Great 3-in-1 Coffee with a Perfect Blend

Rarely you find some product from the past that will just find its way back in the grocery shelf. Blend 45. I remember the Susan Roces commercial about this back in the 80s. I remember how plump and good those morning dew moistened coffee "cherry" fruits were being hand picked and turned in coffee from it's coffee "seeds." It was one beverage that I liked best to try when I was a kid. No kidding.

Fast forward. I was pleasantly surprised that Universal Robina Corporation took the chance to revive the product. Why? I never tried Blend 45. I was always eyeing this Yellow, Red, and Brown product off the grocery shelf but my mom would always get Nescafé. Drats. I finally had the chance right now - tall and mature - to actually try it. I bought the 3-in-1 Instant Coffee sachets and went home happy. 

Breakfast was usually Kopiko Coffee for me. I didn't like the Nescafé taste. I just got used to it but one morning, my wife, brought out this coffee that got my taste buds excited. I asked her if she brewed coffee or something. No, it's Blend 45 she said and this got me more excited. It's got that taste that - if you like Nescafé - will get you more excited because of the indescribable aroma that I can't love more. I now have a coffee I can call my own and it's Blend 45. It even cost less than Nescafé and Kopiko because I think it's introducing itself again in the market. It's less than 4 pesos. Why don't you try it.

Image Credit: Vintage Blend 45 ad: 4.bp.blogspot.com

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Everything Customers

Was Lotto manipulated back in the days?

(Mandaluyong) IN THEORY there would be more people betting on the lotto prize of more than Php500,000,000.00 today but interestingly no one has won it yet. In comparison, I was told that during President Arroyo's time Malacañang Palace officials would win it more than one time. How true is this? If this is true, did PCSO had itself used for the wrong purpose? I'm researching this right now and it would be a heinous crime to fool the citizens of this nation. Just a (creepy) thought.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Mabuhay, new 2010 CNN Woman Hero!

(Mandaluyong) A WOMAN who rescued and rehabilitated more than 10,000 young girls from sex slavery received CNN's 2010 Heroes Award after eight weeks of online voting by the public. Anuradha Koirala saved young women from sex brothels in the Nepal-India border child trafficking is rampant. "Human trafficking is a crime, a heinous crime, a shame to humanity," Koirala said after she was introduced in the recently concluded awarding ceremony. 

Her dangerous work started in 1993 and it birthed the Maiti Nepal foundation that rehabilitated a lot of young girls who were victims of this crime. Demi Moore, who along with his husband, Ashton Kutcher, said that her organization, "provided more than a shelter for these girls and young women, she has created a home. It is a place for them to heal, go to school, learn a skill, and for some who are infected with HIV/AIDS, it is the place where they can spend their days surrounded by love." 

She and the rest of the nominated Heroes for 2010 deserves the Mabuhay praise for her outstanding work and achievement that should be emulated more and more by the next generation.

To be involved in curbing and eventually eliminating Child Trafficking, I encourage you to visit Koirala's Foundation, the Maiti Nepal, and also get to know more one how to get yourself involved in SCTNow (Stop Child Trafficking Now) a foundation of Christians who are working to stop this kind of crime.

Click this CNN Heroes story link to know more about this heart-warming and encouraging story of our new CNN Hero.

Acknowledgement: CNN, John Shearer of wireimage.com for Efren and Koirala's photos

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Posted via email from Mabuhay

"Daddy. . .are you okay?"

My left foot stepped on a slope of a curb on my way to get our car to attend a church seminar on parenting. It was embarrassing. I literally collapsed in view of about twenty tricycle drivers converged on the other side of the road and a bunch of beauty parlor clients behind me who probably saw everything. It was painful. Not my pride - it's the farthest thing from my mind. I quickly recovered and was able to come into a one leg kneeling position waiting for the numbing pain to subside. A good minute passed then I stood up to walk, injured but walking - albeit slowly and painfully still.

I continued walking to my car, which is about a good 30 yards away. Ack! Eck! Argh! I thought to myself as neighbors cautiously ask me what happened. Each step was excruciating. I smiled and said, "natapilok ako."

Night time. Malou helped prepare a bucket full of ice and water and dipped my swelling left foot in it. "Aaaaaa!" It was more painful. I couldn't believe how painful it was. At this, my one year and eleven months old son, Kye, came and started rubbing my legs as I lay on our couch. With his innocent voice he ask me, "Daddy. . .are you okay?" It was still very painful - mind you - but I was amazed at how concerned he was. He understands. I couldn't care less what happened to me now when your son who, at his very, very young age, know that his dad is not okay and he was showing that much care.

Day two. It's Sunday morning and I wrote this piece in honor of God who taught me to teach and demonstrate love that I am now getting from my son. I never wrote anything about my fatherhood (which was one of the main purpose of this blog) experiences. I blinked and now here. I'm glad I blinked. It's was one of those moments that you would like to read over and over as time passes by. 

My son. I love my son. Thank you God.

Posted via email from Born 1973

What?! 'Pink' Lucky Me! Noodles?

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While doing my stock replenishment at a nearby supermarket, I chanced upon a very odd-looking product that caught my attention. It's pink and it's squeezed in the middle of the Lucky Me! Noodles section. I took it and discovered, it's Lucky Me!'s new product called, "Pork Ribs." Hahaha. I was not amused by the flavor but by the radical way Monde Nissin colored their new instant noodle invention. We always know that red and orange is the most attractive way to associate your product with food but pink? What gives? 

