( I follow everyone back who follows me. ♥ )

Mt. Timbak - Scaling the third-highest Peak in Luzon

Scaling Mount Timbak was really such a great experience! Meeting with new folks, be inspired by the locals, sharing insights and laughing over silly jokes with the Conqueror Outdoor Club it was indeed a meaningful and fun experience that I will treasure forever.

Cagbalete Island Experience - Php 1,200 Cheapest Budget Ever!

Glad our CAGBALETE ISLAND Trip was a success. Thanks to Ms. Tess of Villa Cleofas who answered all of my inquiries and to Josiah Sicad of Lakas Trip. I'm glad that I stumbled upon his blog for this made our journey possible in the cheapest way.

Calaguas Island - Beach Bum's Paradise

What I love in Calaguas Island is its shimmering grains of powder-white sand and its awesome turquoise waters. No doubt, these make me want to go back again!

Dare to Climb a Mountain?

We face a lot of challenges everyday of our lives. Some are easy to handle while some may seem too much for us to take. And as I gradually became fond of climbing lately I realized that Life is.. Life is also a mountain to climb!

From Religiosity to Relationship

I was very sincere in seeking God. But I also saw the reality that my religiosity in church did not carry over to my life at home. I got angry at my nieces and pinched them whenever they touched my things, gave my mom, my ate, a weeks/ or month of silent treatment in rebellion to their strictness, spent hours devouring novels and giving way to my imaginations. I was selfish and self-centered.

Thursday, January 07, 2016

How to Delete an Existing FB Page

How to Delete an Existing FB Page

  • Select your Page
  • Upper right side of your facebook page, click Settings (beside help)
  • Lower part, click 'delete your page'
Note: To delete your Page, you'll need to be an admin of that Page. :)



Thursday, June 11, 2015

That moment when you just want to blog...

All humans are imperfect. At times, the confident lose confidence, the patient misplace their patience, the generous act selfish, and the knowledgeable second guess what they know. 

And guess what?You’re human and so is your partner. In fact, we all are. We make mistakes, we lose our tempers, and we get caught off guard. We stumble, we slip, and we spin out of control sometimes.

 But that’s the worst of it; we all have our moments. Most of the time we’re remarkable. So stand beside the people you love through their trying times of imperfection, and offer yourself the same courtesy; if you aren’t willing to, you don’t deserve to be around for the perfect moments either.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

Mount Daguldol at Kimberly Resort Laiya

Hello Guys, howdy! It's been awhile. Been busy lately, work, family, friends, and with my significant other. I miss blogging so here I am editing some of my draft post in hope that it could serve as reference to those of you who have plan to climb Mt. Daguldol this summer and looking for a great yet affordable place to stay!

Last year of May when I organized a climb for the group. In the midst of planning, I was challenged by several concerns -- like safety of the group, kind of weather to expect, what could be the time schedule of the jeepneys/bus, where to buy food, affordable place to stay overnight, etc. I have kept a 'notes' to this for future reference (that will share to you shortly). I must say this is one  memorable trip! It is a strenuous.. and long hike all the way to Mt. Daguldol summit but is very rewarding. :) I tell yah!

If you are torn between setting up a tent at the mountain campsites or at the beach-side I recommend you to choose the latter. Mt. Daguldol is a 5-6 hours walk and it would be such a relief to leave and secure all your things down before you start the trek. PLUS you have more time to explore  the beautiful Laiya beach. Here's a sample 2D/1N itinerary for your reference:


DAY 1:

0330AM Our Assembly time is at Alps Bus Liner Edsa Terminal.
The terminal is beside the national highway. From EDSA-Cubao it is fronting Nepa Q-Mart. Tip: If you want a faster route to Lipa and Batangas City choose buses with sign ACTEX.

0400 ETD to San Juan, Batangas.
Yes! we took San Juan-bound bus from Edsa. Contact Alps for bus schedule

0700 ETA San Juan Town Proper (town market); Then ride jeep to Brgy. Hugom
From San Juan market, ignore all tricycle offers and go left-heading towards the town proper.  Turn right, crossing the road and find the market in the next corner. Find the Hugom jeeps along the street, parallel to the main road/ or just ask the locals. (Don't you worry marami ka naman pedeng pagtanungan :), in our case, si manong na nakasabay namen sa bus even pointed us the way to the jeepney terminal.

