GRATITUDE BOX 2013: SUPER SHELL

There are very select few people in Shell that have stuck with me and stayed ever so close despite the difficulties in 2013. I thank you for staying as my friends and making me feel so loved despite the challenges.

Gen, Ben, Fred, Lala, Soc, Fay, Reyn, Kat, Tintin, Julie, Joey, thanks to all of you. You have all been there specially during the most difficult times of my 2013. It was so nice to know that you never left me and instead stayed strong for me and made me realize how lucky I was with true friends like you.

For the upcoming 2014, may God continue to bless all of you and your family. 

GRATITUDE BOX 2013: KUYAS

Our family isn't complete without you, Kuya Ryan. It is indeed a blessing to have you as my kuya. Always love my ate and my pamangkins. Thanks for everything specially for taking care of me when I was sick and when I was down. I will never forget such kindness from you. Always take care there kuya and happy holidays.

Kuya Roy, Happy Holidays and may you have continuous blessings for you and your family. Keep the love alive with ate and ineng. Thanks.

GRATITUDE BOX 2013: THE BEST NIECES AND NEPHEWS

My family is not complete without the best nieces and nephews ever. Though hard-headed at times, these kids really have shown growth and I am sure they will grow up as very good individuals. Too bad, I lost my very young niece at a tender age (Gwyneth), we will still remember you from the bottom of our hearts.

Raisa, being the eldest of my pamangkins, you have surely grown to such a beautiful lady. Remember to always stay nice and remain as pretty as always. You will soon enter into a new chapter in your life as you go into college. Good luck and you know that our love will always be with you.

Gab, such a handsome young lad you have become and it is a wonder to watch you continuously grow. Be good and stay out of trouble. Any time you need me, I'll always be there for you. Utoy, study well and continue your greatness in sports.

Kat, so demure yet so intelligent. You are indeed one beautiful and bright young girl. Keep the love inside your heart and you will never fail. Ineng, stay happy and remember as always that we are right here for you despite your distance.

Gian, you may be the naughtiest of them all but deep inside I can feel your super sweetness. Make sure you stay courteous and nice and study well. Dream big and I know in the future you will develop into a fine lad. Enjoy being a child keep the love of your parents within you.

Gwyneth, I love you Ineng. Wherever you may be, I will always remember you. Bantayan mo tito jec ha. :)

GRATITUDE BOX 2013: MY LOVELY SISTERS

Ate Rose and Ate Mel, I would have not made it this far without you two. 2013 saw me almost crumble from the difficulties and painstaking circumstances but you were both there to support me and egg to move on. Here's to a better 2014 ahead of us.

Ate Rose, you have been through tough situations this year as well but I admire your strength and will to continue. I know what I have experienced in 2013 is uncomparable to what you have gone through this year. Still, you remain as strong and determined. It is a sad day that someone close to your heart has to leave you in the person of a lovely daughter as Gwyneth but as the year comes to a close, more and more blessings come abound at your doorsteps which only proves how wonderful a person you are. Always remain as good as you are and I know things would only get better. My most sincere of love and gratitude, Ate Rose.

Ate Mel, 2013 is also a challenge to you but like all of us we hanged on. Tough challenges have rocked your world and our entire family but you have always stayed strong. We may be a bit far from each other now but deep in our hearts we remain as brothers. Tears may have fallen but I know in the end, God has some great things planned for you - for all of us. I love you Ate Mel and thanks a lot.

GRATITUDE BOX 2013: MY LOVING PARENTS

2013 was a challenging year for me but I would have not made it past through the year without my loving parents. Though it's already my dad's 3rd year to be without us these holidays, my mom remains to be there as my cornerstone providing strength to me in times I need it the most.

Nanay, I love you so dearly. Time and time again, you have proven that I am so much loved. Your overpowering emotions of love and care has carried me through the difficult times. Forever it will be etched in my heart that I would have not braved through the storms if not for the guidance and assistance you constantly provide. I so love you nanay.

Tatay, wherever you may be, I know you were always there everyday of my life. The idea of having you by my side has kept my head aloft despite being stuck in a drowning situation. I love you tatay and I miss you so much. I know you are extremely happy wherever you may be.