 

I researched the product online and it was so new, it's not even in Lucky Me!'s product page. Anyway, I bought five and placed it on my store's shelf. 

 

Cooling Station will always be carrying new, interesting, and tasty products that customers can try. It will be a good addition to the store's market that devours instant noodle soups and canton variants like there's no tomorrow. Hahaha. Let's see how they will react to a new pink noodle soup.  

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Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Nescafe's Brown N' Creamy is out

Nescafe recently released its new three-in-one coffee products in the market called, Nescafe Brown N' Creamy 3-in-1 coffee. It is an apparent response to Kopiko's Brown Coffee and the market's growing taste and preference for coffee that has the "brown sugar" taste.

It's not as sweet and not as creamy, unfortunately. Kopiko Brown's Coffee is creamier and a smoother feel to it. Nescafe's is not like that and it's not good when the product claims to be creamy when it's actually not. But of course, that's me. Kopiko's edge is that it got out first, and it became the standard for this variant of three-in-one coffees. You have to have love for Nescafe to actually like this product. My verdict out of five stars? It's two stars only. But if you're a Nescafe loyalist and want to try this product, go check it out at Cooling Station. The product retails for Php6/sachet but we had to sell it at Php7.

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Complete meal and advice website for Diabetics

Are you afflicted with diabetes? Do you know anyone who has it? If you want to help, refer them this website called Diabetic Gourmet. It has advice and tips you need to help them live a better life. It also gives valuable information for those who need to know more about diabetes. You don't need to second guess on how to help yourself and those you love. 

But the best part about this site is that it provides a book-full of recipes that doesn't apologize for the flavors it promises to make meal time a great time for diabetics. Check Diabetic Gourmet now and don't forget to bookmark it. Watch out for more related food finds and reviews as we unearth valuable information for you. Click Cooling Station to find where we are today.

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Five (absurd) Thoughts Should 'P-Noy' Get Excommunicated

Let's say the Roman Catholic church continues with its excommunication of the president, what would happen next? Below are five thoughts (serious and farcical) that proves this move is counter-productive:

1. The church will be in danger of becoming irrelevant - At the end of the day, the government will continue to function and the president can convert to another Jesus-centered denomination? Will the government disenfranchise the Roman Catholic church? Interesting.

2. Jesus never excommunicated - Though the bible hinted on excluding a person out of the body of Christ, Jesus never said a message that a sinner can never repent and be part of the church once again. Did Jesus ever send fireballs from heaven to kill the Pharisees and those who condemned him? He teaches us to love our enemies right?

3. Excommunication is just on paper - The word means to suspend or to be deprived or to be out of communion. What does the Roman Catholic faith mean by this? It's just a paper. The person can just move on with his life and still believe in Jesus.

4. The Roman Catholic church will be sending the wrong signal - The church will cast fear on its members and it will be counter-productive. It could even mean excommunicating majority of its members. Why? Who follows the teachings the Roman Catholics give faithfully?  Lately, there are twenty-one incidents of excommunication in the 21st Century alone. See if the following things fall under the society's category.

5. We'll be included in the Guinness World Records (again!) for the first president to ever get excommunicated while in office.

So will excommunication ever prosper in light of this situation with the Philippines' birth control? I don't agree with abortion as well but I agree to President Aquino's point that the husband-and-wife should decide on matters like this. The only danger here is if the Roman Catholic church never taught its laity on the best possible decision that they will never regret. Abstention may be good but to stop short of telling them why is not progressive. Now, teaching faith that God will provide the kids' and parents' needs are best option to go. It's now up to the parents to decide for themselves but yes, never abort a kid when it's conceived.

If you want to know my initial thoughts about this whole deal between the government and the Roman Catholic church when the news became big, read it here.

Photo Credits: Pope, President Aquino

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Would Excommunicating The President Solve Rising Population?

By now, the government is bent in curbing the rising population that it believes contributes to the poverty of this nation. On the clergy side, it's the issue of abortion that they go against. So what can anybody do about this situation? 

I think the Roman Catholic church is missing the point in this matter. It is the duty of the government to impose laws that will help the state deal with economic issues. It may not be the proverbial silver bullet that will end poverty - the government knows that - but it will be doing something to give the choice directly in the hands of the laity. The church on the other hand has the golden opportunity to reveal the message of faith and grace to which the gospel clearly says about such problems we face as a society. The church is not doing enough, however, and this is causing much support to the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) bill.

So what if the church excommunicated the president? Would that change the scenario? It's one bullying tactic after another between the government and the Roman Catholic church and this does not solve anything.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Why is the RP Hostage-Taking, 83-Page Report only 59 Pages?

Curious how extensive and fast the investigation of the August 23 bungled hostage rescue drama, I downloaded a copy of the IIRC-prepared report and I immediately noticed that it only contained 59 pages out of the supposed 83-page report promised. What happened to the other 24 pages? What does it contain? I ask because the Aquino-led government is saying that it is promoting transparency, which I appreciate. But if they're going to promote transparency, why weren't there news about the missing 24 pages that the public needs to know? Why isn't the media pursuing this angle? Frustrating how our media is not thorough in shedding light in simple observations like this.

