Today, I receive all God’s love for me. Today, I open myself to the unbounded, limitless, overflowing abundance of God’s Universe. Today, I open myself to your Blessings, healing and miracles.Today, I open myself to God’s Word so that I become more like Jesus Everyday. Today, I proclaim that I’m God’s Beloved, I’m God’s Servant, I’m God’s powerful champion, And because I am blessed, I will bless the world, In Jesus Name, Amen.

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The Great Wall of China in Mutianyu

The Great Wall of China is referred to in Mandarin as Wanli Changcheng   (10,000-Li Long Wall or simply very long wall) BEIJING, ...

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

EULOGY OF PINOY IN HONOR OF JESSE ROBREDO



Eulogy of His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III President of the Philippines In honor of the late 
Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Jesse M. Robredo

[Delivered at the Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia, Naga City, on August 28, 2012]

Bilang kawani ng gobyerno, tanggap na po dapat natin: Darating ang araw na bababa rin tayo sa puwesto—sa madaling salita, magreretiro. Ngayon pa lang po, nai-imagine ko nang magkikita-kita tayo sa isang restaurant nang may kani-kaniyang senior citizen card na nakasilid sa pitaka. Magkakainan tayo, magtatawanan, at pagkukuwentuhan kung ano ang mga pinagdaanan namin. Kung ano ang mga nagawa natin.

Hindi na po makakasama si Jesse sa mga kuwentuhang iyon. Hindi na po natin makakabiruan si Jesse tungkol sa pagkilatis sa mga manliligaw ng anak niya, at sa mga susunod pong taon, wala na rin siya para makipaglaro sa mga magiging apo niya.

Hindi madaling tanggapin ang biglaang pagkawala ni Jesse. Hindi po natin inasahan ang pangyayaring ito, ngunit sa kabila ng ating kaba at pagkabigla nang unang marinig ang balita, ginawa natin ang lahat ng ating magagawa upang mailigtas siya kung papalarin, at kung hindi man, upang mabigyan ng angkop at marangal na pagwawakas ang trahedyang sinapit natin. Habang humahaba po ang panahon, umasa tayo na isang minuto ay darating siya at sasabihing, “Pasensya na kayo, naabala ko kayong lahat sa tagal ng pagdating ko.”

Ngayon po, kaisa ako sa pagluluksa ng sambayanang napagkaitan ng isang tunay na lingkod-bayan. Kung mayroon pong Diyos na nagmamahal sa atin at bukal ng katarungan, sigurado akong kapiling na niya ngayon si Kalihim Jesse Robredo. Nawalan po ng asawa at ama ang kanyang pamilya; nawalan po ang bayan ng isang tapat at mahusay na pinuno. Nawalan po ako ng isang kapatid sa opisyal na pamilya sa Gabinete, ng kasangga sa mga ipinaglalaban, at ng kapartido. Nawalan po ako ng isang mabuting kaibigan.

Sino po ba si Jesse Robredo? Talaga pong huwarang lingkod-bayan si Jesse: nakatuon palagi sa kapwa at handang magsakripisyo. Sa lahat ng mga nakakausap ko, siya ang taong walang kapasepasensya sa bola. Kay Jesse, what you see is what you get. Tahimik at masipag siyang nagtatrabaho. Hindi siya nagpadala sa kapangyarihan. Sa kabila ng naabot niya, nanatiling simple ang kanyang pamumuhay, hindi nalalayo sa karaniwang taong napakalapit sa kanyang puso.

Si Jesse po ang tipo ng tao na batid ang kanyang mga kakayahan at limitasyon. Halimbawa po: sa kantahan. Kadalasan, kung may kasiyahan, kami-kami lang din ang nag-e-entertain sa sarili namin para makatipid. Si Jesse po, hahanap ng mga kasangga para may kasabay siyang kakanta ng chorus, at hindi na siya mag-i-individual performance. Pinakabuo ang kanyang ngiti kapag pasampa na siya sa entablado; tawa po siya nang tawa. Sa dami po ng mga talentadong nagkukumpol-kumpol, nakakapagtaka na halos wala kaming marinig sa mga boses nila bagama’t may mikroponong tangan o hawak.

Dalawa raw po sa paborito niyang kanta ay “My Way” at “Impossible Dream.” Tatak nga po siguro ito ng mga paniniwala niya. Hindi siya naging kuntento sa status quo; pinatunayan niya sa Naga na posible ang pagbabago. Posibleng madaig ang sistemang matagal nang nangingibabaw; posibleng madaig ang mga pulitikong napakatagal namayagpag at kinasangkapan ang pusisyon para sa pansariling interes. Trailblazer po si Jesse sa tuwid na daan. Pinatunayan niyang puwede palang magtagumpay sa pulitika nang hindi nagiging trapo.

Hindi po madali ang pagtahak sa landas na ito, lalo na noong nagsisimula pa lamang siya sa serbisyong pampubliko. Malawak at malalim ang mga pagbabagong inasam niya, at sinimulan niya ito ng hindi nakakatiyak kung may patutunguhan nga bang tagumpay. Katambal ng kanyang mga pangarap ang napakaraming mga praktikal na konsiderasyon, ngunit pinili niyang lumihis sa mga nakasanayang mga pormula sa pulitika. Alam po ito ng mga taong malapit sa kanya: mas pipiliin pa niyang makulong kaysa bumitaw sa mga causa na aming pinaniniwalaan. Nang nasa oposisyon po kami, hindi naman puwedeng suspendihin ganon lang ang mga nasa lehislatura, pero sa katulad niyang Mayor, laging nakabinbin ang banta ng pang-aapi o dineretso ngang inapi na. Mas marami at mas mabigat ang pagtatayang ginawa niya sa kanyang buhay pulitika. Ito pong isyu ukol sa kanyang citizenship, alam naman natin ang motibasyon. Pero hindi siya nagtanim ng galit sa mga nagsampa ng mga paulit-ulit na walang katuturang kasong ito.