0800 ETA Brgy. Hugom. Arrange for guides.
Please note that Hugom is the last stop from San Juan town proper.
Hugom  > HEGA Station, this is where you need to register and hire a mandatory guides.
Guide's fee: Php350-700, for day up/ wholeday.
Registration fee: Php35

You can tell to your guide the time you wish to start the trek. Once settle, you will opt to walk along the beach. Yes, you will pass along different resort, take note, you have to walk in the shoreline under the sun’s heat for about thirty minutes as the jump off point is at the other side of the town and about five minutes of walk to reach Sitio Biga before you reach the jump off point in Sitio Catmon.

Beach trek
0830 ETA Jumpoff Point. We  Look for Resort; Pitch tents.
We don't have a reservation :( sadly, those resort with website our quite expensive, therefore on the same day (plus tiwala lang), we look for an affordable resort where we can pitch our tent. Most of the resorts are full, some are out of our budget until we reach the end of the long shore where we found KIMBERLY RESORT. They allow us to pitch our tent with the use of their table + opened nipa hut, wash room,  for only 900 pesos, They do  owned a small store and carinderia where you can buy food, snacks, softdrinks, etc. Pede karin magpaluto :)  I think it is the nearest resort near the jump off point of Mt. Daguldol. Here's some pics for your reference:

The Nipa Hut and  table that we rented for an overnight stay, 900 pesos only.
O diba may coffee vendo pa sila ate. sosyal!
bamboo table beside Ate Kim's store
(Sorry folks but as of this date Kimberly Resort doesn't have a website or fan page yet, will soon update ate Kim's contact number)

0900 Start of Beach Trek
Ate Kim allow us to leave our things on one of the room they owned before we start the climb.
On the first phase, there are zigzagging and ascending trail, presence of a village in the middle of the trail. (This is where the guides reside)
First phase trail

1200 ETA Guide's place.
Sorry, I forgot the name of our guide. :( Past 12pm when we reach his place. They have cooked food, (adobo and rice) so that's what we have for lunch. They selling halo2x too!

0100 Resume Trek to Summit
After we regain our energy we resume our trek. River, Boulders and steep ascent greeted us after few hours of walk.
Boulders
If I'm not mistaken there are 4 campsites in Mt. Daguldul. These are:
Campsite 1 (Gulugod-Baboy);
Campsite 2 (Niyugan - lots of cocount trees)/ water source
Campsite 3 (Anahawan). - ideal camp site
Camp 4 - also an ideal camp. 

0330 ETA Summit! Enjoy the view.. Pictorials!!!
About one and half hour, we reach the summit! Woo-hoo!
Finally!
Chilling at the Mt. Daguldol summit
The weather is good as soon as we reach the summit. It is glorious and sunny! We had a breathtaking view of Tayabas Bay overlooking Mindoro Island and Marinduque.  The sky is a deep blue color with some scattered clouds. Seeing the grassy field, surely  will also brings the kids in you! Just like what happened to us -- we rolled down the hill, it felt so light and carefree! Funny how we instantly forgot our worries!

0330 Start of descent
 Past 3 when we decided to go down. We no longer proceed with our initial plan, (to take Naambon Falls sidetrip) since we feels like hindi na rin kaya ng oras. It's almost 7PM when reached our campsite. We are so dead tired and hungry. We had our dinner at ate Kim's Carinderia, wash up, and took early sleep because were  thoroughly worn-out. Beside, were excited to explore the beach in the morning! *Lights off*

Tent Set-up
 DAY 2

0500 Wake Up Call/ watch sunrise ^^ (optional)
I dunno but I really had a great sleep in the tent!  I felt like I had been in a deep sleep! I just woke up with the sound of crashing waves, and as I open our tent I was greeted by a peaceful morning! All is quiet.  I see the sun rise over the sea.
sunrise at the beach
Calm and still


0600 Breakfast
The beach is inviting, so we didn't waste any moment, we had our quick breakfast,  and finally dipped our sore feet into those clear waters! 
so clear!
hmm.. it feels good!
0700 Beach bumming/ Enjoy the place! Pictorials!!

We enjoy the beach until 10am! The sand is not as fine and white such as those of neighboring resort but it was ok, our resort is at the end of the beach--there were less people and so we felt like we own the place! Good enough.

in deep thought?
sitting in a rock
1000 Pack-Up
Since were situated at the end, we have to trek again the beach shore (where in scorchingly hot)  to reach hugom. Good thing, meron kami nakasabay na private jeepney from our place whom happened to be the same way as ours. While other passengers are still preparing, we decided to have our early lunch. I remember, we paid only 500 for us six to San Juan town proper where we ride a bus back to Manila. We reached Manila around 4:00. Indeed it was an awesome trip!

