Lucky Me!

Guys, you may not believe it!

I was on my way out at Watson's, after buying some vitamins and medical stuff,  located at SM San Lazaro Branch, Manila when, suddenly, I was blocked by this beautiful saleslady who offered me to buy Rexona products.  She was so inviting so I indulged to buy (sorry I forgot to ask her name).  I didn't know that there were some perks after buying that thing.

Here was the catch.  That saleslady made me stood about 4 steps from the cabinet purposely-prepared for Rexona's promo.  She instructed me to throw a ball at a 9-hole mold and I unintentionally made a shot at the right corner hole.  Then the saleslady shouted, "Oh man, you got the iPod!"  I shouted back "What?"  She handed me the ball I used then asked me to shoot again.  So I tried very hard to put the ball in the hole I shot earlier, but I missed. I got the lowest hole at the right corner instead.  I was told that I got a key chain.  I was waiting for further instructions when the saleslady, after searching at the room near the cashier's place, told me that her manager was not there so I could pick the iPod nano tomorrow (actually it is today).  She made me sign a receipt and asked me to return at 1 p.m.

I believe I am so blessed because God made me  a shot I didn't know what's at stake. Need I say more?

Reminiscing the Past

I have been thinking of my past struggles, especially my deepest frustration due to the death of my first-born child. It happened years ago but the emptiness still lingers within me.

I still remember that I didn't have the financial capacity to pay for my son's hospital bills that ballooned to P375,000.00. I even asked the help of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and the senators. I was so lucky that the former shared a hand.

What a shame! I have been crying most of the time for I couldn't take the body of my child from the hospital (who was frozen) because, again, I couldn't pay. Sorry my baby. Not until I pawned the title of my land (from the province) to the hospital that I got my kid (or else he'll stay there 'til eternity).

Paalam Aking Mahal

Joselito Asi (c) 8 Agosto 2010

 

Akala ko’y tuluyan ka nang nawaglit

Sa isip at puso ko’y ikaw’y tinikis

Lahat ng nangyari’y pilit na inalis

‘Pagkat walang magandang bunga ang maling pag-ibig.

Ngunit ang tadhana’y sadyang mapaglaro

Nakita kang minsang walang kibo

Iiwasan ka sana’t agad akong lalayo.

Ngunit tumimbuwang nadagil ang pinto.

Halakhakan ay di magkamayaw,

Munting pagkakamali ko’y agad sinumbatan

Ngunit nang tingnan ka sa dakong likuran

Kamay mo’y inabot, hiya ko’y naparam

Puso ko’y walang tigil sa pagpintig

Kapag kasama kita’y lagi nang may kilig

Ngunit batid kong mali’t di dapat ipilit

Dahil ikakasal ka na sa kaibigang matalik.

At tayo nga ay nagka’walay

Luha ko kanina’y ngayo’y hikbi naman

Kabiguang dulot tila magpakailanman

Kawangis ng kandila sa init ay nalulusaw.

Agad akong umuwi’t kumuha ng punyal

Isang saksak agad kong iniunday

Sa puso kong bigo sakit ay ninamnam

Buhay kong ito’y akin nang wawakasan

Ngunit bago ako lumisan

Sana'y marinig mo aking hirang

Paalam, paalam

Paalam aking mahal.

IMCS Workshop on Developing Textbooks

Alas, the three-day workshop on Developing Textbook and Teacher's Manuals for Public Secondary Schools was over. The workshop was well attended and our participants were publishers, authors, editors, book designers, and teachers coming from the National Capital Region.  IMCS was able to invite Mr. Antonio Calipjo Go, a long time critic of sick books, who presented his vast array of findings (error-filled books).  Not that I depend Department of Education (which caters to public schools textbooks at this time) but most of Go's findings were on private schools textbooks.  I have been waiting for him to reveal how he was able to get all those findings, what method did he use, etc. because his topic covers research too.  Ah... maybe because of the limited time given to him. 

At one point, a heated argument ensued after topic on tools and minerals were discussed but that was just part of intellectual discussion.  What interest me most was the argument on the word 'observe' wherein one participant stated that, in science, this word is all-encompassing.  Meaning, if you use the word 'observe' it would not only mean to use the sense of sight but the other senses as well. 

BTW, I acted as emcee during the closing ceremony and I was able to make  ad lib(s)

I would like to thank everyone who, in one way or another, helped in making this worthwhile activity a success.

