Breezy Baguio!

Baguio City. This is one of the cities i love visiting. It's just my fourth time to be in this place but i fell inlove already. I once dreamt of living here. This fourth visit of mine is for the Team Building program of our company, Golden Acres Food Service Corp. I was fortunate enough to have been part of this. I enjoyed the trip even though it was just like an overnight vacation. We stayed at Baguio Country Club. We went to our company's farm. I must say, I was ammased with it. I would not be writing much, rather i will be posting the pictures i have taken with my humble digi cam. These are the photos that i will definitely treasure, for it will always make me reminsce the beauty of Baguio City. ooop.. i almost forgot. we even caught Manny Pacquiao here, while he is under training for the Cotto fight. I think it is in the heights of the Manny-Jinky issue. I became a papparazi. Here are the pics:

TOP TEN: AMERICAN IDOL FINALISTS

American Idol is undeniably the best Singing Search on earth to date.

It produced numerous good singers that dominates the charts. All through out the season, the show features lots of interesting contestants. And I Am a Big Fan. Hence, here's the list of my Top Ten Favorite Idol Finalist.

1. KELLY CLARKSON - She's the original Idol. The singing idol from Season 1 certainly is and will be the most successful Idol ever. Judges were never wrong on their praises to this lady. She's got issues with her size but nonetheless she look radiantly beautiful. Thus, making her on the top of my lists. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: My Life Would Suck Without You, Since You've Been Gone, Breakaway, Already Gone, A Moment Like This. 2. JORDIN SPARKS - Young and Beautiful. This singing idol from Season 6 has one of the most powerful voices in Idol run. Despite her age she still managed to portray very powerful performances that eventually landed her the title. I remember watching her in every episode of Season 6 and whew, i was just but mesmerized as always. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Tattoo, No Air, One Step at a Time, This is My Now, Battlefield. 3. DAVID ARCHULETA - Charming and Youthful. Hailed from Season 7 of idol, one of the earliest front runner but managed only to be on the 2nd spot. He is the most loved among any other Idols. He have tasted both of Simon's good and bad criticisms. I really like the way he brings his self to the public, seems very approachable and appreciative. He's been to Manila for a back-to-back concert with David Cook, and of course, I was there. And to mention, he's been dominating the charts here and there. Kudos Archu. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Crush, A Little Too Not Over You, Touch My Hand, Your Eyes Don't Lie, Zero Gravity. 4. KRIS ALLEN - Looks and Voice. He's got both. For me this idol from Season 8 has the most unique and very distinguishable voice among any others. He performs each song from his heart, good or bad comments are accepted by him. Probably not the best singer on his batch, but thanks to his good looks, America voted and placed him to where he is now. I have high hopes for this man. May he be successful. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Heartless, No Boundaries, Everything. 5. CARRIE UNDERWOOD - Country and Classic. The most awarded singing idol, pride of Season 4. She been very successful on her genre. I wasn't able to watch much of the Season 4 but seeing this idol making big waves on the music industry makes me proud not only of her but of the show as well. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Jesus Takes the Wheel, Home Sweet Home, Before He Cheats. 6. ANOOP DESAI - This alumni of season 8, got the voice, voice that Simon himself praises. Yet, another Indian to make it to the Elite Finalists of Idol. Anoop was able to create an Idol history, breaking the idol usual 12 - finalists per season, Anoop was included and became the 13th finalist of his season. I was once watching the audition rounds as my little cousin said i have a big resemblance of him. CONTRIBUTING FACTOR: My Prerogative, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Everything I Do, Always on my Mind. 7. BLAKE LEWIS - Beat Box and Hip. Runner Up of Season 6, made his way to the top by showing his unique way of interpreting songs. His beat box style to the song you Give Love a Bad Name was indeed remarkable. I really like him during the Season 6 run from the start until the end along with Jordin. I hope he can make it to the music industry and make it big. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: You Give Love A Bad Name, Geek in the Pink, How Many Words. 8. RAMIELLE MALUBAY - Cute and Bubbly. Proud Filipina. One of the early faves but had deteriorated performances as the contest goes by. Simon praised her for her powerful voice. I really am very proud of her as she is proud of where she came from. I know it'll be hard for her to penetrate the main stream but I'm keeping my fingers crossed. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Alone, In My Life, You Don't Have to Say You Love Me, Against All Odds. 9. DAUGHTRY - Rock and Successful. He was not even included in the Top 3 Finalists, but he can be considered as one of the top 3 most successful idols along with Underwood and Clarkson. He's got Grammys and his made big waves on the music industry. I like his style and i hope his music lives on and on. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Home, It's Not Over , What About Now. 10. DAVID COOK - Consistent and Vibrant. Cook's victory over Archuleta is a major dismay for me, but this big winner of Season 7 proved that he is more than deserving of the title and he lives on the very sense of it. He's been consistently great with all of his performances. Rocked Manila with Archuleta last May 2009, one of the biggest events in Philippine Concert scene. CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: Come Back To Me, Always be My Baby, Time of My Life. Awaiting for Season 9. Less Paula Abdul, I hope the show is again to produce batch of great singing idols. Mark Bryan V Garcia

