May Hugot

Dear heart,

Stop falling in love with the person 

who is already taken and cannot be mine.

~~~~

If loving you is wrong, then I don't wanna be right!

~~~
And if being right means I have to live without you.. then I wanna be wrong for the rest of my life..

~~~

Attention! 

Ayaw mo palabi gamit sa inyohang phone 

kay grabe ang radiation, 

sakit ra ba sa mata makit-an sya nga happy sa uban. 

~~~ 

May joke ako about sa eye, 

Labyu. 

~~~ 

Gaprito ko gabie ba,

Then nitalsik ang mantika, sakit man diay 

Sakit man diay biyaan tag walay rason. 

~~~ 

AKO'Y MAY NATUTUNAN SA AKING KARANASAN 

MALI ANG MAGMAHAL NANG LUBUSAN. 

KILANGAN BANG MAHALIN KA NANG LUBUSAN 

UPANG AKO'Y IYONG IWANAN? 

~~~ 

Me as a future taxi driver driver nakadistino sa Airport. 

Ako: uy, miss saan tayo? 

Tourist: pahatid po sa Dumaguete boulevard. 

Ako: o sige Tara, ocho lang. 

Tourist: Ang layo, pero ocho Lang. Ba't ang mura? 

Ako: bakit mura? Simple lang. Takot na kasi akong MAGMAHAL 

~~~ 

BAKIT LIST

SAWI KA SA PAG-IBIG? In love? One-sided love? Pwes, read on, para sayo ito!

Ang pag-ibig, madalas ay nakakalito. Kung bakit sa taong “taken” ka pa umibig, kung bakit madalas sawi ka sa pag-ibig. Ito at marami pang mga tanong ang madalas kong naririnig kaya heto ang aking lista sa mga “bakit” na ‘yan.

• Bakit kung sino pa itong bigay-todo kung magmahal ay s’ya pang laging sawi sa pag-ibig?
• Bakit hindi pwedeng harapan mong masabi sa kanya na minamahal mo siya nang lihim?
• Bakit doon ka pa umiibig sa taong alam mong mahirap maging sayo?
• Bakit ang hirap kung ikaw lang ang nagmamahal? Bakit mayroon pang tinatawag na one-sided love?
• Bakit may mga taong sadyang pa-fall lang talaga? ‘Yong tipong papakitaan ka ng motibo tapos out of the blue, they just left you hanging?
• Bakit kung ako’y nagmamahal eh sa mga tao pa talagang “taken” na?
• Bakit andaming pagkakataong tanga ako sa kanya? ‘Yun bang kahit halatang niloloko ka lang n’ya, eh kunting lambing lang ayos ka na ulit?
• Bakit may mga taong hindi kuntento sa isa? ‘Yung tipong akala mo nag-iisa ka lang sa buhay n’ya ngunit nalaman mo na lang na ‘andami n’yo palang linoloko n’ya? Saklap!
• Bakit hindi n’ya man lang maappreciate ang effort mo?
• Bakit ang hirap makahanap ng matinong iibigin sa ngayon?
• Bakit may mga bagay na gustung-gusto mo pero mahirap mapapasayo?
• Bakit kung kailan ready ka nang mag-move on ay saka pa siya naglalambing sayo?
• Bakit tila mahirap tanggapin na hanggang crush ka lang sa kanya?
• Bakit pilit pa ring minamahal ng puso ang taong wala ka namang pag-asa?
• Bakit kahit galit na galit ka na sa kanya pero kunting suyo at lambing n’ya lang okay ka na ulit? Yung tipong paramg andali mo siyang patawarin gaano ka man kainis sa kanya.

Ikaw, ano naman ang “bakit list" mo? Comment down at pag-usapan natin.

Enjoying Christmas Day Spent all by Yourself

The Christmas Day is often associated to the day of spending your best time with your family, relatives and friends. In fact, for most cultures that have Christian backgrounds, Christmas is best spent when they’re united with their families and loved ones. There will be times, however when it’s really impossible to be with loved ones during the celebration of important holidays like Christmas.

For different reasons, there are people who will be celebrating the holidays alone. Do you believe that you CAN still have the best Christmas ever, even away from home? Well, this article aims to prepare you what to do to best enjoy the Christmas Day even when you’re alone.

There may be many reasons such as work, study, company projects or events why you need to go in a distant place far from home during Christmas (or just in any other occasions); but being away from your family is not a reason to frown and live an unhappy disposition during Christmas. Don’t dwell too much on the fact that you’re away from the people very dear to you on this important occasion. Instead, take it as a challenge to work hard and move forward. As the famous cliché once tell us: “THINK POSITIVE!”

Situations like this (when you really can’t go home for Christmas) may even result to be a blessing in disguise because sometimes, being away may strengthen your relationships with your families back home. In my case, ever since I graduated college, I have to spend my Christmas away from my family because I work many miles away from our province. Yep, I haven’t celebrated Christmas with my family for three years now. And yes, being away from home even during Christmas somehow help to build a strong relationship with our family.

It’s during my rest days from work when I had the opportunity to talk to my family back home through the use of today’s modern technology—the mobile phone. To be honest, I’m not the type of person who talks about how valuable my family is, but with our constant conversations on the phone, I’ve conveyed how they mean to my life especially during Christmas. Yes, we may have been separated many miles apart, but our strong family ties are even made stronger; and that’s why I consider being away from them as a blessing in disguise.
So, based on experience and others’ common experiences, here’s how you can best enjoy Christmas although away from home:

1. Make sure to communicate with your loved ones.Communication is really important as it connects you to your loved ones back home. However, constant communication is a different story. Bear in mind that Christmas only takes place once a year. It is important to spend even a short span of time conversing with your families.If you’re away, make use of today’s technology—you can call them via phone, or even exchange messages through text, or e-mail if possible. Video calling is another notable option; Skype may be best if your families back home have computer and internet access. (Tip: Even tablets and android phones have mobile applications for Skype which you can use!)