First day at the workshop

Just attended an Orientation Workshop on Developing Textbooks and Teacher's Manuals at Development Academy of the Philippines.  I introduced one of the speakers and I have been busy assisting some of Department of Education's participants.  I was the technical guy this morning and am so proud of it. 

Too many tasks to finish

The works at the office are filing up and everybody is trying to finish their tasks on time.  The themes keep changing from job rotation to sharing loads.  Name it, we have it.

The coming week is challenging too since we will be facing our bete noire as one newspaper had stated in one of its articles.  I am really excited and agitated as well because I don't know what will happen.  I wish everything will be fine.

Finally, Home Again...

Finally,  after 10 days of workshop in Tagaytay City, I'll be back again to where I belong - home.  I will be able to glance my wife and kids whom I missed so dearly.

4th Day @ TICC

I just finished reading the book about Gulliver's Travels written by Jonathan Swift and I felt I was traveling with him too, it was so amazing.  Gulliver must be really a genius due to his knowledge on learning new languages.

I'm just so happy to receive a phone call from my wife who is in Manila.  I'm so delighted to receive an information that Helena Beatrice (my beautiful daughter) was tapped to join the MTAP review.  Yehheeey!

Orientation Workshop @ Hotel Kimberly

Attended a workshop on STRIVE at Hotel Kimberly in Tagaytay City. 

First Day at TICC

I just had a long trip from Manila to Tagaytay City late in the afternoon.  It was a very long trip so I had a very long sleep.  I was so tired because I had to finish some stuff before going to the workshop venue.

At TICC, I was transferred to different rooms and it pissed me off.

As I settled down, I was able to watch the "Secrets of Magic: Revealed" and I was so amazed with the show.  I couldn't sleep so I got my laptop and search for a wifi-signal.

A text from my wife made my day!

Went to SM San Lazaro to Hear a Mass

I went to SM San Lazaro yesterday to hear a mass.  I learned that at 9:00 a..m. during Sunday(s) a mass is held at the entrance of the mall. 

Thank you for your greetings!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who greeted me (verbally and at Facebook) on this very special day.  To my twin brother Emmanuel best wishes to you and may you fulfill all your dreams.  Take care always.

You were asking for my age?  Clue.  I won't be able to apply for any Japanese Scholarships now.  Got it?

Black Out in Manila

Sad day for Manilans yesterday. The entire electric system including the telephone lines were shut off due to devastating typhoon "Basyang."  Would you believe it?  Years before if it was a brown out people could still use their phones to call their immediate relatives, but now,  it's different.  I can't even use my postpaid SUN internet line.  Terrible.  I spent the whole day at SM San Lazaro with my family. 

I went home at 9:45 p.m. and since there was no electric power in the city,  I decided to bring my kids at the Hotel Sogo, Recto Branch for the much needed sleep.

Mishaps Before Office Work

I experienced 2 vehicular mishaps this morning...tsk.tsk.tsk.  It's good no one was hurt.  Thanks God.

Too tired!

Just finished working and cleaning my place of work.  am too tired...zzzzz

Too much work today!

'been busy today.  Just finished tasks on recording and safekeeping some documents transmitted by evaluators.  Transferred some files @ our new stockroom located at Dorm E.  Cleaned the library and corridors with IMCS staff and had a sumptuous lunch courtesy of Sir Eric.  Made some correspondence to valued clientele and called some VIPs.

Onslaught of Memo. Circular No. 1

Have you read the first issuance of memo. no. 1 from the P-noy administration?  It caused deepest sadness to my colleagues here at IMCS.  Most of my co-workers, predominantly contractual employees, were disoriented, perplexed, and dismayed over this new issued memorandum.  Considering that most of the offices/services here at DepEd were manned by contractuals how would the organization effectively and efficiently run. Take for example the case of the monitoring unit of my group whose staff are 70% non-regular employees.  Would they be able to fulfill their assigned tasks since their terms of office would be cut short?  Just asking...

Visited Nephew's Birthday

Since yesterday was a holiday, I (with my wife and kids), visited Rhys birthday at Navotas.  I arrived there in the afternoon but there were no visitors yet so I decided to pick my things which I left when my family transferred to Manila last November.  I spotted my useful books which I used during my training in Japan and some worth-reading manuscript like "Kasparov Teaches Chess" which I kept long time ago when I was very active playing chess (ahedres-ajedrez).  After packing things I found out that there are no visitors yet and my parents-in-law were still not there so I decided to play chess at Malabon Chess Plaza. I scored convincing victories against club opponents but was unlucky on solving chess puzzles.  

