A Life Changing Afternoon & Experience in Tagaytay

Last Sunday was great! 

I always had a soft spot for kids and a lot of people kinda know that. Although being a non practicing Catholic that I am it was always hard for me to show how much I love my faith and the one above. I guess I spoke too soon when I received a call early morning from Bernard Umali inviting me to go to Tagaytay. I said YES right away not knowing where we were going to. I guess in the back of my mind it was a short time away from the hustle and the bustle of the city. It was literally in the car already that I came to realize that we were going to a orphanage down South. I had hesitations going to places like these because I get traumatized leaving crying kids, but I had a feeling this one was different. Much different.

The land area was big but it didn't have enough structures on it. I didn't see anybody open the gate or see us when we arrived. I asked "Where are the kids?!"... I found out the reason why later on.

When we got there some of the kids were still sleeping. Probably because it was still Siesta Time and or the kids really were not up yet from their regular sleep. Sister Yoly Primaleon warmly greeted us when we arrived at the activity area. I think this is where they usually hold their classes/catechism activities inside the orphanage. When the kids approached us, every single one of them held our hands immediately and greeted us with "Pagmamano" a gesture I seldom see kids do nowadays in the city. That really touched me in so many ways, I was in for more. 

Small hands, feet, and a very happy demeanor inside the orphanage.

I saw the kids smiling at me. Smiling at us. It was something money couldn't buy. I felt so good while I was there but at the same time quite worried about the things that I saw. Aside from Sister Yoly, there weren't enough people around. Maybe one or two other Nuns plus a few of the more older kids helping a bit. I learned from her later on that the house currently has 30 kids and babies on their care. That only means one thing, they are undermanned. It's 6 people handling 30 kids, some of them are babies that are only a few months old. Imagine how hard it is to do this 24/7. Funding also this entire household would take a lot. There are generous individuals plus the facility they have for retreats that's funding their operations; but I know that's not enough. For those who would like to lend a hand do a good deed now and help these kids, please contact the number provided below or call Sister Yoly directly via 7883233. I hope this little article could help spread the word.

We got to distribute stuff like toys and clothes that some of our co bloggers donated during the last Saranggola Blog Awards. They also were given food courtesy of the generous people at DMCI and Bernard Umali.

The kids were quite a happy bunch. Bernard Umali got us all to sit down and interact with the kids. Early that afternoon none of the kids stuck with me because I probably was too big of a guy =) When Bernard started the story telling session, the kids listened quite profusely. They also did some of the actions/sound element of the story so it was very nice to see that. Then some of the kids started to come near me, just imagine while I was carrying a baby there were a total of 4 who wanted to sit on my lap altogether whilst listening to Bernard. If you saw us, it was just heartwarming... it really made my heart melt to see they were that excited for attention. They were that happy to give us hugs too.

It was a good thing they didn't get these kids be exploited by politicians or other individuals because they limit people taking their photos. I did the right thing blurring their faces on my site because they are minors after all.

I really felt that each small thing we did there meant quite a LOT for them because you get to feel they really wanted it... and they showed how much they really treasured it. So if you are around the area taking a vacation or just in the mood to help those who really need it please drop by their orphanage and spend time with the kids. It's the best thing to let them know that YOU care. It's also the best way of teaching them that even if they are in that situation, they are LOVED. You'll feel good you did something for these kids and your brethren.

Thank you so much to every one at the Augustinian Orphanage especially to Sister Yoly and the others for showing us around. In behalf of all the bloggers under the UBLOG group in FB, thank you for the opportunity to help you in our little way. To the bloggers and people who helped us get there, thank you so much... I learned a lot; you just don't know how much this means to me. Let's try to do this again sometime real soon!

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For more information

Please visit the Orphanage or check out their Retreat House Facilities

Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus and Mary.
Mo. Teresa Spinelli Novitiate House,
Kabangaan Road, Iruhin West,
4120, Tagaytay City.
Philippines.

or call Sister Yoly Primaleon directly via 788-3233
Tel:- 046-413-39-45
Fax:- 046-860-00-16
Celphone:- 09192658058
E mail address:- srcarmenborg@yahoo.com

SPYDER Helmets and Optics Philippines: Charging Up Your Summer!

It was one fine day when I decided to drop by a friends event in the South particularly in Fiesta Mall Alabang. I haven't been there for quite a while probably a year or more but it was high time to do it so I could check out what the buzz is about SPYDER. It's a brand carrying sun glasses, watches, motorcycle gears, helmets and accessories. For guys like me, this is staple. I needed to be there for real.

 Judah Paolo, another guy and a girl (sorry I'm a dumb-ass at remembering names) hosted the launch and they pretty much gave us a glimpse of what's in store for 2012 for SPYDER. This brand has made remarkable achievements in the Philippine market and why not, I've seen them there and without batting an eyelash; I see that they are of good quality. I chose a couple of items from the shelf and liked a few things. I'm not a motorcycle rider but I am a very much an advocate of safety. My best friend encountered an accident a couple of years ago which literally changed his life and ours. This was somehow one of the things discussed in the launch. It is very important for me personally.

 

For every purchase of SPYDER helmets you may have the option of purchasing additional accident insurance for a measly 150 Pesos. Yes you heard that right, they can cover you for 100,000 for each piece purchased. That's not event the cost of papers made for the arrangements to get one. It's like almost free if you ask me. In the Philippines, health care is so expensive and if someone throws this in with just their product in the mix, you definitely get the best of both worlds.

