The Long Wait Is Over

Yeheey!

Tomorrow and the next day after will be life-changing days for me.  I still do not know what are at stake.  After completing my Non-Disclosure Agreement with G....e I hope things will be better.  I am anticipating a collaborative, imaginative, and fruitful days ahead.  Sana marami ring ipamigay ng tools and goodies.  I really do not know what to expect.  I wish to have more blessings!

Big Event Cancelled Due to Super Mario's Wrath!

September 19, 2014

Not to be considered a super typhoon caused a wonderful event to be cancelled last September 20-24, 2014.  The venue, kits, facilitators were ready but Super Mario beat them all as it crushed National Capital Regions, specifically, Marikina City where our workshop is to be held.

I immediately got a message from colleagues that the workshop was cancelled.  Being one of the lead persons, I have to call the participants - I took the liberty of sending texts, email, and social networking messages to all the I could reach, however, as I search for my cellphone and browsed the directory, it's all gone!

I have been seeing lots of messages from my SIM card as I transferred it to my daughter's phone but no name appeared and it just added to my dilemma. Little by little, I informed those who texted me and thanks God, they responded positively.

To all our participants from the DepEd regions,  divisions (visual artists and illustrators) see you soon and I hope to finally see you!

Accepted and Happy With It!

Yeheeey!  God is so good.  I just got an email that I am accepted as a Google Teacher and I just got a ticket to attend a two-day collaborative seminar of experts at AIM Conference Training Center.  I'm so blessed!

Waiting for the Result of the 2014 GTA-SEA Result

This would be the day the results of the 2014 GTA-SEA application will be revealed.  The time gets to be closer than I thought and I felt very impatient.  Should I fail to get being shortlisted it would be the 2nd time I will feel the pain and heartache.  First, it was the scholarship in Australia which I didn't get and now this Google Teacher Academy program.  The competition(s) are very strong but I am relying on my proximity to the venue which I think other South East Asean counterparts would be hard to enjoy since the hotel and food accommodations are not free.  A factor that I eye also would be my being in the Department of Education Central Office.

However, as the time gets going the going gets tough.  It is almost 5 PM and I still didn't get an email and I am so worried.  Hopefully, I will be chosen.  God please help me.

2014 Google Teacher Academy Application

Hello guys!

It's been a long while since I last posted here, right?  Well it was because I was too busy with my current task at the office.  It was about the emergency purchase of textbooks for the Typhoon Yolanda hit victims.

Well, today, I will share with you my interest in joining the 2014 Google Teacher Academy application.

Two weeks ago, I accidentally saw a link from one of my friends at Facebook where a big event will be hosted by Google in Manila this year.  I got curious and my enthusiasm incredibly increased as the topic was about teacher - a Google teacher - specifically.  I hastily applied and filled out online information on the link given to me.  There was one challenge though, I have to submit a 1-minute video presentation about a certain topic to qualify.  Since, I was too busy with my current load I just finished the video this morning at 2:30 a.m.  With no special equipment and tools at hand I just dig on my arsenal and edited my work.

Hopefully, I will get a nod from the 2014 GTA judges.

See and enjoy my work guys!

You can also see this video in YouTube by clicking this GTA link.

Whatta Headache!

'been experiencing too much headache after the IELTS examination.  Reading had been my problem since the start of the review.  Hopefully, with Lord's grace, I will pass the test.  To God be the glory!

Birthday Challenges!

Just experienced tremendous challenges during my birthday celebration.  Firstly, a super typhoon devastated some parts of Numancia Residences where I live.  No water, no electriciy, and no food since everything happened so fast.

After the typhoon, my family and I was able to go outside and we went to the Lucky Chinatown Mall in Binondo, Manila.  I immediately got my Shakeys card inside my wallet, of course to get my free birthday pizza, only to be told that they were offline.  I am so upset.

We just went to another store "Karate Kid" after that, we spent the rest of the day at the mall.

Keep safe guys!

So Blessed!

On July 9, 2014 (previously scheduled on July 7), I will start the IELTS review for free (thank you DepEd) with my colleagues in Makati.  Hopefully, I will be able to improve my English and use it effectively.  It will be almost 3 weeks, July 9, to 25, 2014, of long and painstaking struggle.     Guide me Lord and give me your wisdom!

Answered Prayer!

