Watched ONE NIGHT ONLY with Bru, Yaya and Bhorgina at Festival Mall last January 7. In all honestly, I laughed the hardest watching this movie.
The Chokoleit and Joross Gamboa and Alessandra and Paolo Contis bits were the most hilarious. I wasn't really convinced with the performance of Manilyn Reynes. Eugene (for Tanging Ina Nyong Lahat) should have won Best Supporting Actress instead. Manilyn as a "butch" didn't exactly click for me. Sana si Aiza na lang! She was 'screaming' the entire time (ganun siya magpakita ng angst-y character niya) and her moves were really exaggerated.
Katrina Halili was her usual slutty self. Valerie Concepcion's acting was so-so. The movie would survive with or without Jennylyn Mercado and Diana Zubiri. Jon Avila is hot! (hahaha)
The movie was quite short. Think it ran for an hour and 15 minutes only. The story ends at this motel, where all the characters stories are resolved. I liked it. The movie's pace was just right. No boring moments.
So in short, I only missed watching Desperadas 2, Dayo and Magkaibigan. But even if I get free passes for these three remaining movies, I would simply pass. Well, maybe Dayo.
Overall, I've seen better Festival movies. Looking forward to next year.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Friday, January 02, 2009
Metro Manila Film Festival 2009
DAY 1
ANG TANGING INA NYONG LAHAT
Ai Ai did say in her movie plugs that this should be the first movie people should see. Bespwen and I were obedient enough to do this. True to our yearly holiday tradition, we trooped to the Festival Mall Cinemas at about 11:00am of December 29 and bought tickets to the Filmfest's Top Grossing Film.
Eugene (Best Friend Rowena) upstaged Ai Ai, no doubt. Personally, I think she is the funniest bit in the movie, together with Alwin, Ai Ai's gay son. The story begins with Ai Ai trying very hard to impress her children and make them proud of her. Just like in "Tanging Ina", Ai Ai would go through some odd jobs like being Angel Locsin's stunt double in Lobo (but ending up being the lobo's stunt double instead). She ends up working at the Malacanang as a chambermaid, together with her best friend Rowena. In a simple twist of fate, she becomes the star witness to the killing of "Madam President" played by Gloria Diaz. It was the Vice President who actually plots the killing, and it is only Ai Ai who can prove this. The Vice President then challenges Ai Ai to a snap election. She wins. This was how she became President of the Republic of the Philippines.
The moment between Ai Ai and Gloria Diaz in the kitchen, when the President got hungry and it was Ai Ai who prepared some food for her was very touching. Ai Ai talked about her kids and how she would do anything to given them a good life. Her 'drama' scenes, to me, proved to be more effective than her comedy bits.
The Vice President was sent to jail and he instructs this one Senator to 'ruin' Ai Ai. This was not resolved in the end. Whatever happened to the Vice President was left hanging. There was no resolution to this and him killing Gloria Diaz.
Too bad Marvin was no longer there (physically, hehe). They should have just taken out Serena Dalrymple. She brings no value to the film. I liked the twins. They're first time actors and they are pretty good. I laughed out loud when comedian Flora Gasser took the twins to the police station (the twins ran away from home). She instructed the girls to hold on to her skirt and not let go whatever happens. By the time she reached the police station, her skirt was a goner. The police even had to ask if she was raped! LOL!
Overall, the movie was entertaining, but not spectacular. A good first movie to watch indeed. Now, on to the next...
BALER
This is my favorite movie out of the four we watched. I FORCED Bespwen to include this in our line-up, in exchange for her stooopid SHAKE, RATTLE and Roll X (which I will talk about later). I admit, there were some dragging parts, but I stayed glued to flick from start to finish.
Philip Salvador was so good in this movie. He played the father of Anne Curtis, whose sister got raped and killed by the Spaniards, and whose brother was tortured by the same. This was the reason why he abhored the Spaniards so much. The irony is that Anne falls in love with Jericho, who played half-Pinoy, half Spanish Celso.
Jericho was also very effective in the film. People around me kept saying it's weird that Jericho got casted as a Spanish soldier. HE IS NOT PURE SPANISH, OKAY? So drop it, people. =) He was good in this film. Pwedeng pang-Best Actor. However, I wouldn't be able to compare his performance with proclaimed Festival Best Actor Christopher de Leon since I have absolutely NO PLANS of watching Magkaibigan. Anything with Jinggoy Estrada on it is a waste of my time.
Aurora looked stunning in the film. The place is majestic! And the casting was really good. Hello, Jao Mapa! Hahaha! He played one of the four half-Spanish, half-Pinoy soldiers together with Mark Bautista (who was also impressive in the film). Bernard Palanca, Ryan Eigennman and Baron Geisler played heads of the Spanish troops that staked out in the church and surrendered to the Filipinos 388 (hope I got this right) days after.
Carlo Aquino was here again. He played Anne's brother.
Baler was an evident choice for Best Picture since the other films bordered more on the comedic side. Magkaibigan was their closest rival and I would absolutely die if this won Best Picture!
Bespwen and I ended the day feeling a bit depressed since Jericho died in the film. They did not end up together, sorry, folks. No happy ending here. The movie ends with Anne and her son 'Celso' seen walking around the church where the kid's father died. The entire story was narrated by Anne and Jericho's child.
DAY 2
ISKUL BUKOL, THE REUNION (20 YEARS AFTER)
Three words: WASTE OF MONEY. Kulang na lang si Pia Guanio, at Eat Bulaga the noontime show na ang kalalabasan. The Enteng series was way more entertaining that this attempt to bring back the glory days of TVJ. The Iskul Bukol regulars Tonette Macho, Richie d' Horsie and Bibeth Oropesa appeared for only about 20 minutes throughout the entire film. Where's the reunion there?