Alam po natin ang katotohanan sa pulitika: may ibang nakangiti kapag kaharap mo, pero kung tumalikod ka, pakiramdam mo sasaksakin ka. Napahanga talaga ako ni Jesse, dahil miski ang nagpakita sa kanya ng di-kagandahang ugali, kaya niyang harapin nang walang bahid ng galit at pagkayamot.

Bukod sa mabait, matino, at mahusay si Jesse, mabilis din siyang umaksyon. Lahat, ASAP sa kanya; hindi niya ugaling patagalin sa mesa ang mga magagawa naman ngayon. Kung kayang simulan, sinisimulan agad niya. Naalala ko nga po, minsan may mga informal settler na kailangang ilipat, dahil nakatira sa danger zone sila kapag bumabaha. Nag-text po sa atin na nanghihingi ng tulong at saklolo; kinakabahan sila sa paglilipat, at nagtatanong kung may kabuhayan ba silang daratnan. Kinausap po sila ni Jesse. Matapos ang dalawang oras na meeting, ang mga SOS text, naging thank you text na po. Salamat Jesse!

Iba po talaga si Jesse. Kapag mayroon tayong matinding problemang kinakaharap, palagi naman pong nandiyan ang mga taong sumosuporta at magsasabing, “Nasa likod mo kami.” Pero si Jesse po, kabilang sa mga bibihirang tao na ang sasabihin, “Sir, ako na lang ang haharap, ako na lang ang pu-pronta.” Hindi po nasa likod. Talagang kasama sa pilosopiya niya sa buhay ang hindi maging pabigat sa kapwa; ang palaging mag-ambag ng pinakamalaki niyang maiaambag, o lagpas pa, para makahanap ng solusyon.

Kay Leni, at kina Aika, Tricia, at Jillian: Sa totoo lang, medyo nahihiya ako sa inyo. Kayo ang pamilya; sigurado akong pinakamabigat ang kalungkutang nararamdaman ninyo ngayon. Pero talagang pinapahanga n’yo kami, dahil kayo pa ang nagbibigay ng lakas sa amin, kayo pa ang nagbibitbit sa amin.

Leni, alam mo naman, hindi tayo masyadong nagkakakilala, dahil na rin pinilit ni Jesse na magkaroon siya palagi ng private time kasama ang kanyang pamilya. Alam ng Gabinete ito: Sa hirap ng aming mga pinagdadaanan, ang pinakagantimpala ko po sa kanila ay paminsan-minsan ang pagpapakain ng isang kaaya-ayang hapunan. Pero pag weekend ako nagyaya ng kainan, siguradong magpapaumanhin na si Jesse. Sagrado sa kanya ang oras kasama ang pamilya. Palagi siyang nagmamadaling makauwi sa Naga.

Hindi lang ang mag-anak na Robredo ang nawalan ng Padre de Familia. Pati ang buong DILG, ang mga nagtatrabaho sa field, ang lahat ng natulungan niya, ang buong Naga, parang nawalan ng ama. Kaya nga po bukod sa kalungkutan, matinding panghihinayang din ang nararamdaman ko ngayon. Ang dami niyang mga plano, at talagang kitang-kita na po ang direksyon ng mga reporma. Namuno siya sa pagpapa-totoo ng mga teorya sa pamamahala na pinag-uusapan lang sa mga libro. Ginawa po niya iyan sa Naga, at iyan din po ang nasimulan na niyang gawin sa pambansang antas. Kayo na po ang mamili– sa Bureau of Fire Protection, kung saan nakakuha siya ng mga fire trucks na mas mura pero mas maganda ang kaledad at mas marami ang kakayahan; sa BJMP; sa PNP; pati na ang mga informal settlers. Maraming mga lumang problema na, sa tulong ni Jesse, sa wakas, ay nakikitaan na natin ng solusyon. Sayang po talaga.

Ngunit wala naman sigurong magsasabing may kulang pa sa mga inambag ni Jesse. Dapat po yata, tayong mga nakinabang sa kanyang buhay at pagsusumikap, ang tumumbas sa kanyang mga nagawa, at mag-ambag naman ng parte natin.

Naalala ko pa po ang mga agam-agam namin nang biglaan ding pumanaw ang aking ama noong taong 1983. Marami po sa amin ang nagtanong: Paano na tayo? Sino ang magtutuloy? Parang ligaw na ligaw po kami; nawala ang aming pinuno.

Pero sabi nga po ng aking ina, “If cowardice is infectious, then bravery is all the more infectious.” Ang nag-iisa, dumami nang dumami hanggang nakamit na nga ng buong bayan ang pagbabago. Hindi mauubusan ng mga bayani ang lahing Pilipino. At kung si Jesse ay isa sa mga naging bunga ng sakripisyo ng aking ama, sigurado po akong may ibubunga ring mga bagong bayani ang pagpanaw ni Jesse.

Sa ipinapakitang pagpupugay at pagmamahal ng taumbayan ngayon, sigurado ako, may isang henerasyon na naman ng mga Pilipinong mabibigyang-inspirasyon, at mahihimok na maglingkod sa ngalan ni Jesse. Sila po ang magdadala ng katiyakan: Katiyakang makikita natin ang plano ng Diyos sa likod ng pagkawala ni Jesse. Katiyakang makukuha natin ang gantimpala ng katarungang nagbubukal sa pagmamahal ng Diyos: Na lahat ng kagandahan at kabutihang naidulot at naipunla ni Jesse, ay tunay at buong-buong mapipitas dahil sa dulot niyang inspirasyon.

Ang sabi po sa pangalawang liham ni Paul to Timothy, Chapter 4, Verses 6 to 7: “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith…” Angkop na angkop po ito kay Jesse; mission accomplished na siya sa mundong ito. Marapat lang na matamasa na niya ang mga gantimpala ng isang buo at mabuting buhay, sa piling ng Diyos Ama. Nasa hanay na po si Jesse ng mga bayaning sumusubaybay sa atin mula sa kalangitan, at nagbibigay-lakas sa atin upang ipagpatuloy ang kanilang mga mabuting gawain. Kaya’t huwag na po tayong lumuha. Sa halip, magpasalamat tayo. Sa maikling panahong narito siya sa mundo, tayo pa ang nabiyayaan ng pagkakataong makapiling si Jesse Manalastas Robredo. [Applause]

Paalam, Jesse. Sa ngalan ng sambayanan maraming, maraming salamat.


