Kislap

Kumikislap:
Ang tuktok ng parola'y
ilang bituing
pakindat-kindat.

Kumukutitap
ang tahimik
nilang masid
sa mga kaluluwang dala
ng hangin
sa kampong
paraisong laman
ng lawa.

Walang kirat
ang pusyaw ng
langit
habang ang ilang
karit ng alaala
ng aking diwa
ay kasalamuha't
kakindatan
and tuktok ng
parola.


Edited by Randel Urbano
December 28, 2008, 11:28 PM
Kuhang larawan ni redmark sa Tanay, Rizal

UP Film Institute fetes best film of all time "Himala"

I thought the cocoon shape thingie was a flower vase misplaced on the table. I later found out it's the trophy from CNN APSA.

I went to the "Sa Likod ng Himala" event in UP Film Institute's Ishmael Bernal Gallery, Dec 16 and saw Ricky Lee, The Ricky Lee of Philippine Cinema standing infront of me.

Ricky Lee wrote the screenplay of "Himala ('Miracle') which was gloriously adapted to the big screen by the late National Artist for Film Ishmael Bernal.

The Institute paid tribute to the 1982 flick for bagging the CNN APSA Viewers Choice Award for Best Asia-Pacific Film of all Time last month in Queensland, Australia.

The UP Film Institute also screened behind the scenes footage of Himala that ran for some 20 minutes. At some part, the grainy documentary had the feel of an actual eye witness account of a shooting incident. The spritely filmmaker Bernal was so moved, he was heard commenting "ang galing ng ano... realistic!"

Screenwriter Ricky Lee and producer Bibsy Carballo in an open forum said they felt "vindicated" with their work being proclaimed "best film" not by an award-giving body but by nameless individuals of cyberworld who felt the movie deserve such distinction.

"Himala" failed to please most critics when it was first shown in 1982 citing the work was "ahead of its time." [Vilma Santos was cannonized on that awards season as Grand Slam Best Actress for the movie "Relasyon," same director-writer tandem]. Critics however saw the light and embraced the beauty of "Himala" in later years.

The best film which "tells the story of Elsa, a barrio lass whose visions of the Virgin Mary changed her life and caused hysteria in a poor, isolated village" bested cinematic heavyweights like Akira Kurosawa, Satyajit Ray, Wong Kar-wai and Ang Lee (...such names so often seen on pages of Time magazine) from a list made by CNN critics and industry insiders.

Pumikit. Tumingala. Mag-antanda... May himala.

Start:	Dec 16, '08 7:00p
Location:	Ishmael Bernal Gallery, U.P. Diliman

"Sa Likod ng Himala"

Hinugot mula sa UP Film Institute Archives.

Retro screening of the movie-in the-making documentary feature on HIMALA in honor of the big win for the landmark film by National Artist Ishmael Bernal starring superstar Nora Aunor as CNN Online Poll’s Best Asia-Pacific Film of All Time on the occasion of the 2008 Asia Pacific Screen Awards.

Potograpo, sumabit sa alambre, sugatan!

Isang potograpo ang bahagyang nasugatan matapos hindi nito nakita ang nakaharang na alambre sa kanyang dinaraanan habang ito'y pumipitik sa pagsisindi ng mga pailaw sa Valenzuela City hall kagabi.

Kinilala ng kung sino mang manunulat na ito ang biktimang si Mark Lester Cayabyab, 26, binata at nakatira sa Krus na Ligas, Quezon City.

Ayon sa ulat, nagko-cover ng pag-iilaw ng Christmas tree ang binatang potograpo sa nasabing bulwagang panlunsod nang hindi niya napansin ang nakaharang na alambreng sumusuporta sa mga streamers sa labas ng bulwagan. Dagliang napatigil sa pagtakbo ang biktima saka ito napatilapon sa damuhan dahil sa lakas ng pagkakapatid sa kanya ng alambre.

"Medyo nahilo ako dun ah! Parang may nakita pa akong kumukutikutitap na star sa ibabaw ng iilawang tree," kwento ng pinagpapawisan at nanginginig na potograpo sa redmark.multiply.com

Dahil dito, isang sugat ang iniwan ng alambre malapit sa pagitan ng mga mapupungay na mata ng biktima.

Agaran namang humingi ng tulong si Cayabyab sa kanyang mga kasamahan sa hanap-buhay at tumuloy pa rin sa pagpiptik habang tumatakbo (no pun intended hahaha!) ang programa matapos lapatan ng lunas.

Shape of things to come

At the beginning hours of twilight, the night pulled off a stellar spectacle that pressed the world's texting capital to a frenzy of group messages telling everyone to see the Smiley formation some degrees above the southwest horizon.

Space agency NASA on its website describes this phenomenon as a "spectacular conjunction of three Moon, Venus and Jupiter." This night of December 1 would be the peak of the alignment of these celestial bodies.

"The now-15% crescent Moon moves in closer to form an isosceles triangle with Venus and Jupiter as opposing vertices. The three brightest objects in the night sky will be gathered so tightly together, you can hide them all behind your thumb held at arm's length," the website explained.

On the other parts of the globe, bloggers waxxed poetry and expressed sentiments reflecting their current issues...

In Thailand (http://eslblogs.englishclub.com/english/curiosities/smiling-moon/):

Blogger A: What does it mean?
Blogger B: The Smiling Moon did say something and I wish Thailand, the land of Smiles, have its people united.

In Mumbai (http://www.nowpublic.com/world/smiling-moon-hope-shines-down-mumbai-tonight-december-1-2008): Ravi Dixi said, "it seems that the moon aided by the two stars was trying to give a message of hope and assuaging the injuries that the entire population of this bruised city suffered in the last few days."

At the homefront: nothing but sweet smiles and sparkling eyes punctuating THE conversation that embraced the art of letting go.

:)

Shape of things to come.

