My Stand on HR 1109

Civil society is on an outrage. The Senate is strongly against it. Congressmen just go on with their normal lives. Malacanang has nothing to say about it. We citizens must take a stand.

Apathy and ignorance is a no-no in times like this.

So there, personally, I am very much in favor of Charter Change. It is for a variety of reasons, for which I believe will tremendously benefit our nation. Basically, the chacha issue is primarily bent on changing the form of government that we have. I think that a shift to a parliamentary form of goverment will be better for an archipelagaic state like the Philippines. Abolishing both houses of Congress and transforming them into just one body will translate to faster and a more efficient delivery of services for the citizens. Members of parliament must be voted upon by each legislative district, and in turn, more people will have a say in running the government, not just those who have the popular vote or those who have influence. Power will be decentralized and will not just be concentrated on specific areas, particularly those urban in nature. People in the far-flung towns and barrios will feel more empowerd and morover, they will feel that they play an active part in the daily affairs of the nation. There will be more accountability since the prime minister is directly responsible to his partymates and more importantly, members of parliament are directly responsible to their constituents who have vested power upon them.

We must also consider that ammending certain provisions of our 22-year old constitution in order for it to more in tune with the present globalized environment is another reason as to why Cha-cha must be prioritized. It includes several economic provisions, which we Economics majors can precisely relate in. Among a string of many other positive factors, I believe that effectiveness, unprecedented continuity and better public accountability will be those taken into consideration if we eventually decide to dance the Cha-Cha.

However, the heart of the matter lies on how this Cha-cha is to be done. We all know that the current constitution provides only three ways in which we can change it. Our congressmen in the House of Representatives, after exhausting all possible legal remedies, are resorting to the method that they voted upon last night. While I am one with the current administration in running this Chacha train, I vehemently deplore the way in which they are doing it, through House Resolution 1109. The abrupt railroading of such a pivotal action must undergo the proper procedures, which includes consultations with the citizens and a smooth coordination with the Senate - both of which are apparently lacking in the present situation. Changing the constitution must be concurred upon by the majority of 90 million Filipinos, not just by 150 or so pro-administration congressmen.

I have to admit that ever since President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assumed office, I am always with her in every good endeavor of her administration. I know that many will disagree with me on this, but I think that Gloria is the best Philippine President in recent memory. You want proof? Then look around you. She may not be perfect due to the corruption scandals hounding her, but let's face it, every politician is blinded by money and greed once he is in office. The idea of the president still sitting in power beyond 2010 is alright with me. There are no better alternatives anyway.

The best time to ammend the constitution may be after the 2010 elections, yet I am not against doing it earlier than that. But again, I reiterate that changing the charter must be done in a manner that will not compromise anyone. Not by hastily passing HR 1109 in order to convene a ConAss. There is a way Congress can do it legally, and that is what they must do. And this is what we Filipinos must do: to prod them to do the right thing they should do.

***
By voicing out our opinions, we are not just saying whether we are pro or against it; we are helping ourselves to be better Filipinos. :)

OMG!!!

Noteworthy current happenings that will make you react with OMG!!! :))

• Sweeney Todd in Manila!!!

Oh yes folks, this stunningly dark yet amazzzzing musical will be adapted by Repretory Philippines here in Manila! Too bad it is set for a November 2009 premiere though. But still, I know the wait will be worth it.

Pies, anyone? :))

• Disappontment over new AI "champ"

I guess he is not the champion after all. HAHA I know, I'm still bitter. ADAM SHOULD HAVE WON!!!!! America, sorry but you got it wrong this time. hahaha.

Simon Cowell and Katy Perry's support for Adam failed. But like the conspiracy theories in the blogging circles, I agree that Kris won because either Adam supporters became laxed and thought that he would win anyway so they didn;t vote for him anymore. And second, I hate to admit this but Kris' repertoire will be more album and radio-friendly than Lambert's. Though Adam indeed possesses a very humongous musical prowess, Kris's matinee idol looks and tween-appeal may have charmed his way into winning.

Plus Adam's gender issues somewhat took its toll too. No homosexual Am Idol. Yet. : But mind you, he will be more popular and more sucessful than Kris. Team Lambert forever! Oh yeah!!!

• Cannes 2009 Best Director is a Filipino

It just goes with his name. Absolutely brilliant.

There's no stopping Direk Brillante Mendoza from conquering the world as he was named Best Director in the 62nd Cannes Film Festival in France. Cannes is widely believed as the world's most prestigious film festival. Mendoza's film, "Kinatay" is in the competition section and it tells the story of a chop-chop lady, hence the title. Brillante bested other world-renowned directors also competing for the recognition like Ang Lee (Sense & Sensibility, Brokeback Mountain), Quentin Tarantino (Pulp Fiction), etc.

This is the second year in a row that Brillante had a dilm in competition in France. Last year, his entry was "Serbis", wihich tells the tale about a family that owns a theater house in a municipality and the 'wonders' happening inside it. Just like "Serbis", "Kinatay" received mixed reactions from critics, noting Mendoza's flair for films with gory themes, as well as the unique story-telling methods he employs in them.

Mendoza deserves a treatment given to the likes of Manny Pacquiao, considering the huge feat he has accomplished. No other Filipino film maker won the said title, not even the late, great Lino Brocka.

Aww, my directorial dreams are on fire again. How I wish. Well, one day. :) haha.

Kudos to Direk Brillante for this shining, shimmering glory that you bestowed on our country.

Oh Vicki!

The cyber world is all abuzz over the video scandal involving Doctor Hayden Kho together with sexy actress Katrina Halili.

In the video uploaded to the net, even on YouTube, around 2 weeks ago, the doctor is found singing "Careless Whisper" while her ex-lover Katrina is gyrating hermoves towards the camera. The affair of Kho and Halili is the reason why famous dermatologist Vicki Belo ended her May-December relationship with the doctor-turned-singer.

Apparently, that said video is just a preview for the scandals soon to be released!

Rumors has it that Quiapo pirated DVD vendors are compiling the set entitled "Hayden Video Scandal". The next to come out will be a 40-minute actual sex video with Halili. Then there are two more videos with models. There is also a supposed video with actress Ruffa Mae Quinto.

Finally, the video series will be culminated by an actual video of Belo and Kho themselves! Imagine, 50 something (?) well respected Dra Belo engaging in sensual activities with her young loverboy. People are saying that they are once again back in each others arms.

Oh Vicki, haven't you learned your lesson yet?! Yeah, Hayden might be a good catch. But still, are you willing to sacrifice your name and dignity for this crazy pervert?

Missed Chances

***

At a recent ANC Forum at the Ateneo which I attended, the 2010 presidentiables, for the first time, faced off for a round of questions concerning current issues and their stands about them. It was hosted by Tina Monzon-Palma and my all-time favorite news anchor slash commentator, Ricky Carandang. Okay I admit, it was my dream to meet him personally. I even remembered that he is one of the persons indicated on the 'Who I Want To Meet' section on my Friendster profile. Hahahahaha.

So there, I was kind of star-strucked when I saw him in person. After the forum, the presidentiables stayed to mingle and to grant photo-ops and interviews for the guests, mostly students. TMP and Ricky were there, talking to various guest politickos. I stayed at the back of the auditorium witnessing the brouhaha, at the same time formulating in my mind the exact words I will say when I introduce myself to him (okay, ang kapal eh. haha)

Mar Roxas, Dick Gordon and Gilbert Teodoro all passed beside me, about a foot away, and still, I didn't bother to greet them nor to shake hands. I was really determined to meet my kumpareng Ricky. HAHA. Several minutes had passed and I noticed that he is on his way out. Being the stalker that I am, I followed him and found him talking to a former congressman and some NGO officials.

