Proton Smart Touch Series: is it worth the buy? – Product Review

The Airpods released by Apple brought so much excitement to people but the problem is this said product is costly. So the search had been on for a budget-friendly but a quality bluetooth earphones. Bluetooth earphones are so useful, nowadays, as people are on switch from the traditional earphones with that long, fuzzy wires to a fully wireless that they can use while on commute listening to their playlist, when on exercise mode while listening to motivational upbeat music, or even when they are everywhere listening to their favorite podcasts.

So, the people I’m talking about includes me. I am on the search for a cheap but with a good quality bluetooth earphone that I can use during my review session without any disturbance from that wires. When I was scrolling through my facebook timeline I saw this online shop named Kimstore. I browsed through their products, all are at a fair cost, and I stumbled upon this Bluetooth earphones and, AHA! I think I found the one I am looking for.

The Proton Smart Touch Series caught my attention but it is not an instant sure win. I got doubts but I told myself I need to take risk to know if this product is worth the buy. By the way, I didn’t order from their Facebook Store I went to their Shopee store for a cheaper shipping fee, ofcourse!

Proton Smart Touch Series priced at 899 pesos only.

It is priced at 899 pesos and it is well-packed with that thick, aesthetic box. Inside it includes the manual, an extra jelly earbuds, charging wire (without adapter, just so you know) and of course the pair of our Bluetooth earphones and the charging dock.

Actual photo of the Proton Smart Touch Series. It’s superb! Looks like it’s 2000.

I am using this for more than a week now and, so far, it is working. It does not sound similar to the Apple products but I can assure you, also, it does not sound as other cheap brands, with those vibrations and all that broken sound. It’s worth the buy and this is my new review buddy. Now, If I am to rate it, I will give it 4 stars. It exceeds my expectation and I am amazed by the smart touch specs. Great!

G.R. NO. 221698-700 (Mary Grace Natividad S. Poe vs. COMELEC

FACTS

Mary Grace Natividad S. Poe- Llamanzares (petitioner) was found abandoned as a newborn infant in the Parish church of Jaro, Iloilo by a certain Edgardo Militar and then passed on to his relatives, Emiliano Militar and his wife who later on registered the petitioner as a foundling and was given the name “Mary Grace Natividad Contreras Militar”.

When petitioner was 5 years old, celebrity spouses Fernando Poe Jr and Susan Roces petitioned for her adoption (MTC of San Juan City) which was granted on 13 May 1974 and ordered that her name be changed to “Mary Grace Natividad Sonora Poe”. Only sometime in the Second half of 2005 that the new name was not reflected on the petitioners birth certificate but without delay, petitioners mother have secured the same.

1986- petitioner registered as a voter

4 April 1988- applied for and was issued Philippine Passport

April 5 1993 and 19 May 1998- renewed her Philippine Passport

Initially, the petitioner enrolled and pursued a degree in Development Studies at the University of the Philippines8 but she opted to continue her studies abroad and left for the U.S. in 1988. Petitioner graduated in 1991 from Boston College in Chestnuts Hill, Massachusetts where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Studies.9

On 27 July 1991, petitioner married Teodoro Misael Daniel V. Llamanzares (Llamanzares), a citizen of both the Philippines and the U.S., at Sanctuario de San Jose Parish in San Juan City. The couple flew back to the U.S. two days after the wedding ceremony or on 29 July 1991. 11

While in the U.S., the petitioner gave birth to her eldest child Brian Daniel (Brian) on 16 April 1992.12 Her two daughters Hanna MacKenzie (Hanna) and Jesusa Anika (Anika) were both born in the Philippines on 10 July 1998 and 5 June 2004, respectively.

18 October 2001, petitioner became a naturalized American Citizen.

8 April 2004, the petitioner came back to the PH together with Hanna to support her father’s candidacy for president. During this time, she gave birth to daughter Anika.

Returned to US with her 2 daughter on 8 July 2004.

13 December 2004, rushed back to the PH upon learning of her father’s deteriorating medical condition. Father slipped into comma and eventually died. She stayed in the PH to take care of her father’s funeral arrangements as well as to assist in the settlement of his estate.

In her earnest desire to be with her grieving mother, the petitioner and her husband decided to move and reside permanently in the Philippines sometime in the first quarter of 2005.19 The couple began preparing for their resettlement.

Finally, petitioner came home to the Philippines on 24 May 2005 and without delay secured a Tax Identification Number from BIR. 3 children immediately followed while husband stated in US to complete pending projects.

They stayed in petitioner mother’s place until they purchased a condominium unit at san juan city.

Their Family home in US was eventually sold on 27 April 2006. Petitioner’s husband resigned and arrived in the PH on 4 May 2006 and started working for a major PH company.

They acquired 509-sqm lot in Corinthian Hills, Quezon City where they built their family home.

