Our two Antonios

Taken during the older Antonio's birthday dinner at Dayrit's Global City. Such a delight to see the two of them together. Didn't realize na mas suplado pala ang anak ko kesa sa ninong nya =) Good to see you again, bro. 8 days seemed like a short time but thanks for making it happen. See you again in December.

Oh no, not again

Another one of them domestic ferries has capsized while sailing through rough waters. Literally. According to reports, Sulpicio's Princess of Stars left Manila Friday night for Romblon (or somewhere down South). The ship never made it. And now, around 700 people are missing.

I worked in the shipping industry for 4 years -- 2 of which was as a public relations officer for the domestic shipping association. In those 2 years, I was exposed to the plight of shipping companies, the challenges they faced and how they wanted to seriously make their services and fleet better. I know for a fact how these companies have made considerable investments to make their ships seaworthy. I've ridden some of these vessels -- the Superferry 12, 17 and even, I think, the one that just sank.

While I agree that the ship owners should be held accountable for these kind of sea mishaps (at least to a certain degree), I still think the government should do something to help address these accidents. The MARINA, Coast Guard and PPA, should do their share -- be more proactive, and less susceptible to corruption. If a ship is not supposed to sail, then don't let it leave the port. Provide harsher penalties if necessary. Do whatever it takes. At whatever price. We are talking about lives here. Not just mere boats. But about saving someone's mother, sister, brother, father, son, daughter.

The maritime industry is sinking and it needs help. Let us not allow another bunch of 700 people to just float around, praying that someone out there finally hears the message. Let us not go down in history as the country that keeps breaking its own record for holding the worst maritime disaster in history.

Unthinkable, unforgivable

In a span of one week, I've read two incidents of infanticide -- one was consumated (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/101640/Baby-girl-dies-after-being-hurled-from-9th-floor) and one, thankfully, was not (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view/20080620-143697/Baby-thrown-from-cab-now-out-of-danger).

As a mother and as a human being, these two stories will undoubtedly haunt me for the rest of my life. For the life of me, I would never understand why women (they do not deserve to be called mothers at all) can do these sort of things. These babies, planned or not, are and should be considered as blessings. WTF were you thinking??!?!?!

To the heartless bitches who did these, shame on you. You were supposed to protect them and keep them safe from harm. These babies do not deserve you. And you don't deserve them. Shame on you.

Snapshots from my city of angels experience

It was a glorious week, indeed! For 6 beautiful, beautiful days, I was able to spend time with family I haven't seen for years!!

D day: being welcomed so warmly by Tito Bob and family, Tito Peps and family, Jerome, Daisy and little Jeremy, Uncle Simon (in that frigtheningly blue Homeland Security uniform) and of course, Ate Maylyn and Kuya Dennis.

It was a delight to finally see them!! Ate Maylyn and Kuya Dennis with Jeremy.

With ate maylyn and cayi along the Hollywood walk of fame

Kilig na kilig sa mga paa at kamay ni George Clooney!

Our one and only photo op together. At on The Road to hollywood. Unfortunately, we weren't able to capture the Hollywood sign behind us as it was getting dark then.

Ta Nin's baby doll is all grown up and has a baby doll of his own!

Hardrock cafe, Universal City Walk

Getting my first taste of the famous Pink Berry. Yummy!

Dining with Cayi at Johnny Rockets courtesy of Cayi's pal, Eloi

At the heart of capitalism: Tiffany, Rodeo Drive. With Cayi.

Finally got to visit Ninang Nancy and Ninong Ben as well as Bam and his family on my second day.

With Tito Peps, Tita Celia and my baby Jason (who obviously ain't so little anymore) at guess where..Max's!!

Inside the Indiana Jones ride with Nic and Tish

At the happiest place on Earth -- or so they say it is. My vote is on the Premium Outlets in Camarillo, though. But what the heck, I sure had a lot of fun here too! Thanks to Nic!

Being silly in Mickey ears

Thanks Kuya, Ate Maylyn, Ate Roselyn (with whom I didn't get to have a picture with), Uncle Simon, Tito Peps, Tita Celia, Jason, Joseph, Jerom, Daisy, Jemoy, Nicole, Celine, Tito Bob, Tita Peachie, Nikki, Tish, Ninang Nancy, Ninong Ben, Bam, Cristy, and Eloi for making my short visit to LA an uber memorable one -- hope i didn't forget anyone!! I shall return!!

Thanks too to Tita Laluy and Tita Aya whom I didn't get to see but had the pleasure to talk to while I was there.

My father, the hero

Tomorrow, our country will be celebrating the 110th anniversary of Philippine Independence. And while everyone will be harping about Philippine heroes, let me tell you something about my own hero.