Posted via email from Born 1973

Lawmaker's bill shows RP's desperation in basketball

“The 15th Congress has a unique opportunity to make a concrete contribution to our efforts to regain lost glory in international competitions,'' said Puno.

via sports.inquirer.net

A congressman from Antipolo, Rizal filed a bill and attempt to make two foreign basketball athletes become Filipinos. The move is legit and there probably aren't any laws to bar the said legislator from doing what he did. If the law is passed and we become champions, he is definitely putting every Filipinos dream to capture the crown a reality. But he is also causing a dent to capture the crown legitimately. Here's why: (1) We're sending a signal that we really can't do it (win the basketball crown in Asia) without these foreigners - great as they are; (2) The congressman is showing a bad example to children that if you can't win it - you can change the rules - as you please; (3) It will show the world that we win contests by technicalities (FIBA rules), using loopholes to win contests.

What kind of culture are we teaching kids who are playing sports? What kind of culture are we teaching our children by passing House Bill No. 2307?

To describe my utter disgust with this lawmaker's reason for filing this bill, here's what he commented to the media, "The 15th Congress has a unique opportunity to make a concrete contribution to our efforts to regain lost glory in international competitions."

Frankly, congressman, I'm not desperate to giveaway passports in exchange for trophies and "lost glory." If you're Filipino - you're Filipino. Period.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

What’s common between Captain Mendoza and Venus Raj?

 “Mean what you say and say what you mean.”

The biggest blunder the recent “Major, major” twin tragedies (excuse me for bringing this up again but it’s a must) that happened in the hostage-taking drama and Ms. Universe were all about miscommunication. You can never be wrong in taking communication for granted.

If the dismissed Captain Mendoza were true to his heart to say that he will not hurt his hostages, he may still live up to his family's honor. If Venus Raj (Ms. Philippines) humbly used a translator to answer her question and not be purely overwhelmed by the emotions of the pageant, she wouldn’t be finishing 4^th runner up in the recent 2010 Ms. Universe pageant.

“Ask,” I always tell people when they’re not sure of what they’re observing because through more information, you can never go wrong. Using the right communication, we will avoid fights, quarrels, and God forbid – death and yes, 4^th runner up finishes.

If you want to improve your communication, read this article and improve your skills keeping peace wherever you work and live. The article headlines ten things you should never forget when talking to anybody. If you are one that gets a lot of complaints when people talk to you, this article is for you.

Posted via email from Born 1973

2010 Emmys recognizes Filipino illustrator

See and download the full gallery on posterous

We're raking it in. US-based Filipino Illustrator Joseph 'Joe' Andrew Mateo, 38, won an accolade most of us (especially artists) would only dream of - winning the Emmys. Joseph has been featured so many times in the past by several media outfits showcasing his journey from his mediocre artist life to the most-renowned illustrator artist that he became known to be today.

Mateo won the Emmys for the upcoming Pixar-Disney produced made-for-TV feature-length animation, "Prep and Landing." If you've watched any Pixar movie before like Toy Story, The Incredibles, and Up, then you wouldn't be a stranger to this newest offering. It's funny, full of humor, and all the sensibilities of a Disney movie. Mateo's career of fifteen years in Disney is definitely bearing more fruit than he could ever imagine. It's giving a lot of local artist in the country hopes and dreams to hone their craft and be given that chance for recognition. To see some of his works, watch Prep and Landing's behind the scenes here.

Congratulations, Joe and mabuhay!

Read more articles about Joe Mateo here:
Philippine Star (June 3, 2007)
GMA TV
IMDB

Watch the trailer here:

Disney's Prep and Landing website

 

Photos by: Disney.com

Posted via email from Mabuhay

2010 Emmys recognizes Filipino illustrator

See and download the full gallery on posterous

We're raking it in. US-based Filipino Illustrator Joseph 'Joe' Andrew Mateo, 38, won an accolade most of us (especially artists) would only dream of - winning the Emmys. Joseph has been featured so many times in the past by several media outfits showcasing his journey from his mediocre artist life to the most-renowned illustrator artist that he became known to be today.

Mateo won the Emmys for the upcoming Pixar-Disney produced made-for-TV feature-length animation, "Prep and Landing." If you've watched any Pixar movie before like Toy Story, The Incredibles, and Up, then you wouldn't be a stranger to this newest offering. It's funny, full of humor, and all the sensibilities of a Disney movie. Mateo's career of fifteen years in Disney is definitely bearing more fruit than he could ever imagine. It's giving a lot of local artist in the country hopes and dreams to hone their craft and be given that chance for recognition. To see some of his works, watch Prep and Landing's behind the scenes here.

Congratulations, Joe and mabuhay!

Read more articles about Joe Mateo here:
Philippine Star (June 3, 2007)
GMA TV
IMDB

Watch the trailer here:

Disney's Prep and Landing website

 

Photos by: Disney.com

Posted via email from Mabuhay

Filipina named California Chief Justice

via youtube.com

If in case you haven't heard yet, another Filipina (and the very first Filipino at that) made me proud again a day after another Filipina took the 4th place title of Ms. Universe. This proud daughter of The Philippines stepped on to become the Chief Justice position of the state of California, Court of Appeals Associate Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye. Cantil-Sakauye was handpicked by Governor Schwarzenegger for her ability "to independently and fairly interpret and administer the law." Her conservative roots started when she took law in UC Davis and served as deputy District Attorney in Sacramento County. Before becoming an Associate Justice of the Third District Court of Appeals, she was the superior court judge and municipal court judge, serving in each position for seven years.

You can watch the confirmation happen, even honoring her Filipino roots, in a second-generation recording of this event with Philippine News.