13 THINGS TO LEAVE IN 2013

2013 was a rough year and I have 13 things I am leaving behind for the year that was.

1. Bad Health - you've dragged me long enough so i'm leaving you behind
2. That Special Someone - it has been long years with you till you decided to let go
3. Empty Wallet - wishing for better finances in 2014
4. Blank Planner - time to plan for new things, bigger and better ones
5. Bad Karma - let God do the rest
6. Empty Soul - have a renewed relationship with God
7. Untrue friends - nice to know you but time to move on
8. Enemies - leave the bad vibes behind
9. Tired heart - time for a fresh start, may it be with someone else or staying single
10. Tears - time to dry up the eyes and look for happier days
11. Worn Feet - need to re-energize and be back on track
12. Bad habits - stay away from the bad, look for the good
13. Old me - stronger, better, revived and renewed ME

The road towards 2014 is clear. I shall resume my journey and once again live my life.

10,000 HOURS TAKE MAJORITY OF AWARDS IN MMFF

The Joyce Bernal film "10,000 Hours" starring Robin Padilla swept the majority of awards in the recently concluded 2013 Metro Manila Film Festival. The action film won "Best Picture" and Best Director for Bernal  as well as Best Actor for Padilla. In total, the movie grabbed 14 awards which was way above all the other entries in this year's edition.

2nd Best Picture went to Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy which also got the Best Actress trophy for Maricel Soriano. 3rd Best Picture went to My Little Bossings which also won the Best Child Performer Award for Ryza Mae Dizon and Best Supporting Actress for Aiza Seguerra.

MY 2013 IN A GLANCE

No words could actually express how whirlwind of a year it was in 2013. Time was just so fast that I never got to feel this year - not a single bit. It was a challenging and oftentimes heartbreaking year for me as I suffered from one blow to the other. Things were just as chaotic and melancholic as it can be. But the year will come to a close with me feeling more determined and much happier - looking forward for the new year ahead. Before I move to my 2014, let me do a recap of what has happened in 2013 in my life. A bittersweet year yet a year where I have learned a lot.

January started on a bitter note as I was hospitalized straight ahead and has to stay in Makati Med for more than a week. 7 liters of water was taken out of my lungs and it was one of the painful events in my existence. Trying as I thought I could not make it. If only I was a tad late in going to the hospital, I could have not made it past this year. God is still good.

February saw the celebration of my mom's birthday. We did it in a simple way as I was still on my road to recovery and was still weak after the tragic event in January. Look at how thin I was.

March saw my return to the office thinking that I'm already okay. I was happy to have my return to work and was raring to prove myself once more. It was one of the best days ever. Work once more but I never thought it would last for just a few months - April, May, June and then it suddenly stopped once more...

My whole world crashed anew as I got hospitalized for the second time at the end of June and beginning of August. Another near-death experience for me as I struggled once more and had to dig deep within myself to actually survive. I lost friends, I lost chances/opportunities at work, people deserted me, I was left with almost nothing in me. Only my true friends and my family were there to guide me and make me strong.

August, September and October saw me at home in Batangas - bed rest trying desperately to recover. Time has been lost but my will to be better stayed. I still have that belief that some day things would only get better. By the end of October I am ready once more to face the world once more.

November saw me back in the office. Finances aside, I was better. I have realized how lucky I was with my family and with my true friends. Some of the people who I thought are true have left which marked a new start for my life - fresh beginnings. This time, I am focusing more on myself and the people who stayed by me.

By the end of November, I have launched my fb page on my photography - JA Photography. Of course not all were impressed but I was more than thankful to those who believed and have continued believing. This will be a long journey for sure and I am ready for this new development on my life.

This also marks the first time I am celebrating both Christmas and New Year in Batangas. I am so happy to spend it with my family and this is truly a very wonderful time. 2013 was difficult but towards its end it is turning out to be a very good one - just in time for a very meaningful 2014.

