Typhoon Glenda and Preparedness

I find it a little strange how people can celebrate escalating winds and storm signals just to have work suspended or canceled. I appreciate holiday from work and would likely do cartwheels every time I get some bit of separation from it, but not at the cost of dangerous weather forecasts since a degree of risk, whether to us or other people, is always attached to it. PAGASA is always scrutinized being a work in progress (aren’t we all) but shouldn’t we all be silently praying that the storm changes direction and never hit any part of the country? Or do we just find satisfaction in proving someone wrong?

PAGASA reports that Typhoon Glenda as of 12pm today is at 40km northeast of Catarman, Northern Samar.

PAGASA advised the public to prepare and take pre-cautionary measures.

PAGASA urges public to constantly monitor weather updates.

PASAGA expects typhoon Glenda to intensify further with likelihood to raise storm signals to Signal #3.

Check Typhoon Preparedness Advisory from time to time.

Below are some practical preparedness tips we sometimes overlook, time to double check:

Keep all your mobile phones, laptops, and other communication means fully charged.

Disseminate information on weather and warning advisory to your family members, friends and colleagues. Check on them and ask them to go home already soonest possible time.

Store an adequate supply of food and clean water. Prepare food that need not be cooked.

Keep flashlights, candles and battery-powered radios within easy reach.

Always keep yourself updated with the latest weather report.

Should you need to evacuate, bring clothes, first aid kit, candles/flashlight, battery-powered radio, food, water, among others.

Typhoon Glenda is expected to hit Metro Manila this afternoon.

[Read more…]

Mayweather vs. Canelo Alvarez on SKY Cable HD

Too many Alvarez boxers that this fight is named Mayweather vs. Canelo instead of the latter’s last name.  Supposedly the highest purse fight in boxing history with $41.5 cool million as his minimum guarantee to just step inside the ring.

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, 23, will be facing 36-year-old Floyd Mayweather Jr.  this coming Sunday (Manila time) –both fighters with undefeated record.  Mayweather maintains that he is still at the peak of his game and continues to be his usual confident arrogant self.

Canelo is apparently the Spanish translation to the boxer’s ginger hair.  No mistake that he is also a world champ even if Mayweather dismisses the fact saying there are just too many belts in the field now and these young bloods easily get one compared to the time veterans really have to earn it the long hard way.

Catch the Mayweather vs. Canelo fight this weekend.  SKY Cable is giving this PPV fight FREE and in HIGH DEFINITION via SKYcable FREE VIEW HD to all subscribers with the HD box.  The event will air this Sunday, Sept 15.  Live telecast begins at 9AM.

 

For those SKY Cable subscribers who do not have the HD Digibox, other than me suggesting you get one to change your life and up your viewing experience, you can still catch this real-time, as it happens, via LIVESTREAMING on iWantv also at 9AM.

  [Read more…]

Classes in All Levels and Government Offices Suspended Tuesday August 7, 2012 and TIPS for EMERGENCY

Classes in ALL levels (yes, including college) suspended. Government offices suspended work except those who provide basic services during calamities like this.  Our company also suspended work due to severe weather conditions and massive flooding.

Weather and Flood Updates:

As per PAGASA observed data (Science Garden:222.6 mm in 9hrs; Port Area:154 mm in 9 hrs)

During the passage of Ondoy: PAGASA Science Garden station(QC) measured 341 mm of rainfall in just a span of 6 hrs

Red warning signal was issued at 4:30 for Metro Manila. It means more than 30mm of rain in the next 2hours. Expect heavy flooding in low lying areas, response should be evacuation.

As of 1:00 AM, Marikina River water level is 17 meters now on 3rd alert. Force evacuation is implemented. #mmda

As of 6:50am, highway in Tarlac passable.

Streets near Quezon City Hall not passable.

Flood in North Fairview, waist deep.

Raining heavily again in San Juan.

Marikina River, 3rd Alarm

La Mesa Dam water continues to rise.

Obando, Bulacan FLOODED for more than 1 week

As of 7:08 AM, August 7, 2012, Tuesday:

8 Gate in Manggahan Floodway, OPENED

Some baranggay in BF Homes FLOODED, NECK-DEEP

18 Baranggays in Cavite, FLOODED

CAMANAVA area, WAIST DEEP FLOOD

Maceda and Tayuman in Manila, not passable.

Mandalay and Tumana, Forced evacuation.

Balintawak Exit, not passable.

San Mateo River, 2nd Alarm.  Forced evacuation.

Pampanga, Pangasinan, Laguna, Cavite, Tarlac, Batangas, NO classes in ALL LEVELS (including COLLEGE)

FLOOD around Manila City Hall, KNEE-DEEP

As of 7:20 AM

Twitter Updates: DOLE Sec. Rosalina Baldoz: Work in PRIVATE offices in NCR are suspended.

As of 7:40 AM

DOLE Sec. Baldoz CONFIRMS on LIVE interview on UKG that she has NO AUTHORITY to SUSPEND WORK in private offices and companies.  Private companies still has the DISCRETION / DECISION on suspension.

UKG has announcement billboard for work suspension in private companies (but to be verified by employees on their own through a number given).  For your own safety, just miss work today whether there’s suspension or not.

As of 10 AM

Malacanang has announced suspension of work in private companies in NCR.

TIPS:  START PACKING AN EMERGENCY BAG

SOME SURVIVAL TIPS: 

1. Stock on food at home, car, office and in your bag.  No one knows how long this climate will last or when a state of emergency happens.  It’s always better to be armed with necessary stocks at home like:

Food

Bread -gives the carbo load you need in replacement of rice.  Rice still has to be cooked.