GOODBYE JESSE ROBREDO: Philippine Legion of Honor Award


Today, August 28, 2012, Tuesday, we will be saying our final goodbye to Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary and former Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo. He will be laid to his final resting place in his beloved Maogmang Lugar (happy place) - Naga City.

President Pnoy offered that Mayor Jesse be buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes' Cemetery), but Jesse's wife Atty. Leni turned it down because she knows that her husband won't be happy about that.

It is hard for me to write about Mayor Jesse without ending up crying not only because I personally know the man but because he is so sayang. He could have been a good president. He led by example. He led without fanfare. He was also a fellow Tsinoy.  Robredo is an adopted name. His real surname is Lim. His dad is pure Chinese. Jesse is a Chinese mestizo but proud of his heritage. He visited his lineage in the village of Fujian province way back in 2004. His heart and soul is pure Filipino. He served as mayor in Naga City for 19 years.

A shovel in his hand, barefoot and working to empty the paths full of thick mud due to a recent  typhoon. Just like an ordinary laborer, he worked together with everyone else. Who would have thought that the guy is the Mayor of Naga City?
I often bumped into him in purontong shorts and slippers without any bodyguard. He walked in the streets of Naga and visited his constituents without the wangwang (siren) or Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). He treated everyone with respect and dignity. He never ever maligned anyone.

Maybe a lot of you do not know that Jesse Robredo is Dela Salle University/ Harvard-educated. Despite his achievements, he remained in the background. Never imposing. He was offered a job by the World bank at the same time that he was offered the DILG position. He chose to serve instead to the Filipino people than gain financial wealth for himself and his family. Yes, he chose to served YOU!

He is an extra ordinary Father and husband. Leni quips "He was always working so hard, but at the same time, always rushing home to be with his family"

His daughter Tricia recalled that whenever he is angry, (hey, he is still human:-P) he would bite his nails rather than say a bad word that might hurt other people.

He would tutor and create sample math problems for Jillian over the phone while in the middle of a meeting.
In parties, baptism, wedding or birthday he preferred to eat at the garage together with other people. He didn't want to be treated as a Very Important Person (VIP).

He also introduced to the youth the Summer internship program. Yes, Nagueño youth was given a chance by Mayor Jesse to experience public governance every summer vacation.

He remained humble and a true Filipino in the real sense of the word, always ready to help, with or without cameras. 

The extraordinary greatness of Jesse Robredo lies in the fact that he showed extraordinary good behavior, good governance and good habits that many of our leaders no longer seem to have or never had. He served the Filipino people silently without the fanfare. He showed us that an ordinary promdi (slang for 'from the province') is capable of providing excellent public service.

You are truly a loss not only to
Nagueño but to all Filipino people, Mayor Jesse Robredo.  Your Legacy of Hard Work and Dedication to work for the service of Filipino will forever remain in our hearts and minds.

With Mayor Jesse, what you see is what you get. He worked silently and never used his position to get financial gain.

It might take another 100 years for another Jesse Robredo to come in our midst. Jesse Robredo is a tough act to follow.

President Benigno C. Aquino will be conferring the Philippine Legion of Honor with the rank of Chief Commander on Secretary Jesse M. Robredo (posthumous) today, Tuesday, August 28, 2012, the same day as the State Funeral for the late Secretary. The medal was made by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines), the official manufacturer of State awards.

The Philippine Legion of Honor is considered the highest award the President can bestow without the need for approval of Congress.

President  Aquino will lead the state funeral, which includes full military honors, and deliver a eulogy for Robredo after this morning’s funeral Mass at Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia.

Yesterday, August 27, 2012, during the observance of National Heroes’ Day , President Aquino honored Robredo, calling him a “true and a good leader” who “heroically” chose service over transactional politics.

“Tomorrow we’re bringing a true and a good leader, Secretary Jesse Robredo, to his final resting place,” the President said in a speech at Libingan ng mga Bayani.

“He heroically chose a simple lifestyle and focused on the welfare of others before himself, and put his principles above transactionalism,” quips Pres. Aquino.


The schedule includes final public viewing, the Legion of Honor ceremony and the state funeral.

The final public viewing starts after midnight on Monday and ends at

8 a.m. today, to be followed by the concelebrated requiem Mass at 10 a.m. 
 
Namumundo ako pero at the same time nauugma ta nakakamiaw bako lang ang Pilipino kungdi ang kinaban na may sarong extraordinaryong promding lider sa hinalian ming banwaan.

Goodbye, Mayor Pogi, we will miss you and your tsinelas (slippers) leadership. 

"Pogi," is a Filipino word that means "handsome". It is the nickname of Jesse Robredo in Naga City, where he served as mayor for 19 years.

Mabalos (thank you), Mayor Jesse.


Sunday, August 26, 2012

Stackers Burger Café: Original Baked Chicken Goodness


Stackers Burger Café: Original Baked Chicken Goodness
It's the first time that I've heard about a baked chicken that looks like fried chicken. It is an innovation in Chicken technology unique to Stackers Burger Café. I find the baked chicken soft on the inside but a little bit salty on my first bite. But when I ate rice together with the baked chicken, it blended well and tasted just right.
 