From me and from everyone, Hon. Cantil-Sakauye, mabuhay and congratulations as you become one of the many people who make this nation proud.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

Eight shallow questions about last night's hostage drama

Nothing will justify what former policeman Rolando Mendoza did last night to make the public take his side but what is more troubling is how the police did their job. Obviously, the police did not do a stellar performance in saving more lives or avoiding bloodshed during the drama and this brings forth a lot of questions what should have or shouldn't have happened. This goes the same with the media coverage: Did the presence of media hampered the effectiveness of the police operation? We just don't know. I'm posting some of those questions below to open discussion and learn valuable lessons from this as a concerned citizen of this nation. This will educate us and give us a broader understanding about the unfortunate incident that took place last night.

On the policeman's dismissal - We all know the disgruntled police officer snapped after hearing he lost his job from the service courtesy of the investigation made by the Office of the Ombudsman:

1. Why wasn't the former policeman's motion for reconsideration heard?
2. How many more cases like this is happening or will happen because the authorities in justice are not doing their job?

Just before the shooting started - It started minutes after the police (with full media coverage) took the hostage taker's brother into custody

1. Who authorized the arrest of the brother of the hostage taker that potentially started the situation?
2. Did the police know that the tourist bus have a television monitor to know what was going on when they arrested the brother of the hostage taker?
3. Didn't they know that the media will swarm on the arrest of the hostage taker's brother?

On the assault - If you watched the live or taped coverage of the drama, you'll have the same questions

1. What were the SWAT doing smashing the windows instead of using night vision goggles to track down Mendoza inside the bus?
2. In smashing the windows why were the police lacking materials to perform their operation like having ladders to smash the windows?
3. Why did the SWAT team go inside the bus without night vision goggles or even a flash light?

Photo credit: Pat Roque/AP (bus) / smh.com.au/AP (rolando mendoza)

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Bad Politics

What is this public-owned vehicle doing in Megamall?

Due diligence is a must to keep the public aware (in this case, Manila City residents) of public officials wanton abuse of our tax money for their own private needs.

This pictures were taken today (Ninoy Aquino's death anniversary day) at SM Megamall Building B, around 11:30 AM, at its second level parking. The two Manila City Tax-owned vehicles with District 1 Manila Congressman Asilo's name on it, were parked right in front of the mall's doors. Notice how they took out the plate number of the public vehicle to avoid being detected. However, they could not take away the conduction sticker off the windshield of the vehicle. They thought they won't be detected.

Ninoy's death in 1984 was the Filipinos' awakening of his/her consciousness of what should be done to right the wrong.

Does Rep. Atong Asilo know this? Does Mayor Alfredo Lim know this?

It's sad that such barangay public officials just don't get it. Let's fire these abusive people, please.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Download now or watch on posterous

Video007.3gp (84 KB)

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Starbucks is now offering Free wifi

via mashable.com

This news is from the U.S. but the main question now is when would Starbucks Philippines implement this? This is definitely great news especially to the Filipino market who loves to go online with their new found multimedia toys like iPhone, iPads, Macbooks, Vaios, and other smart phones. To many of the online community, this initiative by the coffee shop giant is long overdue. Starbucks is a place for reading books, studying, and research. Having this new feature will give more people reasons to go and enjoy the ambiance this Seattle-based coffee place offers. After this great news, you should know that Starbucks will also offer exclusive content only they could give customers. It's called Starbucks Digital Network or SDN. The said network will offer exclusive customers exclusive content only they could provide. According to Helium.com, when online inside their shops customers will get to choose five channels to get exclusive content for their purpose: News, Entertainment, Wellness, Business & Careers and My Neighborhood. Now, how exclusive this will be relies heavily on how enjoyable the experience is. Right now, it sounds promising, with Apple iTunes providing free downloads in the Entertainment channel of this SDN. The other providers are The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.

With this new feature, I sure hope Starbucks will win more customers but like I said it all depends on what their content can provide customers so we'll see how this will figure out in their operations.

Posted via email from Everything Customers

Why Google Wave Will Live

No matter how much bashing Google Wave gets, I still think this Google application is a genius. The moment I got wind of its Beta testing, I requested for an account and started toying with it. As soon as I started using it, I saw all the possibilities that I can do with it to help me in my work and personal life. In fact, I dubbed it as the "Facebook-killer" because you can do so much more interactivity with it. In fact, I find Facebook (FB) mundane nowadays - reading other people's stats is not really that interesting for me. Yes FB gets me connected with other people but I need something more useful and meaningful that will last longer than pop culture - hint-hint.

People, especially in the Philippines, love chatting and sharing stories with one another. And Google Wave is perfect for that. In fact you can never go wrong with chatting because people need to exchange words than just posting and not knowing if people will connect or not. Google Wave thread any conversations (like gmail, of course) you make but with photos and other visual capabilities that could make the interaction more meaningful. You can share pictures, do polling, plan events, draft and edit documents, share music and videos, brainstorm. . .there's so much possibilities you can do with it. In fact, people that I asked to try it said they liked it too - especially when we start editing work online and real time.

With all the promise Google Wave can give me, I hope Google will not take The Wave out. I like the wave and there's huge potential in what it can do to help people get meaningful connections both at home and at work. I feel Google Wave didn't get the chance to be known more for people to enjoy its full potential.

Trivia
Aside from "Facebook-killer," do you want to know what other names I gave it to tell people about it? Other names I gave were "Yahoo! Messenger on Steroids" or "Email meets Facebook meets Yahoo! Messenger." How can you not love Google Wave?

Posted via email from Everything Customers

Apple admits issues on iPhone 4

iPhone 4 have issues - Apple

via edition.cnn.com

In my last post, I thought Apple would be 'nice' enough to admit their mistakes. But it seems like the fastest-growing computing giant have pride bigger than it could probably burst. You would think Apple would admit to an honest mistake but instead - like the previous Philippine government - it would rather save its face by saying that the mistake is more of a software issue than a hardware issue. Good one. Now, they are saying that there's more problem with Apple than what we previously thought.

