Monday, December 29, 2008

Showing Leadeship In An Unwanted Form

.....Learning how to edit pictures in an advance way gave me an idea of producing another site. This site would be named Druoun X Images and I'm planning to launch it next year. But, I'm not yet sure if I'm going to make it on blogger, weebly or multiply. At first, I have this idea of making this site on multiply for me to finally have an account there. I'm not yet sure if were will it be.

.....Well, for now, let me have this post as an introduction of my soon-to-be-site. Druoun X Images will dedicate solely on designing and editing photos to soon-to-be-readers and would-be-avid followers of this site. What's best is that I will be offering my services for free. Maybe some of you may think that I'm trying to be crazy on one point or another but no, I'm not. This is only an experimentation of how can I make use of my talent in serving others. I would be happy to know how will I be able to touch their lives and I would prefer to call it as a movement of change or some sort of a pose for a change or something. Ahh.. Still doesn't have that concrete idea.

.....Anyways, leadership and service to others may come in a different form or approach and it does not matter as long as it's for the common good and it has something to do with the so called "change" then, it's worth pursuing. That's another leadership lesson for this day.

.....Let me leave you with this video, which I have posted on youtube (my first ever uploaded video) a while a go. I hope that you'll like this one!


.....And one last thing. Below, is my official banner for the said site. This would give you an additional bird's eye view of this soon-to-be-site.


Friday, December 19, 2008

Passion Caught Inside Out

.....Exploring on different ideas isn't bad as long as we don't take it seriously (way too serious). For this blog post, let me have this opportunity to share with you some experimentation that I'm doing with my photos. You may feel weird about it or you may say that I'm doing awkward things for my self, you may even call these photos "the extremes", "scary", or whatever you feel to call it.

.....Now, enough for the introduction because I'm pretty sure that you're very curious about it. Here are some of my edited photos:





.....As you can see, I'm the main character of these pictures portraying different scenes. It may look like that I really miss acting on stage so much that I'm expressing it through this pictures as if I'm the main cast of a movie. For those who don't know, one of my passion aside from serving other people and architecture is actually acting. I may not be present on stage right now but surely, I was able to express my inner expressions through portrayals. Thanks a lot for giving your spare time in reading this post!

Leadership Knows No Break

.....Hi guys! Today marks our official Christmas vacation. This gives me the moment to relax, unwind, and think of the things that I should do for this coming year. I'm not talking about the so called "new year's resolution". Things that I should think about are more of roles and responsibilities for my studies, organizations, and many more.

.....Responsibilities, as well as leadership, should not stop when vacations were being granted. Instead, it should be an opportunity to allow ourselves to do the things that we can't do during our hectic schedule comes to worst. We should be glad that certain vacations were created for us to unwind and be more creative on thinking what we should do that can affect the lives of other people. Let's not allow ourselves to be tired of making a difference to everyone that surrounds us. Who knows, maybe this is gonna be the last time that we may able to step our feet on this wonderful world. So try not to spoil every inch of a moment. Let's all go out, walk, leave a mark, and MAKE A DIFFERENCE!




Monday, December 08, 2008

A Day Of Making A Difference

.....Last Friday (December 5, 2008) seems to be a blessing for me. A blessing in the sense that I was able to exercise my potential as a true citizen of this country. It started early in the afternoon were the school has this annual gift giving ceremony for the old men and women of our society. I participated there and I really enjoyed seeing those people dancing and singing. I witnessed the joys on their faces giving us a projection that they were really glad. The event ended up with, of course, the usual gift giving participated by the entire school community (both students and employees).

.....After the event, we rushed toward University of Makati for the GK1MB. GK1MB stands for Gawad Kalinga Isang Milyong Bayani. In case you are not familiar of what I'm talking about, you may search on my previous posts or you may use the search engine. We had a great time there because a lot of celebrity bands and performers, also known as GK advocates, performed in front of us. Those performers both entertained and informed us about the upcoming projects of Gawad Kalinga. Of course, the event wouldn't be complete without the presence of its founder, my inspiration, Mr. Tony Meloto. He offered a great speech (it always happen) for us volunteers.

.....In conclusion, my day wouldn't be perfect and meaningful without my presence and participation for these two events. Honestly, these events remind me that I shouldn't give up on whatever advocacy that I intend to fight for no matter what obstacles will try to hinder me.

.....Let me leave this message for my readers that can relate on this post: Remember, we are all created and designed to do good for others. Don't give up easily because if you think that you have tried a lot and nothing great really happens, think again. A lot of people like you are still existing in this world trying to accomplish their mission to do good and to make a difference.


Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Venturing Photoshop

.....At last! My presence in the so called "blogosphere" is here again. I have a lot of things to share with but then I only have this limited time therefore, I can publish only one post for this day.