Biscuits/cookies –alternative to bread, sugar helps relieve pangs of hunger

Candies –the sugar will help ease acidity in case there are more eminent task at hand than eating

Canned goods (like corned beef, Vienna sausage, tuna, pork and beans, chili con carne, corn) –not easily perishable and ready to eat

Instant Noodles –are also ready to eat although it’s best enjoyed cooked.  Snack on the noodles like crackers.

Bottled water

Carbonated drinks/Coffee

Items

Flashlight and Batteries

Thick Blanket/Comforters/Mattress Covers/Pillows

Jacket/Sweaters/Socks/Caps/Rain Boots

Radio and Batteries

Umbrella/Tents/Mono Block Chairs

Towels

Knife, Candles, Matches, Plastic Wares, Plastic Utensils, Napkins, Plastic Bags

Empty plastic bottles

Lifesavers/Old Tires/Styrofoam

Big Pails

Slippers

Antiseptic/First Aid Kits/Medicine bags

**If possible, keep all items in one area or fit everything in one “EMERGENCY BAG,” so it’s easy to locate and grab.

2. Unplug all appliances (particularly on the first floor) and keep a watchful eye on refrigerator and electricity outlets.

3. Always have extra cash handy.  ATMs might not be available or accessible.

4. Improvised flotation device can be made out of empty Coke/Pepsi/C2/Juice/Water plastic bottles.  Just securely tie the plastic bottles together (4-10) and it can work as a flotation device.

5. If possible, CHARGE all equipment necessary, emergency light, mobile phones (for communication), etc. 

EMERGENCY HOTLINE NUMBERS TO CALL:

ABS-CBN Hotline 0928-5078592

[Read more…]

Justin Bieber Concert in Manila on May 11, 2011.

 

 

Bieber fans are probably all psyched up with the fact that their beloved Justin Bieber or “JB” is having a concert in Manila on May 10, 2011.  Good thing that May 10, 2011 is not an election day this year.  Justin Bieber fans definitely vote to go to the concert whether rain or shine.

 

 

Smart Telecommunications is producing the Justin Bieber concert in partnership with Music Management International and AEDI.  The Justin Bieber Manila Concert will be held at SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds.

 

 

Justin was supposed to be linked to a Filipina-American singer Jasmine Villegas but E! News recently showed a photo of Justine Bieber steamy with Selena Gomez in Cabo. 

 

 

Poreotix, which is America’s Best Dance Crew, is also going to perform during the Justin Bieber Manila Concert.

 

Justin Bieber Concert in Manila

May 10, 2011 (Tuesday)

Venue: SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds

 

Ticket Price:

 

Note:

*VIP section is now closed for reservation

*Gold-A section is now available at all TicketWorld outlets.

 

Gold-A   P 5, 268 – Reserved Seating

Gold-B   P 5, 268 – Free Seating (First Come First Served)

Silver      P 3,688  – Standing Only

Bronze   P 2, 107 – Standing Only

General Admission P 790   – Standing Only

 

 

 

 

Are you one of the Justin Bieber fans?  I cannot wait to see that hair up close.

 

Pacquiao vs Margarito on November 14, 2010

 

 

Will another one bite the dust?

 

Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao steps again in the ring on November 14th, Manila Time, to face another opponent in the face of Antonio Margarito.  They will plow it out for a vacant WBC (World Boxing Council) Jr. Middleweight Title that, to some critics, is a fictitious weight class.

 

 

Filipinos would like to believe that this would be another easy win for Pacquiao since he is the best pound for pound fighter in the world and Antonio Margarito is coming off a 1-year suspension for getting caught trying to use illegal hand wraps.  If Pacquiao does win, it will be a new title in his eight weight class.

 

 

But don’t write off Margarito just yet.  Margarito’s camp says that his height, reach and size will be the difference.  He better know how to use them though because with Pacquiao’s speed, he doesn’t have enough time to strategize deliberately in the ring.  He won’t be able to see what hit him.

 

And this will be another walk in the park for the boxing champ, Manny Pacquiao.  I really hope that Margarito puts up a great fight against Pacquiao to give the boxing fans their money’s worth.  Otherwise, it’s just a win-win scenario for both fighters with huge purses in their pockets while the biggest loser is… the fans.  Pac, pac, pac!

 

 

Catch the Manny Pacquiao versus Antonio Margarito fight in FULL HIGH DEFINITION!

 

 

WORLD SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP:

PACQUIAO vs MARGARITO

in FULL HIGH DEFINITION

November 14, 2010, SUNDAY, 8AM

 

LIVE, UNINTERRUPTED and in TRUE HIGH DEFINITION

on SKYCABLE HD

 

 

Boxing fans are in for a treat as SKYCABLE HD, the country’s first high definition cable TV service, brings the last big fight of 2010 in TRUE HIGH DEFINITION.

On November 14, live from Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, seven-division world champion and the reigning WBO welterweight champion Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao will defend his title against “The Express Train” Antonio Margarito Montiel.

Be on a ringside seat right in the comforts of your home as SKYCABLE HD brings the clash of these titan pugilists LIVE and commercial-free in true HIGH DEFINITION!  Catch all the boxing action in breathtaking detail, panoramic viewing and clear digital sound.

 

It’s the finest way to watch sports.

 

Call SKY Cable at 631 0000 for more details.