July 8 2006, petitioner took her Oath of Alegiance to Rep of the PH and file ad sworn statement to reacquire PH citizenship. Bureau of Immigration declared that she is deemed to have reacquired her PH citizenship and children are considered PH citizens

Petitioner registered as voter of Barangay Santa Lucia San Juan City. Also secured a new PH passport.

6 October 2010, Pres. Benigno Aquino III appointed her as Chairperson of the MTRCB. But before assuming her post, she executed affidavit of renunciation of allegiance to US.

2 October 2012, filed with the COMELEC COC for Senator. She answered “6 years and 6 months” to the question “Period of Residence in the Philippines before may 13, 2013” She obtained highest number of votes and proclaimed as Senator

15 October 2015 petitioner filed he COC for the Presidency. She declared that she is a natural-born citizen and that her residence in the PH would be 10 years and 11 months counted from 24 MAY 2005.

This filing of COC triggered the filing of several COMELEC cases against her which were the subject of these consolidated cases.

ELAMPARO – petitioner is not qualified to apply for reacquisition of Filipino citizenship under RA 9225 for she is not a natural born Filipino citizen to begin with. Natural born citizenship must be continuous from birth

COMELEC cancelled her COC for Presidency for it contains false information.

GR. NO 221698-700

This case stemmed from three separate petitions filed by Francisco s. Tatad, Antonio P. Contreras and Amdao D. Valdez against the petitioner before the COMELEC.

Arguments:- Philippines adheres to the principle of jus sanguinis where natural-born filipino are determined by blood relationship, foundlings cannot be considered one. – Neither can petitioner seek refuge under international conventions or treaties for there are no standard practice that automatically confers natural-born status to foundlings. – Petitioner cannot reacquire Philippine citizenship as it only applies to former natural born citizens, and petitioner was not as she was a foundling.- Repatriation under RA9225 did not bestow upon her the status of a natural born citizen. The same only allows to reacquire their Philippine citizenship and will not revert to their original status as natural-born citizens.

COMELEC ruled that petitioner is not a natural-born citizen, failed to complete the 10 year residency and to cancel the COC of the petitioner for Presidency.

Alarmed by the adverse rulings of the COMELEC, petitioner instituted the present petitions for certiorari with urgent prayer for the issuance of exparte temporary restraining order/ status quo ante order and/ or writ of preliminary injunction. The court grants the petition of Grace Poe and to Annul and Set Aside the resolutions released by COMELEC as it is tainted with grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack of jurisdiction. Petitioner is QUALIFIED CANDIDATE for president in May 2016 elections.

ISSUE: WON GRACE NATIVIDAD LLAMANZAREZA POE IS A NATURAL-BORN CITIZEN

HELD:

Petitioner’s blood relationship with a Filipino citizen is DEMONSTRABLE- There is more than sufficient evidence that petitioner has Filipino parents and is therefore a natural born Filipino. – The burden of proof was on private respondents to show that Petitioner is not a Filipino citizen.

The factual issue is whether such parents are Filipinos.- According to statistics provided by the PSA that there is a much higher probability that a child born in the Philippines in that decade the petitioner was born is a natural-born Filipino citizen. – She was abandoned in a Catholic church in a municipality where the population is overwhelmingly Filipinos and she has a typical Filipino features (height, flat nasal bridge, straight black hair…)- If we accept otherwise, it would be contrary to common sense because Foreigners do not come to the Philippines so they can get pregnant and leave their newborn babies behind. It is impractical considering the problems of the PH

To deny full Filipino citizenship to all foundlings and render them stateless just because they may be a theoretical chance that one among the thousands of these foundlings might be the child of not just one, but two foreigners is downright discriminatory, irrational, and unjust. A decision denying foundlings such status is effectively a denial of their birthright.

As a matter of law, foundlings are as a class, natural born citizens. Rafols proposal to include foundlings was rejected but it does not mean that foundlings are not to be included but they are just impliedly recognized already.

Foundlings are likewise citizens under international law. International law can become part of the sphere of domestic law either by transformation or incorporation.

Universal Declaration of Human Rughts- everyone has the right to a nationality and no one shall be deprived of his nationality. – If parents are both unknown shall have the nationality of the country of birth. A foundling is, until the contrary is proved, presumed to have been born on the territory of the State which it was found.

Philippine context- the fact the DFA issued passport to the petitioner, it means that the former acting for executive department considers foundling as Philippine citizens.

The presumption of natural born citizenship of foundlings stems from the presumption that their parents are nationals of the Philippines. This presumption is at more than 99% and is a virtual certainty.

With regard to COMELECS resolution that repatriation does not result to reacquisition of being natural born, the Court Held citing a case which provides that repatriation results in the recovery of the original nationality. If he was originally a natural born citizen before he lost his Philippine citizenship, he will be restored to his former status as a natural born Filipino.

RA 9225- petitioner reacquires his Filipino citizenship he will recover his natural born citizenship.

Congress saw it fit to decree that natural-born citizenship may be reacquired even it it had been once lost. It is not for the CONGRESS to disagree.