My hero never had a statue or monument built for him but to everyone who knew him, he is the epitome of kindness and generosity. Even now when he doesn't have much money, he always makes it a point to give a few hundred pesos to a friend in need. As a grandad, he sets aside a portion of his pension so he could buy milk, a toy, sometimes even just a huge bottle of distilled water to mix for his formula.

My hero did not serve in the government but he served the people in his community. He played a vital role in helping build a parish and not just a Church. By serving the people around him, he taught me how one can still be of service by just sharing your time and your efforts. No money is required -- just pure and total commitment to the cause.

My hero did not graduate from college nor did he gain honors or merits during his academic life. But he worked hard to send his three children to school -- the best schools that the country has to offer. Because of his sacrfices, one son is now working in the banking industry in the States, one is an architect and his only daughter is working as a marketing communications specialist for the world's leading law firm. Not bad for a college drop out.

My hero is not a professional writer nor a gifted public speaker but he never fails to impart valuable lessons to his children. Never fails to say the right words at the right time. Never fails to inspire and motivate his children to do good.

My hero will never go down in history as the best man that ever lived. But in my and my brothers' books, he is undoubtedly, the best father in the world.

Happy father's day, Dad. I don't say it often enough but yeah, I really, absolutely adore you and all you have done for me, my brothers, mom and most especially, Anton. We love you.

With my hero when I was barely a year old.

Pendong!!!

We brought the little one to the barbershop over the weekend for some serious trimming. The decision was borne out of necessity, more than anything else. Anyone who's been in Manila would attest to how hot and humid the weather has been lately.

So. The little one now looks like this:




Still pogi, don't cha think so?

Just finished reading...

Thanks to Carrie for lending me this book!! A riveting narrative on the events leading to the Chiago World's Fair that took place in 1894. It also tells the story of two of the most intriguing men in America at that time: Daniel Burnham and Dr. H.H. Holmes -- although, of course, they were intriguing in two very different ways.

I dunno if it is just because I am still fascinated by Chicago but this book really won me over. Not just for its historical richness but more because of how Erik Larson was able to seamlessly intertwine the Chicago's triumph and embarrassment.

Read it!! Oh, and you will be thrilled to know how the Chicago World's Fair out-Eiffled Eiffel's Tower during the Paris Exposition. Hint: It was the design of a young Engineer that finally did it. The name of the engineer was George Ferris. Go figure.

Belated Happy Birthday, Lolo Dos

Dear Lolo Dos,

Sorry I missed greeting you on your actual birthday, May 29. It was pretty hectic at work and I just didn't get a chance to get some time off so I could visit you. Dad had a busy schedule, too, over at Church. They are in the middle of feeding program for kids and had already committed to driving some of the committee members on some errands. I do feel bad about not being able to even hear mass to celebrate your birthday. But, you know in my heart that I did not forget.

It hurts to say this but I hardly remember your face nowadays. After all, I was barely 7 when you passed away. Somehow, I do remember the day I last saw you. It was the day before christmas and I recall how Dad took me on a bicycle ride from our house to the compound. I barely remember him saying I need to say goodbye to you. Of course, at that time, I did not know that that goodbye would be the last I will ever say to you. Next thing I remember was my mom taking me to SM to buy a white dress I will be wearing for your requiem mass. I do remember too that it was the most somber Christmas ever.

I feel terribly, terribly sad to realize that I shared only six years of my life with you. For the first 6 years of my life, people told me that you were one of my biggest fans. And my staunch supporter. You always had a way of sparing me from Lola Bien's patpat and sermon everytime I missed an afternoon nap or failed to clean up after my own mess. I don't remember the details now but I do remember how it felt like to be genuinely loved by a grandfather, despite only having six years with you.

I know you and Lola Bien are happy together now. I know you've waited many years to be with your soulmate again. I hope that Lola Bien had many wonderful stories about us that she shared with you. We weren't perfect grandkids but we did try to do good. You would be most especially proud of Kuya. He set the bar for all of us, your Tenorio grandkids. Because of him, we had a role model to look up to. We can only hope that we get to accomplish a fraction of what he has.

Tony is now an Architect and is making his mark in the Lion City with the 4th biggest architectural firm in the world. He is every inch the Tenorio -- even is a spitting image of Lolo Tonio, according to Tita Mita.

As for me, well, I did not turn out to a lawyer although, I am working for the biggest law firm in the world. As a writer. Funny, huh? I also am a mother now, as you might very well know. To a little boy who has become the center of my life. Every time I see him playing with my Dad, I get a glimpse of how it would have been perfect if you were with us now. You would have spoiled him rotten, too.

I miss you, Lolo Dos. I would have wanted to have more years to spend with you, learn from you, and laugh with you. Six years years was far too short but hey, it was still better than nothing. Happy Birthday!

Love,
Tins