view thru my eyes

now sleeping.. CATS!

2010-07-24T19:47:00.002+08:00

just found them napping in front of my door when i got home.

road tunnel

2010-07-13T21:44:00.003+08:00

One stunt that I always wanted to do was to stop and shoot in the middle of the road.

And I put out my camera to shoot this road tunnel in Quezon City which was empty except for me passing by.

2009 in review : location shoot

2010-01-03T06:55:00.001+08:00

Another assignment for PEP.ph. It's a location shoot of the show "Stairway to Heaven" at one of the malls in Quezon City.

They were quick in doing their scenes but emotions can be felt already with every scene that they shoot.

2009 in review : celebrity basketball

2010-01-02T18:13:00.001+08:00

Another event shoot for PEP.ph.

Brought me back to my high school days when I covered the basketball games for the school. We used film then and not the digital camera that I now have. Much easier to shoot though with digital.

2009 in review: party

2009-12-31T23:35:00.003+08:00

I shot this for PEP.ph last February.

It was a great night to be a part of. I was an "outsider" allowed to shoot and talk with the celebrities.

2009 in review : cityscapes

2009-12-30T23:24:00.003+08:00

Some photos from my Hong Kong trip last July. It was my first out of the country trip.

2009 in review: wedding

2009-12-29T01:01:00.003+08:00

I like to shoot some of my classmates and friend's wedding. This also serves as my wedding gift to them, a belated gift at that.

This one was of my high school classmate, the groom, who got married last May. And I still owe them an album of the photos that I took.

This is My Ball!!

2009-09-15T22:02:00.001+08:00

The basketball slips past the hands of Archie Alemania as he is closely guarded by Carlos Morales at the Pharmaton Celebrity Basketball League held at the Music Hall of the SM Mall of Asia last September 14.

For more photos, click here.

Mock necrological service for National Artist Awards

2009-08-26T18:47:00.003+08:00

Shooting again for PEP.ph

Here is the link.

vigan

2009-05-13T09:33:00.003+08:00

here are snapshots of Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

it's the street that is off-limits to motorized vehicle.

one regret i had was being unable to shoot it at night.

colors of summer

2009-04-16T11:16:00.002+08:00

something pretty..

ilocos sunset

2009-04-05T08:53:00.002+08:00

I recently went to Candon, Ilocos Sur for a business and pleasure trip.

Our group was billeted to a beach resort and knowing that we were on the western portion of the Philippines, I knew that the sunset would be beautiful.

And I wasn't dissapointed.

nature trippin'

2009-03-28T16:28:00.000+08:00

a brown cow..

bow..

withered tree

2009-03-20T16:40:00.002+08:00

something I saw in a valley in Laguna..

very reminiscent of the movie, "Big Fish"..

hanging out at McDonald's

2008-12-04T23:58:00.000+08:00

Workers replace and clean the famous arch of this worldwide fastfood chain at Rosales, Pangasinan.

Saturday morning at Marikina City

2008-11-01T16:48:00.002+08:00

if you're a night owl like me, it was struggle shooting this 'coz i had to wake up early.

but walking around Marikina City that Saturday morning really awoke me again to he beauty of the early morning sunrise.

* * * * *

photo was used for Newsbreak Magazine when it featured Marikina as one of competitive cities of the country. Marikina continues to to rank on top after all these years.

lights and smoke..

2008-10-31T08:31:00.001+08:00

ang hilig mag-smoke machine ng mga sounds & light system..

ayan tuloy ang nakuhahan ko..

getting to my destination

2008-10-11T03:15:00.002+08:00

driving home to Nueva Ecija means i can't have my trusty camera by my side because it is packed at the back of the car.

so, it was time to put out my cellphone camera to good use..

Manila on a rainy morning

2008-09-12T07:27:00.002+08:00

view of Manila landscape from the harbor of the Manila Yacht Club..

it's planting season once again

2008-07-28T00:29:00.001+08:00

a road side view of farmers in Nueva Ecija...

Play (of light) on Maja

2008-05-28T21:20:00.001+08:00

It was the launching of Maja Salvador as it's newest endorser for the clothing company Folded & Hung. This was one shot the publication didn't use.

road trip

2008-03-01T03:45:00.003+08:00

i never thought i would use a camera phone to shoot photos but with my SLR in the repair shop, i couldn't resist taking these two scenes.

this part of my road trip around nueva ecija.

orchids in the garden

2008-01-24T09:25:00.000+08:00

i know, it's been a while since i posted something here. i took a a hiatus because of a shift back to writing but i never lost touch with shooting and using my camera.

i shot this with a new lens i bought last November.

i had a grand time shooting with the new lens - be it people, things or objects.

for this matter, i took shots of the orchids in the garden of my grandparents' house.

