Eh-hum # 30

My 30th post! ALRIGHT! Why am I so glad about this? Well, I thought I will be too lazy (or too busy) to share my thoughts on this here blog. But as it turns out, I am doing fine, even though I average around 2 to 3 posts a week (hehehe, maybe even less). A new look eh? What say you? Hmmmm. I thought a change would be nice. To celebrate this momentous occasion, I shall make this a lengthier (and hopefully, a more interesting) post.

MASTER OF ARTS

After weeks of planning, coordinating with former professors and present supervisors, downloading some important documents and spending time out of the office, I am now qualified to take my graduate studies this second semester. I wanted to take my Masters earlier this year but due to the lack of funds, I was obliged to change my plans. I had to keep it a secret, rather, I decided to work it out quietly and mentioning it only to a few close friends. They say that the more you disclose any future plans, the more unlikely it will be fulfilled. FYI, I was able to submit the requirements last 27 September 2004, 3 days till deadline. Whew.

I applied for both UP and ADMU and the courses were quite similar. I am proud to say that I was accepted into ADMU, excited at the idea that I will be definitely starting this semester. However, I have yet to know the results of all the tests and the interview I had in UP. They were to announce the results late this week, which unfortunately, falls on ADMU’s enrolment schedule. Nonetheless, I still intend to contact UP for the results.

Honestly, the last two weeks has been confusing. If accepted to both universities, it will be a problem where to enroll. I consider both institutions excellent in their own right. More importantly, I believe that the courses I will take will grant me a higher level of competence and will enable me to define my chosen career path. I should point out that my decision will not be based on the tuition fees of the universities, which are (clearly) distinct. I am after the working environment, what the department can offer me and my performance as a graduate student. Education, I believe in some ways, is an investment. My family has been helping out in this decision. The funny thing is, when I think about this predicament, I realized it is not clear yet if I am going to be accepted in UP. We will wait and see and I will humbly share my decision before or after this coming weekend.

TOUGH AND FUNKY

I was surfing the Internet when I remembered a funny site an (former) office mate showed me back in 2001. The site is home to a series of flash animation that features the life of a weird yet lovable character named Mr. Boomba. Not sure if you have heard of this but it’s worthwhile to check it out. Here’s the link: http://www.boombastick.net/mainset.html. Enjoy!

Eh-hum # 29

How Timely.....

Just when I was sharing some (unhealthy?) thoughts on the Songbird, now here comes another concern raised by the televiewers. Yeah, I agree. I noticed how often Regine wears those, eh-hum, revealing gowns that does not exactly complements her (surgically enhanced) body. How about that haute-couture? In Zsa Zsa's case, i find her gowns for "Star in a Million" more sophisticated so she should've stick to that. Lady, you're not in your late 20's anymore.

Why is that some women have to wear something short, "binding" (thanks to Cher), sheer and revealing shirts, dresses or gowns to be considered SEXY? How you seen the movie Disclosure starring Michael Douglas and Demi Moore? Demi was wearing a corporate suit and she looks exceptionally sexy even though she was practically covered up. I personally think that being sexy has something to do with a person's attitude and the way she or he carries herself/himself. Showing off that much skin does not mean someone is sexy. In the case of Pinoy sexy star wannabes and starlets, it is definitely downright salacious and not in a bit sexy. More like nauseating. Unfortunately, many chauvinistic pigs don't know the difference.

Eh-hum # 28

GRP Quick Schemes

First, it was the ostensible fiscal crisis. Our economy is in peril, as they say, and if we don’t do something about it, we’re doomed. So, what was the government’s prescription? SAVE THE @#$!! FILIPINO’S MONEY. Oh yeah, we’re on a roll!

Solutions: 1. GMA launched the Austerity Program (Damn. It’s nerve-wracking, really). 2. The proper administration of tax collection (Yep, good, I like that a lot). 3. The GRP must find a way how to effectively purge, once and for all, graft and corruption (Oh dear. Can we say, Mission: Impossible?). 4. Do something about the country’s peace and order situation (Totally agree on that one).

5. Ask donations from everybody (As my friend Quasi would say: HUH?!?) WHAT THE HELL?!?!! In the beginning, it seemed like a good idea, banking on the innate generosity of politicians and businessmen (yeah, right). But, I don’t consider it as a solution. Solutions are expected to be LONG TERM. Asking donations may help, but for how long? If those politicians keep giving their money, the people will become AWFULLY suspicious that for a honest salary of P30,000.00++ per month, how come they are able to shell out millions of pesos in a snap? AHA, GOTCHA!!! For a time, this “solution” was highly publicized. Come on people! It’s a quick solution to a massive problem. GEEEZZZZZ.