.....I would like to inform my audience that I already finished my Adobe photoshop self tutorial and I'm glad that I'm part of the growing community of avid photoshop followers. Being one of the software's slave entitles me to have sleepless nights trying to master different techniques that would enhance my skill.

.....I already have series of pictures being tested but only few were being saved because I don't want to fill my laptop's memory with my experimentation. I'm still reserving those awesome memory for my thesis works.


A photo taken during the Freshmen Day 2007

Modified picture through Adobe Photoshop

I'm still a neophyte trying to improve my skill. Till next time!


Monday, November 17, 2008

Here Comes The Laptop

.....At last! The I have my very own laptop. My father bought it for me and why should I give so much value for this one? It is simply because, this laptop is costly that my father need to extract some thousands of pesos just to meet its total price. Another reason is that, this laptop would serve as my personal connection and bridge for my academic life. Knowing the fact that I'm currently in my 5Th year and a candidate for graduation. Another good thing about it is that I'm now able to operate and learn different softwares that are related to Architecture. Of course, I really need to master all of those softwares for me to create a wonderful and presentable thesis.

.....All of these won't happen without the support of my father who use to sacrifice a lot just to make sure that we're on the right track.

.....For all of those photoshop savvy out there, watch out because I'm going to master it. (laughs) Anyway, no matter what would be my achievements, I'll remain as humble as always.


Touring Philconstruct 2008

.....As an architecture student, it is a must (or at least, highly needed) for us to look for different specifications and trends in the design and construction industry. That's why most of us students are looking for brochures that can help us in determining our desired materials to be used in our every designs and to give us additional ideas in every design problems.

.....I must say that students nowadays are fortunate enough because of the establishment of different exhibits and conventions. In my own case, I have participated and witnessed Philconstruct 2008 which happened last November 13-16 and was held at the SMX.

.....I did gathered a lot of brochures and freebies from different exhibitors and it was so tiring that I ended up sitting on the bench just to take a pinch of rest.

.....Philconstruct 2008 is, indeed, bigger and better than the previous ones. One thing that I noticed during my tour to different booths is that most the products that they're endorsing are environmental-friendly. Yeah you read it right, environmental-friendly. It's nice to know that entrepreneurs are now taking environmental issues seriously by developing products that could, in any way, sustain our available resources. Sustaining these said resources is a must rather than depleting them.

.....I hope that by the next Philconstruct, I will be able to see more environmental-friendly products that could help reduce the effects of these environmental dilemmas


Friday, November 14, 2008

Sweet Farewell For Blogrush

.....Have you heard about Blogrush? In case not, let me first introduce it for you. Blogrush is a website that gives traffic to lots of blog nationwide. No need for manual processes because it's just a widget away. All posts are being syndicated worldwide letting blog posts to be read all around the world. Now, enough for the introduction. Let me dig down a little bit deeper.

.....Blogrush is now being terminated by its developers due to some reasonable purposes. Here's the message that they left to their website:

---==+==---

.....After careful consideration, we have decided to shutdown the BlogRush service. If you have the widget code on your blog you will need to remove it.

.....When BlogRush launched in late-2007 it spread like wildfire all over the Web. Thousands of bloggers were talking about it and the service exploded to become one of the fastest growing free services in the history of the Web. During the first year of the service it successfully served 3.4 Billion blog post headlines and the BlogRush widget could be found on blogs all over the world; even up until the moment we closed down the service.

.....BlogRush didn't grow without its fair share of problems -- from security issues to abusive users trying to 'game' the system to much lower click-rates than expected. We also had some problems with trying to fairly control the quality of the network, and in the process made many mistakes in deciding what blogs should stay or go. All of these issues, ultimately, limited the service's full potential.

.....Our team worked very hard to try and build a service that would truly help bloggers of all sizes get free traffic to their blogs. This was our primary focus. Not once did we ever try to monetize the service with ads or anything else. BlogRush never made a single penny in revenue. We wanted to be able to help our users FIRST and then worry about monetizing the service later. Unfortunately, the service didn't work out like we had hoped. (It happens.)

.....I want to say "Thank You" to all of the great bloggers that at least gave BlogRush a test to see if it would work for them. We sincerely appreciate you giving the service a try.

.....We have received several offers & inquiries about acquiring BlogRush, but we are choosing not to go that route. While many might think this is crazy, we truly feel it's the 'right' thing to do for our users. Believe it or not, it's not always about the money. In fact, BlogRush will have lost a small fortune when it's all said and done, and it was by choice. There were many things we could have done to monetize the service but we wanted to make sure it was going to benefit our users first.

.....Last but not least I want to say that I hope the failure of this service doesn't in any way discourage other entrepreneurs from coming up with crazy ideas at 4AM (like I did with this one) and from "going for it" to just try and see if something will work. Without trying there can be no success. And as we all know, ideas are worthless without action. The Web wouldn't be what it is today without entrepreneurs trying all sorts of crazy ideas.

