It Can Only Get Better

Jailbreak for A5 Powered Devices on iOS 5.0.1

2012-01-21T10:25:00.002+08:00

For those who rely on Jailbreak for ultimate productivity from their iOS device, hit on the links below for tutorials on jailbreaking iPad 2 and iPhone 4S on iOS 5.0.1.

iClarified
Greenpois0n

If you own other older devices, just search at iClarified or Dev-Blog for more info on jailbreaking, issues encountered and fixes. I am an advocate of jailbreaking, primarily because it allows you to tweak and enhance your iOS devices and unlock its full potential. I would even think that the jailbreak communities allow Apple to build on their iOS iterations as the community provides performance tweaks and features enhancements that Apple would later on adopt to their OS upgrades, i.e. multitasking, wifi sync, airprint, notification enhancements, etc. Even before Apple had their copy+cut+paste commands, jailbroken iPhones are already enjoying this.

Lastly, most of the jailbreak tweaks are free on the Cydia app. Hit on these links to see the top Cydia apps for your iPhones, iPads and iPod Touches.

Link 1
Link 2
Link 3

Enjoy!

Ho Chi Minh January 2012

2012-01-15T15:59:00.003+08:00

It was a great way to start the year with the gurls + 1 going to Ho Chi Minh City!!! The booking was made last October 8, 2011 and the trip was from Janaury 10 - 13 for Ivy and Joan and from January 11 - 14 for me, Elo and Sorvi. As for the differences in the dates, well, this is due to the fact that HCMC trip was not part of the itinerary for the year.

Day 1 was marked with walking from the hotel to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and lunch over at Arnold’s. The first half of the day gave us a crazy taste literally and figuratively. War Remnants musuem told us of how the Vietnam war was waged by the Americans and the scary results of the war - from the tiger cages, environmental devastation, and Agent Orange, not to mention the tremendous loss of lives and properties. Literally, our lunch that day did not satisfy the Asian cravings that I was looking for. But it was special nonetheless. That surprising condiment for the salad was a revelation indeed. Luckily, the street vendor of desserts did not disappoint with that halu-halo Vietnamese version.

The afternoon gave us more breathtaking sites of the city - Reunification Palace, Dong Khoi street, Opera House, People’s Committee and the chaotic but beautiful motorcycle traffic.

The Reunification Palace showed me that opposites can still be reunited with the vision of securing the most good beneficial to all. I like the idea of how one man can reunite the entirety and served as an inspiration in allowing me to collect all my scattered pieces (chot!).

Vietnam prides itself of having one of the best coffees in the world, so we went to Trung Nguyen coffee place and had the Legendee coffee. It featured a slow drip type with condensed milk as a creamer and sweetener in one. The coffee is a bit on the strong bitter side with back note of dark chocolate.

We went to Ben Thanh market afterwards to secure good buy/find but ended up buying some coffee and loose tea leaves and flowers. It was pretty expensive! We were looking for that great patis but we succumbed to fatigue due to lack of sleep from last night.

We initially planned to eat dinner at Huong Lai but the place was already full when we arrived so we went to Crazy Buffalo in Pham Ngu Lao area and had my first authentic Vietnamese spring roll and pho! What heaven on earth moment it was! I truly loved both of them and was a real treat! Then I treated myself to a bottle of Saigon Lager, which I was not able to finish. It was ok but I am quite strict nowadays with less to zero alcohol content.

Afterwards we went around to find some more things to buy but ended up going home since Ivy and Joan had to leave by 1AM. We were supposed to party the night but we were so tired and sleepy so we decided to call it a night.

January 13, since we need to checkout by 12NN, we went directly to Ben Thanh market and to Taka Plaza. Our thought is that we need to be as fresh as possible before our departure so we went to the palengke for maximum sweat, sun and odor effect Before we went back to the hotel for our checkout and bath, we had our taste of Highlands Coffee behind the Opera House, which for me is far better than the Trung Nguyen coffee.

Lunch was consumed at the Huong Lai restaurant. It was featured in Lonely Planet. The food was great but I think i have high expectations, since its close proximity to China and Thailand would have made their food somehow more exciting that what I have tasted.

We went to the supermarket at the Vincom Center to buy that fish sauce and to buy some more food items for pasalubong. We found out that it is cheaper to buy these items in the supermarket rather than in their standalone boutiques or at the Ben Thanh market by than VND50,000!!!

I have this feeling that maybe we were cheated by the tinderas.

After our supermarket tour we went back to Taka Plaza for good finds. I was only able to buy a scarf for my Mom and Elo was able to buy a scarf and a blouse.

For our last coffee tour, we went to this Bitter Sweet Cafe in order to check its iced milk coffee. For me, this should be the most suited for Filipino taste of mildly bitter but sweet and creamy milky.

We had dinner at a local carinderia and had our authentic pho. It was spicy and nice! The pho at Crazy Buffalo was what I expected it to be, similar to what is served in Pho 24 and Phobac. This carinderia pho takes the most authentic, ultimately surprising and expect the unexpected award for pho! I truly loved it. It’s nice to have no expectations at all and be blown away by the sheer authenticity and flavor complexity!

We wanted to have Banh Mi, the street food sandwich inspired by the French baguette. But we had to return to the hotel to pack some more of the stuff we bought that afternoon.

We went back to the Benh Thanh night market where we saw a lot of vendors who know how to utter Tagalog praises like mura dito, para sa kasintahan. I bought two ladies shirts with embroidered prints for my mom and my tita and a sugarcane juice, which tasted more like a citrus orange juice with sugar cane as sweetener. We did this while I was munching on my banh mi.

Generally, we did not have any thing that we want to buy there at Vietnam, nor did we see anything unique or original that can only be bought there except for food and coffee. I ended up having about VND1M.

HCMC is a good place to visit. One thing I learned is the fact that we need to be reminded of our history through the arts, architectures, and museums. These allow us to understand who we are, what we stand for, what we have learned from the past and how we can move forward.

Language barrier is never an issue. Even though Vietnamese are not English speakers, the many tourists, caucasians mostly, is a testament that part of the fun is this barrier and that it makes the travel more unique and worthwhile.

Asked if I will go back, maybe after ten years. But I would love to see Hanoi, Halong and Da Nang!

Travel Rating: 6.5 out of 10

PS. Some tips I can share from this trip

Find a better travel time. Whilst budget airlines (read: Cebu Pacific) provide great airfare deals, the caveat is that you need to add a day or two in order for you to not feel the fatigue with lack of sleep from the travelling part and if you are masa (masandal lang tulog na) type. The money that you saved from the airfare may be spent on additional hotel night or taxi fares (read: tamad to take the public transpo or walk around).
Take time to understand their cultures by visiting museums and appreciating the structures and the arts. It will also be nice to read about your destination prior to your visit - history, culture, weather forecast, government setup, etc.
Haggle with prices. And if the vendor does not give you what you want, go on and find another stall selling the same items. Also, it is wiser to shop in the morning for that buena mano factor. Try to also check the big supermarkets for similar items as they may charge cheaper and with a more comfortable shopping experience. Otherwise, forget about the item, if you really do not need them. Only those items that are unique to these places deserve non-negotiable pricing schemes. For everything else, there's Mastercard (chot!).
Eat when you are only hungry. Eating everything at the same time decreases the probability of appreciation. Remember, hunger is the best vetsin (chot!).
Always plan ahead. Self explanatory na ito. This is included in tip number 2.
Budget your money. Bawal mag-overspend or be left with so much of their currency, which you may not be able to exchange here in Manila. Unless, of course, you plan to go back in a few months time.
Always remember that part of the destination is the travelling part. Remember to appreciate the uniqueness and requirements of your travel buddies.
Set expectations. So you know what you want to do when you are there.
Be flexible. Sometimes, going around on foot allows you to discover places and stuff that are not part of your itinerary. Go lang ng go.
Rehydrate and beautify!

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Ry.

2012-01-15T13:20:00.003+08:00

Positivity

The Forefront

At the forefront of 2012 will be a positive attitude towards life in general. Life may be unfair and luck may not be siding on us 100% of the time, but heck, there are still a lot of things to be optimistic and happy about. Remember that half-full/half-empty cup, precisely that's it. Our fears, uncertainties and doubts (FUDS) inhibit us from becoming positive, it’s time I conquer them even more solidly.

Core Value Identification and Enhancement

Positivity can be effectively done if our mindset will be focused on our core personal values. Let our values speak who we are, ascertain how we want to change the world and define what we will do.

Health & Beauty

Improvement of physical and mental state.

Positivity’s greatest index is of feeling great about yourself. Feeling great is equated with looking great. This will entail regular visits to doctors, dermatologists, psychologists and therapists to create a wonderful physical and mental state. Knowing that you are disease free makes a great mental balance.

Things to be done:

Dermatologist session every month
Gastroenterologist visit this January
Seek help to find a good psychiatrist from doctor friends

Relationships

Work Relationships

Significantly affected by the positive state, work relationships will be honed from a mere co-worker to a professional mentor or a work friend.

Family and Friends

My successes would mean less if not shared with family and friends. I wish to be spare more of my time improving my relationship with them especially now that the number is increasing, it would be difficult to create quality if quantity is increasing, i.e. nephews and nieces.

Romantic Affiliations

While this is a little bit of a stretch, not being negative here, but I leave this part to the Universe as I do not have a blueprint just yet on how to approach this. Come what may?

Social and Environmental Footprint

I wish to share myself at least in the areas of education and the environment. I have no idea how or when or where, I just have to put these in my mind for now just so when that time comes that a certain opportunity arises I will certainly have the mindset for this.

Things to be done:

Calm and cool stance at work - “it can be done, don’t pressure yourself”
Believe in your instincts and guts more than anybody else’s. You know your life more. Start being responsible for it and take charge.
Be tolerant and open-minded. Emphatize!

Creativity

Creating The Most Beautiful Creativity

It's impossible to be creative if you are negative, as claimed in the same book, The Man Who Sold His Ferrari. This is the final frontier where my positivity will take me.

Reinvention

It started with changing my name form Raf to Ry with Ry representing a whole lot of newness. What would Raf typically do and how Ry would change things? What would Ry do in certain situations or events? What Ry would do that will be totally different from what Raf does all the time?

Challenging Personal Perspective

This year, my perspective will be challenged by none other than ME! I believe that exposing myself to different culture and personalities will allow me to hone my skills in actually turning my mind 180-degree on will.

Intellectual Enhancement

I wish to read books, newspapers, magazines and create something out of all these readings - from an entrepreneurial venture, new sales strategies, hobbies to as simple as blog entry or a collage of pictures to share. Ultimate goal is to be able to enhance intellectually by doing and implementing not just by planning or creating an outline of idea.

Things to Be Done:

Read the newspaper daily
Read one book a month
Share what you have read and learned and offer your own analysis and next steps.
Be interested to be interesting.

Today As If Your Last

2011-12-12T14:27:00.001+08:00

Death of life and love, I find very similar in terms of the emotions that go with both. You go through the same except that death of life is something stronger and bigger in terms of its overall impact. In a criteria for judging, it takes 100%.

Death teaches you a lot of things. It teaches you that every thing is finite - everything human is finite. It ends. I have no idea or information if there's something after death of life. Our religion tells that there is. But our humanity tells us that there is more to life and death.

The death of my dog somehow opened me to a different level of consciousness. True, there were a number of deaths in the family - grand parents, uncles, aunties, cousins, etc. But this is the closest to home, if not at all home.

I saw how my dog died. I saw how she scrambled for her last breath. I witnessed how she fought through her disease until her dying moment. Denial was very fast to kick in. As I rushed her to the vet, I kept on shouting her name and stroking her dying body. I saw how her eyes turned lifeless, soul-less. I saw how her mouth opened and her tongue lifelessly limped. When I carried her, I felt how suddenly heavy she was with her head, paws and tail giving in so willingly to gravity. The vet resuscitated her, performing the usual CPR, the way it was performed to human. As I fought back my tears and tried my best to face the truth with an open mind and heart, I scrambled in my head how to focus on what the vet was explaining or instructing me how to bury her whilst they wrap her in newspaper and plastic bag.

It was very painful to see someone close to your heart be wrapped in newspaper and plastic bag for burial. All the almost 7 years you were together to be summarized into a 2-foot deep grave together with my tears, sweat and mucus as they mixed with the soil in our backyard.

Blame came in shortly. The should haves, would haves and could haves are quick to enter your thoughts. I should have not went out that Saturday night so I would have heard her screamed in pain early dawn of Sunday, as told by Mom. I should have not drunk that night so that I would have the strength to rush her to the vet early Sunday morning. I should have paid extra attention to her when her right hind leg was inflamed and insisted to the vet that blood test be conducted when I brought her for check up last Tuesday. On Sunday lunch, when I finally woke up with hangover, I should have rushed her already upon seeing that she was not moving at all. But I ended up eating lunch first and brushing my teeth before I felt that it was an emergency. I could have saved her. But I was not able to. And, ironically, she died of liver infection (suspected not yet confirmed, pending the blood test), the same thing that may put me to rest in the future with my current medical condition and alcohol-based entertainment and that night of alcoholic celebration that would have saved her if I did not attend that Christmas party.

As I put sense into this, I finally understood what "living like it's your last day" meant. The should'ves, would'ves and could'ves are too painful to bear. I do not want to spend my and my love ones' last day fighting, being nonchalant, angry, annoyed, being negative, or generally doing nothing extraordinary. As I quote Steve Jobs' Stanford commencement speech in 2005, "Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart."

Nobody has escaped death. But a lot of people are escaping from this universal truth thinking that they still have enough time to love, to change things, to follow their hearts, to live a full life. My dog was quick to point that time is running out. Now, every day, as I will look myself in the mirror, I have to ask myself if every thing that I do, words I say, thoughts in my mind are the last things I want before I die or before any of the people I love die. It certainly makes decision-making very easy.

I do not know for how long I will mourn, but I surely do not want to spend my last day on Earth feeling like this. I still have my parents, sisters and brothers, nephews and nieces to share love with. I would love to spend my last days making sure that they feel the love I have for them. I do not know how to express but I will express it as if today is my last.

Sa Ngalan ng Freebies

2011-10-10T14:09:00.003+08:00

I’m excited to watch the Eternal Sunshine of A Spotless Mind on the Noontec MovieHome V8 Media Player.

Because, in our effort to forget the past, our destiny commands us to be with the ONE. Hands down, one of the most common stories in the world but told wonderfully in a heart-breaking, mind-boggling screenplay and cinematography!

Not to mention, that Jim Carrey's performance was way different from his Ace Ventura stint.

Source: IMDB Website

Want one? Grab one free from YugaTech — http://yugatech.ph/pKdxNy

Breathe Me

2011-10-10T11:45:00.003+08:00

"The years have passed and our pasts continue to haunt us. We were young, eager lads; now one's an unhappy husband, the other a gallivanting man around town. It seems the love we were looking for had somehow eluded as and all that we have right now is this tender thing, a memory of who we used to be ... and perhaps it is enough." - Kane

It made me think of how my past dates ended and how we would once again see each other but differently - from that with lust and attraction to nothing but just friends or, even for most, just acquaintance. Sometimes, you want to "piga" the Universe why ended up with nothing when the primary objective then was to have the thing.

Dates and sex thereafter, things changed and the initial attraction and lust are gone and that you part ways eventually. Lucky you if by some chances granted by the universe you see each other once again and spend some time together on a level of friendship. Then, you look back and make you feel "sayang" but somehow going back to that point in the past is never gonna happen ever. And however hot they turn out to be, wala pa rin.

But the sense of sayang and wala pa rin makes you thankful nonetheless for that time you shared together when this guy took notice and made you kilig somehow.

No Answers

2011-07-17T21:07:00.001+08:00

"I had hoped that you'd see my face and that you'd be reminded that for me, it isn't over yet" - Adele

There should be a switch somewhere out there just to turn off certain thoughts as you move on with your life. And no, not those kinky thoughts. Sa ibang araw 'yan, alam mo na. Somehow, it turned you on and made you realize that it is quite difficult to learn things out of situations or events. Basta, ganun lang. Tanggapin na lang ang katotohanan.

As I look forward to Monday, I feel I need an Eat.Pray.Love moment. Tapusin ko lang projects ko tapos kekemehin na 'yang moment na 'yan.