The movie mainly focused on the adventures of Vic Ungasis, now an archeologist. Parang Enteng Kabisote rin, but set in an Indiana Jones type of feel. I immediately texted Tatet and Cuz after the movie, telling them how lousy the film is. They exchanged their Iskul Bukol tickets for Tanging Ina. I saved them!!!
I won't waste my blog space talking about Iskul Bukol. Vic, stick to Enteng if you know what's good for you.
SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL X
If it weren't for the third episode (Nieves, the Engkanto Slayer -- Pinoy spin-off ng Buffy the Vampire Slayer), I would surely have nightmares since this was our last movie for the day. The second episode entitled "Class Picture" was extremely effective in scaring the living daylights out of me! Well, semi. Since I was so chicken shit about the whole "scary" thing, I was tucked under Bespwen's arms for the duration of Episode 2. I could just hear the whole thing and I peeped thru some scenes. Buti na lang the third episode starring Marian Rivera was a mix of comedy and fantasy. So okay na ako.
The first episode, Emergency, starred Wendell Ramos and Mylene Dizon as aswangs, Roxanne Guinoo as a doctor and JC de Vera as his nurse-love interest. Also in this episode were Denise Laurel (who also played a nurse), Janus del Prado (who is this episode's redeeming factor) as JC's best bud and Jon Lapus, a paranoid patient in the hospital.
The story revolves around Mylene and Wendell's quest for revenge after their child was pronounced dead at the emergency room of the hospital. The prosthethics were pathetic. It looked like the film was made during the 90s when costumes and make-up was still mediocre. It's unfortunate. I cringe thinking about it, honestly.
The second episode bags the gold in scaring everyone out of their seats. This episode starred Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, plus Nina Jose, Prince from Starstruck, IC Mendoza and some other Starstruck and Star Circle people. The mumu, a nun, was played by the ever-so-wagi Jean Garcia.
"Class Picture" was about a bunch a friends, a barkada, who stays overnight in the St. Scholastica's College Manila-looking school. Some of their girl friends start missing, starting with Nina Jose, who opens the film running away from someone or something. She then gets whip wounds on her body, and eventually dies.
Another girl in their barkada dies after looking at this class picture (which keeps popping up almost anywhere) and staring at Jean Garcia, an old nun-teacher in the school. Apparently, in Jean's class during the 1800's, three of her students have gone missing, and the school principal tells her that she can only come back and teach once again, after she "completes" her class. Everytime Jean takes away the life of one of the new girls, their faces appear on the old class picture.
The last target was Kim Chiu. However, she has some sort of third eye. So she's the special one who "saves the day". During her final encounter with Jean Garcia, she summons the spirits of Jean's three missing students, asking them for help to save her from the evil nun. This was how Jean Garcia was defeated.
It's scary! I remember my high school days in St. Scho when we would talk about ghost stories of floating nuns and souls in school. It was so close to home that's why it was extra scary for me and Bespwen.
The last episode was okay. Nieves is a palengkerang probinsyanang ghost slayer, much like how Marian Rivera is in real life. So her portrayal of Nieves seemed effortless. It was really MARIAN, the real person, up there on the big screen. Pecto plays the role of Adonis, her "super gwapong" husband. The head engkanto, played by Diana Zubiri fights for Pecto's love vs Nieves.
I can't really say much about this episode. It was, however, okay enough to take my mind off "Class Picture".
Here is my round up of this year's Filmfest adventure with Bespwen. We are still aiming to watch "One Night Only". Crossing my fingers that Bespwen and I still get to do this since I am leaving for Vigan already tomorrow with Cuz.
Anyway, until next year, folks!
ANG TANGING INA NYONG LAHAT
Ai Ai did say in her movie plugs that this should be the first movie people should see. Bespwen and I were obedient enough to do this. True to our yearly holiday tradition, we trooped to the Festival Mall Cinemas at about 11:00am of December 29 and bought tickets to the Filmfest's Top Grossing Film.
Eugene (Best Friend Rowena) upstaged Ai Ai, no doubt. Personally, I think she is the funniest bit in the movie, together with Alwin, Ai Ai's gay son. The story begins with Ai Ai trying very hard to impress her children and make them proud of her. Just like in "Tanging Ina", Ai Ai would go through some odd jobs like being Angel Locsin's stunt double in Lobo (but ending up being the lobo's stunt double instead). She ends up working at the Malacanang as a chambermaid, together with her best friend Rowena. In a simple twist of fate, she becomes the star witness to the killing of "Madam President" played by Gloria Diaz. It was the Vice President who actually plots the killing, and it is only Ai Ai who can prove this. The Vice President then challenges Ai Ai to a snap election. She wins. This was how she became President of the Republic of the Philippines.
The moment between Ai Ai and Gloria Diaz in the kitchen, when the President got hungry and it was Ai Ai who prepared some food for her was very touching. Ai Ai talked about her kids and how she would do anything to given them a good life. Her 'drama' scenes, to me, proved to be more effective than her comedy bits.
The Vice President was sent to jail and he instructs this one Senator to 'ruin' Ai Ai. This was not resolved in the end. Whatever happened to the Vice President was left hanging. There was no resolution to this and him killing Gloria Diaz.