2. Buy yourself some gifts. Why not? We buy gifts for others at one point, so you should also treat yourself at Christmas. The great thing about buying gifts for yourself is that you get exactly what you want in the color, shape and size you want. Wrap them up on great Christmas paper and put them under the tree to open on Christmas morning.Even though you know what they are, it’s exciting to have new special things on Christmas.

3. Plan a great Christmas meal. Yes,Christmas may be incomplete if meals aren’t served. Having sumptuous meals on your table during Christmas? That’s just so awesome. If you happen to visit fellow Filipinos on Christmas, rest assured you will be delighted to see the variety of meals prepared on their table such as spaghetti, cakes, salads and others.On the other hand, when you’re in a Japanese household, one thing that will catch your attention is the presence of the Japanese Christmas cake. In Japan, it is tradition to eat cake on Christmas. So, don’t be surprised whenever you are offered the cake on Christmas! (Tip: DO you have the passion in cooking? Baking a cake for Christmas might be a good idea to consider.)

4. Take decorations! It'll make your time merry to decorate on Christmas. Try it, the feeling is awesome! (For real!)

5. Go to church, this will mean you can spend Christmas with others. I believe going to church is a means that you will think more about the real meaning of Christmas and discover it is just as special whether you have hundreds of people to celebrate with or no one at all.

6. Reach Out to Others. Yes,try to focus on others. Christmas is the best time for volunteering and being with others at church, or any civic activities, or even charity works. The act of giving also helps in reminding you of all of the blessings that you have in your life. Giving your time and effort to people in need feels much more rewarding than receiving a gift. After all, this is the season of giving.

7. Think positive. Be positive. Drive change. The fact that they’re away from home, most people forget that they are to enjoy their own company around Christmas. Why? Because they are too busy feeling sorry for themselves. This can spoil their entire time. Think positive thoughts and remember the true meaning of the season and you can still have a great time. Maybe even better than if you were with family.

In closing, make Christmas truly a one-big event to remember. Not everyone will make it to the next one so we can only make the most of those we have right here, right now. And always remember…Christmas is a wonderful thing,even if you're at home or not.

Happy Holidays!

Note: 

This article was originally published in 2014 by EMMAGAZINE, a magazine I used to write for that was based in Japan and had Filipino and Japanese audiences. Thanks to Mr. Butch Causing, the editor-in-chief for the trust. 

How to Make Someone You Love (Who Doesn't Love You) Love You Back

Falling in love with someone who doesn't love you back is difficult. How can you make him or her love you back? If you tried hard and searched for credible answers to this question, there can never be a cool answer my friend!

In the first place, one cannot simply command someone to love him or her back. That my friend is due to the fact that we are given with hearts that cannot just be dictated who to love and who not to love. True love waits, they say.

If you are really meant for each other, you will have this person for life at the right place and at the right time.

Let us also accept the fact that one cannot simply be persuaded to love you back even if you have exerted countless efforts to win him or her.

Bear in mind that the heart beats, and it beats faster to someone who is meant for it.

Spoken Word Poetry: Kumusta?

Spoken Word Poetry: Kumusta?

Junrey R. Belando

October 14, 2018

Kumusta ka na? Masakit pa ba ang mga sugat sa puso mo 
dulot ng taong dati mong sinisinta?

Salamat naman kung okay ka na at unti-unti nang naghilom ang sugat 
o mga sugat sa puso mong kamakailan lang ay tila durog na durog na.

Pinupuri kita sa angkin mong tapang sa pagkubli ng sakit sa damdamin 
sapagkat sa panlabas na anyo ay waring hindi mo alintana.

Ang iyong taglay na tapang at lakas 
upang patuloy na bumangon ay talagang kahanga-hanga.

Nararapat sayo ay gawin kang isang bayani, 
bayani katulad nina Bonifacio, Jacinto at Mabini

Kasintapang mo sila 
bagama’t damdamin lamang at sarili ang iyong sandata

Tunay na hindi matatawaran
 ang ankin mong tapang sa pagkubli ng iyong pagkabalisa

Sapagkat sa labas at publiko 
waring buhay mo’y napaka perpekto 
'pagkat maligaya ang iyong ipinapakita.

Ngunit ang hindi nila alam habang ikaw ay malayang nakikipag-usap o tumatawa

Habang sa paggawa ng iyong mga takda-- hapon man o sa umaga

Habang sa mundo mong ginagalawan ikaw ay abalang-abala

Ay nananaig pa rin sa puso mo ang hapdi, kirot at buhay na walang-gana.

Ngunit bakit sa madla ay iba naman ang iyong ipinapakita?

Bakit kahit pag-iyak ay hindi mo man lang magagawa

Patunay ba ito na ikaw ay patuloy pa ding nagdurasa

Mula sa sakit at hapdi ng kahapong naglalaro pa din sa iyong alaala?

Nasaan na ang mga ngiting 'yon na tunay na maligaya?

Nasaan na ang buhay mong dati-rati ay kaysigla?

Nasaan na ang dating ikaw na tunay na napakaligaya?