* * *

i'l probably be able to post more photos of shots i did for Summit Media as the exclusivity of some of photos to the company has lapsed already.

hallway

2007-08-22T00:25:00.000+08:00

blurred view

2007-07-21T00:14:00.000+08:00

yep...

that's a blurred view...

catch this tv show's third anniversary interview this sunday morning, if that's the scheduled airing of this interview...

by the sea

2007-07-20T23:30:00.000+08:00

one of the most difficult thing for a photographer is to be comfortable on the other side of the camera and shoot yourself.

the sea side provided me ample inspiration to do this shoot.

and, a good sense of how long 10 seconds will last so i could sit myself on the rock.

kinakalawang

2007-07-19T20:13:00.000+08:00

sunset at the cove

2007-06-27T10:30:00.000+08:00

finally went to a beach after the busy summer months of April and May...

here's a great shot I caught...

black in blue

2007-05-04T12:23:00.000+08:00

Norman Black, long-time Philippine resident, and noted PBA import and celebrated coach donned the Ateneo jersey. He played Center for a team at the Alumni Basketball League of Ateneo. Sandy Arespacochaga, his assistant for the Men's team in the UAAP, took the role as player-coach of the team.

caught in national tv

2007-05-04T00:31:00.000+08:00

my friends, relatives and some of our dance students caught me while this was being broadcast. i had about 5 text messages about the news segment...

check the link...

http://www.pep.ph/videos/483/Famous-siblings-Ruffa-and-Richard-talk-about-campaigning-for-political-candidates

box office gallery

2007-04-29T00:36:00.000+08:00

the Philippine entertainment scene...

check out the link to the photos of Box Office Awards that happened this week...

http://www.pep.ph/photos/368/Box_Office_fashion_at_the_Box_Office%21

more from Dinagyang

2007-02-03T01:21:00.000+08:00

Here are a few more photos from Dinagyang.

out of Luzon

2007-01-29T11:46:00.000+08:00

This is my first trip out of Luzon.

Am still here in Iloilo. Nearing a week of stay here going around the city and exploring the streets.

Just sent my photos to news outlets. I had a terrible time yesterday as Internet service caused a headache. It's not that they are way behind here but the service provider I am using was terrible yesterday.

Photos on top were from last Friday. Ilonggos have a dedicated passion for Sto Nino, especially at this time of the year when the child Jesus is adored.

I'll try to post some more photos here when I get back to Metro Manila. I will be exploring other parts of the island in the last two days.

a long walk

2007-01-14T09:37:00.000+08:00

no photos...

just a link...

http://www.pep.ph/gallery/175/

* * * * *

This was a good shoot for me. I practically walked and hitched from the Quezon City Circle where this started. I was exhausted when I reached Aliw Theater in Makati City.

I hadn't had a shoot for the past three weeks. And the walk did me some good.

I'm thankful for PEP for getting the photos.

chasing fire(works)

2007-01-06T02:10:00.000+08:00

a Happy New Year to everyone...

I finally got to shoot a New Year fireworks spectacle. I situated myself at Makati City that night. My brother from the US was tagging along with me.

I had planned to shoot the fireworks from a flyover along Edsa so I could capture the skyline as well. But the location of the fireworks was not desirable, so the option for most photographers that night was to shoot somewhere else (namely, in Manila).

I stood my ground by staying in Makati.

It was relatively a nice shoot. The fireworks was announced to last for 20 minutes.

The thing about not shooting for the past week though was that I failed to check on my equipment, particularly the batteries.

So, as the fireworks was about to end, my camera's battery emptied out on me.I had transferred to another street and I had left my spare battery in the car which was about a 150 meters away from me.

I had 30 seconds to run back to the car. And that 30 seconds turned out to be the last 30 seconds of the fireworks display.

and the stars went out

2006-12-29T08:59:00.000+08:00

The Metro Manila Film Festival Parade last Sunday brought everyone out on the streets of Quezon City, Manila and Pasay.

It was a festive mood for the people to see all these movie stars encouraging everyone to watch their respective movies.

Cellphones and digital cameras were pulled out and aimed at the floats.

Katrina Halili still never ceases to amaze the crowd with her beauty. Her calendar was a favorite giveaway item.

Angel Locsin was a crowd-getter as she shook hands with almost everyone. There were three bodyguards forced to restrain the maddening crowd.

This show of support by the people hopefully translates to a good box office return for every film.

2006 is saying goodbye with fire

2006-12-28T14:46:00.000+08:00

Fire greeted this supermarket near my place of residence.

My brother awoke me of the incident happening as he was arriving home from a late night with friends.

I had just been in the establishment the day before looking for a good can opener.

Now the place has been gutted.