I heard this morning that I passed the 1st Step in the Australia Awards Scholarships for the 2015 January Intake Applicants, meaning, I passed the paper qualification.  I now have to pass the IELTS and the rigorous interviews at the Department of Education Central Office. Lord, please guide me again and give me your wisdom so that I can hurdle all these challenges.  Bless me God!

Hear My Petition Lord

Lord, please intercede in my behalf.  I would like to study abroad as scholarships were offered by Australia. Grant Lord that my superior will nominate me so that I could compete with the best here in the department and the rest of the applicants nationwide.  Bless me God!

God is Good!

I am so blessed today.  After long months of waiting for the rationalization program of the Department of Education I finally got the assurance that I will be retained and will not be able to have a co-terminus item (CTI).  I was interviewed by my Director and by my superior at the Evaluation and Training Division.  Thank you Lord for the advanced gift on my birthday.

Bonding Time with my Family @ Lucky Chinatown Mall

What a nice feeling to share moments with my family at the Lucky Chinatown Mall, Binondo, Manila, Philippines.

Death Found Me

(c) Joselito Asi

Your words had me stalled
I faded
Time stopped
I felt I was trapped.

I got lost and I felt empty
Alone and full of misery.

I'm wasted
'but kept on walking...
and walking still...
until death found me.

Para kay Gigi Reyes

Para kay "Gigi Reyes":

Siguro naman sa pag-uwi mo ay may mabuti kang maitutulong sa ating bansa. Aping api na ang bansang Pilipinas alam mo iyan. Ituwid mo na ang sa tingin naming mga ordinaryong mamayan ay patuloy na pagyurak sa kaban ng bayan. Nakapagtataka naman kung bakit kaapelyido mo pa ang isang heneral na katulad mo'y nadamay rin sa akusasyon sa paglustay ng yaman ng Pilipinas. Subalit marahil ay iba ka sa kanya dahil buhay ka at may pagkakataon ka pang ipaalam sa bayan ang iyong nalalaman sa tandisang paglustay ng ating yaman. Ibangon mo ang iyong pangalan at ang karangalan. Nawa'y mabigyan mo nang linaw ang dumidilim na katotohanan. Sana ang lahat nang ikikilos mo ay para sa bayan!

#20PHNET Forum Program ISOC-PH

Just attended the #20PHNET Forum Program for ISOC-PH at Asian Institute of Management, Makati, Philippines.  Can you believe it?  The Philippines is now celebrating the 20th-year of internet use. I'm so glad I was able to celebrate this milestone with the IT experts and techies.  Congratulations Philippines.

Focus of Education

We have had an intellectual discussion this morning during our usual Monday morning activities at our office. My director pointed out that the foci of education on the 20th century are the "resources of the learners (i.e. textbook, classrooms, and teachers)" and on the 21st century the focus of education is "what the learners are learning (i.e., assessment, etc.)."

Dingdong Dantes and I

What a sudden turn of events!  I was walking near the Bulwagan ng Karunungan Hall after the Ash Wednesday Mass at the Department of Education, Central Office when I overheard that the GMA actor Dingdong Dantes would be visiting in the afternoon.  I felt extremely happy about it since he was my daughter's favorite actor.  I thought that a photo-opportunity with Dingdong would be a surprised gift to Betty since I would present her the Dingdong and I would-be photo.

However, bulk of work loads at the office caused me to forget everything that I planned, until at about 7:00 p.m., I was reminded by my colleagues that the actor was still there at the BK Hall.  I immediately went down with one of my friends and  took our chance to meet Dingdong.  Luckily, he was still there.  The actor was so kind to give me this pose.

Dingdong and I

Accidents happen in the most unexpected moments!

March 4, 2014

Yesterday, I was bumped by a slow-moving white vehicle's right side mirror at San Antonio Village, Pasig City between 6:30-7:00 p.m. but I did not react right away since I did not feel any pain. Now, the tingling sting on my shoulder is so annoying.

March 5, 2014

This morning, while I accompany my wife to Quiapo (Avancena HS) for the NAT examination, I heard a sudden sound on my backpack's zipper I took a peek and it was indeed opened. A guy appeared from my left side and I immediately threw an elbow (the one I was bumped yesterday, remember?) on him but it didn't catch his face. At an instant, I stepped on his slipper so that he couldn't move away - but he was able to escape. I was trying to measure this guy if I could beat him in a fistfight, which I felt I could, I moved towards him and as I was about to take a desperation punch two individuals appeared from nowhere. This caused me to change my mind and instead protected my wife by just leaving the place. I'm glad it was over. My wife told me not to return to that place again!

