May Garden Festival @ Splash Island

 

As per my last visit to Splash Island, March 19, Sir Sonny Torres told me that they will have MAY GARDEN FESTIVAL at the world class resort. I think the millions in pesos of beautiful landscapes in the resort were an evidentiary of the forthcoming event.

Scattered in every corner of Splash Island are plants, trees and colorful flowers plus beautiful landscapes that will surely make the visitors and participants of the event astound and excited the whole day.

Year End Recognition Day of my daughter

The family is so tired but we’re all happy as well. Today is my daughter’s Year End Recognition Day at St. Matthew College. Students from Grades 1-5 will be honored with medals and certificates for garnering high grades during the school year. My daughter, Nicole, was in Grade 4 and she got 2 gold medals: 1 gold for overall Rank 1 (First Honors) and 1 gold for co-curricular activities.

As she started her schooling way back her Nursery time, I could say that she’s a dedicated and active kind of student. I heard nothing but good words and praises for her coming from classmates, parents and her teachers as well. Although at times we quarrel when she loses her time management and focus because of her young age and influence around her, she’s still in the stage of listening to our words and discerning things we used to tell her.

Again, my heartfelt congratulations to you baby! Keep up the good work and we’re so happy and proud of you.

Summer station ID of ABS-CBN & GMA-7

The Summer Station IDs of the country’s leading networks have been released. ABS-CBN’s
“Bida Best sa Tag-araw” and GMA-7’s “Halo-Halo Ang Summer Saya.”

Child Abuse @ Willing Willie???

After several controversies while hosting Wowowee, Willie Revillame is faced with another one this time in violation of Republic Act No. 7610 also known as “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination.” It is with regard to the March 12, 2011 episode of “Willing Willie” aired over TV5. There was a 6 year old boy named Jan-Jan Estrada who was made to repeatedly perform dance moves usually done by adult dancers in indecent shows in exchange for 10,000 pesos. The poor boy suffered emotional trauma after the incident.

Boy abused in ‘Willing Willie,’ DSWD says
Letter to Manny V. Pangilinan from DSWD Sec Soliman
TV5 Releases Statement Regarding the March 12 Episode of ‘Willing Willie’

Mula sa Puso returns

ABS-CBN brings back the soap opera in the late 90’s, “Mula sa Puso,” with a powerhouse cast beginning Monday, March 28, at 6:00pm as a new addition to its unbeatable Primetime Bida block. Meet the new cast of the much awaited teleserye:

• MAGDA – Dawn Zulueta
• FERNANDO – Ariel Rivera
• SELINA – Eula Valdez
• GABRIEL – JM De Guzman
• MICHAEL – Enrique Gil
• VIA – Lauren Young

Food @ Splash Island

 

Check out the following food stalls inside Splash Island. These were taken last March 19, 2011.

Splash Island's RIO MONTAÑOSA

 

SPLASH ISLAND - The Spaniards were once awed by the breath and height of the Cordilleras in the Mountain Province – La Montañosa they called it. Today, there’s a new breathtaking mountain high river raft ride the entire family will rave about – Rio Montañosa, we call it.

Rio Montañosa is a gigantic and most probably the longest slide you will encounter when you are at Splash Island. You will begin your journey to this slide atop of a 4 storey building, on board in a group raft, as your group glide on the giant slide with continuous water flowing, and us the raft go left and right with the rapids your group’s raft will splash on the water pool when you reach the end.

It’s indeed a must-go ride for family, friends and business groups as you unwind this summer vacation. Shout together, laugh together as you take the long journey of Rio Montañosa. How long it is? The picture will speak for itself.

2010 Bar Exams Top 10 list

Cesareo Antonio Singzon Jr. of Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) law school in Makati City got the highest score of 89% in the Bar Exams held last year. There were 982 other bar passers, or 20.26% of all the 4,847 examinees. Half of the Top 10 were occupied by Ateneo students. Below is the ranking:

American Idol 10: Karen Rodriguez out

Karen Rodriguez was ousted and was the second finalist eliminated in the season 10 of American Idol. Fortunately, our very own Thia Megia was able to survive the said elimination round given despite some criticism from Idol judges on her choice of song, “Colors of the Wind”. The bottom three were Karen Rodriguez, Haley Reinhart and Naima Adedapo. Thia thanked everyone for their support in her official Twitter account.

Bishop Bacani: Impeach Ombudsman Gutierrez first before RH Bill

Bishop Teodoro Bacani wants the House of Representatives to prioritize the impeachment of Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez instead of the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) Bill. He said that the impeachment will help eradicate corruption in the country and RH bill is a waste of time and described as a poison that kills the lives of innocents.

Ombudsman Gutierrez is faced with a possible impeachment at the House of Representatives for betrayal of public trust due to her low conviction rate and inaction on the NBN-ZTE scam, fertilizer fund scandal, "Euro generals" scandal, and the Philip Pestaño case.

