Hollow Blocks

Gestures and Greetings of the Arabs

2011-09-21T11:14:00.000-07:00

In the arab culture, gestures and greetings are important part of social life. It is a norm for every man to acknowledge the presence of every person within your space. Unlike in the Philippines or most western culture that i know where a simple nod is enough as a greeting, it is necessary to say "Assalamalaikum" or give a hand shake even in informal situations. They never runout of standard phrases to sayeverytime they meet a person even let say they have met the person a while ago.

Here are some of the important phrases and gestures that they say and do:

Assalamalaikum- the english translation of this is "peace e upon you". Although this is a Muslim greeting, this phrase is embedded in the Arab culture. It is commonly said to a person you just see or an introduction in every phone call.

Kef halek- this means how are you. A standard phrase after assalamalaikum. But i've noticed that they just don't consider the person they're talking with but also they ask how's everyone in the family,friends etc.

Jazak allah kheir- translated as "may God reward you" in english. A phrase commonly say after a thank you or "shukran". This may also mean thank you but saying after thank you emphasizes the meaning.

Yatik al affiyah- "may God give you strength". I often hear this during as a closing remark like saying goodbye or even just seeing a person.

Putting a hand in the chest- this is a commond gesture which means that it is a pleasure meeting a person after a greeting.

Kissing in the cheek- i find it very awkward the first time i saw a man kissing another man in the cheek. It is one of the few things i've noticed when i arrived in Saudi Arabia the first time. It is common norm throughout the arab world to kiss a friend or a family in thr cheek. However this is only true for the same sex. A man kissing a woman who is not a close relative is hardly acceptable. I also noticed that there is a standard way of performing this (i've secretly studied the technique everyitme a situation.

Pilipino Ako! Pero.

2011-05-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

Masarap maging Pinoy. Maabilidad, matalino, masigasig, matiyaga at masipag. Pero sa kabila nito. May mga bagay na dapat siguro na isantabi na natin. Mga bagay na humahadlang sa atin para marating talaga ang tunay na ibig sabihin ng Galing ng Pilipino.

Sadya kong isinulat ang post na ito sa salitang tanging Pinoy lang ang makakaintindi. Para lubos nating maunawaan ang ating mga kakulangan. Kumbaga "Usapang Pamilya lang." Ang layunin ko ay para harapin ang katotohanan na meron talaga tayong problema sa ating kinagisnan at marahil sa ating kultura na dapat na natin iwanan o di kaya kalimutan na lang. Katulad ng mga sumusunod.

Pakikisama. Sa papaanong paraan nga ba ang tamang pakikisama? Pakikisama para saan? Sama sama sa pag unlad? Sama sama din ba tayong maghihirap? Ang Pinoy likas na matulungin. Pero minsan sa ang pagtulong natin sa kapwa, may hinahanap na kapalit. Kahit sa maling paraan. Halimbawa may humingi ng pabor sa isang tao, madalas may inaasahan tayong kapalit sa pagtulong na kahit sa maling paraan o panahon ay hihingin natin ito sa taong tinulungan dahil sa konsepto ng "Utang na loob" na kapag tumanggi ka na tumulong, sasabihin sa'yo wala kang pakisama. Kahit na ang hinihingi sayong pabor kapalit ng tulong ay ang paggawa ng maling bagay. Madalas ito sa pulitika. Kaya nga marami tayong nahahalal na pinuno kahit hindi naman sapat ang abilidad para mamuno. Kasi nahalal lang dahil sa pakikisama.

Malapit sa Pamilya. Hindi ko naman sinasabing masama ito. Pero may ilang mga bagay na naglalagay sa atin sa kapahamakan dahil na rin sa Pamilya. Mga taong ikinukubli o di kaya'y kinukunsinti ang maling gawain ng kapamilya kasi pamilya nga eh. Dapat ipagtanggol. Pero ipagtanggol sa maling paraan. Kaya nga sa Pilipinas maraming political dynasty. Kasi kinunsinti din natin na magkaroon ng mga ganito. Hinayaan natin na may maluklok sa posisyon kahit hindi naman para sa bayan ang interes.

Talangka. Hindi ko alam kung bakit sa atin pa napunta ang ganitong kaisipan. Maiuugnay din natin ito sa pakikisama. Sa isang banda naisip ko kaya siguro natin hinahatak ang isang taong umaangat kasi gusto natin pantay pantay tayo. Walang lamangan. Kung saan yung isa, doon dapat lahat. Inggit. Maling pakikisama.

Regionalism. Hindi ko alam kung ano ang tamang salita sa Tagalog dito. Pero naitatanong ko rin to palagi sa isip ko. Bakit sa Pinas magawi ka lang sa norte iba na ang salita. Bakit ang tao kapag tinawag na bisaya (aminin natin ang realidad) baduy o di kaya katulong. Si Inday o si Dodong. Siguro dala na rin ng pagkakalayo layo ng mga isla sa Pinas kung bakit hindi tayo magkasundu-sundo. Kung bakit iba iba tayo ng paniniwala. Dito rin lumalabas ang pagiging racist natin. Ang Pinoy kapag nakakarinig ng biro galing sa ibang bansa umaangal agad. Pero bakit tayo may mga tawag din tayo sa ibang lahi. Halimbawa na lang sa mga Indians ang tawag natin bumbay na nagpa 5-6 at nagbebenta ng payong at kumot.

"Bakit kapag nagsalita ka ng ingles sasabihin sayo sosyal o trying hard o di kaya call center agent?" Samantalang natural naman sa Pinoy ang magsalita ng English. Tayo nga lang yata ang may ganitong salita sa asya. Dito tayo angat kaya hindi dapat iniisip ang mali sa pagsasalita ng ingles.

Sa bandang huli Pilipino pa rin tayo. Palagi nating sinasabi "Proud to be Pinoy". Ayaw nating na mababa ang tingin sa atin ng ibang tao. Pero naitanong ba natin sa mga sarili natin kung nararapat ba talaga tayong ipagmalaki ang sarili natin? Masayang maging Pinoy pero masmainam kung maitatakwil na natin yung mga ganitong kaisipan na humahatak sa atin pababa. Parang talangka...