Luneta Chess Blitz Tournament 2014

Tied for  1st to 3rd places at the just concluded Luneta Chess Blitz Tournament with a score of 4 out of 5 points. Carrying 4/4 points in the penultimate round but got ambushed in the final round by "Kuting" in a very exciting game. Tie-break was not so helpful as I ended with 15 Buchholz against my opponents 17 and 11.5 respectively.

My First Five Days in Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa Diaries: My First Five Days as a JICA Scholar

“From missed chances to magic moments—this was the start of my Japan story.”

Did I ever tell you that I was granted an international training scholarship by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) from 2007 to 2008?

Yes, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — the training course was called “Application of Multimedia Technology for e-Education.” And let me tell you, my first five days in Okinawa, Japan were nothing short of unforgettable.

Day 1: From Narita to Naha – A Gentle Landing into the Unknown

The moment my feet touched Japanese soil at Narita Airport, I felt the weight of wonder and responsibility settling in. After the immigration formalities and retrieving my luggage, I was warmly greeted by a lady JICA officer who handed me a limousine bus ticket, along with precise instructions — the kind only the Japanese can give — to proceed to Haneda Airport. She even walked me to the bus stop. Imagine that!

From Haneda, I boarded another flight, this time to Naha Airport in Okinawa — the final stretch. There, another JICA staff welcomed me with a smile that felt like sunshine. She brought me to the Okinawa International Center (OIC), my new home for the weeks to come.

At OIC, I was handed my room key and meal card. The staff kindly explained how to use the facilities, and before I could even feel the sting of homesickness, two fellow Filipinos — Erik and Cris — came to the rescue. They told me hilarious and heartwarming stories of their first week. Instantly, I didn’t feel so alone.

I ended my first day in Room 235, curled under the blanket while the cold air outside whispered something new had begun. I called my wife and daughter back home with a newly bought phone card. My voice may have trembled from the chill, but my heart was full.

Day 2: Faces, Flags, and the Feeling of the United Nations

By 7:00 a.m., I was up and ready for breakfast at Tsukudo, the OIC dining hall. The moment I walked in, it felt like a U.N. convention was happening — participants from around the world sharing one meal, one roof, and one mission.

Cris-san showed me how to use the meal card like a pro. Later that day, I met with my course coordinator from MTEC who gave a thorough orientation — covering house rules, expectations, etiquette, and the whole nine yards.

I also met my classmates for the training course and other participants from different programs. It was electric — people from all walks of life, cultures, and professions, all gathered to learn and grow.

Day 3: When the Alarm Clock Fails and Redemption Speaks Japanese

This one hurt — I overslept. Yes, me! On the day of our big meeting with sponsors and Japanese company representatives. I rushed down only to see my colleagues receiving calling cards and handshakes. I felt invisible. Honestly? I was crushed.

I kept replaying my mistake in my head until my name was called to give a self-introduction. That was my moment to recover. I stood tall, pushed away the embarrassment, and delivered my prepared speech — in Japanese. That small win brought back my confidence. Redemption, served with grammar and guts.

Day 4: The Mayor, the City Keys, and the Aquarium Raffle

We visited Urasoe City and were formally introduced to the mayor. As a symbolic gesture of welcome, we were even given “keys to the city” and issued non-resident alien cards — our passport to blending in and becoming part of the Okinawan fabric, even if just temporarily.

That afternoon, JICA staff announced a raffle — a chance to visit the world-renowned Churaumi Aquarium. Out of over 80 participants, only 53 would be randomly selected. The odds were tight... but my desire was immense. I had heard only magical things about that place — “It’s like walking underwater without drowning,” one friend said.

I crossed my fingers. My heart hoped.

Day 5: Close to Defeat, Closer to a Miracle

I wasn’t chosen.

My name was not called in the raffle. Disappointed but not defeated, I remembered a simple truth: not all winners are drawn — some show up early. So, the next morning, I woke up before sunrise and rushed to the registration area, hoping someone would back out. To my surprise, five others had the same idea and were already lined up ahead of me.

Still, I waited. Two participants called in to cancel. Then three more. I lost count.

And then… I was alone in the line. Just me and the pulse of hope. My heart pounded — I could almost hear it echoing through the hallway.

Then the coordinator signaled the driver to start the engine.

Crushed.

I turned around, ready to leave with a sigh and a slouch… when I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder
.
“Come on, join us, young man!”