 

 

Related Entries:

 

Another One Bites the Dust- Pacquiao Wins Over Miguel Cotto via TKO

Manny Pacquiao Faces Miguel Cotto in the Ring

Pacquiao Meets Cotto or Mosley?

The Real Deal: Pacman Signs with ABS-CBN

July 6 Marked the 1st Round Between Ateneo and DLSU

Unfinished Business: Pacquiao v. Marquez

Manila Ice and the Philippine Heat

It’s a Match: Pacquiao – Hatton

Pacquiao Floored Hatton

Shane Mosley Wants To Meet Pacman in the Ring

Floyd Mayweather Injured

Pacquiao – Cotto Face Off Brewing

 

 

Typhoon MEGI Expected to Hit Philippines Tonight

 

As of the PAGASA’s Press Conference at 530PM today, October 15, 2010:

Typhoon MEGI is expected to enter Philippines’ area of responsibility tonight.

 

Typhoon MEGI will reach the Extreme Northern Luzon by Monday afternoon.   Landfall expected around the same time.

 

Typhoon MEGI has maximum winds of 120 kph with gusts of 150 kph.

PAGASA advised the PUBLIC to prepare and take pre-cautionary measures.

PAGASA urges public to constantly monitor weather updates.

PASAGA expects typhoon MEGI to intensity further.

For weather updates: http://www.twitter.com/dost_pagasa

For the latest news: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com

Some safety/survival tips:

 

1. Stock on food at home, car, office and in your bag.  No one knows how long this climate will last or when a state of emergency happens.  It’s always better to be armed with necessary stocks at home like:

 

Food

Bread -gives the carbo load you need in replacement of rice.  Rice still has to be cooked.

Biscuits/cookies –alternative to bread, sugar helps relieve pangs of hunger

Candies –the sugar will help ease acidity in case there are more eminent task at hand than eating

Canned goods (like corned beef, Vienna sausage, tuna, pork and beans, chili con carne, corn) –not easily perishable and ready to eat

Instant Noodles –are also ready to eat although it’s best enjoyed cooked.  Snack on the noodles like crackers.

Bottled water

Carbonated drinks/Coffee

Items

Flashlight and Batteries

Thick Blanket/Comforters/Mattress Covers/Pillows

Jacket/Sweaters/Socks/Caps/Rain Boots

Radio and Batteries

Umbrella/Tents/Mono Block Chairs

Towels

Knife, Candles, Matches, Plastic Wares, Plastic Utensils, Napkins, Plastic Bags

Empty plastic bottles

Lifesavers/Old Tires/Styrofoam

Big Pails

Slippers

Antiseptic/First Aid Kits/Medicine bags

**If possible, keep all items in one area or fit everything in one “EMERGENCY BAG,” so it’s easy to locate and grab.

2. Unplug all appliances (particularly on the first floor) and keep a watchful eye on refrigerator and electricity outlets.

3. Always have extra cash handy.  ATMs might not be available or accessible.

4. Improvised flotation device can be made out of empty Coke/Pepsi/C2/Juice/Water plastic bottles.  Just securely tie the plastic bottles together (4-10) and it can work as a flotation device.

5. If possible, charge all equipment necessary, emergency light, mobile phones (for communication), etc. 

 

Miss Universe 2010 Winners in Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas

 

 

The Official TOP 15 and TOP 10

 

The OFFICIAL final 15 contestants announced:

  1. Miss Puerto Rico Mariana Paola Vicente (21)
  2. Miss Ukraine Anna Poslavska(23)
  3. Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete (22)
  4. Miss Belgium Cilou Annys (19)
  5. Miss Ireland Rozanna Purcell (20)
  6. Miss South Africa Nicole Flint (22)
  7. Miss France Malika Menard (23)
  8. Miss Australia Jesinta Campbell (19)
  9. Miss Jamaica Yendi Phillipps (24)
  10. Miss Russia Irina Antonenko (18)
  11. Miss Albania Angela Martini (24)
  12. Miss Colombia Natalia Navarro (23)
  13. Miss Guatemala Jessica Scheel (20)
  14. Miss Czech Republic Jitka Valkova (18)
  15. Miss Philippines Venus Raj (22)

 

 

 

-o-

 

 

MISS UNIVERSE 2010 TOP 10

 (LIVE in Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas)

 

Ireland

Albania

Philippines

Jamaica

Mexico

 

Ukraine

Puerto Rico

South Africa

Guatemala

Australia

 

-o-

 

Miss Congeniality – Miss Australia

Miss Photogenic – Miss Thailand

National Costume – Miss Thaliand

 

-o-

 

Miss Universe TOP Five

 

  1. Mexico (pretty Mexicana with so much appeal)
  2. Australia (girl next door beauty)
  3. Jamaica (looks like Jada Pinkett Smith with a sharper feature)
  4. Ukraine (soft beauty like a porcelain doll)
  5. Philippines (ethereal beauty and charm!!!)

 

 

 

Miss Philippines Question:

What is the one big mistake that you did in your life? And what did you do to make it right?

 

Miss Philippines Answer:

Thank you for that wonderful question.  Good evening Las Vegas! 

In my 22 years of existence, I don’t think I have a major major problem done in my life. 

I’m very confident in the love my family has given me.  And I’m so happy to be here!!!

 

 —

 

TOP Five Final Standing

 

4th Runner-up:

Miss Philippines

 

3rd Runner-up:

Miss Ukraine

 

2nd Runner Up:

Miss Australia

 

1st Runner-up:

Miss Jamaica

 

 

Miss Universe 2010 WINNER:

 

Miss Mexico!!!

