CORPORATE | Heads Lead the Body

Heads Lead the Body

Corporate bosses are the ones who set the corporate culture. You get a jolly boss, the staff underneath either become jolly and lax. You get a terror boss, then people tend to be panic suicidal and stressed but are productive. You get a middle boss, and that's what I have.

CORPORATE | Everything Online

Everything Online

I've been trying so hard to keep track of all my dealings in the office to the point of making multiple entries for the same events or important things to do. Needless to say, that is such a waste of time and in a busy world where I am in right now, every second count (even this entry is eating much of could have been used for some other worthwhile tasks- sigh!).

CORPORATE | Prioritization

Prioritization

It is perhaps one of the most important concepts that a person should learn when inside a company. Correction- a demanding company. Back in my university days, I know how vital prioritizing important things is. The sad part is that I was never good at prioritizing things that really matter. Yes I have my organizer for that. Only proves how much I need to be reminded at all the things that have to be done.

TRAVEL | Leaving the Night Before (In Korea 2008)

The Night Before Departure

I remember it all too vividly. After the farewell party, I was a bit tipsy because of “soju” but I had to force myself packing all my stuff. The new luggage I bought with Bob (U-Ju) was wide open on the floor. It was already filled though it was just my clothes.

What about the other stuff – the books, shoes, etc.? It was a difficult decision but I had to throw some of my things (this is where I learned not to bring much when leaving the Philippines because most likely I’ll be coming back with more stuff). I ended up forgetting my certificates I earned for the whole nine months in Korea.

I said goodbye to all my friends in that floor-  Daniel, the guy who loves black coffee, gave me some snacks I can take to the Philippines. Some other people expressed how sorry they are that we couldn’t spend some time to go out.

Lesson learned: If you want to go out with somebody, don’t wait until they go back to their country.

LIFESTYLE | Remarkable Beauties

Remarkable Beauties

2011 is about to end. We are down to the last two months and sadly, I have not been that active updating my blog entries. Honestly, there are already so many things that have happened in my life for the last seven months but I just can't find enough inspiration to put all them in a logical written form.

LIFESTYLE | Beauty Pageants

Beauty Pageants

Okay, so here's the fuss- I've never been an avid follower of beauty competitions but this year 2011 proved to be one lucky year for the Philippines as all representatives were selected from top 15 (Miss International) to top 5 (Miss Universe) to top 3 (Miss World). What does it say for a developing country such as the Philippines? It's not like it's going to improve the country's economy or solve social injustice. But on the positive side, this good news brings hope to mos Filipinos knowing that even in the middle of poverty of and turmoil, the Filipinas (term for female Filipinos) are still considered one of the most beautiful women in the planet.

JOURNAL | Just Trying Out…

Just Trying Out…

So I just found this feature on my new laptop which enables me to create posts for my blog through my laptop straight to my blog account (without going to the actual site). I wonder how this would turn out?

CORPORATE | Late nights at Office

Late nights at Office

I'm still at the office working on the piles of documents either to be submitted to the Head Office or released to the consultants.

CORPORATE | Observation : Timing and Human Emotions

TIMING

Corporate life has taught me that to get ahead of the game, one has to become a STRATEGIST which differs greatly from being book smart and overly pedantic with rules.

JOURNAL | Start of My Lucid Dreams

Start of My Lucid Dreams

Last night, my attempt to astral project/lucid dream failed. As I recall, I kept hearing voices from the people I know and events that slowly flashed in my mind were that of the events hours before I went to bed. I recall hearing two particular voices- Melchor and Cocoy whose voices were certainly distinguishable among others. I recall the dinner at Shawaya (a local chicken house) and the events in the van- the shouting and laughter. But I failed to maintain my consciousness as I gave in to the flow of convoluted events.

CORPORATE | Observation 3: Fashion and Looks

Observation 3: Fashion and Looks

Employee's appearance determines the amount of respect and confidence in an office setting. Fashion dictates impression, as impression is the most lasting.

CORPORATE | Observation 2: Boss Attitude

Observation 2: Boss Attitude 

The boss's attitude and everything about him influences the general atmosphere of the office.