VOTERS EDUCATION

PAANO BA ANG TAMANG PAG-BOTO?

Here: Watch and Learn

I appreciate the effort GMA NEWS and PUBLIC AFFAIRS have put into, to help us, the voters, in knowing the what to do's this forthcoming elections. I personally am thankful that these kinds of materials are now being circulated as I am not fully aware just yet of what to do. I have the basic knowledge I must say, but wouldn't it be great, should we learn the necessary things to do, thus not messing up the very important vote we'll have. Remember, it only happens once. So be the best you can be. Vote Wisely. Vote correctly.

Here's one of the few videos, mainly designed for the Voters' Education. It was made by GMA 7. With Sexbomb Dancers as its' main instruments of disseminating the information.

I had fun time watching it. Some may find it obscure, irrating or OA-is, but for me, it is TIMELY, ACCURATE, EASY TO FOLLOW and yet the most ENTERTAINING form of Information Dissemination.

Eleksyon 2010

Who Am I Voting for !?!?

• PRESIDENT : MANNY VILLAR

• VICE PRESIDENT: LOREN LEGARDA

SENATORS

1. 1. MIRRIAM SANTIAGO
2. 2. BONG BONG MARCOS
3. 3. GILBERT REMULLA
4. 4. ADEL TAMANO
5. 5. PIA CAYETANO
6. 6. SONIA ROCO
7. 7. BONG REVILLA
8. 8. SATUR OCAMPO
9. 9. LIZA MAZA
10. 10. TITO SOTTO
11. 11. SERGE OSMENA
12. 12. RAMON MITRA

• GOVERNOR: NANO TANGSON

• VICE GOVERNOR: GERARDO NOVERAS

BOARD MEMBER

1. 1. IAN ABORDO
2. 2. PEDRO ONG
3. 3. BUTCH FRANCISCO
4. 4. CESAR PIMINTEL

• MAYOR: ANABELLE TANGSON

• VICE MAYOR: TEDDY MACATIAG

COUNCILOR

1. 1. JASON MARTINEZ
2. 2. TOTONG WEE
3. 3. MENELIO MARZAN
4. 4. CHRISTOPHER USITA
5. 5. EDUARDO PABILLO
6. 6. FRANCISCO MALIWANAG
7. 7. NORMINDA QUERIJERO

I am already decided, as early as now. And I will go out on May 10 2010 to vote. I am looking forward to it. I have my own standards on choosing the candidates who I am voting for. I respect yours' hope you do mine.

Your Home in Bohol

GRAND LUIS LODGE

A very humble hotel situated in the heart of Dauis, Bohol. It truly lives up to its' promise of providing us home while on a vacaton in Bohol.

This place is perfect for relaxation. Should you be looking for a hide away. Be here. It provides ambiance that is very soothing for you to get lots of rest.

I fell in love with the hotel. Apart from its' resume that can boosts a lot of qualities. It is a winner when it comes to its' staffers. They are the most polite, most accommodating people I have ever met in my life. They will provide you service that is more than what you will expect. It is very refreshing to wake up in the morning and seeing these people smiling at you. It's definitely a good way to start your morning. They will let you feel that you are at home. I've always been thankful that I've met them. For, I, work as a Customer Service Representative, it made me realize that my job is worth staying for. It's fun dealing with people. Putting smile on their faces is a rewarding experience. Only difference between me and the Grand Luis staffers is that, i deal with my customers thru phone, whole them, physically. My sincerest thanks to all of you. I may have not remembered all your name, but you are all counted, special mention goes to Kuya Eddie (the best ever), Analyn (so nice to meet you), Rochell, (thanks for staying with us on the Videoke bar) and Cher (tnx for the time). Analyn (tnx for helping us with the reservation) .You did a fantastic job.

