respected academician. His profile.

Candidates I'm still praying for - I need three more to complete my senate list:
1. Sonia Roco - Does being the wife of a great statesman enough for you to be on the senate floor?
2. Jinggoy Estrada - I observed his work and when he speaks, he makes sense. His bio reads, "he introduced 289 bills and resolutions, two hundred forty-nine (249) of which were primarily authored by him. He took law at the Lyceum University while serving as Vice Mayor back then. He deserves a second look. We'll see. His work.
3. Kata Inocencio - I know she's an Evangelical Christian like me but I'm still assessing whether she'll be effective in the senate. I'm 80% convinced she's worth given a chance. Her short bio says she will be focusing her strength in passing laws that will protect women and children further. An attention that should never wane. Her biography.
4. Bongbong Marcos Jr. - Is he an effective politician much like his dad? Is he effective in his work? I read his accomplishments and he seems to focus in making the Philippines a proud nation in the eyes of the world. Let his work/s speak about it.
5. Adel Tamano - Promising at best but he gained prominence by being the spokesperson of the United Opposition, which was headed by VP Candidate Binay. He belongs to another team, Villar-Legarda. His youth may prove to be his strength and he may be given that chance. We'll see. His biography. 
6. Pia Cayetano - Synonymous to triathlon races and biking but I never heard of her accomplishments until I got to read her senate bio. I almost placed her in the "People that should not be back in the senate" list because she seemed to be doing more outdoor activities than staying put in the senate floor doing the work of a senator. I'll be praying if she should be in my list of twelve senators. Her work.
7. Gwendolyn Pimental - Daughter of senate's old man, Nene Pimentel. She took law and public administration courses. It makes you wonder if Sen. Pimentel was really prepping her to replace him during this time. She seems capable and reading her biography, she will be specializing in uplifting children's welfare.
8. Franklin Drilon - The former Senate President of the 12th Congress that was touted to be the action senate that passed a lot of bills under his watch. Praised by many fellow senators. I may need another elder statesman in the list. We'll see. His biography.
9. Yasmin Busrao Lao - Of the three muslim candidates I read, she is the one that makes more sense. She's an accomplished public servant and she will champion the cause of our brothers in Mindanao. Her biography.

Posted via email from Born 1973

Fully Booked overlooked this one

I called the attention of one store clerk at Fully Booked in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). I said that there's a product that should not be in a place where kids are.

He followed me and led him to a section where this book, "Tweak" by Nic Sheff rests. It's by the children's books where my kid hangs out with his nannie every time we visit the place.

"It's a Young Adults book, sir." the clerk politely answered.

The well-meaning clerk probably answered me according to what his superiors ordered him to do and he stacked it himself but this is where Fully Booked erred big time. The whole area is for kids and majority of the people visiting the place are kids and their parents. If the clerk answered me that the books is geared towards parents, I would've shut up but since the book was geared towards young adults then this critically claimed book has no business being in the children's section.

This is where context is important and Fully Booked staff should apply that rule - all the time.

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Posted via email from Everything Customers

Jollibee's New Sausage & Egg Pandesal

Warning: This review may be a spoiler. Do not read if you want to try the new product yourself. This product was bought via Drive-thru at Jollibee C-5 at a Shell Gas Station before the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig on-ramp. Picture was take using a Nokia 3110c Blue phone.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Everything Customers