Too bad Marvin was no longer there (physically, hehe). They should have just taken out Serena Dalrymple. She brings no value to the film. I liked the twins. They're first time actors and they are pretty good. I laughed out loud when comedian Flora Gasser took the twins to the police station (the twins ran away from home). She instructed the girls to hold on to her skirt and not let go whatever happens. By the time she reached the police station, her skirt was a goner. The police even had to ask if she was raped! LOL!
Overall, the movie was entertaining, but not spectacular. A good first movie to watch indeed. Now, on to the next...
BALER
This is my favorite movie out of the four we watched. I FORCED Bespwen to include this in our line-up, in exchange for her stooopid SHAKE, RATTLE and Roll X (which I will talk about later). I admit, there were some dragging parts, but I stayed glued to flick from start to finish.
Philip Salvador was so good in this movie. He played the father of Anne Curtis, whose sister got raped and killed by the Spaniards, and whose brother was tortured by the same. This was the reason why he abhored the Spaniards so much. The irony is that Anne falls in love with Jericho, who played half-Pinoy, half Spanish Celso.
Jericho was also very effective in the film. People around me kept saying it's weird that Jericho got casted as a Spanish soldier. HE IS NOT PURE SPANISH, OKAY? So drop it, people. =) He was good in this film. Pwedeng pang-Best Actor. However, I wouldn't be able to compare his performance with proclaimed Festival Best Actor Christopher de Leon since I have absolutely NO PLANS of watching Magkaibigan. Anything with Jinggoy Estrada on it is a waste of my time.
Aurora looked stunning in the film. The place is majestic! And the casting was really good. Hello, Jao Mapa! Hahaha! He played one of the four half-Spanish, half-Pinoy soldiers together with Mark Bautista (who was also impressive in the film). Bernard Palanca, Ryan Eigennman and Baron Geisler played heads of the Spanish troops that staked out in the church and surrendered to the Filipinos 388 (hope I got this right) days after.
Carlo Aquino was here again. He played Anne's brother.
Baler was an evident choice for Best Picture since the other films bordered more on the comedic side. Magkaibigan was their closest rival and I would absolutely die if this won Best Picture!
Bespwen and I ended the day feeling a bit depressed since Jericho died in the film. They did not end up together, sorry, folks. No happy ending here. The movie ends with Anne and her son 'Celso' seen walking around the church where the kid's father died. The entire story was narrated by Anne and Jericho's child.
DAY 2
ISKUL BUKOL, THE REUNION (20 YEARS AFTER)
Three words: WASTE OF MONEY. Kulang na lang si Pia Guanio, at Eat Bulaga the noontime show na ang kalalabasan. The Enteng series was way more entertaining that this attempt to bring back the glory days of TVJ. The Iskul Bukol regulars Tonette Macho, Richie d' Horsie and Bibeth Oropesa appeared for only about 20 minutes throughout the entire film. Where's the reunion there?
The movie mainly focused on the adventures of Vic Ungasis, now an archeologist. Parang Enteng Kabisote rin, but set in an Indiana Jones type of feel. I immediately texted Tatet and Cuz after the movie, telling them how lousy the film is. They exchanged their Iskul Bukol tickets for Tanging Ina. I saved them!!!
I won't waste my blog space talking about Iskul Bukol. Vic, stick to Enteng if you know what's good for you.
SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL X
If it weren't for the third episode (Nieves, the Engkanto Slayer -- Pinoy spin-off ng Buffy the Vampire Slayer), I would surely have nightmares since this was our last movie for the day. The second episode entitled "Class Picture" was extremely effective in scaring the living daylights out of me! Well, semi. Since I was so chicken shit about the whole "scary" thing, I was tucked under Bespwen's arms for the duration of Episode 2. I could just hear the whole thing and I peeped thru some scenes. Buti na lang the third episode starring Marian Rivera was a mix of comedy and fantasy. So okay na ako.
The first episode, Emergency, starred Wendell Ramos and Mylene Dizon as aswangs, Roxanne Guinoo as a doctor and JC de Vera as his nurse-love interest. Also in this episode were Denise Laurel (who also played a nurse), Janus del Prado (who is this episode's redeeming factor) as JC's best bud and Jon Lapus, a paranoid patient in the hospital.
The story revolves around Mylene and Wendell's quest for revenge after their child was pronounced dead at the emergency room of the hospital. The prosthethics were pathetic. It looked like the film was made during the 90s when costumes and make-up was still mediocre. It's unfortunate. I cringe thinking about it, honestly.
The second episode bags the gold in scaring everyone out of their seats. This episode starred Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, plus Nina Jose, Prince from Starstruck, IC Mendoza and some other Starstruck and Star Circle people. The mumu, a nun, was played by the ever-so-wagi Jean Garcia.
"Class Picture" was about a bunch a friends, a barkada, who stays overnight in the St. Scholastica's College Manila-looking school. Some of their girl friends start missing, starting with Nina Jose, who opens the film running away from someone or something. She then gets whip wounds on her body, and eventually dies.
Another girl in their barkada dies after looking at this class picture (which keeps popping up almost anywhere) and staring at Jean Garcia, an old nun-teacher in the school. Apparently, in Jean's class during the 1800's, three of her students have gone missing, and the school principal tells her that she can only come back and teach once again, after she "completes" her class. Everytime Jean takes away the life of one of the new girls, their faces appear on the old class picture.
The last target was Kim Chiu. However, she has some sort of third eye. So she's the special one who "saves the day". During her final encounter with Jean Garcia, she summons the spirits of Jean's three missing students, asking them for help to save her from the evil nun. This was how Jean Garcia was defeated.