The rate was very affordable. We were able to avail of the 1500 peso- rate per room, already inclusive of breakfast and usage of its amenities and facilities. Apart from those, you are as well entitled to a free transfer from airport/seaport to the hotel and vice versa. Booking for reservation isn't really very hard. You may just visit their website at www.grandluislodge.com and take it from there. We booked our accomodation 2 months ahead of time, no need for you to provide them a deposit. Just show up there. BTW: just additional info. The room is good for 2 pax, should you have another company, an addition of 450 pesos will be included. Actually, not bad. It already includes breakfast.

The food. It was just but, AMAZING. This can surely be added on their resume, delicious foods are served in every meal. It is worth every penny you spend. I would like to commend their wide range of juices. Fruit juices i mean. My personal favorite was the watermelon juice. You can taste the freshness. It has a twist in it. Can't explain really. We were not just full with beautiful sceneries but full with foods as well.

Just to set your expectations, Grand Luis Lodge. Isn't really near the tourist spots Bohol hosts. I still remember we spent like 3 more hours to travel to Chocolate Hills in Carmen Bohol. While another 1 hour travel to the Panglao beaches. But no worries, they have a shuttle that can take you at those spots. You just have to pay a little extra.

I must say that they provide a very good service. Something that they can boast. It has always been a great pleasure for me to have experienced staying at this hotel. No amount of words can actually describe the happiness I've felt during those times we stayed there. This was my first major vacation. It costs a lot. But, why should i regret spending if the service you will receive is more than worth what you paid for.

I have been encouraging some other friends to check out Grand Luis Lodge, and so far, one of them just vacationed recently. I will continue spreading words for you.

Grand Luis Lodge : A Paradise, We would all want.

8.5 stars/10. Check out the simple photos I took while there.

Miss You Like Crazy

Am I a big fan of John Lloyd - Bea love team? The answer is Yes. I have always looked forward into seeing these two work together on TV, Movie etc. I believe that among other actors and actresses of their generation, they shine the brightest. One of the best piece of work the love team has worked for is "One More Chance." I can still remember myself crying and laughing with different scenes. It was really something that you would like to watch over and over again. Miss You Like Crazy. probably one of my favorite songs, that eventually was adopted to a movie. I was too excited to have known that my favorite love team is in the works for the movie. I would like to say that this movie made me reunite with my Best Friend, whom i had a feud for about like 7 months, we have not seen each other for that long. It was really tough since we were very close, a closeness that is very extraordinary. I received a text from her, inviting me to watch the movie. I immediately said yes. And we met up at Gateway Mall. We were ver casual first, but as time passes by, we didn't notice that we were actually acting like we are so close that nothing has previously happened. And we're set to watch. Here's my words : It is safe to say, that many may agree, with my disappointment and lamentations. I did not like the movie. I was a bit disappointed with how the movie went. The story was very simple. It revolved around rivers. There's less kilig. I do not like how the scenes were connected. I would not say much. For i might just hurt some. What i am trying to imply is that, this movie didn't level up with the previous movies they made, or that of, those movies at Cathy Molina's helm. I may be this disappointed, but nevertheless, I am still a Fan. And will remain as one. Miss You Like Crazy = 4.5/10 stars.

my AMERICAN IDOL Judging Stint

Bowled over by Blake, Lakisha, Bon Jovi on ‘American Idol’