Forget RH bill, impeach Merci instead: bishop
55 lawmakers ready to interpellate RH bill
Church sets ‘grandmother’ of all rallies vs RH Bill
Thousands of women attend pro-RH bill march
Solon wears polo, delays RH bill
House leader insists RH bill a priority measure
Congress fails to tackle RH bill anew
Miriam wants RH bill passed

PHIVOLCS: Marikina West Valley fault riped

After the devastating earthquake in Japan, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology or PHIVOLCS on Wednesday said that the Marikina West Valley fault line is ripe for movement because it has not moved for 200 years. The possibility of a 7.2 magnitude earthquake is not unlikely. The 7 cities that will suffer the most damage and casualties if a massive earthquake occurs at the West Valley fault are MARIKINA, QUEZON, PASIG, MAKATI, PATEROS, TAGUIG and MUNTINLUPA.

SY 2010-2011 about to end

End of classes is nearing. My son who is a graduating student from Preparatory Level just finished his final exams last week and practicing for the graduation this week until next week. Their graduation was set on March 26 at Maria Rafols Hall of Virgen del Pilar School, while my daughter who is a Grade 4 student in St. Matthew College will have their finals next week. Their Year-End Recognition was set temporarily on March 30.

I am thankful that the 2 occasions do not coincide on the same date and at the same time congratulates both of my kids for another school year they are about to finish with flying colors. Love you both.

Banco Filipino closes

Amidst several issues concerning Japan, Banco Filipino with 62 branches nationwide, had been reported closed on some of its branches last Tuesday. The closure was attributed to “extraordinary financial panic” and “heavy withdrawals,” according to Banco Filipino.

Banco Filipino closes amid panic, heavy withdrawals
CA orders BSP, MB execs as add'l respondents in Banco Filipino suit
BSP, MB defendants in Banco Filipino case, CA rules
Makati RTC restrains BSP, MB vs Banco Filipino
High court junks Banco Filipino stockholder’s suit

ABS-CBN Kapamilya Helpline for Japan OFW

ABS-CBN launched “The Kapamilya Helpline” which aims to help locate our fellow Filipinos living in Japan and at the same time accepts calls from our OFWs in Japan to know their condition there. ABS-CBN/Kapamilya Helpline: (trunkline) 411-0011, 411-0012, 415-2272; (Smart) 09294447372; (Globe) 09276760652. It is a 24-hour helpline for people who have friends or relatives in Japan, which has been hit by a massive earthquake and a tsunami. You can also visit the website and post your concerns.

Pictures of Japan's 8.9 earthquake

 

Seeing the pictures of the aftermath of this devastating 8.9 magnitude earthquake that hit Japan posted at Yahoo! News, I can’t help but feel so sad and be fear also for our country. But I know that as one nation Japan will rise again and be more ready with such occurrence. With the help of every nation around the world, I know our fellow Japanese brothers and sisters will be able to cope up with this tragic moment and stand up and rebuild a much stronger Japan.

Hazard mapping needed

What happened to Japan recently was really heart-breaking. But it is something every country must be ready to deal with anytime coz nothing and nobody can predict such occurrence and time is of the essence. In the Philippines, I hope the government will release the hazard mapping so that the people can make the necessary preparations.
The East and West Valley Fault has not been moving for 200 years, according to PHIVOLCS Director Renato Solidum. It runs from Bulacan area, Rodriguez (Quezon City), Marikina Area, Pasig, easternmost Makati, Taguig to Muntinlupa, San Pedro, Biñan to Calamba. Any earthquake is dangerous to any building or property situated on the top of the fault line so I guess the government will prioritize a campaign information about fault lines, drills and preparations.

PHIVOLCS warns residents near fault lines
Hazard mapping sought to prep for quake
Know what to do when "The Big One" comes

Art Activity: Fruits & Vegetables Mobile

Right now, my daughter is making this Art Activity #29: Fruits and Vegetables Mobile. Her teacher allowed them to make different objects aside from fruits and vegetables. Since she does like fashion, she decided to create different apparel like casual wear, gown, cocktail dress, and office wear. If you want to make the same at home, here are the materials and procedure:

MATERIALS

• White cartolina
• Used cardboard
• Coloring materials like colored pens or pencils, crayons, water color, cray pas or any medium
• Strings or chains
• Puncher
• Glue, pair of scissors

PROCEDURE

• Choose/Decide what fruits or vegetables you would like to draw.
• Sketch your design lightly on the cartolina.
• Using a black pen, ink your sketch.
• Cut the design using your pair of scissors.
• Duplicate the design by tracing it again on the cartolina.
• Paste the design on a cardboard. Cut the cardboard following the design.
• Paste the duplicated design at the back of the cardboard.
• Color the design – both front and back portion.
• Assemble all the fruits and vegetables to create a simple mobile by using strings or chains.
• Balance all designs.