It was one of the kind-hearted bus staff — they made room for me in a two-seater bench. I got in.

That bus ride to Churaumi Aquarium? It wasn’t just transportation. It was a miracle bus. A lesson on persistence. And proof that sometimes, if you just stay in line, the universe finds a way.

And the rest?

The rest was history — sea creatures the size of dreams, colors you thought only existed in stories, and the overwhelming sense that I was exactly where I needed to be.

Reflection:

In those first five days, I learned more than tech and training. I learned about timing. Humility. Community. And hope that refuses to give up — even when your name isn’t called.

Japan didn’t just welcome me — it taught me to wait with grace, act with courage, and believe in lucky second chances.

Happy Holidays to All!

The year has been tough and  the challenges have been mounting up but life has to go on.  I'm glad I was able to settle my debts before the year ends.

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The untimely death of a friend stirred my already crazy life.  Why him? not Napoles or JPE or GMA?  Those who were indebted to the Philippine coffers.  Those who caused pain to the Philippine economy.

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I can feel that my health has been deteriorating.  The medicines that I take continuously eat my muscles (lol). I changed all my doctors from Fortune Care Manila to Fortune Care Pasig.  Hopefully, my health will be better next year and the years thereafter.

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I realized that the more bad things you wish  for other people the more evil things would happen to you. I knew all along that typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) would hit the central part of the Philippines but I prayed that this typhoon would finally change its course and hit China instead (since this country had been bullying the Phillippines ever since).   Looked at what happened to my beloved country.  Sorry folks.

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I was not able to play chess competitively on the second half of the year.  Though, I was the Champion at the DepEd Central Office Tournament.

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Taking too much luck at the Casino Filipino raffle.  Bad decision.  Though, I've won twice it took much of my time instead of taking care of my wife and kids.  Bad me.

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Will the Victory Mine Tonight?

It will be my last chance today to win in a raffle draw at Casino Filipino (CF).  I have 2 dozens of gold tickets and a baker's dozen of silver tickets.  My wife and I will be going to Pavilion to try our luck.  I've won twice (90K and 30K) and hopefully I will win again.  CF has lots to offer including 10 3 Millions lucky patrons, and various laptops and professional cameras.  I can't wait to be there at the venue.  May the force be with me!

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Note:  

Not been as lucky as before.  Too many prizes but was not able to win any of them.  Maybe next time.

Almost Paid in Full

Alas, after several months of dry cash I was able to settle my accounts payable.  Few more days and I will be able to pay everything.  God is so good.

Funds diluted

Again, bills keep coming up.  Its above my neck.  'Hope I can pay everything before the year ends.

Not all good for Manny Pacquiao after all

Just after Manny Pacquiao annihilated Brandon Rios on their much anticipated fight in Macau another controversy popped-out from the media of his non-payment of back taxes from his previous fights in the U.S.  Unable to enjoy first the fruit of his labor, series of problems unfold after the BIR chief introduced serious findings that caused the boxing hero various problems.

I hate the timing of this direct but malicious accusation to Pacquiao as an attempt to destroy his name.  Why single-out a guy who, for so many times, brought honor to this country?  Why not pin down Napoles, or other senators and congressmen accused of tarnishing the images of various organizations?

This country is sick.

--------
Points to ponder:
1)  Why did it take more than two years for Pacquiao to submit a certification from the IRS that he paid taxes in the U.S. from 2007-2008?
2) Ms. Henares (BIR chief) said not all of Pacquiao's account have been garnished, Pacquiao's side proved otherwise.
3) It was Pacquaio's camp who revealed to media of the scenario of his tax's case not the BIR.  Out of respect to MP, BIR could have filed tax evasion case long time ago because he is a boxing hero.
4) Why for instance, BIR, cherry-pick Pacquiao and garnished his accounts while Lucio Tan who had long-standing battle on and off the court had not experienced the same.

It's your call folks.

Luck Strikes Twice!

As luck would have it, I again, won in the raffle at CF Ronquillo.  I only have 22 tickets which I got accidentally.  Before the draw, I saw people having hundreds of tickets - I thought that my chances of winning would be very slim.  However, God is so good that he allowed me to snare another victory.  Though, the amount I won was not so big I felt it was so special to win for the second time in a row.  Thank you my friend up there!

Lucky Again!