 

 

Miss Universe 2010 winner is Miss Mexico, Jimena Navarette.

 

 

Congrats Miss Mexico!!!!

and congrats Miss Philippines, Venus Raj!!!! 😉

 

xoxo

 

In the Flesh: Raw and Raring

 

 

Guess who Bubba was training with last Saturday? 😉

 

 

 

He is a Filipino-British actor, host and commercial model that can make hundred of girls flushed with fever just by flashing his bright melting smile.

 

Bubba and Coach Basas gave him a crash course in MMA to get him prepped for his new show.

 

In Action:

 

 

Positioning

Armbar

Superman Punch!!! 🙂

Packing 🙂

Guess who owns those white gloves he used? 😉

 –

 

He’s quite simple and unpretentious.  He was open to learn and eager to practice.  Without gripes about taking a break, the heat or an aching muscle.  No star complexities at all –something that would definitely make you adore him more… even off cam. 

 

 

Derek Ramsay Training Album

 

 

 

National Election Results

 

National Election Results as of May 11, 2010 11:35 AM:

 

Presidential Candidates:

 

1AQUINO, Benigno Simeon III C.12,688,024
2ESTRADA EJERCITO, Joseph M.8,084,861
3VILLAR, Manuel Jr B.4,525,913
4TEODORO, Gilberto Jr. C.3,367,778
5VILLANUEVA, Eduardo C.951,622
6GORDON, Richard J.440,626

 

*Villar concedes to Aquino (11AM)

*Presidential candidate De Los Reyes concedes to Aquino and calls for their camp to provide a more defined platform

*Sen. Gordon concedes to Sen. Aquino (2:40 PM)

Dick Gordon’s Post-Election Statement

I would like to congratulate Sen. Aquino for his spectacular victory. I call upon this nation to unite and support him.

I would like to thank everyone who supported me especially my volunteers and those who gave up their limited resources as a manifestation of trust in my brand of leadership and track record.

I ran a very truthful, straightforward and candid campaign and thought we could run on the basis of our platform, track record and volunteerism.

I would like to congratulate all the winners and pray that they serve our country well.

We accept the will of the people.

Today, we have a victory for democracy with the successful exercise of our first nationwide automated election despite naysayers and doubters.

The fight for this country goes beyond this day. Let us forge on in building a Bagumbayan foe our people.

*Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro concedes presidential race (2:55 PM)

-Gibo will go private after this race.  He will continue civic duties but is no longer interested to hold a government position.

*4 more candidates (Jamby Madrigal, Nick Perlas, Bro. Eddie Villanueva, Former President Joseph Estrada -who’s filing a protest regarding trending of the votes) have not yet conceded. 

As of 5:15 PM, Bangon Presidential Bet, Bro. Eddie Villanueva congratulates Sen. Aquino on apparent victory.  Claims this might be the last time he will run.

*Former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada will not contest the Presidential result but will not concede the Presidential race at this time.  If his lawyer contests the result and protest before the commission, he will supposedly let his lawyer be. 

Vice-President Candidates:

1BINAY, Jejomar C.12,464,331
2ROXAS, Manuel A.11,629,706
3LEGARDA, Loren B.3,426,781
4FERNANDO, Bayani F.872,564
5MANZANO, Eduardo B. 

 

Senatorial Candidates

1BONG REVILLA, Ramon, Jr. B.16,407,143
2ESTRADA, Jinggoy E.16,115,025
3DEFENSOR SANTIAGO, Miriam P.14,747,874
4DRILON, Franklin M.13,490,275
5ENRILE, Juan Ponce -.13,349,517
6CAYETANO, Pilar Juliana S.11,676,882
7MARCOS, Ferdinand, Jr. R.11,293,762
8RECTO, Ralph G.10,536,077
9SOTTO , Vicente III C.10,147,602
10OSMEÑA, Sergio III D.9,865,737
11LAPID, Manuel M.9,253,940
12GUINGONA , Teofisto III D.8,762,785
13HONTIVEROS-BARAQUEL, Ana7,797,410
14BIAZON, Rozzano Rufino B.7,358,332
15DE VENECIA, Jose III P.7,114,594
16REMULLA, Gilbert Cesar C.6,411,373
17LIM, Danilo D.6,255,972
18ROCO, Sonia M. 

 

Your Vote is Your Voice- May 10, 2010 is Special Public (Non-working) Holiday

 

Malacanang has issued Proclamation No. 2020 declaring Monday, May 10, 2010 as a Special Public (Non-Working) Holiday throughout the country to give the people the fullest opportunity to participate in the said elections.

 

 

In this regard, employees who will be assigned to work on this day will be given premium pay in accordance with their company’s existing policies.

 

Locate Your Precinct Number

 

I can’t wait to cast my vote in this upcoming national election.  I’m also excited for first time voters who got to register and will exercise their right to vote on May 10, 2010.

 

 

I wonder how the automated election will go.  I pray that whoever wins the presidency or the LGU seats, at the very least, it was really an honest election… with the right count and no tampering of the actual results.

 

Locate your Precinct number online.  Just click on the link below:

 

http://www.comelec.gov.ph/precinctfinder/precinctfinder.aspx

 

 

PLEASE VOTE! 