Photos taken along Ortigas Avenue extention bridge in Pasig City.

-Mark Lester Cayabyab

Sugar rush

Tired from work, the car passed by a Goldilock's store in traffic-choked Laon Laan.

With my eyes looking at the store's signage, I came to realize it was the very same Goldilock's were I got my only Goldilock's birthday cake for the only kiddie birthday party I ever had.

I was five then. It's not clear though whom I was with when I went to that store. Mama was working in Kuwait and wont be home for my birthday. So, together with a birthday card that had a cute baby pig illustration on it, she blew me a kiss across the sea and I had to follow that kiss to that airconditioned sweet smelling Goldilock's.

I remember how my name being called out over the microphone lit up my face and brought my happy feet to a shy hesitant walk. I could barely put my arms on the cake's box. But wanton joy had embraced me.

A sugar rush. That was really sweet. Not on my lips but on a sweet childhood memory to cherish.

ANHS Pugad99ers Alumni Homecoming 2nd General Assembly

Start:	Nov 30, '08 2:00p
Location:	Antipolo National High School main campus

Grumaduate ka ba from Antiplolo National High School noong March 29, 1999?

Sa Antipolo Plaza na ngayon ay Plaza Dimasalang na?

Na si Angelito G. Gatlabayan pa ang alkalde ng lungsod, na ngayon ay Kinatawan ng Unang Distrito ng lungsod?

Na dati'y nasa edad 16 pa tayo... ngayon ay edad 26 na?

Haha! Manumbalik sa dating pugad matapos ang isang dekada.

Paghandaan ang isang makabuluhang pagtitipon.

Contact persons:
Girlie 0927-6507117
Rachelle 0918-7875499
Erwin 0922-8393432

Going, going, vegan

One July morning, I woke up to drum beats as I lay like a leaf on my bunk. Having my bed positioned just beside the glass window, I saw this pupils in a long stream of white school uniform along Lt. J. Francisco in Krus Na Ligas.

I rushed to the dorm's roof deck and I was amazed to see something that I used to do in school. With hand drawn placards, some of the pupils were carrying vegetables. Eggplants. Tomatoes. Carrots. Green leafy vegetables. Some stuff that could had been Krus na Ligas' version of Italian veggie mayhem if these kids were provoked. But the pupils held the vegetables as if it's Palm Sunday.

That was Nutrition Month in an alley of food preservatives, burger stands, and carcinogen on sticks.

Lipad, Pugad 99ers! Lipad!

Kami ang Pugad 99ers.

The Antipolo National High School class of 1999 led by its class valedictorian Girlie Nombres formally launched its plans of holding its first grand alumni homecoming, last November 16 at the school's Math center on the main campus

Some 17 former students forged their commitment and resources to stage a fun yet meaningful reunion gig slated on March next year. An organizing committee was helmed that will spearhead in gathering and mobilizing all efforts in ensuring the reunion's success.

The batch will be collectively known as "Pugad 99ers." Erwin dela Cruz, speaking in behalf of the organizing committee said the batch wanted to deviate from the typical fares offered by other reunions, hence the "casual barkada-ish" name. "Pugad 99ers" drew inspiration from the revered education institution nestled in a sprawling campus straddling the hills of Cogeo in Antipolo.

Antipolo National High School was then the largest secondary school in the entire Region 4 in terms of student population.

In addition to that, action plans on promotions and marketing were laid out that will stir awareness and participation from "ka-Pugad" former students. The official logo was also formally presented to the batch.

The demographically diverse class of 1999 produced a total of 1,564 graduates from 24 sections. "The number itself speaks of a challenge," dela Cruz noted.

Pugad 99ers were unfazed though and will convene again for a series of "pugad building" activities on Nov. 30, Sunday on the same venue. Graduates of ANHS 1999 are strongly encouraged to attend and join its e-groups: and Pugad99ers on Friendster Groups.


-Mark Lester Cayabyab, Pugad99er

From a Rapist's Point of View

Jim Paredes wrote: Katipunan , QC incident

Dear friends,

Many of you may not have heard of the incident that happened to a friend of my son last week at about 6:30 pm right in front of the thickly-populated area of BPI-Katipunan, near shoppersville. she parked her car right in front of BPI to make a withdrawal and to do some groceries.

As she was getting into her car after doing her chores, a man suddenly appeared beside her and tried to bully her into moving to the passenger seat. when she pressed her car horn to call attention, he pushed her in the car and pinned her down with his elbow on her neck. it was a good thing that she had the presence of mind to continue to struggle and press on her car horn to catch attention (even if she had to use her foot to do this) Her assailant even tried to make people believe that it was a domestic matter by telling the crowd not to get involved as it was a 'private matter'. But with the onlookers multiplying by the second, her assailant finally gave up and ran that was when she stood up and shouted for help. Thank God the guy got caught and is now under police custody.

Last saturday, during the inquest, she told me that what gave her the guts to fight her assailant was the article 'THROUGH A RAPIST'S EYES' forwarded to our e-groups! about a week prior to her attack. I am re-forwarding the article (you can find it at the bottom of this (e-mail) for everyone's benefit. please tell your friends, family, and loved ones about this. It works. may i just add that to a certain extent, we have to get ourselves involved if we see violence being committed on anyone like calling on a security guard or a police officer even if it appears to be a domestic matter. It seems that a lot of attackers use that tactic to get away with violence. Not many people know how to take care of themselves when faced with such a situation. Everyone, please be very, very careful.

THOUGHT THIS WAS GOOD INFO TO PASS ALONG...

FYI
- Through a rapist's eyes! A group of rapists and date rapists in prison were interviewed on what they look for in a potential victim and here are some interesting facts:

1] The first thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, bun! , braid or other hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. They are also likely to go after a woman with long hair. Women with short hair are not common targets.