I remember one of my ex boss's style of executing apathy during emotion-filled, adrenalin-rushing moments. I have to agree with him on that style, to a certain extent and that in the course of your daily living reasons appear, answers sprout from the garden of life and you just end your day with a big smile.

That Hotel Thing

2011-01-24T15:28:00.001+08:00

I went back to the dating scene (as if I ever left..).

Being lethargic, I dragged myself to the gym yesterday as I was trying to take advantage of me going out of the house. Living in far away places surely makes you so lazy to get up and drive.

Anyhoots, the real reason that I went out was to have a date (*yihiy*). We met a few years ago. I cannot actually remember when but surely what I saw now is so much attractive than what I saw years ago. There was really no definite plan as I was not really keen on meeting up. (Sometimes, the dating game is just too frustrating that it just drains the alindog power out of me.)

So, all the way I went to The Fort, to be instructed that we go on a convoy and head to Diamond Hotel. WTF?!, right? As in hotel. (At least not motel, ahahahh).

I got all scared and uncomfortable. I am not the type. (I think, *wink*).

Parked, got out of the car. A key was handed to me by the date. And we headed to room 2414.

"I did not expect that we are going here. I was actually thinking that we'd go to a mall and eat. Gutom kasi ako", I blurted out half-annoyingly, as I was so uncomfortable.

"Here, let's order something and have it sent here.", the reply.

"Burger for me. But I don't wanna eat alone. Order something."

A text message was sent to my BFF. "Bes, I've a date and I was brought here at Diamond Hotel. I'm scared".

Will replied, "I can smell that you don't like this date."

Agree.

But for the record, I wanna give it a shot. Really. Hence, I stayed until it was time for me to go.

I enjoyed it. Nothing happened, ok? I don't do that anymore. That's ewwwie. Ahahhaa (*plastic laugh*).

Thankfully, I gave it a shot.

Hmmmmmm............

Attitude. Aptitude. Alindog

2011-01-17T12:37:00.001+08:00

What a wonderful Monday *sarcasm*.

Best effort it is but the nega vibes are really stronger this year. Why is it that the negative things are so much easier to notice? It makes a sound and its deafening. It breathes and exhales fire along the way.

Moving on......

I have this wonderful blog idea and I hope to start it before summer starts. I want my own fragrance blog. I work for a fragrance company so why not give my opinion on them whilst I have the materials to write about. I used to be very fond of fragrances and I remember back in elementary and high school, my Dad would always have bottles of perfume when he returns from his stints abroad. Oh I loved those days. But now that everyday I am evaluating fragrances for different applications (note: from colognes to powder detergent), fragrances just seem so ordinary for me already.

Wish me luck!

Raf Feliciano invited you to Dropbox

2011-01-06T07:03:00.001+08:00

Raf Feliciano wants you to use Dropbox to sync and share files online and across computers.

Get started here.

- The Dropbox Team

To stop receiving invites from Dropbox, click here

Needs Improvement

2010-07-18T13:20:00.000+08:00

After 5 years, I have finally realized why I would always and easily give up on love. I have this huge fear of it.

And it’s not being jaded at all. It’s this fear of allowing someone to have total control over you, someone who can easily alter your mood and control how happy or sad you would be. It’s this fear of the idea that someone can easily influence some of your choices or preferences. It’s quite daunting that someone will share sorrow and happiness with you. That there is this someone you can explore life with, together, forever.

And last night, after 3 days of waiting eagerly for the night, I went directly to surrender mode. There is so much risk involved. I knew right from the start where it will lead but I wanted to make sure, at least. So that I could say to myself that "I gave it a try".

And now, I feel like I want to shop.

Who or whatever you do
Dont let anyone love you
Touch them where it hurts
And then youll leave
Im only gonna let you kill me once

-Diana Vickers, Once

How Can Some People Be So.....Ewan

2010-07-17T15:29:00.000+08:00

How sometimes you wish you never had to deal with other people.

Gardener

You are supposed to tend to the plants and the blue grass. If for some reason the plants are dying and the weeds are a plenty, then we might have to review your performance. Your daily activities should not only include watering the plants, but also making sure that they are getting enough nourishment, trimming and protection from insects and other parasites. It must be made sure that the flowering plants continue to bear flower, especially during summer and/or Christmas time. The vines must be cut and positioned into places where they should only be located. The shrubs must maintain a certain shape and trimming the budding leaves is a must. This is your job. Making sure that the garden is beautiful and spot-free.

Jeepney Driver

Your first and foremost responsibility is to take your passengers from point A to point B in the safest, fastest and hassle-free way. This entails that you need to make sure that your vehicle is on its tiptop shape. So that unnecessary emergency stops and accidents may be avoided. It is also your responsibility to observe traffic rules and regulations for your own safety, your passengers' and of your co-motorists'.

Police

You are supposed to strictly enforce the law and put civilian above you, not under you. You do not have the privilege to break the law that you are enforcing. Promotion of peace and order should be tattooed on your eyes so that you will never forget why you are being paid by the citizens of this country.

House Help

You are being paid to make sure that the house is clean - every nook, spaces and other singit-singit of the house should be free from dirt, dust, cobwebs, dead insects, etc. You are to make sure that the house is safe and that it is in its pristine condition all the time. Take time to shine the floors, remove oil and grease on the kitchen table, clean the electric fans, and make sure that the home owner is happy every time he/she gets home from work. Make sure that the place is a safe place where kids can play and have fun. The house help must be able to also look after the security of the house, to a certain degree, and keep it safe from possible theft, fire, and other man-made destructions.

Of Wishes and Crushes

2010-07-12T20:26:00.001+08:00

I just want this someone for so long now. The objective was already made known but it was rejected the moment it was said. I understand the fact that there wasn't any spark as far as the other party is concerned. But at the back of my mind, I know, that what I want can happen for I always get what my heart and mind desire.

Will this situation prove me wrong?

My New 'Do

2010-07-12T09:34:00.001+08:00

Somebody asked me to post my new 'do. So here it is:

"hmmmm, How come I cannot post a picture here? Must be the theme I am using?"

UPDATE. Here it is.

I am liking the shorts thing lately. I need to show off my running legs (with all the throbbing veins in it). Sayang naman e. Ahaha.

"I'm solo, I'm riding solo, I'm riding solo, I'm riding solo, Solo!" - Jason Derulo

And I am Back

2010-07-12T09:13:00.001+08:00

Hiatus from blogging. Yes. It's because life hasn't been that interesting or I succumbed again to indifference. ahahha.

No, absolutely not!!

I was just not in the zone to put something here lately. Not that life was pretty uninteresting, but things just went crazy that I never had the time to put something creative out of all themse

To start off, I have a NEW JOB!!! Yeah, baby!!! I am just overwhelmed with the idea and the reality that I have moved on (again) to something new. The insatiable part of me longed for something better, hence, moving to a better company, a competitor of the previous company where I worked for almost 4 years. This is actually my fifth week!

Thanks universe. It's really getting better.

WARNING: Biohazard Alert

2009-12-23T09:02:00.000+08:00

This is to inform that a biohazard material is currently being handled. There will be signs of discomfort around the chest area and confusion with this material. While prolonged exposure may sometime lead to happiness, satisfaction, or even feeling of being in heaven, the addictive nature of this substance may lead to temporary loss of sanity, sleep deprivation, and irritation. Brain functions may also be impaired.

Should these discomforts lead to nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath, it is heavily advised to leave the area of exposure and immediately seek professional treatment.

This serves as the first and final warning. Consider yourself informed. Your cooperation and understanding are highly appreciated.

That Damn 140 Characters

2009-12-23T09:00:00.001+08:00

In the advent of the rule KISS (keep it short and [supply the last S]) applied in business and our "(un)zen" way of life, we have seen the rise of Twitter and Plurk that even celebrities and other groups and organizations have their own tweets updating us with their busy lives. I'm sure you have your own account too and are following tons of celebrities from Mariah and Miley to even Chico and Del.

I am completely amazed at how thoughts are neatly compressed into 140 characters. Maybe this is the advent of a modern-day "haiku" and seeing clever tweets, allowing your brains to open up and think of the endless permutations of the thoughts posted.

Consider yourself updated with people, technologies, and what-have-you's that it's like an RSS reader, only the updates are compressed into a few number of characters. The power to choose what to read and the instant updates with a scroll on your internet browser enable you to actually filter and focus on what you really want to know.

Although, I have seen a significant decrease in blog entries. Oh well, I guess, we no longer have the luxury to read more in less time, or, that 140-character enlightenment is all what we need at this very moment.

The 2010 Elections

2009-03-30T06:45:00.000+08:00

This blog is officially afflicted with the 2010 virus!!

With the CHACHA sounding loudly from the House of (mis)Representatives, I believe that, strongly, a lot of Filipinos right now, especially the younger generations are feeling that change is very much needed and not charter change but GOVERNMENT/LEADERSHIP CHANGE. Given the recent win of Obama in the US and the crises afflicting our country, and I am not talking about the usual poverty and economy, but more of the political and governance crisis, we, the Filipino youth, are more eager than ever to be part of this much needed impetus for our country to be great once again.

We can start by actually getting to know the candidates who are planning to run and telling our friends and families what we have learned from them. Websites of these candidates are already up and running and I am sure Facebook is flooded will all their pages talking about how perfect they can be to be the President of the Republic.

Whilst most of us may be perfect for the position, we need to elevate the usual requirements. Think of it as we, the Filipino people, the employer and the candidates as the job applicant.

As for now, you may start by checking out Kaya Natin Movement and their Facebook account if you want to push Gov. Panlilio (Pampanga) and Gov. Padaca (Isabela).

Too Tired with Social Networking Stuff

2009-03-29T16:08:00.000+08:00

This post may be a bit ironic from the title but this social networking sites are a tad boring already. Maybe I should start deleting some people here and just keep those I have been friends with for a long time. Or maybe, I should set my privacy settings so as not to divulge too much info about my life, not that I feel a lot of stalkers out there but I am no longer comfortable showing my current status, where I recently went or what I ate an hour ago.

SNFS - Social networking fatigue syndrome.

Bits and Pieces

2009-02-02T07:23:00.000+08:00

It's been a long time since I posted something here.

And so here I am, with snippets of what happened.

I have this major crush! Well, he's just one of those frisbee player. But he's straight. A little bromance won't hurt naman, right??? I have been playing for two Sundays and two Fridays in a row na. I just love ultimate. Magnanimously fab! Ow, and that's not the guy I am referring to. I just wanted to show a pic of me in action with jersey on!!! Umextra lang siya sa pic. Although, ok lang, at least mukhang valid ang pic at hindi nagpapacute lang, as-if-in-action kinda pic. I love it. Hahaha. I mean, it's all about GL or ganda lang, right?!?! And that's where I am good at! I think, more than anything, and that will suffice na noh!

And well, I have this thing in my pocket. It's a new phone - a SAMSUNG i780!! Weeeeee. But a second-hand lang 'coz aside from the savings factor, I am not really that good in taking care of handheld devices. I just wanted it. It has all the functions that I need and more. Although the more part, I am still figuring out how to use. But I am majorly loving the QWERTY and the 3G and the everything. Gah! I missed Windows Mobile OS. I have been using Palm for more than a year now and it feels great to be back home to Windows. But I am not that much of a fan, still. It's just that Palm has not released a similar device or at least something better than the current models they have right now. But I am so looking forward to this new device from Palm, the PALM PRE!!!! Di ba, just like pare lang! But then again, it looks like it does not have anything for video calling, which is like the coolest ever for phones lately. But the new OS is something to look forward to!!!!! So watch out for it!!!!

Oh, and by the way, I had the funniest job interview ever!!! ha! I felt like I was just talking to Wilber or to Chelo. I even gave the interviewer a CD of my newsletter. Fun lang talaga, I swear. I was laughing out loud the moment I stepped in my car kasi it was just one of those very light, bubbly, and gay interview that I had. It must be my BEST job interview ever! I am sure she is loving me by now and that she will never ever forget me!!!

Anyhoot, I have been on a shopping spree lately. I don't know why. And I am so digging this new shirt I got. Hay nako, don't be surprised to see me everyday wearing this because it's so comfy and red!!! I love red (well, lately.)

And I am so tanned!!! I love my negrito-inspired color. It's just so summer-y! Although, I must admit that the sun damage is so apparent na with my wrinkly and lined forehead and the laughlines! Gah! I need Dr. Murad!! Now!!! Heheheh. And the work stress is so much higher than before, hence the horrendous eye bags and a tired aura altogether. But I am happy naman, materialistically, that is! hahaha.

Watch out for the release of my newsletter. It's gonna be so fab, again! I know, right!?!?

Hehehe!

Tale As Old As Time

2009-01-17T16:54:00.000+08:00

Can I just say how much a fan I am of this show:

photo from poptimal.com

Starring Justin Bruening (needs more acting workshop though), aside from the nostalgia that it brings me, given the fact that I was a sucker for the old one starring David Hasselhoff, the pumped-up, pimped ride, with all the adrenaline and high-tech stuff that goes with the car, and a nitrous oxide-infused thrills and breath-taking scenes ala Mission Impossible, Transformer and Macgyver all rolled into one are just SOME of the reasons why you should watch this too. Well, that is, if you're onto these stuff.

I wish David Hasselhoff will be a guest in one of the episodes. I miss this look e (though I have a DVD of all the seasons of Kinght Rider circa 80s!!!):

photo from knightrideronline.com

Thoughts About Aging and Other "Pakielamera" Stuff

2009-01-17T12:54:00.000+08:00

I don't know why aging is somewhat, to a certain extent, equated to being ugly or lifeless and opposite of vitality and freshness. Why not just enjoy aging? Don't you think that we are just being conditioned by anti-aging product manufacturers that wrinkles, sagging and dull skin are ugly? After all, whatever you put on your self or whatever you eat and however you exercise, age still is a function of the number of years and gained wisdom.

I was reading this blog entry from Jim Paredes, and I quote:

"Our world has made a cult of youth and put it on a pedestal. We worship youth above all other human characteristics, often even above talent, wisdom and experience. While one may argue that all these are important, they become doubly valuable when the person who has these attributes is also young. It’s a young world, after all. Or rather, it’s a world made for and of the young."

I would always think that talent, wisdom and experience are one of those intangible, immeasurable characteristics that a person can truly cherish and be grateful for, something that the younger generation will never learn, except for some theories learned from somebody else's experience. I just don't get it why the youth would waste their time proving to the world that they fully living their lives. Besides, what can they really prove to the world - that they can party like there's no tomorrow, they can down a whole keg of beer, they can dance and sing just like Britney? It's not like most of them have contributed to world peace. hehe

On to other stuff....

I don't know why adults would always ask if you have a boyfriend/girlfriend, when are you going to get married, why don't you have a child yet, yada-yada? Don't they know that it is against the holy grail of the youth of today?

In a church, with my family waiting for the priest, we chanced upon our neighbor whom my parents have not seen for quiat awhile, hence the usual kamustahan:

My Mom while proudly carrying her apo: "Mare, kamusta ka na?"
Neighbor Mom (seated beside her were her two daughters who are of marrying and
conception age): Eto tumatanda na. '"Yan na ba ang anak ni Roxanne?"
My Mom: "Oo, ang ganda ng apo ko noh. Ikaw kelan ka magkaka-apo?"
Neighbor Mom: "Next year."
The daughters: "Asa ka pa"
Me whispering to my mom: "Ma, 'wag kang pakielamera."
Mom to me: Irap.

If it is somehow irritating for the adults to be told that they are fat and old, it is similarly irritating to us, the younger generation, to be asked the aforementioned questions, especially when in a wedding or any family gatherings, i.e. reunions, baptism, etc.

Oh well, kanya-kanya lang 'yang priorities and beliefs. We live in a world where there is no longer an all-encompassing moral system. The degree of differentiation and individuality we have seen from the last three decades has erected a set of different moral systems based on age, sex, financial class, profession, etc. Hence, different social graces will be expected from the different groups around.

Open mind? Yeah, very necessary at this point. Otherwise, world war 3.

Rollin'

2009-01-15T04:14:00.000+08:00

I'm on a roll!

Whata dah?