Court pointed out that there are only two types of citizens, natural born citizens and naturalized, and that there is no third category of repatriated citizens.

Lastly, with the issue on her application for repatriation where the petitioner wrote “born to”. The law allows petitioner to state that her adoptive parents were her birth parents as that was what would be stated in her birth certificate anyway. She is not obligated to disclose that she was an adoptee.

The whole process undertaken by COMELEC is wrapped in grave abuse of discretion. WHEREFORE, the petition is GRANTED. The resolutions of COMELEC are hereby ANNULLED and SET ASIDE. Petitioner is DECLARED QUALIFIED to be a candidate for President in the National and Local Elections of 9 May 2016.

10 TIPS ON COLLEGE LIFE: the “How To’s” of a College Student.

Last year (2019), when it was me browsing over internet on stuffs regarding the life of a college student. Now, it’s time that I share my tips on College life based from my experiences upon entering the University.

Students have baptized tertiary education with numerous negative, heart-pumping names. I’m telling you; it is truly ‘hell’ out there.

This is undeniably the reality but don’t let it be that way for the long run. You need to splash a water-pressure to lessen the intensity. Consider these 10 tips in your journey to out-battle college life.

1. BE FAMILIAR WITH YOUR ENVIRONMENT

The first main thing you need to do is to “adjust.” I know, and I experienced, the effect of culture shock. It’s like you are in another kingdom far different from your own. It may be difficult to adapt with your new environment but you can do it, anyway. Being familiar with everything that surrounds you, from the campus, the new people, up to the new culture, will, definitely, give you the comfort you need to focus on your studies.

2. MAKE FRIENDS

I know you don’t want yourself to be Out of Place (OP) everytime you enter that classroom. You need to establish rapport with your “new” classmates and go with their vibes. With this, you are not just building friendship but you are, unknowingly, having that “connections” whom you can ask about homeworks, activities or even important announcements. But don’t forget the rules on friendships- don’t approach only when in need!

3. LISTEN TO YOUR PROFESSORS

It is the most important thing you need to practice in college. Although some of them are too “boring” to listen to, you need to do it for your upcoming exams. If you really can’t, you can use your cellular phones to record the whole lecture and listen to it on your free time. Just be mindful about the policy of your school, unluckily, some prohibits recording inside the classroom. (Just don’t get caught if that’s the case.) Remember this secret most professors are doing, the most important information are not those written on the board but those told by them.

4. MAKE YOUR OWN NOTES

While listening to your professors, you need to make your “own” notes, even if the ugliest penmanship you have as long as understandable by you. Don’t write every word, just the most important bits of information. Making your own notes is better than depending on your classmate’s. I am telling you, written notes are better than memory, unless yours is photographic. You can keep your notes and will serve as reference to your review. It can remind you of details your memory can’t recall.

5. MANAGE YOUR TIME

In college, there are alot to accomplish with so minimal time. I am sure you don’t want spending your time with nonsense things rather than accomplishing your school tasks. So, you need to manage your time, you need to set a schedule for every task and divide your time to how many activities you have on your To-Do-List. Just be realistic in doing so. Lastly, you also need to secure yourself a wristwatch, even the cheapest one as long as it functions. Don’t use your phone to look for time, there are temptations on the wait for you in there.

6. SECURE HIGHLIGHTERS AND PENCIL

There is a wide gap between highschool life and college. In college, you are always expected to learn more by yourself, no more spoon-feed. There are tons of reading to do from your books and other photocopied materials. To effectively understand and recall all the contents from those pages, maybe, you want to consider using highlighters and or pencil. Use these to highlight the important details or write down additional notes. Doing this does not only provide you the ease in your skimming or reviewing but it will also aid you in retaining all of this information in your memory. When reading, it is best when all of your senses are functioning.

7. FIND YOUR MOST PRODUCTVE TIME AND PLACE

This one is partnered with your time management. Ofcourse, you don’t want spending your time on a certain task accomplishing nothing. So, you need to asses yourself on what time your brain is more functional. Also, when studying, ‘anywhere’ is not a choice. You need to discover where you are most productive and comfortable. Some are productive at home, in the library, school grounds, some are renting a study haven, and you can also consider coffee-shops. You can accomplish more, and even better, tasks when working on your most productive time and place.

8. ENGAGE IN A GROUP STUDY

Although every student has their own ‘study-routine’ preference. Maybe, you prefer studying alone. Yes, you can do that but, you need to engage in a group study even for once in a while only. Regardless of how intense your study routine, alone, there are details that you can clearly understand with a group, just be mindful in choosing your members. Isolating yourself, when studying, is like depriving yourself of additional knowledge.

9. DISCOVER YOUR MOST EFFECTIVE STUDY TECHNIQUES

There are numerous available ways and techniques students are incorporating in their studies. Some make their notes aesthetic, there is also the use of mnemonics, some walk when reading, others do the ‘lecture’ way, or speaking by themselves, and some only use their Electronic gadgets. Many different techniques but, you need to discover what works for you. By doing this, you are making yourself an extra-time and saving yourself from frustrations. Utilizing your most effective study technique will provide you the ease to understand in a shorter span of time.