CORPORATE | Observation 1 : Ranking and Psyche

Observation 1 : Ranking and Psyche

If a boss is kind or terrifying, the subordinates do not take it against the boss. If an employee is kind, he will be abused. If an employee is terrifying, he will be hated.

JOURNAL | Life in Riyadh

Life in Riyadh

Great!
So blogspot's working.
Finally an avenue to release stress.
Whew!

Actually, life in Riyadh is not that bad. Except of course for the intense scorching weather that makes your nose bleed whenever you feel like walking during lunch breaks (and I don't really get to have a choice whether to stay indoors or go home because I really have to eat).

TRAVEL | Panglao, Bohol in the Philippines

Panglao, Bohol in the Philippines

The Internet connection right now is just plain crazy and since I am pressed for time, I would have to post just some of the interesting photos I took in Bohol. I'll edit later.

TRAVEL | Lone Sojourner

Lone Sojourner in Bohol

Traveling alone can be a good opportunity for anybody to reflect and enjoy some new place minus the hassle of minding a companion's welfare and time limitation. When traveling alone, you can practically do anything you like. And that's exactly what I did in my BOHOL trip last March 2011.

TRAVEL | NAIA 1, 2, and 3

NAIA 1, 2, and 3

It was interesting to know that there's actually a shuttle that transports passengers from NAIA 3 to EDSA MRT. For those who are not familiar with commuting to the airports- there are three airports in Manila: NAIA 1, 2 and 3.

TRAVEL | Airport Lessons (Some Tips to Remember)

Airport Lessons (Some Tips to Remember)

Bored waiting for my VISA to Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; I decided to buy a plane ticket going to Bohol. I've heard a lot of good things about this province but I never really had a chance to visit and experience the place. Well I had plenty of time so it was a go, go, go for me.

JOURNAL | No Energy

No Energy

These days, all the energy in the world is deserting me to write any post in my blog; although there are certainly a lot of things/stories I need to share to the world. But perhaps a day or two, I'll be snap back into my senses and get back on to writing.

TRAVEL | Tagbilaran Day Tour (Bohol)

Tagbilaran Day Tour (Bohol)

Deciding whether to take a day tour (1800 Php) or go island hopping (1300 PhP), I opted to take the day tour since I am not into dolphin watching and snorkeling. Furthermore I needed a transport to go to Tagbilaran to buy my ship ticket going to CEBU which is my next destination. The day tour was fun although I was alone. Well it would have been better if there are others with me to save money but since it's my last day, I couldn't wait for anybody to come with me.

TRAVEL | Kwebang Lampas (Pagbilao, Quezon)

Kwebang Lampas (Pagbilao, Quezon)

Not many know that Quezon Province harbors many beaches that have not been discovered and developed yet. One particular place is Pagbilao. Its sea shore overlooks Tayabas Bay and most of its sand is white which makes it a haven for beach lovers.

JOURNAL | Sunset

Sunset

While looking at the sunset today at Roxas Boulevard, I was amazed at how little it is to make people essentially happy. I was happy after seeing the sun set. It was really nothing but it was joy unlike any other.

TRAVEL | Farewell Time

Farewell Time

We were really running out of time. The flight of the two guys was at 11:05am. We arrived at the airport at 10:35am. Only 30 minutes before the flight. They had to cut in line just to try catching their flight. Unfortunately, they missed the plane.

TRAVEL | The Last Night in Manila

The Last Night in Manila

The place was big. I am not very good at measurements but I know that my whole subdivision would have fitted in that resort. There was a lake where one could ride a boat. Eight pools of different temperature. One volleyball court. One function house under construction. One restaurant. And cottages all around the place. The resort was decorated with wood carvings and marble statues. It was really amazing.

TRAVEL | 88 Hotspring Resort in Laguna

88 Hotspring Resort in Laguna

Jeenyong wanted to say goodbye to my sister. Good thing my sister came home before we left. So Kino and Jeenyong said goodbye to her.

TRAVEL | Sea Food, Balut and Bingo

Sea Food, Balut and Bingo

Mother had to go to work today. She prepared breakfast or something like that. I thought I had to add something up on the table so bought some things on the shore, washed a few dishes and set the table. It was a very simple breakfast but I put a lot of effort into it.