Its baked goodness is 80% less greasy than your ordinary fried chicken. I hope they'll come up with spicy baked chicken real soon. Three pieces Baked Chicken cost Php 205.00
The very accommodating president and CEO of IFoods Inc.Mr. Bryan Tiu, who is at the helm also of other homegrown brands like Tokyo Café, Peri-Peri Chicken and Kogi Bulgogi ordered for me one of Stackers Burger Café best sellers- the buffalo wings Php 265 for 6 pieces. I ate a small piece and all I can say is wow! The chicken is so soft and tender. 
 I also took a teeny weeny bite of their house burger Php 170.00
The burger is unexpectedly soft, juicy, and creamy in my mouth. The semi-sweet bun was a great complement to the salty patty, which was lubricated by tomato, American cheese, onion bits, mayo and the very flavorful Stackers original sauce to make it easier to swallow complete with fresh lettuce.
Stackers Burger Café are all about three things : 
  1. A tasty BUN
  2. Juicy 100% Australian Beef
  3. and a complementing signature SAUCE of your choice. 
That's their frame, their canvass for a simply Auss'm burger. 
 Crispy chips cost Php 55.00 are big cut crispy fries loaded with carbs that fill you up in a jiff.
This is Stackers Burger Café Creamy Carbonara Php 98.00. Taste just right. This spaghetti pasta consists of delicious creamy garlic carbonara sauce with sliced mushrooms and Bacon bits. I have to note that the spaghetti noodles are cooked to perfection. Definitely a must-try.
 
Iced Chocolano Php 120

I love this drink! Chocolate Php 95.00
A waiter took my order at my table instead of me lining up at the counter. This is cool, making you feel you are in a fine dining resto than a fast food. Yeah. definitely one of the things I like at Stackers Burger Café. Another plus is that they don't have any service charge.

And I think it is cool to mention that they have a FREE WI-FI 24/7. Just asked for the password from their staff.
The author together with Mr. Bryan Tiu.
They offer a wide variety of choices on their menu.
Stackers Burger Café has a centralized delivery system. Just call Telephone #709-9999 for your orders or log in and order online at www.citydelivery.ph
Stackers Burger Café is open 24/7.
So here is a question you should ask your loved ones and friends-

Have you tried the latest innovation on chicken?

Stackers Burger Café proudly presents its Original Baked Chicken Goodness available in all their branches.

Stackers Burger Café Branches:
  1. 4th Flr., Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila , Domestic Airport, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines Phone#:(632) 659-8271, (632) 659-8287
  2. Venice Piazza, Mckinley Hill, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
    Phone#:(632) 659-8271, (632) 659-8287
  3. Eastwood City Walk
    G/F Eastwood City Walk, E Rodriguez Ave Bagumbayan, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines Phone# (02) 709-2134
  4. Metrowalk, Meralco Avenue,  Ugong, Pasig,Metro Manila, Philippines Phone# (02) 451-1331
  5.  Promenade Mall in Greenhills.
  6.  Alabang Town Center, Alabang Zapote Road Alabang, Muntinlupa.


SHUTTER PLAY: PHOTOGRAPHY FOR KIDS


SHUTTER PLAY PHOTOGRAPHY FOR KIDS

When:  September 1, 3-6PM

Where: Mindanao Lobby

Shutter Play for Kids: Registration Mechanics:

For the PUBLIC
  1. The workshop is open to kids/teens ages 10-16 years old only. A parent or legal guardian should register in behalf of the participant.
  2. To register for the workshop, present a minimum of P1,000 single purchase receipt from any TriNoma outlet excluding bills payment, Landmark Supermarket and Department store from August 27-31, 2012.
  3. Only twenty (20) slots are available to the public for the workshop.
  4. Present/exchange your receipt/s at Level 1 Concierge (near Activity Center) from 10am to 9pm only. Workshop passes may be claimed from August 27-31, 2012.  Only one (1) entry pass may be redeemed by every customer.
  5. TriNoma reserves the right to validate receipts. Receipts that are defaced, crumpled, tampered, photocopied and smaller than the actual size will not be honored.

For A CARDHOLDERS
  1. The workshop is open to kids/teens ages 10-16 years old only. A parent or legal guardian with an A Card membership should register in behalf of the participant.
  2. Only the FIRST THREE (3) AYALA MALLS A CARDHOLDERS will be accommodated for this event. Each cardholder is entitled to one (1) workshop pass only.
  3. To register, please call the TriNoma A Card hotline at 901-3000, starting August 25 at 10am.
  4. Strictly one reservation shall be accepted per phone call. Each cardholder is required to leave his or her name, Ayala Malls A Card number and mobile number when making a reservation. A confirmation text shall be sent to the cardholder to confirm reservation.
  5. Workshop passes may be claimed starting on August 26, 10am at the A Card Concierge located at the Activity Center. Please present your Ayala Malls A Card and the confirmation text when claiming your workshop pass. The presentation of BOTH the A Card and confirmation text when claiming shall be strictly implemented.
For inquiries, please call our Concierge Hotline at 901-3000.

For VIPINOY MEMBERS
  1. The workshop is open to kids/teens ages 10-16 years old only. A parent or legal guardian with a VIPinoy membership should register in behalf of the participant.
  2. Only the FIRST THREE (3) VIPINOY CARDHOLDERS will be accommodated for this event. Each cardholder is entitled to one (1) workshop pass only.
  3. To register, please call the TriNoma VIPinoy Lounge hotline at 720-9154, starting August 25 at 10am.
  4. Strictly one reservation shall be accepted per phone call. Each cardholder is required to leave his or her name, VIPinoy card number and mobile number when making a reservation. A confirmation text shall be sent to the cardholder to confirm reservation.
  5. Workshop passes may be claimed starting on August 26, 10am at the TriNoma VIPinoy Lounge. Please present your VIPinoy card and the confirmation text when claiming your workshop pass. The presentation of BOTH the VIPinoy card and confirmation text when claiming shall be strictly implemented.
For inquiries, please call our VIPinoy Lounge hotline at 720-9154.

Registered participants are required to bring the following to the workshop:
  • Either a point-and-shoot camera or a DSLR camera
  • Three colorful items with unique shape or texture (e.g. toys, assorted candies, etc.)
 


THE MISTRESS FULL TRAILER: Starring Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz


THE MISTRESS FULL TRAILER: Starring Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz

Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz's love team is now on its 10th year.  A good news to their fans: Star Cinema marks their 10th anniversary via 'The Mistress,' the onscreen couple's first-ever mature film which will be shown on theaters nationwide on September 12, 2012.