10. VACATE SOME TIME TO RELAX

Although there are stressful loads that awaits you every day, don’t forget to clear some time from your schedule for your moment of relaxation. Always think of this as your reward to yourself, for exerting all the efforts and for doing that every day hustle. No matter how little, finishing your tasks is an accomplishment that deserves a personal celebration.

Being a College student feels like your dream profession are inch away from you. It’s just a matter of perseverance, hardwork and motivation.

Despite this pressure of attaining your goal, be mindful on how you want to make the climax out of your college life story. No matter how rough the flow will be, anticipate that your ending will be on that very stage receiving your college diploma.

Although this time, you will only be on your freshman year, you have now earned our CONGRATULATIONS!

FEATURE: The City of Baguio blooms amidst COVID-19 crisis

It’s the time of the year again when the sun almost hugged the earth and sweat rolls over our body. People are craving for gelato, halo-halo or anything that can give the ‘chill.’ This brings us to the ever-famous City of Pines, Baguio City. It is well-known for its cold-breeze and the tourist-spots that will surely consume your phone storage.

But this year, amidst the Covid-19 crisis, the Summer Capital of the Philippines welcomes no tourists but applause from citizens around the country for its combat tactics against the virus which left little to no positive cases in the vicinity.

The Captain of the Ship!

Baguio City traverse the path against big waves with their new on the post leader, Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Beginning from his first day on the mayoral position and up until now, Mayor Magalong never failed his constituents and the whole city to rise as high as their altitudinous geographical location. In their battle against the lethal virus, it is the sense of urgency and preparedness that brought them to reap their harvests now.

With the ‘no-camera-action’ of Mayor Magalong, they have prevented the uncontrollable, rapid increase of Covid-19 cases in the city. Every month of February, the radiant colors of flowers is being showcased through the tourist-magnet Panagbenga Festival where every street is filled with thousands of people to witness such magnificent event. But this year’s moment was postponed and later-on cancelled as an early response against this Covid-19.

It was mid of March when Enhanced Community Quarantine was declared in the city and positivity ignites with the officers on duty in the designated checkpoint, seen on their video circulating online, as they move their bodies through the grove of music despite this time of uncertainty. Another jaw-dropping action of the city-government is their aggressive contract tracing led by Mayor Magalong who exhibits his detective skills being a former chief of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

Equipped Passengers!

As sudden as the lightning and thunder, citizens and even tourists are advised not to step and wander around public areas. Malls are shutdown, parks are closed and Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) operations are stopped. Photos of an apocalyptic-like Baguio went viral online where no one, even the tiniest step, was seen on the road. Dead city as it may appear, but this showcased the plausible, discipline of every law-abiding citizens of Baguio.

On the market scene, a government official, carrying a trumpet-like microphone, informatively enunciate government rules to combat the virus. Market vendors on the other hand, responsibly, rubbed their brushes as they shower disinfectant spray on their own-stall, hours before the curfew arrives.

Amid this global crisis, Baguio may not cater tourist for their needs of a relaxing ambiance and a soothing breeze of wind, the City excellently cater the need of the whole nation of a role model in our current battle. It is the formula of a simple math equation, the camaraderie of an effective leadership, a progressive government plus citizens equipped with discipline and cooperation.

Truly, the City of Baguio is like their flowers- they silently bloom!

INSPIRATION: Welcoming the ‘New Normal’ on Post-Quarantine Life

I still can remember, 12 midnight of January 1^st when we are all boosted by the cracking noise of fireworks, the blow of horns, shouts, foods and shots. Everyone are engrossed to welcome this year with mere hope that 2020 will be a prosperous year, based on the predictions of Feng Shui experts.

But how far have we gone this 2020? It’s been only 4 months and we all can ascertain that it’s a tough year. It all started from the unpredicted eruption of the Taal Volcano preceded by the abrupt news of the death of Kobe Bryant and his little daughter and now this unprecedented CoVid-19 pandemic.

This phrase sounds cliché now but it happens, everything changed. It seems like the world is shutdown. Our travel plans have been postponed, malls are closed, schools and works shifted to online mode, check-points on every boundary. In short, our social life has shutdown.

Since it is still April, maybe it’s not too late about April fools. Maybe it is also not too late to reveal that all of this is just a crazy prank. But even if we spend an all-nighter thinking about this prank-thing, maybe we better go to sleep. Either you accept it or not, this is real. Our life before Quarantine have succumbed to darkness.

There are few days left before April 30, the end of Quarantine if it will not be extended, and we can now escape this room of boredom and loneliness. But have you ever thought about how life would be after this long period of home-isolation? How much preparation are you availing yourself for the Post-Quarantine life?