2] The second thing men look for is clothing. They will look for women who's clothing is easy to remove quickly. Many of them carry scissors around to cut clothing.

3] They also look for women using their cell phone, searching through their purse or doing other activities while walking because they are off guard and can be easily overpowered.

4] The number one place women are abducted from / attacked at is grocery store parking lots.

5] Number two is office parking lots/garages.

6] Number three is public restrooms.

7] The thing about these men is that they are looking to grab a woman and quickly move her to a second location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.

8] If you put up any kind of a fight at all, they get discouraged because it only takes a minute or two for them to realize that going after you isn't worth it because it will be time-consuming.

9] These men said they would not pick on women who have umbrellas,or other similar objects that can be used from a distance, in their hands.

10] Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it.

POINTS THAT WE SHOULD REMEMBER:=20

1] If someone is following behind you on a street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or stairwell, look them in the face and ask them a question, like what time is it, or make general small talk: can't believe it is so cold out here, we're in for a bad winter. Now that you've seen their faces and could identify them in a line- up, you lose appeal as a target.

2] If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you and yell Stop or Stay back! Most of the rapists this man talked to said they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target.

3] If you carry pepper spray (this instructor was a huge advocate of it and carries it with him wherever he goes,) yelling I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY and holding it out will be a deterrent.

4] If someone grabs you, you can't beat them with strength but you can do it by outsmarting them. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm between the elbow and armpit or in the upper inner thigh - HARD. One woman in a class this guy taught told him she used the underarm pinch on a guy who was trying to date rape her and was so upset she broke through the skin and tore out muscle strands the guy needed stitches. Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it; it really hurts.

5] After the initial hit, always go for the groin. I know from a particularly unfortunate experience that if you slap a guy's parts it is extremely painful. You might think that you'll anger the guy and make him want to hurt you more, but the thing these rapists told our instructor is that they want a woman who will not cause him a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble, and he's out of there.

6] When the guy puts his hands up to you, grab his first two fingers and bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. The instructor did it to me without using much pressure, and I ended up on my knees and both knuckles cracked audibly.

7] Of course the things we always hear still apply. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd behavior, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts. You may feel a little silly at the time, but you'd feel much worse if the guy really was trouble.

FINALLY, PLEASE REMEMBER THESE AS WELL ....

I know you are smart enough to know these pointers but there will be some, where you will go 'hmm I must remember that' After reading, forward it to someone you care about, never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do it.

2. Learned this from a tourist guide to New Orleans : if a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you.... chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you and he will go for the wallet/purse. RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car: Kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping,eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc. DON'T DO THIS! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go. AS SOON AS YOU CLOSE the DOORS , LEAVE.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:
a. Be aware: look around your car as someone may be hiding at the passenger side , peek into your car, inside the passenger side floor, and in the back seat. (DO THIS TOO BEFORE RIDING A TAXI CAB) .

b. If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

c. Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out. IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs.

(Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot).

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; And even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN!

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP IT! It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked 'for help' into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

I'd like you to forward this to all the women you know. It may save a life. A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle. I was going to send this to the ladies only, but guys, if you love your mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, etc., you may want to pass it onto them, as well.

Send this to any woman you know that may need to be reminded that the world we live in has a lot of crazies in it and it's better safe than sorry.

Jim Paredes
The Maverick

Chapter 26

Self-portrait while on a speeding pick-up at the then soon-to-be-opened SCTEx. It's me in my best element. :)

Image taken on February 9, 2008.

Love at first padyak

After being made envious by weekend bikers back home in Antipolo and was inspired by cyclists at the recent SCTEx 94K Weekend, I finally clinched a step closer to a healthier me with less carbon footprint by taking this bike (yey bike!) into my custody.

It's a second-hand piece of metal contraption salvaged from a friend's bodega. Though it is scabbed with rust, tires gone flat, the front brake isn't working, and bears other signs of wear ang tear (See the water bottle? It's brittle na rin.), a little help will bring this rickety thing back to life.

It's love at first padyak. It may take some time to upgrade my bike (yey bike!) considering I'm living on a dormer's budget. But then, if one desires to reach Point B from Point A, one has to work on it one padyak at a time.

I have been brought to you by the number 6

It's the decade of self-commodification. It's the era of custom-built what-have-yous. It's whatever gone gaga.

Photofunia.com na and it's for free!

Backpacking Around The World: Pinoy Style

Start:	Aug 12, '08 7:00p
End:	Aug 12, '08 9:00p
Location:	R.O.X., Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Backpacking Around The World: Pinoy Style

Location: ROX -CORE (Center for Outdoor Recreation and Expedition), R.O.X., Bonifacio Global City

"Due to public demand, we are doing the backpacking talk for the 3rd time! Learn expert tips and hear stories of our Pinoy backpackers on Aug 12, 2008 at ROX."

"Register by emailing us your full name and mobile number at rox.cs@primergrp.com."

Admission is Free.

The Butterfly Dance popularized by the Universal Motion Dancers

But who is Maztakilla?

Anong kwento ko?

"Anong kwento mo?" bungad ng isang dambuhalang tarpaulin ng Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival 2008 sa CCP Tanghalang Pambansa.

"Bakit ikaw lang mag-isa?" Dugtong pa niya. "Nasaan sila?"

"Potah ewan," sagot ko. "May mga trabaho. O baka may tinatrabaho. Char!"

"Keri na. Pasok ka na; papatapos na yung show ni Adela."

At dahil ako ay nahuli sa opening film at walang oras magbabad sa higanteng blokeng gusali, inaliw ko na lamang ang aking sarili sa paglaro ng liwanag.

Ang still kamera. Kahit sa isang pitik, sa kwento'y hitik. :D

The Cinemalaya 2008 runs from July 11 to 20, 2008 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Tanghalang Pambansa. Tickets: P100 (flash your school ID and you'll get 50% discount, P350 for a day pass. But if you're filthy loaded and uber hungry for great Pinoy indie flicks, shell out P950 for a mahiwagang festival pass.