It's scary! I remember my high school days in St. Scho when we would talk about ghost stories of floating nuns and souls in school. It was so close to home that's why it was extra scary for me and Bespwen.
The last episode was okay. Nieves is a palengkerang probinsyanang ghost slayer, much like how Marian Rivera is in real life. So her portrayal of Nieves seemed effortless. It was really MARIAN, the real person, up there on the big screen. Pecto plays the role of Adonis, her "super gwapong" husband. The head engkanto, played by Diana Zubiri fights for Pecto's love vs Nieves.
I can't really say much about this episode. It was, however, okay enough to take my mind off "Class Picture".
Here is my round up of this year's Filmfest adventure with Bespwen. We are still aiming to watch "One Night Only". Crossing my fingers that Bespwen and I still get to do this since I am leaving for Vigan already tomorrow with Cuz.
Anyway, until next year, folks!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
On Watching It Live
Congratulations to Papa-look-alike Bayani "BF" Fernando for winning the second installment of Celebrity Duets. Since I was in Urdaneta for an event, Mama, Cui and his girlfriend Mimi trooped to Studio 3 of GMA 7 for the taping of the final show.Glad to hear that they had an awesome time. Ms Gigi Santiago-Lara, my former Client from GMA 7 reserved 3 seats for me. She is such a darling! Love you, Ms Gi! According to Cui, Ogie tried entertaining the audience while they were waiting to shoot some scenes. He asked Regine to sing, then he translated every line to Batanggeno.
Too bad I wasn't able to make it to witness all the action. Nevertheless, Mama had a blast so okay na okay na rin.
Congratulations to BF and to GMA 7. I think this was a more exciting edition and the talents were really good. Until Season 3!
Sunday, November 02, 2008
ON MY BESPWEN'S BIRTHDAY!
She is truly my one and onlyWith a helluva strong personality
She is gorgeous even when placed under pressure
No boulder can destroy her, that's for damn sure!
On her very special day
This simple poem is my way
To tell her how much I love and appreciate her
and how I would fight for her forever and ever.
Love you, my bespwen! Enjoy your day tomorrow!!!
On Another One Of My Favorite Shows
Will it be JC, Bayani or Tsong Joey? Find out next week!!!
Mama, Papa and I are big fans of this show. Especially since everybody knows that my father looks like Bayani Fernando. You don't even need to guess who we are cheering for. But c'mon. BF is all out talaga in his performances. I extremely enjoyed his duet with Pilita.
Joey has a really good voice. First performance pa lang niya, I was really impressed na. So if he wins, okay din lang. Maiiyak lang ang tatay ko.
Si JC? Hay naku, mayaman lang ang mga clients niya kaya pa siya nandiyan. He probably got GMA and Cory Aquino's whole household to vote for him every minute of the day. And ang mga ka-duet... Yasmien Kurdi, Lovie Poe?! What the hell?!
Sana si Carlene na lang than him. But sabi nga ng Mama ko, siya na ang 'poorest' sa natira, meaning, her resources are the pinaka-mahina.
So let's see who wins! Haaayyy, two big finales this week! So exciting!
Mama, Papa and I are big fans of this show. Especially since everybody knows that my father looks like Bayani Fernando. You don't even need to guess who we are cheering for. But c'mon. BF is all out talaga in his performances. I extremely enjoyed his duet with Pilita.
Joey has a really good voice. First performance pa lang niya, I was really impressed na. So if he wins, okay din lang. Maiiyak lang ang tatay ko.
Si JC? Hay naku, mayaman lang ang mga clients niya kaya pa siya nandiyan. He probably got GMA and Cory Aquino's whole household to vote for him every minute of the day. And ang mga ka-duet... Yasmien Kurdi, Lovie Poe?! What the hell?!
Sana si Carlene na lang than him. But sabi nga ng Mama ko, siya na ang 'poorest' sa natira, meaning, her resources are the pinaka-mahina.So let's see who wins! Haaayyy, two big finales this week! So exciting!
On Getting Myself Inked
I am planning to get this tattooed on my left leg (just above my ankle). K.A. just got two new tattoos and now, more than ever, I am super determined to get one myself. I'll keep you posted if I do decide to take the plunge. For now, this YEAR OF THE RAM sign will remain but a jpeg file on my desktop.
On My New Fashion Find
I really take good care of my nails. And I have been going regularly to Princess Carol in BF Homes for my mani and pedi. A couple of weeks ago, I had them put on this dark shade of blue from Face Shop. And even after a week, my nails still looked super fine. The paint didn't chip off easily.Yesterday, I had my Princess Carol ladies use this red shade naman that you see on the photo. It looks chic on me, I swear! And the paint dries up really fast so I cut down on my waiting time. I love, love, love FACE SHOP nail paint so I bought four (4) this afternoon at Powerplant.
Got the blue (the first one they put on me at Princess Carol), the red I'm wearing now, this brownish-reddish color and purple! Yipee!
So ladies, troop on over to Face Shop and get your hands on some of the bottles too!
On My Super Favorite Pinoy Reality Series
My hats off to the creators of Project Runway Philippines. I got really hooked to this show! 10 - 11PM every Wednesday turned out to be a sacred hour, as I watched our local designers strut their stuff down the runway.I completely agree with most of the reviews. Teresa is such a fresh face and most certainly the biggest asset of the show. Jojie's "Work, work, work" line is a funny spin to lovely Tim Gunn's "Make it Work". Getting Imelda Marcos on the show was super cool too! She is THE fashion icon and kudos to PRP for featuring her! Wish it were Imee though who judged the actual challenge. Met her and she is supah fab!