Kapatid, tama na. Bumangon ka na at buksan ang iyong mga mata

Buhay mo ay may saysay kahit wala na ang dati mong sinisinta

Kapatid tama na. 
Pakatandaan na hindi ka nag-iisa, 
sapagkat naririyan naman mga taong sa kanila, ikaw ay mahalaga.

Kaya’t bangon na, alisin ang mga bagay na syang nakapiring sayong mga mata
 at harapin ang panibagong yugto pagkat alalahanin mo,
 habang buhay may pag-asa.

SPOKEN WORD POETRY: BUMABANGON

Katha ni: JUNREY BELANDO

Wala akong pakialam, wala na akong nararamdaman

Wala na akong dapat balikan pa, kaya’t wala na rin dapat pag-usapan

Wala na akong sasabihin sapagkat itong puso’y kumbinsido na

Kumbinsido na itong puso’y babangon muli mula sa pagkalugpok
Babangong muli mula sa kanyang pagkamarupok

Kaya’t kahit na tila walang tigil itong mga dagok

Na pilit sumisira sa dating matibay na kahibangan

Ngayon itong puso ay pilit na lumalaban

Lumalaban tayo, lumalaban itong pusong lugmok na lugmok sa kahibangan.

Ayoko na, ayokong-ayoko nang balikan pa

Mga masasayang araw, gabi at oras

Mga dating kaligayahan na sa ngayo’y nakabaon na lamang 
sa alaala ng kahapon.

Ayoko na, ayoko na!

Iyan ang mga katagang nasa aking isipan

Iyan ang mga katagang bumabalot sa aking katauhan

Iyan ang mga katagang nais kong paniwalaan at aking paninindigan

Dahil sa sakit ng dating pag-ibig na puno ng kahibangan.

Ngunit bakit hanggang ngayon ay tila umaasa pa rin

Bakit hanggang ngayon ay umaasa pa din

Bakit naglalaro sa aking isipan na muli ay siya’y makapiling?

Bakit tila ang puso’y hindi natuto sa dinanas na sugat at kabiguan din…

Haaaay! teka muna at itigil na nga. tandaang lahat ng dati ay pawang kahibangan lamang

Kahibangan na sa aking damdamin ay tila bumubulag nang buong tapang

Kahibangan lamang na nais kong wakasan at iwanan nang tuluyan

Ngunit bakit? Bakit may isang tinig o damdamin pa ring pilit umaasa

Umaasang may mangyaring maganda gayong wala naman talagang pag-asa

Pag-asa? Oo, umaasa. Bakit itong damdaming sawi

Ay hindi pa rin mapakali? Bakit umaasa pa rin na  may maganda pa ngang mangyayari?

Bakit tila hindi natuto ang puso sa gitna ng naranasang pasakit?

Puso, tama na. Bumangon ka’t idilat ang mga mata

Sa katotohanang sa pagitan ninyong dalawa

Ay ikaw lang naman ang umaasa

Tanggapin ang katotohanang ang lahat ng iyon 
Lahat ng mga iyon...ay wala lang naman pala sa kanya.

SPOKEN WORD POETRY: HINDI NA KAILANMAN MAGPAPAKATANGA PA

Katha ni: Junrey R. Belando

ITO ANG AKING BAGONG SIMULA.

Ilang beses ba akong nagbabasakali?

Ilang beses ko nga bang minaliit ang sarili

Para lamang sayo ay maging kapuri-puri?

Hindi isa, hindi rin dalawa, o tatlo, o maging lima!

Ngunit pag-ibig mo ba ay aking nasungkit

Sa gitna ng mga unos at mga tinahak na mga pasakit?

Isa, dalawa, tatlo, apat, lima

Limang mga katotohanan ang pilit kong pinagbubulagan

Pinilit ko ang sarili na ang mga piring sa aking mga mata ay hindi mamulat sa katotohanan

Katotohanang sa pag-ibig ko sayo ako ay nagpapakatanga.

Isa. Isang chat mo lang sa facebook dati ay kung ano nang saya!

Anong saya sa aking puso na sa aking mga pisngi ay nagpapasaya.

Dalawa. Dalawang beses yata tayong kumain sa labas

Bago ko nalamang lahat ng mga yun ay pagkukunwari lang pala at mga palabas.

Tatlo. Tatlong salita lang naman galing sayo ang lagi kong inaasam

Hindi ko mawari kung bakit ang mga katagang "I LOVE YOU" ay labis ang kapangyarihan.

Apat. Apat na segundo akong natulala bago umagos ang hindi ko 

mapigilang pagluha nung narealize ko kung gaano ako katanga.

Lima. Limang mga kataga sa ngayon ay laman ng aking diwa

Limang kataga ang isasabuhay ko sa aking bagong simula:

'HINDI NA KAILANMAN MAGPAPAKATANGA.'

PARA SA MGA NAIINIP

Ang saya ma-inlove. 

Pero mas masaya lalo na kung love ka din ng minamahal mo! At kung love ka nga niya, siguro magiging mas magaan ang pakiramdam mo dahil araw-araw may nagpapasayo, may mangungulit sayo, may kasama ka.

Pero paano kung sa love story ninyong dalawa, ikaw lang pala ang nagmamahal dahil hindi mo pa masabi na MAHALaga s'ya sayo? Natatakot kang sabihin sa kanya dahil baka magagalit. O baka masira ang pagkakaibigan ninyong dalawa. 

Kaya mo bang isugal ang pagkakaibigan ninyo sa nararamdam mo? Kung hindi, eh wag mo na lang ituloy lalo na kung ramdam mong hanggang KAIBIGAN lang naman ang turing n'ya sayo.