Kadangyan performs at the Adventure Philippines seminar

It was Philippine-American Friendship Day at the Hotel Stotsenberg in Clark Special Economic Zone when Kadangyan, an ethno-tribal rock quintet performed for the the guests of Adventure Philippines' Seminar on Adventure Tourism. There were a number of foreigners (who are experts in adventure tourism industry) around but the distinct Pinoy atmosphere was abound. Thanks to these guys, their music is one good reason why it's rockin' nice to be Pinoy. :)

Visit them at www.kadangyanband.multiply.com

"KADANGYAN is an Ifugao term which means “Rich in Culture”.

The band started from a group of visual and performing artists who shared the same passion and advocacy then they decided to venture into music.

After few performances and positive feedbacks from the audience, came more invitations from different event organizers all over Cebu, and there it started. The band was officially formed on the month of October way back year 2000.

With members coming from the different parts of the country. Kadangyan produced songs that were very distinctive and unique using Filipino indigenous instruments which were mostly hand crafted.

Now KADANGYAN specializes in ethno-tribal rock music, and likewise plays in an acoustic set-up, provides natural ambient music and performs different kinds of Filipino native rituals on music bars, on-stage, theatres, universities, conventions or even on private parties and special gatherings.

As what KADANGYAN always says that “The beauty of every place in the world is it’s own culture!”…

MEMBERS:

* || Bhava Mitra || A pure native Igorot, Baguio City, Luzon
* vocals, mityapi, acoustic guitar, native flute & kubing

* || Govinda || Iligan City, Mindanao
* Back up vocals
Bidjang, kubing, budjong & devils- water chimes

* || Agit || Samar, Visayas
* Bass and other percussions

* || Saryu || Cebu
* Drums, tukatok and other percussions

* || Bhakta || Tacloban City , Visayas
* Back-up vocals, gabang (bamboo xylophone), d'jembe"

We Shall Come to Eiga Sai 2008

Start:	Jul 8, '08
End:	Aug 16, '08
Location:	Shangri-La Plaza Cinema Cinema 3, CCP Dream Theater, UP Film Institute

It's the time of the year for some silver screen sashimi! Feast on five contemporary, one classical and two animae/manga films in 35mm format FOR FREE from the land of the rising sun!

Opening film will be "We Shall Overcome Someday (Pacchigi)" by director Kazuyuki Izutsu. The Japan Foundation website said," the film story tells about the situation during the 1960’s in Japan, the romance between a Japanese and an ethnic North Korean high school student, the sets of cultural differences intertwined by love and passion conquering its boundaries, which is torn by the realities of issues of life that still prevails. Likewise, it deals with music, sexual liberation, freedom and about doing what you want. We Shall Overcome Someday was ranked as the best Japanese film by the venerable Kinema Junpo in 2005."

SHANGRI-LA PLAZA

July 8 (Tue) 7:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday

July 9 (Wed) 2:00 PM Hanging Garden
4:00 PM Canary
6:00 PM A Stranger of Mine
8:00 PM Juvenile Jungle

July 10 (Thu) 2:00 PM Hanging Garden
4:00 PM Linda Linda Linda
6:00 PM Juvenile Jungle
8:00 PM A Stranger of Mine

July 11 (Fri) 2:00 PM Canary
4:00 PM Hanging Garden
6:00 PM Linda Linda Linda
8:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday

July 12 (Sat) 2:00 PM Linda Linda Linda
4:00 PM Canary
6:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday
8:00 PM A Stranger of Mine

July 13 (Sun) 2:00 PM A Stranger of Mine
4:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday
6:00 PM Juvenile Jungle
8:00 PM Linda Linda Linda
J-POP ANIME MATSURI
July 26 (Sat) 11:30 AM Doraemon
1:30 PM Doraemon
4:00 PM Chibi Maruko Chan (Movie)
6:00 PM The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
8:00 PM Chibi Maruko Chan (Movie)

July 27 (Sun) 11:30 AM Doraemon
2:00 PM The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
5:00 PM Chibi Maruko Chan (Movie)
8:00 PM The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES

Aug 7 (Thu) 2:00 PM Canary
5:00 PM Juvenile Jungle
7:00 PM Hanging Garden

Aug 8 (Fri) 2:00 PM A Stranger of Mine
5:00 PM Juvenile Jungle
7:00 PM Canary

Aug 9 (Sat) 2:00 PM Linda Linda Linda
5:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday
7:00 PM A Stranger of Mine

Aug 10 (Sun) 2:00 PM Chibi Maruko Chan (Movie)
5:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday
7:00 PM Linda Linda Linda

UP FILM INSTITUTE

Aug 11 (Mon) 4:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday
7:00 PM Linda Linda Linda

Aug 12 (Tue) 4:00 PM Juvenile Jungle
7:00 PM Hanging Garden

Aug 13 (Wed) 4:00 PM A Stranger of Mine
7:00 PM Canary

Aug 14 (Thu) 4:00 PM Canary
7:00 PM We Shall Overcome Someday

Aug 16 (Sat) 4:00 PM Chibi Maruko Chan (Movie)
7:00 PM A Stranger of Mine

Featured films are subtitled in English as usual. For more synopsis and schedule, leap thru: http://www.jfmo.org.ph/events_eigasai08.htm

"Comm-mustahan: PUP Masscom Alumni's Night"

Start:	Aug 2, '08 6:00p
End:	Aug 24, '08
Location:	PUP-CoC carpark saan pa? :D

Calling all alumni of PUP Masscom (Broadcast Comm. and Journalism) to attend the Alumni homecoming dubbed as "Comm-mustahan: PUP Masscom Alumni's Night" on August 2, 2008; 6PM at the College of Communication Carpark, Anonas St. Sta. Mesa, Manila. For inquiries, contact the Alumni Secretariat at 7138412/7137653 or text 09163650430 and look for Prof. Racidon Bernarte.