ANDERSON SILVA BREAKS LEG IN UFC REMATCH

The whole world was in disbelief as one of UFC's hottest stars, Anderson Silva agonizes in pain after her broke his leg during a UFC rematch with Chris Weidman. It was one of most horrible scenes ever in mixed martial arts history as people could not do anything as Silva has his left shin bend as he lands  kick to Weidman in the second round of their fight.

The question now hangs as to whether this tragic incident marks the end of Anderson Silva's UFC career. Though already safe and has undergone surgery already, Silva's chances of returning to the ring might be thrown to the air already as his grotesque injury might keep him off the sport for good. Our prayers for Silva.

PHILIPPINES WINS MISS INTERNATIONAL 2013

The Philippines' Bea Rose Santiago made another historical moment in the Philippine pageantry scene as she won the 5th Miss International crown for the country. It was also a wonderful year for us as this is the 3rd beauty title we have capped after Miss Supranational (Mutya Datul) and Miss World (Megan Young). Santiago bested out over 60 other candidates to take the crown held in Japan. Netherlands placed 1st Runner-up while New Zealand is 2nd runner-up.

Bravo Bea! Congratulations!

JASON BALABAL CARRIES RP FLAG AT SEA GAMES

 

Graeco-Roman wrestler Jason Balabal was the country's flag bearer in the current South East Asian Games in Yangon. And he became internet sensation as he wore a traditional Igorot costume as he paraded bearing the national flag. His good looks and hot body made him the buzz of netizens as he strutted his way through the oval. Sad news however as he failed to land a third straight gold in his event and just settled for a silver. Here are more hot pics of Jason. Need we say more?

I AM SO BACK

2013 has been a trying year for me that tested my inner strength to survive. After 2 hospitalizations last January and August, I would love to say that I am back and I am raring to give you more and more posts in the coming days. As I would like to say it, "From the ashes rises the phoenix once more. This time stronger and more determined.

It was really a tough year where I saw my weight shrink to 44 kilos. But I am back and slowly packing up the meat again as I am now back to 56 kilos. Thanks to all those people who constantly helped and never left my side specially during those difficult times - my family, my true friends.

Also, as I close out 2013, I have started my FB page on photography:  JA Photography

I would start my children blogs soon for this new endeavor of photography and also I'm cooking up something on food and travel. Again, to my loyal Bluecloud readers, I miss all of you. I am back.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY NANAY

For 9 months you carried me effortlessly in your womb. 29 years and so you're still trying to carry me with all your might and strength. No exact words could describe you. You're strong, lovely, sweet, superb and whole bunch more. 

But what's most important is "MAHAL NA MAHAL KO KAYO NANAY KO! KAHIT BUHAY KO KAYA KONG IPAGPALIT PARA SA YO!"

Happy Mother's Day!

A LOOK AT SOME OF THE SENATORIABLES

Election fever is up and we are again faced of choosing 12 senatoriables who we wish to make some changes in our country. I will give some of my points on some of the hopefuls for this 2013 elections. At the end of each simple thoughts on each candidate is a YES for a sure vote from me, NO for definitely not and MAYBE if I might possibly still include in my list.


Angara, Sonny
- I would have to say that for me he is very likeable candidate, although his image is not as relatable to the masses as the others. I like that he focuses only on few items to really trigger if he gets elected and that is education. YES

Aquino, Bam
- For me, I think his plans for the Senate are a bit too dreamy but hey he's a newbie so I say let him be. Although I am not particularly liking him by much, his aspirations and youthful energy might just infuse a different vibe into the Senate which is currently becoming a bit too old already. YES

Binay, Nancy
- Before I liked her honesty in saying that a big part of her popularity is her last name attributed to her father. But after seeing her defend herself in almost all tirades against her, I was like, is this for real, is she running for senator???? Simply put it, NO

Cayetano, Peter
- His plans and platforms from the last time he ran for Senate remained. What does that mean? Nothing changed? The answer is no, there were some changes but not really noticeable ones. I'd rather have those small changes for good than no changes at all. YES

Cojuangco, Tingting
- My first reaction was okay but where will this take us? I did not see any concrete plans. She would be a fresh blood at the Senate but I doubt her motives of entering such. MAYBE