What a life?

2011-04-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

Days really fly so fast. I will be celebrating my birthdays after two weeks and I'm not getting any younger at twenty five. So what's in an age? It has been always a mind boggling topic for me to come and think about how people age and how it materializes into steps in life where you find your fate unpredictable. I always look up to something whenever i get older. I start to realize the things that I have, the things I've made, and my plans for the future. Suddenly, I am a bit scared with a feeling of being challenged on how I grasp life.

I am young. And this has been a fact for so many years that I try so hard to avoid thinking about how my life would be ten or twenty years from now. However, it is really an obsession of my mind to analyze the life of other people and reflect myself through it. Whenever I meet or hear a story about a person, I begin to seek interesting details about life. The bachelor years, career, marriage, family, children, etc. And all of these things I delineate in my mind a timeframe of a person's life. In order for me to analyze in a more tangible way.

Most of the people I look after to are the professionals or I'd rather say career-oriented people. Because it seems to be a realistic manifestation of a good life (in my opinion). However I also see life of common people. Based on what I saw, most people who chose to concentrate on their career had much chances of getting a stable life. Since most of them tend not to get married right away. A life being single. Where most of the chances are visible without any hesitation. A life with no strings attached where you have enough time and freedom to take the best opportunities. More time being you and building yourself for the better until you finally giving up all these for the family. This is one way of how I visualize life into a perspective. But nevertheless, you can't really perfect life nor predict what will happen afterwards.

The Down Syndrome

2011-03-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

I really don't know what I am feeling right now. I'm always attacked by the feeling of insecurity and there's no way i can find to cure it. It's more like a cardiac arrest and maybe writing this may help to outburst the pain I am experiencing.

It was a good start today at work. Just got a fairly good cheer from my co-workers. But end up really unwell because of unpredicted situation i wasn't able to handle. I am the project manager of a construction site and I find it really challenging for my career to have an opportunity like this. Considering I am still in the inception of the industry. It is a small project though I am in charge of everything from planning and design up to the supervision and quality inspection. Beside me handling this project is Kudur, a Syrian sidekick working for my Arab boss for almost twelve years and Shaheen, a Pakistani working as a freelance electrician for almost ten years. It was a "Good Group" as my boss said and indeed it was. And to come and think about it, I am really proud that though being a newbie, I was given a good break for the start seeing the importance of my position regardless of the few experience I've had.

We had a good deal and a smooth sailing workflow. However, I am quite reluctant and skeptical about the stability and my situation being the head of the Project team. Maybe because of the inferiority complex that suddenly kills me. It starts when my boss seeks for the report of Kudur regarding the project situation. Since Kudur has worked for my boss for a long time, he has already gained the trust of my boss to all the business transactions including some personal errands of my boss, Kudur is always there. Most of the time I felt like i was "left behind". Perhaps because I am young, or maybe I don't know arabic which is practically the language used since most of the people here don't speak and understand English.

Can't really do anything to stop this anxiety at the moment. I hope it will just be frozen in oblivion.

Homesick

2010-10-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

Unti-unti ko nang nami miss ang Pilipinas. Bakit ba ang hirap mong makalimutan. Bakit ba palagi kitang naiisip. Namimiss ko na ang patagaktak ng pawis ko sa init ng trapik sa EDSA. Ang fishball at kikyam kaya 50 cents pa rin? Gusto ko nang makipag inuman sa kanto kasama ang mga sunog bagang mga tambay.
Ang taho, balot, penoy, betamax, isaw at tokneneng. Ang magulong palengke. Ang ulan at baha. Ang makukulit kong kapatid na madalas kong kabangayan. Ang mga kakulitan kong mga pinsan. Mga kamag anak namin na hindi ko naman masyado kilala pero oras na makita ako magtatanong ng "Kanino ka bang anak?" Ang maingay na jeep at ang matagtag na tricycle. Ang simbahan sa bayan na madalas tagpuan. Ang barkada na akala mo noon lang nagkita kita kapag magkakasama. Ang aso ko. Ang maliit kong kwarto na tanaw ang sikat ng araw tuwing umaga. Ang mga magulang ko na paborito akong sawayin. Malamang malungkot sila ngayon. Wala kasing nang aasar sa kanila. Minsan prang gustong tumulo ng luha ko. Pero h'wag. Maslalo lang akong malulungkot. Ang hirap pala mag-isa. Napapaisip tuloy ako minsan. Mga ganitong oras nagluluto na siguro si Nanay ng agahan. Siguro naglalaro nanaman ng basketball sa labas ang mga pinsan kong makukulit. Nagsimba siguro sila nung linggo. Madalas siguro kong hinahanap ng tropa. Hindi ko na alam kung pano itutuloy. Kasi masmalulungkot lang ako kapag inalala ko pa ang lahat ng masasaya. Lalo na ang Pasko, bagong taon, birthday at lahat ng okasyon na alam mong ikatutuwa mo kapag nandoon ka. Pero pass muna. Bakante ang upuan ko ngayon sa Pinas. Pag-uwi ko magkikita kita ulit tayo.

The Joy from Happiness

2010-10-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

Jim Carrey once said "I wish everyone could experience being rich and famous, so they'd see it wasn't the answer to anything".... I think he was right. There are lot of things here on earth that we take for granted. Thinking that there is something missing in our lives. We keep on finding what we don't have. And finding that "missing thing" doesn't really suffice our needs. Doesn't really make us happy...or joyful i must say.

Joy is different. It is something beyond what happiness is. A lasting feeling of satisfaction. More sincere and unconditional. Doesn't require much to get. Perhaps you have to do is to appreciate more than criticism. As the saying goes "All of the best things in life are free." The air, sunshine, rain...everything that is already there but we often take for granted. The morning sky, a greeting from a friend, an empty parking slot, a message of sweet nothings, a "thank you". We didn't buy them, yet somehow it makes us feel better. We feel blessed for we are appreciated.