Read the link from CNN-Mashable and see what I mean.

Apple, why throw gasoline on a small fire?

Hay naku!

Posted via email from Everything Customers

Punishment for polluters: clean ‘esteros’ for a week - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

Punish litterers - DENR

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

I never read this headline during the Arroyo government. At last, we can really say that we care about our community and that we will not allow litter people trash our neighborhood. It's good that Sec. Paje is doing his research now to make sure people pay for the consequences.

I'm sure this measure will have to be legislated and/or passed through city or municipal ordinance. However this measure should go, the citizens should not be blind to say that our allegiance to President Aquino is support for our community. Mabuhay, Secretary Paje!

Posted via email from Mabuhay

Fighting fire with love

James Yap will fight for marriage. . .

via showbizandstyle.inquirer.net

This is my second and last post for this issue between presidential sibling, Kris Aquino and basketball star, James Yap, and the test of their marriage. Right off the bat, I want to commend Mr. Yap's pronouncements to fight for his marriage. However, I do want to caution him that fighting for this marriage does not just include repentance over his sin to his wife or whatever Ms. Aquino is in protest about. 'Cause if she has reason to believe that he caused this rift (and he did twice before) then he should do WHATEVER it takes to win them back. If Mr. Yap was caught for the third time by Ms. Aquino (or the nth time) to be unfaithful then he should do more than just texting her and close to nagging her about it. He should give her time. In fact, he should do it in prayer. If I were him, I would go down on my knees and ask God's help. This is beyond repair if he caused this rift.

The only thing that bothers me is the cause of this trouble. Admittedly, if this were my neighbor's life - I wouldn't probably hear of it. But since they're public personalities, my concern now are the people who are intently following their story. Ms. Aquino is extremely popular in this nation and what she does is exported into the hearts and minds of women - especially the young ones who are reading their account.

That's why I'm particularly elated to know that James is fighting for it. And since everyone knows about their story, Mr. Yap can even do the new generation a favor by being more responsible and to use their public life to help the young ones value women, value their manhood, and to value their family life.

But yeah, he can't get that from friends or family. He needs to get it from the ultimate source. Like it or not, he should get it from God. Only God can kill the fire with the kind of love only He can produce out of Mr. Yap.

Posted via email from Citing Christianity

Who is the bigger problem, Kris Aquino-Yap or James Yap?

James on Kris: It's up to her

via philstar.com

Just this once, I want to dive into this latest Kris Aquino controversy. I wonder why Kris Aquino left their home so hurriedly and at the same time announced so early her troubled relationship with basketball sport star, James Yap.

Almost immediately, you can place the blame on the man for such problems in relationships but in their case, It's worth taking a second look. To open up this situation, you want to ask these questions to give everything a better perspective - since this case is already very public.

First, why would James say, "It's up to her," when asked if there were more reasons why Kris broke up with him? Is he saying this out of frustration? Is this out of resignation? The public knows how Kris Aquino operate. She's very candid to the point of being tactless at times. Second, why would James be involved with other women when he knows very well the consequences of such actions? Third, why is there no buzz of what exactly went wrong with the two knowing the public have all the access they need to know the personal lives of these two celebrities? You become suspicious already.

As much as I want to give Mrs. Aquino-Yap the upper hand here, unless there's more proof of James infidelity (again!), then surely this is fast becoming a one-sided contest seeing the latter losing by a mile.

Posted via email from Bad Media

On iPhone 4: Why Philippines have it better?

via news.bbc.co.uk

If you haven't heard the news lately, Apple just released an official statement about their iPhone 4's flaw. Apparently, Apple integrated the unit's antenna into the case of the smart phone. Bad move. When using a phone like this, you usually hold the area where they say it shouldn't be held on. That's why it's funny when Apple big boss, Steve Jobs, said this, "Just avoid holding it in that way."

The board room meeting in Apple HQ about this problem have ended already and production for the iPhone 4 Gen II should be out by middle next year. That's not Apple talking - that's me calculating when a new iPhone 4 with this new feature will come out.

While the world got hold of their new Apple gadget, the Philippines can wait and buy a much improved and more sensible iPhone 4. Who says being a third world country don't have its perks?

Posted via email from Everything Customers

Arroyo Admin to Aquino Admin: Be kind and fair to Arroyo

"I wish that those coming in to govern in the coming weeks will understand, as they start engaging bureaucracy and the people in government, that they’re there to support. They should not look at our brothers and sisters in government as just people sitting around, and using their position for their own personal interest." - Donald Dee, PCCI Member

via showbizandstyle.inquirer.net

I wonder what he and Sec. Bautista-Horn means when they said to be fair with President Arroyo. Their statements want me to ask two questions: If they have nothing to hide, why fear? and Is President-elect Aquino that vindictive and blood-thirsty to put outgoing President Arroyo behind bars?

For Sec. Bautista-Horn's part, I think she got it all wrong if she thinks all the Filipinos ever want to have are infrastructures. I think it's wrong to surmise that all we want are tall buildings, modern trains, and tough bridges. In my opinion, the good secretary should've just be humble enough that the Arroyo Administration has all these to offer and we hope the incoming administration could just further help the Filipinos in their plight until 2016. Something like that. But to suggest what people should feel is not within their rights. Unsolved social injustices, railroading congress, and unaccountable system of governance does not even merit a grade of "good." It's poor and it's compromising the moral fibers of our nation. Lastly, I don't like what Sec. Bautista-Horn said, ". . .I am very hopeful that the next President will further build on our achievements for the greater good of our people." "Our achievements," Ms. Horn? As far as I'm concerned, I think you should've just termed it as "these achievements" because you sound like somebody owes something to this administration. I think the Filipino people do not appreciate tangible progress without the intangible progress.