You can arrange your designs horizontally or in the X pattern.

Ashton Jones out in American Idol

Ashton Jones was saved by the judges as they tried to save 3 more aspiring American Idol contestants to be part of the Top 13. Receiving a compliment of “confidence of a queen” from Steven Tyler, Jones was the first to leave the top rating show. On the other hand, our very own Thia Megia was safe again.

8.9 magnitude earthquake in Japan

My husband gave me a call around past 3pm and informed me of the devastating 8.9 magnitude earthquake that hit Japan. He also told me that a widespread tsunami warning was made for countries in the Pacific. Unfortunately, my husband was in Legaspi, Albay with an Alert Level 2 warning for tsunami. Right now I am still awake and keeping in touch with him. When I turned on the TV as well as the radio, I can’t help but felt gloomy as I watched a big body of water smashed a coastal in Japan. Lives and properties were hit by such a high level of tsunami.

With all these happenings around the world, let us all live with love and respect for one another from now on. Forget greed, anger, power, selfishness and the evil deeds. It is high time that we care for each other, work hand in hand for a better future, take good care of our nature and live a life pleasing to God. God help us all.

Pres. Aquino climbs stairs @ Changi Water Reclamation Plant

“No problem.” This was the remarks of President Noynoy Aquino to the Singaporean officials who profusely apologized to him after the an elevator from Changi Water Reclamation Plant got troubled. The water treatment plant was the first stop for the day of the president but he was still all smiles after the incident. The president visited the facility to see how Singapore supplies its residents with clean water, while looking for ways on how the Philippines could adopt the system.

In this incident, the president not only showed his cabinet members but also the world that we must always keep our feet on the ground and at times sacrifice special treatments in the name of public service. Hearing the reports about the trip, I believed the meetings were successful and beneficial for both Singapore and the Philippines.

Singapore is one country to look for as an inspiration on how they progresses as a country.

Kathryn Bernardo meets YouTube sensation Pamela Andrea del Rosario

Remember the controversial YouTube video of an 11 year old “Mara Clara” fan named Pamela Andrea del Rosario? Well then this Filipina residing in Chicago got to meet Kathryn Bernardo (the one portraying the role of Mara) through Skype. They got to talk for about 13 minutes, and Pamela promised to watch the show till the end and thanked Kathryn for taking time to reach her.


I was able to watch the said video in Facebook, posted by a friend, and I think I understand what she felt. She’s just a little girl got attached and loved the character of Mara. Her death was depressing for her. I remember our grandmothers the way they got to love and hate the characters of drama artists in a radio drama. How much more with Pamela? On the other hand, my daughter disliked “Clara” so much and loved “Mara” to the max.

Well I guess with such reactions, the whole cast of “Mara Clara” is doing a great job.

Catch Me.. I'm Falling music video

I have seen the movie teaser of “Catch Me.. I’m Falling” of Gerald Anderson and Sarah Geronimo and I expect this will be a hit. This highly anticipated Viva Films and Star Cinema movie is scheduled on March 23 and moviegoers will have a taste again of a love story with a mixture of romance, joy and sadness. “Fallin” is the theme song of the movie and Sarah interpreted the song and the music video was shot in Manila Flower Center.

ASAP Rocks: Sarah & Angeline showdown

ASAP Rocks last Sunday paved the way for the showdown of vocal prowess of Popstar Princess SARAH GERONIMO and Female Pop Superstar ANGELINE QUINTO. After 9 years, when Sarah and Angeline vied for the title of “Star of the Night” in 2002, the face off was one of the most awaited part in ASAP Rocks last Sunday. Each girl has a story to tell before reaching their respective dreams and I could say that aside from the vocal prowess these girls has, they also both determined to continue reaching their dreams in the world of music and maybe even in the movie industry.

Congratulations Sarah and Angeline!

Phil Younghusband has a girlfriend?

Is it true that Phil Younghusband has a girlfriend? There are intimate photos circulating in the internet of Phil and a girl (believed to be her real girlfriend) identified as Denisse Oca, daughter of actress Melissa Mendez. If the rumor is true, I am pretty sure many girls are heartbroken now. Cross your fingers girls because Denisse is denying the rumor.

Lt. Gen. Eduardo Oban: New AFP Chief

The new Armed Forces Chief of Staff is Lt. Gen. Eduardo Oban. According to a military analyst, AFP Chief Oban is a man of integrity and I hope he will remain as he sets to retire 9 months from now. Hearing the massive corruption in AFP, the pity condition of ordinary AFP personnel and the continuity of good programs for the AFP to undertake, I hope and pray that Chief Oban will do great things about these. May he stand for the truth and integrity as a PMAer, and increase the morale of the whole AFP.