Estrada, JV
- I like the way Estrada and the rest of his clan has been performing on any level of governance. It might just be a sad thing that their father has had a tarnish on his record but I see him as one with will and confidence. I believe he will do what is necessary when placed in the Senate. YES

Enrile, Jack
- He is a bit more likeable than his father but from what I see his father has something more in him. I do not see him as someone that could last the rigors of the Senate world. Plus his lousy TV ad campaign just makes me a bit off. MAYBE

Escudero, Chiz
- Has been one of the usual frontrunners in the senatorial races. But his recent flops (most recent ones I could remember about are the Cybercrime Law clause on libel and his involvement with star Heart Evangelista). He used to be in my top list but now maybe just fillers. YES

Gordon, Dick
- Has a good track on Governance but his alliance is something I am quite unsure of. He has made some tremendous jobs while in local government and even when he served as Senator. Small yet very charismatic guy but his luster may have faded through the years. MAYBE

Hagedorn, Ed
- I liked what happened in Palawan during his term but what I do not specifically admire is his sometimes stubborn attitude and his over-the-top way of thinking. Although, that may help the Senate, I like something a bit safer. MAYBE

Hontiveros, Risa
- She really has very good academic and political credentials and is one of the tops in terms of that area. But she lacks a bit of charisma that regular masses look forward but that could be developed. Hope voters could see what she could do. YES

Legarda, Loren
- Ever since her love-hate relationship with Batanguenos thanks largely to her husband, I disliked her attitude and demeanor. Her loyalty is something also questionable to me. Her plans and what she has done while in  Senate are of course unquestionable as she done quite a lot but I guess it's time to have room for new blood. NO

Maceda, Ernie
- All I could say is I need fresh blood. Well, in the Philippines that means son, cousin etc... But I think he has served his best. NO

Madrigal, Jamby
- I still remember her debut in Senate when she was endorsed by one of the hottest showbiz properties Judy Ann Santos. And who could forget her caps, baller IDs, fans and other small items as giveaways. She was given a chance at the Senate and did well but is well good enough? Maybe not this time around. NO

Magsaysay, Mitos
- I don't have anything to say about her as I don't know much about her. That being said. NO

Magsaysay, Jun
- He has done quite a lot already in his Senate journey and I guess it's time for him to rest and enjoy and see what he has done. He can still help without being in Senate but if really need to fill those slots he might just be one of those first ones. MAYBE

Pimentel, Koko
- Koko Pimentel has showed that he really fights for the right and for justice as he waited to be seated rightfully on the 12th slot on the last elections. Now he's back and raring he can perform well on a full term. I believe his ideals. YES

Poe, Grace
- Grace may be riding on the popularity of FPJ's name but i believe on his basic credentials and that he wants to continue the legacy of his father and what his father really wants, So sad that his political ads are somehow comedic than realistic. YES

Trillanes IV, Antonio
- Firm, strong and very confident. Trillanes may have served a different route on the way to Senate but he has shown some grit and responsibility along the way. With what he has done from before, I'm just a bit concerned. MAYBE

Villanueva, Eddie
- Former presidential candidate Brother Eddie hasn't lost hope on landing a good post in the Nationals but I do not see him doing that well. NO

Villar, Cynthia
- She may be often referred to as Manny Villar's wife but she done quite well in public service as well and has pioneered some good projects on her own. She is one that could make a fresh thinking on making jobs in the Senate, something we usually rely on international investors lately. YES

Zubiri, Migs
- Save for the good looks, he has done a good job in his local governance in the province and continued that in his Senate days. His name may have been constantly dragged into several controversies but he remains one of the better bets for a Senate seat but for this time I am a bit unsure. MAYBE

HELLO

People might be asking why I haven't posted since December and aside from busy work that time my 2013 started on a very sad note. I have been hospitalized due to pleural effusion secondary to pneumonic symptoms. A total of almost 7 liters of water was taken out of my lungs and now I am on a one-month rest period. Difficult but still I am thankful I am given another chance to live.