SPYDER Optics Line

 

The choices were very good. Their line mostly consists of heavily tinted ones since this probably is designed for our weather. If you traveled through the streets of Manila in the afternoon, you definitely need to cover up. The sweltering heat of the sun isn't too kind on your skin, more so your sensitive eyes. 

As for the styles, it is varied but they are more on the sporty side. I guess this is geared more towards the cycling market. The overall aesthetic is still modern though. The colors are impeccably chosen well. If I had to choose one to be my favorite, it would be this one here.

It's got the right amount of tint, style and color. Wish I had it really.

SPYDER Timepieces

It was a mix of classy and sporty ones. Definitely what a guy would want in an activity or just plain "dress to impress events. 

White with silver details on the outer frame and white strap to come with it. This would definitely fit me for everyday use in the office.

 SPYDER watches are built strong. Some pieces like this one even have huge metal screws on them. Quite something impressive and not bargained for in a watch, but hey they throw it in your way.

Details of the inner body of the watch also is designed well. As you can see even the color is nice!

SPYDER Helmets

For bike and motorcycle enthusiasts, it is under the law to wear helmets. This would account to around 90% of lives saved because of solely wearing it. SPYDER has got a line of heavy duty helmets both for motorbikes and manual ones. I had my picks but I probably would get you more engaged in this if I show you the nice ones from the rack. 

You can choose between designs and engineered ones for Mountain Trails, the City and Sports. It is made to last the weather and conditions in the country so if you are looking for the perfect gear, make sure you take a look at what they have to offer.

SPYDER Assist Program

President and CEO Lal of Roshan Commmercial Corporation, distributor of Spyder Helmets & Optics in the Philippines takes pride in bringing this brand into greater heights as they offer the SPYDER ASSIST PROGRAM. For 150 Pesos right after your purchase, you get the peace of mind you need because you are insured. It's definitely worth it! Make sure you avail of this before you walk out of the store.

I remember what Judah said when he asked Sir Lal about this program and the brand. He definitely cares about it and he enthusiastically wanted to help. That's why they are thinking of ways how to make it easier with Filipinos. That alone convinces me, SPYDER is the real thing.

For the people behind SPYDER Helmets & Optics and Roshan Commmercial Corporation, thank you very much for everything! Congratulations also to the winners!

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Spyder Philippines

Xander Angeles + CBTL + Iphoneography

Xander Angeles, The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Iphoneography, epic!

It's just one of those days where you just get lucky and get the best of photography and beverages all in one place. Last Friday, my usual weekend just became sweeter with these two things met at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City. As you may probably know by now, my Sensei Xander Angeles is quite well known in the Fashion and Photography industry; and he took off his busy schedules, got the afternoon and evening all for us who went for a coffee break at CBTL. It was so awesome to see a guy of his caliber teaching the tricks of the trade plus getting first dibs on CBTL's newest summer offering. Just thinking about it makes me want to have that again!

 

Most of us non iphone users just brush off what this little gadget can do as far as editing photos is concerned. I didn't know there were some apps that could be so great with editing and yes its all in the Apple Store. A few touches here and there et VOILA!

Food and portraits just become so better once you get to retouch it. There were even some participants shot with a couple of light sources and an IPHONE. It was so nice seeing the output, and honestly I wasn't surprised... after all it's Xander Angeles we're talking about here! =)

What's even cooler than summer? Well it's two of the newest flavors at CBTL!

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Pineapple Vanilla Ice Blended - It's a new concoction with a sweet - tangy taste. I love how things just fit together and taste so good and refreshing. It's the best thing to have when you are under the sweltering heat of the sun!

Pineapple Fru Tea Ice Blended - The only one of its kind in Manila, a combination of lovely cool tea and the sweet tangy flavors of Pineapple all in one. You may think its a weird combination but its so good that people even have their own versions of this!

Plus the number one Photographer! Hehehe :)

 Plus the number one love team! Kate and Boss Niko Villegas!

 Number one CBTL!

Number one TEAM that evening!

For all the nicest thing in this world and the greatest things in photography; only one brand can put them all in one place. The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Philippines... born and brewed in Southern California since 1963!

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The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines)

STYLISTICS Live in Manila!

Honestly these are the songs that I was forced to listen to when I was a kid. Well, let me rephrase that... I actually am still exposed to this til now. My Dad is a Stylistics enthusiast and that made me accustomed to singing in this way and using that as well in so many songs today. This particular era of Stylistics was very much out of my generation, but in a nutshell I really loved them. Things like these are not really seen nowadays and people like my Dad, Mom and all of their friends would really love and reminisce about their music. Good thing they are coming to Manila on April 12, 2012, 8pm at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Yes you heard that right! The Stylistics will be here in Manila soon!

I can't wait to listen to their hits "Betcha by Golly", "Wow, Stop, Look, Listen", "You Are Everything", "I'm Stone in Love with You", "Break Up to Make Up" and "You Make Me Feel Brand New" (which by the way was revived by Simply Red which I LOVE too!). Let Airrion Love, Herb Murrell, Van Fields and Eban Brown take you to the times when music was classy and the performance were just way DIFFERENT!

You will also see Elisabeth Ramsey and Rico J Puno for their opening acts so it'll surely be a wonderful evening! For tickets please call 911-5555 or visit Ticketnet.com.ph. This awesome concert is brought to you by That’s Ntertainment Productions and ABS-CBN. Don't look any further if you want to give your folks the greatest gift they'll ever receive this year!