Filipinos are top Multiply users

from:  ABS-CBN online

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryID=122308

Filipinos are top Multiply users

By DAVID DIZON
abs-cbnNEWS.com

A third of the traffic going to social networking site Multiply, or approximately 300 million page views, is coming from Filipino users worldwide, top Multiply executives said Wednesday.

Multiply president and founder Peter Pezaris said Multiply gets about a billion page views a month, a third of which comes from Filipinos in different parts of the globe. This makes Filipinos the number one users of Multiply, ranking higher than users in the United States where the site is based.

Pezaris said the Filipino culture's emphasis on family and relationships is the main reason why the social networking site is so popular in the Philippines.

"The reason why we are popular here, I think, relates to that notion of friends and family, the fact that our service is much more focused on connecting you with people that you know in real life rather than introducing you to people that you don’t know. It’s a site that really plays into the cultural phenomenon that’s here in the Philippines," he told abs-cbnNEWS.com.

David Hersh, Multiply vice-president for business development, also said the integration of unlimited photosharing in Multiply is very attractive to Filipino Internet users. Most Filipino Multiply users are female, in the 18-25 age bracket, and average about 160 Multiply page views a month.

"Filipinos are just rabid consumers of content. It’s amazing. Those 160 page views aren’t just fluff page views of people bouncing from profile to profile. It’s people consuming photos, videos and blogs from the people in their world. It’s meaningful activity. It reflects the deep level of engagement that we have with our user base especially here in the Philippines," Pezaris said.

Local partner

For the Philippine market, Multiply recently partnered with ABS-CBN Interactive to tap local advertisers and launch mobile services for Filipino Multiply users. (Disclosure: Abs-cbnNEWS.com is run by ABS-CBN Interactive.)

Paolo Pineda, ABS-CBN Interactive managing director, said the company is the exclusive reseller of advertising on Multiply for the Philippines. He said ABS-CBN Interactive will also be actively campaigning to build Multiply's user base in the country.

Related links

• ‘We put a lot of emphasis on connecting with people in the real world’
• (Video) The ABS-CBN-Multiply Trade Event

One of the successful Multiply communities launched by ABS-CBN Interactive centered on the Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition Plus show. The show now has two sites - the official one where profiles and schedules are posted and a Multiply site where PBB fans can go online.

Pineda said one local call center that advertised on Multiply was able to attract recruits through its Multiply community site.

"It’s more of these community building efforts online for Filipinos worldwide. We want to really try to populate the brand and get more people to understand it and work on the advertising and get the brands to see that this is really a safe place to put your brand in," he said.

Real-world relationships

Hersh said Multiply currently has nine million registered users worldwide, of which 2.2 million are Filipinos. He said that while the growth of Multiply has been slower compared to other social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook, it is the real-world relationships in Multiply that sets it apart and ensures its longevity.

"If your online social network is full of people that you have no real world connection to, there’s very little reason to keep you there and it’s very easy for you to switch. But on Multiply, it’s your real-world social network online and your content and it’s the discussion that goes on around that content that’s going to keep you coming back," he said.

Adds Pezaris: "It’s closer, deeper relationships which enables the sharing of personal, meaningful content to you and the continuing sharing of that is the personal documentation of your life online. Over a period of time, you build up this history like a living scrapbook of what’s happening in your life and it’s a collaborative effort because while you add to it, all your friends and family add to it also and that’s what really develops the long-term value."

Summer shone after the storm

Weary folks of Media Meter trooped to the Camayan Beach Resort in Subic for the annual communion with the Mighty Sun last May 28. But storm came and blocked our sunlight. The sea roared and raindrops pelted on our skin.

We took Nature's play of power positively. Rather sulk in our huts and airconditioned rooms (Nice interiors...), we braved the wrath of amihan with child-like glee and wanton surrender.

On this set, summer came brightly the next morning. Brand new day. Gone were the toxins of partying overnight. It was a breath of fresh air before going back to the routine of city living.

Free cleft lip and palate surgery for children

Start:	May 28, '08
End:	May 30, '08
Location:	Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel

If you know children with cleft lip (no age limit) or palate (till 12 y/o), send them to SOFITEL HOTEL to pre-register for a free surgery. Contact CAROL TAMPUS at 551-5555 at HRD for pre-screening on May 22, 2008.

Free surgery is sponsored by CARITAS and OPERATION SMILE. Actual operation is on May 28-30, 2008. Kindly inform others. Thank you.. Pass Around!

Exhausted...

British photographer Tim Hetherington has won the World Press Photo top honor for 2007. "Exhausted," his photograph of a US soldier in the Korengal Valley in the Eastern province of Afghanistan beat more than 80,000 other images submitted this year.

Here's a quick look at the winning images of World Press Photo awards for the year 2007.

Judges described the World Press Photo of the year by Britain's Tim Hetherington for Vanity Fair magazine as an image that shows "the exhaustion of a man - and the exhaustion of a nation".

"We're all connected to this. It's a picture of a man at the end of a line," jury chairman Gary Knight said.

"There's a human quality to this picture," said juror MaryAnne Golon.

"It says that conflict is the basis of this man's life."

World Press Photo is held every year since 1955 and has been regarded as the "world's largest and most prestigious annual press photography contest". A travelling exhibition around the world is also held in line with the organization's concern with "stimulating developments in photojournalism and encouraging transfer of knowledge" initiatives.

Ayala Museum and SM Malls played host to the exhibition for the past two years. Unfortunately, a review of the World Press Photo website showed the Philippines has been excluded for this year's exhibition.

Visit www.worldpressphoto.org for more information. Photos and information from BBC and Australian Broadcasting Company websites.