Siguro kung mahal ka din niya, hindi ka masasaktan nang palihim. Siguro kung alam din niya kung paano suklian ang pag-ibig na iyong damdamin, ay maaaring masasabi mong totoo nga pala ang sinaabi sa fairy tales na "they lived happily ever after." Kaso lang, sa fairy tales lang naman madalas nagkakaroon ng happy endings.

Napakabitter naman.

Actually, may happy endings naman talaga sa totoong buhay. Yun nga lang, sa ibang tao, hindi sayo. Don't worry, malay mo baka you will end up naman talaga to live happily ever after. Maybe not now, maybe later. :) Tiwala lang, kasi true love waits.

TANDAAN, true love exists. Kailan pa darating ang taong magpaparamdam sayo ng true love? Kung hindi mo pa sya kapiling ngayon, just wait. Keep on waiting and pray. Maybe hindi pa sa ngayon, dahil hinahanda pa ni Lord.

Bakit Hindi ka Crush ng Crush Mo?

Bakit hindi ka crush ng crush mo?

ANG SULATING ITO AY MULA SA PERSPECTIVE NG MGA TAONG NAGMAHAL AT NASAKTAN DAHIL SA ONE-SIDED LOVE.

Bakit hindi ka crush ng crush mo?

Complicated. 'Yan ang tunay na kasagutan.

Eh ang puso naman kasi eh! Ewan ko ba kung bakit 'yang puso na 'yan ay hindi ma-control-control. Ba't kasi kung ma-fall ay dun pa talaga sa taong ang hirap-hirap abutin?

Kung sino pa kasi yung taong ang hirap-hirap mapasayo, ay siya pa madalas ang pinambabalingan ng pansin ng damdamin! Siya pa madalas nagpapatibok ng damdamin. Siya pa madalas nagpapakilig. Hay! Wag nga kasing ma-fall kaagad. Ang hirap sayo, binibigyan ng meaning ang mga bagay na hindi naman big deal sa kanya.

But human as we are, we are vulnerable to love. Tao ka ba? Kung oo, you are vulnerable to love. Oo, love yan--mapa-puppy love, infatuation, o ano pa yan, it's still love. The problem is, you love at the wrong time, at the wrong person.

Coming from a person who have never been loved by the person he or she loves, ang sarap siguro ma-inlove sa taong love ka din ano?

Ang sarap siguro makipag-bonding and spend most of your time to the one whom you care and love who also loves you back the way you want to be loved!

You got to have time with her or him together, send sweet messages expressing how much you care and love each other, and everyday you are just secured because you know for a fact that you have someone in your life you can call your "second half."

Well, back to reality! Wala, wala kang girl or boy friend na matatawag eh. Loved one? Meron nga. Pero that "one" does not love you back! In short, love exists but it's only you who is in love. Ouch.

Back to the question: Bakit hindi ka crush ng crush mo?

Hindi ka crush ng crush mo dahil hindi ka n'ya type. Hindi ka n'ya type kaya kahit anong klaseng effort pa gagawin mo, kahit buhatin mo man ang buong mundo, kahit iaalay mo man ang mga bituin sa langit para sa kanya, kahit lumangoy ka man ng maraming karagatan para lamang sa kanya, yung mga effort mong yun ay sayang lamang sapagka't yun ay walang kwenta para sa kanya. Hindi kasi ikaw ang kumukumpleto sa kanyang buhay. Siya nga ang hinahanap ng iyong puso ngunit ibang tao naman ang hinahabol ng kanyang puso. 

Hindi ka crush ng crush mo dahil hindi s'ya ang nararapat sayo. Sometimes, we have the longing to belong to someone that's why we are vulnerable to fall in love to someone especially if that person shows care and concern for you. But take note, hindi lahat ng mga bagay ay bibigyan mo ng meaning. Yung iba sadyang caring lang talaga, caring for everybody. In short, marami kayo, kaya't wag kang magpapaloko dahil at the end of the day, it is so hard to bear if you already fell for someone who cared for you but they just disappear when you're already fallen. Sorry, you fell, without someone to catch you. 

Ang love kasi ay hindi yan karera na kailangan mong magmadali.

Love is something not to rush for. Wika nga nila, "True love waits."

It is better to be cheerful even if you are single. Happiness naman is a choice. Longing for company? How about calling your friends and spend time with them so that you won't feel alone? Or how about spend more time with your family? You can even increase your time joining your church events or local charities. You can even brace yourself and travel to places or commune with nature. Really, there's so much more you can do than think of being lonely. Malay mo, out of these things and more, dun mo makikilala ang someone na para sayo? Uy, huwag umasa. My point is, there's so many possibilities in life and all we have to do is enjoy what we have right now. ;)

My friend, love can wait. Trust me, darating at darating din ang taong mamahalin ka sa paraang deserve mo. ;)

Ready to Live Alone?

Note: I wrote this article when I was in Bacolod City to work in one of the BPO companies there, really far from my howmetown in Dumaguete City and very far from my family. This article was published when I was still a regular writer for EMME MAGAZINE, a magazine based in Japan.

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Ready to hop in to your new chapter as living independently? Here are some bonus tips to keep in mind before you bid goodbye from your original home.

Someone once told me that a person's character can grow over the test of time when he is far from his family, and thus when he live away from his comfort zone. In a personal note, I can attest to this as a fact.

When I first heard of a job opportunity away from home, I was thrilled and excited. I looked beyond and smiled knowing that it's gonna be an adventure and challenging experience knowing the fact that I'll get to live alone and yes, away from my comfort zone.