2009-01-11T13:55:00.000+08:00

I have been battling with the worst colds ever! It has been a week since I succumbed to the fact that I am infected with this virus. Normally I would just cure it off with a good night's sleep after an intense gym workout and perspiration-inducing dry sauna session. Sometimes, a massage would also be part of the routine.

But, hell, none of which I have done to cure me. I am just too lazy to lift weights, brain functions even during sleep (work-related not some fantasies playing during dreaming) and could not find the time to go to my favorite spa. Hence, I am writing this to tell the colds to shut up and drive away. (Sana may powers ang writing to cure all the illnesses of the world)

And my reason why I feel so lethargic - MY COLDS! It has made me soooooooooooooo lazy as in crazy-to-the-bones laziness. All I want to do are as follow:

Work
Work
Work
and did I mention work?

It seems that there are so many things to do and yet I cannot organize my consciousness to put these into a list of priorities 1, 2, and 3.

Oh, and I also want to go out on a date, but this person I am trying to hook-up with is very busy, or so he claims. While the list is a bit on the full side, I can't seem to muster that energy to proceed to guy 2 and then to 3 and to 4. (Obviously, I know my priorities here, in terms of candidate number, that is. hihihi)

The second week of January is about to start and yet I have not lifted a finger to start writing the articles for my newsletter. (Hehehe nauna pa ang blog na ito. Well this is soooo much easier to do than a serious piece of article).

And I have to call pa this local food service for a franchise. I mean, time is running out as my proposed business location may already be filled or occupied. Baka sabunutan ko yung nauna sa akin!!!

And then next week I have to attend the Board Meeting where our new(old) house is located - CAVITE! As in very Stepford cum Desperate Housewives ang dating ko next Saturday!!! I have to be there because my Dad is disputing all those penalties he incurred for not paying his membership dues. Para 5 years lang naman. I just wish a hot dad would be there to witness me shine in a meeting like that. I need to carve out myself there if serious consideration of settling in that side of the south is in progress.

Whatevs, I'll just complete my gift list for 2009 (I didn't give any gifts las Christmas because I was tooo lazy to buy).

Maximum intensity,
Raf

Must I Be Scared?

2009-01-09T14:17:00.000+08:00

I haven't been feeling the blues lately. It seems that my life is pretty much sane and satisfying.

Should this be a point wherein one must start worrying?

On another train of thought...... Well, well, well enjoy it as long as it lasts. Maybe tomorrow will be a different day. Maybe because my life wheel is currently flat, hence, it's not moving me up and down, here nor there.

I MUST BE FLYING!!!! Gah! AHLAVIT MOOOORE!

It's Not Just Fusion, It's Fyushion!

2009-01-07T11:13:00.000+08:00

Merriam-Webster Dictionary Online defines FUSION as “a merging of diverse, distinct, or separate elements into a unified whole”. In the world of FMCG, these different and diverse elements are unified and merged into an entirely new, highly differentiated and innovative whole (product). Specifically, it is when you use ideas, ingredients, technologies, or even marketing strategies from one industry to another, sort of using an apple to sell oranges. Hence, the terms NUTRACEUTICALS, NUTRICOSMETICS, and COSMECEUTICALS are quite common and several product launches under these categories have been observed.

For the past years, these new products serve as enablers for new and emerging lifestyles and allowing to enjoy life to the fullest and even exciting senses to the maximum level. The market longed for a healthier lifestyle giving a greater sense of wellbeing – with the mind and body balance at the forefront – given the modern day stress, environmental mishaps and the post 9/11 anxiety. Manufacturers came up with products that not only provide good nutrition but also provide a sense of prevention and cure. Thus, we were introduced to products such as the different functional and fortified food products or the nutraceuticals. These products are further categorized according to benefits that they provide: heart health, brain food, bone mass, energy-boosting, joints and weight management to name a few.

Interesting ingredients in recent product launches include DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), EFA (essential fatty acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and ARA (arachidonic acid) that boost brain power; L-carnitine and oligosaccharides for fat burning and weight management; glucosamine and chondroitin for joint management, etc.

It is also noteworthy that some food products are being marketed as beautifying foods using cosmetic product ingredients related to beauty such as collagen and hyaluronic acid. On the other hand, the cosmetic industry has launched products with foods as their key ingredient prompting technology and ingredient suppliers to determine the efficacy of these ingredients in cosmetic applications, i.e. milk for whitening and smoothening, slimming effect of white tea as used in a body-slimming/-shaping gel, lycopene for skin lightening.

Other manufacturers would market the personal care product as “food-inspired”.

On the pharmaceutical side, the growth of medicinal and herbal tea bags containing functional and pharmaceutical ingredients has blurred the demarcation line between medicine and food.

Another product that has clearly shown the fusion between pharmaceutical product and cosmetics is the glutathione capsule that is said to provide effective whitening and antioxidation through its glutathione content. Another very popular product is the capsule that provide slimming and fat burning due to L-carnitine and green tea extract contents.

Thus, one would not be surprised to see soaps and lotions using glutathione as a key ingredient for whitening and even applied in other cosmetics and toiletries products.

One very important aspect of these fusions is how the benefits are communicated and how the complex web of sensory appeal helps in improving the perceived efficacy of the product, with flavors and fragrances at the forefront. A cosmetofood fusion would likely require a flavor linked to beauty; a fruit flavor with floral notes associations, i.e. peach or even a floral flavor, i.e. lavender, chamomile. On the other hand, a nutricosmetics product may require a gourmand fragrance, i.e. lemon vanilla for higher vitamin C content effect or chocolate fragrance if chocolate is the active ingredient used. Depending on the benefits, active ingredients and brand image, the polysensorial appeal enables a certain product or brand to convey the message of active ingredient content, efficacy, perceived benefits plus the experience and emotions of the sensations.

Mane’s continuous commitment in improving sensorial appeal in designing fragrances is exhibited in the new Mane Captives, a compendium of new Mane proprietary molecules. According to Christophe Marin, EMEA Fragrance Director, the compendium consists of molecules that are not yet commercialized but are already used in global Mane product development. This is part of research and development activities in discovering new molecules or finding new technologies in ingredient and product design. Thus, fragrance designs and flavor creations become even more exciting because creativity and innovation take a whole new and higher level for Mane. “What’s even more thrilling about these new molecules is that we are replacing molecules that are obsolete or has limited supply while giving that sense of exclusivity to our clients”, Marin said.

These developments in Mane may even fuel new fusions in the future: enviroceuticals, cosmecharity, nutriethics, nutrifashion, cosmexperience, nutrifeelings, emoceuticals, etc. After all, Mane has been fusing creativity and technology in the design of fragrances and flavors for more than a hundred years now.

A No Cha-Cha Zone

2008-12-11T11:24:00.000+08:00

I am officially declaring this site to be a No Cha-Cha Zone.

The Vacation

2008-12-07T17:49:00.000+08:00

Have you ever had that gnawing feeling of wanting something new or different that you think will satisfy your needs in a way that is long-lasting and truly elevating? For example, spending a night with other or new friends, going to a never-heard-off place, or simply lounging in the sand with the salt-heavy mist kissing your skin.

10 more working days, Raf. 10 more effing working days. And you're done.

2009

2008-12-01T11:05:00.000+08:00

Excited for 2009, I have been thinking of how I will spend the next year. Hopefully, I get to do the following:

1. Open another business.
While the water-refilling business that my friends and I recently put up is still on its recovery period, I am currently thinking of where to invest the money that I will earn in 2009. Well, the stocks market is quite uncertain at this point, although financial bloodbath is even the best time to start planting seeds. Thus, I will just continue investing there. I do not want to be too liquid nowadays as I tend to overspend sometimes.

2. Travel
I would love to go back to the US and visit my niece. Heheh, my niece lang talaga. I also have a scheduled trip to Bangkok. But I am not sure yet as to my availability. I also would like to travel to northern Luzon areas. Budget trip lang ha. I haven't gone to any places beyond Baguio (I know, loser).

3. Work harder
Now that I have an additional role at work, I am sure that my time will be spent endlessly on visiting clients and coughing up more creative concepts. Oh, this is a piece of cake (trying my best to put at the backseat my growing unrest with the added responsibilities.)

4. Start improving my sports skills
I did not grow in a household with a sporty attitude. So I wish that next year, I will be a faster runner and a better ultimate (frisbee) player. I hope to also join any ultimate tournament next year.

5. Love my Country more.
I wish to visit more historical sites and national museums next year. I wish to be reconnected via these channels. Hopefully, I will learn something new or express things on different perspectives. I wish to grow the love I have for our Country.

6. Saner
I want to find ways on how to control anger outbursts. I really need to control that. Considering that I so know how to control the opposite emotion, I am sure I can overcome this as well.

7. DIY
I wish to do more DIY projects in improving our homes. Although, this one, I am not yet that sure if I really want it or not. Nevertheless, sure.

Kailan

2008-12-01T10:17:00.000+08:00

Kailang muling kikilos ang mga Pilipino laban sa mga magnanakaw ng karapatan, katotohanan at tunay na kalayaan?

The Universe's Check and Balance

2008-11-18T15:56:00.000+08:00

I just think that the current financial crisis today is what we call the universe's way of restoring the fulcrum at the middle of the lever. It goes without saying that damn all ye greedy men for the you are the first to feel the wrath unleashed.

Karma, plain and simple.

Unfortunately, there are collateral damages, which I think is fair an/or natural. You will never be a part of the collateral if you have done things in your power to protect yourself from it.

The world is still fair even if majority of us thinks otherwise.

Zubiri, You Failed Me

2008-11-14T05:43:00.000+08:00

After inhibiting from the Senate inquiry on the fertilizer fund scam, Senator Migs Zubiri further showed that his allegiance is to his master, the master of deception, rather than to the Filipino people.

I believe that the Inquirer was quite true when they referred to him as the "grateful stooge" because as of now he has not done anything but protect the same person who have been robbing us of our nation's greatness!

And I sincerely wished that I did not vote for you last 2007.You failed me.

New Year Too Soon

2008-11-12T17:20:00.000+08:00

It came to early for me when I was able to formulate the question that will challenge me throughout the whole year, starting on November 13, 2008 and will end on the 12th of November of next year.

And the question is.......(drumroll)

What's next?

image from time.com

May this be a great year for me to look forward too!!! Gee, I am so excited for the next things to happen to me and to come my way.

Oooowee oooweee!

So Sick

2008-11-09T12:47:00.000+08:00

Not that I want to sing Neyo's song but I just have this general feeling towards the Philippine government, I am sick and tired.

I was at the church this morning after I ran my second 10k marathon and while I was there listening, the church was pretty much saying how we form it, how we, Christians, are collectively known as the Church. And that all of us have that same responsibilities to make the Church change and grow.

I believe, this is the time when the Church and the State cannot be separated as they are built and composed of the same people - the Filipinos, well, generally (the Muslims, Pagans and other nonreligious sect are part of the State nonetheless). And I think this is the time when we need to act and work on changing and growing the nation as the Nation.

We've seen several organizations and groups fighting for the cause of our dear Motherland, corruption and all those other stuff (we are again under the negative spotlight being named as the 5th hungriest nation as per Inquirer frontpage, November 8, 2008) and I am again reminded of what the priest told during the homily - we cannot just stay in front of our desks and write, comment, and shout our opinions out but we need to first and foremost ask ourselves if we have done something already for our State aside from the usual ITR's we pay every April.

I was totally awed at how the Americans are changing their future at this point when they voted for a man who is promising changes for them and for the world. As I am totally clueless how to deal with this thing as I do not know how I can use my gifts and talents for the country when you see around you rampant corruption, not only in the way we act but also how our minds schemes for something bad, how we are trying to step ahead while stepping on other toes, how we've become so individualistic in this time of much needed societal action, etc.

And I am as guilty as hell to these crimes too.

I hope someday soon that we can work these things out and that someday we will also shout for change and make it happen. Let's start today.

My Life Expectancy is 88 Years.

2008-11-06T15:19:00.000+08:00

I took the life expectancy calculator and is expected to live for 88 years.

Below is the feedback on how to add years to my life and by how much:

Personal

+ 0.5: Cutting back on your hours at work, approaching, if you can, 40 or fewer hours, could add half a year to your longevity

Lifestyle

+ 0.5: Minimizing or cutting out your caffeinated coffee consumption completely could provide you with about half a year more in life expectancy

+ 2.0: If it is ok with your doctor, taking an 81 mg aspirin every day improves your hear and brain health and could help you delay or escape a heart attack or stroke. Taking an aspirin each day, perferably in the evening, could add 2 years to your life expectancy.

+ 10.0: Risky sexual behavior and injecting drugs are powerful risk factors for AIDS, hepatitis and viruses that cause cancers; all potentially lethal illnesses. The more you partake in these activities the greater your risk. Given your reported level of participation, you could add 10 years to your life expectancy if you stop these behaviors.

Nutrition

+ 4.0 The more you can get fast foods out of your diet the better. With your current consumption, removing fast oods from your diet could add 4 years to your life expectancy

+ 1.0: Red meat is the primary source of potentially life-shortening iron. Cutting back your read meat consumption to 1-2 days per week or less could add 1 year to your life expectancy

+ 0.5: Cutting back sweets in your diet to 1-2 times per week or less could add half a year to your life expectancy

+ 1.0: Iron is likely an age-accelerator and increases risk for age-related diseases. Stopping your iron supplement could add a year to your life expectancy

Medical

+ 1.0: Examining yourself for cancer could add a year to your life expectancy

+ 0.5: Being in touch with your health care provider annually is very important to your strategy to screen for and prevent illness. Getting the appropriate blood tests on a regular basis could add a half a year

+ 1.0: Decreasing your diastolic blood pressure (the second of the two numbers) to less than 80 or even lower could add 1 year to your life expectancy

+ 0.5: Getting your blood sugar checked could add half a year to your life expectancy

Duh, e gusto ko na ngang sumakabilang buhay e!

So What's Next?

2008-11-05T09:11:00.000+08:00

Now that Obama has won, what shall we be expecting to happen?

Will black be the new color for the season? Will we see a decline in sales of whitening products and see more and more tanning salons around?

What about the hairstyle? Are we going to expect the afro look in the next months to come?

Heheh

I Finished 350th out of 566!!!

2008-10-31T06:34:00.000+08:00

For my first 10k run, which took me 1:04:32 to finish, is already a mean feat considering that it was my first time to join a marathon.

I finished strong!!! Hahaha

Results may be found here!

'Till the next marathon!

Mayaman vs. Middle Class vs. Mahihirap

2008-10-30T16:25:00.000+08:00

Ang mga mayayaman marunong magtipid at mag-invest.

Ang mga middle class, marunong lang magtipid.

Pero ang mga mahihirap, walang alam.

Are You Happy

2008-10-16T10:30:00.000+08:00

An officemate asked me if I were happy. I think, I can easily say, that, yes I am happy in a general sense.

If I were to classify the term happy, I may open a Pandora's box that I may regret later on.

So yes, I am happy. And let's leave it at that.

Eager Beaver

2008-10-12T07:12:00.000+08:00

I can rant all I want the way I would always do here and I can talk about not ready to go back to reality and all those hangover from that too-soon-to-end a vacay.

But I will not do that. Instead, I will challenge reality if it is ready for my grand homecoming? Are you really ready reality? I hope you are. Because you are in for some changes here and there and you'll be surprised to see an eager beaver on the loose.

So, once again, I ask, are you ready reality?

The Limitations

2008-09-18T06:27:00.000+08:00

It seems that no matter how hard you try, limitations are quite persistent, like that person you owe money from. Nonetheless, you are immersed in the fact that passion can do you good. And yet, before everything even ends, you see it to end and passion was of no help at all.

It’s just a matter of time, and we all hate time, that somewhere, someday, life will be something that we have hoped it to be. Be careful, though. Wishes are too blinding, like that spark of light fairy godmothers emit. And when energies are lost, you see nothing. Nothing. You’re just too blinded. You can’t even adjust to the darkness in front.

But, heck, don’t stop. What is life if we ever did stop?

Remembering the Delimitations part of a scientific paper. Now I know why they exist.

A New CK One Bottle

2008-09-04T09:43:00.000+08:00

In its effort to further the popularity of CK One, if not being already too popular and too common, Calvin Klein recently released a hip-hop-inspired bottle for this very successful and timeless eau. The bottle, inspired by the trend and vibrant hip-hop music, the flashy red bottle features two people in fluid movement, similar to hip-hop moves and groves.