REALIZING NEW POLITICS with Gov. Grace Padaca, Gov. Ed Panlilio and Nicanor Perlas

Start:	May 16, '08 6:00p
Location:	PETA Theater Center 5 Eymard Drive, E. Rodriguez, Quezon City, Philippines (behind Quezon City Sports Club)

REALIZING NEW POLITICS
with Gov. Grace Padaca, Gov. Ed Panlilio and Nicanor Perlas


P100 (P50 for Students)

"Hope is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense regardless of how it turns out."

~ Vaclav Havel







Is new politics in the horizon? How did it come about? Why is it finally on its way? What are the driving forces behind it? Why does it have a possibility to emerge in 2010?

The struggle for a new Philippines has to take place in the areas of culture, politics, and economics. We come together to focus on the turbulent and highly charged area of politics and ask our burning questions.

www.pagasa.net.ph

phone: +639175251924

Crayon Forum for kids of Quirino Avenue

 

"Enweys, gusto ko lang sana kayong yayain na magvolunteer sa isang writing workshop para sa mga batang nakatira sa ilalim ng tulay.  Sila ay part ng community ng ATD Fourth World check out their site http://www.atd-fourthworld.org/. Di pa namin naseset ang exact date pero malamang Sabado gaganapin to. 

 

Karamihan sa mga batang 'to yung mga namamalimos sa kalye, di makapag-aral kasi walang pera ang mga magulang.  Karamihan sa kanila ang daming galis sa katawan kasi hindi naarawan at nakakaligo kasi yung perang pampaligo nila nilalaan na lang nila sa pagkain nila.  Karamihan sa kanila yung mga batang madudungis na iniiwasan natin sa kalye. 

 

Ang ATD ang isang movement na tinataguyod na magkaroon sila ng dignidad kahit na mahihirap sila.  Madami silang volunteers na nagbibigay ng mga arts and crafts workshops sa mga bata.  Iba't ibang forums naman para sa mga magulang nila. 

 

Hindi pa daw sila nagkakaroon ng writing workshops.  Nakakapanghinayang kasi nung minsang naobserbahan ko ang mga batang kasama sa community nila sobrang creative magdrowing.  Malaki ang chances na hindi pa lang natatap ang imagination nila.

 

Sa ngayon, tatlo pa lang kaming nagcoconfirm dito sa workshop na to.  Pagmimeetingan pa namin ko pano ang modules at kung pano ito ipiprisinta sa mga batang gutom sa kaalaman.  Pero nakapagdesisyon na kami na sa buwan ng Mayo namin gagawin ang event.

 

Kaya hinihikayat ko talaga kayo na tumulong.  Di kailangan na writing workshop din kayo.  Puwedeng arts and crafts.  Puwedeng photography.  Puwedeng basahan niyo sila ng libro.  Puwedeng kahit ano.  Di naman tayo magtatagal.  Isang oras lang naman yun.  Sa may Pandacan o sa kalye dun sa may Quirino Avenue (lugar ng mga holdaper, hehe).

 

Puwede rin namang perang pangmeryenda ng mga bata at gamit para sa workshop (ayan kinakapalan ko na mukha ko). 

 

Sa mga interesado, puwedeng puwede niyo akong i-email: rnavarra@gmail.com.  Puwede rin sa e-mail na ito.  Sa ngayon puro mga kaopisina ko pa lang ang nayaya ko.  Pero iwewelcome rin kayo ng mga batang to. 

 

Salamat!!!"

 

 --Ruth

 

 

--------------------------------------------

 

 

redmark says: Makibahagi tayo, volunteer na!

 

AGOS - Earth Day 2008 Manila celebrations

Start:	Apr 22, '08 07:00a
Location:	Cultural Center of the Philippines

94k concrete!

Billed as the longest highway in the Philippines, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway is expected to change the face of business and leisure in Northern Luzon. As the shortest, most direct and most efficient link connecting the Subic Bay Freeport and the Special Economic Zone in Zambales, the Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga and the Central Techno Park in Tarlac, the SCTex will drive the region’s economic development and create greater opportunities for investment, trade and employment.

Be there when SCTex ushers in the future this April 18-20. The 94K Weekend invites guests to live in the fast lane with a thrilling weekend of family fun and sporting events. From lightning speed test-drives to challenging marathons, the 94K Weekend lets guests experience the best the SCTex has to offer.

For more info: www.94kweekend.com

Prudente, "the best PUP president" dies, 81

Nemesio Prudente, the former president of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and human rights advocate, died Friday morning in a Cavite hospital due to complications after a prostate operation, the Inquirer reported. He was 81.

A good friend and a fellow academician in PUP, Rogelio Ordoñez called "Doc" Prudente as the best President the University ever had. Ordoñez, Editorial Board Chairman of Pinoy Weekly wrote: "Higit sa lahat, naipunla niya sa PUP ang isang edukasyong may makabayang oryentasyon at mulat sa pambansang kalagayan. Ang diwa ng makabayan at makataong aktibismo at paglaban sa inhustisya ang naipunla niya’t napayabong sa PUP. Sa aba naming palagay, sa mga humalili sa kanya, waring wala pa siyang kapantay sa hindi mapag-imbot na dedikasyon at pagmamahal sa PUP at, lalo na nga, sa pagiging makabayang edukador at progresibong intelektuwal."

Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison in his website remembers Prudente as "an outstanding educator. He rose to the position of president of the Philippine College of Commerce and then the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. But most admirable of him was that he promoted and practised that type of education and life of action that is clearly, resolutely and militantly in the service of the Filipino people in their struggle for national liberation, democracy, social justice, development and peace.