For Mr. Dee's remarks, it makes me want to ask why people would think that everyone inside the administration are just "sitting around, and using their position for their own personal interest." Are you saying exactly what people thinks? If that was so then you hit the bull's eye. Your statements should be answered with, "if there's smoke, there must be fire." And you just admitted that there is something hugely wrong with this administration's branding and system of governance.

To the men and women of President Arroyo's administration, "Thank you." You guys did your best under the circumstances. But never dictate what those you serve should think about this administration. Allow the people to reap what you worked on and just agree with the statement said once before to allow history decide on what Pres. Arroyo and her administration did. If you think you did enough then that's probably good for you but let us think for ourselves.

Posted via email from Bad Politics

La Nina threatens Australia

via heraldsun.com.au

It sounds funny to actually imagine that Australia will be bombarded by buckets full of water but that imagery does not bode well for those who will be affected by the continuous downpour of rain. Because of trash, clogged drainage, and undisciplined neighbors of ours - we are bound to suffer more than our neighbors down under. What is the government doing about it right now? Who's overseeing the progress of taking out the clogged sewer system we have in the city? Are we planting more than we should? The hot summer months killed most of the trees that's supposed to hold rain water from the highlands. What are we doing to remedy the situation? What are we doing to prevent disastrous problems?

Posted via email from Bad Politics

Coke 'bitin'

[Bē-tin] Colloquial for not being able to satisfy your needs in the Filipino vernacular. That's how I perceive Coca Cola right now. For those runs a business, it's tough isn't it? You have to know the business from inside and out. You have to feel your customers. Coca Cola, on the other hand, is acting like it never knew how to conduct good business practices.

Since February this year, Coca Cola has not supplied customers and store outlets consistently. A lot of the business it supports died already or is dying - including ours. We're exclusive Coca Cola wholesalers yet Coke couldn't supply the needs our customers (retail stores) are asking for.  

In terms of communication, Coca Cola has done poorly. It sent mixed signals about its state. So much so that rumors started circulating. A lot of people were saying that the soda giant is on the brink of bankruptcy - suffering from huge lawsuits that they're facing from allegedly a poisoned soda.

Another story surfaced stating more than two months ago that Coke is suffering from logistical problems. The story goes that Coke is in need of more bottles because the demand is greater than they could every fulfill and this is causing them problems. Yet another story came out stating that Coca Cola is suffering from its previous business handler. It's a long story but its basically putting the blame on the latter. And there are more stories that are going around. There's probably a hundred more stories floating and none of them are validated.

What's the point? You remain quiet - stories will circulate. Nasty stories. And Coke does not need that when they're already reaping good publicity out of their "Coke is Happiness" advertising campaign.

Coca Cola is basically managing its operations and public relations poorly.

In a book I read somewhere in Fully Booked that the employers of your business are not the ones who funded the business - it's your customers. If this is Coke's way of treating its customers by not being forthright with its business partners and customers then they have every right to fire Coke.

They are missing the fact that we're partners but by doing this they don't even know what they're talking about. And like their promises to budding business like ours - they're basically empty like this bottle.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Brazil's flood warning to The Philippines

via theepochtimes.com

I am taking the Rio Largo, Brazil flood as a warning to our country and I can't just sit down and pray that something changes. Though I do not discount the power of prayer - it is also my duty to act in my faith to remind my countrymen to do something about the flood that we've seen destroyed homes, properties, and even lives.

What are we doing, as a people, to prevent this?

This is the second time I will say it in my blogs. These floods are a warning to all of us who will soon be naming the next destructive storm that will precede Ondoy. I'm being sarcastic. Why wait? Let's do something about it and prepare for the heavy rains as much as the oath-taking of the next president. While we're on that topic, why not pray for President-elect Noynoy.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Scary Flash Rain Preview of 2010

Download now or watch on posterous

krisatienza_june192010rain.3gp (5017 KB)

Minutes before 6 PM, rain poured as the sun sets and the effect was reminiscent of Ondoy.

My family went for a short ride to San Juan to look for a restaurant where we will celebrate Father's Day. As we head off north on EDSA, rain started to pour: frist drizzle-then came the rain.

I read stories of flashfloods in the city of Nashville, Tennessee, USA, Europe, and India early this year and seeing how water was pouring hard gave me chilling thoughts of what Philippines was up to this year since we just experienced El Niño over the hottest-dry season on record. I'm also scared because our nation is still preparing for the new president's oath-taking by the end of this month. You also have President Arroyo winding down her work as Administrator and Commander-In-Chief and preparing her exit.

While driving around for ten minutes, I said "Let's go home." The hard rain reminded me of Ondoy and all I could think about was getting home. Big puddles of rain water started to form at the two outer lanes of EDSA causing more traffic as cars and buses alike drive at a snail's pace to avoid more accidents. I turned on my hazard lights (and so did others) to help others see me.

"This is a perfect disaster forming." I thought. With everyone turning their attention on other government matters, the residents are about to get hit by this storm system that not even the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa)  was able to warn us. I documented the experience and posted it on CNN's iReport so netizens can help me warn others about this potential disaster.