It is now a statistic to the many blaze happening the past few days.

and everything gets packed

2006-12-21T09:38:00.000+08:00

Traffic in Metro Manila grinds to slow motion as shoppers flock to the malls and bazaars...

fast and furious

2006-12-09T01:35:00.000+08:00

last october, i took my free sunday to shoot a basketball game.

(my sunday is usually reserved for going to the province and looking after the family business.)

it's been a while since i shot a basketball game. it was in high school when i last shot a basketball game. but the last time i shot a sporting event was at the SEA Games.

the game was at the collegiate champions league tournament. UE was facing San Beda. it was a close game. San Beda playing its half-court offense & defense well in the first hald. UE then turned up its running game and pressure defense to chalk up the win.

take a tea

2006-12-05T18:08:00.000+08:00

A camera trick I was trying out while waiting to start my shoot in the lobby of a hotel.

dark sunset

2006-12-05T17:58:00.000+08:00

I was driving to an occasion when I got stopped in front of the traffic intersection.

The sun was really setting fast.

I shot four frames.

The last one gave me this one.

sightseeing antipolo city

2006-10-25T00:03:00.000+08:00

Hinulugang Taktak, one of the famous landmarks of Antipolo City.

Though it looks pristine here, a foul smell emanates from the falls due to the environmental degradation. My friends and didn't stay that long at the place and just went about shooting the surroundings.

shooter in congress

2006-10-17T19:57:00.000+08:00

it seems that Rep Roilo Golez is bitten by the (digital)photo bug...

while a committee hearing was ongoing, he took the opportunity to take photos of his fellow congressmen. it's a good habit to be doing, instead of dozing off which other congressmen usually do.

a little older, still naugthier

2006-10-15T00:41:00.000+08:00

allow me to be self-indulgent...

it's a good oppurtunity to see a couple of the friends you meet in college, get-together, eat and catch up with experiences in work and in relationships...

and capturing them on this opportunity is a happy moment...

intramuros on a day off

2006-10-15T00:27:00.000+08:00

taking a walk along the streets of Intramuros is an exciting journey. what made it a pleasant path at night was the lack of people idly walking on a Saturday night.

of course no trip in Intramuros is complete, if you don't stop by at the Manila Cathedral.

an orange...

2006-09-24T14:33:00.000+08:00

flower shot...

just one of the remaining orange flower...

the others already wilted...

i hope this one hasn't wilted yet...

naughty, naughty

2006-09-24T14:28:00.000+08:00

Two round objects...

Two round objects besides each other...

Guess what fruit this is...

Clue: it's big and sour...

those little things

2006-09-23T00:30:00.000+08:00

Finally had the chance to take some nature shots...

I went home to my grandmother's farm and spent the night there. Weird September weather last weekend. The heat was quite unbearable as I was forced to wake up twice in the middle of the night. I needed two glasses of water to freshen me up.

I'll post some more nature shots later this weekend.

I've only had my internet connection today at home and I had to subscribe to a new provider.

a new circle

2006-08-31T12:08:00.000+08:00

One of the landmarks when you go out at night in Manila is the Remedios Circle.

It has indeed received a facelift.

No more vehicles parking on the rotunda itself.

And the walk in Malate is more enjoyable.

showcase of new dance works

2006-08-30T13:29:00.000+08:00

WiFi Body: Philippine Independent Contemporary Dance Festival was showcased last August 17 to 20 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It was a chance for many in the dance (ballet) world to see experimentations by seasoned and new choreographers.

The festival was spearheaded by Myra Beltran and Paul Morales, with several dance groups like Chameleon Dance Company, Airdance and UP Dance Company performing.

when the city sleeps

2006-08-04T23:31:00.000+08:00

The contruction sector here in the Philippines is on a boom again.

With the influx of funds coming from OFWs and Balikbayans opting to stay here, buying a condominium is ang 'it' thing.

Even at night, the construction of new high rise residences doesn't slow down.

I just hope this doesn't burst yet again.

moisture (un)control(led)

2006-07-28T01:56:00.000+08:00

A couple of problems arise when you are covering an event and it is raining, just like last Monday.

You're careful not to get your precious camera wet. A digital camera can never be exposed to wet conditions. I used a 'ziploc' bag to cover the body of my camera.

Another is moisture getting into your lens. Take note of the photo above. I just had to live with it.

A rally is prone to unpredictability. So, I was careful with my things. Another photographer was unfortunate to have lost his wallet in a scuffle.

And it all boils down to taking of your own body. You wouldn't want to get sick after getting wet. Just look at our president being rushed to the hospital this evening because of a flu.

Meanwhile, I live to shoot another day.

bay watchers

2006-07-21T00:45:00.000+08:00

SM Mall of Asia's Bay Boulevard is the one of the attractions of the new mall. It is said to be the biggest here in the country.