Again, some minutes later, I saw him walking towards the driveway of Leong Hall. Apparently, he may be waiting for his ride. So I gathered some courage, composed myself and started to walk towards where he is. Alas, he was talking yet again with people, this time with her colleague, Tina Palma and another journalist whom I really admire, Maria Ressa. Ressa is the head of ABS-CBN News and prior to that, she was CNN's cheif correspondent for Southeast Asia.

3 moles in just one hit. How lucky could I get?! Haha

Sadly though, I didn't get to pursue my noble intention of meeting them. My shyness enveloped me once again. :( :( :( I hate it when my introvertness attacks.

Well I hope there's a next time. :

***

One of the things I looked forward too last weekend when I was in Baguio was the Ukay shopping. I know that Baguio is not just famous for its strawberries and peanut brittles, but it is also a place for good shoppong finds at rock-bottom prices.

Walking in Baguio is an entirely good experience. Immersed into the cold crisp air, I couldn't feel being tired while I endlessly scour the whole stretch of Session Road and the Wet Market for things I'm looking for.

The thing is, when I go out and buy something, I search the whole area and compare the items. That's why it takes me half a day when I buy some clothes at the mall. I applied the same thing when I was in Baguio. I already passed by this area which I know from the first time I looked at it that they were selling some overrun signature items and old ukay stuff. Being the wais shopper that I am, I said to myself that I will look at other places first and just come back later.

Just like in my Ricky Carandang experience, I failed once more. : When I came back to the place where the sellers were (btw, they are in bangketas lang), they were gone na. :( I suddenly remembered na they have a specific time when they sell their stuff since they were just located in the side streets. Oh well. Good thing I found other good stuff to compensate for what I "lost" Haha.

***

Two missed chances. Ugh. :

HAHA, sorry. I sulk at shallow thoughts. :)) sabaw na. hahaha

A Barrage of Changes

Just when you thought that a certain thing will become a permanent fixture in your life, will you then discover that it is not rightly so.

Some things that happened these past few days taught me so:

1. I now have contact lenses! Hmm yeah, not much of a great deal. But hey, I never thought that I would be wearing one. First, my mom was kinda apprehensive towards that idea before since she had a bad experience with contacts some years back. Still, I was hesitant. Then yay, I have one na! People are not so used to me not having glasses, including me. Haha. I hope its bagay. Its color is clear though. Im g0nna try a colored one maybe next month. Any suggestions on the color?? Hopefully, Lasik is next. :D
2. A February-April Summer. Due to the irregular weather phenomena during the past weeks, it seems that the Philippines now has a new summer season. February pa lang, the sun is so blazing hot na. It's like were being roasted in an oven. It's not supposed to be hot yet around that month. Then fast-forward to May. Boom! Pit-pat-pit-pat on the roofs and on the street concretes. A storm in the middle of summer? WTH is this joke! Hi Emong! Peace be with you.
3. No More Korina. Every morning while going to school, it is either that my car radio is tuned in to Good Times with Mo on the Magic or to Tambalang Failon at Sanchez on DZMM. I just love listening on how they put flavor to their commentaries. Imagine them singing or acting - things they couldn't do while doing the newscasts on TV. Sadly, yesterday Friday was Korina's last day on the radio show (also on her late-night newscast Bandila). She'll be on a one-year leave for her wedding prepartions, as well as to help in the presidential campaign of her fiance, Mar Roxas. Ted is still on leave because of the tragedy that happened to him but is scheduled to be back around June. Korina said that the media has been her life for the past 25 years and she will definitely come back. The question is, as who? As the First Lady of the republic? Well, I wish them luck. :)
4. First Gay American Idol. It seems that a new age of liberalism (and precisely, change) has eneveloped the United States. First, they just recently elected their first African-American president. And now, the first gay champion of the most popular show in the US is in the making. I think that no one can stop Adam Lambert from achieveing such a feat. After breaking the racial divide, it looks like gender stratification will be halted as well. Now that is real change.
5. I don't know, but it seems like I found myself again. :) It's hard to expound on this one. Just be happy for me. Lol.

Nothing is permanent, indeed. And this fact of life teaches us spread out and be ready for anything, as well as to reach out to anyone. The world is changing faster than it has before. The same goes with us.

Halfway

It's been a month since summer started and (sadly), I'm still stuck with my summer classes. Well yeah, I enjoy my subjects. In fact, they're very interesting. Political Science. Money and Banking. Spanish. I loathe the readings though. They're so many. One day, I was so determined to finish reading the whole pack, but next thing I know, I find myself browsing the net, procrastinating or doing stuff outside.

One of my consolation for having to survive the extremely humid weather conditions at Ateneo is my prof. Wah, HOT!!! =)))))))

***

Speaking of the weather, its ever-changing moods has gotten me coughs and colds. In the morning, it is a struggle for me not to melt under the blazing heat of the sun. Then a few hours after, the rain pours down heavily. The effects of global warming are now here. Sigh. We humans are to blame for it, so naturally, we must live with it too.

***

Believe it or not, I overcut NSTP last semester. So much for thinking that it was a preposterous subject. HAHAHA. Good thing our formator was very considerate that instead of us having to repeat NSTP for another year (nightmare!!!!), we will just have summer NSTP. Just for one Saturday. weeee!!! :)

But crap!!! It was so hot a while ago!! And we have to brave this severe heat! To make things worse, the stupid jeepney driver dropped us off at the long place so we have to walk a few kilometers still. We are like drenched with sweat when we reached the place. : Oh well wala lang. Yay!!! No more NSTP! Forever!!!!! :D :D :D

***

To cap off my sabaw week, I would like to announce that I have been apprehended by traffic enforcers TWICE this week! 2 times in one week! Shit! And since I am a squeaky clean citizen of my country, I have decided to.... bribe them. HAHAHAHA. Php. 500 for each offense. One grand gone to the hands of those extortionists!! Is swerving really a violation?! Tsss!
Too bad my "balikbayan" excuse didn't work with them. Have to make my accent and my storyline more believable. :))

Ciao. Good night world.

A Filipino Jolie-Pitt

Last week, it has been reported that a private jet chartered by Hollywood powerhouse couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Gossips speculated that the couple arrived in the Philippines for an island-hopping get-away and that their stops include the pristine Amanpulo Island and the world-famous Boracay.

However, theres a new twist to the story lately. It has been said that the reason why Brangelina are in the Philippines is that they are planning to adopt a new member for the multi-racial Jolie-Pitt household. If this is true, then a Filipino will be the seventh child of the couple, including biological and adopted children.

Supposedly, the couple initially wanted to adpot a child in Burma; but certain laws of the country prohibited them from doing so. So pronto, their next choice is someone from the Philippines!

A Pinoy child of a Hollywood royalty. What do you think?

Melted by Summer Heat

Random sabaw thoughts because of the extremely excruciating summer heat:

• I became darker for swimming in the pool for three hours compared to six days at the beach.

• Thank the chemists for Methathione. HAHAHA. at least I'm starting to get back to my normal skin tone (hmm yeah, still mocha brown. : )Though I pretty much like my tone too. ala Derek Ramsey. haha

• After all the summer trips I had so far, this is the only time that I get to rest one whole day at home. Alas, it didn't spare me from tiring myself in working out and fixing the files in my laptop.