My bet was Jaz, although I voted for Philipp in ETC's Fan Fave promo (hahaha, I am that obsessed talaga!). Super sad ako when Jaz was voted out. Think Aries would win simply because he has been consistent and really innovative. His creations are nicely executed and well thought of. Plus, he won a lot of challenges. Philipp is a nice guy, but you know what they say... nice guys finish last. Si Veejay? Ang lousy mag-English ng lola pero best actress siya! Okay rin if manalo siya.
Overall, it was a terrific show. And I am sad that it's coming to a close next Wednesday. But I saw plugs already for a Season 2 so that's something to look forward to.
By the way, I saw Bo and Mara separately at Powerplant in Rockwell. When I saw Mara, her hair was already that from the Reunion Special. She is so laid back and rocker chic talaga. Wanted to have my picture taken with her pero Powerplant eh. Haha. If it were in Megamall, baka mas kina-reer ko. Saw Bo naman having coffee at Starbucks with some friends/clients. He was one of those na I didn't really like so wala lang. It was nice lang to see him in person.
I swear though, if nakita ko si Jaz or Philipp, pa-picture talaga ako! =)
Can't wait to see who bags the prize!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
On One Helluva Challenge!
It was a riot during our last NESTLE COFFEE-MATE BARANGAY CHALLENGE at Tondo, Manila! Two chosen barangays in the said city competed for the title MODEL BARANGAY. Each had to decorate their barangay from head to toe with Nestle Coffee-mate streamers, banderitas and posters. I was assigned to oversee Barangay 5. And this was where this cute tabachingching baby boy lived. I carried him around the barangay and I swear, I was SO, SO tempted to bring him home with me! He's super heavy and very malambing. I want one of my own!!! Hahaha!Well, tsaka na ako. Si Mona muna (girl on my right and my former Account Executive). She is 8 weeks pregnant! Congratulations, my dearest!
Our Trece Martirez run is tomorrow. Gotta do the final preparations...
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
On Being The Luckiest Daughter In The World
My Panda just celebrated his 72nd birthday last July 25. We set up this streamer, plus an arc balloon at our sala, and boy was he S-U-R-P-R-I-S-E-D!!! We love you Fred Flintstone!!!
On Being Around Celebrities Everyday
I wasn't aware that I had celebrities for employees! Happy birthday, my dear brainbeam girls and boy! =)
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
On My New, Sweet Obsession
I am SO, SO, SO in love with this guy!!! He is my Dan, from the popular teen show Gossip Girl. Yes, TEEN. I feel like a freakin' teenager every time I see him on TV. This morning, I caught the latest episode where he kissed Georgina, his girlfriend Serena's (and the bida of the show) arch enemy, because he thought Serena was cheating on him. Up till this very second, my heart's still filled with sadness because of that ep! I love Dan and Serena (yes, even if I'm obsessed with him, they really are the perfect couple) and I can't stand that bitch Georgina! Hahaha! Gossip Girl made me blog again. How nice. XOXO, Melina.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
On Mama's Golden Moment
Today is Mama's 65th birthday. We treated her to a very special surprise birthday dinner last night at the Naida Room of Conti's BF. She was evidently very happy seeing everyone there! Dex and I were talking this morning and we were certain this party would be the topic of the week.The food was great! Mama got a lot of gifts too! And being in the company of family and friends really made the night very memorable. I went all out preparing for the birthday surprise, to show Mama how much we love and appreciate her. Thank you to everyone who made last night a tremendous success!
Monday, January 07, 2008
On Welcoming The New Year
It's been ages, I know. Thanks to the power of Destiny Cable, I finally have an Internet connection here in my room. And there are many more things to be thankful for. The past year has been UNBELIEVABLY generous to me. I feel like I'm God's favorite child after the many wonderful blessings He has so graciously showered upon me.
1) Was able to send Mama and Papa to Singapore for a "honeymoon". Gracias to Cuz for making their trip extra fun and hassle-free.
2) Although there were some who left and will be leaving the company, I'm happy to welcome those who will be joining our family. With God's good graces, I am confident that my team will be stronger and more powerful than ever!
3) Bespwen and I were still able to support the 'Pelikulang Pilipino'. Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo was fun. Loved the character of the stepbrother of Angie. Resiklo was lousy but Dingdong Dantes was worth my every penny. Still happy to know that Bespwen is still my Bespwen.
4) Spent time with Cuz at Bora. Was able to relax and talk about life. That was so good.
5) Spent time too with Hicky and Stanny. Kudos to Chito and Hicky on their engagement. I'm elated! And a beach party for a reception... Gotta start working out!
6) Projects galore. Magnus, Vanessa, Missy and the whole IHN family, Carol, Maureen Guiao, Steff and Kristy, Carlos and Ms Jinn... our Robinsons bosses, Ms Eunice and Ms Shiels and their astig marketing officers, Star and Marizel, Papa Gary. My suppliers... Priority 1, 2 and 3 plus Gerric Yo. I bet I forgot someone...
7) Everyone's in the best of health. My family, my team, Sweets.
8) Ahh... Sweets. How sweet it is to be loved by you.
C'mon 2008, I'm ready for you!
Saturday, April 14, 2007
On Turning 28
I've reached the point in my life where everything is just how I want it. Well, not EVERYTHING. But it's almost as if I have conquered the world and God's giving out the lotto jackpot with me as his target (yey!)!
I have been extremely blessed the past year. And who would have ever thought that God had more plans up His sleeve. The agency is overflowing with projects that I am actually here at work now finishing a lot of stuff. It's a Saturday, for crying out loud! I should be in my room watching Startalk....