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Cobra Ironman 70.3 and Alaska Ironkids: A star-studded event of pros and celebrities

[PRESS RELEASE] One of the country's biggest and most anticipated sports event is finally here! The Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines and Alaska Ironkids Triathlon returns to Cebu for its fifth year on August 3-4, 2013. 

This year more big-name triathletes are expected to compete. For the professional division, there’s Pete Jacobs, a 3-time Ironman Philippines 1st placer and Chris McCormack a 2-time Ironman World Champion to watch out for. Both world champions will definitely deliver an exhilarating showdown during the race.

Amongst the ladies, there’s Caroline Steffen of Alaska Team TBB, the defending women’s champion and Belinda Granger, 12x Ironman Distance Triathlon Champion, a tough competitor for the title. The finisher’s medals and winner’s trophies to be awarded during the event are designed by world-renowned furniture designer and proud Cebuano, Kenneth Cobonpue. 

What makes this year’s event more thrilling are the big celebrities who will not just be gracing the event but also be participating in the competition such as Isabelle Daza, an Ironman 70.3 first timer who will be having her first big race. She will be doing a full triathlon, which consists of a 1.9km swim, 90km bike, and 21km run. Matteo Guidicelli who was first known for his racing career has gotten into triathlon with his dad as his biggest influence. There’s Erwan Heusaff, Drew Arellano and Kim Atienza who are all active triathletes. Piolo Pascual on the other hand will be joining the bike relay. Other celebrities who have signed up for the event are Solenn Heusaff, Pia Cayetano and Raffy Tima. 

On August 3, the Alaska Ironkids Triathlon will kick-start the event. Alaska Ironkids is an event open for kids aged 6 to 14 years old with the goal of promoting a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle to show them that being healthy can also be fun. 

For more information, check out the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines website, www.ironman703phil.com and www.ironkidsphil.com for Alaska IronKids.

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

3 C's of life


The 3C's of life are choices, chances and changes. We often encounter these 3 words in our reading and even in our own lives. Although Life can be tough at times,  I believe that every person is capable of doing what they desire when they dare to take big risks.

There's always a chance, there is always a choice. Life is short. So be open to changes, waste no chances, and make wise choices.

Take a big leap of faith, Don’t be afraid to take chances, you never know what could happen.

God is the author of our life BUT remember, WE are the writers of our journey. Better yet, write it well...
Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.
- Barack Obama
CHANGE Starts with YOU :)


Saturday, July 20, 2013

Hello Kitty Kiddie Party at Jollibee :)

[ PRESS RELEASE ]
Nothing says happy birthday like a fun-filled party with friends, delicious food, exciting games and surprises. Now, mommies and daddies can make their little princesses’ special day even more memorable with a Hello Kitty-themed Jollibee Kids Party.
Hello Kitty-Themed Party
The birthday girl and her guests will surely be tickled pink by the special Hello Kitty birthday cake, as well as the party hats, loot bags, invitations and other awesome party favors featuring the beloved cartoon character.  Parents can make the celebration even more festive with colorful balloons, decorations and game prizes, plus a special appearance by the lovable Jollibee.
Hello Kitty Birthday Party at Jollibee
What’s more, Jollibee makes it very convenient for parents to plan their children’s dream birthday party. They can choose from a variety of party food packages or go with the flexible Create-Your-Own Package, so they can pick the Jollibee treats they want served. Whether it’s a party for 30 or 80, everyone can feast on yummy Jollibee Spaghetti, Chickenjoy, Jolly Hotdog and other langhap-sarapfavorites.

Jollitown Party Cast
Aside from Hello Kitty, Jollibee Kids Party also offers other fun themes that children will surely love. They can enjoy a My Best Friend Jollibee bash, have a magical party at Jollitown, or channel their inner superhero with Batman.

Give your kids the happiest birthday celebration to remember and treat her to a Hello Kitty Jollibee Kids Party! Visit your nearest Jollibee store or log on to www.jollibeeparty.com.ph for more details.

Celebrate with Hello Kitty and book a Jollibee Kids Party for your kid now.