• I need to maximize my free days this summer anyway. I will be having summer classes starting on Wednesday. I'll be having PolSci, Basic Spanish and Money & Banking. I expect heavy readings from them. *gasps*

• I'll be heating the beach again this weekend! AEA Plansem in Batangas. woot! Okay, someone buy me another bar of Metathione please. =))

• My workout is becoming more and more worth it! My flabs (a.k.a. bilbil) basta that side section of the tummy, are now becoming flat. Goodbye bulges! Hello, curves!

• After my Bora trip, of which I soent my own money, I have to admit that I am so broke right now. No more summer shopping for me. :(

• But I found these cute pair of shoes somewhere. I need to save up for it!

• And I must save more money. I need them for fun and leisure.

• Could I just say once more, this summer heat is killing me!!!!! @!^#@&#(@!!!

• And lastly, is it worth the wait??? :D :D :D

REVIEW: Lysistrata

"Lysistrata"
Tanghalang Ateneo

Genre: Comedy / some musical
Director: Ricardo Abad / BJ Crisostomo
Original Story: Aristophanes
Translated by: Pete Lacaba
Cast: Maria Carissa A. Alejandro (Lysistrata), et. al

Rating: 8.5/10

This may be quite late for a review, but oh well, this is just the Fil paper that I made for it.

***

Sex as Art. Sex for Peace

Nitong mga nakalipas na panahong pangteatro, nagsulputan ang iba’t ibang mga dulang tumatalakay sa mas matured na nilalaman. Hindi rin ito nakalagpas sa Ateneo, datapwa’t isa itong akademikong institusyon na nasa pangangalaga ng mga paring Heswita. Nariyan ang “Fluid” ng Fine Arts Program; ang “Tarong” ng Entablado; ang “Bare” ng Blue Repertory; at kamakailan lang, ang “Lysistrata” ng Tanghalang Ateneo. Lahat ng mga nabanggit na produksyon ay may ekstensibong eksena patungkol sa pagtatalik at kung ano pang mga sexual acts.

Sa papel na ito, susuriin ang dulang “Lysistrata”, na hinango ni Pete Lacaba mula sa dula ni Aristophanes at sa direksyon ni Ricardo Abad at ni BJ Crisostomo. Bilang isang dula na may malaking pagtuon sa sex, maraming mga bagay ang dapat isaalang-alang at intindihin para unawain ang dula higit pa sa pisikal na dimension nito.

Hindi patungkol sa sex ang pangunahing tema ng dulang “Lysistrata”. Ito ay kwento hinggil sa digmaan at kapayapaan at pakomedya ang pagtalakay sa mahahalay na eksena. Dahil sa hindi matigil na giyera sa pagitan ng Sparta at Atena, isang grupo ng mga maybahay mula sa Gresya ang nagtipon-tipon upamg mag-isip ng paraan kung paano nila maibabalik ang kapayapaan sa bayan nilang nasadlak sa dahas. Sa pamamagitan ng pinuno nilang si Lysistrata, napagkasunduan ng mga maybahay ng mga sundalong Gresyan na tatanggi silang makipagtalik sa kani-kanilang mga asawa hanngang hindi natatapos ang digmaan. Nagtago sila sa Acropolis at nang lumaon, inatake ng kalibugan ang mga lalaki at pilit nilamg kinukumbinsi ang kanilang mga asawa na lumabas na at bigyang-tugon ang mga pagnanasang karnal.

Sa conflict na iyon pa lamang, tumatatak na ang pangunahing isyu na bibigyang-pansin ng dula at ang resolusyon na magaganap ukol dito. Isa itog matingkad na halimbawa ng Feminismo dahil sa nabibigyang kapangyarihan ang mga babae laban sa kanilang mga asawa. Kung sa digmaan ay masasalamin ang “machismo” dahil panay mga lalaki ang kalahok sa giyera, iba naman ang nangyayari kapag nasa bahay na. Ang mga pagkakataon gaya ng pagtatalik ay patunay na kailangan ng mga lalaki ang mga babae upang makapamuhay sila ng maayos – at puno ng nag-uumapaw na ligaya. Sa usaping sex, parehong naipapakita ang kahalagahan ng lalaki’t babae sa isa’t isa. Syempre ba naman, mas masaya ito kaysa sariling sikap o magpakasilahis sa kapareho mong kasarian.

Nang mawala ang mga babae, hindi ito kinaya ng mga lalaki sa kadahilanang hindi napupunan ang kanilang pagnanasa sa sex. Sa pamamagitan ng pagtanggi sa kanilang mga asawa, naipakita ang kakayahan ng mga babae na maging independent sa kagustuhan ng kanilang mga asawa at ng patriarchal society na mayroon tayo. Kaya ng mga babae na bumalikwas sa nakagawian na at i-udyok sa lahat na meron din silang mga karapatan at kapangyarihan. Sa huli, natigil nga ang giyera at napatunayan ng mga babae na kaya rin nilang magdulat ng panlipunang pagbabago at kapayapaan sa kanilang bayan.

Ngunit may kinalaman pa din sa usaping Feminismo ang weak point na makikita sa dula. Parang nailalarawan ang mga babae bilang mga “kasangkapan” na lang para makipagtalik. Sa medaling salita, nagiging obheto na lamang ang mga babae at nawawalan ng saysay at halaga ang isang sagradong bagay gaya ng sex. Noong una na hindi pa pinagkakaitan ng mga babae and mga asawa nila ng pakikipagtalik, hindi pinapahalagahan ng mga lalaki ang mga babae at pilit binabalewala ang kanilang mga opinion at saloobin. Subalit nagbago ang ihip ng hangin simula nang nag-init amg mga lalaki at nahumaling sa kanilang mga sexual desires. Ang mga lalaki na ang naghahabol sa mga babae at nagmamakaawa sa kanila na punan ang kanilang pagkukulang. Lumalabas na handa lamang bigyan ng karampatang-pansin ng mga kalalakihan ang kanilang mga asawa kapag oras ng pangangailangan.

Isa pang kapansin-pansin sa dula ay kung paano tinahak ng produksyon ang mga maseselang eksena na tungkol sa sex. Kung tutuusin, halos buong dula ay parang ganoon nga. Gumamit ang director at manunulat ng mga devices upang hindi gaanong bastos ang labas ng dula. Kailangang “lambutan” ang ilang mga eksena dahil ang pangunahing tagapanood naman ng dula ay mga mag-aaral ng Ateneo, na ang iba ay mga minor pa o di kaya’y masyado pang inosente para tanggapin ang ilang mga realidad ng mundo. Sa pamamagitan ng komedya, nabalanse ng dula ang mga mahahalay na eksena nito. Imbis na “maganahan” o mandiro sa kung ano man ang nagaganap sa entablado, nagkakaroon ng kaunting pagkitil dito dahil sa mga linyang binigyan ng wit and humor.

Binigyang kulay din ang produksyon gamit ang mga malilikhaing bagay gaya ng entablado na sa unang tingin pa lang ay kita ang hulma ng mga ari ng babae at lalaki. May ibig ding iparating ang ubod nang laking mga penises at breasts. Nagkaroon din ng makabuluhang audience interaction dahil sa pagganap ng koro at paglapat ng awit at sayaw sa ilang parte ng dula. Ang mga ito ay nakabuti sa pagbibigay ng panibagong buhay sa natatanging likha ni Aristophanes at nabigyang-hustisya naman ito ng Tanghalang Ateneo dahil lutang ang layunin nilang bigyan ng bahid ng pagka-Pinoy and dulang Greko.