A couple of unsolicited advice before going there...

Wear rubber shoes. With more than a thousand square meters to cover, your feet will be aching in two hours.

Don't make the mistake of going to the mall on a weekend, especially on Sundays, when people fill the whole complex to the brim. Try going there on a weekday.

grown-up Angelica

2006-07-08T20:32:00.000+08:00

She's no angel no more.

No more teenybopper photos.

She's grabbing the attention of people, especially drivers.

It's a pity that Makati City did not allow the exhibition of the MAXIM billboard. It really won't cause a traffic.

Just take a look the billboard along near the Katipunan flyover (in front of Ateneo).

he's not Ryan Seacrest

2006-07-07T13:27:00.000+08:00

He's Ryan Agoncillo.

And he will be hosting the Philippine Idol which starts telecast on July 29 on ABC 5.

holy carabao!

2006-07-07T13:18:00.000+08:00

These carabaos are a good ride along the Marikina Riverbanks on a Saturday morning. That is if you can really find a live white carabao.

Check out the article about Marikina, and why it continues to be one the competitive cities in the country.

caught them smiling

2006-07-05T21:12:00.000+08:00

The funny thing about looking like a foreigner - I've been asked if I was Chinese or Korean or Japanese (never a Filipino) - and lugging along a camera after a shoot is that you get great smiles from people you would not expect it from.

Take the photo above as an example.

I also had a big smile as I walked away.

here comes superman

2006-06-27T00:57:00.000+08:00

The Man of Steel will hit the big screen this Wednesday. And, everyone is agog about the movie. The IMAX theater at the Mall of Asia is getting booked for the its first week of screening. Even the toy convention I went to a couple of weeks back has Superman plastered all over.

Hopefully, Bryan Singer made a good movie that fits in to the movie mythology of the first four Superman movies. I practically worship the guy for his good film work. When I watched the Usual Suspects (with Kevin Spacey) some years back, it practically got me addicted to his future works. Plus, his television show (which he produces), House MD is an quite an addiction even on re-runs.

I just hope I can get to catch this a movie 'coz I havn't been to a movie theater the past 6 weeks.

I almost auditioned

2006-06-15T14:02:00.000+08:00

The Magazine will be coming out with a special on Philippine Idol. It will hit magazine stands on Monday. Watch out for it. I'll give the links next week to the stories.

No. I did not audition. I don't have the guts to sing in a public arena. Only when I'm alone driving out of town. Maybe I should try next year.

high above

2006-06-06T20:08:00.000+08:00

The Metro Manila skyline from Makati, where you should (not) be able to see that the buildings from afar is the Ortigas Center.

Urbanization and its beauty.

cindy

2006-05-12T22:31:00.000+08:00

re-post...

people might get and grab this image of cindy...

and, copyright protection for me, especially if the photos are beautiful...

a cup of coffee

2006-05-12T00:28:00.000+08:00

i saw the perfect moment...

click... click...

and then, i forgot to get her name...

FREEdom camp

2006-04-19T22:18:00.000+08:00

freestyle basketball

zipping

freestyle dancing

freestyle soccer

* * * *

People watched and packed the Activity Area of Market! Market! in Taguig last April 2 as LEVI'S showcased an event that featured different activities.

The Freedom Camp featured Freestyle Dancing, Freestyle Soccer, Freestyle Basketball and Free Climbing (it was supposed to have no harness but for safety purposes of those who were trying it there was one) and Zipping.

* * *

This shoot though was for a daily.

And I had good photos from the event. I had to use different ISO settings and lighting was almost always compensated by flash bulb.

This is a shameless plug, but this event tested again my stamina for covering whole day events. Though my three set of batteries all ran out of energey at the end.

Interview with No 4

2006-04-19T21:56:00.000+08:00

The magazine's next issue will feature an exclusive interview with Speaker Joe De Venecia about his views on the Charter Change and its consequences for the country.

And I had the privelege of getting shooting this interview.

And what a pressure it was...

My Chief was texting me to watch out for my photos even before the shoot began.

I spent about 135 shots during the interview and about 20 more after for his stand-up photos.

In the end, I had 39 good shots.

Call this a good batting average.

we've been online

2006-03-27T23:42:00.000+08:00

http://www.newsbreak.com.ph/newsbreak/home.asp

the magazine set-up its own website...

we're still in the "growth stage" so bear with us...

you'll get to see some more of my photos over there...

leaving their fate

2006-03-15T19:13:00.000+08:00

28 Feb 2006

Rep Satur Ocampo talks on the phone as other Representatives discuss what to do on protective custody issue that the 'Batasan 5' is requesting from the House. The five party list representatives were ordered arrested by the President on rebellion charges.

edsa dispersal

2006-02-24T14:04:00.000+08:00

2:14 pm...