The end of this Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) doe not also mean this Covid-19 pandemic is over. We all are aware how many plans were postponed or, even worst, cancelled. Everyone is longing to live their life similar to what it is before this crisis. This is why it’s natural to feel joy after the lifting of ECQ. It is somehow coming back to life of the whole country, but not really. This time is not yet the time for victory celebrations. This one is a pain-in-the-heart but I want to tell you that IT IS TOO EARLY TO FEEL SAFE AND LAX.

We have to undergo this period of adjustments. Some things need modifications. I know that what life would be, or even life itself, is unforeseeable but this thing I am going to tell you is one which is predictable. We need to ready ourselves and adapt with what will be the NEW NORMAL.

Before, we have the luxury to wander everywhere barefacedly but now no more. As how the campaign of celebrities goes, “Mask is a Must.” This may not be providing us the comfort but consider this now as a part of everyone’s fashion. We need to wear one everytime, especially when going to public areas getting contact with the people from the crowd.

Another thing, if before we don’t mind seating beside strangers inside a public transportation; now, you cannot. Before, it is totally normal to offer a handshake; now, you must not. If before you have the privilege to talk near anyone; now, please don’t. After quarantine, we need to maintain Physical Distancing. What was then normal to mingle with anyone and anytime is now something we need to refrain from. Keep in mind that staying distant is the NEW self-care.

All of these may be unusual for now but let’s start to embrace and be comfortable with it because this is the NEW NORMAL.

There are lots of shifting and changes and I know you are emerged with the phrase YOLO- You Only Live Once. Yes, we need to live this awesome life to the fullest. But maybe now is the time we can consider to not only live this life in full blasts but to also make it the longest possible we can. Let’s live a healthy life with no worries and no hesitations. Lastly, we need to control ourselves and avoid to panic because, with God’s grace, this pandemic will soon enter to its own grave.

Remember that – Safety is the key to Make It Long Enough because You Only Live Once. SMILE because YOLO.

INSPIRATION: It’s OKAY to not be productive this time of Quarantine

This unprecedented event has made almost everything changed. In just a glimpse, what was then a normal world turns into isolation inside our own homes. It was mid-March when President Duterte declared the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) or lockdown, as what others prefer to call it. As it nears to its end, the stricter implementation by different Local Government Units (LGU’s) is being imposed.

Almost all of our outside habits are shutdown. We are to experience more suffocation inside this cornered rooms. No morning runs. No hangout sessions with friends. No socialization, for now. Imagine how burdensome our life during this lockdown which goes with the panic factor brought by this pandemic.

All of these is a sudden switch, from normal to a work- all from home. It is unforeseen and a huge adjustment is needed which includes school, aside from work. Yes, we need to switch from the traditional style to a virtual learning style or the so-called online classes.

Different hashtags of movements against online classes went viral on twitter. Different posts by students from universities nationwide voicing out their sentiments regarding this matter circulates on social media sites. All of these became fruitful when numerous universities have already suspended their online classes. Despite this suspension, activities are still being provided by professors to be submitted upon the resumption of classes after the lifting of this ECQ.

If you are one from the many that is overwhelmed by school works in the mid of this crisis, I want you to always mind that it’s okay to not be productive this time of quarantine.

Research says that living in isolation, similar to what we experience now, can implant anxiety and psychological distress to persons. Yourself then might not be the same as what it is now and this is none of your fault. Everyone may experience it and in fact, I am too. While I am writing this now, I can feel something strange inside of me and being overwhelmed by the sudden bursts of my notifications from different professors. But this experience also made me write this blog.

I want to tell you to turn your back from stress. Don’t ever feel guilt if you are accomplishing little to no task from your list. While this global-pandemic is on, our life must not focus more on our daily grind but divert yourself to activities that can give you some kind of relaxation.

I understand that as a student we need to have all these tasks done but our focus on these online activities is really different from how we work before this quarantine. I want you to know that you are not alone in this. Just consider that this time we are all in a state of “work from home” and the essence of such is to have your own time, to work at your own pace and to work when your body permits.

Amidst this problem, there are a lot of productivity tips online that you might want to consider but if nothing of these helps, I know something you want yourself to divert with. Call your friends. Maximize the advantages brought to us by the technology. Talk to them or you can even discuss and work together your school activities through video conferencing.

You can also try writing on your journal. Write all your thoughts, experiences and insights. Also, entertain yourself. Watch your favorite films or series on Netflix, laugh yourself out on various vlogs on YouTube. You can also publish your own blog, no matter how bad it is just like mine.

There are lots of activities online you can emerge yourself to. Make this quarantine time your ‘me-time’. Focus on yourself and not too much on your workloads. I know you need to accomplished them but a little count of check on your list-of-activities is enough. It is normal to stay out of focus this time of home-isolation. Don’t stress yourself out. Don’t forget that your holistic health is far more beyond your productivity.

INSPIRATION: The SECRETS behind those stacks of BOOKS.