Pictures and reports from Osmoz

Horoscope for Today

2008-09-04T07:47:00.000+08:00

"Your social circle has a magnetic pull for you now, but finish your work, first."

What social circle are you referring to? Huwhaaat?!
The virtual social circle is pulling me and I am giving in to them. What shall I do? Don't want to finish my work. That's for sure. I'm so......

Horoscope for Today

2008-09-03T04:53:00.000+08:00

I love reading horoscope. Heheh. What they have to say is just plain funny, very entertaining.

And when you check your horoscope from Friendster and you get something like this:

"When you meet someone new, today, give them time to show you who they really are."

Hehe, kakilig lang.

I Need Action

2008-08-28T05:38:00.000+08:00

I hate sedentary lifestyle. I want to be always on-the-move. I just can never be in one single damn place for a long time. I wanna move out and move on.

I need to explore and see what's out there for me and what I can do.

Support the Reproductive Health Bill

2008-08-27T07:34:00.000+08:00

Click on the online petition and sign in your name.

Let your voices be heard.

To Handle is To F*(^k Up Too Much

2008-08-21T08:33:00.000+08:00

I feel like I am made to fuck things up. Demarcation lines do not exist when I deal. And when they exist, I could not care any less. I cross them flamboyantly. I challenge the existence wholeheartedly. It seems that once I handle things, given a time frame of action, almost always, I will fuck things up. Reasons? Hmmmm, that's what I want my brain to get in touch with, soon.

I laugh at disarray. I love the negative vibes in certain situations. I feel like I am at my highest energy when things are an absolute mayday. But I go into action immediately, fighting off entropy. However, I usually end up crazier than when I started the organizing route. Although along the way of organizing I stumble upon rocks of solid foundation.

I feel dangerous to you and me.

When Me Time Is Too Much, I Get Cranky Right After

2008-08-19T06:07:00.000+08:00

After my shift at the water station, I went to the gym at Wynsum hoping for something exciting to happen. But saw a friend of mine I have not seen in a long time. Feeling so sick, tired and stressed out, I ended up watching 4 episodes of Weeds instead of working out and/or mingling with my friend. I decided to turn Saturday into a "me" time and went to High Streets for a massage.

Thanks to The Spa, a good hilot kept me in tip-top shape for the next activity ahead: eating.

I ate at Friday's and was attended to by a really cute, ~~I-wish-to-lick-and-taste~~, waiter named Louie. My plan was just to eat burger, thanks to that magazine I read at The Spa featuring the best burgers in town, and drink house water for less calorie impact on my body and my pocket. But Louie insisted that I take a bottomless frozen margarita for only P250, with matching pa-cute smile and wink. Who can resist ~~him~~…..errrr…. the margarita?

So I ordered, ate and watched the last episode of Weeds on my PDA. I was so cocooned in my personal bubble. And then I paid. And crashed all of a sudden. Too much me-time can also burst bubbles. I was feeling so sick that I was not able to accompany Hudy Ann to Gov't.

Yesterday, while I was cleaning my wallet off old receipts and not-so-important note pieces I turned my attention to the Friday’s receipt. And, O, WOW, there was a “love” note from Louie. While I am not a fan of sweet-nothings, I find the move so attractive that I want to eat there again soon! Haha.

Yesterday, we watched The X-Files: I Want To Believe - I, Ericson, Ken and Hudson. Fun continued at Manong’s in Alabang for more booze and food. James followed and we had an ultimately fun, drinking session, which will be continued next Saturday at Ericson’s place.

And then I crashed.

Alcohol + pa-cuteness + devil’s advocate me + temptation + saying hi to temptation = sin.

Sin being in right angle with guilt and tears. I ended up looking like this today:

Yellow = looking forward to a sunshiny day.

Brown shades for a sephia mood.

Sad night + less sleep + hangover = floating, dampened spirits.

Thanks to Starbucks, today will be a new day for us.

Beware of Starex Van with Plate Number ZLN814

2008-08-13T05:44:00.000+08:00

Please read this text message from my cousin Deng Acuña regarding a hit-and-run incident involving his wife and these so-called VIPs riding a dark gray Starex with plate #ZLN814.

Good evening. I just want to report a hit and run incident that happened this afternoon (August 11, 2008), 2:52pm at the intersection of Laguna Bel-Air along Balibago Tagaytay Road in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

My wife was driving her silver Toyota RAV4 (XLP538) going to Balibago and stopped at the red light of the intersection. On green, she began to drive forward, when all of a sudden, a dark gray Starex van, with 2 motorcycle police escorts, Plate Number ZLN814 cut her and bumped the right fender of her car. Going to Balibago, they overtook from the opposite side into oncoming traffic, as attested to by bystanders.

My wife tried to talk to them but they waived her off. saying that they are VIP, and my wife should have let them pass. Starting on green light, with my wife at the forefront of the intersection, that would be impossible. Luckily, my wife and two kids were not hurt from the incident they had with the so-called VIP.

The 2 policemen were quoted saying they do not have any liability as they were VIP, even if you bring the case to LTO. If they had diplomat plates, I would understand. I just would like to know who the VIP was.

From Deng Acuña, a taxpayer.
=================
To date, it was learned that the dark gray Starex van is owned by a Korean, YOUNG HAN KWON of Sitio Bayugo San Isidro Poblacion, Antipolo Rizal.

Ang sarap maging VIP! Ang sarap ipapatay.

Plurker Ka Na Ba?

2008-08-07T12:41:00.000+08:00

Plurk!!!

Energy!

2008-07-28T10:35:00.000+08:00

Modern lifestyle has never been this active! An ordinary person taking extraordinary challenges with his/her daily shenanigans for that experiential and purposeful living has gone routinely mundane. And this spells the general mass market moving towards a very active lifestyle. So what better way to serve this emerging market than to enable them to perform and be at their peak? ENERGY!

Several products have been launched by multinational companies within this energy-active lifestyle trend; in different formats. Nivea’s Pure Energy Shower Gel combines relaxation and boost for the body and soul with its creamy lather, energizing care and its stimulating scent. Focusing on “natural” ingredients, Molton Brown’s Cassia Energy Sport Hair and Body Wash uses the power of cassia for cleansing and lemon, lime and rosemary essential oils for refreshing burst of life to the senses. DuWop has collaborated with e•lix•r Tonics & Teas to create Elixrstix, a gorgeous, non-sticky lip gloss, Elixrstix provide moisturizing coverage, giving a gorgeous glow of color while strengthening the body's ability to transform food into energy to do work through the powerful medley of yerba mate, ginseng, green tea extract and Guarana. Dove’s fragrance-free and non-irritating Energy Glow Brightening Eye Cream with SPF 8 provides a youthful glow and energy minimizing the appearance of dark circles, puffiness and fine, dry lines for that radiant and energized look. Apvita Natural Products has a line-up of Aromatherapy Energy products including shampoo, shower gel, body scrub, salt scrub, body milk, and eau de toilette. The line-up is based on the power of ginger, lime and green tea; reviving the senses and energizing the body, with vitamins and essential oils. Fine fragrances wise, Comme Des Garcon launched the Series 8: Energy-C EDT, a line-up of 3 EDTs lemon, lime and grapefruits for that energy boost and vitamin cocktail scents.

Ingredients to note include caffeine, guarana, ginseng, essential oils from herbs, spices and citrus fruits. Vitamins and minerals also play an important role in conveying the energy aspects, specifically vitamin B complex, C, E and Zn. Skin care beauty benefits are also included in the energy line-up such as anti-wrinkle/fine lines for a youthful “glow”, intense moisture and smoothening benefits. Polysensorial attributes and cues include pigments and glitters, cooling/relaxing sensations, zesty and/or cool/fresh/green fragrances, and “bursting” beads.

The beverage industry, specifically the functional energy and sports drink products can perfectly serve as inspirations in the development of cosmetic and toiletries (C&T) products within the “energy”, “active” trends. Noteworthy of which is how these functional drinks are being geared towards serving the markets with active lifestyle apart from the professional athletes and sports enthusiasts. Similarly, the “energy”, “active” C&T products can be developed to address different market segments – the professional athletes and the sports & leisure enthusiasts. Intense, sweaty, high-energy, adrenalin-filled situations must be taken into account in developing these products. Specific sensorial cues, beauty care and benefits must be taken into account when these situations are addressed. An example would be the fragrances that would go well with the sweat and simultaneously provide sensorial burst of energy.

The future of the “energy”, “active” cosmetic and toiletries products lies in its ability to provide a polysensorial and experiential benefits alongside with other beauty benefits such as anti-aging, intense moisture, youthful-looking living. Looking at the graph below, the intersection provides a clear picture of the well-being boost – boost of beauty, boost of energy, certainly a boost to life!

BE ERAGED: ERase the signs of AGE!!!

2008-07-28T10:15:00.000+08:00

Who wants a pollution magnet? What about a Swiss Army Knife-type of face cream? Green science? Surely, the toll of living this stressful life has gone into the minds of marketers and product developers that, already, there is a plethora of anti-aging face products standing out in the market today. As reported by Melissa Meisel, associate editor of Happi Magazine, according to Information Resoursces Inc. (IRI), facial anti-aging products have increased 17.2%, for a total value of $605.7 million for 2007 and an additional $27.8 for body anti-aging. Chicago market research firm Mintel’s Facial Skin Care report for 2007 forecasted that the sales of anti-aging face creams will increase 50% from 2006 – 11.

In the Philippines, based on the Euromonitor Report for Philippine Cosmetic and Toiletries Report for 2007, last year saw the boom of anti-aging and revitalizing skin care products infused with UV filters. The report forecasted that the growth will continue due to social and economic boom in the country coupled with launches of anti-aging product collection from both multinational and local companies and intensive consumer education and campaigns.

However, with this very competitive industry, how shall one be on top?

Efficacy, Benefits, Safety

Consumers are still driven by the fact that they want to get rid of wrinkles or signs of aging or protect themselves from the harsh elements that can cause premature skin-aging. Thus, efficacy is very much important. The products must deliver its promised benefits. Consumers must feel and see the results instantaneously, especially for those who are result-driven. The hiyang factor or that efficacy and safety bond between the product and the consumer can drive brand loyalty. Consumers are also looking for multifunctional products, allowing multibenefits in one product spelling convenience and elegance. It would be easier for consumers who are suffering from multiple aging-related skin problems to target all these with one bottle rather than buy specific product per skin problem.

Ingredients, Awareness, Claims

Marketers fall prey onto the scientific jargon strategy in educating the market regarding the supposed active ingredient responsible for the benefits of their products. Coupled with the growing confusion among consumers in a very crowded market, the distrust of ordinary mass market becomes evident when selecting and purchasing or even trying a new product. However, with the development and proof of new technologies in skin care, the complexities are forever increasing. Thus, it may be suitable for manufacturers to develop a skin care regimen that can be customized based on skin type, personality and lifestyle of the target market, something that the educated masses can easily understand and trust. And with the growing consumer-centric, participative marketing, consumers will definitely favor something that they themselves “made” for their own use.

Day and Night

Improved awareness regarding the harmful effects of sun exposure has also enabled the market to look for SPF values in the skin care products that they are buying. Thus, a lot of new launches have SPF as one of the gold standards in facial care. Even night creams are increasing in popularity, with consumers knowing that they do not need SPF and a light formulation at night. What they are looking for is a product that can truly indulge – something that offers more moisture, more active ingredients and more restorative rather than protective.

Polysensorial, Experiential

Speaking of indulgence, the sensorial experience must also be considered in developing new skin care product range. Fragrances, sensory cues and other organoleptic factors must be heavily studied. Instant lift, stretch or a little numbing of the skin similar to Botox are just some of the sensorial cues for consumers to see and feel the effects instantaneously. Minor skin peeling, plumping and intense shine and moisturization are also critical to convey the message of real and perceived efficacy. Light floral-fruity and floral-green fragrances convey an indulging treat for a day cream, while light floral-oriental and gourmand notes are expected for a night restoration cream.

Packaging, Stability

Convenient and streamlined elegant packaging can also spell success. For most consumers with very hectic and chaotic lifestyle, simple and easy application through packaging is a tremendous boost in the life of these products. Stability is also important as no one would want to lather on with a microbes-laden formulation.

So what’s next with skin care? Definitely anti-aging will be the gold standard, however, the field needs a face lift in the next years to come, according to Leigh Rowinski, director, client solutions of IRI. A more fine-tuned and instant product types shall be the next face of skin care products according to Lisa Cohorn, director of brand development for Mary Kay, “if someone will discover a way to deliver all the consumer wants into fewer steps, it would have a profound effect on our crazy lives”.

2008 is already a history. So what’s your future? BE ERAGED!

Relax. Take It Easy. Have Fun.

2008-07-28T10:08:00.000+08:00

Inflation, work, pressure, typhoon, price increase, pollution, wrinkles, aging – want some more of these or would you rather have a life on the other side of our living spectrum. Enough of these dramas and can we, like, move on? Here are some tips to endure stress from everyday living.

Keep Things Simple

Avoid clutter. Practice 5S – sort, set order, sweep, standardized and sustain while listening to your favorite music. Clean, organize, and rearrange. A positive mind requires an organized area. Life is simple if you want it to be. Joseph Brackett, Jr., an American Shaker Elder and songwriter, can’t put it very simply:

'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free,
'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.

Positivity is the Secret

The law of attraction, as revealed by Rhonda Byrne's The Secret, tells us that our thoughts and feelings create our experiences, and that we attract to ourselves what we focus our attention on. Frame your thoughts the way you would create positive affirmations, by focusing on what you do want rather than what frustrates you. Create that optimistic perspective in your mind by maximizing successes and challenging yourself to do better when failures come. Practice positive affirmations. This also allows you to trigger the “relaxation response” rather than the “fight or flight response” when faced with serious, stressful situation.

Re/Create Connections

Having that positive aura also attracts people. Connect, and connect really well. Sharing stories, laughing out loud, having fun with people you value are just very inexpensive but truly effective. Missing that old buddy? Try giving him a call and indulge on nostalgia. Reminisce and talk silly. Relive happy moments and connect them to your present life.

Find A New Ho(u)bby

Learning a new hobby or skill creates winning moments as soon as results materialized. Have you ever thought of seeing full blooms abound in the garden you made yourself? What about seeing that beach body after some months of pouring out your stress in the gym? Read everything you could put your hands onto – product labels, old newspapers, worn-out magazines, what-have-you. Write and write creatively you should. Pour out your sentiments in photography or maybe cook your dramas away with couture cuisine. Have you already watched a campy TV series or analyze a funny, heart-touching movie?

The options are endless – from the cheap to the truly expensive. Let your imagination run wild and free as you search for that newest hobby. Try pottery!

Reward Yourself

It does not have to be something very pricey. Eating a yogurt ice cream bar, updating entries in your journal, adding an extra 5 minutes to your sleep may be all that you need. You may even keep a list of things that you would want to reward yourself in the future to help you be at your best all the time. This sets you to look forward to the next celebration. The key is to prolong the effect of success with a simple celebration.

Take Care of Your Health

Eat a balanced diet and never skip a meal even with a hectic lifestyle. Try focusing on healthier alternatives. Buy a cook book and experiment with your meals. Be creative with what you eat – sweet + salty, sweet + chili, chili + cooling sensation. Try something new and exotic and experience gustatory delight.

Take a bath daily. The warm water relaxes our body and helps in regulating proper blood circulation and muscle relaxation. Lather on with your favorite shower gel or soap and feel the tingling sensation on your skin. You may even opt for a relaxing candle and a soothing music in the background. Fragrances with lavender, chamomile, mint, and other herbs are proven to help in the relaxation process.

A great follow-up to the above activities: ZZZZ-SLEEP! Sleep recharges the brain. It also promotes relaxation and healing by several physiological activities such as blood flow increase to muscles, tissue repair and growth, immune system enhancement, and rapid eye movement (REM) that facilitates memory recharge and retention.

The key is to enjoy life as it is. Accepting the facts of life enables us to focus more on our happiness and make some adjustments to accommodate whatever setbacks we may encounter as we traverse life. Stress, dramas, anxiety, fear are all part of living. Remembering the Hebrew philosophy: This, too, shall pass.