TRAVEL | Pick up at NAIA Terminal 1

Pick up at NAIA Terminal 1

Around 6pm when an unknown number started ringing. I was in the middle of my English class. I had to excuse myself to pick up the phone. Surprise! It was Kino himself. Somehow he was able to use a cellphone at the airport.

TRAVEL | My Two-Week Vacation

My Two-Week Vacation

I just got home yesterday and I am to write so many wonderful experiences I have had for the past two weeks. I am going to write them a bit later though since I have some other commitments to attend to. But I will not rest until I get those memories into writing.

CORPORATE | Universal McCann Philippines

Universal McCann Philippines

And I thought I won't write today. But I just can't help it. Just before I go to bed, I want to share what happened today. I hope these points can help me become better in future interviews which I think would be a long road for me.

1. Punctuality

Why can't I just be on time. I always try hard to hurry but in the end I always arrive in my appointments late. This is already my second interview this month and I am late again for 30 minutes. I want to change this habit seriously.

2. Dress code. 

I know I exerted effort in making sure I make myself presentable but I still looked lousy and impoverished with my tattered belt and crumpled polo. Not to mention my torn slacks. I can't believe I go to Makati wearing this. But it's actually an issue of time rather than finances. I just can't find time to go to SM and buy the things I need.

3. Interview. 

Sure my English was good but my vocabulary just slips my mind and I keep muttering common words that do not really show what I am made of. I need to spruce up my vocabulary badly.

4. Appearance and Facial cues. 

More than anything is the face that sends the message to the interviewer. How can I be so presentable with my eye bags almost covering my face? I need an overhaul and I need to do it quick.

JOURNAL | Things that are impossible to say when you're drunk

Things that are impossible to say when you're drunk

LolSnaps (http://lolsnaps.com/?p=home&media_id=2228&cat_type=all&order_type=latest&pagenum=1) does not fail to make me laugh everytime I visit its site. Today, I was intrigued by this photo. Take a look below,

LIFESTYLE | Ricky Gervais in Retrospect

Ricky Gervais in Retrospect

Ricky Gervais in 68th Golden Globe

I don't really get this man at all... not at all. I mean when I saw him presenting the awards at the 68th Golden Globes, lambasting everyone from Angelina Jolie to Tom Hanks I said, "Hey, who's this man?" I don't even remember his face landing on newspapers or entertainment channels. It's either he's not really popular or I've turned my back on senseless entertainment reports. Not to mention rubbish dramas being produced by big networks- all for the oblivious audiences to consume. So, you can't really take it against me if I'm not very much updated on Hollywood's newest personalities. But then again, this RICKY GERVAIS seemed too pompous and arrogant to me. He should really know it better when to shut his mouth about hurting other people's feelings.

LIFESTYLE | List of 2011 Philippines Public Holidays

List of 2011 Philippines Public Holidays

(click title for original source)

List of 2011 Philippines Public Holidays

In Philippines, aside from national holidays which are celebrated nationwide, there are local holidays depending on the demographics of the population. National holidays are further differentiated between Regular Holidays and Nationwide Special Holidays. There are three nationwide special holidays in Philippines, which are Ninoy Aquino Day, All Saints Day, and Last Day of the Year.

LIFESTYLE | CCTV Caught stealing laptop from bag @ Oyster Boy Metro Walk (Camera 4)

CCTV Caught stealing laptop from bag @ Oyster Boy Metro Walk (Camera 4)

Here's a video of a modus operandi of some thieves in Manila. As I've observed, these scoundrels have similar tactics. They would sit close to you and someone will divert your attention so better be alert when in public places. Never leave things out of your sight.

SPA REVIEW | Seven Senses Spa (Sumulong Highway boundary of Marikina & Antipolo)

Seven Senses Spa

Antipolo/Marikina Area

Travel to Seven Senses Spa took about 15-20 minutes from Robinsons Galleria. Upon arrival, two female receptionists greeted us and asked for our names. (Is it really necessary to ask for the names of the clients?) Then there’s a list of services a customer can choose from. Normal massage (e.g. Swedish, Shiatsu, Holistic, Foot, etc.) costs 500 – 750, then body scrub (with different mixes) costs 980.