Whew!  I was so down last Tuesday (October 8, 2013),  I only have Php170 inside my wallet and I am bound to go home.  After reaching the LRT Avenida Station,   I remembered that I have raffle tickets from the Casino Filipino, Ronquillo Branch so I decided to stay for while. At exactly 7:45 p.m. I went to the 3rd Floor of the Ronquillo Arcade where the raffle was being held.   

I have been praying all along.  At 8:00 p.m. the first name was called, a senior citizen went to the stage and wheeled-in a roulette, he won a Php10,000 worth of pre-bet coupons.  I knew all along that only 3 lucky patrons will be called so I continued to hum my request, "Please Lord, please... call my name..."  and the second name was uttered.  My name was called!

I again prayed that I get Php100,000 worth of pre-bet coupons I adjusted the arrow and pointed it to ten times (10 x Php10,000) wishing that I could get the highest prize.  Unfortunately, God did not grant my request.  I only got Php90,000!  Yeheey!  Thank you Lord.

A new dilemma arose, I am not good at gambling and I might lose all the 9 pre-bet coupons without winning any of them.  Luckily, a man offered me to buy all my coupons at 40% cost.  I was now caught between GOOD and BETTER (lol).  I called my wife for a decision and suggestion but she came in late.  I have sold all 8 coupons for Php32,000 and retain only 1 so that I could play  thinking that I would win it at a cost.  Sadly, I lost that bet after I played it.  I told you, I am not good at gambling.  My wife told me that I should have sold it all.   What a missed opportunity.

Anyway, I went home Php32000 richer and was able to immediately pay my bills.  I would like to thank Casino Filipino for the opportunity and of course my friend up there for making impossible thing POSSIBLE!

Interview Questions Answered

I saw the following questions from Natalia Pogonina's site same questions I will answer as a chess player myself.

What was the earliest memory of playing chess?
I was a late bloomer.  I played chess at the age of 13.  At first everything was just for fun, but later got captivated by its beauty.  I ate, dreamed, worked, and played chess during my college days for the University of the East chess team.

What is your most memorable game?
It was a game I played at chess.com.  I am playing with a higher-rated opponent but outclassed him in such an artistic matter. Press this link about the game.

What was your worst defeat?
I was on the peak of my chess career and has had performed superbly in different chess tournaments here in Manila but had to stop full-time as I was beaten by this kid at the Divisoria Chess Tournament.  I was chess-struck for I just won a tournament at the same venue a month ago.  The defeat was a tough pill to swallow since I was trailing the leader of the pack by just a full point and currently on the 3rd to 5th place just below my San Beda and University of the East colleagues.  I was happy with my position and I felt that my friends were looking at me in admiration.  I show-boated during the game for my opponent has only few minutes on his time control.  I played with fire and got burned with it.  I lost a winning game.  I was not the same after that.

Which living player do you most admire?I
Magnus Carlsen.  He doesn't stop playing in an equal position.  He squeeze for more and more until everything turns into a battle!

Who is your favorite singer/composer?
Michael V.

Which book would you take to a desert island?
I Will Persist Until I Succeed by Og Mandino

If you could edit your past, what would you change?
The chapter in my life wherein I got madly in love with a girl who dumped me.  I alter that part.  I wish I did not meet her.  I am so devastated.
 

What makes you happy?
Existence

What was your biggest disappointment?
When I lost my first-born child.  So creepy.  I felt I was a tiny form surrounded by the head and foot of a parenthesis.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
There is no second chance.
 

Financial Mishap

I been experiencing financial mishap this month. My investments aren't working fine. I wish things would be better in the coming days!

Wish ko lang na mali ako!

Sa aking palagay may magpapakamatay na namang General, kasi sobrang nakakahiya iyong pagkakasangkot nya sa pork barrel scam. He will be a disgrace to the academy kapag hindi niya nalusutan ang kasong ito. Wish ko lang na mali ako!

Message for the 10,000th Okinawa International Center Participant

As a former JICA Scholar at Okinawa, Japan , I was given a task to make a special message for the 10,000th participant at the Okinawa International Center - a milestone that happened after 28 years.  Here it is:

Message:

To the 10,000th participant:

Like you, I was once a participant at the Okinawa International Center (OIC) from 2007 to 2008.  I had amazing experiences – I was able to work with talented Japanese teachers and employees, I met interesting classmates and friends from various countries, I learned varied cultures, and I reached places I never dreamed of visiting.  I thought everything was a dream!