References

stress.about.com
www.ehow.com
www.wikipedia.org
www.bedbathandbeyond.com
www.holisticonline.com

The World of Aroma Wellness

2008-07-28T10:00:00.000+08:00

Fragrance, both pleasant and unpleasant, undoubtedly, is a very important sensory aspect and evokes or triggers mental and physical responses. We are able to distinguish over 10,000 different odor molecules and utilize our sense of smell for a multitude of activities; from enjoying the aroma of a freshly brewed coffee to deciding whom not to sit next to on the bus. Thus, the basis for aromatherapy, which is strictly defined as the therapeutic use of volatile essential oils to cure or to mitigate or to prevent diseases, infections or indispositions by means of the sense of smell. Similarly, on a more mental response, fragrances provide certain emotions or even experiences from the past that subject us to different feelings and emotions. For this issue, Ms. Joelle Lerious Patrix, chief Perfumer for Mane Asia, gives a refreshing insight to the world of aroma wellness.

What is aroma wellness and how is it related to aromatherapy? What about aromachology?

Aroma Wellness would cover all the sensations that are aroused by scents, those related to memories, associations of smell to a certain life’s context such as an experience triggering a specific sensation. It is very much different from aromatherapy in the sense that in aromatherapy the objective is to cure or to prevent, while aroma wellness is to provide a general state of positive well-being from the sensations aroused by the scents. Aroma wellness is very subjective in nature as different experiences are triggered with a specific smell. On the contrary, aromatherapy has been widely studied to provide specific therapeutic effects like use of smell to treat coughs, halitosis or even to treat certain nervous system disorders. Citing an example on how aromatherapy and aroma wellness differ, ginger provides a soothing effect, especially on the throat in aromatherapy. However, for aroma wellness, on a more subjective note, for me, evokes a certain spa-like effect or even evokes memories of China and teas.

Smell and memory are closely linked. Smell evokes memories. That’s why grass scent for me evokes memories of my garden during summer and for some others, it may mean that grass is being cut along the highway. Odor memory is very strong and may last a long time. And normally, the odor is connected to a certain point in our lives.

Aroma wellness and aromachology would be somehow similar, in the sense that there are established feelings or emotions triggered by a specific scent. But aromachology is more of a rigorous science as it tries to establish relationships that are verifiable through reproducible experiments that can be expressed in quantitative terms and whose statistical significance can be determined. It is not concerned on individual case histories. Aroma wellness provides a more personal, consumer-centric approach to fragrances; a more individualized and customized approach.

Do you think aroma wellness is more of a creative or artistic evolution of aromatherapy, especially in this time of health and wellness era?

Not really. Aromatherapy is more therapeutic in nature, while aroma wellness is more concerned with personal experiences evoked by fragrances. Another example would be citrus fruits. It normally provides a refreshing treat and is even included in skin care products to convey freshness, cleanliness. However, on certain

Does this mean that fragrances can also be functional, that it can provide certain emotions and feelings that would help in leading to total personal wellness, apart from the usual fragrance function of masking or providing a sensorial appeal to formulations?

No. If it was functional, a specific scent should trigger the same reaction for everyone. There is no generic rule that can be applied as perfumery and the perception of smells are highly subjective and are very personal; linked to each person’s past experiences and even personality.

What types of emotions or feelings can scents provide? Can you also give some example of fragrance notes?

Scents can evoke romance, for example frangipani flowers. Clean and fresh scents are often associated with citrus, pine scents. Scents can even also provide a reassurance of mildness and gentleness such as musks, powdery notes and even vanilla. It can also trigger hunger, especially with scents like chocolate, lemon pies or other edible notes. You can also use scents to establish a certain luxury or extravagance feeling such as patchouli or oriental notes. And for some refreshing and energizing notes, you have the spices, dry woods and citrus to convey that message.

I will give some raw materials that are normally used in fragrances, and then tell me what emotions or feelings do you get from these?

Rose. It conveys cleanliness and reminds me of my make-up remover.

Jasmine. Holidays in Tunisia!

Red Flowers. Poppy flower dolls made by my Dad.

Lotus. Monet paintings.

Spices. Escape, travel, Moroccan pastille

Cardamom. India!

Vanilla: Childhood memories, comfort and reassuring smell

Coffee. Friendship, conviviality

Coconut. My sister’s skin.

Cream, Milk. Family meals during my childhood.

Fruits. INDONESIA! This place has a lot of exotic fruits that some I have not seen except now.

Berries. Birthdays, specifically strawberry cake.

Is there anything in Mane’s portfolio of creative technologies that can address aroma wellness?

The Jungle Essence is a non destructive technology that captures the scents in an in situ process or close to source/at source. It provides us with strong top notes and increased fragrance intensity without the solvents and less oil/wax contents. More importantly, its environment-friendly process and portability converge convenience and sustainable development.

Jungle Essence is a technology that enables us to capture all the scents that shape our lives; from a chocolate bar to the smell of our grandmother’s drawers or the delicate scent of muguet on the first of May. It enables us to create new concepts that can captivate the market. Capture all the olfactory emotions in our life.

Truly, aroma wellness is another creative venue in fragrance design. It also allows participation from consumers since their feelings, memories, and experiences will be considered in the development of new fragrances. Definitely by the market and for the market.

Reports from Scentillate

New Fragrance Design by Mane

2008-07-28T09:49:00.000+08:00

Actress and singer Jessica Simpson will launch her debut signature fragrance called Fancy in August 2008. It was created by perfumer Alexis Dadier of Mane Paris and developed with Parlux Fragrances and the Camuto Group.

The scent is described as being fresh and flirtatious and an expression of floral femininity. Simpson said,

With FANCY, I wanted to create a pretty fragrance, one that I could be
just as comfortable wearing on the red carpet or every day with my favorite jeans,"
"This is a special fragrance - personal, whimsical, playful and romantic. To me, FANCY is just that: Fancy." ...

"FANCY Jessica Simpson opens with the radiance of sparkling Pear and juicy Apricot Nectar wrapped with the glow of Red Fruits. The heart of FANCY is the captivating draw of dewy Gardenia laced with the delicacy of Night Blooming Jasmine. Toasted Almonds and Caramel notes provide a playful element. Creamy Sandalwood, infused with the sensual energy of Amber Crystals, unites with the embracing warmth of Vanilla Crème as FANCY clings to the skin at dry down. The fragrance itself is the color of blush champagne, a soft pink, the ultimate color of femininity."

The flacon was inspired by a vintage-bottle design. Jessica wanted the flacon to look pretty on a vanity table as well.

Top Notes

Pear, Apricot nectar, Red fruits.

Middle Notes
Gardenia, Jasmine, Toasted almonds.

Base Notes
Sandalwood, Vanilla crème, Amber crystals.

Texts and images lifted from The Scented Salamander and fragrance pyramid from Basenotes.

New Fragrance Design from Mane

2008-07-28T09:33:00.000+08:00

Luluforever is a sparkling floral-fruity fragrance for dynamic young fashionistas. An energetic fragrance blending cherry, yuzu and bergamot at the opening; jasmine, rose, nashi pear and pineapple in the heart and sandalwood, Lebanese cedar and musks at the base. The bottle reprises the curves of Lulu ©, but this time, the juice is pink with a touch of glitter.

Fragrance designed by Karine Dubreuil of Mane, ideal for trendy and dynamic young women, Luluforever is a fresh and feminine fragrance, full of energy. It is the quintessence of the spirit of big cities, where women are particularly active and fashion conscious.

Luluforever is a delightful fragrance created around a tonic mix of fruits and flowers. Its sparkling catch slowly turns into a gentle and light trail… In its charming helical bottle and very glamorous box with its scattering of plum-colored sparkling paillettes, it is both a fashionable and pleasant-to-wear perfume.

Paranoia is the Best Policy

2008-07-09T18:41:00.000+08:00

According to Andrew Grove of Intel, the paranoid survives.

Someone's about to stab you in the back or you're just too loony to think that there are always people who want your head detached from your body.

Be prepared. Be organized. Be strategic.

Crime is Contagious

2008-06-23T05:07:00.000+08:00

But not fashion and beauty.

A Friend Is Selling His Scanner

2008-06-23T05:00:00.000+08:00

http://lightstickjoe.multiply.com/journal/item/31/Canon_600F_Professional_Document35mm_Film_Scanner_for_sale_6.5K_only

Freeloader ang Labanan

2008-06-09T12:01:00.000+08:00

Hehehe yeah, for most people, the means to live is to freeload.

Hate is Such a Big Word. And So is Love....

2008-05-30T19:43:00.000+08:00

Two strong emotions on each and totally opposite side of the spectrum. Which side are you?

And yes, obviously all of us will outrightly answer the question with L.O.-L.O.-L.O.V.E, as Ashley Simpson would spell it.

But on the other hand, how shall one go about with love in life and life in love if the places we frequent are filled with so much hatred, high level of frustration, sense of despair and hopelessness?

And on top of it all, how can love be the answer if even we, ourselves, are the strong agents of negativity, bitterness, angst?

Why then, with both emotions very strong, one is always so much easier to do over the other?

A call to real love is in order. Now.

And maybe, just maybe, even if we just try, probably, we can do it, like a matter of habit, like the moon rising at night.

That Nerve Wracking Feeling

2008-05-28T11:09:00.000+08:00

Geez, I have this general, unnerving uncertainty in my mind.

It started with a P50/liter gasoline, and was even projected to double, at least, in the next two years. And they are not kidding, as one gasoline retailer issued a statement concerning the rationing and limiting of gasoline supply to their pump stations. While it may be to create this negative scenario, which is vividly painted in my brain, it can also be true that supplies are really so limited, that oil supply can become like rice, which a lot of traders are hoarding. We might not be able to buy or import oil at all!!!! I certainly don't like the idea of walking to work.

Then it dawned on me that with inflation hitting higher than 6% and prices spiraling up here and there, and now it has never been clearer like the sun shining in the morning of what survival of the fittest means.

Geez, buti na lang maganda ako.

An Introduction to Power Shopping

2008-05-19T07:36:00.000+08:00

Remember the last time you went to the mall because you want to find recluse from the jungles of retailing and that intoxicating scent of newness – that cotton-chemical scent from that sexy blouse, the strong leather note from a crisp pair of shoes, metal notes from electronic gadgets, etc. Or remember that last purchase you made because you want to make your miserable life a happy one. Rewind that moment, when you feel light, airheaded, blissful and emancipated after indulging on that decadent dessert you have been depriving yourself of because you are on a diet (financially and physically). Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce you to POWER SHOPPING – the complete opposite of what I have just listed and many of us are guilty of when we do our shopping.

I'm not sure if I am making sense here, but I had this eureka moment when I just bought two pairs of jeans from a local store, a 2GB micro SD, a new yellow shirt, some scarves, a pair of shoes and a new mobile phone (and almost subscribed to a wireless landline service) just because work is taking the little sanity I have left. And many are out there just like me, allowing emotions to dictate how, what and when to purchase to satisfy our whims and caprices. Keyword: EMOTION – the most influential (or not) things on most of our lives’ decision making processes.

And what better way but to serve these powerful emotions with emotionally charged-up ads, promotional strategies and other marketing activities out there by our dear manufacturers. Taglines (words) such as “Panatag ang Loob”, “Makulay ang Buhay”, “Intense”, “Fierce”, truly appeals into the aortas of our hearts. I have even read that most of branding activities are actually trying to be emotional in nature, especially those who want to connect their brands to a certain experience, feelings. I even read about “brand experience management” rather than just “brand management”.

Why not try power shopping instead of emotional shopping? Let the brains do the talking when making the decision of buying your new clothes or gadgets or cars or what-nots. And let not those ads appeal to your emotions, for once.

Shopping should never ever be done on an empty stomach. An empty stomach makes us all cranky and irritated, thus, leads to stuffing your shopping carts/bags with unnecessary junk that are not only bad on your wallet, but may also be bad for your looks and health. Think junk foods or that extra necklace you do not need.

List all the materials that you need to buy and indulge a bit with whatever trinkets you fancy. In that way, no deprivation is happening and that negative emotions will not make you crave for more. And when you crave for more? That becomes a very dangerous appeal to over shopping/eating. It is also nice to know that the more organized you are, the less time you spend in the mall. Ergo, the less temptation you have to impulsively buy.

Read labels. Juxtapose product qualities from the competition. Compare prices. These are very important as most products would have something valuable in them, unique and truly beneficial. Find out and analyze from what you have read the unique selling point and its supposed value for money. You can actually start your comparison thru the Internet, especially with electronic gadget purchases. The less interaction you have with the actual product, the more intellectual your shopping becomes. Because, sometimes, as soon as you feel the connection between you and the product you want to buy, you will surely end up buying, even if there’s something out there much cheaper and/or better.

Regular “rewards” shopping is also encouraged. You need that regular tap on the back for a job well done, don’t you? When you work so hard that you are forgetting to party and play, chances are you will make a huge purchase of something that you do not really need. Thus, you can frequently reward yourself with cheap indulgences, such as with a relaxing massage, a healthy meal from a vegan or organic restaurant, an extended bath, a lazy day at home, DVD marathons, etc. The point is not to deprive and over indulge later on, but to take it in small pieces and regularly distribute along the way of living.

Credit cards are actually great these days with the rewards and rebates systems credit card companies are offering. But you need to pay them on time as not to pay for unwanted finance and interest charges (those can pay your toll and gas already). So, if you are an impulsive buyer, you may try leaving your cards at home and bringing cash enough for eating and transport. With so many installment madness out there, in this way, imminent danger of swiping will be avoided; especially if you are not planning on buying anything and when the trip to the mall is a regular occurrence in your life.

The reason why the brain is placed on top of the heart is because you need to use the head more often than the heart. You don’t only hear this when you are having some heart problems. It can also be applied to shopping.

Shop with your head wisely!

My First Ever Inquirer Article

2008-05-16T05:04:00.000+08:00

And what better way to debut in a national newspaper but with a beauty-related article!!!!! Not so gay lang e. hehehehe

You may find my post HERE.

Thanks to Ruby for spotting!

Trust is a Very Big Word

2008-04-30T11:54:00.000+08:00

The present day anxiety befalling on majority of consumers caused by technological, environmental, emotional and physical stresses makes them more skeptical of products being offered to them in the grocery shelves. Questions like, “Are they really working?” and “Can we really trust these products to deliver what I need/want?” and “Are these made with artificial ingredients?” continue to hound the consciousness of our dear consumers. Authenticity becomes now one of the main issues in creating a winning product that can lure back their trust to brands/products.

The Natural and Organic (N&O) Products becomes a powerful tool to address this growing consciousness towards authentic products. With the consumers’ continuously eroding brand loyalty, product merits and socio-cultural appeal and image and even environmental “friendliness” come into picture. It is essential now to look back to what was and to translate them to what is and what will be. The instinctive reassurance comes from Mother Nature herself.

The N&O wave that has captured several companies, even prompted some to acquire N&O companies, i.e. L’Oreal and The Body Shop; Clorox and Burt’s Bees are one of those cues we have to notice. According to a study by Mane, a French fragrance and flavor house, the N&O products enable to win consumer trust and loyalty because of the following reasons: the absence of harsh chemicals and its perceived safety; a reflection of peer and community concern and respect; clean, sustainable and environment-friendly. It answers the healthier lifestyle of many consumers, especially since, generally, consumers perceive these as safer and have higher quality standards. The N&O products also reflect simplicity, a lifestyle that consumers want to have, like going back to the basic, which is very aspirational. Furthermore, these products enable environmental respect and sustainability and also enable some to benefit from fair-trade. All these positive feelings generated by these notions towards natural and organic products make consumers feel good about life and erase the stresses that plague them everyday.

However, consumers are becoming suspicious of “natural” labeling claims and actual product formulations resulting in a lack of brand trust. In fact, many so-called organic/natural products still contain high level of synthetic ingredients. Thus, the term “natural” and “organic” are very much open to different interpretations since it is unregulated yet in most countries, especially in emerging markets like the Philippines. There is no EU legislation yet relating to the certification of organic ingredients for cosmetics & personal care products and a couple of agencies in France and US that provide guidelines to these types of products. But, adherence to these is not yet mandated by law, more so here in the Philippines. It remains to be a value-adding strategy for most manufacturers in this line of products. In France, Ecocert, a certifying non governmental agency for natural and organic products, guarantees that a natural or organic cosmetic product is composed of a minimum of 95% ingredients of natural origin, and/or a minimum 10% ingredient of organic agriculture produce and that minimum of 95% of natural extracts from organic production. And this guarantees products to be “Made with Organic Ingredient” or “Natural/Organic”.