Whether you are going to study away from your home, you are destined to work at another state, you're a bachelor and you decide to live alone, or whatever the reason may be, here's some tips you MUST bear in mind before you pack your things and move to your new place.

1. Plan the day ahead.

It is important to lay down your plans before the day you transfer. Have a list of the things you'll need the most. Remember that it's gonna be tough to be away from your comfort one, hence you'll be needing a lot of strength to overcome some hurdles. Having a list of the DO's and DON'Ts is a plus for a successful living.

Make sure everything's ready before you move. Pack your things carefully and seek some help when you transport your stuff. Sometimes too much excitement leads you to oversee what's needed to be done. Just relax, act on your own pace, and free yourself from any anxieties. Remember, this is a new chapter if your life, thus you need to be wise enough to plan the day ahead.

2. Familiarize your new home.

Over a period of years, or maybe your lifetime, you will have to stay at this new place. For this reason, it's important to be familiar with your neighborhood. It's not really a must to meet all your neighbors but having a good relationship with your neighbors or to the residents next to your door is a plus.

Check out the landmarks near your place. Also be familiarize with the numbers and the authorities to call in cases of emergencies.

3. Be thrifty.

As a rookie on living by yourself, be mindful on your finances. Classify what your needs are from your wants. Learn to make your needs a priority. This includes your rent, transportation, and most of all, food.

Ready to make the move?

Mumunting Tinig ng Isang Pulubi

Mumunting Tinig ng Isang Pulubi

Katha ni: Junrey Belando

Mga batang pulubi, ang tahana'y nasa kalye

Mga mukhang musmos, namumuhay-pulubi

Sila'y pagmasdan, sana'y bigyang paki

Nanlilimos ng kalinga, hindi mapakali.

Umulan man o umaraw, maging sa lalim ng gabi

Patuloy ang hirap, pagsusumamo at pagsasabi

"Palimos po para may makain, mga sir, ma'am at ale

Ako'y namamalimos po, bigyang-awa, kahit kunti."

Namamalimos ng kalinga, sa mga magulang ay ulila

Hustisya ay nasaan, bakit hindi man lang mabigyang-awa?

Paano na lang ang yaring kinabukasan

Kung hanggang ngayo'y wala man lang maasahan?

Oo, kami yaong mga batang pulubi

Walang kwenta at kinamumuhian ng marami

Walang makain, salat sa pag-ibig

Walang patutunguhan, dwalang masasandalan.

    

Choose to Be Happy

Madalas nating nariring and mga katagang, "Happiness is a choice."

Isa ako sa mga naniniwala nito. Maraming beses ko na itong ginagamit, minsan ay nagiging mantra pa o motivation ko ang mga katagang ito sa mga panahong ako ay labis na nag-iisa, nalulungkot, o hindi kaya ay nagagalit. Masasabi kong, epektebo naman ito sa akin.

Sa mga panahong malungkot ka, you have the freedom to be happy. All you have to do is to change paradigm, shift your perception of the circumstances into something better. Wika nga nila, be optimistic, kahit na gulung-gulo na ang sitwasyon. When faced with certain negative thoughts or experiences, I think all we have to do is to think outside the box, explore whatever possibilities therein, do not be discouraged. 

Even at times when you are feeling blue and things seems to be too hard or difficult, just remember that there are two sides of the coin. You may not face the bright side at a particular time, but remember, there's a rainbow after the rain. 

On top of these, malimit ko ding naiisip yung nabasa kong quote noong bata pa lamang ako, at ito'y nabasa ko sa isa sa mga kalendaryo namin sa bahay. The quote says, "If you think there's an uphill struggle, just think of the view from the top." Tama nga naman; maaring mahirap ang pinagdadaanan mo ngayon sa iyong paglalakbay sa buhay pero isipin mo na lang ang ganda ng buhay kung lahat ng paghihirap mo ngayon ay iyo nang malalampasan. Hindi ba't tagumpay ang nais makamit? 

Higit sa lahat, huwag kakalimutan na ang Diyos ay naririyan. Siya'y lubos na makapangyarihan na handang tumulong at gumabay sayo. Ang Kanyang pagmamahal ay labis na makakapagtatag sa atin. Trust me. I've experienced all the troubles in life that you can never imagine. In spite of these, His amazing grace captured me when I was lost. Now that I'm found, I cannot just help but to thank Him because He has been carrying me all along and I know, He can make you feel assured too. 

Trust in God, shake all the worries, and choose to be happy! 

Maala-ala Mo Kaya

Pangalan: JUNREY R. BELANDO

Edad: 26 

Contact #: 09264608654

Address: UPPER CAMANJAC, DUMAGUETE CITY, NEGROS ORIENTAL

Dear Ate Charo,

Isang pagpupugay po para sa inyo at sa mga bumubuo ng MMK!

Naalala ko ang sambit ng aking mga guro sa kasabihang, “Ang kahirapan ay hindi hadlang sa pagtatagumpay.” Marahil ito ang nag-udyok kaya naman ay natuto akong bumangon sa tulong ng Dios, sa bawat pagkakataong itinumba ako ng mga unos ng buhay.

Tawagin n'yo po akong Junrey, 26 years old mula sa Dumaguete City at ito ang aking kwento:

Laking-mahirap kaming limang magkakapatid na pilit itinaguyod ng aming mga magulang: si tatay ay isang magsasaka, housewife naman si nanay. Sa kasamaang palad, sumakabilang-buhay ang aking ama limang araw lamang matapos ang aking valedictory speech sa high school. Masakit mang isiping hindi na nga siya nakadalo sa graduation ko, iniwan n’ya pa kaming buong mag-anak nang tuluyan. Hindi n’ya man lang inantay na saksihan ang aking pagtatapos sa kolehiyo, ang aking pagtanggap ng mga sari-saring medalya at parangal. Sinabi ko sa sarili kong napaka-unfair ng kanyang paglisan.