Maybe you are wondering if it’s only you who prefers to do nothing than read. No, I also did. I have experienced the same struggle as yours, to not love books back in my childhood. Of course there are those bookworms but I know you’re not, we are on the same page that’s why you’re here.

Now that I’m in my 20’s I do now experience the loss of not investing my time in browsing those pages, I do but not for fun but just for the sake of compliance. This is one of my biggest regret in life. I hope I knew these things before, the importance of reading. That’s why I want to share with you these secrets I only realized now, too late.

Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light.
VERA NAZARIAN

First thing is the real essence of these freaking books. Getting afraid of turning those pages is not a fault of yours. I am blaming the system for this. Students are always asked to read a story, even the shortest one, then answer questions at the end of these readings. Is that right? No. It’s giving the reader anxiety that he needs to be keen on every detail to be able to answer the subsequent questions. It’s depriving the readers of their right to pleasure.

That’s the reality but I want to tell you this, books are not created to generate those answers but it was written to be read, to be enjoyed without being so obsessed with micro-elements. There’s nothing bad in missing details. Just read and let your mind process. You have all the freedom.

Another thing rattling the butterflies in your stomach is the thick, bounded, paper infront of you. Oh no, don’t deny it. I know we are again comrade in this fear, we’re both weakshit. But not now, because I got to tell you this secret. Those lengthy piece of paper is not the real jerk, it’s our mindset. We tend to overthink. I have this one thing you need to always remember; it is okay not to finish reading fast. Do you know what is not really okay? To not read at all. Yeah, that’s true.

Those stacks of pages that overwhelms you are to be flipped and read and not just scan and speed-read. If you can finish it one time, well and good but if not, it’s still okay, you can continue whenever you feel to. You can work at your own pace. In the end, it doesn’t matter how fast you’ve done it but how well you’ve enjoyed and understood it.

I think of life as a good book. The further you get into it, the more it begins to make sense.
HAROLD KUSHNER

This next thing I’m going to share you does not only demotivate me but also made me read nothing. That feeling when you have resources available but you don’t know what to pick-up and read first until you left everything not reading even a page or two. Not sure if you also encounter this but I always think that this paper, that journal, a newspaper or whatsoever will not benefit me and it’s not what others read. I always wanted to read the same material as they do because what I am randomly reading maybe a piece of shit and a waste of time.

But why do I realize it only now, that whatever you are reading might contain a different content, context and structure from what others read but it is the same nuggets of knowledge. Read whatever you have, consume every piece of written materials. Don’t compare what you read with what others read. There are lots of genres out there as well as the probability that what others enjoy is different from yours.

No two persons ever read the same book.
EDMUND WILSON

Enough with those monster image of books, just remember that we just tend to overthink. Let’s focus on the bigger picture, what you might reap when you indulge in reading. I know you have this moment of your life that others are talking about something not familiar to you. It is because they read and you don’t. This is the first and biggest fruit from the tree, knowledge. Everything is not learned in school, many of them are behind those pages. You get to know concepts and stuffs depending on what you read.

Of course, when you read you encounter millions of words and half of those are unfamiliar to you. Fear not these brain-whacking words. Let them be there and as you encounter them numerous time you get to be friend with them and be poured onto your vocabulary-pocket. It’s like those plants at your backyard, let them be there until, unconsciously, they bloom.

There are more I want to share but I want you also to traverse the same path and let you realize these things you grow when you invest your time in reading. I want to leave you this reminder, books are like friends with benefits, there are struggles but remember that it is for pleasure. My description is green but I have read it from a book. Now see how reading also influence your way of writing.

Great books help you understand, and they help you feel understood.
JOHN GREEN

Congratulations, you made it this far. Happy Reading! More, more, more more…….!

DISCLAIMER: The quotes I inserted are all from the internet. Only shared it because I guess it adds up as ingredients to this dish of inspiration.

OPINION: Discrimination against middle-class on distribution of relief-goods.

Have you ever noticed the social-classes in our society? Yes, it is undeniably present. The world we habituate is a hierarchal system. It is composed of different levels from the under-privileged, the middle-class and up to the high-ranks. The government give aid more only to a certain group, the marginalized sector. They are the subject of numerous government’s program such as financial assistance, relief goods, and they are even provided with the ‘VIP card’ whenever a calamity strikes the country. But today’s crisis against the COVID-19 pandemic the whole country, regardless of the social class, is affected. A lot has changed including the hierarchal system. Middle classmen, not the poor or underprivileged, are left out of the privileges provided by the government which should be enjoyed by all. Complaints on discrimination in distribution of relief goods are circulating online. Do they really need to be selective in choosing whom to provide?

I’m sure that you are confused on who are these middle-class men I am pertaining to. Let’s not go into technicalities. I really am not sure about the standards to be called middle-class but they are considered as such because of their capability to sustain their daily necessities. Yes, they are those in the fine-line between the poor and the rich. Some of them are employed, some rely on their mini-business or ‘sari-sari store’, others are dependent on their farms and such. Regardless of their source of income they still have this thing in common, they all pay taxes. With this, maybe it is fair enough to label them as the ‘core workers of the society.’ They spend most of their time working, only to provide for their family. But part of this money they all strive for are gone in a second. It went to the government hoping that these funds will be allotted for projects beneficial to the countrymen.