Similarly, in the US, the National Science Foundation has recently announced its plan to introduce new organic personal care standards and has released last January 17 NSF Draft Standard 305, which allows for voluntary certifications of products to enable “Made with Organic Ingredient” claim in the label and encompasses guidelines on ingredients and ingredient sources, labelling and marketing.

Product formulation-wise, most scientists are quite adamant with the use of “real” natural and/or organic ingredients, which are a MUST for N&O products. Some product qualities that we are used to, such as texture, aroma, and viscosity in personal care products are lost. Even the stability of products are at risk with use of these ingredients. And this remains to be a great challenge to scientists.

Price aside, the Natural and Organic Products has yet to formally and distinctively reach the shores of Manila through a plethora of beauty products symbolizing true Filipino traditions and authentic way of living. Especially during times of grays and blacks, Filipinos need the reassurance and security of aspirational “green” products changing the landscape of synthetic beauty regimen to a more trustworthy product of respect, fairness, quality and safety – the measure of “real” natural and organic beauty.

Question No. 4 Why are we on a constant search for something new and unique?

2008-04-28T05:24:00.000+08:00

Probably because, in this time of massive information overload and intense social networking, we are exposed to so many things that we have only crowdsroucing as our main teacher. And, we can never be so happy with that unless we experience these things ourselves.

Hence, the moving on, going out, travelling, eating something new and looking for something unique and authentic to experience.

Shisheido in Vietnam

2008-04-18T18:44:00.000+08:00

YES!!! You read it correclty! Shisheido, one of the popular cosmetics and toiletries Japanese brand is set to construct a 26,000 sq.m. of production, sales and marketing facility in Vietnam as reported in an issue of Cosmetics News Weekly.

Scary no? Vietnam is getting so much of the much needed FDIs than the Philippines.

Another sad fact....

Recent launches in the cosmetics and toiletries included our lowly MALUNGGAY (Moringa oleifera) example is Body Shop (I am not sure if they are already available here in Manila). How sad that local manufacturers have not turned into our kabukiran for the latest technologies in personal care and beauty. Though save Mr. Danny Manayaga's Secura, who is into extracting essential chemicals from plants, malunggay and papaya included.

I SAY----

LET US ONLY BUY PRODUCTS THAT ARE MADE HERE IN THE PHILIPPINES (some Ford cars, OR ARE MADE BY FILIPINO COMPANIES (Splash, some Bench products, Mang Inasal (haha, e ito ang unang pumasok sa isip ko e), etc.

READ THE LABELS AND SEE IF THE PRODUCTS YOU ARE CONTAMPLATING ON BUYING ARE MADE IN THE PHILIPPINES!!!!!!

Di mo ba feel na parang nadadaya ka kung bumibili ka ng damit sa Rustans na pagkamahal-mahal tapos sa mass-production-haven China lang pala ginawa?

I mean, duh, we have already proven ourselves to be worldclass, with all the global names in the luxury areas like Cobophue, Lhuillier, Salonga, etc.!!!!!!!!!

GO FILIPINO!!!! BUY FILIPINO!!!

E sino pa ba naman ang tutulong sa atin, kungdi tayu-tayo rin naman, together with our OFW brethren!

Question No. 3: Does Manila turn us into monsters or is it the other way around?

2008-04-18T18:05:00.000+08:00

MA. Basta ang alam ko, most of the people I meet outside Manila, abroad included, e matitino at hindi walang-hiya. And I feel a better sense of security in Jakarta and even in faraway places like Guimaras and Ibajay, Aklan. Not to mention a very orderly Davao and warm smiles and intense indulging Bohol.

OR

I couldn't care less. Ewan. Basta I know transient dweller lang ako ng Metro Manila.

Question No. 2: Are we obliged to help people?

2008-04-15T05:49:00.000+08:00

No, and we are definitely not expected and it has always been our prerogative if we want to help or not.

It's a choice.

Question 1: Do we enjoy too much?

2008-04-11T04:25:00.000+08:00

Yes. Because, given the three-day weekends as per some presidential order no., we have more time now to indulge ourselves with what life can offer.

No. I think we all deserve a break, given the stress of work, politics, relationships and economy.

Honda Accord For Sale

2008-04-10T05:18:00.000+08:00

2005 Honda Accord
V6 3.0L
Gray
62K mileage
All leather
Accessories: DVD player and sun roof, fog lamps

PRICE: 875,000 (negotiable)

Honda CRV For Sale

2008-04-09T17:57:00.000+08:00

Honda CRV

2.0L, A/T i-VTEC

Titanium

All leather

With Fog Lamps

Price: P780,000 (negotiable)

The Suncare Lifestyle

2008-04-01T08:44:00.000+08:00

Are you not excited for summer is just around the corner? With the Holy Week fast approaching and is earlier than usual, beachgoers and bakasyonistas all-around are on the roll for a summer gimmick. Whether it is going to be at the beach or just lounging in the mall or traversing one country border to another, surely the summer season promises nothing but fun and excitement. But are you prepared?

Let me prepare you for a summer journey that you would never forget with tips on how to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. But first a little raincheck…errrr…..suncheck.

The sun is the center of the universe. No, what I mean is that the sun is going to be the center of our “fun” universe this summer, of course. And did you know that the sun is very abundant of rays and rays galore (KidsHealth website) that can damage the skin:

§ UVA rays cause skin aging and wrinkling and contribute to skin cancer, such as melanoma. Because UVA rays pass effortlessly through the ozone layer (the protective layer of atmosphere, or shield, surrounding the earth), they make up the majority of our sun exposure. Beware of tanning beds because they use UVA rays. A UVA tan does not help protect the skin from further sun damage; it merely produces color and a false sense of protection from the sun.

§ UVB rays are also dangerous, causing sunburns, cataracts (clouding of the eye lens), and immune system damage. They also contribute to skin cancer. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is thought to be associated with severe UVB sunburns that occur before the age of 20. Most UVB rays are absorbed by the ozone layer, but enough of these rays pass through to cause serious damage.

§ UVC rays are the most dangerous, but fortunately, these rays are blocked by the ozone layer and don't reach the earth.

You wouldn’t want to look like a burnt toast, now, would you?

TIP #1. Allways wear sunblock and please wear it all the time, not only on beach days, but everyday. There are several sunblocks out there so just buy the one that is perfect for your skin type (you do not want to redden because of allergic reactions) and get the one with relatively higher SPF or sun protection factor. Remember 1 SPF is equal to 15 minutes of protected sun exposure. Thus, SPF 20 is equal to 5 hours or 300 minutes sun protection. Reapply often, approximately every 2 to 3 hours, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Also, you might want to put some 20-30 minutes before sun exposure. You surely would want the product to stick on your skin. And if you intend to stay in the water, get the waterproof type. And do not forget to choose the product with the right fragrance. You do not want to smell like a kid who’s been playing under the sun for 10 days. You will surely turn off people. You might even turn off the UV from touching your skin!! By the way, Mane has great suncare fragrance collection that you might want to try them out!

The skin is not the only one you need to protect here, but also your hair. We all know that sun + salted/chlorinated water = dry, damaged hair and several studies have proven that already. So you need to protect your crowning glory from the potential damages it may incur upon exposure to the sun and seawater.

TIP#2. Find a hair styling product with SPF. Not only do you look “beach-y” but you get to protect your hair too. If you cannot find one, according to www.ehow.com, spray your hair with sunscreen by mixing 1 teaspoon of sunscreen lotion with SPF of 25 or higher with 1/2 cup water in a spray bottle. Do keep the bottle in your bag for easy reapplication every after a couple of hours for ultimate sun protection. Or before going to any of your summer destinations, have a deep-conditioning treatment for preventive maintenance (www.womenfitness.net). Remember the keywords hydration, conditioning, intense moisture when buying hair care products to protect it from any damages brought forth by the sun and the salt water.

TIP #3. Do not forget your lips. Put on those lip balms and exude the Angelina Jolie-fashionable lips. Do consider finding a lip product that not only has SPF but also has some shimmer or tints, well for the girls. For the guys, uhmmm, you can stick to your usual lip balm. Try also the one with mint, for a more soothing feeling.

Now that you are fully chemical-laden, you need some clothes to cover up a bit of skin. An entire section on the newest beach wear may be found on the Fashion Passion Section of this newsletter. Keep the fun and spirit alive by looking fashionable under the sun. Well, I think you know the drill here. So I leave this part to your judgment.

TIP #4. Avoid the umbrella and leave that to the Koreans*. Use your pieces of clothing to cover up fashionably. Sunglasses, malongs, mesh bags, hats, scarves and your trustworthy abaniko fans will be enough for a glamorous cover-up. But be wary of looking like a hanger or a cabinet here. Sunglasses will be a very important item here since your eyes can also be severely damaged by the UVR, so use one with sun protection benefit.

Ok now that you are fully geared for the sun battle, you can now strut along the shores and feel the warm breeze of sea and air misting through your face and body. But, remember the sun is at its fiercest during 10am to 3pm (www.weather.com).

TIP #5. Avoid the sun if you must between those times. I am not being a wet blanket here, but if you cannot, try finding some shade from the trees and lounging there with a book and an iPod at hand. Who says that sun fun is all about sun exposure and saltwater immersion anyways? And while you’re at it, try contemplating on the shenanigans for the night. You’ll never know what will happen next.

By now, you must be totally exhausted and dehydrated from all those under-the-sun activities. It’s now time to eat your meal. Not only will this nourish you for the day, it will also make you feel aglow and on the pink of health. You definitely need the energy to get you going.

TIP #6. Drink a lot of water and fruit juices. You can also drink electrolyte water or fitness water to ensure maximum hydration and energy exchange inside your cells. You do not want to look like a burnt tomato, now, would you? Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables rich in beta carotenes, vitamins A, C and E and other antioxidants, which are vital for cell repair, nourishment and hydration. Avoid salty, fatty and sweet foods as these increase your need for water.

After all those activities, you may be feeling tired and would like to rest a bit. Not only will this help you recover but it can also prepare you for the night party.

TIP #7. Take a cool bath. It relaxes you and it enables to wash off the salt, sand and dust from your skin and hair. Use your favorite shampoo and conditioner and lather on with an indulging shower cream or moisturizing soap. Avoid using abrasive bath products such as those with beads or scrubs and leave the loofah at home. Your skin is uberly sensitive at this point and abrasion may increase the redness of your skin. After taking a bath, generously apply your favorite after-sun lotion and/or cooling gel to further relax your skin. You may use products with soothing aloe, relaxing lavender or cooling mint to relax you naturally. Avoid products with alcohol as this can further dry your skin. Do not forget to apply the necessary hair conditioners and lip balm for the hair and the lips.

Enjoying the sun is pretty simple nowadays that a plethora of suncare products are available within reach. Remember that you went to the beach to have fun, to party and to enjoy a very hot and humid time of the year. So, do not spoil it with skin redness, painful irritation and chapping skin or worse going to the doctor for treatment!

Enjoy the summer!

References:

* Author had seen several Koreans wearing hats and long sleeves and using umbrella while in the water. The author finds that weird but it is not in his intention to prejudge anybody.

Lost Weight

2008-02-21T15:39:00.000+08:00

While it may not be so significant, but for someone who is in the going for real-life thin"ness", a 2.5kg weight lost is such a huge feat! I love it.

Ito kasi ang target body ko:

Yippee to a new Hobby

2008-02-12T12:21:00.000+08:00

And yes, a month ago, I and Ericson bought our bikes since we have been planning on mountain biking. And yes we ha our first semi-mountain biking last Saturday at La Mesa Eco Park. Finally. And to La Mesa Park, our first "off-road" experience.

La Mesa is nice, but I thought you can bike inside the forest towards the watershed area, but unfortunately, the areas around the watershed were restricted to public access. Thinking about it now, it makes sense, since you do not want people to be taking a bath in a pool of water that is intended for drinking. Yikes. And also, I kind of expected that the area was big and so "forestry" but it looked to artificial. Nonetheless, it was a great respite from the metro and from work and kudos to all those fitness trails and other "park"-ish amenities. I love the place!!!

Going back to the biking. We have been biking around Brentville and Greenwoods for the past couple of weeks to get ourselves accustomed with the bike - changing gears, the weight, the maneuvering, balancing, etc. and so far so good. That's why we decided to take on the "off-road" feel of La Mesa.

Our next destination for our biking will be Tagaytay and Montalban, Rizal. Hopefully we can find a group to which we can join for more exposure in the world of mountain biking.

Montalban Biker

Ridgeview Trail, Tagaytay (actually hindi naman, kinuha ko lang sa kung saan site yan!)

(I know, goodbye pashminas, goodbye L'Oreal and Clinique and hello mountain ranges and mangayanan galore!)

A Call to Safety

2008-02-12T06:29:00.000+08:00

Dear Road Co-Users,

I know that these roads were laid for us to use and to "safely" transport us from point A to points B to Z. This is also in recognition of the Road Users Tax we pay everytime we renew our vehicle licenses from the LTO. And all of us definitely have the right to use these roads anytime, anywhere

But I think we should be mindful of the necessary safety precautions when we are using these roads. Road signs, traffic lights and other traffic regulating tools should be followed to the last letter and symbol. They were made specifically to allow us to have a safe and comfortable travel, if not to lessen our travel time.

Please also observe courtesy to other motorists and pedestrians as they also have certain rights on using certain roads made by our government. Let you be not an instrument in life-threatening instances and accident-inducing acts that may lead to demise of lives and properties.

To our manong PUJ and PUB drivers, please observe the No Loading / Unloading signs. You may also consider going to the outermost lane should for ingress and egress of passengers. Please also observe the queu of other co-drivers in terminals and other points of loading/unloading. You may also want to not put up terminals everywhere and have at least a 10-second stop for every Stops. And, also, have your carburetors and exhaust systems repaired.

To our tricycle/motorcycle drivers and bikers, kindly mind the lanes, use helmets and observe traffic rules and regulations, as they also apply to all of you even if you are driving only two/three-wheeled vehicles.

Pedestrians, please use the sidewalks, pedestrian lanes, overpasses and basically avoid the roads that were intended for vehicle use. Go to designated stop signs and queu when waiting for your PUJs and PUBs to arrive. You can buy an iPod or any other mobile devices to keep you entertained while waiting.

To the policemen and traffic enforcers, please strictly enforce traffic rules and regulations and not the rules of your family and personal needs. The public, through their taxes, are paying you to render traffic regulation services. So please do your job.

And lastly, to other private vehicle owners, please be mindful of the regular maintenance and check-ups of your car to avoid unnecessary stops, which considerably add up to the slow movement of vehicular traffic.

That's all for now.

Sincerely yours,

Co-driver Raf

(Written in reaction to several life-threatening happenstances on the way to Paliparan, Dasmarinas, Cavite through Daang Hari road and the road from Molino to Dasma)

Multiply

2008-02-08T03:38:00.000+08:00

Multiply has made my life so much easier. Imagine all the pop information, the things that I somehow need to know, I could get them from Multiply - from PS brushes, to music (well now I can't download but at least it opens me to new kinds of music), to videos (yes I love the TVC posted by our clients here, at least I get to see them since I rarely watch TV and I could download them to present to our affiliates), and even money-generating activities and the latest shows and what-have-yous.

Oh my, I miss Multiplying.

OJT Needed

2008-01-22T08:02:00.000+08:00

We are NOW hiring OJT. We are looking for the following students:

Food Technology, or any related course - one will be trained in flavor application and formulation development
Computer Science or any related course - will develop a database for market samples, presentations and idea

Just get in touch with me through multiply.

Thanks!!!

A Tribute to One of Life’s Most Important Luxury

2008-01-13T14:59:00.000+08:00

I have just finished reading the Inquirer and I came across an article about time management, and yes, I have seen it in the Classified Ads section, and it also contains information on self-development in the careers and employment (Ok, I am not in anyway defending why I am at that “section” again). Going back to the real issue, the article, discussing several points regarding time mismanagement, used the Pareto Principle wherein 20% percent of our time is spent on 80% of our accomplishments for the day. Furthermore, Stephen Covey put it simply: “Put first things first”.