Friday, July 19, 2013

Life always in Flux


The invisible wheels always turning, nothing stable; behavior and consequences, decisions and outcomes, on every level are unpredictable, maybe even unconnected. Even the significance of what we see plainly, what has already happened, is never clear.

Life is always in flux, for the fact that nothing stays the same. BUT, when some things are difficult to explain and understand, We can always have faith that all things work together for our own good.  #aja

Photo by: Rj Picayo | Taken at: Fort Santiago

Monday, July 08, 2013

A Day with the Kids at Southville Resettlement Tanay Rizal

Words cannot explain how I felt after spending a day with the kids of Southville10 Resettlement area in Tanay, Rizal. It's a short, fun-filled event that we shared with the kids to impart to them the value of reading while doing it with pure enjoyment.


We arrived at Southville 10 resettlement area at around 11AM. Despite the rains and rough roads going to the area, tired hands carrying heavy goods, what made us feel energized is the smiles painted in each kid’s face as they patiently wait for our arrival.

On our way to Southville 10 Resettlement, Tanay Rizal.
After a few conversations with the acting chairman of the Southville 10 community, we headed to the place where the kids are. Since the area is an open place, we decided to start while there were only 40 children in number. Hence, when the rain stopped, the kids’ number started to increase from 40 to 80 then 100! That was when we got worried because the gifts/stuff that we brought for them is only good for 50 kids. While we haven’t decided how to distribute the gifts, we went back to our prepared program and activities which the kids willingly participated to. At the back of our mind, “tiwala lang”, and we’ll get through this.

Glad that we were able to come up with a good strategy. Instead of distributing those 50 loot bags to 50 kids, we decided to divide the originally 50 bags of school supplies so we can give to everyone. It’s a blessing also that the spare stuff we have for games were more than enough as prizes, we added them to have sufficient stuff to give away. To our surprise, it seems our gifts will be able to accommodate more than 50 kids!


While some fellow volunteer bloggers had the reading activity, the other bloggers arranged games, which the kids really enjoyed. Then came next is the distribution of school supplies, books and snacks to the kids of Southville 10 Resettlement Community. While distributing, my worries turns into amazement.  We came with only 50 bags in our hands but it was so amazing to witness how our supplies reciprocate and finally would fit for 111 children! Right there and then, I remember the same scenario in the bible  [on verse John 6:15when Jesus feeds 5000 people with only a few loaves of bread and two fish. I found myself uttering... Thank You Lord! Indeed, He is faithful; we only need to trust Him with all our hearts.

Sometimes they just need to know that they are loved and cared for.
Even if we’re not completely done yet, I can already see the genuine happiness of these kids. They were full of energy the whole time, very cooperative in participating in all the games and so engrossed with the story that we read to them. When we handed them the loot bags, their excitement and gratefulness are evident with the smiles they gave to us in return. To feel that they appreciate the little tokens we gave them is more than enough for us. I personally felt a sense of fulfillment I haven’t felt for ages now.

Based on their smiles, this is a day they will certainly not forget anytime soon.
I was so touched when they said thank you, I felt the words penetrate through my heart. We felt even more how blessed we are and appreciate what we have.
The kids offered to sing for us their thanksgiving song before saying goodbye. But all of them asked for us to come back, which I believe will not be a hard one to fulfill.

The experience was so worth it and I encourage my fellow bloggers or anyone interested to participate in this advocacy. You may visit the website of Bloggers For A Cause  BFAC and discover other bloggers who like us are willing to share some time and resources to our less fortunate kababayan. No matter how small, our presence and our vision to make a difference in other people lives will certainly go a long way.


>> Learn more about BFAC recent programs and how you can help. 
>> To view the rest of the photos, click HERE.
>> If you are interested in volunteering you can also email me directly at voncass@gmail.com

 Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you. :)

smile & kisses,


Saturday, July 06, 2013

Nick Jr. Play Date with my nephew and niece


Last weekend I had the pleasure of a Nick Jr. play date with my nephew and niece.

Got an invites from Stratworks to see an edutainment nickelodeon back-to-school event. It's a fun-filled event where kids play to learn and parents learn to play. :D

After our late lunch, we headed to Hall 2 of the SMX Convention Center in SM Mall of Asia where the Nick Jr. Play Date will be held.