The Mistress is an extra-ordinary love story between Sari Alfonso (Bea) and JD Torres (John Lloyd).  They met in an unexpected circumstance. If you're JD what will you do when the only woman who captured your heart is committed to a married man?

I am not paid to post this. I am just excited to watch this movie! I hope Star Cinema invites us.



Robert Blair Carabuena Public Apology Video


Robert Blair Carabuena Public Apology Video

If you recall, Robert Blair Carabuena is the infamous motorist who was caught on video berating traffic enforcer Saturnino “Sonny” Fabros last Aug 11, 2012.



Friday, August 24, 2012

JESSE ROBREDO'S WAKE: SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC VIEWING IN MALACANANG


JESSE ROBREDO'S WAKE: SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC VIEWING IN MALACANANG
Malacanang will hold a public viewing for Hon. Sec. Jesse Robredo at Kalayaan Hall :

Friday night, August 24, 2012 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Saturday, August 25, 2012 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On Sunday morning, August 26, 2012  Robredo’s remains will be brought back to Naga City, his hometown. He will then be laid to rest on Tuesday,  August 28, 2012.


Thursday, August 23, 2012

Tribute To Jesse Robredo


Everyone is invited to pay tribute to the exemplary life and work of Secretary Robredo through your testimonials and remembrances.

People are encouraged to use the unified hashtag #salamatjesse for their Twitter messages. Malacanang also invite all those who wish to share their thoughts, memories, and messages of sympathy for the Robredo family to please visit www.gov.ph/salamatjesse 

Photo source: Inquirer


JESS ROBREDO UPDATE: PNoy orders State Funeral and 6-Days of National Mourning for Jesse.


JESS ROBREDO UPDATE: PNoy orders State Funeral and 6-Days of National Mourning for Jesse.

Jesse Robredo does his job quietly but surely. He always lay low. Always humble. There was never an incident that he throws his weight around.

Because of his untarnished records, exceptional public service, Jesse will be given Full state honors. The highest to be accorded to a worthy son of the Republic of the Philippines.

For six days, beginning Wednesday, all government buildings and installations around the country were enjoined to lower the national flag to half-staff in compliance with the President’s proclamation declaring national days of mourning for Robredo from August 21 until his interment.

The body of the late interior secretary will lie in state in Malacañang from Friday to Sunday as part of state funeral preparations, but officials have yet to decide whether this will be open to the public.

The military, police and the Presidential Security Group will accord Robredo official honors, culminating in a gun salute at his interment on Tuesday in his hometown in Naga City, according to  Communications Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III.

“The state funeral is the highest possible kind of a funeral that a republic can give. Whether you are a medal of valor winner or a president, the essential elements are the same. There would only be minor differences based on your rank and that’s in the number of guns in the gun salute,” Quezon said.

A state funeral is accorded to a President, Senate President, House Speaker, a national artist or a medal of valor awardee, or anybody that the President deems “worthy,” he said.

Military honors

According to Quezon, full honors for Robredo will include the following:

  • On Friday morning, the Philippine National Police will escort Robredo’s body from Archbishop’s Palace in Naga City to Naga Airport, and will render departure honors.
  • At the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, the Armed Forces of the Philippines will render arrival honors.
  • From the air base, the PSG will escort the body, and will render honors upon arrival in Malacañang, including a gun salute.
  • The body will lie in state in Malacañang.
  • On Sunday morning, the PSG will render departure honors, and escort the body back to Villamor Air Base.
  • At the air base, the AFP will render plane side and battalion honors.
  • The AFP will then again perform arrival honors at Naga Airport.
  • From the airport, the body will be escorted by the PNP to Naga City Hall.

More honors

The interment is set for Tuesday. And since, it’s a state funeral, the following honors will be provided:

  • An escort battalion.
  • A funeral cortege with the participation of the uniformed services.
  • Arrival honors at place of interment.
  • Gun salute.
  • Playing of taps.
  • Turnover of the national flag that covered the coffin to his widow.
A book of condolences in Philippine consulates and embassies will be opened according to Malacanang.

Family accepts

Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said Robredo’s family had accepted the rare honor.

Malacañang announced the state funeral for the 54-year-old Robredo, whose body was  retrieved on Tuesday morning from the wreckage of a four-seater light plane that crashed while attempting an emergency landing at Masbate Airport. Robredo was en route home from Cebu City, where he had delivered a speech on behalf of President Aquino.

Robredo’s remains will be flown from Naga to Manila on Friday morning, and the wake will be held in Malacañang until the body is flown back to Naga on Sunday morning. 

Robredo’s wake in Malacanang will be most probably be held at Heroes Hall but details are not finalized yet by the committee on funeral arrangements and burial.

To date they are still undecided whether the wake would be open to the public or not. They however ruled out bringing Robredo’s body to his office at the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) at his family’s request.

Traditionally, wakes for presidents were held in Malacañang, but exceptions were made for some members of the official family, according to Quezon. Wakes for the country’s leaders were held in Rizal Hall, while those for the rest were done in Heroes’ Hall, he said.

The last time the Palace had a president lying in state was when former President Diosdado Macapagal passed away in April 1997. The remains of the late Press Secretary Cerge Remonde were also brought to Malacañang in January 2010. 

Everyone is invited to pay tribute to the exemplary life and work of Secretary Robredo through your testimonials and remembrances.

People are encouraged to use the unified hashtag #salamatjesse for their Twitter messages. Malacanang also invite all those who wish to share their thoughts, memories, and messages of sympathy for the Robredo family to please visit www.gov.ph/salamatjesse


PMAP: 49TH Annual Cebu Conference



The 49TH Annual Conference of the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) will be held on September 12 to 14, 2012 at the Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City. With the theme, REVOLUTIONIZING PEOPLE MANAGEMENT! GREAT MINDS, BOLD CHANGES, UNPARALLELED RESULTS.