I was already at Edsa Shrine this morning at 8 am. It was quite and peaceful. But a group of protesters, led Bayan Sec-Gen Renato Reyes Jr and Rep Teddy Casiño went to the shrine. It was supposed to be peaceful gathering but the president ordered the dispersal of all rallyists.

The police were just following orders, even those who had no dispersal battle gear and helmet.

30 minutes after the President's order came out, a dispersal ensued.

the story continues...

getting their act together?

2006-02-22T19:56:00.000+08:00

You may get confused with the idea of former Vice President Teofisto Guingona sitting beside the son of former President Joseph Estrada, San Juan Mayor JV Ejercito.

I did too.

Here was the guy who started the impeachment trial that eventually led to the ouster of the former president.

Are bygones, bygones?

connecting lives

2006-02-22T19:47:00.000+08:00

A Teleconferencing forum was held at DLSU-Taft last January 23. The forum was participated by students from selected Metro Manila schools and those from Mindanao.

Both exchanged their views about the problems they face here in their area. Those from Metro Manila tell of the danger of the streets of Manila from criminal elements like snatchers and holduppers. Those from Mindanao tell of the danger for their lives due to the clan wars or 'rido' that could eruptat any given time.

Both were positive and upbeat that they were able to share stories. They were also able to talk about misconceptions and stereotypes. They hope to get in touch with them by visiting each other during the summer and discuss more issues that they share in common.

using the cellphone during a committee hearing

2006-01-20T03:10:00.000+08:00

What do you do in a committee hearing that was taking too long for you to speak?

Sleep?

Daydream?

Nah!...

Just text some friends.

That's what Michaelangelo Zuce did.

tears of gratitude

2006-01-20T03:00:00.000+08:00

Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski was on hand at a Gawad Kalinga Summit in Ateneo de Manila last Monday. She, her father and another athlete represented Team Philippines as they were feted for their commendable performance as well as the joy they brought to the country as year 2005 ended.

I was also quite happy with the adulation the other athletes got after the said event. I saw our triple gold medalist Sheila Mae Perez having a photo session with people. She could have gotten blind with so many cellphone and digital 'brownie' cameras being put to her face.

Congratulations once again to our athletes.

the ID

2006-01-20T02:50:00.000+08:00

The United Opposition held a press conference Club Filipino before beginning their meeting to dicuss their moves for 2006.

As the presscon finished, Rep Imee Marcos eyes my Press ID and sights the "Newsbreak" logo and greets me "Newsbreak, pasaway din kayo ah." I did not care to ask or for her to elaborate her greeting to me.

'nuff said from her.

the general's republic

2006-01-20T02:40:00.000+08:00

Heard this from a radio report as I was going to the Senate hearing this morning. I was late (beacuse of the horrendous EDSA traffic) but I still got the photos.

Radio reporter overheard Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile telling this to Ret Gen Fortunato Abat. "Oh, General, what are you doing here? I thought you had your own republic."

'nuff said.

magic act of the year

2006-01-02T18:44:00.000+08:00

Virgilio Garcillano, the former COMELEC commissioner was deemed the magic act of the year by publications and broadcast networks that made their year in review for 2005.

Garcillano crosses paths here with Representative Francis Escudero in the early parts of the Congressional Hearings that continued last December 7 on the wiretapping controversy.

It was Representative Escudero's privilege speech at the House that began this hearing where a monumental number of 5 committees joined together to inquire about this controversy.

hail to our athletes

2006-01-02T18:20:00.000+08:00

The SEA Games last November-December gave me the oppurtunity to flex my muscle on shooting sporting events. The last time I shot a sporting event was during my high school years when we won the championship. And I was using film then.

The Women's Footaball competition was successfully held at Marikina. A great number came to watch the match, especuially with the Philippines playing.

The team had help from some Filipinos who lived abroad and practically had played the game in international setting.

Photo above shows Angeline Impelido scoring a goal here in their match against Myanmar. Her goal tied the match 1-1, but Myanmar prevailed with the score 3-1.

The Women's Football team for the past SEA Games had been throughly outmatched against out SouthEast Asian rivals but they looked competitive and burned with desire especially playing in front of a home crwod.

wedding - a passage of time

2006-01-02T18:09:00.000+08:00

When you see one of your high school classmate getting married, it's a point that everyone's getting older.

action star to filmmaker

2005-11-19T13:04:00.000+08:00

Robin Padilla guested at a Muslim Art exhibit and cultural show at Makati last night.

He had buckled down to working on his documentary-reality film. He brought along the two Australian actresses who would be feautred in it, and a two camera-one sound crew.