Ang pagsasadula ng “Lysistrata” ay isang magandand opurtunidad para sa mga manunuod nito, lalo na sa mga Atenista, na mabigyan ng bagong pagtingin hinggil sa maselang usapin ng sex. Sa postmodernong panahon, ang mga bagay na itinuturing na taboo noon ay dapat nang mabigyan ng kaukulang-pansin ngayon. Sa pamamagitan nito, mas lalawak ang kaalaman ng mga tao tungkol sa nasabing isyu at makatutulong sa kanila na gumawa ng mga responsableng desisyon nang hindi naisasakripisyo ang sariling prinsipyo at paninindigan.

A Toast to Summer

This may be the hottest summer ever (literally), but I know this will be the best. :)

Subic, check!
Galera, check!

To go:
-Bora
-Tagaytay
-Splash Island
-Tagaytay again

Then off to summer classes.


Can you imagine my color after all these? =))

Tsap Tsing

Is it bad to name this post with a Chinese cuss? Hahaha.

Wala lang. I'm just so fucking disappointed.

A chance was given, yet it's so stupid for me to let it loose again. Ugh. Talk about sheer unluckiness.

I hate my so-so performance this sem.

I need motivation. :|


Beach beach beach come to me.

I'm Now an Australian Shopaholic Runner

Someone restrain me from shopping please. I chanced upon this sale in Glorietta last Saturday this shop has some Team Manila products at huge discounts. I ended up draining the credits of my ATM. Hahaha.

Maybe watching 'Shopaholic' will help me limit my lucrative tendencies.

***

As I was going home that day, my driver's license nearly got confiscated. From Ayala Avenue, I turned right to EDSA. And behold, an officer of that stupid MMDA flagged me down.

It seems like turning right when the red light is on is prohibited. So there. Actually, I really didn't know (or forgot) (or didn't saw the sign that says so). And the car ahead of me turned right too, so I just followed him.

Luckily, I remembered that a friend of mine gave me before. I put on the best English accent I could muster (I admit, this is hard. haha) then explained that I am a balikbayan from Australia and I just got back to the Philippines two weeks ago. After five minutes of make-belief trash talk, he let me go! :D He might probably thought that he couldnt not extort money from me since I just came back from kangaroo-land and it follows that I don;t know the street trade here.

Yay, at least I consider that as a fun experience. Screw MMDA.

***

HURRAH!!! No more P.E. class for me. FOREVER! and evah!!

A while ago, I joined the Loyola Schools Fun Run, which kind of serves as the culminating activity and the finals for this sem.

I ran 5K. To get an A, we need to do the lap in 25 minutes, a feat that I considered at first as very unrealistic. I was jogging months and weeks before it and the best I could muster was around 38 minutes.

But then, miracles do happen. Or should I say, my efforts paid off. I clocked in 29minutes, 10 seconds!! Weeee! Even though I didn't finish it in 25 minutes, I'm still proud of myself. Harharhar. Like, I was fifth in my class or something.

Tralalalala.

But still, I need to work on my body more. Two weeks till summer. Summer = hotness = beach = _ _ _ _ = FUN!

Missing someone. Found. Yet missed again

I just posted something a while ago, but I think this thing deserves a separate entry. I also dont want to jump abruptly from a jubilant emotion to a somewhat frustrated feeling in one page.

***

So taking my cue from my previous entry, while I was reading through my readings, I suddenly remembered my grade school bestfriend, whom, believe it or not, I haven't got a chance to talk to since elementary graduation!!! X_X well except for this one time that I accidentally met him at the Ateneo Social Sciences open house.

He's Aguinaldo's great great grandson, but I don't think he earned the former president's stupidity. Hahaha.

Anyway, he is studying in UP and so there, I texted some of my UP friends and asked them to get his number if they saw him. Goodness gracious, why had I thought of this just now?? :))

Kath immediately replied and said that he is her classmate in Polsci!! Weee! She sent me his number and texted him immediately. Thankfully, he replied. I asked him how is he and all that catching-up stuff. But I dunno, he seems kinda lame and not interested. :(

Well I'm not sure. Maybe he's just like that through text but of course, I was expecting that he'll be so jubilant and excited that we get to communicate again. After all, he was my bestfriend. We were constant buddies in elementary. We shared the same interests. We would always eat lunch together. We were both members of the same orgs. We both ran and won in the student council. But too bad, he switched schools come highschool. :|

Cellphones, friendster, email weren't much of a boom back then so we really lost contact. Ever since highschool, I havent got any communication from him. I didnt know his digits and he didnt have an online profile! I know his address, though I'm shy to just barge in there.

I really dont know why just today is the time that I realized to contact him again. I'm not really sure if that is a good idea after all.

I want to catch up with him soon enough. I know that it takes time and the gap has became so much farther already. Well, I just miss him... He was the best guy friend that I had after all. :(

Hungry for Something Worthwhile

I had an interview for an internship at Ortigas earlier. It's my first time to do have a formal interview and swear, I like to repeat it again!! Hahaha!!!

Its so fun. I mean, I really thought that the ones who are going to talk to me are serious HR managers or mataray people, but no, they weren't. They're fun-loving young people. Haha.

And its kinda different from the interviews that I had in school when I'm applying for something. In school and org-related stuff, I tend to get nervous and have this feeling of backing out pero a while ago, parang wala lang.

I hope I get accepted. I really want to immerse myself once more into writing (and pressure). Plus I hope it could help me to find a career in media even though I'm taking Economics. woohoo!!

***

Going to school was pretty much useless today. I cut my Fil class then I'm like 20-minutes late for Histo. Just in time for the video presentation of our term project. It was so sabaw and all but at least, Sir Ambeth liked it. B! haha! I hope that it'll get higer when we submit the actual paper na.

And accounting was a free-cut today! Hurrah, no quiz too!! :))

So there, since I feel like going back south early today, I immediately left after my class. Just had coffee in Starbucks while reading the stuff that I have to study for Histo165 long test on Thursday.

Could I just say, Emilio Aguinaldo is so stupid. And selfish. I loved the way Apolinario handles things. So clever and brilliant. :)

In life, we tend to encounter terrible terrible lessons, learned at the price of untold sufferings. Forgetting those will make them all the more terrible.

A Tribute to the Master Rapper

Yesterday we bid farewell to perhaps the ultimate icon of Pinoy Rap, Francis Magalona. After embattling a gruelling fight against leukemia, he finally succumbed to the will of the Creator. He is survived by his wife, Pia and his eight children.

Personally, I could see in him the image of a good family man. I believe he is an ideal husband and an exceptional father, proof of which is his kids being uprooted in good Christian values. I even remembered a documentary we watched during highschool about this topic about sex education, which he hosted.

He will be fondly remembered by Filipinos as the patriotic musician slash rapper, with majority of his songs incorporating themes of nationalism, love for the country and other social issues.

You will be forever be missed and remembered.

Rest in peace, Francis M... Yo!

Carried Away

I never knew I could do it. Right there and then.

No second thoughts. No what-ifs. None at all.

But oh well, its been a long time. In fact, I missed it.

I have no regrets. I enjoyed it, really.

It's just one night anyway. Forgive me for I got carried away.

Did Chris Brown Really did this to Rihanna?