New AFP chief a man of integrity: military expert
Aquino names Oban as new AFP chief

Swim with Milo Swimming Clinic: SWIMMAN AQUATICS

The sun is in an enthusiastic gleam once again! People of different walks of life are in the rush to plunge into water and soothe them of the temperature rise.

Swimming is one of the most popular leisure activities not only in the Philippines but also around the world. Its popularity can be attributed to the necessity of the skill and the benefits one gain from engaging to such physical activity.

Swimming is an activity enjoyed by all ages. Recent studies show that children as young as two years of age can learn how to swim with the proper supervision of trained personnel. Facts would also show that drowning is one of the leading causes of death to children aged 1-14 years old. Since it is an active sport it helps maintain weight and exercise cardiovascular functions of a person-- a totally enjoyable work out.

Swimman Aquatics, a group of highly qualified instructors sponsored by MILO Sports Clinic, offers a wide range of swimming lessons that everyone can avail all year round. Whether it is swimming for recreation or competition there is a sure course that will fit you.

• Basic Course (7-17 years old) Fundamentals of Freestyle stroke, Diving = Php3,500.00

• Advanced / Individual Medley Strokes - Butterfly, Back Stroke, Breast Stroke, and Competitive Freestyle = Php 3,000.00

• Adult Fitness Swimming Program / Personalized drills to enhance certain areas you need to work on = Php 3,500.00

• Competitive / Training drills, competition endurance and techniques = Php 3,000.00

Come, Learn, and Enjoy with us in the following Venues:

• Portofino, Daang Hari Road Alabang (7:30-8:30 am  &  8:30-9:30 am)
• Splash Island, Biñan Laguna (7:30-8:30 am  &  8:30-9:30 am)
• Partylandia, Katarungan Alabang (2:30-3:30pm, 3:30-4:30pm  &  4:30-5:30pm)

 

Here are some of the testimonials of clients:

• “I've seen how my boys, Inaki (6) and Inigo (4) progressed. Coach Kriza knows how to handle them effectively incorporating fun into the teaching process. I'm proud of my boys. Thanks to you Coach!” - Walter Francis K. Torres, Ateneo Faculty (LSPE Department)

• “I believe that having a regular sport helps the body become fit and healthy, that's why I've always wanted my kids to get into sports. Thanks to Milo Swimming Clinic, they are now active and knowledgeable in swimming. They also met new friends who share the same interest. My kids are now encouraged to be more fit and active, Thanks to Coach Kriza and to Coach Mark.” - Mary Elaine Grenas

For further information:

Call/text 02.407.0171 or 0905-221-9802, 0949-411-8599

or visit our website: http://swimaqua.net/ & Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/swimaquatics. 

House Justice on Gutierrez: Sufficient in grounds

To impeach or not to impeach Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez? That’s the issue of showdown between allies of President Aquino and former President Arroyo in the House Justice Committee. They need to vote if the impeachment complaints against Gutierrez are sufficient in grounds. And the winner is… The committee declared the complaint filed by former Rep. Risa Hontiveros and endorsed by Akbayan sufficient in grounds with votes of 41-12. Same vote was casted in reference to the complaint filed by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Renato Reyes and endorsed by Bayan Muna also sufficient in grounds.

What’s now left for the Ombudsman? I think Mercy should have had resign long after President Aquino resumed office. She’s been considered as an ally of PGMA and accused of not doing her job among the many cases of massive corruption during PGMA’s reign. I just hope that these congressmen will be fair and just as they bring the issue in the floor to give justice to many Filipinos.


* Solon optimistic Gutierrez will be impeached
* Belmonte: We have numbers to impeach Gutierrez
* Gutierrez seeks Supreme Court's mercy
* Ombudsman: My conscience is clear
* ‘Ombudsman’s stance will speed up impeach proceedings’
* House panel votes to proceed with Ombudsman impeachment

Thia Megia @ American Idol Season 10

Thialorei Lising Megia or simply “Thia” is now part of American Idol Season 10’s Top 24. She rendered “Chasing Pavements” during her audition and wowed judges Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson. International singing sensation Charice is happy for Thia who is a friend. They met in 2009 during the David Foster and Friends concert in Vancouver, Canada. In the same year, Thia became a semi-finalist in America’s Got Talent Season 4.

2011 Baguio Panagbenga Festival pictures

 

The City of Baguio held yearly the world renowned “PANAGBENGA FESTIVAL.” It is being held every month of February that showcases the many floral floats and native dances. Panagbenga is a kankanaey term for “a season of blooming.” It is also known as the Baguio Flower Festival, a homage to the beautiful flowers the city is famous for as well as a celebration of Baguio’s re-establishment.