They were the center of attraction, to the point the almost everybody in the venue almost lost track that this was an art exhibition tackling Muslim issues. It was a good thing that they deferred to the point of the event ang giving importance to the artists being featured.

Most of the artists are novices to the painting world. Their coordinator explained to me that they drew experience from doing advertising signs because of the need to earn money. They needed at least a 1000 pesos to sustain their daily needs as well as the needs for their artistic endeavor.

A positive sign that this would push through is the promise by the NCCA Chair Cecile Guidote-Alvarez to have the works in exhibit at the NCCA Museum in Intramuros.

As for Robin and the two Australian actresses, I hope they continue to feature good things about the country. You can check up here about Robin's passion for filmmaking.

first shot

2005-11-06T01:38:00.000+08:00

Wohoo!...

I finally got the chance to shoot the President.

After, 9 months of shooting for the magazine, I finally get to see the president and to photograph her in an event.

The occasion was a mass and dinner for the 900 particpating athletes to the SEA Games here in the country starting on the final week of November. All the athletes were agog by her presence. Anyone who had a camera was taking a photo or video, (digicam, cellphone or videocam) during the photo-op with the President.

As a bonus, I also had the lucky stars to get a shot of the First Gentleman. It was a good thing because the First Gentleman is very elusive these days and all the new photos we have of him date back to 2004, maybe even 2002. He arrived late for the event but was acknowledge during the dinner.

women in the front lines

2005-10-21T19:04:00.000+08:00

Policewomen (I don't have an idea if this is politically correct) were used in the battle front of the barricade by police at the Recto that leads to Mendiola where the rallyists had hoped to proceed.

The rally at Morayta corner Recto in Manila was relatively peaceful except for the commotion in the early part of the rally where some Manila Police officers got hurt. There was also an instance when a man was accosted for being suspicious-looking during the program of the rallyists. The participants were very vigilant of anyone entering their ranks. I was even asked and checked for an ID by one of the marshals.

By 4pm, the participants from Central and Southern Luzon dispersed peacefully.

first note

2005-10-17T12:24:00.000+08:00

There's a new jazz place in town.

If you live in the Quezon City area, Kublai's in Katipunan Avenue has started offering to jazz enthusiasts a new venue to go to on Monday nights.

The Phil Jazz Ensemble is the featured band with lead guitarist Aya Yuson (yes! he's the guy holding the guitar), son of writer Krip Yuson. According to them, Krip will be jamming with them together with other friends.

Last week was their debut at Kublai's and they're hoping to get more audience to enjoy their music.

They do a wonderful set of jazz music. The 100 peso cover charge (inclusive of 1 drink) is more than enough to fill your ears that you normally hear on radio or CDs. They started playing at 9pm took a break by 10:30 and played until 12:30am. They could have played all night had the place been filled up.

On a footnote, Aya Yuson will be featured in the magazine when it releases an issue on October 24.

2005-10-14T02:20:00.000+08:00

more photos from the Philippines Fashion Trends 06 held last Tuesday at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel
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2005-10-14T02:18:00.000+08:00

Got that model projection?
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2005-10-14T02:17:00.000+08:00

Hairstyles done by some of the leading salons and hairstylists at the Philippine Fahion Trends 06 at the Isla Ballroom in Edsa Shangri-La Hotel
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uh... uhm...

2005-09-22T21:10:00.000+08:00

He was adamant about saying nothing...

So, it took about National Security adviser Norberto Gonzales nearly three hours to evade the question regarding the Venable LLP contract the he allegedly signed for the Philippine government.

It the end, all that maneuvers he did sent him, to the Senate infirmary first, and then to the Philippine Heart Center.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee wanted to know why but did not get any answer.

Another saga in the Arroyo administration continues...

2005-09-06T16:06:00.000+08:00

At 1:56 am, some Congressman chose to take a quick nap; others were sharing stories; while some were intently listening to the discussion
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2005-09-06T16:05:00.000+08:00

POPCORN ANYONE? Some congressman share popcorn during the session which lasted nearly 24 hours starting Monday, yesterday until this afternon
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2005-09-06T16:01:00.000+08:00

2004 Presidential Candidate Bro Eddie Villanueva looks to former President Corazon Aquino as they chitchat during a suspension at the Planary Hall in Batasan

(cardinal rule broken in taking photos - never take a shot of someone's back unless it tells something)
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The Biggest Reality Show to hit Phiippine Free TV

2005-09-06T10:30:00.000+08:00

Dateline: 10:26 am, Sept 6

The show at Congress began at around 4 pm.

The House session hall was filled to the rafters. Former President Cory Aquino, Susan Roces and 2004 presidential candidate Eddie Villanueva was there at the VIP section.