This is a picture of R&B hitmaker Rihanna circulating on the net after the alleged domestic violence incurred to her by her (ex)flame Chris Brown. This was a leakage from the Los Angeles Police and they are investigating who leaked the picture that is primarily taken for the sake of evidence.

I feel so sorry for Rihanna. If this was done to her, how much more to every other ordinary person out there. Hoping she could recover soon enough.

REVIEW: Stages of Love

"Stages of Love"
Musical
Ateneo Blue Repertory

Genre: Musical / Romance (around 75 minutes running time)
Director: Jillian Pena
Original Story: Andrei Pamintuan
Starring: Marc Baluyan, Pauline Oyco/Jowee Ann Marquez, ensemble cast

Rating: 10/10

One could possibly relate themselves to the any of the love-struck characters in Ateneo Blue Repertory's (blueREP) special Valentine offering, "Stages of Love".

This blueREP original, written by Andrei Pamintuan and had already been staged succesfully two years ago, tackles the different complexities of love and how the protagonists get themselves entangled in the beautiful wings of romance.

Set in the light atmosphere of a coffee shop, this is primarily where the 5 couples croosed paths, solved their issues and filled the air with sparks. The main characters of the story (played by Baluyan with Oyco and Marquez as alternates), are the baristas in the cafe, wherein the guy tries to pursure her co-worker, who just emerged from a break-up. Mutual friendship is developed in the cute little nooks of the coffee shop and in the end, girl barista decides whether to leave her past behind and entertain this new suitor knocking at the gates of her broken, yet sympathetic heart.

Meanwhile, even the customers coming in the cafe have their own share of love tidbits too, in varying circumstances. Name it, the play has it: Torpe boys meets popular girl, Mataray lady strikes her charm on geeky guy, etc. These would-soon be couples try to iron out differences between themselves that would eventually lead to cute and sweet romantic angles. Aside from the cheezy pick-up lines, a hopeless romantic who comes out in every sequence as a different character possessing unique personalities provide the best laughs in the play.

Of course, what makes the love story become special is the beautifully-crafted music that compliments the smooth-sailing plot. The songs are selected Original Pilipino Music (OPM) favorites and a few American classic love songs. They are arranged into a very lovely medley, one that can make the audience sing with the actors. The cast did justice to the music as they sung it not just out of musical precision, but also with the right blend of emotion needed.

The setting of the story also provided a great boost to the somewhat thin plot. It is crucial in making the audience believe the general flow of romance between the characters. Together, the play proves that in the world we have now, a feeling of romantic love could very much be developed even in the tiny spaces of a coffee shop.

Love chooses NO place, time nor person. Indeed, it comes the time where you least expect it. When that "person" hits you hard enough, grab the chance and enjoy the best-est feeling in the world. Ever. :)


P.S. Let me just share my most favorite quote from the play:

Sshhh..Let's Gossip

Yay! I just found out that I am lagging only by 2 episodes in Gossip Girl. And I'm downloading it right now. Haha! I'm not that of a loser. :p

Sad thing is, we won't be able to get our doses of Manhattan High Society gossip till March. We'll still have to wait that long for episode 18 to air. :

Still, I got this sorta description and teaser about the episode. Let's just munch of this little piece of info till we salivate for the next juicy secret from GG my sweetheart. HAHAHA! xoxo!

Chuck is having trouble dealing with the mystery that was his father and
the way in which his spare time was managed. Meanwhile, Nate catches Vanessa
flirting with another guy, and at a moment of desperation, reluctantly turns to
Blair for help. Dan purposely ignores Serena’s calls and tells Miss Carr that
things are beyond a little complicated between the two of them right now. Miss
Carr chooses not to take her job back and spends most of her time in an empty
apartment with her new fling, who doesn’t seem to be quite grieving from his
recent break-up. At the same time, Lily and Rufus question where their
relationship is going and talk casually about merging their households, Chuck
however, is against the idea, and does everything in his power to stop it.

Valentines Day... whut?!

Okay, could someone tell me the meaning of Valentines.. please! haha!

Hold on, I'm not bitter. I'm just, well, a lil sad that I wouldnt be celebrating it with someone. Lol!

But still, I still exercise maximum patience! =)) Who knows, maybe I, or even you, will be the next one who'll be hit by Cupid's cute arrow.

***

Cheers to all LOVERS out there! **ehem*ehem*ehem*** :D

Happy Valentines!!!

25 Statements of Randomness

I've posted this one on Facebook. Might as well post it here. :)

Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you. (To do this, go to “notes” under tabs on your profile page, paste these instructions in the body of the note, type your 25 random things, tag 25 people (in the right hand corner of the app) then click publish.)

Tagged by: Ira Remon, Mich Sy, Adrienne Bernal, Jean Arboleda and Mai Valera

1. I am very much OC about stuff. PROOF: Read Nos. 2 - 6.
   
2. When I sleep, I make sure that I have this certain number of pillows. One or two to lie my head on. One that I hug. And one each on my right and left side (for this I prefer the long, circular ones). Oh, I also have two very small square pillows on the upperleft and upper right side of my bed. Thats where I put pillow christmas gifts. hahaha!
   
3. I do my morning habits for more than an hour. They are mostly vanity stuff. I don't want to go out of the house without doing any of those. Good thing that I now have my own room and bathroom. haha
   
4. My closet is very organized. Everything is classified according to what they should be. They're arranged according to color too!
   
5. I keep school stuff neat as well. My readings, some of them from highschool, are placed in envelopes and compiled in those gigantic black folders. Almost a fifth of that number are purely those inches-thick reading from Socio-Anthro. haha!
   
6. My notes are color-coded. I use red for headings then black or blue for the body.Then I have rainbow colors for eco graphs!!
   
7. I'm not yet done halfway, still I took a break from doing this. Ate some pasalubong from Tagaytay. haha.
   
8. I ate a lot. I dont wanna puke. But there's dinner later! wahh!
   
9. To those who don't know, I really don't want to take Economics as my degree. I really want something media-related like Film, Comm, BroadCom or Theater. But my parents said that there'n no money in there and all that. So here I am. But I love Eco since highschool.
   
10. When driving, I'm kinda scared if I have companions. You know, the responsibility of being their driver. haha. Kaya I tend to drive slower (and safer)...
    
11. ...but when I'm alone, it's a different story. Lalo na when I have this itch to really really get home. Last Friday on c5, i've done 120kph. Skyway, I think 130 or 140. I think 150 is not far from now. Lol. Driving way past midnight is bliss.
    
12. Still on the topic, I sometimes leave my house (down south) mga 30-45mins before my first class. Then I arrive school just on the nick of time. Malas na if I arrive mga 5-10minutes late. Its a gamble though. Everytime I do that, fate seems to ride with me. No (or minimal) traffic sa Sucat intersection, SLEX, c5-Kalayaan and Libis tunnel.
    
13. HALFWAY! ugh this is becoming harder. I love the theater since highschool but came to love musicals only in college.
    
14. I am wearing glasses since I was in Grade 1. My eye grade that time was like 125. But now, my left is 575 then 600 on my right. But I'm proud that I maintained that level for the past 3 years already.
    
15. I patronize Filipino stuff more than the imported ones. Lalo na the movies and TV shows. When read online profiles, I get irritated at those persons who stated that everything they like are purely the Hollywood stuff and don't really admit that they like a little bit of the local ones too. Che! I dont believe you! haha!
    
16. I love local teleseryes. Lalo na the dramas with those quotable lines. hahaha! Lately, I've been hooked with 'Tayong Dalawa'. Hall of Famers: 'Maging Sino Ka Man' and 'Iisa Pa Lamang'. Go Isadora! haha!
    