Upang may maipantawid-gutom, kailangan kong tumulong sa pamilya kaya kahit nag-aaral pa ako noon, madami akong pinasukang raket. Kahit nasa elemntarya pa lang ako, tagapagtinda na ako ng ice candy ng grade 1 teacher ko, at sa tuwing sabado ay nagkakapera rin ako sa tuwing ako’y pinagwawalis sa bakuran at pinagpapa-garden ng ibang kapitbahay na mga naaawa sakin.

Naging full scholar po ako kahit nasa high school pa lang hanggang sa napagtapos ko ang college. Magandang tulong naman iyon sakin sapagkat full scholarship ang na-avail ko dahil siguro sa mga consistent awards at pagka-valedictorian ko sa elementary at high school. Nakita din siguro ng teachers ko ang pagkaseryoso ko sa pag-aaral buhat ng mga magagandang scores, kaya naman pambato ako lagi sa school sa tuwing may mga paligsahan sa division.

Mahirap para sa akin na kahit anumang gusto kong mag-aral ay kulang naman kami sa resources; isang kahod, isang tuka lang kaming mag-anak. Gayunpaman, ang sipag at determinasyon ang nagdala sakin sa mga regional competitions at natuwa naman ako dahil ito ang dahilan kung bakit makapunta sa iba’t ibang lugar sa aming rehiyon.

Ngunit para sakin, ang challenging na pangyayari na naranasan ko ay noong January 1 sa taong 2006, nang naitulak ko ang aking tatay na s’ya niyang ikinatumba niya sa lupa. Lasing na lasing si tatay noon, at nasa kasagsagan ng kanilang pag-aaway ni mama dahil gusto niya itong patayin. Sino ba namang anak ang may gustong masaktan ang kanyang itay? Napakasakit sa aking puso upang datnan ang tagpong iyon. Naghiwalay nga ng tuluyan sila mama at papa. Dala ni Mama ang mga kapatid ko at nanirahan sila sa tiyahin ko samantalang ami nlang ni papa ang natira sa aming bahay. Halos gabi-gabi ang aking iyak ngunit sa umaga o sa school palangiti naman ako. Naawa sakin ang mga teachers ko kaya inalagaan din naman nila ako—suportado nila ang aking snacks at baon. Sa araw ng Sabado ay nagtrabaho ako sa kani-kanilang bahay upang maglinis.

Ngunit matapos ang ilang buwang hiwalayan, napansin kong umuubo na si tatay na may haong dugo. Sinabi koi to kay nanay at bumalik naman siya sa amin. Nalaman naming may respiratory infection si papa. Halos isang taon din siyang nakaratay sa kama.

Hanggang sa lumala ang kanyang kondisyon at tuluyan na nga siyang nanghina. Tumutulo luha ko habang pinagmamasdan ang kanyang kondisyon na nahihirapan huminga, habang pinapaypayan. Yun ang dahilan bakit hindi siya nakadalo sa Valedictory Speech ko nung high school.

Isang hapon ng Sabado, habang galling ako sa bahay ng teacher ko na pinagtratrabahuan ko, napansin ko nlang na may kumpol ng tao sa pamamahay naming. Kinabahan ako….

Pagpasok ko sa bahay, humahagulgol ang aking nanay at mga kapatid. Pumanaw na si itay…Masakit, sobrang sakit na iwan ka ng iyong ama. Hindi ko pa naibigay sa kanya ang tagumpay na pinangako ko! Hindi ko pa naipadama sa kanya na proud akong siya naging ama ko.

Buong akala ko ay yun lang ang dagok sa buhay mag-anak namin. Nagkamali pala ako, sapagkat halos wala pa ngang isang buwan nang malibing si Papa, ay naroon na sa tahanan namin ang lalaking kasama-kasama ni Mama. Galit ako kay Mama at sa kanyang kinakasama, sa Dios at lalo na sa aking sarili. Kung hindi lang sana ako umalis ng buhay upang mag-working student, siguro ay mababantayan ko ang aking Mama!

Tila anong paglalaro ba ng tadhana ay halos hindi ko na matanggap ang sumunod na kaganapan nang nagtanan ang aking Mama at ng kanyang lalaki. Nabulabog kaming magkakapatid—ang aming bunsong lalaki ay dinala ng aming eldest at magkasama silang nanirahan sa kanyang pinagtatrabuhan bilang isang kasambahay. Samantalang ang dalawang kapatid ko naming babae ay nakikituloy sa aming tiyahin, samantalang ako nama’y tinuloy ang pagiging working student.

Malaking iskandalo iyon para sa aming mag-anak. Masaklap pa ay nagtanan silang dalawa. Ngunit sandaling panahon lang iyon dahil may sariling pamilya at anak na pala ang kinakasama ni Mama. Mahirap tanggapin nginit naging lasinggera si Mama, sumasama sa inuman ng mga tambay sa labas.

Dulot ng sakit at hiya, si Mama ay lumayo at namasukan bilang isang katulong. Akala namin nagbago na ang mama ngunit doon ay nabuntis siya. Oo, sa umpisa init na init ang ulo ko sa batang nasa sinapupunan niya dahil hindi ko matanggap-tanggap ang mga nangyayari.