Thank you Lord.

Unsolicited Suggestions of The World

2010-10-24T04:15:00.000-07:00

The world has evolved completely from the ancient civilization to the modern day era brought about most of the technology. The sudden innovation of technology really is the prime suspect of all the advancement in the lifestyle of a man. As time goes by, man embraces a new trend of living and this situation is always the starting point of change of human "needs" towards the "wants".

Food, shelter, clothing and others are our basic needs to sustain everyday life. What comes beyond these are the wants. The wants that leads to craving that the world suggests you want them. To start with, the internet. We have lived so many years ago without the internet, without the facebook, without even knowing what has happened to our friends seconds ago. We still breathe air without giving a single tweet or even writing an article on a blog like this. But why do we patronize such unsolicited suggestions? Because we are already a part of a vast change. And living without it means inexistence. The reasonable part of it is that it is profitable. With these constant communication, we try to sell something new that is marketable. Like mobile phones with cameras that suggest you to take pictures of anything and everything you want wherever you are. Phones we used for talking that are now we called android because we can do almost everything on it. Write a blog, watch movies, video chat, play games and so on and so forth.

Come and think about it. Do you really have to watch an HD movie while riding on a train? Do you really have to tell everyone what you are doing right now? what will be your dinner or who's with you at the moment? Is it really important that you assume you have an audience for this blog? Will i die if i didn't watch the latest post on youtube? Let's think again.

According to Maslow, the top of all human needs is self actualization. A stage in which what a man can be, he must be. A life fulfilled without the inferiority. Satisfaction without being what the world suggest you should be.

Basically in the sophistication of life nowadays, it is really hard to obtain self-actualization. For there are lots of things that we think we need. And that part of the culture that tells you what you lack and what you should do. But the real question that we forgot to ask ourselves is "what do we already have?"

NAIA

2010-10-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

Who can tell? That i will become an OFW someday. It was two years then since I started writing this blog and most of my posts deal about the life of Filipinos working and living abroad. It was more of a drawing. A question of how would it be like to be an OFW. But what the real thing is for me to reveal now that I am one of them.

It was August 15 of this year when I left the country for the opporunity that called me. An opportunity that I cannot resist. Because chances don't come everyday.

It was my first time to work, live and travel out of the country and this maybe one of the most life changing experiences I have encountered. Mixed emotions, Significant places and important persons that i have been redefined to me as i brace myself for an adventure I am yet to discover.

NAIA. I already knew the meaning of this airport before but it was more of an International airport. I realized that it was a hub of dreams. A terminal filled with scenes that tell you more of a story by just staring people from afar. Some are bread winners, good fathers, loving mothers, expatriates, a happy family, a good son and daughter and many more.

Bottomline is that I am now one of those thousands and thousands of Filipino leaving the life in the Philippines for better opportunities abroad. For family, for self, for career, for the country. Perhaps I can already prove how it feels like to be an OFW. The people who we call "Mga Bagong Bayani."

Owepdabalyu

2009-11-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Ma,

Kumusta na kayo diyan sa America? Malamig na daw ngayon diyan. Ang bilis ng panahon noh,parang kailan lang nung umalis kayo dahil wala akong pang tuition sa kolehiyo. Siya nga pala natanggap ko na yung pinadala niyo. Ang gaganda ng mga damit, yung para kay tatay ibibigay ko na lang sa kanya pag nagpunta siya rito sa bahay. Bihira na kasi siya umuwi simula nung tuluyan na silang magsama nung gerlpren niya. Yung pera na pinadala niyo,si lola ang naghahawak. Baka daw kasi ipang inom na naman ng mga barkada ni ate. Mag eenrol pa naman si jun jun sa susunod na sem. Ako nay, next year na lang siguro ko mag-aaral. Malapit na kasi manganak si jane. Magiging tatay na ko at lola na kayo. Saka ko na lang iisipin yung plano natin na maging nurse ako.Marami pa naman sigurong panahon. Sana dito na lang kayo. Namimiss na siguro kayo nina ate at jun jun. Hanggang dito na lang nay at baka umiyak pa kayo. Ingat po kayo diyan

love,

Andrew

Wake Me Up When September Ends

2009-09-30T21:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday September 30...It was payday and I want a new pair of shoes. On my way going to mall I was stock into traffic. Staring at the window of the bus, a young guy caught my attention. He was looking at the tall buildings of the city from the sidewalk. I knew that I saw him before. Then I remembered. He was a cashier in a nearby convenience store where we use to buy food when I was assigned on a jobsite before. He reminds me of my younger brother. A poor boy with small built similar to a high school student who’s bullied by anyone in the class. My brother works as a kitchen crew on a hotel. His job wasn’t that easy for what I see, he’s waking very early to go to work because his workplace is far away from home and comes home very late that we can’t even talk because when I come home, he’s either asleep, leaving or on at work. The worst is that his earnings merely suffice his transportation expense. He often had empty pockets. I wish I can find a better job for him.
In the mall, I checked my salary on the ATM. On the screen, I was reluctant of the amount deposited on my account. I think I wasn’t paid enough but then I still withdrawn cash, the mall will be closing soon. I’ve seen all the shoes from different boutiques for me to have a good comparison, and then I picked the best for me. On a shoe stall, a group of saleslady was talking about their earnings for the week. One Saleslady was so glad she had earned that much. Then I remembered the money I withdrawn. It was bigger than her salary. I was humiliated by her happiness. I keep on asking for something else while others treasure with a little.
I was ashamed of my attitude. I forgot simple things that I need to understand. I kept on looking for something new just to fulfill my happiness not realizing that the only thing I need is just a simple appreciation of the things that I already have. I’m lucky enough. My salary wasn’t that big but I can afford the things that I want. I have a job. I have a home. We’re not affected by the calamity caused by the storm. There are so many reasons to be thankful for. I don’t really need a new pair of shoes. I still have more than enough on my rack. Funny how buying a new pair of shoes awakened me somehow.