Area	Rating	Notes
Price	8 / 10	Affordable
Massage	5 / 10	Inconsistent
Facilities	8 / 10	The jacuzzi is a plus

Just next to the reception area is a coffee shop where people can sit and talk. They provide coffee and cake.

Wet Area and Facilities

There are three medium sized pools in the wet area- one for hot, cold, and warm. The pools were big enough to accommodate eight people at a time. The good thing about the wet area also was that it wasn’t so crowded on a Sunday afternoon so you pretty much can relax in the pool without minding others.

Shower rooms are fairly new as well. Nozzles are working fine. Water is hot. There were shower curtains. Shampoo and soap were placed in a container. Very sanitary.

Sauna was also available albeit small, it can house five (5) people inside. The odd thing about the sauna though was that the door had a gap/small opening at the bottom so the sauna doesn’t really get hot enough (I was guessing perhaps it was due to some measurement error). It looked clean though inside compared to New York Spa and Wensha. The wood is fairly new.

Steam room is quite bigger. It can accommodate at least ten (10) people inside at a time. The temperature when I went inside was too hot my legs which gets mostly the steam from below felt painful that’s why I didn’t stay too long inside.

Water dispenser is provided so you can just drink any time you want.

In general, the wet area was clean and well maintained.

The Room and Massage

The massage room emanates a soft, ambient glow, creating an inviting atmosphere. Accessible through a sliding door, your private sanctuary awaits, adorned with a bed adorned in pristine white linen. A glass table graces the right corner, adding a touch of elegance. The window, crafted from native materials, is not merely functional but also serves as a charming embellishment, contributing to the overall homely feel of the space, which, I must say, is impeccably clean.

However, despite the appealing ambiance, the experience fell short during the massage. Having frequented spas for the past year, I've developed a discerning taste for a quality massage. Regrettably, this session left much to be desired. The pace seemed rushed, and the technique lacked the finesse one would expect. It felt as though the masseur was experimenting with new moves, resulting in an amateurish attempt, even extending to the stretching exercises.

Adding to the less-than-ideal experience was the youthfulness of the masseur, likely younger than myself. With smaller hands, the massage became inadvertently ticklish, a sensation that, in a massage setting, is far from desirable, as the purpose is to relax the muscles, not incite unexpected reactions. While the environment was pleasant, the overall massage quality left a notable gap in what should have been a rejuvenating experience.

***

In addition to this entry, you may check out below the services that this spa offers:

Scrub Services

Green Tea Body Scrub

Green tea has been used as traditional medicine in many Asian countries and is known to have a positive effect on a person's overall health. The green tea body scrub aims to cleanse and tone the skin while helping prevent wrinkles and scar formation.

Choco Muscovado Scrub and Wrap

The enticing Chocolate and Muscovado Scrub whisks away dry, parched skin, while transporting you on an aromatic journey of sweet sensations. This scrub creates a natural exfoliating effect for the skin, containing anti-oxidants which help prevent cancer while softening the skin.

Mandi Susu Herbal Scrub and Coco Butter Wrap

Mandi susu, originally a bridal ritual of Javanese princesses, and coco butter which is extracted from coconut have been incorporated into this treatment which has anti-aging and antiseptic properties that help enhance the immune system while providing nourishment to the skin.

Aloe and Lavender Scrub and Wrap

Aloe and lavender, known for its antiseptic and antibiotic properties are combined together to create this aromatic fusion, which is ideal for sensitive skin.

Dead Sea Mud with Wrap

Dead Sea salts are used in this wrap to exfoliate dead skin cells and tones the skin. Other benefits include improvement of blood circulation, effective relief of skin disorders. It also acts as a moisturizer to the skin resulting to natural skin hydration.

Traditional Indonesian Boreh

The Indonesian Boreh is a traditional herbal scrub used to relieve muscle tension, increase blood circulation and create relaxation. This ancient recipe contains aromatic herbs and spices.