Everyone was anticipating a good show. Word had leaked out that the House Justice Committee report would be tackled.

But not everyone expected it to be this long.

* * * * *

House session was divided into two parts.

The first part was the Privelege Hour, which was supposed to last for only an hour. However, since this was the time for Representatives to give speeches, this extended to almost five hours.

Second part is the juicier one, albeit was taking a long time. The House Justice Committee report was to be tackled. This started at around 10 pm. It was Justice Committee chair Simeon Datumanong and Vice Chair Marcelino Libanan who presented the report to the plenary.

At 11 pm up until around 3:30 pm, interpellation was between Rep Villafuerte and Rep Escudero & Rep Cayetano of the minority. And then the nominal voting began.

(I left at 2 pm, having had no snack or dinner during the entire ordeal; I monitored the events from live television courtesy of ANC and NBN. I consider other reporters from big organizations as very lucky to have relievers for them.)

As of this time, voting was dragging on with almost each Representative exhausting their 3-minute privelege to speak and explain their votes. This is the reason why this particular session is lasting this long. Imagine 200-plus Representatives going to the mic and talking and yakking.

I wonder if the new 24-hour service of Pinoy Big Brother rated big time against this session at the House.

to the dead fish we flush

2005-09-01T19:13:00.000+08:00

A Sewerage Treatment Facility is hidden in the lot owened by UP beside the Paskong Pasiklab complex along Commonwealth Avenue.

The magazine has an upcoming story on this to be written by Myla Roque. Check it out on September 12.

Photo 1: The female force working for Manila Water and going around other Sewerage Treatment Facilities in Metro Manila. Ten percent of Manila Water's employees comprise of those whose ages are below 30. Women comprise more than half of the company's young work force.

Photo 2: A crew inspects the separator section of the treatment facility. These portion of the water treatment separates the solid - tissue, cans and plastics - that come from their main sewerage pipe.

Photo 3: A team is working on "desludging" the sewerage system. They vacuum out dirty & foul smelling water from sewerage pipes and septic tanks in residences. A regular maintenance of septic tanks in our residences is needed to prevent 'flushed water' to come out from our houses.

again, in the spotlight

2005-08-31T20:17:00.000+08:00

I was expecting Tita Cory to arrive at Congress in the session at today's Justice Committee hearing. I guess due to the circumstances that happened yesterday, hindi na lang siya pumunta.

Opposition congressman had made good their promise not to attent today's session and left Rep Edmund Reyes to take his turn and make a speech.

If anyone remembers the Estrada impeachment, Rep Reyes was the designated spokesman of the prosecution team. He was eloquent and spoke clearly the facts of the case and summarized things for the prosection team, then. He was one of the media-friendly guy, you could say.

When the opposition Representatives from Batasan were gathering signatures for the impeachment, he remained inconspicuous.

Until he 'resurfaced' last week together with four other representatives that signed the impeachment complaint.

Reyes was a needed catch for the Opposition and minority in the house.

Before i spill out something else...

'nuff said!

In the middle of something

2005-08-25T09:37:00.000+08:00

Exciting day last Tuesday.

Covering the impeachment hearings by the Justice Committee at Congress was getting to be boring. So, my (new) boss sends me over to Welcome Rotunda to be in a rally. Besides, he was handling the coverage well by borrowing lenses from the Wire photographers. (Damn big lenses are valued at a price of a second-hand Honda Civic.)

So, he sent me over to Welcome Rotunda. Rallyists had blocked the Manila-bound portion of Quezon Avenue. Jeepneys that carried the rallyists were parked on the road already, so there was no way anyone could use that protion of the road.

Everything was calm when I got there. Police from the CPD and WPD were at the border marker.

A little later, everything got stirred up.

Atty Neri Colmenares was negotiating with the police that they pass through since they have permit to rally at Liwasang Bonifacio. They wanted to march forward there but WPD police officials would not allow them.

Tension went down as the leaders instead focused on continuing with their program. Eventually, the crowd gathered at Welcome dispersed.

2005-08-23T00:41:00.000+08:00

Members of the House Justice Committee gather at the head table at the Session Hall to work out things so that they could go beyond the objections being raised.

What awaits the chambers of Batasan this week? Will we see more fireworks or just a dull hearing.
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2005-08-15T23:54:00.000+08:00

Call us "D' stabilizers", quipped Alan Peter Cayetano(NP-Taguig-Pateros) as they took the spotlight at the press briefing. With him are (L to R): Juan Edgardo Angara (LDP-Aurora), Justin Chipeco (NP-Laguna), Joel Villanueva (CIBAC).
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2005-08-15T23:37:00.000+08:00

House Committee on Justice Simeon Datumanong will again have his hands full when the hearings on the Impeachment process versus President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo resumes tomorrow at the Batasan.
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Something 'Loose

2005-08-12T10:21:00.000+08:00

I have an assignment on the Arts. I'll talk about this story another day as I'm taking part in the writing process after a long while. Doing dual roles - writer and photographer - is quite an adjustment.