Surely these kiddos will have so much fun! My niece is a big Dora fan while Robin (my nephew) is a spongebob fanatic! Though I'm not really a fan, but I like Spongebob coz he's not afraid to cry ^^ and Dora! She's so young yet she travels everywhere! Oh, not to mention her cool spanish accent! Who wouldn't also get giddy anyway seeing those cute Nick Jr. friends like Diego, Max and Ruby, Mr. Grouper, Dora and Spongebob dancing on the stage?! I bet the young at heart will really enjoy it!



It is also heartwarming to see your 'lil angels really happy, I mean like, the glow on their eyes when they saw their favorite Nick Jr. characters as they come out of the stage and got a chance to play with them, it seems that it's their best day ever!!

Leggo fishing!
I remember this Daddy I saw, looks like the kids-at-heart in him just blown away! I was shocked when from my back, he rushed toward to the front, carrying her daughter, with a BIG smile, cause  the finale' dance of  Nick Jr. play mates where about to start! It's funny how this dad seems more excited than the kid! :D



My niece and nephew really had a blast! They enjoy the bubble show, they had fun with the exciting games and took home amazing prizes from Nickelodeon! Woo-hoo! There are also lots of cool freebies that kids truly enjoyed! Indeed, it's an all-out weekend adventure to remember. :D
Robin: Yehey! We won!!

Rainforest Park Pasig: Let's Go For a WALK

At times, waiting can be emotionally challenging. So one Saturday, instead of waiting for my SO (significant other) to text me, I decided to pull my nieces out and go for a walk...

We headed into the park near us to have some picnic! Rainforest Park in Pasig is a 15-minutes trike ride from our house. We bring our bottled water, bought some chips and candies and our picnic mat! In time like this, I just love to go somewhere and focus on the beauty that surrounds me..  It's my means of escape when I feel sad..

Rainforest Park
Rainforest park has no entrance fee though fees are applied on rides and some attractions. Like the train ride, zipline, boating lagoon, butterfly house, maze garden, and zoo pavilion. We entered to the park at 3PM and took some pictures before we go to the Kiddie Land to look for  the best spot where we could lay our picnic mat.


It's always refreshing to see greenery amidst the urban setting.













Just sitting here in the lagoon makes me feel quite refreshed. The area has a very relaxing and peaceful aura.








And oh I just love seeing train tracks!  It reminds me of how fast life can be.
































Vibrant color of the playground gives me a happy feeling! It also makes me feel pretty nostalgic for a lot of reasons.

It's been ages since the last time I go for a swing!


































Lastly, their smiles and laughter make lifted my spirits. I think just being around them, around trees,  plants and fresh air helped me lift my spirits and brought me joy.

I came back home feeling energized and happy. :)

If you’re feeling irritated, bored, frustrated, or any combination of the three, just grab your handbag and head outside. Go and see something different. It will remind you that life doesn’t suck… And then, when you get back, get stuck into tackling whatever your problems are.

Have a lovely weekend,

Friday, July 05, 2013

SOFSM bares Gawad Sinop 2013 Awardees


The Philippine Institute for Supply Management (PISM)’s advocacy arm, the Foundation of the Society of Fellows in Supply Management (SOFSM), recently announced this year’s recipients of Gawad Sinop Awards; namely, St. Luke’s Medical Center for the Corporate Award for Excellence in Supply Management Practices and International Rice Research Institute Senior Manager and Head of Supply Chain Services Hiram Dino Gomez, MM, CPSM for Supply Management Professional of the Year.

Gawad Sinop Awards is SOFSM’s annual event to pay recognition and tribute to Supply Management professionals who have exhibited outstanding achievements in the performance of the profession; and to corporations who have instituted best practices and human resource development programs in Supply Management. Gawad Sinop Awards is usually held during the annual Supply Link Conference and Exhibit.

Photo shows (from left) International Rice Research Institute Senior Manager and Head of Supply Chain Services Hiram Dino Gomez, MM, CPSM and St. Luke’s Medical Center Central Sterile Supply Department Manager Paul Ryan B. Salazar.

Thursday, February 07, 2013

Warm Bodies - Worth Watching :)

Watched "Warm Bodies" last night with boyfriend. When I first heard the title, I thought it was some kind of a morbid thing. But the movie was actually cute and funny movie! "R" (the lead character), I dunno but still looks charming  despite his slightly rotten exterior. :p I soO love his choice of song too! esp. 'missing you' of John Waite.

Warm Bodies is a light romantic comedy movie that talks not just about caring for someone--it's more about the joy and happiness that comes with such a "connection". :)  It did give me the impression of how LOVE can heal us and LOVE breathes life back into people.