My team surprised me the night before my birthday and it's fantastic to feel loved and appreciated. I was able to take my parents on a romantic trip to Singapore and my brothers are doing well in school. I have ten cute little babies, all of whom now have their fab stroller to sleep in. I've been super active in church, serving as the president of the Lectors & Commentator's Guild and it's been an awesome ride. I'm teaching in Assumption this June. I've been wanting to teach since God knows when and now, I have this chance to give back to my Alma Mater and show the new AC girls some tricks of the trade.
And I have this light beaming from within me, an inner glow that has been undeniable all because of this one great love I never thought I'd ever find.
This life is precious and I thank God for it. I thank Him every day for being so generous and protecting of me.
Now it's time to start another year. And I know it'll be absolutely kick-ass.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
On A Sad Departure
Although I get impatient with his kakulitan at times, I can't help but get teary-eyed at the thought that TOBEN will be leaving the company. He is already transferring to Cavite and with the distance and all, he might not be able to meet the demands of his job, especially now that we have CHUCKIE set-ups so early in the morning (as in 3am!)
I will miss my first-ever driver. More than a driver, he's been a confidante and friend. He has remained loyal and trustworthy and for that I will be forever grateful. I will surely miss our exchange of stories while stuck in traffic, or how he immediately asks me for toll money so that he doesn't need to wake me up when I fall asleep, or how he speeds up when he knows I am extremely late for a meeting.
TOBEN, it's been a fun ride with you and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the service you have rendered to brainbeam. With this is my prayer, that you will continue to be safe in the rest of your life's journeys. God be with you and your family always.
I will miss my first-ever driver. More than a driver, he's been a confidante and friend. He has remained loyal and trustworthy and for that I will be forever grateful. I will surely miss our exchange of stories while stuck in traffic, or how he immediately asks me for toll money so that he doesn't need to wake me up when I fall asleep, or how he speeds up when he knows I am extremely late for a meeting.
TOBEN, it's been a fun ride with you and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the service you have rendered to brainbeam. With this is my prayer, that you will continue to be safe in the rest of your life's journeys. God be with you and your family always.
Monday, February 26, 2007
On Their Upcoming Honeymoon!
I promised Panda and Mumski that I will send them to Singapore at the start of the year. Because of my hectic schedule, I wasn't able to polish the plans. But all is set, and my parents are scheduled to leave this March 1!I've already booked them their flight and I'm going to give them their shopping money later. =) Still having problems though with their accommodations, as all the good hotels are fully booked! Haaayyy... Super photo finish. I tried one last hotel and I'll know of their availability tomorrow. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
They are SUPER excited! Hindi na nga ata nakakatulog ang dalawa. I have been so blessed last year and I want them to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Cuz will be touring them around SG and I can't wait for them to see the Night Safari and Sentosa!
Panda, Mumski, thank you for EVERYTHING you have done and sacrificed for me and my brothers. Enjoy Singapore! And hopefully, I can send you to more trips in the future. Have a wonderful time! You both deserve it!
Saturday, February 17, 2007
On My Authentic Chinese Man
Happy New Year of the Pig, everyone!
I've known Bru for almost 7 years now and it was only yesterday when I realized how Chinese-y he really is. We supervised our PLDT Budget Card event in Binondo yesterday and I've never had so much fun in Chinatown!
Bru drove and his driving skills are quite commendable! We had a BIG breakfast at one of the authentic Chinese restos there. Look at Bru pouring tea to his cup. Bagay na bagay sa kanya. Natural na natural tignan. And side note... the shrimp dumplings were yummy!!!
Then we went around Ongpin and bought some really cool stuff. Was able to buy a pair of red pumps and siya naman, brown sandals. Also bought a big ring (with a yellow crystal on it) from one of the stores. While going around, Bru saw this cart that sells yellow watermelons. Here he is buying a slice. Masarap daw sabi niya.
Today, we're going back there again and I'm sure we're up for more adventures. Thanks for this awesome day, Bru! ;)
On Fifty Questions (from Love Anover's Multiply site)
Love!!! Cute ng 50 questions mo, mare. My turn to answer...
1. How tall are you barefoot?
First question pa lang, napikon na agad ako. Hmp! 4'11.
2. Have you ever smoked?
Ages ako. Never liked it.
3. Do you own a gun? And do you know how to use it?
Sa lakas kong magsalita (at sumigaw), I don't need one. ;)
4. Who is/are your best friend/s?
Bespwen Rika. Nel (can't wait to go around NY with you!). K.A. Of course, Sweets (yihee!)
5. Do you get nervous before "meeting the parents"?
Hmm... Not really. My 'ka-lectors' na mga oldies na tell me that I'm the type they'd want their sons to end up with (naks!). Chika is my life talaga. And 'the parents' are ultra nice, thank God!
6. What do you think of hot dogs?
Love 'em! Especially with ketchup.
7. What's your favorite Christmas song?
Merry Christmas Darling. My Mama gets teary-eyed pag Christmas, dati, whenever she hears this kasi. This was when my Papa was still working in Hongkong. And darling talaga tawagan nila. Sweet and romantic! And I also like Winter Wonderland, especially when Cui danced to it nung Prep pa siya, hahaha!
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?
Water.
9. Can you do push ups?
Dati siguro.
10. Is your bathroom clean?
Pwede na.
11. What's your favorite piece of jewelry?
My MELINA gold nameplate necklace and my Charriol bracelet.