Volcanic Clay Scrub and Wrap

Inspired by Asian traditions, this detoxifying volcanic clay treatment purifies, revitalizes and tightens the skin. Also works against cellulite, it releases free radicals and toxins, creating a smoother and more radiant skin.

Shiatsu

A Japanese art of therapy aimed to stimulate the flow of energy channels in the body. The static pressure decongests the meridian channels and ensures a smooth flow of life-giving energy, thereby helping the body to reach a state of wellness.

Swedish Massage

A western massage that makes use of long, flowing strokes that help eliminate muscle tension, improve blood circulation and promote deep relaxation. Therapeutic oil is used to allow a smoother stroke while its healing properties are absorbed by the body.

Aromatherapy Massage

Unique herbal essences are used to promote the balance of the mind and body.

Foot Spa

A cleansing and detoxifying treatment that uses natural herbs and solutions to maintain smooth, callous and fungi-free feet.

Holistic Massage

The fusion of both western and oriental art of massage that relaxes the senses while helping one achieve harmony of the mind and body which leads to improvement of health and wellness.

Thai Bodywork

A set of bodywork that emphasizes on stretching and pressing of the energy lines, known as Zen line. The yoga-like movement ensures the stretching of muscles, bones and ligaments to improve the elasticity of the skin and release tension caused by stress.

Reflexology

A stimulating hand and foot therapy that has been around for
centuries due to its healing effects. Different points of the hands and feet are stimulated to produce a healing effect on the different organs of the body. Moreover, it improves blood flow and helps relax the nervous system

MOVIE REVIEW | Rosario (2010)

Rosario (2010)

I think I have carried with me the "film reviewing" habit in my film classes that I felt it appropriate to give my analysis on the films I have seen recently. For this week I decided to go check out this movie entitled ROSARIO directed by Albert Martinez starring Jennylyn Mercado as its lead star.

LIFESTYLE | I used to be Pisces: Earth Rotation Changes Zodiac Signs

I used to be Pisces: Earth Rotation Changes Zodiac Signs

LIFESTYLE | ML Kwarta Padala and the epic journey

ML Kwarta Padala and the epic journey

Nowadays people are given a choice between practicality and laziness. Practicality is when you can just go to the nearest bank say BPI where people are courteous, the place is cold and clean, and everything is in order. Laziness is just plain opposite. Laziness nowadays is not being able to find the best and most convenient way to send money.

LIFESTYLE | Venus Raj (2010) : The Cat Walk

Venus Raj (2010) : The Cat Walk

If for anything, I think Venus' amazing catwalk catapulted her to the top 5, and although some people might argue that she is not that pretty to deserve the crown- well let me remind you that all candidates in the pageant have been sent by their countries to represent them and to insult the candidate is to insult the country so better keep to your self degrading remarks.

LIFESTYLE | Miriam Quiambao (1999) Revisited

Miriam Quiambao (1999) Revisited

This is my last post for tonight. I couldn't get this one thing out of mind after watching the video from youtube this morning. Here is the video,

JOURNAL | What Are Your Strengths?

What Are Your Strengths?

What are your strengths? Is there really a clear-cut answer to this? When I assess myself of all the strengths I have, which ones should I single out? How do I justify the distinction I've given to these strengths? Worse, are these strengths for real or imaginary? The question could have easily become- What is your imaginary strength? But that would be a lot different topic.

JOURNAL | Of Etiquettes

Of Etiquettes

This is kind of late now. I've tried really hard to blog last weekend's activity but I was just too busy (well I can't think of a time when I wasn't). The point is there are number of things that I would like to share so here it goes.

CORPORATE | Resignation

Resignation

Today finally marks my remaining days in my present job. I have submitted my resignation letter and soon I will be embarking on a different path. It's really hard to leave something you have been doing for at least three years, but I feel like I needed to grow professionally and personally. 

LIFESTYLE | Masculine Wash

Masculine Wash

For a time, I thought genital wash products are only for women until I saw from the grocery this brand for men. I thought, WHAT?! Why on earth do we men have to wash our genitals? Curious as I am, I read the product content and its says there "for cleaner (or something like that) intimate encounters (which I suppose is SEX).