17. There's a toy monkey hanging on the railings of my curtains. If you press it, it'll make monkey sounds.
    
18. I have stacks of unopened magazines and subscriptions. Also about 20 unread books. I seem to dont have time to read lately. Internet seems to get in the way. haha. at least I have something to look forward to in the summer! weeee.
    
19. Regarding the internet, even though at times I say to myself that I dont want to use it coz I want to study and do some other productive stuff, I really can't do it. It's such a B.I.!!! I sleep round 2am because of it. I need rehab!!!
    
20. I have became addicted to Fashion Wars lately. Its a Facebook app. Hurry, click on my profile and join my posse!!
    
21. I have calculated it using the most intelligible computations and the latest model of the sci-cal. You know what I found out??? I need 5 items more!!! (or should it be 4? whatever. haha)
    
22. I love anything sweet. Chocolates, candies, pastries. name it! I just wish that I wouldnt have diabetes. huhuhu.
    
23. My P.E. this sem is Weights Training, wherein for the finals, we need to lift this certain percentage of weights (computed from our body mass). Guess what? I haven't reached halfway of it for the bicep and shoulder curls. wahhh!
    
24. And for our PE Finals, our class chose to participate in the fun run rather than lifting a much heavier set of weights. We'll join the 5k run. In order to get an A, I should finish the distance in 25minutes!!!! I've been practicing it sometimes and the best I could do is about 38!
    
25. Oh, its the last number na pala. It took me long to finish it. (including the breaks) 2 hours wasted. hahaha!

Whew, gonna say hello again to another week. :D

I Need to Concentrate

I would like to post a reward of a million bucks to anyone who could present me a medicine for concentration!! I swear, I need lots and heavy doses of it! X_X

The past few days has been a bum life for me. As in. I haven't been able to read my books. I do my papers the night before its due. I study for a quiz moments before it. Ugh I am losing track.

And here's the gist, even though I seem to be so unproductive lately, I always feel tired and sleepy! As in this day was like the climax of my stress level. lolz. I havent gotten myself a good long sleep since hell week burned me alive more than a week ago. Screw internet! Its the most BAD influence ever. EVAHH! My bodyclock was readjusted making my regular sleeping time at 2.30. Sometimes I only get to have 4 hours of sleep. I'm lucky if I dozed off for 6-7 hours. Kaya nga I am so haggard lately. I feel ugly and fat. =)) But dang, I need even just 10-hour sleep again and I'll be fine. Haha!

Okay i have enough of ranting too. I just realized that I have yet to study for my Psych test this Friday. I dont want to flunk it once more, so yeah, I need to really read.

On another note, I feel that I am such a responsible citizen of my beloved beautiful country, the Philippines. HAHAHA! I registered already for the electiions!!! YAY!!! I could now vote!!! weeee!!! Okay, me being an early bird seldom happens so please pardon my shrilly tone. :))

I want rest. I want booze. I want action!!

REVIEW: Ang Unang Baboy Sa Langit

"Ang Unang Baboy sa Langit"
Play - Student Theater Group
Ateneo Entablado

Genre: Light Drama / Comedy
Director: Jerry C. Respeto
Writer: Christine Bellen (adapted from Rene Villanueva)
Starring: Ensemble Cast (composed of students, faculty and alumni)

Rating: 8 / 10

Imagine yourself immersed and bearing witness to the life and ordeals faced by the Messiah... in the perspective of pigs!

ENTABLADO (ENterteynment para sa TAo, Bayan, LAnsangan at DiyOs) culminates it 27th Season with the adaptation of one of beloved children storybook writer Rene Villanueva's original work's "Ang Unang Baboy sa Langit".

With a running time of almost two and a half hours, the story, as adapted and written by Filipino professor Christine Bellen, tells the tale of the birth of the "Takdang Baboy" (TB), who will be the one to save his fellow pigs from the ill effects of pollution, greed and animosity. Her birth was prophesied by the Rabbit Angel to an ordinary pig couple, Ponyang and Kardo. The chosen pic was asked to be baptized as "Butsiki".

However, when Ponyang was about to give birth, conflict arises when the Punong Baboy (acts like a governor) of the Babuyan Islands decices to acquire and buy the land of his constituents to use it as a mining site upon learning of the vast gold resources of the place. Kardo opposed this and he, together with his pregant wife, decided to move out to the next town. It is in there that Butsiki was born and she grew to be somewhat different from the rest of the pigs, physically and psychologically. She was born very clean, loves cleanliness and hates any sight or smell of dirt. She is also a peace-loving person and is ready to sacrifice anything for what she believe is right. This unique way of thinking of Butsiki will be the one spelling trouble for her.

Bellen's script is succesful in getting the message of Rene Villanueva's transmitted through the play's dialogues. The play served as a tribute to Villanueva, who passed away two years ago. The script followed the narrative of Jesus Christ's life and ministry, suffering and death, however told through the innocent eyes of cute little pigs. The songs written were apt for the message that the play wants on to pass on to the viewers. The comedic wit also balances out the sometimes melodramatic parts.

Direction was also fine as Respeto managed to extarct every possible creative juice from what was given to him. The stage was awesome and it was the first time that the venue (Rizal Mini Theater), did not have any dividers separating it in the entire history of the theater. As for the singing, we could not expect a lot from the actors since Entablado is not primarily a musical group, but still, the singing was commendable despite several flaws, most of them due to off-keys. But acting-wise, the viewes could be so sure that the ensemble gave their whole talents and effort in making their performances as impressing as possible. Special commendation must be given to Jethro Tenorio due to his over-the-top, yet still alluring portrayal of the loathed Punong Baboy.

One of the main reasons why this production was a success was because of the great costumes. The costumes were perfectly fit for all characters. The "animals" within the actors clearly stood out because of it. Great job on the make-up too.

Overall, "Ang Unang Baboy sa Langit" wasvery good and it never failed in getting its message delievered, precisely about how making our world cleaner and safer is directly associated in generating peace.


***sorry for the somewhat unorganized and hasty review. I was kinda sleepy already while I was doing this.***

Text Joke #3 - Pick-Up Lines

And since its the merry season when love blossoms with the sweet smell of those dark red roses, I want to list some pick-up lines.

• "Is Geometry your favorite subject?... Because you look good at any angle..."

• "Do you know that I am a scientist?... Because you are my lab..."

• "What is your height?... Because I didn't know how you managed to get into my heart..."

• "I think you are good in creating stuff... Because you always make my day."

• "Are you a cliif? It's because I fell for you."

• "I am a bee. Can you be my honey?"

• "Do you have a license? Coz you're driving me crazy!"

• "Hindi tayo tao... Hindi tayo hayop... Bagay tayo."

=)) okay, enough of the cheesiness. I actually haven't tried any of these yet. But you could!! Who knows, the key to winning that special someone is flashing right in front of your screens.

Happy pick-up-ing! Hahaha!

"I Feel No Pressure Right Now"

Hahaha, okay that line is from the text quote I received earlier. Ahh, I'll be getting ready again for a barage of cheesy love quotes flooding my text line as Heart's Day is around the corner.

But why the hell do we celebrate Valentine's anyway?! That doomed day with sparks flying out of every corner (most especially in the tiniest nooks. For sure there are lots of things SHOOTING in there. Hahaha). That day where flower vendors very much practice the economic law of demand due to the skyrocketing prices of their merchandise. That day when the poor little ants couldn't munch on leftover sweets on the grocery shelves. That day wherein people adores bloody red. That day wherein you could see lots of couples cuddling and caressing and smooching and gratifying their urges for a little dose of sensuality and a lot of love.