12. Do you like painkillers?
I love Omega Pain Killer. Laging masakit legs ko eh. Hilig kasi mag-heels! Hahaha! And Dolfenal for menstrual cramps (too much info yata to...)
13. What is your secret weapon to lure in the opposite sex?
My wit? (lupet!!!)
14. Do you own a knife?
Swiss knife (for events)
15. Do you have a car?
Yes. My super reliable and matipid sa gas na Adventure. I like big cars! RAM ang name niya dahil sa plate number. Which reminds me, rehistro time na pala niya. Hmmm...
16. Middle Name?
Fontejon.
17. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment?
Thought 1: Ang traffic siguro mamaya sa Binondo. (We have a PLDT event there for the Chinese New Year)
Thought 2: Mag-co-commute ako! Been a long time...
Thought 3: I miss payatot...
18. Name the last 3 things you have bought:
All from Binondo yesterday:
Red pumps
Gold ring (big yellow cystal)
Three huge heads of cauliflower (ulam namin mamaya to, for sure!)
19. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink:
Buko juice
Mango shake
C2
20. What time did you wake up today?
5:15AM. Had a meeting with a Nestle potential client at Starbucks, Cortes, ATC.
22. Current worry?
Madami. The bids I joined. Sana payats gets work na. A personal family thing... Haayyy... I'm a worrywart eh.
23. Current hate?
Bids that we don't win.
24. Favorite place to be?
Right beside Payatot.
Chatuchak. Gusto ko mag shopping lang ng mag-shopping.
25. Least favorite place to be?
Mga ospital.
26. Where would you like to go?
Egypt with Cuz!!!
27. Do you own slippers?
My dad tells me I am the "Little Imelda" of slippers.
28. What shirt are you wearing?
A sleeveless, black top that has a nice, unique neckline.
29. Do you burn or tan?
Proud to be tan.
30. Favorite color(s)?
Purple
Red
Gold
31. Would you be a pirate?
Ay, pwedeng pwede! Di ako 'goody-goody'.
32. Last time you had an alcoholic drink?
Di ako manginginom. Super don't drink anything with alcohol (well, Mule lang, hahaha!).
33. What songs do you sing in the shower?
Mabilis ako maligo. No time to sing.
34. What did you fear was going to get you at night as a child?
Hmmm... Cuz, meron ba? Wala eh. And I sleep in my room alone pa ha.
35. What's in your pocket/s right now?
Nothin' in my pockets.
36. Last thing that made you laugh?
Payats and I posed as 'Emperor' and 'his wife' yesterday at the PLDT booth. Daming nagpa-picture, promise!!!
37. Best bed sheets you had as a child?
I like my bed sheets better now eh.
38. Worst injury you've ever had?
Nahulugan ako ng dos por dos sa ulo during a PLDT event at SM Megamall. One of the backdrops fell kasi. I swear, ang TIGAS ng ulo ko. Buhay pa ko eh! (hahaha!)
40. How many TVs do you have in your house?
4
41. Who is your loudest friend?
MAY mas iingay pa ba sa kin? Oo!!! Si Love Anover at Christine Borillo. Hahaha!
42. Who is your most silent friend?
Tine Vela-Macapagal.
43. Does someone have a crush on you?
Yihee! Madami! Hahaha!
44. Do you wish on shooting stars?
Yes. :)
45. What is your favorite book?
The Alchemist.
46. What is your favorite candy?
Not exactly a fan of candy.
47. What song do/did you want played at your wedding?
Main Song: The Way You Look Tonight
Last Time I'll Fall In Love, Let's Stay Together, How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You
49. What were you doing 12 AM lastnight?
Sleeping na. Had to get up early eh. But at around 12:32AM (looked at my cel kasi), nagising ako coz of my super noisy neighbors singing lousy videoke songs. Wanted to kill them. Papa screamed at them talaga. Thank God they stopped!
50. What was the most expensive thing you bought with your own money?
The RAM.
1. How tall are you barefoot?
First question pa lang, napikon na agad ako. Hmp! 4'11.
2. Have you ever smoked?
Ages ako. Never liked it.
3. Do you own a gun? And do you know how to use it?
Sa lakas kong magsalita (at sumigaw), I don't need one. ;)
4. Who is/are your best friend/s?
Bespwen Rika. Nel (can't wait to go around NY with you!). K.A. Of course, Sweets (yihee!)
5. Do you get nervous before "meeting the parents"?
Hmm... Not really. My 'ka-lectors' na mga oldies na tell me that I'm the type they'd want their sons to end up with (naks!). Chika is my life talaga. And 'the parents' are ultra nice, thank God!
6. What do you think of hot dogs?
Love 'em! Especially with ketchup.
7. What's your favorite Christmas song?
Merry Christmas Darling. My Mama gets teary-eyed pag Christmas, dati, whenever she hears this kasi. This was when my Papa was still working in Hongkong. And darling talaga tawagan nila. Sweet and romantic! And I also like Winter Wonderland, especially when Cui danced to it nung Prep pa siya, hahaha!
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?
Water.
9. Can you do push ups?
Dati siguro.
10. Is your bathroom clean?
Pwede na.
11. What's your favorite piece of jewelry?
My MELINA gold nameplate necklace and my Charriol bracelet.
12. Do you like painkillers?
I love Omega Pain Killer. Laging masakit legs ko eh. Hilig kasi mag-heels! Hahaha! And Dolfenal for menstrual cramps (too much info yata to...)
13. What is your secret weapon to lure in the opposite sex?
My wit? (lupet!!!)