I returned to my parents-in-law's house after I received text that all were present.  I enjoyed the food served which were a combination of Italian, European, and native delicacies.  As my kids enjoyed playing with their cousins, so was my wife interestingly shared her views with her parents.  I had a drinking spree with my brothers-in-law as we watched the game between SMB and BMEG for an outright semi-final berth of the PBA league.   SMB proved to be the better team this time. 

We went home at about 10:00 p.m. and immediately went to sleep.  Hugh...

Back to Manila

After a week of seminar at Tagaytay International Conference Center, I am back to Manila.  It's very difficult to stay late nights to look over the works of our evaluators.

The sudden shift of temperature makes it difficult for me to control sneezing. Perhaps, the only consolation is that today and in the next two days I don't have office works because it is a Pasig Day and regular holidays.

'will take my needed rest.

At TICC for the workshop

It's almost a 4-hour trip to Tagaytay International Convention Center (TICC) and I felt very tired.  The three-hour trip was prolonged by the bus staff (San Agustin) who was trying to get all the passengers they could.  I observed the almost all the vendors were allowed to market their products.  Maybe you could imagine how many times I was bumped by passengers while sleeping.  So, instead of having a wonderful trip I had this hate inside me trying to explode anytime.  Upon reaching Olivarez station I was pacified as the two people beside me gave some tips on how to get to TICC. 

Alas! I found the place.  Should I say this?  It was too inviting.  I was assigned at room 143 (is it room for LOVE)  with Sir Eric and Sir Edgar who happens to be my colleagues at DepEd. 

BTW, as I entered the convention center, I found the lightings to be dark and not conducive to reading.  Except for the  ready-made movable lightings the hall would be dull.  To tell you frankly, the airconditioning unit is functioning well and the food was served on time.  The staff are so courteus and helpful as well.

Allergy Galore

Yesterday, I got this alien allergy from unknown source.  Either, I got this from the food I took or from the extreme heat.  I felt very annoyed by this.

Back to Usual Routine

Hi guys!  Since it's school time I am back to my usual routine.   I wake up as early as 5:00 a.m. to open my computer and check some emails (no farmville anymore) and see if all torrents work I did the other day are effectively running.  Also, I browse if there are pending moves I have to make by clicking the chess.com and gameknot.com sites to update my chess knowledge.  At 5:30 a.m., I bring Betty to her school (using my Japanese bike) at P. Gomez ES and buy some morning stuff at a nearby bakery.  After that, I again check my i-connection if it is downloading some self-help books and some programming languages.  Simultaneously, I turn on the  radio and listen to DZBB programs for some updated morning news.  At 6:00 a.m., I take a bath, eat breakfast, and check my things before going to the office.

That's what I wrote in my journal, but the truth is I went back to my apartment after accompanying Betty to her school just to sleep again.  I miscalculate the time (always) that is the reason why I am tardy in going to office.

I'll be better on the coming days...

CFC 29th Year Anniversary

Attended the Couples For Christ (CFC) 29th Year Anniversary at the Luneta Grandstand yesterday.  Though my wife and I are not very active we tried to grace the ocassion to witness the ceremony.  The activity was well attended by members coming from the farthest provinces and even by bunch of followers from different parts of the world.  The scorching heat was felt during the whole afternoon but it has never been a big deal to those in attendance.  At six o'clock in the evening a sudden downpour was experienced but the music ministry, dancers, sponsors, members, and organizers never blinked an eye to go home as they continuously prayed and offered thanks to the Lord.  Congratulations to all CFC members and see you next year!

Saturated

Sometimes I feel that I am saturated with what I am doing here at the office.  The works are too repetitive and are too technical.

Break from Work

I have had a 3-day break.  Slept much of the time and considerably been busy learning new programing language such as Phyton.  During siesta period I played billiards and chess at a nearby street.  