Words like prioritize, plan, write, follow, discipline, the art of saying no, etc. came back in the article, words that are already known several years back when self-development and improvement was sought. And yet, in introspection, I seem to have forgotten how to master my time. The article further said that in line with poor time management, aside from productivity and efficiency, relationships suffer. Imagine, having a PDA, a laptop and two cellphones, still, time is mismanaged tremendously.

Looking closely, my day revolves into two phases: day and night. The day covers waking up and working until 6 – 7pm. The night phase follows with either going to the gym or just heading home and playing with my dog or with my bitch. On a bigger picture, that’s so few, considering that the time from waking up to falling asleep, more or less, is 17 hours.

Magnifying the picture a hundred times, you will see that the day phase involves mostly computer-related activities, followed closely by human interaction and lastly personal time, and yes, this involves going to the “room to rest” and to freshen up. On the other hand, the night phase involves nothing but just eating, relaxing, interacting with loved ones and basically gearing yourself up for the next day.

Magnifying several hundred times, you see that time wasters involve the following (a case-to-case basis, this is my time wasters, not yours):

Texting and calling, especially when you talk about things that should not really matter (this is me saying no to 24/7 call and text services, especially the forwarded messages, spare me from nonsense)
Mindless and pointless day and night wandering, quoting a song from Grey’s Anatomy Soundtrack, “I want to change the world, instead, I sleep”
Internet browsing on insignificant matters – Multiplying, Facebooking, Trevvy, Friendster, etc. - a testament to the notion that we Filipinos love poking our noses on each others’ lives.
Going on a hiatus – hours of DVD marathons, porn, internet downloading, staying inside the room and doing nothing
Too much rest and recreation. Admit it or not but all those vacation leaves, travels, bar hopping, dinning out, Starbucks lounging, alcohol binging, etc. are taking their toll, not only on my time, but also on my wallet and health. I have even already planned my Holy Week and the first long weekend this year (this is to hoping that February 25 is a nonworking holiday)
Generally, being lazy……

I want to do a lot of things. I want to learn a new skill (cooking Indian and Thai food and baking), go mountain-biking, hone my writing skill, read a lot of magazines, newspapers and books, clean and redesign my bedroom, join my bestfriend in his water-refilling business, renew my business permit, learn MS Access and Adobe After Effects, finish my 5 projects at work before the month ends, go to my dentist and have my retainers fixed, finish the How You Are Like Shampoo book, do my online stocks investment daily and earn extra money, tone my muscles and flatten my abs and have that 6-pack, organize the files in my laptop, maximize the use of my PDA, enjoy my iPod, reconnecting with old friends, especially Carol (I want to see your newborn son soon), research on specific subjects, start two new projects at work, etc.

Instead, I ended up doing the time wasters on a daily basis.

And so putting first things first, let me start by saying:

NO TO LETHARGY
Multiply is only used for researching the latest trends, new ideas and information and not for posting pictures, commenting endlessly and checking on what’s up and running with my friends and some online crushes. (I have deleted some nonsense accounts already and I do not intend on creating a Facebook. I will end checking Friendster on a daily basis.)
Websites to be regularly visited include Multiply, Jobstreet, Gmail, BPI Trade Online, PSE
Rest and recreation shall be only done on a quarterly basis. So I have to say goodbye to a planned February 25 vacation. (Yes, Bes, I am serioes, this is to learning how to say no)
Finish the first 5 projects before I proceed to the other two.
Decide whether I will renew my business permit or close the business. I am more keen on closing it for some legal and practical reasons and to find out other easier extra-money-making activities (stocks, water business, online selling, tiangge)
Movies shall be on a once-a-month basis
Dining out on a twice-a-month basis
TV watching limited to a 2-episode-per-week (Ugly Betty and Heroes), news, daily 2-hour primetime watching to check new products in advertisements
Newspaper on a twice-a-week basis (Saturday and Sunday)
Carwash every Sunday
Bathing Sasha every either Saturday or Sunday morning

And whatever extra time I will have, goes entirely to my family, Ericson and old and new friends. I know, the most important part of my life take the backseat as I need to improve myself further.

Now, I realized, my time is mostly spent with and to myself. I just wish I master the art of time management so that I could share me more, something that I have been wanting to do since 2007.

And I hope with this little piece of me, I get to share.

The Secret Revealed

2007-12-27T19:12:00.000+08:00

And yes it was. I must admit that it was a nice thing to see on the verge of the yearend.

Ain't that great?

All I can say is, you attract what you think.

Gratitude.

Visualize.

Effect.

Love it!!!!

DPSM Alumni Homecoming Feb 1, 2008

2007-12-14T08:15:00.000+08:00

The Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics, your home for 4 years or more, is celebrating the 11th year of the BS Computer Science and BS Biochemistry programs. As a member of this family, we invite you to come and reexperience the DPSM life.

The department and its programs has gone through a lot of changes. The BS Biochemistry has undergone several revisions. Likewise, the BS Computer Science has undergone several revisions and now offers two specialization tracks (Health Informatics and Statistical Computing). The department has also started offering a graduate program, MS Health Informatics major in Bioinformatics. Soon, the department will also offer the BS Applied Physics major in Medical Physics. Indeed, we have gone through a lot of improvement, but DPSM remains to be the same DPSM that you know.

No matter what period of the DPSM history you were part of, no matter what contributions and achievements you have made, DPSM is still very proud of you and eagerly awaits your return.

We hope to see you on Feb. 1, 2008, 6:00 pm at Ibarra's, Padre Faura St., Ermita, Manila (beside Kamayan Restaurant). This is our chance to reunite the graduates of BS Biochemistry and BS Computer Sciece, so mark your calendar! And to add more fun to this homecoming, please come in Retro attire. You may not know, you might even the prize of "Best Dressed 2008"!

The major highlights of this homecoming is the establishment of UP Manila Biochemistry Almuni Association and UP Manila Computer Science Alumni Association, and election of their officers.

Ticket price is Php500 and is available at the department. The first 20 alumni who can purchase the tickets will get a 6% discount!

For more information or for special arrangements for the tickets, don't hesitate to contact any of the following:

Biochemistry:
Tina Martin, Batch 2001 (09193567064; cbmartin9737@yahoo.com)
Glenn Pangilinan, Batch 2002 (09177940798; glennalin@yahoo.com)
Sherwin Ang, Batch 2004 (09223801839; sherwinjasonlimang@yahoo.com )
Kreza Ligaya, Batch 2006 (09178842908; krezaligaya@yahoo.com.ph)

Computer Science:
Richard Bryann Chua, Batch 2002 (09225688159;

richardbchua@gmail.com)
Aldrich Colin Co, Batch 2003 (09198618155; aldrich.co@gmail.com )

We are sincerely hoping for your support and participation in this
special event. Please pass this message to your batchmates/friends.
See you there!!!

In Reaction to And Then There Goes the Withdrawal Syndrome After A Night of Uber Fun.......

2007-12-10T12:03:00.000+08:00

I thank God for the flowers and the trees
I thank God for the gift of talent
I thank God for remembering the good deeds
I thank God for the bees and the birds
For the never ending sunshine
and the full moon that is beauty of all its worth
I thank Him for the smiles
and for the gayness and fun.
I thank Him for families and friends
who make life much easier to live.

Thank you.

And Then There Goes the Withdrawal Syndrome After A Night of Uber Fun

2007-12-10T09:13:00.000+08:00

Back to reality and, well, it sucks, big time.

I am just feeling restless over somethings I want to be over and done with but the wait is becoming more and more unbearable, hence the post about it. Not to talk about it directly as there are audience out there I am not keen on entertaining or otherwise with this post, so let's just put it in metaphors or whatever symbols I can conjure on the way to the end of this piece.

My mama told me to never underestimate the power of prayers and that in the advent of certain life-threatening or at least during life's dramas and when prayer seem to be the only recluse, they can really move mountains, even heaven and earth. So come I storming the heavens for wishes I hope to be granted in the near future.

And my prayers go something like this.........

Dear God,

It has been a long time since I stormed Your kingdom with prayers since I am always trusting to whatever you shower upon my door. I have not really specified anything in any of them and they would normally inlcude petitions for satisfaction, humility and patience to rule my world. But now, I would like to be more specific with my prayers since I am really longing for these things.

I would like to have that thing within me before the year ends. I believe the necessary inputs were put into place and even surpassed the expectations and beat every standard there is. It is but, I guess, normal for me to ask that the output be given in the form of magnanimous satisfaction and contentment.

Let me enjoy more of what I am doing, that may not be necessarily where I am right now but to a place where there is more joy, peace and understanding and where there is more drive towards success and breaking the standards and creating disruptive and significant changes. It may not be exactly what is in my mind right now but something that you would know I will enjoy, endure and improve.

Should I be not ready for these changes in my life then, let me go back to my usual prayer of satisfaction, humility and patience.

These I ask in the name of Jesus.

Amen.

There. May my agitation and restlessness be taken away now.

Back in Bangkok

2007-11-18T17:06:00.000+08:00

O yun lang.

Regional meeting.

uhmmmm deedum deeeeduuummm (while drumming my fingers on the table). Huwhaaatt a bore, as usual.

Ang Angking Katangahan ng mga Pinoy

2007-11-07T07:45:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, I had my car maintained, for it’s already due for an oil change and timing belt replacement. And so I went to my “I-thought-I-trust-him” mechanic and relayed to him the different fixes the car needs. I saved him time and money because I bought the parts myself already.

Stupid Service Experience 1:
So the day went by and as I went home to check the car, the aircon was BROKEN!!! The whatever part is not working because the aircon is not cooling at all. In fact, I had a similar repair (yeah my car is like almost 10 years old already), some 25,000 kms ago or 2 years ago from another talyer. And so I called Mr. Benny, my mechanic, and ask what happened to the aircon in the most diplomatic and inquiring way I can (the fume was actually blowing off my nostrils as I was talking to him, but had to contain my anger and frustration over a relatively poor service he had given me). But, babaan ba ako ng telepono! And sorry, the phone was not in service anymore after I hit the redial button.

Stupid Service Experience 2:
A similar fate happened to me when I had the car repainted, since it needed a washover already for that glossy, flossy, flossy look. I had the service from another talyer near where I live. After almost a month, I got my car back with so many minor additional repairs because the work was not satisfactory. And to add to the problem, the car’s alarm was damaged and they would not even change the alarm for free when in fact it broke because of them. The alarm was in pristine condition when I brought the car to them. Oh well, charged it to experience, so to speak, and will I never go back to have my car fixed there ever again.

In retrospect, and with other similar experiences by my friends and other family members, it made me think: talaga bang wala sa mga Pinoy ang CUSTOMER-ORIENTED QUALITY SERVICE?

In our society, normally, the businessmen offering services are king, not the customer, mind you. All the customer can do is to shift to another service provider. Para bang ikaw pa ang hahalik sa puwet para lang pagsilbihan ka ng maayos, para sa serbisyong binayaran mo nang buung-buo.

Stupid Service Experience 3:
A similar situation was my experience with SmartBro. Even with your many complaints regarding their service, still there was no improvement whatsoever. So the choice was easy, shift to another provider.

In this age of stiffer competition and globalization, why is it that there are still so many Filipino businessmen apathetic to good, quality and customer oriented service? When in fact in the consumer goods type of business, consumers drive heavily the industry, proven by the many clinical and market research data being generated and spent on just to determine what will make the consumer buy, the service-oriented business lags behind in terms of truly serving the needs of the consumers.

I do hope that these businesses that provide poor service PERISH and hopefully the one that will stay in the competition can really provide the service worth our money. I guess, one would rather pay extra for a service that is within a certain set of standard, rather than save on a bit of peso and yet experience tremendous headache and more spending due to stupid services such as what I had.

Kasi naman, maling pagititpid!

Yan ang tunay na katangahan ng mga Pinoy.

Malimit nating pinagtitiyagaan ang mga pipichugin at kachakahan na mga produkto at serbisyong binibigay ng mga taong hindi propesyonal o kaya naman ay di man lang nakagraduate ng high school. Dapat ‘di natin hinahayaang dumami ang mga tao at establisimyentong ito upang mapilitan silang pagbutihin lalo ang kanilang trabaho nang wala na tayong reklamo.

Mabuti nang gumastos ng medyo malaki ngayon, kung di ka naman gagastos sa mahabang panahon.

Nawa’y magsilbing aral ito sa mga mamimili na gaya ko at nawa’y maudyok ang mga Pinoy na mag-demand ng mas mapagkakatiwalaang produkto at serbisyo.

Nawa’y mas maging reklamador tayo laban sa mga kacheapanggahang ito!!!!

Shet! Nyeta!

Ulirang Application Specialist

2007-11-06T06:14:00.000+08:00

Yes, I am again back to my normal work - APPLICATION SPECIALIST or in short apply-apply na naman sa mga bagong jobs here and abroad. Actually dapat MANAGER na ako noh. Sa loob ng 6 na taong pagtatrabaho, 5 trabaho na ang pinasukan ko, not to mention yung business-businessang inaatupag ko, e parang taun-taon e nagbabago ang hilatsa ng aking money-making activities.

Well, marami akong balak:

OPTION 1. Gora sa Timbuktu, Seychelles, Cayman Island or anywhere else basta malayo. Syempre wag lang sa Africa kung saan kaliwa't kanan ang kidnapping ng mga Pinoy

OPTION 2. Gora sa Bangkok at itaguyod ang paghahanap ng trabaho kasama sina pudraz at mudraz. Hmmmm pero parang di ko alam kung ano ang gagawin ko dun

OPTION 3. Gora ng US. Hmmm parang wag na lang. Kawawa naman ang kapatid at walang buhay sa Idaho. Although, why not try Alaska, (MAS WALANG BUHAY!)

OPTION 4. Mag-focus sa business-businessan at go to more business expansion. Why not try ang wholesale anyways ang mga barkadings naman ay may tiangge galore sa QC at Greenhills or try nating maging puta sa barrio (WHY NOT?!)

OPTION 5. Fly to the province, wherever province, buy lupa, buy dagat, go farming and go mangyanan effect of fishing and stuff like that. (Hmmm since forever naman akong nasa karagatan at kanayunan lately, why not gawing bagsakan ng wholesale na mga RTW at PX goods? hmmmmmmm)

OPTION 6. Ask ang hombreng boss(abos) for more training para maging perfumer! AT sa PRANSYA itey! YES! PERFUMER! Konti pa lang naman ang perfumer na Pinoy and why not be one of the few!?!?!?! (HMMMMM kung kire ng boss(abos) ko, but I doubt. Tumangos na ang ilong ko e andito pa rin ako sa kinauupuan ko kung saan ginagawa ko ang entry na ito)

OPTION 7. Mag gora sa Vietnam, Laos, Bangladesh o Myanmar at magpalabuy-laboy hanggang sa makahanap ng matinong trabaho (scary,aminin, but hmmmm parang ang saya ng adventure, aminin mo teh)

Ay ewan, balik sa katotohanan. pakshet

Brent Middle School's Beauty and The Beast

2007-10-23T09:28:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, I went to Brent in Mamplasan to watch the middle school's version of Linda Woolverton's Beauty and the Beast. Thanks to Ericson, who was the traffic controller, I and Ate Nora were given free tickets for the play.

The play was cool. The props were extravagant and I just love Mrs. Potts and Cogsworth and the "Be My Guest" part. I just love the dancing spoons and cups and saucers. Really nice costumes.

And Beast, played by Taj Pereira, was so hooooot Imagine at 13, he really is hot.

And all of them were in the middle school still, so it was great. Kudos to the Directors and the rest of the people behind the scenes.

Belle, played by Cristina (I think that is her name) Uy was so great in the singing and the acting part. Well, after all it was a musical. And let's not forget Maurice, the father of Belle (I smell green blood actually). But he was pretty funny. And some of the bloopers were so hilarious that even the actors in the play were not able to hold their laughs.

I am looking forward to the upper school's play next year.