 

Glutamax Unveils Its New Endorser in La Greta

 

 

Photo Credit:

http://www.earthlingorgeous.com

http://www.yousaytoo.com 

http://www.carloscpalma.com/

 

Glutamax revealed its new endorser last Wednesday at the Eastwood Central Plaza.  Gretchen Barretto is now the new face of Glutamax, replacing Jinky Oda “Jacqui O.” who the brand originally launched with.  The TV ad campaign was also presented in the same event showing Gretchen taking off make-up, jewelry and pricey dress signifying that she shines without all of that only attributed to one reason… what she referred to as her “hidden wealth” –beautiful glowing skin (“Kutis Mayaman”).  That “hidden wealth” she mentioned is a sharp line to end the ad with, biting yet witty.

 

 

And according to her, what helps her maintain that beautiful white glow is Glutamax.  More of her interview during the event, she shares that she is very happy to be part of the new campaign and be part of the Glutamax family.

 

 

Before the big reveal, the first part of the event was the awarding of “The New Me” Blog Contest.  Jose Paul Legaspi, Healthwell president and CEO, partnered with Nuffnang (www.nuffnang.com), Asia Pacific’s biggest online community network company to stage this blog contest about “personal transformation”, which is part of their global promotional campaign for Glutamax.

 

Learning about the contest from the Nuffnang’s site, I joined with my “The New Me” entry.  Before they announced the winners, a string of wonderful music filled the event venue with Nyoy Volante, Julie Ann Santos (I’m not sure if I got the name right) and popular Filipino violinist Jon Lesaca taking the stage.  A segment of the program also showcased a slideshow of the contest participants flashing their “Before and After” photos in the wide screen.  Mojo and Suzie of Magic 89.9 hosted that evening’s Glutamax event.  Friends from the media were also present.

 

 

The esteemed Glutamax team went on stage and welcomed Gretchen Barretto to their family.  Jon Lesaca went back on stage and serenaded the new endorser at the pleasant request of the latter.

 

 

The night ended with a big buzz when Gretchen supposedly “walked out” of the mini-press conference that was held after the event.  The alleged “walk-out” happened after Gretchen was asked how she feels about her “Maalala Mo Kaya” back-to-back shows being pitted against Claudine’s show in the rival channel.  She vibrantly replied that she was extremely happy and proud that the Barrettos occupy that specific timeslot on Saturdays –implying that there’s more gain than loss for both sisters.  I think the media wasn’t satisfied with the answer and kept prying about how she really feels that made her storm out of the conference apparently with tears in her eyes.

 

—-

 

 

And on a different note, they announced the winners.  Congratulations to:

 

5th Prize: Lizz of http://lizzbuenaventura.com 

http://www.lizzbuenaventura.com/2009/12/new-me.html

4th Prize: Sophie of http://www.beautynomics.com 

http://www.beautynomics.com/blog/2009/12/31/the-new-me/ 

3rd Prize: Jeff of http://www.aspacio.net 

http://www.aspacio.net/2009/12/new-me.html

2nd Prize: http://jonnieanzures.blogspot.com/2010/02/new-me.html 

 

 

 

Until now writing about this, I have butterflies in my stomach remembering the moment they announced the first-prize winner.  I heard Mojo say Jane and say Chua and Sophie cheering and congratulating me… I think in my joy, I even hugged Sophie!  In my mind and heart, I felt like I did hug her (she was beside me) but I’m not really that sure now because everything felt like a blur.  I walked to the stage (shaking) and accepted the prize.  My mind was completely in pieces and when asked the question, I just stuttered my way through the answer –still in disbelief that I won the Mac Book.

 

 

Another highlight of the night for me was my bonding moment with Jed.  Jed is the cute, smart, and sweet son of Jeff and Jen Aspacio who was feeling bad because he thought I left without saying goodbye.  Bubba was so huge that he was covering Jed’s view.  I walked over to a pouting Jed.  I explained that I didn’t leave yet and I would of course say goodbye to him if I left.  I hugged him and said sorry.

 

 

He was quietly pouting for one whole minute… then he suddenly hugged me tight and broke down to tears saying he thought I already left.  After that, we talked about his favorite color and mine, butterfly kisses and his flat whistle and both of us left in a happy, beaming mood.

 

 

Thanks again Nuffnang for holding this contest and Glutamax for picking me as a winner.  I enjoyed writing the piece and I hope the entry truly inspired others take a step towards their own transformation –inside and out.

 

XOXO,

Janey

 

Related Entries:

Nuffnang’s Who’s the Fairest of Them All?

Earthlingorgeous’

Marriage and Beyond’s

Literary Bulimia’s

Yousaytoo’s

Earth Hour Forever?

 

***UPDATE*** Timbaland concert will supposedly start at 930 PM tonight to make way for Earth Hour.

 

It’s the time of the year again when we show Mother Earth that we still care.

 

It’s as simple as the flick of a switch.

 

The lights will go out for one hour on March 27 at 8:30 pm Manila time – wherever you live on planet earth.  It’s called Earth Hour – and it’s our best bet at stopping climate change.

 

 

But instead of just expressing your support tonight, you can show it the whole year by being more environment conscious and joining groups that help save the planet.  Manileños can start with helping revive the Pasig River.

 

 

Ladies Night at Metro Card Club: Last Lady Sitting

 

“Oh, it’s Ladies Night and I’m feeling right.  It’s Ladies Night and what a night! (ooh, what a night)”

 

Yes folks.  It was “Ladies Night” but this all-girls fun didn’t involve drinks or a bar.  Metro Card Club staged an all-female poker tournament for three Thursdays.  I was only able to join last Thursday and I learned same night that it was its last run. 

 

It was difficult to make creative plays early on because:

 

  1. Good or mediocre hands were hard to come by (esp. on a later position).
  2. The more seasoned players were just grinding it.
  3. First-timers were calling any bet on the flop even if they only hit bottom pair.