This movie reminds me that indeed, Love can change things :) and yes even zombies at times! ^^

Advance Happy Valentines to All! ❤ ❤ ❤



Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Adding Top Social Media Sharing Buttons to your blog posts


Wish to add a social Media Sharing Buttons in a snap? Here's my latest updates!

Compare with my previous posts,
I think this one, is a lot easier and updated, since 'PIN' button has been added too! So if you want to add social media sharing buttons like Google +1, Twitter, Facebook like+send, Pinterest to your blogger posts ALL at once, here are the steps to follow:
  1. Once sign-in to gmail, go to Google dashboard.
  2. Look for the blogger section and on the left side of it, click manage blogs
  3. Select the blog you wish to modify. Look for the dropdown menu at the left side, then select Template and then Click Edit HTML.

  4. NOTE:  Make sure to back-up first your Template before proceeding with the next steps.

  5. In the window that appears, Tick the box that says, "Expand Widget Templates". 
  6. In the HTML code, find <data:post.body/>  (Note: This line of code appears twice. Make sure to choose the first one.)
  7. Copy all the code from the box and paste above the code: <data:post.body/>
  8. Click the "Save Template" button and then just click the "Close" button.



Kindly hit like if it helps you. :)


Sunday, December 02, 2012

Random thoughts

- It is always easy to say i love you. how many times do you say it.? but how many times do you mean it?

- you know me when its serious, i rather not talk about it.

Sony Lifestyle: A Glimpse to an Unbeatable Work of Art

PRESS RELEASE: Sony has yet again launched not just one but three remarkable products that will definitely grab hold of our attention. Held at Dusit Thani, Manila last Friday, November 23, 2012 was the Sony LifeStyle: A Glimpse to Unbeatable Work of Art. The event was set off with an opening remark from Mr. Mike Bangayan, President of Banbros Commercial, Inc., the official distributor of Sony RME products immediately followed by Mr. Takayuki Takemura, Deputy Director of Sony South East Asia Recording Media and Energy.

The Sony South East Asia RME, introduced three of their newest product line, the Micro Vault™ TINY, HD-E1 Hard disk drive, and USB Stick Charger unveiling it through a fashion show showcasing these products as part of the clothing design or as an accessories embodying our society’s diverse genre and lifestyle.

Small doesn’t mean less
Sony RME makes sharing and storing data easy with the new Micro Vault TINY Series. Available at 4, 8, 16 and massive 32GB, this compact size storage device brings a twist of electrifying colors to choose from. Transfer large files with Hi-Speed USB 2.0 plus an illuminated flashing LED light.

Data Armor
Seamlessly crafted, Seamlessly Integrated. Sony HD-E1 USB 3.0 External Hard Drive combines great and strength in a perfect seamless form. At 500GB and 1TB storage capacity with Data Transfer Accelerator software securing high-speed transfer, Password Protection Manager provides greater data security and automatic backup with preloaded Back Up Manager software to guarantee that important files will certainly be well-stored and protected.

Empowered
Power up your smartphone anywhere, anytime with Sony’s CP-ELS USB Portable Power Supply. Stylish and handy, Sony CP-ELS with a battery capacity of 2,000 mAh, is compatible with most smartphones, provides an emergency back-up power to your smartphones. It’s Instant Power On-The-Go.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Dell Philippines Commits to Making a Difference in the Community

PRESS RELEASE: MANILA, Philippines -- Dell Philippines has pledged support for four local charitable organisations promoting children’s welfare and education, further extending the company’s strategic global giving efforts to make a meaningful impact to communities around the world. The identified organizations are Tahanang Walang Hagdan, Inc., Childhope Asia Philippines, Inc., Children's Joy Foundation, Inc., and Haven for Children.

With an aim to address pressing social issues, Dell will work with these charities to provide assistance through technology, know-how and volunteer support. “We find that these four organizations have many needs, donations being just one of them,” Richard Teo, president for Dell Philippines said. “The activities that they need to roll out require volunteers and additional manpower, so I see our Make a Difference program as the best way to connect our team members and the communities that can benefit from our collective giving efforts.
“Our team members have always been passionate about wanting to help different communities, but in the past, they did not know how and where to go. By formalizing our strategic giving partners, we now encourage team members to devote their time to these worthy causes,” added Teo.
“We chose our current partners because they regularly need volunteers and team support. The programs may evolve, but the need for help is always there,” he said. “Dell Philippines will strive to sustain these charitable activities and lend our time year-on-year. The ultimate goal is to spread volunteerism among our people, and to see our efforts grow and benefit the community.”