How to Save a Life?

2008-12-10T22:07:00.000-08:00

If someone is falling down the unsteady road, would you try to save a life? Perhaps it will depend if he’s willing to be helped. But if you try to reach out in a way or another, his response shall answer if he needs your help. It’s a matter of choice—to help, be helped, get help. Somebody told me we should help each other for we are one. My delight is also yours, so as my failure. If I see you lose your way and do nothing, the fault will also be mine. For most of the time, I will be your shepherd. For as long as you are willing to be my sheep. I only give instructions to save a life but still it is a choice to get the chance to be saved. This is brotherhood. Life’s a game.

Gold to Dig

2008-08-12T21:28:00.001-07:00

What’s the work for? To earn money for living? To buy things you want? To sustain a lifestyle you ever dreamed of? I didn’t get what’s the point of earning money. I feel that there’s a reason beyond the money from the hours spent at the workplace. Perhaps material things you bought are mere rewards for hardships but more than that is the appreciation of little things money just couldn’t provide. Like a good cheer from your boss, an applause from a crowd, the laughter during office hours, a greeting from an old friend you just met. How about a compliment from people who thought you were a loser. For wherever workplace, in cities, roads, office or shop, I know how earning means. Living for others and living for a living.

Taking Back Sunday 2

2008-07-26T17:33:00.000-07:00

Here I am again over the desk busy working on stuffs that I should work on a beautiful Sunday where everyone rest. I guess this is my life. No Weekends, no Sundays and definitely no playtime. But I still do enjoy being busy right now. I guess this is how life goes on with me. I still thank Him that he provided such opportunities for me. An architect wouldn’t move without projects that’s why I’m lucky to be here. Sacrifices are to be made if you really want to succeed. It’hard but the price worth it. In life, sometimes you have to leave some to gain some. In the end you’ll find out what you’re really looking for and that’s what I’m glad to find out. At this point, I’m clueless about life. It’s a cycle of what’s going on and what will go on. Tomorrow is a new day. Just be thankful.

Alay Sa Nagkamalay Noong Dekada Nobenta

2008-07-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

"Book Launch at Fully Booked - The Fort"

One of my influences in writing is Sir Jay. AKA Batjay. Ang batang kaning-lamig. We've met sometime at the Konyo Bookstore in Taguig. It's been an honor to meet such kind of person. A symbol of a Filipino in Blog history. A creative non-fiction writer that illustrate the strugles and success of most OFW in all corners of the world, from different walks of life. Rendering every word with essences you commonly disregard. Futile facts yet affecting the personality and culture of Filipinos. His unique use of slang words describes his sensitivity. Sarcastic and insulting for most but true and realistic. His style in writing did very well in communicating to the public that made his books taken by storm. As a matter of fact, my copy wasn't still in my hand. Borrowed by a friend cause out of stock in Powerbooks. This is to commemorate a good inspiration. Sir Batjay.

"Bwakanginangyan!!I hate this camera!

Dear Uncle Sam

2008-07-21T16:53:00.000-07:00

Masaya bang tumira sa inyo? Balita ko maraming mga kamag-anak naming ang patay na patay makatapak sa lugar niyo. Ginawa ang lahat para lang makakuha ng VISA. Maraming akong kakilala na nagpunta sa inyo na yumaman. May mga properyunal, skilled workers at kung sinu-sino pa. Iniwan nila ang pamilya nila sa bahay para puntahan ka at para na rin sa pamilyang iniwan nila. Kahit na mahusay at bihasa pa sila, ikaw pa rin ang nilapitan. Di nagtatagal, isasama rin nila ang buong pamilya nila sa iyo. Masaya nga bang tumira sa iyo? Sino ka ba talaga sa palagay mo? Ikaw ba ang sagot sa problema ng pangangailangan ko? Matutulungan mo nga ba talaga ako? Parang ang simple lang ng tanong ko pero ang hirap intindihin. Siguro kapag sinulatan mo ako may linaw na ang gumugulo sa isipan ko.

Nagmamahal,
Anak ng OFW

Taking Back Sunday

2008-07-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

I’ve been so busy with my work since the day I was employed. This is exhilarating at first and quite annoying in the long run. But the bottom line is you get the money, you pay taxes and you become a productive member of the society. I’ve been counting the days until weekend comes, day after day, the office become more of a home to me that it suddenly become my life. Everyday is a working day. No weekends. No time for other necessities of man. Does this life really becoming productive? I can’t even remember the last time I attended a mass or say a prayer at night. Seriously there’s something wrong. I hope I could take back Sundays. A lunch with the family, watch movie with friends, play basketball with younger cousins. How about reading a good book, play with my dog or sit and watch TV all day. I miss weekend.

I Design...

2008-07-17T17:13:00.000-07:00

"I Will Keep You Safe and Warm"

_Architect

I am an architect. Not by law but by the power vested in me to create structures that will protect people from harm, to show beauty of nature, to implement movement of people, to appreciate nature, to reminisce the history and therefore create it.
This is my work. This is my job. To design more than what a man could see. More than what man could think. I am concerned of health more than money, dignity more than profit, beauty more than eyes could see.

I am an architect. I build homes for a family, Offices for real professionals, Places for recreation. Elevating heights of building, Churches for sanctuary of spirit, Schools for effective learning. Cities for happy living and a good community. I will secure homes more than before the guard, I will find a way before the road, I will find a view more than an artist, I will give shelter more than a builder. With my hands you are safe, clean, happy and satisfied. More than that I will show you how good the Creator is.

I am an architect and this is my plan. Soaring humanity. This is my way of commanding people. This is my life.