Elvin requested this a couple of days ago that I have something 'light' to feature

Our interview and shoot took us at the rehearsal of the Trumpets' production of Footloose, based on the '80s movie that starred Kevin Bacon. Show will start on Sept 2, and will run for the whole month of September at the Meralco Theater. Pop prince Jay-R and MYX VJ Iya Villania will be doing the leads. Jonard Yanzon of 17:21 will alternate with Jay-R. Others in the production are Nikki Valdez and Maoui David of the Balik-BOUNCE Palmolive commercial.

Click here for the full story by our 'entertainment editor' in the magazine.

A Counter Cha-Cha

2005-08-05T09:30:00.000+08:00

Something serious for a change, as I make reference to a blog by Alloy.

I'm getting ahead of the story the magazine is releasing on Aug 15. I am providing a preview counter to Alloy's, but more importantly to JDV and FVR.

But this does not mean that this is my stand. I am still studying the options.

* * *

James Marty Lim, National President of Liga ng mga Barangay pointed that we should not change our present constitution. Liga ng mga Barangay represents the thousands of Barangay Captains nationwide.

The Philippines has seen about 4 to 5 Constitutional changes in a century. Note that we have had the 1898, 1935, 1973, 1987, and possibly the 2005 or 2006. Take the US, which has had their Constitution for the past two centuries. The only amendments to the constitution they have made are Line Amendments, which he says that the US has made 22 line amendments.

We should amend two points in the present constitution. 1) let the people elect the members of Comelec & 2) let the people also elect the Supreme Court justices. That way, the issue of "utang na loob" to a president is avoided. Especially, now that the Supreme Court has 9 appointees by PGMA. That's half of the membership.

* * *

The whole chunk of the article will come out in ten days.

An InTENSE Moment

2005-08-05T08:25:00.000+08:00

The Congressional Hearing on the Wiretapping issue last Wednesday provided, on what I shall call a "comic relief".

The second half of the hearings had T/Sgt Vidal Doble and his alleged mistress Marietta Santos being interrogated by members of the lower House. Clearly, the soldier felt awkward seeing his mistress. Even the mistress was bashful when being questioned.

So, they had to separate the two, by asking Doble to take a seat at the back row with his lawyers while Santos was being questioned. The Representatives initially asked about their personal relations and the circumstance that led them to being involved in this controversial issue of wiretapping.

Dobel took his seat beside Santos again and they were grilled by the members of the House.

Meanwhile, Rep Edcel Lagman was adamantly objecting the line of questioning being hurled by his fellow members. He felt that this was not helping out the cause of the hearing, which was to be "in aid of legislation".

'Nuff said.

Hear(ings) we go again

2005-08-01T02:03:00.000+08:00

Senate and Congressional hearing will again resume this week.

In the Senate, Committee Hearings on Jueteng has been tentatively set on Wednesday. Will we see again a confrontation of Sandra Cam and Police Director Restituto Mosqueda (photo shown above)?

In Congress, the five committees will possibly resume hearings on the wiretapping issue, also this Wednesday. The question that lingers however is will former NBI Deputy Director Sammy Ong appear and bring his "mother-of-all-tapes"? Will former COMELEC Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano surface in the hearings?

Abangan ang susunod na kabanata.

2005-07-30T18:18:00.000+08:00

Meet KJWAN (counterclockwise from top right: Boogie Romero, J-hoon Balbuena, Kelly Mangahas, Marc Abaya, and Jorel Corpus) We had an interview last May and will have their story released on this Monday's issue
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Street Party

2005-07-26T08:34:00.000+08:00

Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City again came to a halt as protesters and supporters came in droves for the annual State of the Nation Address of the President.

Marching orders for us in the magazine was to just watch the SONA instead but my instinct as a photographer still came in. So, I still took pictures of the people gathered in the streets.

Traffic arrangements was similar when President Bush of the US came to Batasan. Rallyists crowded in front of Ever Gotesco Mall.

Other photographers had already gathered at the stage set by party-list group Bayan Muna in front of the mall.

Most of us took the opportunity to climb scaffoldings set behind the stage. I even met some students from UP who were making a documentary of the event. They were also scared by the feat and great lengths they were doing to get a good shot of the event.

I stayed there for over an hour and left for a meeting.

* When I came back home last night, the stretch of Commonwealth Avenue that people occupied stenched of garbage. I was covering my nose from the rotting smell. The local government did not do clean-up operations in the area after the event.