And I don't know whether to be happy or frustrated about it. LoL.

But still, I don't want to feel any pressure right now. :)) And I want it to stay that way. I know that it'll come in due time. Being patient is worth it, I suppose. Di'ba friend? :p

P.S. You want proof? I saw that person earlier. Not once. Nor twice. But thrice. And everytime I saw that person, he seemed a little bit nicer. His smiles are the best. haha. But really, there's nothing more to it. I am more than happy seeing him each day, and being just a friend. :D

Congestion

Yay! I finally get to write something really personal. Haha. I was supposed to do this yesterday, but as usual, I slacked off.

***

Anyway, it is a good thing that my hell week is kinda over. Professors are weird. They try to cram theor tests and other requirements before the end of January. Is it the only month that they know?!

***

But despite the hellish workload, somethings make my day happy. Of course, first on the list are my loves. Yesterday was such a good time. Such that we ended up scrambling our way in the busy outskirts of Katipunan Avenue for our long test in Mathematical Economics. Alas, we were late. Just by a minute though. Screw the stupid MMDA officials and Ateneo traffic officials. They have been doing it for years, yet nothing is happening. I love the ride back to school anyway. Fun and perky!

***

What more worsens a very bad traffic than a heavy downpour! The rain is so strong, that it congested Katipunan traffic when I was about to go home. I was stuck for almost an hour in just a road spanning a kilometer! Slower than a turtle. The reason? The stupid city planners of Quezon City doesn;t seem to know what the word 'drainage' means. Water is like a foot deep making only one lane passable. When four lanes, become one? Its Hell!

***

Its a tiring day. I accompanied my kids to their exposure trip in a child center in Cubao. I swear, the kids there are super mega hyper to thenest level! My almost unlimited patience seemed to found its match. Especially when they pinch you hard and they just jump on your back! I pity the persons taking care of those kids. Good thing they are still alive. Haha.

***

To cap off the week, I spent Saturday partying with, well, guess who? NUMBERS! Accounting LT is coming up and I have to be ready. I think that its the only subject wherein I have a good standing currently. And I hope I could maintain it. But the presence of your bestfriend makes everything smooth sailing. Of course, in between those crazy worksheets comes kwentos, chismis and love tales shared over some coffee and junk food. Awww I'm so happy for her. :P Raz I'll give you a month. That perhaps is still long! Hahaha!

***

Too bad I couldnt come to Tin's debut tomorrow. If ever, I would also have sung! Too bad the crowd there will miss a performance of a lifetime. :))

I'm looking forward the week ahead with optimism and possibly a fresh vigor.

The Obama Euphoria

So much has been said about the inspiration that Barack Obama brought not only to America, but to the whole world as well.

Now that he has sworn in as the 44th President of the most powerful country in the world, will he live up to the promise of change, that served as his torch during the campaign trail? Or is everything just pure hype?

A born leader? Or just a good speaker?

Will the first African-American president of the US be put in the league of the just few great chief executives of America?

Let us suspend judgement. Let us see and and witness if this man could truly deliver.

Bebe Gandanghari

From the ashes of Rustom Padilla, rise the beautiful, sophisticated Bebe Gandanghari (pronounced Bibi).

Saktong ganda lang, teh!! haha!

David Archuleta is a Fan of Charice!

American Idol Season 7 runner-up, David Archuleta, said Charice has one of the best voices he has heard in a long time

Both Charice and David Archuleta were part of Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade last November 2008, unfortunately, they never had the chance to talk and get to know each other.
But the American Idol Season 7 finalist, despite his busy schedule, took time to expressed his admiration of Charice through his multiply account journal entry last January 6, 2009:

“Before I go, I wan­ted to mention one thing real quick. I was
ha­nging out at my house when my parents called me in to watch a story on
Oprah about this girl named Charice. I had seen her on Youtube before and she
was at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, but it was ama­zing to hear her story
and her voice!

“She seriously has one of the best voices I’ve heard in a long time,
and I had chills the entire time I was wat­ching about her life. So, instead
of a song for the day I think you should check her out! It’s more like a person
for the day. Ha! Ha!

“She was really ins­piring and for those of you who haven’t heard
her yet, I think you’re in for a real treat! She sang My Heart Will Go On during
her appearance on Oprah, and it’s ama­zing to see how much passion she has
for what she does! I also loved how she talked about how important her mom was
to her. I hope you guys enjoy.”

Hmm, perhaps a duet of puppy-eyed David and awe-strucking Charice would be a good idea after all.

66th Golden Globe Awards Winners

Motion picture and television nominees and winners for the 66th annual Golden Globe Awards.
** denotes the winning nominee in each category.

FILM

BEST FEATURE - DRAMA
"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
"Frost/Nixon"
"The Reader"
"Revolutionary Road"
** "Slumdog Millionaire"

BEST FEATURE - COMEDY
"Burn After Reading"
"Happy-Go-Lucky"
"In Bruges"
"Mamma Mia!"
** "Vicky Cristina Barcelona"

ACTOR - DRAMA
Leonardo DiCaprio - "Revolutionary Road"
Frank Langella - "Frost/Nixon"
Sean Penn - "Milk"
Brad Pitt - "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
** Mickey Rourke - "The Wrestler"

ACTRESS - DRAMA
Anne Hathaway - "Rachel Getting Married"
Angelina Jolie - "Changeling"
Meryl Streep - "Doubt"
Kristin Scott Thomas - "I've Loved You So Long"
** Kate Winslet - "Revolutionary Road"

ACTOR - COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Javier Bardem - "Vicky Cristina Barcelona"
** Colin Farrell - "In Bruges"
James Franco - "Pineapple Express"
Brendan Gleeson - "In Bruges"
Dustin Hoffman - "Last Chance Harvey"

ACTRESS - COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Rebecca Hall - "Vicky Cristina Barcelona"
** Sally Hawkins - "Happy-Go-Lucky"
Frances McDormand - "Burn After Reading"
Meryl Streep - "Mamma Mia!"
Emma Thompson - "Last Chance Harvey"

SUPPORTING ACTOR
Tom Cruise, "Tropic Thunder"
Robert Downey Jr., "Tropic Thunder"
Ralph Fiennes, "The Duchess"
Philip Seymour Hoffman, "Doubt"
** Heath Ledger, "The Dark Knight"

SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Amy Adams, "Doubt"
Penelope Cruz, "Vicky Cristina Barcelona"
Viola Davis, "Doubt"
Marisa Tomei, "The Wrestler"
** Kate Winslet, "The Reader"

BEST DIRECTOR
** Danny Boyle, "Slumdog Millionaire"
Stephen Daldry, "The Reader"
David Fincher, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
Ron Howard, "Frost/Nixon"
Sam Mendes, "Revolutionary Road"

SCREENPLAY - MOTION PICTURE
** Simon Beaufoy, "Slumdog Millionaire"
David Hare, "The Reader"
Peter Morgan, "Frost/Nixon"
Eric Roth, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
John Patrick Shanley, "Doubt"

FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM
"The Baader Meinhof Complex" (Germany)
"Everlasting Moments" (Sweden)
"Gomorrah" (Italy)
"I've Loved You So Long" (France)
** "Waltz with Bashir" (Israel)

ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
"Bolt"
"Kung Fu Panda"
** "Wall-E"