Tahanang Walang Hagdan, Inc.Dell has been supporting Tahanang Walang Hagdan, Inc.—a rehabilitation and skills training center dedicated to helping people with disabilities become productive and self-sufficient members of society—through mentoring, donations and volunteering at the center. Tess Lloren, resource mobilization director of Tahanang Walang Hagdan Inc., said “Dell really has compassion towards marginalized sectors; not all companies will stay with you throughout the years. They have been very supportive with our outreach programs and services and have really helped us in every way.
Tahanang Walang Hagdan Computer 101
 “Dell also donated several laptops which we use in the offices making our work faster and more efficient and also use them during our community visits in places where we undertake the community-based rehabilitation program,” she added.

The two organizations have also teamed up for a sustainable recycling program, another indication of the deep partnership between the two entities. According to Lloren, recyclable materials from the Dell Philippines offices will be sent to the center to be re-purposed. Items such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles can be reused by the foundation's staff, while newspapers are woven into other products, and non-recyclable items are sold to buyers of scrap materials. “The efforts of the volunteers and the proceeds really help us in sustaining our educational program for the young and with disabilities,” Lloren said.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Mount Manalmon and other Side Trips - Day Hike Trip

If you're looking for a quick getaway from Manila and wish to experience the thrill of nature trekking and mountain climbing, Mount Manalmon and its side trips are a good choice.

Mount Manalmon is less than 3 hours ride from Metro. It is located in San Miguel Bulacan and part of the Biak-na-Bato National Park. While considered an easy climb, the trail of this mountain becomes steep and rocky as the summit is approached.

The beginning.
We can't wait for another amazing moment to experience and to be so close to nature so despite bad weather forecasts we agreed to continue our 2nd annual trip--thank God cause it turned out to be the best decision for the group. It was raining on our way to Bulakan but when we finally reach San Miguel and  get off  from the bus, weather got better, and there was only drizzle.

We then rode a tricycle to Sitio Madlum (P60each) which took us about 45 minutes. The road was ok during the first 20 minutes, but it became rough as we near Sitio Madlum. Too late to realized that sitting at the back edge of the trike was really not a good choice. :(



Past 9:00AM when we arrived at Sitio Madlum. The water in the river is quite higher compare to other photos I saw online, maybe because of the constant rains. The river was surrounded by lush green rocks offering a peaceful and tranquil scenery. We enjoy the view, we took pics while our lead-climber settle all the necessaries fees at the registration area.


Crossing the Monkey Bridge
Most of us get excited to try the monkey bridge. When it's already my turn, I gathered all my courage. The bridge is quite high, the river is deep for sure due to regular rains, and MyGhadd! I dunno how to swim! But our guide assured that he will jump in just incase anyone from us fall down, he also said that so far, no one has fallen from the bridge yet! So be it! I set my foot on the bar and grip firmly on the cable. Though I'm wearing trek shoes, it still feels slippery cause of the thick mud on it's sole. It is not as easy as I thought! My knees went trembling on the first steps. I even want to back out. But they encourage me to finish it. Our guide also  told me not to look down, and it helps. :) Glad that despite my shaking knees I survived the challenge. :) Woo-hoo!


We were off to trek after braving the monkey bridge. It was a beautiful misty morning. The trail was friendly for anyone who can walk in between the raindrops for 2 hours.


As we go up, the weather was getting better and as we reached the summit we were greeted with the spectacular views of Mt. Arayat and Mt. Gola, plus the panoramic view of the Madlum River at the north side.


We took a lot of picture (walang bababa ng walang pang propayl pic na kuha! hehe), we give thanks, enjoyed the views and we're really happy that it was a cloud free summit. :) We didn't stay long at the top, we were all starved and so we headed back down.

Friday, September 28, 2012

2012 Dinner Dance: Anti - TB Educational and Fund Campaign

Inspiring and heartwarming --  that's how I felt last night when I attended the 2012 Philippine Tuberculosis Society Dinner Dance. I admired the Fund Campaign Volunteers who work hard and make this event a success and to the sponsors who shares their blessings for the benefit of PTSI.