I'm not being pessimistic but for all intents and purposes, I just want this to be something that the Philippine government (outgoing and incoming) should focus on more this year. I am sure that flood-control, environment protection and its awareness, and disaster management will be one of President-elect Noynoy Aquino's acid tests of his job in the first 100 days in office. As they prepare for the party, I hope this government and the incoming one should be talking to avert any further loss of lives as we brace for La Niña. Let's wait and see as I pray for our people and the government to act decisively and fast.

Posted via email from Born 1973

Fail: This Bishop thinks public schools can harm children

Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) president Msgr. Gerardo Santos said such transfers may hurt the students’ “psychological and emotional" side.

via gmanews.tv

I think we're sending the wrong signal to our children and creating a bigger divide by saying this. I was private school educated from Don Bosco Makati and University of Sto. Tomas and I think people who got their schooling from cities with Integrated Schools and City Universities ('Pamantasan') have same - if not better - qualifications to lead after they graduate.

We're forgetting that education is the same and culture is what you make out of it. I think the bishop should address the concern of parents who are not instilling values to their children. How are they handling their values system and what is feeding the minds of parents that nurtures the minds of the children? The Bishop forgets that education starts from the home. I think that's where the psychological and emotional fears that should be addressed immediately.

Besides, our kids should be taught how to relate to any kid no matter what status they have in their lives. And if we do that then we're teaching our kids right.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Binay, President-elect Aquino's first test

But pressed about Binay's preference for the DILG portfolio, Aquino said, "That's his right as a citizen, to express his opinion.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

More and more it is becoming apparent that Vice President-elect Jejomar Binay will be President-elect Aquino's first acid test in his job as president. Binay made it clear after congress confirmed his election win that he wants the Interior and Local Government portfolio. Personally, I wonder why he wants that post so badly. I also think it was in bad taste for him to voice his preference when Aquino hasn't vetted any candidate yet for most of the cabinet positions in government.

Will Aquino give way to Binay? Will Binay become Aquino's thorn and be the opposition? More importantly, how will the nation react?

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Hybrid rice from RP coming soon!

via philstar.com

I'm proud of our continuing progress in the rice industry. This hybrid rice should help a lot of farmers, a lot of millers, a lot of retailers, and homes. It's great to know that we are continuing to develop our main staple and make more Filipinos happy. I'm proud of those people directly supporting this project. Let's keep it up.

Posted via web from Mabuhay

Steve Jobs to crowd: 'We're having a little problem here'

"Well, I'm sorry, guys, I don't know what's going on,. . ."

via news.yahoo.com

Stever Jobs always wows the crowd with his remarkable presentations. I haven't been to one (and I wish I could see him do product launches in Manila - dream on) but you can just imagine how he weaves his magic and uses such tools like iPhones and iPads to push his product. This time, though, he was lost for words and couldn't get the wifi network to get back one. The whole thing happened - for what seemed to be for Jobs like an eternity - during his iPhone 4 product launch but the audience were forgiving. But they weren't as nice to AT&T who provided the wifi network to this event. Nonetheless, it was a welcome not that such an iconic person like Jobs is human afterall and that no matter how un-stellar the presentation was, people love Mac right now - no matter what.

Posted via web from Bad Media

Obama and BP

A variety of critics have accused Obama of being too cerebral in his reaction to the undersea gusher now fouling the Gulf of Mexico . . .

via edition.cnn.com

"Too cerebral?" I think President Obama deserves more respect than that. These critics, which the media overstates further, that we either have a leader who doesn't think or one that thinks deliberately before he acts. None of them makes anyone happy.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

Filipino recorded asteroid impact on Jupiter

This is my third blog post something about Filipinos. This time, it's something to be proud about.

If you have not caught the news yet, a Cebuano-based astronomer named Christopher Go was one of only two people in the world to catch the rare asteroid impact on the gaseous planet, Jupiter, last June 3.

The fireball was as big as planet earth, Go said, and it only lasted for two seconds. Catch it here.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

What's so funny about Filipino Time?

It's almost like a joke to a lot of my countrymen when they mention "Filipino Time" like it's the best thing that our culture has to offer the world.

Filipinos are so much into humor and mentioning this seems like it's always said in jest. But who's laughing when you think that "Filipino Time" actually means being late. The challenge with our modern culture is to actually kill this notion and have everyone start on time.

I remembered posting a meeting announcement recently for residents where I live. In big bold letters, I wrote the phrase - "We'll start on time." - at the bottom. I posted the announcement six days before the date and visible enough because it's right in front of the elevator doors. I started on time without waiting for other people to come in. We started on the dot. Late residents probably didn't like what I did but the five of those who came early appreciated that I took my words seriously. Everyone's time is valuable. You set a time - you mean it.

To help our nation BE ON TIME, I posted the link where everyone can sync their watches with the World Time Server. I guess this is the start to make Filipino Time means ON TIME.

Jesus said, "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37)

Imagine that.

WORLD TIME SERVER - click here to see what time it is REALLY in Manila.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

Can someone help me with Nearbytweets.com?

I don't know what's going on but this has got to be fixed. Nearby Tweets is a place where you can connect from anyone near where you live. However, I don't know what's going on with my account after signing in because its not giving me the results that I want. However, I'm almost sure there's a browser problem because I used my other computer (PC) and it worked fine there. I'm using a Mac here and Mozilla Firefox v. 3.6.3 to browse the site. It's just giving me this "refreshing tweets" sign and it's not doing anything.

I hope someone can give me answers fast because it's a great application but it's not working on my 'top.