Posted date: May 08, 2007 ROCK night is one of the most awaited themes in Star World’s “American Idol.” Last week’s show featured one of mainstream American rock and roll’s most enduring acts, Bon Jovi, showing our Idols how to edge it up for the stage. After Wednesday night, every one couldn’t get enough of Blake Lewis’ funky version of “You Give Love a Bad Name,” while Lakisha Jones bared her soulfulness with a dramatic performance of “This Ain’t a Love Song.” Judges Randy, Simon, and Paula gave them the thumbs up, and so did 2bU! readers. For their entries to the Star World-2bU! U B the Judge promo, Angela, Mark Bryan, and Pio all win special premium prizes from Star World and “American Idol.” Congratulations, guys! To claim your prize, please call Cindy Corrales at 893-7472 to 73. You too can win exciting prizes from the world’s biggest singing competition! Catch “American Idol” tonight at 6 p.m. live via satellite (or 8 p.m. primetime and 11:30 p.m.) on Star World, give us your name and contact details, comment on the finalists’ performance, styling, song choice, audience impact, and even fashion in five sentences or less and e-mail to starworld.ph@gmail.com. The finals are almost here, people, let’s hear it! We know there’s an inner Simon in you. Here’s what our winning trio thought of last week’s Bon Jovi bonanza: Angela Santiago: Blake did so well with his rendition of “You Give Love A Bad Name.” He was able to make it his own without destroying the song. I was disappointed that Jordin did not give her usual breathtaking performance, but I still believe she deserves to be in the finale. Mark Bryan Garcia: Most of last Wednesday’s performances of famous Bon Jovi songs were amazing! Phil was pretty good and the audiences enjoyed his performance very much, but then Simon (as always) had to be a killjoy. Lakisha’s performance was so fantastic that it even prompted Simon to kiss her. The best performance of the night, of course, was Blake. The beatboxer was the most fashionable and he really made the song sound more exciting. I loved it! Blake deserves to be the next American Idol. Pio II Tabernilla: It was a rocking Bon Jovi night and, yup, Lakisha is definitely back, redeeming herself with her golden pipes and powerful rendition of “This Ain’t A Love Song.” Blake’s new hair color and big risk to stylize “You Give Love A Bad Name” was very hip and entertaining.

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"The One That Got Away"

In your life, you’ll make note of a lot of people. Ones with whom you shared something special and ones who will always mean something. There’s the one you first kissed, the one you first loved, the one you lost your virginity to, the one you put on a pedestal, the one you’re with…and the one that got away. Who is the one that got away? I guess it’s that person with whom everything was great, everything was perfect, but the timing was just wrong. There was no fault in the person nor flaw in the chemistry, but the cards just didn’t fall the right way, I suppose. I believe in the fact that ending up with someone, finding a longtime partner that is, does not lie merely in the other person. I can actually argue that an equal part, or maybe even the greater part, has to do with the matter of timing. It has to do with you being ready to settle down and commit to someone in a way that goes beyond the little niceties of giddy romance. How often have you gone through it without even realizing it? When you’re not ready to commit in that mature manner, it doesn’t matter who you’re with, it just doesn’t work. Small problems become big; inconsequential become deal breakers simply because you’re not ready and it shows. It’s not that you and the person you’re with are no good; it’s just that it’s not yet right, and little things become the flashpoint of that fact. Then one day you’re ready. You really are. And when this happens you’ll be ready to settle down with someone. He or she may not be the most perfect, they might not be the brightest star of romance to ever have burned in your life, but it’ll work because you’re ready. It’ll work because it’s the right time and you’ll make it work. And it’ll make sense, it really will. So that day comes when you’re finally making sense of things, and you find yourself to be a different person. Things are different, your approach is different, you finally understand who you are and what you want and you’ve become ready because the time has truly arrived. And mind you, there’s no telling when this day will come. Hopefully, you’re single or be in a long-term relationship, or be married with three kids…it doesn’t matter. All you know is that you have changed. And for some reason, the one that got away, is the first person you think about. You’ll think about them because you’ll wonder, “What if they were here today?” , “What if we were together now, with me as I am and not as I was?” .The one that got away is– the biggest “What if?” you’ll have in your life. If you’re married, you’ll just have to accept the fact that the one that got away, got away. Believe me, no matter how fairy tale you think your marriage is, this can happen to the best of us. But hopefully you’re mature enough to realize that you’re already with the one you’re with and this is just another test of your commitment, one which will just strengthen your marriage when you get past it. Sure, you’ll think about him/her every so often, but it’s alright. It’s never nice to live with a “might have been,” but it happens. Maybe the one that got away is the one who’s already married. In which case it’s the same thing. You just have to accept and know that your memories of that person will probably bring a nice little smile to your lips in the future when you’re old and gray and reminiscing. But if neither of that is the case, then it’s different. What do you do if it’s not yet too late? Simple –find him or find her. The very existence of a “one that got away” means that you’ll always wonder…what if you got that one? Ask him out to coffee. Ask her out to a movie. It doesn’t matter if you’ve dropped in from out of nowhere. You’d be surprised, you just might be “the one that got away” as well for the person who is your “the one that got away.” You might drop in from out of nowhere and it won’t make a difference. If the timing is finally right, it’ll all just fall into place somehow. It would be a great feeling in the end, to be able to say to someone, “Hey you, you’re the one that almost got away.” (Mark J. Macapagal, The Manila Times)