Chess @ ULTRA

After a long lay-off and OTB (over-the-board) playing I had the chance to compete with the best in the Philippine chess. The results were not as good as expected. I was beaten blue by NM Efren Bagamasbad on a Modern Defence game during the opening round . The best chance I could have was during the 4th round. After I scored 2 out of 3, I met NM Alex Milagrosa on a Kings Indian Defence game. I was so happy with that game because I played solidly. Down to 2 minutes against his 3 minutes I was able to achieve a superior position and was a piece up. My inexperience during crucial games played a big part as I lost the game I should have won. I blundered during time scuffle and missed the win so terribly. It was not the same after that  as I fared badly on my next games (probably still thinking of the missed opportunity on Milagrosa's game).  My final output was 4/9 a big disappointment and failure from a university chess player like me.

What I did yesterday

Watched the movie "Robinhood" and learned these mighty words, "Rise and rise until the lamb becomes a lion."

COMEHI Batch '87 Reunion

I'm impressed with the turn-out of our reunion yesterday at Jetstar, Malamig, Oriental Mindoro. 'couldn't believe that after 23 years I would see these groups from Diamond and Gold sections of P. G. Comia Memorial High School. What a feeling indeed!

Seeing old friends and crushes really moved each of us to another level. My salute to my former teachers who joined us on this wonderful occasion. See you guys in 2012!

On my way home

Yipeee! After several months I will again visit my hometown Barcenaga, Oriental Mindoro. My visit wouldn't be just an ordinary one 'coz it will coincide with the reunion of my high school class (batch '87). I don't know what to expect but I am longing to see my old friends and their kids. Oh my... how do my former classmates look like? What are their professions? Are they richer and wiser now? Whoa... I am looking forward to it.

Temporary Separation

Since school days are over, I let my kids stay at the province with my mother and sisters. I know they will be very happy during vacation days and will learn from amazing experiences. It's good thing that we will be able to chat and see them through the internet.

The temporary separation will also benefit us (I and my wife) since, at this time, we don't have someone to take care of them while we are working. Uhmn... it will also be our chance to fix some things left unattended since we transferred here in our new place.

Invisible Man (reading)

I just finished reading the book "The Invisible Man." I can't stop reading...I am craving for more books.

COMELEC Precinct Finder - Philippines

Still looking for your precinct on the upcoming May 10, 2010 election? You can click this link >>> COMELEC Precinct Finder

Missed Opportunities!

I had a chance to travel again but was not permitted by my bosses due to greater tasks.

Sad Week for the Family

Things didn't turn right this week. My son Isaiah Joaquine got very sick and was admitted to a nearby clinic. He chilled and what the good doctor did was to clothe him with ice around his body. My son, for your information, had been hospitalized for two months at Chinese General Hospital (new born) but the good Lord helped us. That's why I am so worried every time he's in the hospital. But friends and well-wishers showered him with prayers and he got better each day.

After my son, it was my wife's turn to be hospitalized. The good thing was we have a Fortune Care to pay for our bill. The cause of her sickness had something to do with her heart. After series of check-up we had to transfer to Chinese General Hospital again for a more rigid medical evaluation. Haay...

Later that day we were allowed to go home for my wife's bed rest.

I promise to be better

Whew... I will be better this time.

God is so good!

Months ago I asked God that if I won't get the scholarship @ Japan he'd give me a promotion at DepEd. I got the latter. Thanks God.

Sooo many things that happened

'been very busy again. here's what happened:

i won P1000 at DepEd Cooperative raffle

my farm plants got withered

too many works at the office

been successful in some of my games

manny pacquiao demolished clottey in boxing

just finished reading a book

I just finished reading this captivating book about Alexander the Great.

pictures speak a thousand words...

Our recent workshop at Boracay is a combination of work and pleasure. I felt relieved and relaxed. Posted here are some pictures for your viewing.

too tired and sleepy

Arrived at Manila from Boracay late in the afternoon and got stalled on a heavy traffic at Moriones. I got asleep and woke up with huge taxi bill. Upon reaching my apartment I immediately search for food and liquid to fill my hungry stomach and to quench my thirst. I almost took 2 containers of H2O... My bed was so hypnotic that the sudden touch of my body on it was like an eternity.

IMCS Workshop @ Bora

Another opportunity to visit Boracay Island within 4 hours...

It's my third time to visit the island and definitely not the last one.

How I wish my family is with me. Haay...

'been busy lately

Spent the nights after work playing billiards to improve my craft but sad to say things have never been better.

Had to stop attending the IELTS review due to this useless desire of improving.

There were times that colleagues at the billiards hall had to challenge me on playing chess to which they never succeeded in beating me.

Had to stay late evenings watching online games of Wesley So at Aeroloft Tournament (one of the hardest tournaments in the world).