Umuwi samin si Mama ngunit ni isang beses hindi sya humingi ng tawad, hindi n’ya ako kinausap. Hindi s’ya nag-explain, hindi ko din naman s’ya pinansin. Oo nga’t iisa ang aming bubong ngunit ni minsan ay hindi ko siya pinansin.

Ang isang pangyayaring nagpabago sa takbo ng tinginan namin bilang mag-anak ay nang isinugod naming si Mama sa ospital mga isang buwan matapos n’yang iniluwal ang half sister namin. Alam mo yung naghihikahos s’ya at hirap na hirap huminga. Ang akala ko na sa mga drama sat v lang nakikita ay nangyari sa akin. Sakay ng traysikel, kita naming na hindi na sya humihinga. Yung pakiramdam na gusto mong sabihin sa mga drayber na padaanin kami, at nang nasa emergency room na ay buong emosyon kong nakikiusap sa mga nurses at doctor na tulungan si mama. Nahirapan silang kunan siya ng bp, kinabitan ng oxygen at dextrose saka tinawag ako ng doctor at pinagalitan kung bakit inantay pang umabot sa ganuong kondisyon bago dinala sa ospital si mama.

Tumatak sa aking isipa ang sinabi n’yang gagawin nila lahat ang abot ng kanilang makakaya ngunit sinabing tatagan ang loob sa kung anuman ang maaring mangyari sa kanya.

Kahit anumang galit mo ay mapawing-lahat kung madadaratnan mo na pala ang iyong nanay na naghihirap. Na-comatose sya sa loob ng isang linggo. Halos ilan-libu ang gastusin sa kanyang medisina at laboratory araw-araw at sinagot ito ng Dios. Nag-aambag-ambag churchmates ko, mga kaklase, mga teachers, at mga government offices nang dumulog ako sa radyo upang humingi ng tulong at dininig naman talaga ng Dios ang panalangin ko.

Laking tuwa naming nung nagkamulat na si Mama. Napahagulgol na lamang siya, Hindi nya man masabi, ay alam kong nagsisisi sya.

Sa ngayon, masaya kaming magkakapatid kasama si Mama at ang aming half sister sa issang bubong. Ngayon, masasabing kumpleto na ulit ang aming pamilya. Ako naman ay biniyayaan ng Dios at ngayo’y magiging isang senior high school teacher na.

Tunay ngang, good things happen to those who wait. Ako din ay isang living testimony na poverty is not a hindrance to success. Above all, to God be all the glory!

Top Summer Getaways of the Philippines

It’s official! Summer heat is on, and summer parties are everywhere in the Philippines. 

Are you ready to get soaked in fun, thrill and excitement? If you have plans to travel to the Philippines, you should know where the top summer destinations are. Read on and know why the Philippines should be on top of your list this summer.

The country's more than 7, 107 beautiful islands surely lure both local and international tourists alike to spend their best summer vacation and enjoy its most popular and attractive islands; indulge in sports activities along white sand beaches, fine weather and much more!

Luzon

Luzon is the largest among the three main island groups of the Philippine archipelago. It is home to lots of wonderful places and amazing tourist spots. Here are the top 5 places you should go to at this northern part of the archipelago.

1. Baguio City (Baguio, Philippines)

Topping our list among the favored summer destinations in Luzon is Baguio City. It is one of the most popular cities in the Philippines and has been considered the country`s Summer Capital for the past 99 years.

Otherwise known as the City of Pines, this summer capital is a highly urbanized city located in the province of Benguet in Northern Luzon. The city is known for its cold climate owing to its elevation, which is why most tourists in the country flock the city in the verge of the summer heat in the Philippines.

Explore its famous attractions such as the astounding view of Mines View Park, the Mansion (home to Philippine Presidents during their visits to Baguio), the Wright Park (just near the Mansion, with its beautiful gardens and landscape), Camp John Hay (which prides itself with 18-hole golf course), Burnham Park (where tourists can go picnic or row boats and relax), or stroll around and enjoy the views of Session Road where commercial and business structures abound. First class hotels, restaurants, department stores and shopping centers are to be found in this area.

Not only its amazing scenic views but its variety of historical and cultural attractions, Baguio has become a desirous tourist destination for Filipinos and foreign tourists alike.

And oh, don't forget to pack along with you your thick coats!

2. Mayon Volcano (Legazpi City, Albay)

For the longest time, Mayon is the answer to Japan's Mt. Fuji; exuding a panoramic beauty that attracts a myriad of tourists from around the globe. (www.filipiknow.net/mayon-volcano-shocking-facts)

Mayon Volcano is world famous because of its reputably perfect cone shape and form among all volcanos in the world. It is also the most active volcano in the Philippines.

Since 1616, Mayon has erupted 47 times. Proud with its almost symmetric conical shape, Mayon Volcano rises to 2460 meters above Albay Gulf. Its last eruption was in May of last year.

3. Hundred Islands (Alaminos, Pangasinan)

Yes, it's difficult to choose which among the 7107 islands to explore first in the country. But if you'd like to hit about 100 islands all at once, come to the Hundred Islands Natural Park in Pangasinan.

There are 123 islands and some of them are called as "Devil's Island," "Governor's Island" and "Kissing Island." And of course, don't forget your bathing suits because its clear blue-green hues of water will surely get your attention!

4. Underground River (Puerto Princesa, Palawan)

This Subterranean River National Park is one of the most distinguished protected areas of the Philippines. It contains an 8.2 km long river that directly flows to the sea. It was recently declared as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Nicknamed as a city in a forest, Puerto Princesa is where this underground river can be found. This underground river is part of the national park which is home to 800 plant species, including almost 300 trees, 195 bird species, 30 mammals, 19 reptiles, and 8 bat species--truly a model of biodiversity!