"He articulated a progressive nationalist policy and was ever supportive of the students whenever they joined protest mass actions. He also appointed to the faculty patriotic and progressive teachers. Thus, the PCC became one of the most active centers of the anti-imperialist and democratic student movement in the 1960s, in the First Quarter Storm of 1970 and up to the imposition of martial law on the people.

"Before I went underground in late 1968, I had become close to "Doc" Prudente because I had frequent conversations with him and Prof. Teodosio Lansang over subjects encompassing philosophy, political economy and social science in connection with current events. "Doc" Prudente had a revolutionary outlook and was seriously interested in the revolutionary transformation of Philippine society from a semicolonial and semifeudal status to an independent and democratic one.

"He also actively supported the Movement for a Democratic Philippines, the Movement of Concerned Citizens for Civil Liberties and the formation of a workers' institute. He cooperated with the Preparatory Commission of the NDFP and subsequently with the NDFP. He was never cowed by threats of arrest and actual detention. In and out of the fascist prison, he was a model of firm resistance and a modest hardworking man among comrades.

"The enemy could not tolerate his ideas and deeds in fighting for the rights of workers, in promoting the united front and in making the PUP an outstanding university of learning and technical training for patriotic and progressive students and teachers.

"But "Doc" Prudente was a steadfast revolutionary patriot. He upheld his principles and courageously put his life, limb and liberty on the line in fighting for the just cause of the Filipino people. In his years of retirement from academic life, he continued to have excellent relations with the revolutionary mass movement, especially with the youth and workers. He was held in the highest esteem by the broad masses of the people. His memory and example will always inspire the people."

 

For more info about Prudente: www.centennial.pup.edu.ph/history/19861990.asp

94K Weekend: The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Event

Start:	Apr 18, '08
End:	Apr 20, '08

"Everyone can fast forward their way to SUBIC CLARK AND TARLAC with the new Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway. Billed as the longest highway in the Philippines, the SCTex is expected to change the face of business and leisure in Northern Luzon. As the shortest, most direct and most efficient link connecting the Subic Bay Freeport and the Special Economic Zone in Zambales, the Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga and the Central Techno Park in Tarlac, the SCTEx will drive the region’s economic development and create greater opportunities for investment, trade and employment.

The 94K Weekend invites guests to live in the fast lane with a thrilling weekend of family fun and sporting events. From lightning speed test-drives to challenging marathons, the 94K Weekend lets guests experience the best the SCTEx has to offer."

for more info: http://94kweekend.com/

94K Weekend: The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway Event

Start:	Apr 18, '08
End:	Apr 20, '08

"Everyone can fast forward their way to SUBIC CLARK AND TARLAC with the new Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway. Billed as the longest highway in the Philippines, the SCTex is expected to change the face of business and leisure in Northern Luzon. As the shortest, most direct and most efficient link connecting the Subic Bay Freeport and the Special Economic Zone in Zambales, the Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga and the Central Techno Park in Tarlac, the SCTEx will drive the region’s economic development and create greater opportunities for investment, trade and employment.

The 94K Weekend invites guests to live in the fast lane with a thrilling weekend of family fun and sporting events. From lightning speed test-drives to challenging marathons, the 94K Weekend lets guests experience the best the SCTEx has to offer."

for more info: http://94kweekend.com/

Edith Piaf sings "La Vie En Rose" (1954)

"'La vie en rose' (French for "Life in pink") was the signature song of French singer, Édith Piaf.

Piaf first popularized the song in 1946. The lyrics were written by Piaf and the melody of the song by "Louiguy" (Louis Gugliemi). Initially, Piaf's peers and her songwriting team did not think the song would be successful, but it became a favorite with audiences.[1] An English version of the lyrics was written later by Mack David. Owing to its popularity, the song appeared on most of Piaf's subsequent albums. A 1998 documentary about Édith Piaf was called La Vie en Rose, as was the 2007 biographical feature film La Vie En Rose, which won Marion Cotillard, who played Piaf, an Oscar as Best Actress.

The song has become a standard and has been performed by many artists. It was given a Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1998. It has also become a generic song representing the French, as Rule, Britannia! and Stars and Stripes Forever have for Britain and the US, respectively." -Wikipedia

Art for mallrats

Start:	Mar 9, '08
End:	Mar 11, '08
Location:	SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City, Metro Manila

ART IN PUBLIC SPACES:
POST PHILIPPINE ART FESTIVAL

YOU ARE INVITED TO FREE ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY LECTURES AND DEMO!

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts
(NCCA) Committee on Visual Arts and SM MALL OF ASIA invite everyone to the “Art in Public Spaces:
Post Philippine Art Festival,” a week-long event officially
opening at 6 PM on Sunday,
March 9, 2008 at the SM Mall of Asia. Featuring
websining slide presentation, fine art photography
exhibitions, multimedia demonstrations and lectures by
renowned artists, the Festival has something for
everyone, be they students, enthusiasts, professionals
or practicing artists.
The cutting of the ribbon with cocktails on Sunday,
March 9, 6pm will
be officiated by Cecille Guidote Alvarez, NCCA
Executive Director and NCCA CVA Head, Egai
Fernandez.

Scheduled activities at the Festival kick off with a
lecture and demonstration on “Cutting Edge Printmaking”
by renowned printmaker Virgilio “Pandy” Aviado on March 8
at 2-5PM. Pandy Aviado is a former Director of the Cultural
Center of the Philippines Coordinating Center for the
Visual and Chairperson of CVA. He has
mounted 24 one-man shows both here and abroad. His
works has been featured in several international
venues such as the Asia Print Adventure Sapporo in
Japan, Taegu Asia Art Exhibition in South Korea, The
Macau Convention Center and the Hong Kong Heritage
Museum. He is a recipient of the CCP Thirteen Artists
Award and Araw ng Maynila Award. A fine-arts major
from the PWU, He has introduced printmaking and did
editions for several well known artists from Manila,
Spain and Paris.