 

I reached the final table as the second chip lead.  Chip lead was Ms. Tournament-Virgin who eventually lost her stack to Jen.  Jen became the chip lead.  I capitalized on heads-up plays against the short stacks.

 

Image Source: Metro Card Club website

Image Source: Metro Card Club website

 

Four players left.  A good poker friend Trish, Jen and one other.  Two players folded and it’s down to the battle of the blinds between my small blind and Trish’.  I had to raise with my Jack-8 because either it’s a mediocre or good hand that she can push all-in too (which is good for her) or throw her hand away.  I didn’t want to do it against her but I also needed a heads up play and gain some chips because the other two have built their stack.

 

Trish: J? 9c

Jane: Jh 8s

 

She was even ahead pre-flop.

 

Flop: 10s 6d 7c

She was ahead on the flop.

 

Turn: 9?

It was a lucky turn as I hit my straight.  The River didn’t make any difference.

It was down to three players and I changed gears.  Aggressive play all throughout.

When somebody raises all-in on my big blind or small blind, I let go of my blind and fold my trash hands.

On the button, I had Q-10 suited and raised all-in.  Small blind called immediately.  Big blind Jen folded.

I showed my hand.  She slammed her Pocket Jacks on the table with another J –joy.

Flop: Qc 6d 9d

I flopped my queen.  Turn and River didn’t help.  It was down to two players.

First hand I had Jacks and went all-in.  After a long night, Jen called with a shrug.

Image Source: Metro Card Club website

Image Source: Metro Card Club website

Well, the cards fell my way.  A stroke of good luck.

I was really ecstatic about winning a tournament.  The last time I won a tournament was back in 2005?  It was more of the game than the cash prize really, but the additional ka-ching doesn’t hurt.  And yes, I secured myself a seat for the 3-Million Poker Tournament this month.  YEA BABY!  \m/

The Fight is On! Pacquiao versus Clottey. March 13, 2010

 

 

There’s going to be a fight on March 14, 2010 (Manila Time).  Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao will stand at one corner.  The question is, who will stand at the other corner?  Will it be Ghanaian Joshua Clottey  or Floyd Mayweather Jr.?  After weeks of negotiation circus, Top Rank’s Bob Arum finally decided to set the WBO welterweight title fight against Clottey.  The negotiation fizzled out between the two dominant American boxing promotional companies when Mayweather Jr’s camp demanded for a rigorous drug testing procedure –random examination like the Olympics that can be really close to the fight night.  

 

 

The boxing commission only requires urine testing but the stringent drug testing will call for random blood and urine sampling prior to and after the proposed fight.  Team Pacquiao couldn’t agree to the blood testing 30 days before the match concerned that this might affect Pacman’s performance.  Pacquiao filed a lawsuit against Mayweather’s camp last month, claiming several members had defamed him by intimating he uses performance-enhancing drugs.

 

 

The Pacquiao-Mayweather fight was supposed to be one of boxing’s biggest revenue-generating fights.  There’s still time before March to reopen talks but Arum has closed his doors to Mayweather for March, more especially that he feels Mayweather will start the nonsense media talk again about the testing and regulations.

 

 

Pacquiao’s new opponent in Clottey is a strong, aggressive African that beat Zab Judah of the United States for the IBF Welterweight title in August 2008 and lost a split decision to Puerto Rico’s Miguel Cotto last June.

 

Pacquiao vs. Mayweather Coming to a Close?

 

 

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum made a trip to the Philippines to talk to Manny Pacquiao, who broke records of being the only champion with 7 world boxing titles under his belt.  After Pacquiao’s clear welterweight win over Miguel Cotto last November, everyone is slating Floyd Mayweather Jr. as the next in line to face the formidable Filipino boxer.

 

March 13, 2010 is the date they are eyeing.  This can be the biggest boxing event of next year since people have been anticipating this match-up.  Pacquiao is the top pound-for-pound fighter while Mayweather is currently No.2 –although the No.1 position is not new to Mayweather since he was No.1 before he retired in June 2008.

 

 

The public has been clamoring for this fight to happen but according to Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s coach, March 13 is too fast a turnaround.  Remember that Pacquiao suffered a broken eardrum during his duel with Cotto.  Roach wants Pacquiao to be in his best possible shape before he steps again in the ring.  Roach is looking into a May 2010 bout but that will coincide with the election month.  Pacquiao already filed his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) this week to run for Congress.

 

Ticket for the live fight is expected to cost around $2,500 (P117,500) while the cheapest seats at around $500 (P25,000).

 

Will Schaefer and Arum get this deal done and set a fight date before the 2nd half of next year?  The public will have to wait and see.

 

 

 

Another One Bites the Dust: Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao Wins Over Miguel Cotto Via TKO

 

 

The Pacman still has the hand and foot speed and the left big swing to grab another belt –his seventh world title across several weight classes.  He proves once again that he is the best pound for pound fighter of his time.

 

The MGM Grand was packed to the roof, with seats all sold-out; the anticipating crowd inside the arena watched one of the best matches of Pacquiao as of late (Pacquiao supposedly got a 13 million dollar purse.  Add the endorsements to that and you have the richest Filipino boxer of all time…). 

 

Round 1 appeared to be Cotto’s round throwing more punches and with them landing on Pacman’s head and body. 

 

 

Round 2 was clearly Pacquiao’s round scoring a knockdown from Cotto.  Cotto showed ferocious counterpunches.  The Pacman was too quick to sustain serious damage.  When Pacquiao unleashed a leftie, Cotto fell to the floor, dazed.  Since then Cotto didn’t look like he was the same fighter that stepped in the ring barely 5 minutes that passed.