Another quick scheme is the FOOD COUPONS, as an answer to hunger. Hmmm. Okay, that’s nice and all but, doesn’t that encourage indolence? I mean, they (the poor) just wait for the free food (YIPEEEE!!!!) and not attempt to make something out of their lives. What they need are programs that would assist them in the beginning, then eventually, they have (they must) to be on their own. It’s good that the GRP admitted that the coupons would be only temporary and now, they are thinking that the GRP should subsidize the food allocation (costing P6 Billion a MONTH!) for the poor. Uh-huh. Not bad, but not totally good either. While we shall witness (we should be assured) that the government funds are being utilized for the better good, am still suggesting those livelihood programs.

“Keep giving a man fish, he will learn nothing. Teach him how to fish, he will never grow hungry”. Or something like that.

On the Songbird

Two weeks ago, I was on my way home using the UBER-convenient MRT, I came across this billboard of Channel 7’s new soap: Forever in My Heart. First of all, I think it’s a pretty boring title. I mean, I still prefer those drama titles using just one Filipino word. Anyway, that’s not what this is about. In the billboard, we find Richard Gomez, Ariel Rivera and of course, the heroine of the soap (and among other Channel 7 productions), Ms. Regine “Asia’s Songbird” Velasquez.

Ms. Velasquez the Songbird. In the beginning, Regine was this young lady from Bulacan with an unbelievable voice. It was unique and it paved the way for a rewarding career. I remembered she starred in this corny movie that featured her singing prowess with a duet with one of the lead characters. It wasn’t a flattering arrangement, but what the hell, it’s still a movie and definite exposure. And then there were the major international singing contests. I was able to watch one and she was AMAZING. And after that, she had concerts and shows and albums and more movies. Sorry to say, but while Ms. Velasquez became more popular, she began to physically MORPH as well (nice nose). It was WAY OBVIOUS people, so no denying here.

Let me just share a few insights on the Songbird. First, I find Ms. Velasquez voice more beautiful before than it is now. Though she can still reach the highest note, it was not as unique as before. Second, for someone who is famous, I think it’s about time to coordinate with a professional designer. It was in the now renamed “Search for a Star” episodes that I saw the Songbird wearing some totally unsightly gowns (short dresses a definite no). You may be adored by the Filipino masses, but that’s not an excuse to wear anything less than haute-couture. Third, the acting. I am not too sure of her acting. She’s a wonderful singer and all, but a serious actress? I am still doubtful. It’s the same way I feel about Kris Aquino: excellent TV host, still a questionable actress. Fourth, the way she speaks (my mom would agree with me on this one) English. She does this thing with her mouth in order to achieve this certain (pa-sosyal) accent, and honestly, it’s pretty annoying. And lastly, I think she’s a little overexposed. I think Channel 7 is riding on her popularity way too much without really thinking if she can give 100% to the task. You may be good in one thing, but that doesn't mean you can do everything. Give her a break guys, the lady deserves it.

Nope, I don't hate the Songbird. Again, I am just sharing my insights (besides, this is my blog). Maybe, it wouldn’t hurt if we don’t see her on TV 24/7 since it’s possible that she’s going to burn out fast. Too much work and no play, makes a diva lose her star quality by being overworked.

Eh-hum # 27

UPDATES!

Oh dear. It has been almost 9 days since my last entry (I am not really sure if that is the longest). There’s no cause for alarm here folks. I am DETERMINED to keep the HENYO BLOG alive and kicking. Now, excuse me while I express myself.

So what has been happening? Well, the GRP’s austerity program is good and all, but it says a lot about my work. Good News or Bad News? I am not sure. However, I would appreciate it if management will tell us either way. OHBOYOHBOYOHBOYOHBOY. Now, reality is starting to sink in, therefore, I should be ready for more (inauspicious) surprises. While the idealist in me should consider the situation as a challenge (that will create room for personal growth, etc), the realist in me is pissed as hell. Life is unfair, they say. But the thing is, why can’t it be unfair for those who cheat, steal and lie? Should I be like them to make things evenhanded? Crap.

OKAY! Enough ranting. For the other things in life, I AM SO NERVOUS! I took this test and its results will definitely break or make me. Or at least, would cause some sort of awkwardness in the future if things didn’t go according to plan. I just hope that will not be the only basis. One down and one more to go. And this is suppose to be the easy one.

If you are wondering what I am talking about, perhaps I can share it sometime in mid-October. Hwehwehwehewe.

Abangan ang susunod na kabanata.