The Philippine Tuberculosis Society is a non-stock, non-profit charitable organization founded on July 29, 1910 primarily to combat tuberculosis which is said to be still a major health problem in the Philippines today. Since then, PTSI has been on the forefront in the campaign against TB. They actively involved in the National Tuberculosis Program of the  Department of Health, primarily through the Private-Public Mix DOTS (Directly Observed  Treatment Short Course) the subsidized  treatment of indigent TB patients, and its involvement in TB research and training  programs. With its constant quest for TB control and management.

Dancing and giving – all for a great cause.
2012 Dinner Dance, anti-TB educational and Fund Campaign was held in a beautiful ballroom, chandeliers and all with dinner and appetizers served at Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan yesterday, September 27, 2012. Funds raised from these campaigns are used to subsidize medical treatments of indigent patients at the Quezon Institute, as well as to support the various anti-TB programs of PTSI in the provinces such as TB in Prisons, TB in Children and TB in the Workplace. Glad to know that there are company and manila’s cause-oriented folks that are willingly shelled out donations for PTSI’s fight against the deadly disease.


Monday, September 24, 2012

Upload Youtube Video to iPhone

Here's how to upload video from YouTube to your iPhone.

1. First, copy the URL of the video you wish to save. Go to http://www.savevid.com/ and paste the URL.
2. Click Download button.

Savevid is a free online tool which gives user the ability to download videos from streaming Video sites like Youtube, etc.

3. There are 6 formats that are available for download. Select a format/ or file that suits for your need. 

4. For iPhone, click the small arrow right beside the MP4 format. A dialog box will appear asking you to save/ or open the file.

5. Save File. You can now watch the video on your computer without being connected to the Internet.

Friday, September 21, 2012

How to Apply for Pag-ibig Salary Loan

Some companies facilitate Pag-ibig loans for their employees while others don't. So to apply personally for Pag-IBIG Salary Loan, here's the 3 easy steps:

1. Ready all the needed requirements before going to the nearest Pag-IBIG branch.
Xerox copies of 2 Valid ID's, Latest 1-month payslip, and duly accomplished Pag-IBIG Multi-Purpose Loan Application Form are the requirements.


2. Secure Employer's information needed to complete the form. 
Make sure to duly complete the form especially the Employer section -- Signature of Office Head/ or Authorized Representative, Employer, SSS/GSIS No., Agency Code, and Branch Code to avoid returning back.

3. Bring all the requirements together with your original valid IDs to the nearest Pag-IBIG Branch.
If you will apply at their Ortigas Branch in Pasig (just across SSS), application is at the 4th floor of Westar Bldg. Get a number from the guard and wait for your number to flash on the screen.

When called, present your requirements. It will be check by the personnel in-charge. This is to make sure you are qualified for a loan. If there is no problem with your records, a date will given to you for the claiming of your check. (More or less 2 weeks after your application).


FAQ & Tips:
  1. Are they still open after 5PM? Yes. Pag-ibig Branch in Pasig is still open after 5PM. I arrived there around 5:20PM yesterday (Sept 20, 2012) and they do still accept loan applicants.
  2.  Where do they base the loan amount? As far as I know, the amount you can borrow is based on the total number of your contribution. 
So for instance, the borrower has a 30-months contribution, this will be multiplied by 200, then 60% of it would be the loanable amount.

Total no. of Contribution:                          30   (Months)
Borrower's Monthly Contribution:       x 200 (Employee + Employer Contribution)
                                                           --------------
                                                           = 6,000 x 0.60 = P3,600 (est. loanable amount)
    - 24 to 59 months contribution = 60% of the total amount
    - 60 to 119 months contribution = 70% of the total amount
    - at least 120 months contribution = 80% of the total amount (this is the maximum)

    Please also note that if you happen to work in different cities or provinces most probably your monthly contribution record on their system would be insufficient. This is because Pag-IBIG System is not centralized yet. If that's the case, you need to request to consolidate your contribution so that you will not be lacking in your monthly contribution.

    Disclaimer: The steps you’ll read above is a documentation on my experience how I applied for my Pag-ibig Salary Loan. While I appreciate your comments, I can not do anything for any of your complaints nor could I answer any of your questions with regards to your personal Pag-ibig accounts. Thank you.


    Use the 'post a comment' section at the top of this post to share your thoughts. Your comments are what makes this thing fun! I LOVE to hear from you and do my best to respond to everyone! THANK YOU!
     
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