 

Rounds 3-7 were all in Pacquiao’s favor marking another knockdown from Cotto in Round 4.  Everyone held their breath predicting that the bout will end soon with Pacquiao unleashing the deadliest that will bring Cotto down for the third time –and for good.

 

However, the 29-year old underdog from Puerto Rico didn’t relent so easily.  He got pumped up with his second wind and worked the ring, letting Pacquiao run after him.  He released a few jabs and body shots that connected.  It seems like he was back on his strategy of attacking Pacquiao’s body.

 

Judging from Pacquiao’s cauliflower ear and minor cuts under his eyes along with some bruises, Cotto did land some heavy shots of his own.  It was definitely a toe-to-toe match than Pacquiao versus Hatton or Dela Hoya.  You definitely got your money’s worth watching the fight.

 

 

Despite a puffed and brutally bruised face and spitting blood, Cotto stayed in the game, unyielding, hanging on to every round, surviving.  He earned my respect with his athleticism -I heard he’s also loved like Pacquiao because he’s really a very nice guy outside the ring.  Rounds 9 and 10, he looked hopeful to land a devastating left hook that can knock Pacquiao out.  But Pacquiao just wouldn’t have it –and he also didn’t want the fight to go to scorecards even if it was clearly his arm the referee would raise at the end of the day.  He wanted a knockout that his coach, Freddie Roach predicted.

 

 

 

Referee Kenny Bayless stepped in for the boxer’s safety and waved his hands to put an end to the fight after Cotto received a big left to the head and looked like he couldn’t defend himself intelligently. The end came in the 55-second mark of the final round.

 

 

Pacquiao has successfully stripped off Cotto his WBO welterweight belt.  Pacquiao’s speed coupled with throwing many punches from different angles is a firepower that is tough to extinguish -plus the fact that he has the unwavering heart of a champion.

 

 

PBB Double Up

 

 

I missed the opening night of the Philippine reality hit TV show, PBB.  This newest season dubbed as PBB Double Up launched last Sunday with 10 housemates and 2 pairs of male twins.  The housemates were chosen from 57,824 applicants who personally went to the 18 audition sites located worldwide. 

 

Princess, the Sassy Vamp ng Cebu

Tom, the Romantic Stud ng Samar

Delio, the Simpatikong Kusinero ng Batangas

Paul Jake, the Negosyante Prince ng Cebu

Jason, the Boy Astig ng Mindoro

Melissa, the Inday Kengkay ng Gen San

Yuri, the Multilingual Hottie ng Japan

Carol, the Conservative Pharmacist ng Tondo

Mariel, the Struggling Mom ng Davao –is she the one who looks a bit like Wendy Valdez from PBB Season 2?

Yhel, the Young Widow ng Pampanga

Toffi, the Basket Bolero ng Rizal, and his twin brother Kenny, the Joker Jock ng Rizal

JP, the Jetsetter Dad ng Quezon City,and his twin brother JM, the Delightful Dad ng Quezon City.

 

Paul Jake, Kenny, Yuri, Princess and Tom are the ones emerging to have interesting personalities.

 

The housemates are billeted separately in two houses and right after the opening night, the twin pair were put to a challenge.  Inside the confession room that adjoins the two houses, Big Brother instructed the two sets of twins—JP and JM as well as Toffi and Kenny not to inform the other housemates about the other twin. 

 

Image Source: PBB Multiply Site

 

The twins went to separate houses and spent some time there when Big Brother called them again to instruct them to exchange places.  If they failed in this task, they will incur the penalty of forced eviction.  Last night’s first official EP showed that the house where most of the girls are staying suspect that something is up, particularly Carol, the conservative pharmacist and instructor from Tondo.  Melissa, the supposedly funny one from the group noticed the difference in weight and facial features when the other pair substituted.

 

Tune in to know if the big double secret will be busted before the actual reveal.  This ABS-CBN show airs every weeknight, right after Dahil May Isang Ikaw.

 

The Big Winner of PBB Double Up will get P1 million cash, a house and lot worth P2.5 million, a water business franchise, and an Asian tour. Aside from that, the Final Four will get to choose charitable institutions that will receive cash amounts equivalent to what they would be taking home.

 

PBB Steaming is available on SKY Cable.  Call 631-0000 for more information.

 

 —

Typhoon Ondoy: Helping Hand

 

Last Saturday, the backyard experienced half-a-foot of floodwater due to overflow of water and clogging of drainage.  My sister’s room, which was on the first floor had ankle-deep water.  We only found out when we opened her room.  She was stranded overnight in UST with other students, slept on the floor as food for the mosquitoes, exceedingly hungry and exhausted.  My dad got stranded overnight also in his office with water up to the 6th flight of the stairs.  His car got flooded to the roof.  A digicam and 2 phones busted.  We were lucky.

 

Yesterday, Bubba and I left the office early to buy and pack relief goods.  Extremely long lines in the cashier indicate that a lot of people are buying to donate and/or “panic-buying” for stock goods (since PAGASA expects another typhoon to hit Manila tomorrow, Wednesday).

 

It felt good to be there despite the chaos and sort out what donations are needed, primarily food like bread, biscuits and canned goods, and secondary like toothbrush, alcohol, etc.  This is one of the few times, I really wish I were rich -more money to spare means more money to provide for others.