This year’s Conference reflects the wave of revolutions on the political front and how businesses and organizations share the same challenge of not only changing our leaders but also changing the way we lead people. As people managers, we say that a change of men is no longer enough. What we need is a change IN men!                                      The first two days of the Conference will feature plenary sessions with CEO’s and thought leaders who will tackle the changing business environment and discuss the strategic role of HR in leading and executing HR programs to transform and support business goals. The focus areas of these sessions are; “Deepening Leadership Bench”, “Driving Innovation”, and “Accelerating Talent Development”.

The third day of the Conference will feature breakout sessions and workshops with topics on Talent Acquisition; Organizational Change, People Productivity and People Engagement. There will also be a SITE BEST PRACTICE TOUR that will showcase best practices of four companies based in Cebu City. Delegates will also be able to actively participate in creating and managing their own agenda around the central theme of the Conference through OPEN SPACE TECHNOLOGY.


For registration and other inquiries, please call PMAP at tel. no. 726-1532 or email
pmap@pmap.org.ph. You can also visit www.pmap.org.ph and follow their Facebook fanpage at https://www.facebook.com/PMAP1956 for updates for upcoming events and other activities.


SM CITY FAIRVIEW: Lookbook Fashion Show


Each year, SM City Fairview holds a fashion show that aims to promote mall’s fashion retail stores and to brand SM City Fairview as a fashion haven of the North East Metro in the long term. 

For this year, SM City Fairview will be taking it a notch higher by staging again a major fashion show to be dubbed as “Lookbook” on August 24, 2012, 6pm at the Annex Atrium, SM City Fairview. 
 
The “Lookbook” Fashion Event will revolve around fashion trends of the season in diverse styles, statements and inspirations. The over-all concept is hinged towards digital and new media such as Facebook, Instagram, Wordpress, Twitter, etc. which are all meant to be shared.
Why Look Book?

 
In these times when a day is not complete without checking on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and Instagram, communication is everything. And everything is about SHARING.

 
Thus, even the fashion world has embraced this contemporary platform to connect to a wider and younger market - a new accessory for one’s BFF is bought after seeing a stylista’s fashion blog, a pair of shoes is ordered online after being inspired from a model’s tweet.

 
So a fashion trend is not complete when it does not exist in the realm of social media. A simple outfit becomes a fashion ensemble when one shares it online and gains positive comments.

 
A personal style can be transformed into an online fashion diary and when it creates hype, it becomes a FASHION STATEMENT.

 
LOOKBOOK; or the online fashion diary is inherently meant to be shared. And the brands featured in one’s Lookbook are the brands that one has chosen to embrace. And by sharing, we let others understand and eventually embrace our brand. 

 
The Biggest Fashion Event Yet

 
With the help of the finest production crew, stylists and the top models of the country today, it aims to be the biggest fashion event of SM City Fairview to date.

 
The show will feature SM City Fairview’s mix of foreign and local brands and their newest collections such as:

  •  Celine (CLN)
  •  Charlie
  •  Elle Girl
  •  Folded & Hung
  •  Mags
  •  Oxygen
  •  Penshoppe
  •  Plains and Prints
  •  Regatta
  •  Sanuk
  •  Scoop Project
  •  Sketchers
  •  Tomato
  •  Una Rosa
  •  SM Accessories
  •  SM Men’s Fashion – Just Delivered Jeans.
With this good line-up, the event will be sliced into different segments that will echo fun, young and vibrant tones. These are Fashionably Chic, Prep For School, National Party Day and Casual Craze 
 
To jazz-up each of the collection, Philippine Fashion Week Designer and stylist of the stars- Jot Losa will take part in the fashion show as he is tasked to do the styling. 

 
SM City Fairview just keeps in getting better and bigger with a wide array of fashion brands making it a perfect spot for the North Metro’s fashionable people.


IL TERRAZO VIP TICKETS GIVEAWAY


IL TERRAZO VIP TICKETS GIVEAWAY

Party, Party!

To All Party Boys and Girls:

What: Party with us @Il Terrazzo with Gino Quillamor of RX, DJ CALLUM DAVID & DJ EURIC LUMANOG as we LAUNCH and present the newest lifestyle hub in QC, IL TERRAZZO
When: August 24, 2012
Where: IGNITE @IL TERRAZO

IGNITE @IL TERRAZO, a fiery display that will ignite your senses. We will be giving away 5 VIP tickets to this event!

*Free-Flowing Drinks
*Lots of prizes from our tenants
*great music from our guest DJ's and live performers!!
*Media/Bloggers launch



Mechanics:
1. Like Il Terrazzo on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/IlTerrazzo) and on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/Il_terrazzo)
2. Like and follow my blog

3. (on Facebook) Post the photo and caption "IGNITE @Il Terrazzo (http://www.facebook.com/IlTerrazzo) and Party with DJ CALLUM DAVID, DJ EURIC LUMANOG and GINO QUILLAMOR OF RX as we launch the newest lifestyle hub in the Metro!"
4. (on Twitter) Tweet "IGNITE @Il_Terrazzo and Party with @callumdavid1, @djeuric and @ginoboi as we launch the newest lifestyle hub in the Metro!"
5. Random winner will be chosen FRIDAY MORNING!


KADAYAWAN SA DABAW HOTEL DEALS FROM AGODA



KADAYAWAN SA DABAW HOTEL DEALS FROM AGODA

Hooray!  Good News to travelers! Agoda.com -The preferred booking magnate of Filipinos offers Kadayawan Hotel Deals in Davao City to encourages more Pinoys and international travelers to experience Davao’s brightest festival.
 

Agoda.com is Asia’s leading hotel booking site and part of Nasdaq-listed Priceline Group (Nasdaq: PCLN), today announced a selection of deals on hotels in Davao for the Philippines' Kadayawan Festival.

From now until the end of September, Kadayawan Festival brings a slew of vibrant cultural events to the city of Davao, and with it a unique opportunity for travelers to delve into ethnic Filipino culture and tradition. With origins as a harvest festival held by the indigenous tribes of the Davao province, Kadayawan began as a form of thanksgiving and is today the largest festival in the southern Philippines.