Wet Shoes

2008-07-15T17:10:00.002-07:00

I was sitting at the window side of the bus on my way home after a long day of work. It was raining. I was reminded again of my childhood blues. When I was a kid, I always dream of wearing comfortable shoes. I consider it more than a need but a luxury since we can’t afford to buy good ones. Many times happened that I got my feet wet from a wrecked pair of shoes. I accept the mere fact because we’re empty handed most of the time. Since then I said to myself “when I grow up I will have the best pair ever”. I consider my feet so important more than a symbol for the walk I make in life. I think that people are characterized somehow of the shoes they have. Some have white, black, clean and simple. Some are sleek and do have diamonds and some are dirty and worn out. It really depends on how it was used and the places it has stepped. I remembered a line from a tv series said “It is important to have good shoes. It shall bring you to places”. Suddenly I was disturbed by the call of the bus conductor. I’m already on the terminal.
Reaching home, I slowly removed my shoes one after another noticing that it was wet. Now and still wet.

Full Battle Gear

2008-07-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

"Teacher Enemy Number One"

When I was a Freshman in the College Years, I had a terror professor. He was capable of eating flesh of student (that’s the way I can describe his teaching strategy) I learned from him the Term Full Battle Gear. Since he was my instructor in Drafting and Design, by the time he says that we should be in Full Battle gear tomorrow, that means that we have to bring complete drafting instruments and materials which includes all the technical pens, triangles, scale, rulers, protractor, pencil and most importantly the T-Square. When you fail to bring the T-square, it means that you’re in hot water. But there are still two options, “GO HOME OR BE DIPPED IN BOILING OIL” (I find it hard to translate I-gisa) But then it was more embarrassing if that teacher caught you drawing without T-square. My classmates had some cool experiences that Architect is a half man half monster teacher. This time they had their drawing instruments ready. The problem is that they weren’t doing the assigned drawing exercise at the moment they get caught. After a minute or two, they were happily asked by our professor what are they doing after seeing them doing some moves of chess facing each other comfortably seated at the drafting table. Suddenly, I heard a deep roaring of thunder when the Professor architect responded and asked them to bring their drawings in front. What happens next is a series of shredded paper constantly blowing at the faces of my two dear classmates. It was a relaxing scene after.

Techie

2008-07-11T04:25:00.000-07:00

Time to embrace the future. The innovation reinvented in terms of presentation and graphic imaging. So what's next?

Why A Country So Blessed Starving?

2008-07-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Government Employee: It’s ok. It wouldn’t amount that much. There’s a lot of supplies in the office. I’ll take this home.

Jeepney Driver: “Thank You sir” after giving then gave money to the MMDA officer after getting caught from a traffic violation.

OFW: “there’s no place like America”

Neighbor of an OFW: Liza has a nice car. Perhaps I can also have that when I go abroad.

Board Topnotcher of Medicine: I will take nursing anyway.

Elementary student: “Ma’am shall I have a passing grade?”

Teacher: “of course you should.” Buy more of my special bibingka.

Businessman: “Shall the bill pass? What do you think?”

Mr. Senator: “At the right price sir. No questions asked.”

"Oh My Gas!"

2008-07-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

When I was riding on a jeep going on my way back home, I noticed the driver talking to a man in the front seat. We were on a stop to refuel. “Magtataas na naman ang gasolina.” As he gave his payment to the gasoline boy. He mentioned that the gas is increasing rapidly and it kills. He doesn’t have any more money to bring home for his family. One round of his route from Quiapo to North EDSA would consume nearly six liters or 300 pesos of gas. That’s pretty hard and it gets even tougher when oil price hike continue. I can see in his eyes that he was threatened by this. “Kapag nagtaas ulit ang gas, hindi na ko babyahe. If fare would still rise, he would just end up with nothing left for his family to eat because the boundary will complement the fare increase” he added. It was alarming in the sense that people would suffer from starvation. I don’t have any idea on how to put things on the right track. The only thing I can do is to sympathize with his lonely ride hoping that this country will soon make up in the future….

Walk Like You Talk and Talk Like You Walk

2008-07-07T02:46:00.000-07:00

In Construction Industry, it is inevitable to meet different people. Architects, engineers, marketing and corporate people. It is very challenging to encounter a conversation with them especially when you’re talking business. On the otherhand, what counts most is that you know what you are talking and what you say speak for yourself. It’s just a matter of how carry things on. Nevertheless, you should have an idea on how to work things out. I really have a fear of talking to people but once you know that you can get his idea, it just run smoothly. I was overwhelmed that I got the opportunity to talk and walk with them. It pushed me a bit to challenge myself to take the Architecture Board Exam in the coming years. But for now, I’m still under observation of my so called niche.

Boston Drama

2008-07-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

Foreign Band? Not really. Typecast is the most influential band in the Philippines when it comes to emotional hardcore music. A blend of foreign influence rendered with the creativity of Filipinos. For someone in Boston, this song really counts.

Standard pick-up lines that seems to wreck your bones
Can this be a sequel of my dying hope?
Chasing down a never ending make-believe
But you’re a perfect match of consistency
Will you come back in a heartbeat?
Don’t be confused of what a great thing we could be
We’ll take a walk on the same street
Can you tell me how Boston is like without me?
You’re image is stamp beneath the insides of my heart
Now you’re gone I don’t know where to start
The evidence is showing like a stable apprehension
But you’re the only one who’s apt for this affection(this affection)
Will you come back in a heartbeat?
Don’t be confused of what a great thing we could be
We’ll take a walk on the same street
Can you tell me how Boston is like without me?

Some of the Longest Lines in the World

2008-07-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

Arranged In Any order

1. Line of people outside the wowowee studio.

2. Vehicles stuck in traffic along EDSA.

3. People at the Philippine Overseas Emloyment Administration waiting for their inquiries.

4. Enrollment Line in Public schools and Universities.

5. Line of People getting Lotto ticket.

6. Unemployed Graduates in all Jobfairs.

"A Manifestation of Reality"

The Art Of Spending

2008-07-02T21:44:00.000-07:00

"Everything Counts"

Things to Remember

1.Don't Spend more than waht you earn. Proceed to step 2

2. Don't try to budget. Make it then proceed to step three

3. Think of your needs before your wants. Go to the last step

4. Remember Step 1.

Feet On the Ground

2008-07-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

"Life Is A Walk"

So what’s new in the world today? Nothing really special. I’m just here for a long journey looking at faces of people and seeing through what they have in life. I’m overwhelmed by the fact that I am working with people from all the walks of life. Professionals, businessmen, regular employees, workers, peasant, elite, people from academe, name them all. From all these different kind of people, I get inspirations, lessons of life that I must have given value. This life must have been a good walk and I hope to see more. Like this blog, it may be meaningless to others. But I want to make it substantial through appreciation of its beauty no matter how vague it may appear.