ORIGINAL SCORE
Alexandre Desplat– "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
Clint Eastwood — "Changeling"
James Newton Howard — "Defiance"
** A.R. Rahman — "Slumdog Millionaire"
Hans Zimmer — "Frost/Nixon"

ORIGINAL SONG
"Down to Earth" — "Wall-E" (Music by Peter Gabriel, Thomas Newman; Lyrics by Peter Gabriel)
"Gran Torino" — "Gran Torino (Music by Clint Eastwood, Jamie Cullum, Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens; Lyrics by Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens)
"I Thought I Lost You — "Bolt" (Music & Lyrics by Miley Cyrus, Jeffrey Steele)
"Once in a Lifetime" — "Cadillac Records" (Music & Lyrics by Beyoncé
Knowles, Amanda Ghost, Scott McFarnon, Ian Dench, James Dring, Jody Street)
** "The Wrestler" — "The Wrestler" (Music & Lyrics by Bruce Springsteen)

TELEVISION

TELEVISION SERIES - COMEDY OR MUSICAL
** "30 Rock"
"Californication"
"Entourage"
"The Office"
"Weeds"

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES -COMEDY OR MUSICAL
Christina Applegate - "Samantha Who?"
America Ferrera - "Ugly Betty"
** Tina Fey - "30 Rock"
Debra Messing - "The Starter Wife"
Mary-Louise Parker - "Weeds"

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES - COMEDY OR MUSICAL
** Alec Baldwin - "30 Rock"
Steve Carell - "The Office"
Kevin Connelly - "Entourage"
David Duchovny - "Californication
Tony Shalhoub - "Monk"

TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
"Dexter" (Showtime)
"House" (Fox)
"In Treatment" (HBO)
** "Mad Men" (AMC)
"True Blood" (HBO)

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
Sally Field — "Brothers and Sisters"
Mariska Hargitay — "Law and Order: Special Victims Unit"
January Jones — "Mad Men"
** Anna Paquin — "True Blood"
Kyra Sedgwick — "The Closer

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA
** Gabriel Byrne — "In Treatment"
Michael Hall — "Dexter"
Jon Hamm — "Mad Men"
Hugh Laurie — "House"
Jonathan Rhys Meyers — "The Tudors"

MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
"A Raisin in the Sun"
"Bernard and Doris"
"Cranford"
** "John Adams"
"Recount"

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Judi Dench — "Cranford"
Catherine Keener — "An American Crime"
** Laura Linney — "John Adams"
Shirley Maclaine — "Coco Chanel"
Susan Sarandon — "Bernard and Doris"

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Ralph Fiennes — "Bernard and Doris"
** Paul Giamatti — "John Adams"
Kevin Spacey — "Recount"
Kiefer Sutherland — "24: Redemption"
Tom Wilkinson –"Recount"

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Eileen Atkins — "Cranford"
** Laura Dern — "Recount"
Melissa George — "In Treatment"
Rachel Griffiths — "Brothers and Sisters"
Dianne Wiest — "In Treatment"

PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION
Neil Patrick Harris — "How I Met Your Mother"
Denis Leary — "Recount"
Jeremy Piven — "Entourage"
Blair Underwood — "In Treatment"
** Tom Wilkinson — "John Adams"

Porn Industry Needs a Bailout Too!

Porn baron Larry Flynt is seeking a $5 billion bailout from Washington to rejuvenate the industry, which he says is suffering because of the economic downturn.

The Hustler magazine founder has teamed up with fellow adult entertainment mogul Joe Francis, creator of the Girls Gone Wild video series, to approach Congress for the same kind of financial assistance recently approved for car manufacturers.

The pair have asked the 111th Congress, which convened on Tuesday with the economy at the top of its agenda, "to rejuvenate the sexual appetite of America" with a bailout.

"Congress seems willing to help shore up our nation's most important businesses, (and) we feel we deserve the same consideration," Francis said in a statement.

"In difficult economic times, Americans turn to entertainment for relief. More and more, the kind of entertainment they turn to is adult entertainment."

"The take here is that everyone and their mother want to be bailed out from the banks to the big three," Owen Moogan, a spokesman for Flynt, told CNN.

"The porn industry has been hurt by the downturn like everyone else and they are going to ask for the $5 billion. Is it the most serious thing in the world? Is it going to make the lives of Americans better if it happens? It is not for them to determine."

In an interview with entertainment news website TMZ, Francis admitted the move was more of a "precautionary measure" than an emergency rescue, "but as long as the government is handing out money, we want to be there to take it."

The pair acknowledge that although DVD sales and rentals have dropped 22 per cent over the past year, online traffic has continued to grow.

"The 13-billion-dollar industry is in no fear of collapse," they say. "But why take chances?" Francis, who was last year freed from almost a year in jail after pleading no contest to child abuse and prostitution charges in a plea deal, told CNN they planned to deliver the request "to our congressmen and (Secretary of the Treasury Henry) Paulson" by the end of Wednesday.

"With all this economic misery and people losing all that money, sex is the farthest thing from their mind," Flynt said in a statement. People were "too depressed to be sexually active", which was "very unhealthy as a nation. Americans can do without cars and such, but they cannot do without sex."

He said the only way Congress could "rejuvenate" America's sexual appetite was "by supporting the adult industry and doing it quickly." There was no response from Congress to the request.

from: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/4165049/US-porn-industry-seeks-multi-billion-dollar-bailout.html

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Wow, I didn't know that this economic slump will even make Americans crave less for sexual pleasure. Now I don't know whether that would be good or bad. Haha!

Text Joke #2 - Edward Cullen Meets Belo

This is a joke in Tagalog but I translated it into English to give consideration to other readers.

To those who don't know, Dr. Vicky Belo is a popular dermatologist and "doctor to the stars" here in the Philippines.

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One day, Dr. Vicky Belo saw Edward Cullen in Terraces...

Vicki Belo was mesmerized and awestruck by the sheer beauty and aura that
Edward has. She couldn't resist but to touch his face.

But Edward resisted. He said...

"I'm sorry, Only Bella Touches My Skin."

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Goodnight all. :P

Text Joke #1

Still with the New Year's spirit, my first entry on text jokes would be about it. :P (this one is in Tagalog)

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Mga resolutions ko ngayong Bagong Taon:

1. Hindi na ako mangangako, PROMISE!

2. Hindi na ako mag-iingles. Never again!

3. Hindi na ako magsusugal. Pustahan pa tayo.

4. At hindi na ako magsasalita ng patapos. Period!

5. And last but not the least, hindi na ako mag-g-GM!

---GM---

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Funny if you get it. :)) You're a loser if you don't. :p

Speaking of resolutions, do you have one?

Well me, I gave up on them. I formulate them each year, generally the same. Yet, I always become lame to follow it. Too sad. Hahaha!!

Finally!

Okay, like after 576,000 years (or perhaps decades), I'm blogging again. And mind you, it coincided with the first day of the year! Happy 2009 everyone!! :)

Getting started, I pretty guess that most of my posts here would pe purely random that I could think about. Some fun stuff, crazy ideas, wild philosophies, petty articles, heart aches, love crap, etc chever chorva chuva! Rest assured it'll be wacky, mostly dealing with (narcissistic) me. Hahaha!

Once again, I extend my warmest greetings as we celebrate the beginning of another year! Cheers for the next 365 days of peace, joy and some good lovin'!


P.S. Yellow is the color of fashion and luck this year! ;)