14. Do you own a knife?
Swiss knife (for events)
15. Do you have a car?
Yes. My super reliable and matipid sa gas na Adventure. I like big cars! RAM ang name niya dahil sa plate number. Which reminds me, rehistro time na pala niya. Hmmm...
16. Middle Name?
Fontejon.
17. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment?
Thought 1: Ang traffic siguro mamaya sa Binondo. (We have a PLDT event there for the Chinese New Year)
Thought 2: Mag-co-commute ako! Been a long time...
Thought 3: I miss payatot...
18. Name the last 3 things you have bought:
All from Binondo yesterday:
Red pumps
Gold ring (big yellow cystal)
Three huge heads of cauliflower (ulam namin mamaya to, for sure!)
19. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink:
Buko juice
Mango shake
C2
20. What time did you wake up today?
5:15AM. Had a meeting with a Nestle potential client at Starbucks, Cortes, ATC.
22. Current worry?
Madami. The bids I joined. Sana payats gets work na. A personal family thing... Haayyy... I'm a worrywart eh.
23. Current hate?
Bids that we don't win.
24. Favorite place to be?
Right beside Payatot.
Chatuchak. Gusto ko mag shopping lang ng mag-shopping.
25. Least favorite place to be?
Mga ospital.
26. Where would you like to go?
Egypt with Cuz!!!
27. Do you own slippers?
My dad tells me I am the "Little Imelda" of slippers.
28. What shirt are you wearing?
A sleeveless, black top that has a nice, unique neckline.
29. Do you burn or tan?
Proud to be tan.
30. Favorite color(s)?
Purple
Red
Gold
31. Would you be a pirate?
Ay, pwedeng pwede! Di ako 'goody-goody'.
32. Last time you had an alcoholic drink?
Di ako manginginom. Super don't drink anything with alcohol (well, Mule lang, hahaha!).
33. What songs do you sing in the shower?
Mabilis ako maligo. No time to sing.
34. What did you fear was going to get you at night as a child?
Hmmm... Cuz, meron ba? Wala eh. And I sleep in my room alone pa ha.
35. What's in your pocket/s right now?
Nothin' in my pockets.
36. Last thing that made you laugh?
Payats and I posed as 'Emperor' and 'his wife' yesterday at the PLDT booth. Daming nagpa-picture, promise!!!
37. Best bed sheets you had as a child?
I like my bed sheets better now eh.
38. Worst injury you've ever had?
Nahulugan ako ng dos por dos sa ulo during a PLDT event at SM Megamall. One of the backdrops fell kasi. I swear, ang TIGAS ng ulo ko. Buhay pa ko eh! (hahaha!)
40. How many TVs do you have in your house?
4
41. Who is your loudest friend?
MAY mas iingay pa ba sa kin? Oo!!! Si Love Anover at Christine Borillo. Hahaha!
42. Who is your most silent friend?
Tine Vela-Macapagal.
43. Does someone have a crush on you?
Yihee! Madami! Hahaha!
44. Do you wish on shooting stars?
Yes. :)
45. What is your favorite book?
The Alchemist.
46. What is your favorite candy?
Not exactly a fan of candy.
47. What song do/did you want played at your wedding?
Main Song: The Way You Look Tonight
Last Time I'll Fall In Love, Let's Stay Together, How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You
49. What were you doing 12 AM lastnight?
Sleeping na. Had to get up early eh. But at around 12:32AM (looked at my cel kasi), nagising ako coz of my super noisy neighbors singing lousy videoke songs. Wanted to kill them. Papa screamed at them talaga. Thank God they stopped!
50. What was the most expensive thing you bought with your own money?
The RAM.
Monday, February 05, 2007
On A Stripperrrrific Birthday Surprise
The Set-Up:
EA was sent to Elizabeth Seton to check up on our new CHUCKIE ROADSTER location. Then he was sent to Bespwen's office to deliver my Christmas gift to her, a car plate number cover. Then supposedly, he is to get two (2) CDs from a Goodyear client at Parque Espana, the site of our grand surprise.
The Accomplices:
Bespwen -- Asked her to let EA wait at their lobby up until I tell her that everything was set. She had to leave early though. So we asked EA to proceed to Festival Mall instead to canvass on the prices of children's white rubber slippers that we will be using for our Cupid On The Run PLDT Event. He readily followed my orders.
Parque Front Desk Officer -- We told her that when EA gets in, she is to say that it's Abbie Real (Abbie is my barkada from college) who owns Unit 601, the room where we all were.
Ralph -- He is from the Housekeeping Department of Parque. We told him that once EA gets there, he is to be instructed to stay at the sofa to wait for 'Abbie Real', the girl who has the two CDs. Unfortunately, because of the 'suspicious' set-up, EA didn't want to stay at the sofa. He went back to the lobby so our 'strippers' weren't able to immediately perform their special number.
The Highlights:
Finally called EA to tell him to go to the hotel unit once again. Made up a story that Abbie was in her bedroom when he got in. As soon as he opened the door, one of our strippers pulled him inside the room and they all did their fancy number.
We all came out from the kitchen and the bedroom, complete with our party poppers. EA was shocked to see everyone and was truly touched with the gesture.
He loved his iPOD cake from Art Cakes, his new MP3 player, and most of all, the 'strippers'! A special thanks to the three boys who really made EA's day. We also invited EA's good friend Geoff. The food was yummy and the kwentuhan was priceless!
EA has been so hardworking and dependable and I am happy to have him on my team. And this birthday surprise was our way to thank him for his kindness and loyalty and the non-stop laughter he brings to the agency. We love you, Jang! Stay the same.
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