.....On behalf of the entire BlogRush team, we wish the best of luck to everyone with their own blogs, ideas, and crazy ventures.

Sincerely,

John Reese

---==+==---


.....I never expected Blogrush to meet its downfall that soon but then what can we do, it happened. As what people says "Nothing is permanent in this world." I agree on that and I will never blame its developers for a sudden termination. After all, I have a lot of reasons to thank them for creating Blogrush and for putting it part of history.


.....My view about John Reese's message is simple, it's filled with leadership. Why? Simply because it tells us about the team's effort in maintaining the site even though problems arises everywhere; Sufferings and sacrifices that were exerted fully; And courageousness to fulfill ideas even though it came from one's crazy ideas. It even caught my attention when John tries to challenge everyone to think of crazy ideas because from my point of view, thinking wild ideas can give us new and exciting results and those results may only be experienced if we take one step higher. What step am I pertaining? Implementation.


.....In conclusion, I would like to thank the entire team of Blogrush for a job well done. I'm hoping that you will continue to prosper the success of your creative thinking ("crazy ideas" as you call it).





Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Torture Alley

It's ten in the evening and I'm alone
Walking on streets towards my home.
I can feel the night's creepy chill
While hearing the noisy muteness that kills.

As I approach towards the alley,
It reminds me about death valley;
Accompanied by ghostly mysteries
And deep horrific activities.

With heart-pumping so fast, I move silently
Aiming to pass through the dreadful alley,
A place for wild tortures and deaths,
That continues to haunt every one's breath.

Heavy whispers entered my ears
Pleading for my innocent fears;
Longing for justice as they weep
"Please, get us out from this unwanted sleep!"

Hearing voices, that suffered from pain,
Awakens my entire weary veins;
Screams of those unfortunate victims
That was shattered by a mischievous villain.

Before reaching the end of this fear,
An unusual silhouette appeares;
Carrying the axe of life and death,
He stares at me with heavy breath.

Saving my life, I try to run away from him
But the song of death is tonight's hymn.
He implanted his axe on top of my head,
This is how my struggling story ends.

A story of a merciless prey
Slain at a dark shallow way,
Where thousands of innocent souls rally,
A place dubbed as "Torture Alley".

Monday, November 10, 2008

Teaching "Money Shots"

.....Last Saturday, with the help of my professor, I was able to attend a seminar that is being hosted by one of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Chapter. The title of the seminar is Architectural Photography and it was held at the Teatro Arkitekto located at the UAP Building.

.....At first, I find this seminar unusual for my status, a student, because not all students are given a chance of attending an Architectural seminar that is being hosted by a professional organization and not its student version, which is the United Architects of the Philippines-Student auxiliary (UAPSA). As I entered the UAP Building, different views were built in my mind as what to expect, and what to learn. I began thinking of great possibilities that the seminar would give. I began observing the surroundings and watching those architects who were once students like me.

.....And of course, here comes the interesting part, the seminar proper. The UAP South Triangle Chapter introduces the speaker of that day. He was none other than Paulo G. Alcazaren. A Landscape Arcitect with a lot of experiences and expertise. One would extract much of his energy just by reading Alcazaren's resume. He is a notable architectural Photographer because he's one of Bluprint Magazine's promising photographers.

.....The outcome of the said seminar is great! Great enough that I gained a lot of information from it. He (the speaker) thought us different tips and techniques in taking pictures for architectural purposes. He even gave us different examples of shots that can be considered as a "money shot" and "tourist shot". Of course, the aim is for us to master "money shots."

.....Overall, the seminar didn't gave me any regrets. I sacrifice one of my weekend vacation and that seminar gave me a realization that it is worth spending. Given the fact that it is a FREE seminar with lots of snack, freebies and learning to ponder. Everything would not happen without their sponsor, which is CANNON. The entire seminar were devoted to Architectural Photography that is why CANNON is there to support us all the way leaving us with their motto "Delighting you always" and yes, we were all delighted.




Sunday, November 02, 2008

All Souls' Day Confusion

.....Today, November 2, is an all souls' day. Speaking of all souls' day, My relatives and I visited our departed love ones at the cemetery where their bodies were placed. As we approached the entrance gate of the cemetery, a lot of things captured my attention that brought me in creating this post. What are those? Hmmp... Those are just the things that made my mind be confused and let me question myself on the real purpose of this occasion.

.....Let me begin this way, an occasion like this lets us have ample time to visit our departed love ones and to commemorate them. But, are these reasons all true?