Tax Churvas

2007-10-07T09:45:00.000+08:00

Eversince I started this young enterprise, it has been a monthly thing for me to remit my taxes. Well, kudos to BIR, they have online filing and payment, so everything is just at the tip of my finger, as the cliche would put it. While I may only be computing taxes for at least a few ten thousands, I can no longer imagine filing should my sales hit more than a million a month (of course, I am very positive about this thing, ok?).

Anyways, I find it a little complicated up till now. However, I am still not yet availing of a bookeeper for the ledger thing, which I would think about before the year ends, which is, what, less than 12 weeks as I type this.

Grrrrr..... Oh well, being the responsible citizen that I am, I just do not want any mishaps occuring with my dealings with the government. Scared kaya ako makulong (images of Wentworth Miller of Prison Break, oggling......gllglglglll)

Newfound Appreciation

2007-10-05T16:29:00.000+08:00

Yes! I love AM RADIO RIGHT NOW!!!!!

I love the conversations and the nasty comments. Not to mention the opinion of the newscasters and the remarks that are both intelligent and stupid at the same time. Even the jokes they crack and also the way they would adlibs the greetings are just greeeeaaaaatttt!

They really perk me up after a stressful daily work!!!

Love it!!!

But I can only listen to Anthony Taberna and his partner (sorry forgot the name while typing this), that Doctor something-something and his co-host talking about health (but more of the products from MyMarvel Taheebo, etc.), and of course the simulcast of TV Patrol over at 630khz.

It is definitely a fun, informative and light way of listening to the radio.

Sometimes People Do The Most Stupid Things

2007-10-05T05:39:00.000+08:00

And so be it.....

Unless it's in your position to change them and it would do more good than harm.

Otherwise, shut-up, close book and move on.

I am A Sinner

2007-09-26T09:08:00.000+08:00

My office friend and I were discussing on new teleseryes on TV, Lastikman and Zaido (The Bakat Men) to be exact, and she pointed out that Lastikman was good in its way because, apparently, some of the kontrabidas are patterned after the seven deadly sin.

Sure enough, we started googling for the seven deadly sin because we forgot what sloth is and that we can only remember lust as one of them, and gluttony, of course, and thanks to Wikipedia, here are your seven deadly sins:

Gluttony
Lust
Sloth
Wrath
Envy
Pride
Greed

ME: Shet, 4 yung sa akin. I am such a sinner.

My friend: Shet ako 6. Gluttony lang yung wala ako.

Diplomatic Hate Letter No. 1

2007-09-25T05:26:00.000+08:00

25 September 2007

Dear _____:

I have requested this meeting with you to tell you some things that I am kind of uncomfortable with. I have recently read a newspaper article, from an author who believes the Gospel and applies the learnings in everyday living. And part of her solution, when talking to someone higher than you, to put it in writing so as to guide you to say the right words without being sarcastic or rude, thereby offending the person you are addressing. Thus, this letter to guide me for our meeting in the coming weeks.

Let me start by saying that one of my living pillars is integrity. I value it because I believe that for people to trust you, or at least, believe in you, you have to mean what you say and say what you mean. Especially in our relationship, I am not comfortable reading between the lines and understanding only the meaning when you have already effected what you (did not) said when we talk about certain issues regarding our daily co-existence.

For me to be effective, I also want to trust the people above me because, after all, my plight will be somehow dependent on how they will take us around. In my opinion, an environment filled with sarcasm, disbelief, doubts, and fears are not very conducive for healthy relationships. When everything is filled with hate, double-meanings, BS's and treating people as if they were lower life forms, everyday life becomes more challenging and stressful.

I am also not comfortable with favoritism. I have heard stories from the people involved with cases that would prove this observation and somehow I find it not really fair, especially for the people directly involved. And it only scares me more, thinking that one word against us by the favorite may mean our demisse, even if we are performing much better. I do not also like the way the favorite getting away with a lot of things when it would mean higher cost, bigger expenses, when if looking at the figures, the income is going down because the favorite is not really doing well.

I am a team player, a strong team player. I decide based on inputs from the team members. I trust the members to put the welfare and well-being of the team first before his own, the way I would do for them. I do not want to jeopardize the team in exchange for my welfare. I am not doing that. I hope you can guide us more, being our team captain, and enable us to enjoin our differences and make a great team out of each of the member. But looking at the current situation, I feel that the growing competition among the members are tearing us apart and I feel that the war can only be halted by you. But so far, the competition is getting more intense.

It has seriously crossed my mind to just pack away and leave, but I know there are things still unfinished and that the challenges are too big to just let go. Before, surrendering is very easy. But now, I take the challenge like a man, an adult and mature man. After all, the fruits of hardwork, patience and compassion are just there for the picking, though the fruits are not yet ripe.

Thank you very much.

Sincerely yours,
Rafael Ryan Feliciano

I am A Hater

2007-09-24T14:06:00.000+08:00

I am now officially a Hater! Yes, a true-blue, red-blooded hater and not to mention a diplomatic hater. Hahehe.

Hate Situation No. 1:
Me: And also, next time, please consult me before any changes are effected on any of
the projects. Kasi, all of the descriptions were based on facts and information read
and understood by me. Kaya nga marketing ako e. (and playing in my mind - mga
leche kasi nagmamarunong, wala namang alam, feeler kayo kasi e. the!)
All: Ok!

Hate Situation No. 2:
Client: And can you also do me a favor by making a market research on the highly
preferred fragrances blah...blah...blah...blah,,,, blah
Me: Yeah sure (with a poker face and a whole set of neurons saying: fuck up you crazy
little twerp. Paayos ka na lang ng face mo! Masahol pa sa EDSA ang surface e)

Hate Situation No. 3:
(In a restaurant)
Food Server: Hello sir, sige masarap po yang mga crepes namin (and I swear I saw
the beautiful eyes - eeeewwwww)
Me: Ok thanks. That is so nice (don't go near my crepe you dumbwit!)

Wine Festival 2007

2007-09-23T11:03:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, we, Ericson, Wilber, Jeff and I together with some lovely Brent teachers, went to Rockwell Mall and had the best time of our lives!!! Imagine having to drink wine and eat all afternoon long!!!! All those cabernet sauvignons, merlots, champagnes, ginger beer, apple ciders, shiraz, chardonnays from the best vineyards around the world - from South Africa to Australia to France and Italy, not to mention the long lists of food merchants such as Renaissance Hotel, French Corner, Gourdo's, People's Palace!!!!

Gawd it was such a feast, for only a whopping P500 only!!!!

We were there from 2:30pm to closing (around 8pm) and was just drinking wine and eating some nice foods and listening to whatever they can say about these alcoholic beverages. From sweet wines, to those dry and very smooth ones, all I can say is what a wine-y moment!!!!!

And everybody was just so plain funny. Not to mention the valley girls Karen and WIlber!!!!!! Hahehehe. Plus, yeah, there were the actively seeking lovely ladies - Cristina, Kelly and Cathy!!! Oh I just love these girls. Lucky for them because they were able to "get to know" new alphamales out there. Hehehe.

Then afterwards, we had some margaritas and some beer to cap the night off.

Jeff was such a sport. Even though he is straight (and yeah really straight and available and currently looking for a date), he went out with us and had fun. We should have gone to Piedra's at the Fort but stupid him, wore sandals. So in short, di siya nakasayaw, nakampambabae at nakainom further!!!

Till the next wine festival!!!!!

The Thing That Matters A Lot More

2007-09-19T12:54:00.000+08:00

In a life of a jaded, negative person, nuisances, new pet peeves and irritations commonly occur. These are either reflections of your misjudgments or mistakes or that some people are just plain stupid or antagonistic to your existence.

I choose people. I choose them based on chemistry. I do not care whether you are a self-proclaimed whore or a slutty girl in a nun's mantle or a devoted religious person, so long as we can talk about a lot of things and you amuse me and you are a good audience to me and vice versa, then we can have an entire day talking endlessly. But the people I normally end up with are at the other side of the spectrum.

I respect differences. And I am proud to admit that even though one's living clearly violate or is different from my values and principles, I have no problem relating with them personally or professionally. But sometimes, the energy to put up a front is just too draining. You can call it hyprocrisy or plastic or whatever, but it's my way of understanding the differences, enjoining them and learning to keep an open mind. It helps me put their shoes on and walk their talks and talk their walks. It helps me be less judgmental and recognize the diversity we live in.

But it's just damn draining.

I am no cool guy, neither am I popular nor the amiable, pleasant type. I can be really annoying and sarcastic if I want to point something out. I can use jokes to transcend to their brains my points. I can be philosophical and rhetorical and can be also plain stupid and ignorant at the same time.

But when there are just too many violations in my book, I just can't figure out where to get the energy needed to deal with them. We can choose not to deal anymore and simply leave, but life becomes much harder if we move all the time. We will never learn from always running away and choosing an easier path. After all, more or less, you consume and expend the same energy for both running away and dealing.

I guess, it's just one of those days when the easiest solution is to leave.

I hope the decision to put up a good fight will give more valuable lessons than to just leave.

Fragrance Oils for Sale

2007-09-12T04:56:00.000+08:00

Selling fragrance oils for the following product application:

Colognes and EDT
Personal care products (soaps, lotions, facial washes, etc.)
Household products (detergent, fabric conditioners, etc.)
Air care products (candles, air spray, potpurri, etc.)

For those who are interested, you may get in touch with me at 09189268539 / 09226439950

Perfect giveaways and gifts for the coming Christmas!!!

MInimum order is 1kg.

Fragrace

2007-09-12T04:44:00.000+08:00

Fragrance Oils for Sale

2007-09-12T04:42:00.000+08:00

I am selling fragrance oils for the following products:

Colognes and EDT
Personal Care Products (Soaps, lotions, washes, etc.)
Household Products (detergents, floor cleaner, fabric conditioners, etc.)

Minimum Order is 1kg

Place your order now!

For more information, please drop me a line 09189268539 / 09226439950

Heaven Under the Rain

2007-08-16T06:03:00.000+08:00

malt drink + ginger powder + coffee + full cream milk + cinnamon =

hot and spicy choco cappuccino

Hot Stuff for 2008 and Beyond

2007-08-15T05:59:00.000+08:00

Some prediction in the skin care arena, that may happen here in the Philippines based on recent readings from Euromonitor, Happy, some in-house insights and analysis and other Internet websites:

Cosmeceuticals vs. Naturals
While we've seen some natural-based or natural-inspired skin care products in the market, the consumers are in the look out, especially the results-driven type of consumers, some pharma/derma brands are likely to become stronger. Thanks to the recently launched Belo Essentials from Belo Medicals (represented by Intelligent Skin Care, Inc.), cosmeceutical products will likely flourish next year. Cosmeceuticals, according to Wikipedia.Org, are cosmetic products that are claimed, primarily by those within the cosmetic industry, to have drug-like benefits. We will definitely see more launches on these segment as I know people in the industry launching several "cosmeceutical" products.

However, the Naturals and the Organic type of products will continue to be a marketing claim, in so far as formulation and regulations are concerned. The BFAD does not have any clear regulations yet or standards regarding these type of products similar to France's EcoCert, which certifies whether a certain product is natural and/or organic.

We have seen some "naturals", "natural-based" and "natural-inspired" products, but are they really natural? Well, the label should tell a lot. So start reading and investigating on the ingredients and what do they really put in the formulation. A little tip, if it contains some scientific names of plants and are usually put after water or are written first, then these materials were definitely used in a substantial amount.

Although a lot of formulators are crying over the demand for naturals as the integrity of the formulation maybe jeopardized, especially with preservatives that may be natural but do not work as good as the usual chemical preservative systems in the market today.

Men's Grooming
We have seen already some launches since the early 2000s of male brands and even before that, i.e. Master from Eskinol (Sara Lee brand), Tricks from Splash and Gillette from P&G, but we will see more sophisticated men's grooming products in the coming months and years. With the ever dyanmic niche buidling of local companies and even the multinationals, segmentation within the male market will likely rise. Segmentation driving the innovation process and market development, we will be seeing more sophisticated, on the one hand, and much simpler, on the other, products specifically formulated for men - from hair care to bath and shower products and even cosmetics, and for different skin type and for specific skin problems, the male market is surely about to witness an avalanche of products.

Well it'd better start right now, otherwise, Filipino males will be left behind by other Asian countries. Who would want our guys to forever look like dugyutin?

The key to this trend: EDUCATION AND AWARENESS. While there may be a lot of products for men, they have not yet understood the benefits or how these products are used or least, they have not yet developed a good hygiene habit, except for the usual soap-shampoo-loofah beauty regimen. They may not know yet the difference between a soap and a body gel, a body soap from a facial wash and why do you have to use lotions/creams. Sad! That's why the Fab 5 had a career because of these dirty men.

Segmentation
Strong segmentation is likely to develop further in the Philippines. Given the trends outside our national boundaries, segmentation shall be driving innovation in targeting specific market, needs or lifestyle.

Segmentation may be done according to demographics (age, gender, income, etc.), lifestyle (active, sedentary, party, sports, professionals), geographical (ehtnicity, location, time of day), or skin types (acneic, dark, etc.). But according to Euromonitor and Happi Magazine, days of segmentation by demographics is over. LIfestyle-based segmentation is more important. They were arguing that even the teens are using baby products, that 50s ladies are using products for women in 30s and vice versa, even some men using women products. The likely market segments that are underserved right now are the tweens, teens, the professionals, sports people, call center and other BPO employees, and other new market that emerged and are emerging with the changes brought by globalization, environmental degradation and economic boom.

More and more people right now are quite specific and knowledgeable of the products that they need for their skin. And more are willing to try new things since they have relatively more money to burn than before. Given these, innovation will definitely flourish and commoditizing niche markets will definitely be big for manufacturers.

Product Efficacy and Safety
However, markets nowadays are more distrustful and unloyal to any particular brand or product. Efficacy and safety are the topmost priority. While, definitely price is a major concern, consumers are more willing to pay more for products that can delivery results effectively and at a much faster rate, without the harsh irritation.

Regulation and the government plays an important role in the lookout for effective and safe products. Come ASEAN Harmonization in regulatory standards among ASEAN countries in 2008, the onslaught of imported brands and products from other ASEAN countries will threaten local manufacturing companies. The free trade, however, opens to a lot bigger market, around more than a billion, and more opportunities will there be to capture a sizeable chunk of the market. Thus, quality is very important and product positioning and imagery are likely to differentiate one product from the other.

Price Matters
Price still matters. It is important to note that the ASEAN market and the Philippines, in particular, lower-income group is bigger than the middle- and upper-income groups. In this regard, price may stifle innovation and research because of very miniscule margin put on products. We might expect some "me-too" products still that may cripple more innovation and better products and quality.

With this, the rise of MASSTIGE PRODUCTS, products that have prestige image and luxurious benefits at a price afforded by the market. It is important to note here that eventhough price is important, you can still offer great products without sacrificing quality and aspirational benefits.

Ethnic Products
It is also believed, that the globalization has diluted national identity, with the lack of products that we can call ours and are intended for us and our local skin. In line with this, it can be expected that traditional and customary Filipino practices shall be incorporated in the skin care products. It may be in the form of ingredients, i.e. gugo, tawas, in the form of habits, i.e. bayanihan, family bonding, humility, etc. or religion even, cosmetics that you can wear without being too flashy. Or inspiration may even come from customary tribal traditions in skin and hair care.

This shall give us a sense of pride and an authentic and unique value proposition that will definitely give us an edge, similar to Thai massage or the lotus flower , etc.

Stronger Distribution
It can be noted that the tertiary distribution will likely provide more volume growth for the industry. Thus, packaging plays an important role. Convenience shall also dictate where these products may be available - stand-alones, specialty stores, even sari-sari stores.

Department stores and supermarkets will likely still be big, but may decrease in the next few years will growing innovation in retailing and merchandising. After all, we have not seen a "sari-sari" store that is not yet specialized in terms of product offering. Why not a neighborhood Watsons or Beauty Bar? The thing is, convenience plays a role in buying products. Why would a person queu in a supermarket or find and pay a parking for a product that he/she can easily buy in a sari-sari store? Unless, they are buying in bulk or in bigger packaging.

Packaging
Convenience, distribution, DIY and at-spa products will likely define what a packaging should look like. Value proposition can even come from packaging and depending on the target market, distribution and brand image, the packaging plays a very important role.