It will be followed by a lecture and demonstration by
renowned Graphic Designer Francisco “Dopy” Doplon from
5-7PM on “Digital Art in Public Spaces”. Doplon is currently a graphic designer and
coffee table book artist. He has collaboration with
writer Randy David, photographer and business mogul
Jaime Zobel, has produced “Silence”, which won the
Best Book Design award from the Manila Critics Circle
in 2003. Also that same year, Dopy Doplon designed “Kape:
A Philippine Coffee Cookbook”, a project of Chit Juan,
President and CEO of Figaro Coffee Company and
Vicky-Veloso Barrera, children’s book and cookbook
author which won the National Book Award. Doplon is
the founder and CEO of ArtOne Design and
Communications, Inc and is currently the President of
the Design Agencies Association of the Philippines. He
is also a founding member and past president of eArt
Philippines, the country's premier digital art group.

On March 11, 2pm is a talk by travel photography stalwart
George Tapan on “The Art of Photography in Public Spaces”. Tapan is best known for his stunning signature photos of
Philippine tourist destinations. His collection of
provocative photographs of the Cordilleras is
currently on exhibit at the Tam-Awan Village art space
in Baguio City. From the moment his career took off in
the mid-70’s, Tapan’s work can be found in airports,
magazines, coffee-table books, postcards and in
various offices of the Department of Tourism. Tapan
has also conducted several workshops for photographers
of every skill level and specialization.

Also on March 8 and 11 from 7-9PM, Julian Demerre
will be giving a lecture and demonstration for “Art
Application Using Today’s Software”. Julian Demerre is
a jewelry photographer with clients from Connecticut
and New York. His work has been published in several
jewelry magazines and newspaper advertisements. He is
also a member of the Stamford Urban Artist in
Connecticut. His photographs has been exhibited in the
Wilton Library, Connecticut.

Highlighting the Philippine Art Festival is “Timeless IV,” a fine art
photography exhibit
featuring the work of artist painter, photographer and
printmaker Rosscapili, renowned fine art photographers Jeff Cua and
Luis Martin Harder. “Timeless
IV” opens with cocktails on Sunday, March 9 at 6PM.

An exciting and entertaining experience as well as an
educational eye-opener, “Art in Public Spaces: Post
Philippine Art Festival” is one art extravaganza
definitely not to be missed. The Philippine Art Festival soft
opens at
10AM on Saturday, March 8 at the Entertainment area of
the 2nd Level South Activity Area, Entertainment Mall,
SM Mall of Asia (outside the Premiere Cinema), and
runs until March 14, 2008.

Sponsored by NCCA, SM MALL OF ASIA and YNZAL Marketing Corp

For inquiries, you may contact Leslie Ranaga at
8105094 cel 09063413854

2-year old Adobo chick is delicious!

Adobo, the Philippine advertising and brand communications magazine marked its second anniversary party at Warehouse 135 in Makati City, February 22, 2008. Served well with open bar and great music.

Multiplied!

Photographer. Writer. Utility boy. Bwahahahaha! XD

Photos and montage by Nykko Santos

Minsa'y may mga gamu-gamo...

Valentine's Day 2008

San Miguel by the Bay - SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City, Metro Manila

"Sabi ko para!"

Eksena sa loob ng isang pampaseherong jeep pabiyaheng Siniloan, habang binabagtas ang binabagtas ang daan palabas ng Pakil, Linggo, Pebrero 17, 2008...

(Tahimik sa loob ng jeep. Hindi naka-on ang stereo at nakababa ang trapal para iwasang umanggi ang manaka-nakang ulan. Malamig ang hangin mula sa kabundukang malapit sa lawa ng Laguna.)

Ale: Mama para...

(Marahang huminto ang jeep at saka tumayong nakatungo ang ale para makababa.)

(Dumungaw ang mamang drayber sa kanyang de yerong pintuan. May isang pampasaherong jeep naman ang huminto sa kabilang dako ng kalsada at may mga sinambit ang dalawang drayber sa isa't-isa.)

(Ilang saglit kumambyo ang drayber para muling umusad na syang ikinagitla ng ale na nuo'y isang hakbang na lang sa estribo.)

Ale: Mama para! (Pumara din ang mga pasahero...) 

(Biglang napakapit ang ale sa estribo sa kanyang paglingon sa drayber at sumandal sa gilid habang papatigil ang jeep...)

Drayber: Magsabi ka kasi na bababa ka! (Sinilip ang ale sa rear mirror nya ng naka-kunot ang nuo.)

Ale: Nagsabi ako ng para! (Muhing bumaba...)

(Sesegunda ang isa pang babaeng pasahero, tititig sa rear mirror...)

Pasahero: Pumara yung ale, ikaw naman yung kani-kanino nakatingin!

Drayber: Ay ganun ba? Eh sorry...

(Lilisanin ang pook ng pangyayari. Kailangan pang pumasada.) 

Al fresco without Gloria Jean's Coffees

Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim is in, Gloria Jean's Coffees is out.

No more expensive coffee-samalamig store squatting in his park. The Raja must be smiling.

Raja Sulayman Park, Malate, Manila. February 11, 2008

A hug will do

UP Diliman. February 10, 2008

Rain and people passing by

Aboard ordinary bus plying rain-drenched Taft to España. January 12, 2008

Men at work

Corner of Katipunan avenue and Aurora boulevard. January 18, 2008

Tulay pantao

Sa ikauunlad ng bayan, pink na overpass ang kailangan. Bow!

Ano na kaya ang nangyari sa pagpapatigil ng Citi (Citibank dati) sa pagtatayo ng MMDA ng isang tulay pantao sa tapat mismo ng gusali nito sa Eastwood, Quezon City? Nasolusyunan na kaya?

DIYES KO PO! - A DECADE OF REDMARK PHOTOGRAPHY, 1998-2008

Start:

Jun 12, '08