The Largest Nipa Hut

2008-06-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

A magnificent creation by the Greatest Poet of Space Leandro Locsin

He interpreted the Bahay Kubo (Nipa Hut) into a massive structure built to represent a culture of Filipino and its Architecture.

Situated near the Manila Bay, its building approach accessed through the path similar to the waves of the shore. Massiveness and simplicity of the buildings component ir reflected in the facade.

A true representation of distinctive Filipino Architecture.

"Booksmarts or Streetsmarts?"

2008-06-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

“Someone’s Capability is Immeasurable. It could not be Gauged by the Numbers”

In the industry where I’m involved—Construction and Management, skills are a priority. Especially in handling tasks and creating a sequence of work. There’s so much to learn and see. All you have to do is open your mind to all the opportunities and options.

There are two kinds of People. Those who are in theory—“the Booksmarts” and those who are specialized in experience and the actual--- “ the Streetsmarts”. It has always been an argument who is more capable. A contestant from the TV show “The Apprentice” once said that Books separate Man from Boys. But would that statement define the truth?

Many People could prove something in this scenario.

Michael Dell hasn’t finished his studies because of the small business he had in a small apartment. Eventually he became a Multimillionaire today and one of the top computer selling company.

Frank Lloyd Wright
A pioneer is a pioneer in architecture. He attended high school, but never graduated.

Bill Gates
Was a regular employee before. Today he is the architect of the software giant Microsoft.

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
He created an influential 20th century architectural style, stated with extreme clarity and simplicity.He worked in his father's stone-carving shop.

These people serves as an inspiration to us that lack in education hinder success.

“I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.”
--Mark Twain

Name Game

2008-06-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

"Your Name is the Future"

So what’s in your name? Parents are giving the very best names for their children and sometimes the worst for some people who hate their names. Names could more likely to be an impression of what your future would be that’s why it must have a value. Here are some people who’ve proven that names must be really something that will explain your personality, give statement for outlook and oftentimes define the nature of your existence, your future work and even luck.

Donald Trump- DO-a strong implementation of leadership
TRUMP- may also means triumph

Oprah Winfrey- O- an expression when being amazed
Win-a sure winner

Bill Gates- He must be collecting bills since he hold the key of the Gates

The Walton’s- who’ve built walls of gold over the United States.

Well of course the Filipinos would also dig for the list.

Manny Pacquiao- Manny sounds like money! Pacquiao in Filipino means to buy more or grab them all. So he’s name would mean that he’s getting all the money. Aside from this meaning, it may also sound “manapak-yaw” which means to punch.

Same is true for Manny Villar. On the otherhand, Villar would mean Villas or houses of the aristocrat or the elite where Villar leads in the Industry in the Philippines.

Chasing What You've Chosen

2008-06-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

Destiny. Is it a self proclaimed fact that you are compelled to pursue? Or a mere truth of responsibility? Whatever it means, I guess I have to admit that I’m engaged in the Industry I’ve chosen to take as far as my life goes. When I was at the terminal of high school entering college, I was really reluctant about the course I will be taking. Suddenly, it was Architecture. Why?Actually, it was the first on the course list (since it starts with A). Then as the years goes on in college, I woke up one day that I’m engaged with it and I gave passion through it. After so many trials I’ve worked with, there are times that I just wanted to turn back and raise the white flag. But in the end, I’m still pushed through the limits of my capacity. Moreover, Here I am still working with drawings, plans, talking with people engaged in construction.

Well of course I am having fun with my work. But will this be forever? I asked myself. I’m looking forward for a better niche and I find working abroad as an option.
I have so many plans. For myself, my family and the things that I love. I’m caught in the middle now. But I know in the end things will go my way. Coz everything perfectly fits for a cause. Perhaps sometimes you really have to know what it is.

Leaving on A Jet Plane

2008-06-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

I fetched my brother to the airport this morning. Just a simple thought, this was the second time he was leaving for his work abroad. I wondered what’s in a man’s mind when he leaves his own country. A man trying to cope with a new environment, not his own. Far away from his comfort zone.

Last night I went home just to see everyone’s at home sleeping together in one roof for the very moment. It was really a sudden rush of emotion. It was like turning back time when we all are still young, playing, laughing, shouting, crying and teasing one another. Time really fly so fast. Here we are now, taking each other’s life by themselves. Trying to catch the challenges set by life. We’re on our way now. And from what I see now, I’m hopeful with fingers crossed that everything’s gonna be alright in the end.

To you bro, maybe one day you’ll see this. Though we do not talk that much, I know everything that we have to know. For the mean time, thank you and Goodluck and Godbless us. For what time will hold now will be cherished forever. See you back here.

The Curse in Construction

2008-06-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

Construction must really have gone so far. More advanced technology as it steps towards the future. However, there are also side effects of the industrialization. For what a chainmail has brought me, It says that there are also parts of the construction industry that is quite alarming.

Thank You Mr. Jobs

2008-06-16T22:51:00.001-07:00

My Favorite Gadget

More than a multimedia player, the Ipod and other similar devices have to offer much on my lifestyle. It serves as an earplug when you want to avoid hideous and annoying conversations. You can also use it to make damn talkshits to disturbed people. Last night, I’ve tried it and it made significant effects. Try for yourself.