Have you heard of the word ‘tax’ before? It’s a no-brainer, yes. The lifeblood of the government, as they define it. It’s like this, we are the boss and these taxes coming from everything we consume is the salary of the politicians in position. Yeah, that’s how it works but that’s not yet the point. The tax is also allotted for different projects by the government in relation to the needs of its constituents. As I mentioned earlier, they most likely focus on the ‘poorest of the poor.’ The Pantawid Palmiyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is one of those. I find no wrong on this, we need to provide for those much in need. This has become a habit.

In this trying times, let’s help each other for we are all in the same boat; either we row together or we sink together.
DWRITE

Today’s crisis is a nationwide battle, in fact a worldwide one. Our real enemy here is a virus, a pandemic. The government declared the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) last March and has been extended until the end of April. Relief goods are provided by different Local Government Units (LGUs) and the middle-class are discriminated, although not all. Now, they are the marginalized. Not only because they are employed or they can afford to feed themselves that they are not supposedly to be helped. I repeat, there is no wrong in reaching-out to those in need. This time who are in need is everyone.

The goods they provide are not really provided by the government, it is the taxes from the product we consume and paid by the working force, including the middle-class. It is time that the carabao eat the hay from the palays (planted rice) he plows. Maybe the middle-class deserves now to taste even the smallest pulp from the fruits of their labor.

Now is the time to think before you abide by those criteria in choosing whom to provide. Set aside being selective and avoid discrimination. We are all affected, no one must own the focal point. What must be prioritized is the welfare of the nation and countrymen.

OPINION COLUMN: Isyu ng Bansa, may Solusyon na? (isipin mo!)

Alam mo na ba? Siguro naman alam mo na. Matalino ka diba? Share ko lang pero ayon sa isang pananaliksik, napatunayan na ang COVID-19 ay kikitil ng higit sa dalawampung-libong Pilipino at magtatapos lamang ito sa susunod na dalawang buwan. Ngunit bago maglaho ng tuluyan ang salot na virus na ito ay kailangan mo munang kumain ng maraming saging o kahit anong makapagpapalakas gaya ng paglaklak ng multi-vitamins. Siyempre naman kapag mayroong mapagtatagumpayan ay kailangan munang magsakripisyo. Hmmm. Ialay kaya natin ang mga politiko na nagpasok sa atin sa kulungang ito? Alam ko namang mahirap gawin iyan, mahirap kasing puksain ang masamang damo. Hindi din natin sila mareach, kasi nga VIP sila. Pero hindi lahat, yung iba panalo – sa ‘hide and seek’, ang gagaling. Ano ba? Nakapanlulumo! Ang hirap ng kalagayang ito, siguro kailangan ko ng special power. Samahan niyo ako, hingi tayo sa senado. Hey papi, let’s GO!

PAALALA! Kung nais mo ang KATOTOHANAN ay kailangan mong magpatuloy sa pagbabasa.
dwrite

Sandali lang, ang sakit ng tenga ko. Ang ingay kasi sa Social Media. May mask bang pantakip ng tenga? Teka teka. Speaking of mask, may kwento ako! Galing ako kanina sa botika. Inirapan pa ako ni ate, naubo kasi ako sa harap niya. Kasalanan ko ba, wala na ako mabilihan ng facemask? Aha! Mayroon nga pala sa facebook, pero yung presyo pwedeng pang-ulam ng isang-linggo. Kahit alcohol nagkaubusan. Dear hoarders, andami niyo napamili kaya sana safe kayo sa pag-imbak ng sobrang produkto! Grrr. Hindi niyo ba naisip na mas kailangan ng mga frontliners yan! Saglit lang! Sino-sino ba sila? Kasali ba sina kayetano ba yun? Ewan ko ba kung sino yun, basta just stay at home, pumasok sila para sa atin. Pero, wala bang libreng delata diyan mayor? Pampalubag loob lang sa pagkagigil ko sa online class na ito. Ay teka delete natin, suspended na pala online classes pero siyempre may ipapasa sa pasukan. Baka naman ‘surepass’ na yan? Trivia lang, pero pwede na daw maging doctor kahit walang board exam. Baka naman pwede na pumasa kahit nagtitik-tok lang? Sige lang, sabay lang sa uso. Fight your boredom kaysa naman fight against the authority. Yung ipaglalaban mo yung right to travel mo kahit may Enhanced Community Quarantine. Pero okay lang kung ang gusto mo namang destinasyon ay sa kabilang mundo. Literal na iba ang trip! Ayaw mo sumama? Then stay at home! Ang dali lang naman diba?