Allow me to share with you what happened to me after my training at OIC sponsored by MTEC and JICA – I immediately got a morale-boosting promotion from Creative Arts Specialist I to my current position.  Not only that, I was able to share the learning I gained during the workshops in Okinawa International Center to my colleagues here in the Philippines.  I became a better person and a worthy individual.

You are blessed!  Not only that you reach a major milestone of becoming the 10,000th participant of the OIC you also had responsibility to be at your best during the training period for you are being watched and being envied by all. 

May you be able to surmount all the challenges that may come your way and may you be able to share your new-found knowledge to your countrymen after the duration of your training.

Again, congratulations and best wishes!

Philippines my Philippines

Just when I heard that some of our lawmakers have denied their direct association with Janet Lim-Napoles (the pork barrel queen) I came across with this blog complete with a picture and intricate historical details of PDAF transactions. The Filipino people deserve to know the truth. Read it to believe it. You have been warned!
http://dulzspeaks.blogspot.com/2013/08/anonymous-speaks-pork-barrel-scam.html

New at heART

I joined the Arts Club at the DepEd Central Office Culture and Arts Section. As a beginner, I really don't know what to do. I just let my hands do the talking. Here it is ladies and gentlemen - my masterpiece(s). Thank you COCOLIFE for the chance to be part of one of your programs.

What a Life!

I had a face-to-face confrontation with a street criminal yesterday at Carriedo St., Manila as I witnessed how he opened the zipper of my backpack. I turned around and saw a young adult with a pointed object on his right hand. I hastily prepared myself to give him an elbow right to his jaw and grab his hand until I employ a rare naked choke just as I always see in the UFC. But before I could do that another man appeared from nowhere and bumped me purposely causing me to stumble. That fall allowed me to return to reality that the man I was pursuing was not alone as he walked side by side with the man who bumped me to the dark side of the street. What a life!

What a Finale - Chess Candidates Tournament, London 2013

Wow.  What a finale.  Chucky forgive me for doubting you regarding your  mellow fights against players with Russian descent but putting it difficult against non-Russians.  Kasparov was correct afterall in asserting that Ivanchuk is one of the best chess players in the world.  In this tournament, had not for the endemic time control-problems Chucky had been into he could be a worthy champion.  Just imagine beating numbers 1 and 2 players in the world.  He is making a point.  Salute to the organizers and sponsors of prestigious tournament.  The topsy-turvy results every day make it more exciting.

Amazing Virtual Zoo Experience

What an amazing experience at Tutuaban Mall, Divisoria, Manila, Philippines.  My wife and kids have been very happy to see these kinds of virtual zoo canvas.  Allow me to share with you this wonderful chance of being there.


I hope you guys will visit this place in the Philippines. See you!

Pissed off at a cable company

Got disappointed with a cable company's failure to install.

1) Why didn't they just tell they can't install on the schedule d time.
2) Overpromises but underdelivered
3) Full of air (puro hangin)

I couldn't believe that such a prestigious company would be treating a public servant like me and that would waste much of our (family's) precious time.  If you couldn't do the installation just say "NO."  Please don't give false hopes.

2013 I Wish I Will Win!

Well, as we all know 2012 was now a history and to sum up my experiences on the past year allow me to cluster what happened to my year-long struggle.

Financially, it was not as productive as I want it to be.  My investments have not been wise so to speak.

Professionally, there were highlights in my career like that of my one-week travel to Singapore wherein I inspected supplementary materials prior to its delivery to SPHERE-funded provinces in the Philippines.  There were also various travels to different schools nationwide that have been effective.  However, I was not able to continue my Toastmaster's club attendance due to conflict of schedule at the office.  That was one of my regrets.

Spiritually, it was not as abundant as my family expected. I failed to attend in the CFC-SOLD meeting due to my travels to various parts of the country.

In sports, despite my continuous practice of chess online, I have not been lucky to have a place in a tournament I joined at.  I was miserably at the middle of the group wherein I should have been better due to my experience and arguably high rating.  The only consolation I've got was when I passed the FIDE Arbiter's examination after the Department of Education sponsored me through Philippine Sports Commission.  I only need two norms to be officially called FIDE Arbiter.

Like in the past, I have been addicted to raffle(s) at the Casino Filipino for a chance to be multi-millionaire.  But my name was never been called...not even once.

As usual, the members of family were the best thing I've got and I am so thankful to them as they helped me weathered the storms in my life..

With a new year coming in -- 2013 I wish I will win!