Unifying the different ethnicities of the Mount Apo region, the theme of Kadayawan 2012 is "Ten Tribes, One Vibe". Festivities include cultural performances, handicraft displays and stalls, live music concerts with traditional local street foods, arts and artifacts exhibitions, colorful parades, trade expos, sports events and more.

Aside from the myriad scheduled events of Kadayawan, Davao is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Adventure seekers can head to the hiking trails of Mount Apo, the Philippines' highest peak at nearly 3,000 meters. There are trails for all levels of fitness in the surrounding national parkland, and several that lead to the summit, where experienced trekkers can view Mount Apo's crater lake.

Vacationers looking for a more relaxed experience can head to Eden Nature Park or simply enjoy stunning regional panoramas from the high altitude restaurants and viewpoints of Jack's Ridge. For an exciting day out with the family, there's a crocodile breeding center not far from the city center, complete with animal enclosures and a butterfly park. A Philippine Eagle Center is also a great educational trip for all ages, housing this endangered species as well as other animals and raptors.

For an urban Davao experience, visitors will find plenty to do in Davao city. Historic architecture, cathedrals, Buddhist temples, and the People's Park give travelers a variety of different cultural aspects to explore. There is also a generous selection of modern malls in Davao, for those who can't pass up the possibility of finding a local sale.

To see Davao during one of its most exciting times, make the most of Agoda.com's low rates by clicking to www.agoda.com/asia/philippines/davao.html or checking out a selection of the best deals on offer below. Agoda.com Kadayawan SALE: Davao hotel deals!

 
Pearl Farm Beach Resort – up to 25% discount!
From USD 99 (PhP 4,191.66) per night. 

 
Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao – up to 10% discount!
From USD 69 (PhP 2,921.46) per night. Minimum stay 3 nights. 

 
Marco Polo Davao Hotel – 12% discount!
From USD 95 (PhP 4,022.30) per night. Minimum stay 3 nights. 

 
Apo View Hotel – 20% discount
From USD 64 (PhP 2,709.76) per night. Must book at least 7 nights in advance. 

 
Hof Gorei Beach Resort – Pay 2, Stay 3!
From USD 47 (PhP 1,989.98) per night. 

 
The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases - Up to 46% discount!
From USD 53 (PhP 2,244.02) per night. 

 
Casa Leticia Business Inn – up to 50% off!
From USD 28 (PhP 1,185.52) per night. 

 
North Zen Hotel – up to 50% off!
From USD 26 (PhP 1,100.84) per night.

 
The Royal Mandaya Hotel - 40% discount!
From USD 55 (PhP 2,328.70) per night. 

 
Courtview Inn – 15% discount!
From USD 37 (PhP 1,566.58) per night. Minimum stay 3 nights. 

 
Wondering what Agoda is? Wonder no more!


About Agoda Company Pte Ltd:
 

Agoda Company Pte Ltd (agoda.com) is a leading Asia-based, online hotel reservations company, which specializes in securing the lowest discount hotel prices. Agoda.com is part of Priceline.com (Nasdaq:PCLN). Agoda.com's network includes more than 180,000 hotels worldwide. The multinational staff of more than 1,000 professionals, located throughout the world, provides a first-rate reservation service that uniquely combines local knowledge and local connections to provide the best hotel deals to both business and leisure travelers.

In addition, agoda.com customers participate in the agoda.com Rewards Program, earning further discounts and free stays. Unlike programs that limit travelers to a single chain, the agoda.com Rewards Program allows customers to redeem Rewards Points at thousands of hotels around the globe, at any time. A member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), agoda.com's aim is to promote travel by making it more affordable and more accessible to more people.


OPERATION SMILE PHILIPPINES: Giving the Gift of Smile One Child at a Time



OPERATION SMILE PHILIPPINES: Giving the Gift of Smile One Child at a Time

Do you happen to know anyone with BINGOT or NGONGO from this places: 
  • Cavite
  • Batangas
  • Mindoro 
  • Laguna
Help them get the chance to have a FREE reconstructive surgery through Operation Smile Philippines. 

Please text the following to 0905-558-0206:
  •  Patient's name
  •  Age
  •  Birthday 
  •  Complete Address 
Registration are ongoing in DLSU Medical Center in Dasmarinas, Cavite. 

Kindly Repost this on your social networks, so we can help more people. God bless your heart,


Wednesday, August 22, 2012

JESSE ROBREDO: Funeral Arrangements and Burial of Sec. Robredo


Bulletin No. 1 (Aug. 21) on Funeral Arrangements and Burial of Sec. Robredo

I. Schedule of public viewing of the remains of Secretary Robredo in Naga City

As Secretary of Communications Ramon A. Carandang announced in Naga City today, the following is the schedule for the public viewing of the remains of the late Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, Jesse M. Robredo:

August 21, 2012, Tuesday
11:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. – The remains of Secretary Robredo will be moved from Funeraria Imperial to the Archbishop’s Palace, Naga City, at around 11 p.m.

August 22, 2012, Wednesday
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. – Mass
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – wake
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Mass
6:00 p.m. onwards – wake

August 23, 2012, Thursday
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. – Mass
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – wake
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Mass
6:00 p.m. onwards – wake

August 24, 2012, Friday
9:00 a.m. – Remains to be transported from Naga City to Malacañan Palace.

*Note: The wake is open to the public

II. Masses to be held in Metro Manila

The following is the tentative schedule of Masses to be held in honor of Secretary Robredo:

Philippine National Police Chapel, Camp Crame
6:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., and 5:15 p.m., daily

National Police Commission Office, Makati
9:00 a.m., Wednesday

Department of the Interior and Local Government Central Office
8:00 a.m., Wednesday
12:00 nn, Thursday to Friday
Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Offices
Starts tomorrow morning; exact schedules to be published tomorrow

III. National Flags will be flown at half-mast for six days starting tomorrow (Aug. 22)

In accordance with law, the President signed Proclamation No. 460, s. 2012, today, commencing the Days of National Mourning that will continue until the date of Secretary Robredo’s interment.

The proclamation also states that “for a period of six (6) days, the national flag shall be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset in all government buildings and installations in the Philippines and in our posts abroad.”