Don't forget to visit the astounding view of Coron Palawan when you get there! ;)

5. Puerto Galera (Oriental Mindoro)

Declared a Man and Biosphere Reserve of UNESCO in 1973, Puerto Galera has been the where-to-go summer destination for city-dwellers for beach activities.

Water is certainly the main attraction of Puerto Galera. Crystal clear and shimmering especially during hot summer months, the sea framing Puerto Galera is ideal for swimming, sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving.

Tourists who had gone there certainly look forward to the next visit!

Visayas

The second largest group of islands in the Phillipines next to Luzon is Visayas.

Lying at the heart of the Philippine archipelago, the Visayas group of islands is well known and highly visited for its top selection of sun-sational summer destinations. It is composed of the major islands of Cebu, Bohol, Negros, Panay and Samar.

Below are the top places you should never miss when you go to Visayas.

1. Boracay Island (Boracay, Aklan) ---- TEMPORARILY CLOSED AT THIS TIME

Out of all islands all over the world, Travel+Leisure Magazine chose Boracay as its Best Overall Island of 2012.

Also, voted the world's best beach by the Sun Herald Australia and Harper's, Boracay is the perfect island getaway with its warm blue waters, powdery fine white sand shoreline, and a palm-fringe 4-kilometer beach.

Experience water sports and activities such as sailing, wind surfing, snorkelling, diving, and jet skiing. Fun here doesn't end when the sun sets; Boracay's nightlife lures one and all to bars and restaurants serving food, drinks and fun until dawn.

2. Bohol Island (Bohol, Philippines)

Bohol is popular for its enchanting and captivating scenic views like the chocolate hills, world class beach resorts, beautiful diving spots, and astounding wildlife including the smallest known primate, the Tarsiers.

Get to relax at the pristine waters and white beaches that abound in Panglao Island. Or better yet, be amazed at the 1268 beautiful and perfect cone shaped chocolate hills. The shape of the hills are almost uniform and ranges from 30-50 meters high!

Summer is the best time to go if you want to witness the Chocolate Hills of Bohol!

3. Cebu City (Cebu, Philippines)

Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu City is the second most important city of the country next to Manila. It has its own international airport and seaport. It is the home of  Sinulog Festival with colorful costumes and street dancing. The oldest known Spanish settlement in the country is in Cebu City, dating from the 15th century.

Tour around Magellan's Cross, Sto. Nino cathedral, various beach resorts and more!

4. Apo Island (Negros Oriental)

Do you love adventure and exciting excursions under the sea? Then come to Apo Island which is just less than an hour trip from Dumaguete City, the capital of Negros Oriental. Be in love with marine nature at its best as you go on scuba diving. At present, Apo Island is home to at least 650 documented species of fish, and estimated to have over 400 species of corals. Apo Island is one of the world's best known community-organized marine sanctuaries, and as such, it has been well documented by the global science communities.

Mindanao

1. Camiguin

Camiguin is the second smallest province of the Philippines. Nevertheless, this small island has promising wonders you must see. Camiguin is referred to as "Born of Fire." This spectacular island has 7 volcanoes and several volcanic domes. It has also clear waters and thus acclaimed as one of the top dive spots worldwide.

2. Davao

Davao is where Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines, is located. Grab the chance to trek its popular nature trails for an unforgettable summer adventure. Famous spots you can visit in Davao include Mt. Apo, Philippine Eagle Center, Crocodile Park, Samal Island and Pearl farm, Paradise Island and much more!

Activities you will enjoy in Davao include but are not limited to beach and water sports, scuba diving, snorkelling, boat sailing, river rafting, and the like! You also must try their famous durian fruit and durian candies!

3. Bukidnon

Bukidnon is a highland paradise in the heart of Mindanao. It is home to the world's biggest pineapple plantation and boast of a classic golf course dating back in 1928. Landlocked by mountain ranges and forest reserves, Bukidnon is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The entire place is tailored-fit for eco-adventure activities like mountain climbing, trail hiking, trekking, rappelling, and more!

One must definitely agree that the Philippines is a haven for fun and adventure. Its geographical setting is tailored fit for an exciting and fun-filled summer getaway.

Blessed with a rich environment-lush forest, tropical islands, white beaches, rivers, lakes, and mountains, friendly and hospitable people, who are always happy to welcome guests and visitors, the Philippines should on top of your list for your next summer vacation.

BONUS TIPS:

When planning your activities outside for summer, take into account the following:

1. Be free to do anything (just don't break the law!).

Fun and excitement can be enjoyed the most when you free yourself from all inhibitions. Experience life at its best, savor the moment by doing things beyond ordinary and when you go home, you'll surely have a moment worth keeping for! Be active to do anything for a fun-filled summer, just don't break the law!

2. Learn something new. Okay, this is something that we actually should be doing every day. Summer is usually a time to relax and be free from your usual routine at work, at home. So, why not use your spare time to learn a new skill, a new language perhaps?

Whatever the case maybe, go, and grab the opportunity to learn something new.

3. Relax. Summer wouldn't be fun at all if during this time you won't be able to relax. Our human body needs rest. Summer calls for a relaxing experience. Give yourself a break and relax, free yourself from stress and other worries. Just like other people, you too, deserve to relax.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and give yourself a chance to personally experience that indeed, IT'S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES!

(All photos are from public domain and based on search results from Google Images. The author of this blog doesn't own them, credits to the rightful owner.)