Posted via email from Mabuhay

14th Congress shackles Freedom of Information Bill (HB 3732)

Because of the House's failure to ratify the bill, the credibility of Nograles and the 14th Congress was effectively buried, said Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism executive director Malou Mangahas.

via www9.gmanews.tv

It's ironic that the very people who were supposed to protect its citizens couldn't even pass a simple measure that will ensure that every Juan and Maria will get access to right, accurate, and unadulterated information when they need it as they need it. When they did their sine die or closing of the congress, didn't they think that they would need the help of this bill in the future? It's information that you and I need and this will help everyone.

It's ironic that House Bill 3732 had 180 sponsors (congressmen) when it was tabled in the congress halls. When it was time to ratify it only 128 showed up. What happened to the fifty-two other congressmen who were supposed to ratify the bill. Did they get bribed? Did Malacañang offered another deal before the president steps down this month? Whatever happened, it can only be concluded that our congressmen are proving the world right that Filipinos don't know how to vote their congressmen and we're just being toyed by them.

The Senate passed it's own measure four months ago with Senate Bill 3308. Until then, we will just have to wait.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

CONSUMER ALERT! McDo in US pulls back toxic tainted glasses

via newsfeed.time.com

This news just popped out of my Tweetdeck minutes ago and we, Filipino consumers, should beware. The said glasses' painted designs were tainted with cadmium - a metallic element - that could cause bone softening and kidney problems. It's good that these drinking glasses are found in the United States but you wonder if such products end up in the Philippines — and aghast! What if these products are sent to the Philippines to be sold to us? Who's regulating these from our local government? Who's protecting us? If you know anyone from the health department, customs, or anybody that could alarm the nation about these — please help. Shrek is about to be shown in the Philippines soon. Who knows where these products will end up.

Posted via web from Everything Customers

SHOCKING PHOTO: 50 Cent Loses 50 Lbs.

via people.com

Whoa! Playing a cancer-stricken role in his upcoming movie, 50 Cent went on a strict liquid diet and exercise for two months. This is how he looks like now. Read his story.

Posted via web from Born 1973

Facebook facing privacy crisis?

The biggest message we have heard recently is that people want easier control over their information," Zuckerberg said. "Simply put, many of you thought our controls were too complex.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

You may not know it but Facebook is violating your privacy. No, they're not selling your information but they "missed the mark" by not making their interface controls simple enough for people to set their privacy controls better. The 26-year-old CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, admitted with these flaws and they'll be launching simpler control features soon. That's a relief because I'm sure majority of the 400 Million Facebook users don't even know that their names, faces, and status appear in places you don't even want it to show.

Better late than never.

Posted via web from Everything Customers

Bishop views 'Born Again' a sin

Marquez noted that Nantes’ death was sudden and unexpected and there was no way for the Church to determine his repentance from his being a “born again Christian” and a “Freemason.

via newsinfo.inquirer.net

Is this the official statement of the Roman Catholic faith or just the bishop's? I was saddened how the bishop of Lucena, Quezon termed - in effect - that being an Evangelical Christian (born again) is a sin. I'm also in disbelief how Bishop Marquez is so insensitive to the families and the bereaved of the late Governor Rafael Nantes. If the priests are the equivalent of the Apostle Peter, and each one aims to be like Jesus - I'm just sad that this church head is going the opposite direction.

"There is no politics in the decision of the Church. I just implemented the Church laws," he said. Bishop Marquez, there's no such thing as Church laws - the church embodies Jesus and Jesus wouldn't refer to a book and say, "I wouldn't be compassionate to this one because he's a sinner." How can you invite and promote change in society if all you can think of are the "clean" people going to your church? Jesus was with the despised tax collectors, the prostitutes, etc. He did it because he was reaching out and wanting them to see a better life - you Bishop Marquez just did the opposite thing. It's a shame we're better off following laws than following and doing the example Jesus did.

You may say there's no politics involved in your decision but you're out to please man (Vatican) - that's politics.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

20 Worst Drinks in America 2010

via eatthis.menshealth.com

Choose your poison, a popular saying goes and I wonder if choosing these kinds of drink would be like taking arsenic little by little until you die completely. Your arteries will get clogged and you die happy - i guess.

These drinks are what you should avoid if you ever get to America. Now, while in Manila, I suggest you heed the call and run away from such concoctions.

By the way, you won't believe what's on Number 1 on the list.

Posted via web from Cooling Station Beverage Store

Venus Williams' racy outfit in French Open

via sports.yahoo.com

Edgy? Yes. Appropriate? Could be. Necessary? No. Perhaps she's going with the theme "French" but as much as this outfit is futuristic in all sense, it's distracting and it gives her, as a person, a different meaning. She's an athlete, not a fashion model. This is a sporting ground not a runway. Bad Venus. Bad.

Posted via web from Bad Politics

NOW READING: The Dip by Seth Godin

via amazon.com

You can never go wrong reading Seth Godin's books. It's small, handy, and yes - insightful. I held the book at a popular bookstore in Bonifacio Global City and started chomping on it like there's no tomorrow. Unfortunately, I couldn't finish it because it's not right reading it without actually buying it. "What really sets superstars apart from everyone else is the ability to escape dead ends quickly, while staying focused and motivated when it really counts." - there are those options we can do in life but there's only one thing that we should be doing in life. This is really intriguing and I can't wait to go back and...er... buy the book. It's Php550 and it's worth being in my virtual shelf. Yep, I'm praying for one. Read on.

Posted via web from Born 1973