Saglit, saglit! Huli na ito! Fun Fact, promise nakakatawa ito. Sa Pilipinas, ewan ko ba kung saan yun basta magagaling daw tao dun, solusyong militar nga daw ang ginamit para labanan yung nakakamatay na COVID-19. Sabagay, nakakamatay nga yung kalaban kaya kailangan ng baril at bala, “shoot them dead” ika nga. Dimo naisip yun diba? Ewan ko nga e, kung ano-ano na naiisip ko. Naiisip ko nga habang nagsusulat nito na kaya natin malampasan ang problemang ito. Teka, lalampasan lang ang sinabi ko ha! Hindi kasi ako sigurado kung mapagtatagumpayan natin. Eh ikaw, iniisip mo din ba? Naisip mo ba na lahat ng sinabi ko ay hindi ko alam? Ewan ko ba, basta sinulat ko lang kung ano unang lumabas sa diwa ko. Pero alam kong nabasa mo naman lahata. Teka, teka! Huwag mo i-share! Check mo muna ng mabuti. Baka nga Fake-news lang din ito? Isipin mo!

Never settle for anything believable. Always seek for the truth, because that’s what matters
Dwrite

Isang munting paalala para sa mas responsableng paggamit ng Social Media at
upang maiwasan ang paglaganap ng epidemyang FAKE NEWS!

TRAVEL EXPERIENCE: Ala Eh! BATANGAS

TAAL VOLCANO- little giant. Considering its physical size, this volcano still a picturesque from a far.
WOKE UP LIKE THIS. The kind of morning in Tagaytay– morning in the sky.

Among the family-traditions is to explore every vacation the treasures our country has to offer. Before the Christmas celebration kicks off, we opt to visit CALABARZON, the Southern-Tagalog region of the Philippines. After the eight-hour drive of exhaustion, Tagaytay welcomed us with the Taal volcano’s panoramic view surrounded by the bluish water of the Taal lake and the presence of the awaked sun while the breezy, fresh wind comforts our body.

Started the day at the ever famous and people’s choice Picnic Groove. There are variety of activities that awaits the tourists. Arrange picnic mats on their field of green grasses, maximize the huts with the overlooking view of the Taal Volcano, experience the usual horseback-riding, mingle with friendly animals in the mini zoo, fly colorful kites, and also present is the adventure rides for the brave-hearted.

A Reminder. Be Reminded. Always Mind!
Just try new things. Don’t be afraid. Step out of your comfort zones and soar, all right?
Michelle Obama

I never wasted a second and fearlessly try for the first time the breath-taking, altitudinous zip-line. Fly like a bird around the place with nothing but beauty, wonderful it is!

After the wholesome experience with the family, before we head to where the night will be spent, we traverse the long-stretch way to Santo Tomas, Batangas. Situated here is the Shrine of Saint Padre Pio, a sacred place of the Catholics, perfect spot for a peaceful praying. Waved to us is the arid place opposite from Tagaytay but unexpectedly, partnered with the blessing ceremony of the priest is the rain poured from heaven. Uncertain about what it meant but it’s a miraculous event, surely, will never be forgotten.

A day well spent is an energy well maximized. Whole day of tripping needs a heavy meal enough to regain the momentum we lost. So we located the featured DNG Lomi House in Lipa, Batangas. There are wide array on their menu from ‘solo’ meals to ‘good for sharing’ meals of course we ordered for the latter, the best option for the starved.

What made it Different? —big bowl of hot, creamy soup with thick noodles topped with egg, pork, chicken, chicharon and a lot more!

Hands up on both sides with their overloaded pansit lomi and the first-time experience for the day adds to the satisfaction. So it’s time to strike to the resort located in Mataas na kahoy, Batangas. Narrow roads full of crossings sums up our travel experience but all of the petty challenges turned to an up-curved lips when we witnessed Shercon Resort and Ecology Park, a forest-themed resort, that is obviously in a great distance from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Sometimes, you need to detoxify yourself. Move out from the city and find a place where silence is a thing. Consider Shercon Resort and Ecology Park as a choice– I highly recommend and surely, I will never repent from doing so.
D’ Writes

We stayed in a private-villa with rooms to accommodate the family and an exclusive pool. Despite the frosty wind of December, others have fun on the water while we warms-up our body with the smoke while grasping the aroma of the meat on grill and listen to its satisfying, sizzling sounds. Around us is purely trees and plants ate up by darkness with the scraping of leaves on the dance along the rhythm of the whistling wind, additional is the noise of happiness by the whole family. Stress-free!

FEEL AT HOME. Penny-worthy private villa that can accommodate a whole family.

Shercon Resort and Ecology Park experience is incomplete without trying their swimming pools inspired by the handmade Banaue Rice Terraces of Ifugao. Complements its structure are the tall trees covered with green leaves and the refreshing water that perfectly suits the ambiance. Our experience ended with a free shuttle tour around the vast area to appreciate the spots from every corner.

Amused with the modernized place without the nature’s beauty be sacrificed. Speechless, it’s a must-visit place — all I have to say.
Satisfied Visitor