 

 

Overhead the mom and daughter tandem in front of us bought items for donation amounting to quite a huge amount and never bothered to sign the slip –it is most heartwarming when people help in private, anonymously.  Silent in lending a hand.  Politicians can probably do the same. 

 

Not giving aid for the sake of the flashbulbs.

 

 

Note: If you’re shopping in Unimart, LSGH (La Salle Greenhills) has a donation drop-off point in the grocery area handled by students.  You can drop off donations there right after shopping or order directly from the admin (if it’s in big bulks) and just present the item sales slip to the cashier.  Any amount of donation and effort helps.

 

 

A lot of inspiring act of humanity and spirit of bayanihan seen during the calamity, both regular people and celebrities alike.

 

 

Blessed enough to be spared by Typhoon Ondoy, let’s HELP Donate!

 

 

 

List of Donation Centers and Assistance Centers

Google Compiled List of Donation Centers and Rental of Rubber Boat

 

**** This website is open for any public service announcements. 

Email betweenbites@gmail.com ***********

 

 

 

 

Survival Tips- Tyhpoon Ondoy and Other State of Emergency/Calamity

 

UPDATE: Sept. 29, 2009

 

List of Donation Centers and Assistance Centers

Google Compiled List of Donation Centers and Rental of Rubber Boat

 

08:34 AM – Restoration of electricity and water services to take at least a week.

08:40 AM – DepEd: Classes in NCR suspended until Wednesday

09:11 AM – Singapore/Japan Give Aid to RP

09:12 AM – 240 killed in the wake of Ondoy

09:21 AM- Napocor to release water from Angat Dam at 10am today -pre-release of water as precautionary measure of leveling the water (standard amount) since PAGASA expects a typhoon to hit Manila.

Angat Dam to release water: affected are Norzagaray, Angat, San Rafael, Bustos, Baliuag, Plaridel, Pulilan, Calumpit.

 

————————–

UPDATE: Sept. 28, 2009

 

12:30 PM – Number coding scheme suspended for one whole week.

1:25 PM – (RP from AdeMagnaye ) Red Cross Shaw has run out of donations. Nothing to repackage. For donations, text 0917 5370265, they can pick up.

1:30 PM – Rolio Golez confirms that SMS circulating regarding opening Marikina dam is not true.  There’s no Marikina dam.

1:50 PM – 5 Cainta subdivisions still in need of relief operations.

2:06 PM – Death toll reaches 100. 

2:06 PM – China donates $10,000 to Red Cross to help victims of Ondoy.

2:09 PM – Accdg to Jun Guidote, water continue to rise in Laguna due to high tide.  Relief operations ongoing in Laguna.

 

————————–

 

The wrath of Typhoon Ondoy devastated Metro Manila and its nearby provinces like Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Pampanga among others.

 

Hurricane Katrina was at 350 millimeters rainfall while Typhoon Ondoy at 412 millimeters.  The continuous downpour of 9 hours submerged most parts of the Metro including Marikina and Valenzuela.  9 hours!  Can you imagine?  Another manifestation of climate change that is really unnerving.  The documentaries on Nat Geo about Earth not surviving another million years haunt one. 

 

Image Source: Archiemedes Sy

Image Source: Archiemedes Sy

 

My officemate Karen just told me she saw in the news a dog trying to piggy back on a man’s back but the man shoved him off for survival.  Both are trying to survive.  How heart wrenching.

 

No one expected that in a matter of few hours, certain areas would be submerged in floodwater.  Big houses are not spared.  Celebrities and politicians weren’t either. 

 

Some survival tips:

 

1. Stock on food at home, car, office and in your bag.  No one knows how long this climate will last or when a state of emergency happens.  It’s always better to be armed with necessary stocks at home like:

 

Food

 

Bread -gives the carbo load you need in replacement of rice.  Rice still has to be cooked.

Biscuits/cookies –alternative to bread, sugar helps relieve pangs of hunger

Candies –the sugar will help ease acidity in case there are more eminent task at hand than eating

Canned goods (like corned beef, Vienna sausage, tuna, pork and beans, chili con carne, corn) –not easily perishable and ready to eat

Instant Noodles –are also ready to eat although it’s best enjoyed cooked.  Snack on the noodles like crackers.

Bottled water

Carbonated drinks/Coffee

 

Items

 

Flashlight and Batteries

Thick Blanket/Comforters/Mattress Covers/Pillows

Jacket/Sweaters/Socks/Caps/Rain Boots

Radio and Batteries

Umbrella/Tents/Mono Block Chairs

Towels

Knife, Candles, Matches, Plastic Wares, Plastic Utensils, Napkins, Plastic Bags

Empty plastic bottles

Lifesavers/Old Tires/Styrofoam

Big Pails

Slippers

Antiseptic/First Aid Kits/Medicine bags

 

**If possible, keep all items in one area or fit everything in one “EMERGENCY BAG,” so it’s easy to locate and grab.

 

2. Unplug all appliances (particularly on the first floor) and keep a watchful eye on refrigerator and electricity outlets.

3. Always have extra cash handy.  ATMs might not be available or accessible.

4. Improvised flotation device can be made out of empty Coke/Pepsi/C2/Juice/Water plastic bottles.  Just securely tie the plastic bottles together (4-10) and it can work as a flotation device.

5. If possible, charge all equipment necessary, emergency light, mobile phones (for communication), etc. 

 

** UPDATE ** There are enough volunteers in Sagip Kapamilya of ABS-CBN, more donations are needed like cooked rice, bread, boiled eggs, etc.  Kindly bring donations to Sagip Kapamilya at #13 Examiner St. QC.