Star Paper 10-Ball Billiards Tournament

Maybe you will be surprised that I joined the 2010 10-Ball Billiards Tournament sponsored by Star Paper. Yes, other than chess, playing billiards is one of my hobbies. I am really not an expert on this game but to tell you the truth I can make a shot.

I still remember that during my abrupt training at Okinawa I am the only who could beat the Malaysian friend on the 8-ball game.

My first tournament game here at Star Paper was a mixture of excitement and fear. Excitement in the sense that the opportunity is once and a lifetime, and fear because I really don't know what is at stake for me on this tournament - err... I mean I really don't know whom I will face on the elimination round.

Came the tournament proper, I faced a certain A. Recto from Silang, Cavite. I brought my cue stick and had my silent prayer before the game. Luckily, I was given a plus 1 score (that was the prize I was given for being a novice) by the tournament director. I was just enjoying the game and was taking time to savor the moment.

The games were so thrilling as I led 6-5 on a raise to 7 game. On the 12th rack it was my turn to shoot the 5-ball and it was kinda difficult shot and I was having a hesitation. But I took and shoot it (rather than making a placing) the way I wanted it and I missed until the 5-ball went in front of the left side pocket. I sweated profusely as I visualize the imminent danger of losing since all the next balls were beside all the pockets. He made the shot and all the other shots thereafter to reach the final game. On the final rack, he made a strong break thereby shooting the 7-ball. I prayed a lot and the more I prayed the more shots he made and came the last 3 balls 8, 9, and 10 and I prayed again..."Lord give me this one," but it was not given to me. Maybe my opponent's prayer was more forceful and effective. After the game I learned that it was his fourth-try to join on the same tournament.

Well, guys that was my experience and this time I didn't feel the pain of losing.

Corus Chess 2010

I got addicted to watching online chess games of superb players at Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands. I learned a lot and my knowledge of the game has been substantially improved. Couldn't wait to watch Wesley So's vast opening repertoire against equally talented opponents. I hope that he wins in the Group B Tournament.

By the way, it is very annoying to know that http://coruschess.com is not working well so I had to look at other websites which are not full as to details.

Reunion - PLM MGM

After 5 long years I got a chance to see my former classmates, and friends (whom are all successful) in one of our reunions at Rod and Mar's place. What can I say? I had a very great time!

Unang Kabiguan

Joselito Asi (c) January 2010

‘Di sinasadyang ikaw’y masilayan
Ako ay nabigla’t muni ay napukaw
Natuwa’t nagalak ng ngiti mo’y sumilay
Haay… naku para akong lumulutang.

Agad kang sinundan
Upang sana’y lalo kang mamasdan
Ngunit nanlumo nang makita kang
May kadaupang palad magkahawak kamay.

Dali-daling lumayo upang ‘wag damdamin
Ang kapaitang ayaw ko sanang danasin
Ngunit heto’t bigo kawangis ay inutil
Walang halaga wag namang hamakin.

Kinabukasa’y naglakas loob
Pinuntahan ka’t agad ay naghandog
Pag-ibig na sadya’y nais na idulog
Subalit pait ang hatid mong dulot.

Luha’y di sinasadyang dumaloy
Sa pisngi ko’ y tumatak sumapol
Kabiguang nadama sa puso koy kumirot
Unang pag-ibig sakit lang ang dulot.

Family Bonding at Luneta Park

I have been very busy lately. My schedules were very tight. What special place do I have to go to treat my wife and kids? Luneta Park is a perfect choice!

Waiting

Wanting,
lusting,
to be held,
to be loved,
to feel warmth,
to feel your beating heart.
Wanting to be sheltered from the cold,
heartless winds.
Falling into invisible arms;
into an abyss of love.
Wishing,
hoping,
that my desires will be filled;
my desires of loving warmth.
Wanting to be held,
comforted,
loved.
Dreaming of passionate embraces,
of tender kisses,
loving words,
romantic nights.
Waiting for undying love.

-Dawn D.

Watch!

Watch your thoughts, they become words
Watch your words, they become actions
Watch your actions, they become habits
Watch your habits, they become character
Watch your character, they become your destiny.

- author unknown

Melancholy

I've never seen a night so long
When time goes crawling by
The moon just went behind a cloud
To hide its face and cry

The silence of a falling star
Lights up a purple sky
And as I wonder where you are
I'm so lonesome I could cry

-from the song of Hank Williams