Today, the City of Naga, Malacañan Palace, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, its attached agencies, and the Philippine National Police have lowered the national flag to half-mast.

However, in accordance with law, the six days that the national flag will be flown at half-mast nationwide begins tomorrow, August 22, 2012, as the proclamation was signed after sunset of August 21, 2012. All government offices are enjoined to comply. — Committee on Funeral Arrangements, Malacañang


EXCLUSIVE UNDERWATER VIDEO OF THE ILL-FATED PIPER SENECA PLANE


EXCLUSIVE UNDERWATER VIDEO OF THE ILL-FATED PIPER SENECA PLANE



Video: Gma7


Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Jesse Robredo is Now Back Home in Naga


Secretary Jesse Robredo is Now Back Home in Naga.

We fondly call him Mayor Jess. He will be forever be our Mayor Jess. The Honest, most accessible person, humble and kind. Always smiling, always in purontong shorts and slippers.

Yes, before Robredo became chief of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), he was mayor of Naga City.

When he was the mayor, Naga city was free of “jueteng,” ( illegal numbers game).During his term as mayor bars, nightclubs and prostitution joints were not allowed to operate in the city, prompting ribbings from some of his kumpare that he was a “killjoy.”

He made Naga City a " Maogmang Lugar". He is our hero. An exemplary good public servant.


Robredo is a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay award, Asia’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize.

Mayor Jess Robredo is also a Dangal ng Bayan awardee. Dangal ng Bayan is the highest award the government gives to government officials or employees for exemplary public service.

He is also a TOYM awardee.

Among all the Cabinet members, Robredo is the most accessible. He always returns calls, pm, fb message and is always available for interviews with the media.

He also immediately acts on complaints from the public. He is one the finest servant-leaders. A life well lived and a job well done. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We share their loss and grief.

Robredo’s body has been placed in a metal coffin and television reports said that it will be brought to the Archbishop’s Palace where a public viewing is expected to start at 5 p.m.


Photo from Rappler


VIDEO: HON. JESSE ROBREDO'S BODY WAS RECOVERED


Mar Roxas: Nakausap na ng pangulo ang asawa ni Jess. Aquino was very quiet, sought absolute confirmation. Nung kumpirmado na, he wanted to make sure may malapit kay Ma'am Leni.

Source: Ancalerts


VIDEO OF MAR ROXAS: Sec. Jesse Robredo's Body was Found


"May malungkot tayong balita. At 7:25 this morning, 'yung volunteer divers natin nakita ang fuselage. May mga katawan sa loob pero 'di nila talaga ma-identify. Nung nakalapit sila at about 7:45 am, may mga indications na isa doon sa mga katawan sa loob ng fuselage ay kay Sec Robredo. At that was at about 7:45 (am)," Transport Secretary Mar Roxas said in a press briefing shortly after 9 a.m. Tuesday in Masbate City. 


Robredo, Bahinting, and Chand went missing after their Piper Seneca plane plunged into the waters off Masbate City, just a few hundred meters short of the Moises Espinosa Airport in the city.

A fourth passenger, Jun Abrasado, Robredo's aide-de-camp, survived the crash. He was rescued by local fishermen moments after the crash.

The plane, coming from Cebu's Mactan International Airport, was on its way to Naga City when it encountered engine trouble.

The plane was attempting an emergency landing when it crashed into the waters of Masbate Pass, between Masbate and Ticao islands.

The DILG chief was on his way home to Naga for the long weekend.


Matt Reed, a volunteer British technical diver, was the one who saw Robredo's body underwater, said Roxas.



Robredo's body was found in the cabin of the plane; he was the first to be receovered and brought to land. At least one other body was seen in the cockpit area, Roxas added.

Robredo's body was immediately brought to a coast guard vessel. As of posting at 10 am, the body is now at Las Internas funeral parlor in Masbate.

Aquino, who is back in Manila, personally relayed the news to Robredo's widow Atty Leni Gerona-Robredo via a phone call at around 8:20 am, Roxas said.


Roxas told Sarah Bahinting, daughter of pilot Jesse Bahinting, who is also in Masbate: "I'm sorry for your loss."

They are seeking the help of the Army and Police forensics in handling the late secretary's remains, he added.

The plane's fuselage was found 800m offshore, at a depth of 180 ft, Roxas told reporters.


Souce: Rappler


Jesse Robredo’s Body Recovered


Jesse Robredo’s body was found by Matt Reed, a volunteer British technical diver. He was the one who saw Robredo's body underwater said Roxas. The technical divers found the fuselage of the missing Piper Seneca plane 800 meters from the shore at a depth of 180 feet at 7:45 a.m an emotional Sec. Mar Roxas broke the “sad news” at a briefing at 9:15 a.m.
The divers were able to get near the fuselage and spotted three bodies, including that of Robredo and the two missing pilots Jessup Bahinting and Nepali Kshitiz Chand.

Mar Roxas said that the body of Robredo was surfaced by the divers at around 8:40 a.m. and it was immediately placed in a body bag and transported to a waiting ship of the Philippine Coast Guard. 
It is now on its way to Naga City, Roxas said. 

"Ongoing pa rin ang operation for the other bodies in the fuselage," Roxas announced.


They said that recovery was difficult as the fuselage had overturned but operations continued to retrieve the bodies of the two pilots who were found inside the Piper Seneca plane. 

“Nakasubsob ‘yung dalawang piloto sa loob ng cockpit kaya si Sec. Jesse ang unang nakuha ng diver (The two pilots were inside the cockpit that’s why they recovered Sec. Jesse’s body first),” said Roxas.
Photos from Jeff Canoy's Twitter account

President Benigno Aquino III has been told about the development and has personally informed the DILG chief’s wife, lawyer Leni Robredo.


“The President has already called Mrs. Leni,” said Roxas.

Our condolences to Hon. Jesse Robredo's wife Atty. Leni Gerona-Robredo and to his three children as well as to his parents, 3 sisters and 1 brother.

Source: Mar Roxas


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