The Old School

2008-06-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

What’s good about old school? Let me find the ways. For me, it means doing ways in the conventional way (not talking about the trends.). I have been working with the old school. Which means their age are really twice (even thrice) my age. And I really find hard time coping with them. We have different interest (well of course, because of generation gap) I’m on the era of ipods and psp’s while they are still stuck in the middle of the Paleolithic era. I’m trying to teach some of them, but it’s really hard knowing that they still believe in the notion that the conventional way of say computations. It’s hard to teach something when you don’t believe into something that you use. Probably, they are still at the stage of denial. Denying to themselves that they are left behind of time. If only I could shout to them loudly, I will say “grow up old man!”. But I can’t, it’s not possible.

Being Grown Up

2008-06-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

You're too young and you thought that you've learned everything

Life isn't that way

Just take the reality that you're a kid who knows nothing

Listen..

That's how life goes..

oftentimes you were told

because you're too young who knows nothing

Take my advice coz you're just a kid

and know the difference from what is right from wrong

I'm just a kid.

i know and i admit my limitations and the things i understand

But even though i stand this way,

i know that everyone has his right.

Even for a child
I just want to know the mistake of the reality

Let me learn things my own way

Open the mind to see colors of life

Set free and outstanding
You're too youngand still there are lot of things you have to know

I just want to know the mistake in the truth
You're just a kid and you thought that you already learned everything

Learning things on my own way

It's wrong to think that life is a pretty cool paradise

Two Words to Choke Upon

2008-06-12T04:17:00.000-07:00

Given the fact that I am a newcomer in the industry of construction, I can give different meanings when I hear the word under construction. For what I am experiencing now that I’m outside the classroom, I can say that teacher or books hadn’t told anything yet. Not even a preview. Or maybe I was absent when lessons were taught. But Seriously, I should be ready for the real thing.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION- means a structure or establishment is renovated or being rectified or in the process of being established or developed.
Example: The road was closed because it is under construction.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION- means that something is considered under the category of construction.
Example: She belongs to the management while I belong under construction.

This Apartment Is Starving For An Argument

2008-06-11T21:32:00.000-07:00

I’ve been renting a room for the past two months for my work. Perhaps I just want to try something else although I’m not experiencing great difficulties when I commute everyday considering the distance of my workplace to home. It’s not my first time to live this way because I lived in an apartment when I was in college for my thesis. Today, I made some computations for my daily expenses to gauge if it’s really worth the cost. Summing up the cost for renting a space from commuting everyday to home, there’s a pretty negligible difference. But the idea is that.

ADVANTAGE OF RENTING A SPACE:

YOU’RE JUST A RIDE AWAY TO OFFICE. You don’t have to hurry when you’re getting late for work.

DISADVANTAGE:
YOU’RE NOT AT HOME. Which means a lot of adjustments. You cannot do anything you want. What if there’s no water supply? You have to fall in line to take a bath in the morning when you’re renting a bed space.

YOU HAVE TO BUY EVERYTHING IN STORES OUTSIDE. Unless you can cook.

YOU HAVE TO BE INDEPENDENT. Coz mama’s not around to prepare your food or even wake you in the morning.

Thanks to the Man Who Created Virus

2008-06-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

Computer viruses are now dominating the software and hardware industry. It’s inevitable and you really can’t escape from their existence once you face your computer. But come to think about it, Is it a curse or a gift? Everybody hates them for it offers a lot of interruptions and work failures. On the otherhand, the developer of these viruses have come to encourage programmers to develop systems to take actions from the harm. Because of the reaction, it has generated another branch in the computer industry and so forth jobs for millions of programmers in the world and boosts the I.T. industry. In the end, the third law of motion really counts for the scenario. So shall we blame the viruses? No one can definitely tell.

Words

2008-06-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

Meron akong kasamang engineer (not quite sure about his authenticity) na may masamang pananalita. Kapag naririnig ko na binabanggit niya ang salitang Kwan, naiirita ako. Sa loob ng isang minuto, mababanggit niya ito ng 59 beses. Nakakainis dahil ipinampapalit niya ang Kwan sa salitang hindi niya masabi. Ibig sabihin, hindi niya talaga masabi ang gusto niyang sabihin nang malinaw. Maliban ditto, masama pa ang accent niya dahil pabalang ito. Yung tipong boss na nagmamay ari ng pagkatao mo..Sa aking palagay, hindi magandang salita ito dahil nangangahulugan ito ng pagiging vague. Hindi mo masabi ang nais mong sabihin dahil kwan.Yung kwan eh kwan. Kapag kwan ito, siguradong kwan na. Ewan. Nakakairita talaga.

“Be careful of the words that you use, they speak for yourself.”

The Great Escape

2008-06-05T23:15:00.000-07:00

I thought that Graduation was the terminal of all the hardships and sleepless nights but then, the real world was even worst. When you're in school, you can drop your subject if you can't take it but in reality if you do the same, you'll lose your job and be unemployed if you fail to make an important submission especially if it comes with a real big deal. There's no turning back now because everything lies in front of me and there's no choice but to take it or take it. Everybody moves and grasp every moment. If you stop, you see every regret in the end. Every minute counts. Now i know how it feel when you're in school and you want to work and when you're working, you wanted to quit but quitting wasn't an option anymore.

Fish Out of Water

2008-06-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

I'm missing home.I'm living my life independently as it seems and its really surprising how things come this way subsequently. It's just like yesterday when i woke up with a family to see in the morning. I wish i could go back home soon. And i wish that my home would be back like it was before..Soon.

Kill The Crab

2008-06-02T22:46:00.000-07:00

I’ve been employed in a small company for almost one month. So far, I’ve been doing a lot of observations since I’m a newcomer and new to the real world. This is my first job and I don’t know when will it last. Honestly, there’s a lot of pressure I’ve encountered from the working environment, the people in the company and the nature of my work. Since I’m a rookie, I’ve been dominated with people who think they are in the position to dominate. Probably because of their age or maybe, their position. Or maybe they see me as a threat for their employment. Since I’m young, aggressive and hardworking and computer literate. Every little step I make, there will be an eye to see if there’s a room for mistake. Perhaps this is the environment of a company especially for a Filipino company. Maybe I’m too young to be defeated but I’m overwhelmed that they see me as a threat, cause it challenges me to improve what I have. In the end, only the best shall prevail.

plans and perspective

2008-05-25T02:18:00.000-07:00

Promdi in the City

2008-05-05T04:49:00.000-07:00

Ang ilan sa mga insidente na kadalasang mangyari sa isang probinsiyano na bagong salta sa maynila ay ang mga sumusunod:

1. Madalas na lumampas ng target na LRT/MRT station dahil mahirap bumababa minsan kapag siksikan at ayaw magparaan ng mga taong malapit sa pinto. Kasabay pa nito ang pagpasok ng mga tao sa loob ng tren.

2. Madalas na pabalik ang takbo ng sinasakyang LRT/MRT dahil nagkamali ka ng ruta at huli nab ago mo ito malaman.

3. Ang mga jeep dito sa Pilipinas ay may plaka na may nakasulat sa harap ng jeep kung saan ang ruta nito at kadalasan ang pangalan ng lugar ay ang karaniwang tawag ng mga taga-roon. Kung hindi mo alam ang local term, mahihirapan ka talaga.

4. May mga ilang lugar na sa unang punta mo ay pagsisisihan mo kung bakit mo nilakad ang ganong kahabang kalsada eh pwede naman na sumakay ng jeep. Halimbawa: Kahabaan ng Morayta.

5. Mahirap bumaba ng jeep kapag wala pa sa tamang babaan. Katulad ng sa Makati kung saan meron talagang takdang lugar ng babaan at sakayan. Kaya mahirap talaga kapag puputok na ang pantog mo at malayo ka pa sa babaan at trapik pa. Tiyak na magkakalat ka sa daan.

The Places You Have Come to Fear the Most

2008-05-03T02:19:00.000-07:00

I know that I have already discussed this before but forgive for I will say it over and over again. More houses as you can see. It was a remarkable experience to visit San Miguel, Bulacan not necessarily the ancestral houses alone but the historical content of the town. We’ve got the chance to talk to the people who had become a part of our history. Some of the facts where really interesting some are really astonishing. But nevertheless, the pictures shall do the talking.

Don Felix de Leon who was the original owner of this house was a close friend of Dr. Jose Rizal. Two of his children Cecilio and Jose held government positions. Jose serving as assistant executive secretary in Malacañang Palace during the administration of President Manuel Roxas. Don Felix was the father of the lawyer Jose Cabochan- one time congressman of the third district of Bulacan.

Kapitan Pepe House- owned by Jose De Leon Sr.-One time Gobernadorcillo during the Spanish occupation. Among his children by his first wife was Luis who was general manager of the Manila Hotel and the Jai-Alai during the President Roxas administration. Widowed by his first wife, he was married again to Narcisa Buencamino (was also called Mrs. Mangalandan which is the Filipino translation for Buencamino. Magaling na Daan) of the film company LVF Pictures.

The house of Maximo Viola- was also a friend of Dr. Jose Rizal who helped him publish his famous novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.

Other interesting houses to see.

Don Catalino Sevilla Mansion-A three storey house set in Art Deco style with spacious ballroom hall.

Miguel Siojo house-famous because of its white color and Victorian Style built in 1900’s

Clarita Santiago House

La Sampaguita house built in 1903

Nagbibihis na Ang Nayon

2008-05-02T00:31:00.000-07:00

In the fields where we usually play....

A curse or a gift? The continuous development in the suburbs seen on conversion of agricultural lands to residential subdivisions is quite alarming. In the conventional Filipino context of housing, I believe that the perspective of a settlement comes with a house built on the ground and since the available lots are the ricefields, commercialism tend to dig the fields for human settlement. On the otherhand, Filipinos who are predominantly rice eaters will take the aftereffect of this haphazard development eventually. The cause perhaps is rice shortage. The cultivation of land for agricultural purposes should not be taken for granted especially for the Filipino people. It should compensate the amount of food supply needed by the inhabitants in order to maintain a balance between the people and land.

House of the Elite

2008-05-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

The Tecson-Mendiola House was originally owned by Kapitan Simon Tecson who was a Philippine Revolution leader in the town of San Miguel. After the cessation of the Spanish-Filipino fighting in the Biak-na-bato Mountain, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo lived for sometime in this house. Original furniture is still good as new. The present owners of the house have preserved it very well.

Among the houses that I have visited in San Miguel, Bulacan, I think this was the most outstanding in terms of details and architectural features and I really find hard time to come inside the house because most of the houses were forbidden for some reasons.

Perhaps the original owners still lives in the house. I don’t have an idea.

Better Days

2008-04-30T01:53:00.000-07:00

Today seems to be one of the greatest days as i grow again for another year. Technically yesterday was my birthday but since the internet time says so that today is the 29th of april,what could i do? Seriously, it wasn't a big day for me. Just like an ordinary day, i live with nothing but problems. I'm not really concerned about the celebration i must have. My Best bud told me "when you're growing old, you don't really have to celebrate coz only the kids needed parties." Maybe he's right. I started this new blog as a personal gift for myself on my birthday. Perhaps this could be a proof that i could still afford something precious.

Perfectly Imperfect

2008-04-28T19:55:00.001-07:00

Another year has just passed and still it is an irony to think where I’m at in life. For more than two scores of walking to seek the meaning of this anonymous journey, it was fun looking at the old pictures that reminds me of what I’m made of. At this point, I’m filled with anxiety to come and think about the future has to offer. “Am I taking my time effectively? Have I taken chances for once? Is there any room for another try? I don’t have any idea if I could have concrete plans from day to day or ways to execute them as long as I’m satisfied with the way my life goes and I do not hinder anyone. What I feared most are regrets and unfortunately it is an integral part of life. When you try to perfect life, you’ll forget to appreciate life’s simple pleasures nevertheless when you lie low; regrets shall uncover the lessons you must have done in the end and leave you helpless. Perhaps life is unfair. On the other hand, it is still yours to take.