.....As I approached the entrance gate, a lot of tents were built with names and pictures of politicians attach to it and political signage that expresses their sympathy to the public. Are these things done because of their sincerity to the people? Or... Do this things have something to do with public exposure? I guess this occasion is not just about the dead, it is also about politics.


.....As I entered the cemetery, too much traffic greeted me due to the irregular circulation of people plus a number of vehicles trying to make their way through a thick mob. I thought that it was made clear by the news that people from authority doesn't allow vehicles to enter the vicinity? What was that all about? Is it an issue of inconsistency?


.....As I walked the pathways, I witnessed different kinds of businesses all over the place. Money really do tame people. Businesses that differ from food to unnecessary stuff. Not only that, some vendors do make noise to catch the crowd's attention. Hmmp... Noise pollution. Too much for the word solemn.


.....As I stayed inside the cemetery and tried to feel the atmosphere of the area, what even shocked me are the trash scattered everywhere. These trash are evidences of human irresponsibility that was left at the scene of the crime. These evidences are telling us that we don't care for the environment that much.


.....All I could ever do that time is to think if people still know the real essence of this holiday. Are we really commemorating our departed love ones? Are we just there because we want to impress the public with what we can do for the sake of election? Or are we just there to creating lousy stuff, fooling around, and making a lot of mess? Let's try to respect this holiday for it was made for us to offer our prayers for the soul of those people that was finally laid at rest.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Morbidity

.....Have you or someone you know been a victim of SMS scums informing you morbid stuff? If yes, then you sure can relate on this post.

.....Last October 15, 2008, one of my friends sent us a forwarded message telling us about one of our high school classmates has died. Yes, it was a shocking feeling knowing that one of your former classmates has met her terrible end. Here is the exact content of the SMS:

....."Let us be silent for a few minutes and say our prayer for Wilnalyn Regalado who just passed away 5 minutes ago due to a car accident".

.....Ervin, we used to call him Ervz, forwarded this message to all his classmates way back in high school and that includes me. Yes, we were all terrified by the news and we all did texted him to confirm the news if it is true. I never received any of his confirmation and I was told by Irish, another friend of mine, last Thursday that the information isn't true and Wilnalyn is still alive. She even told me that Wilnalyn doesn't even have an idea about this SMS. She (Wilnalyn) even joked to Irish that maybe somebody is just jealous at her that they manage to create this stupid message.

.....It was a terrible joke to spread. Telling everybody that someone has died isn't a joke anymore. This is a rude thing to do because they're destroying someone's identity. Yes, maybe it's funny on their part because they feel powerful, on top of the line, and they even gained their revenge on their enemy (if this is the case). But try to figure this out. Does this act pays the prize of being superior? Is this really the prize to aim or something to be proud of? I think not. They're not fooling anyone because they are the fools. Their deeds are enough to know what their worth are.

.....To my readers, you are matured enough not to do such a reckless act. i may sound like I'm very mad to those people spreading this kind of messages but honestly, I'm not. I actually pity on them because they appeared to be the victim. Victim of hell. Who knows, maybe they are all part of this reality contest called life vying for a nice room down there (pointing to the ground).


Sunday, October 19, 2008

Another Life, Another Chance

.....I celebrated my 21st birthday last Friday, October 17, 2008. I must say that I've been receiving a lot of blessings from GOD. As what I've stated from my previous post, My life would have end if worse comes to worst. They say that what I'm having right now is a second life. A life we may consider as a chance to cherish every days that pass by and a life to consider as a time for influencing more people to do good and to become a better person. I'm one of those students that are candidates to graduate this coming march and I'm very thankful for that because after all the hard work, here I am finishing a five-year course.

.....This post is an opportunity for me to express myself in looking forward for a much more exciting future as a blogger and an aspiring architect. A blogger that expresses himself as an individual with a main advocacy of leadership and sincere service. And as an aspiring architect driving his way to something big challenging, and exciting adventures. Yeah, I'm already 21 and they considered me being part of those adults searching for good opportunities to become great in life.

.....This post won't happen if GOD does not interfered during that accident. He does not just gave me another life because what He gave me is another opportunity to experience what it feels like to become 21.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Poverty At Its Worst

     Today is blog action day. Our worldwide topic for this year is about poverty. We have different views and opinions on what poverty really is and what are its causes or consequences. My post for this day is actually my reaction paper in one of my architectural subjects, Urban and Regional Planning, that has the same topic. Here it goes...

     Urban poverty became one of the most extreme problems that arises in the Philippines. It caused numerous series of problems that destabilize the economic and social condition of this country. Squatting, ill-fated diseases, malnutrition, and lack of education are some of those problems caused by poverty.

     From my analysis, poverty was started during the Philippines' historical period. The caste system that started the segregation of unequal social status; The Spanish colonization that introduces the faith by giving alms to the poor; The Japanese and American colonization that worsen the effect through the declaration of world war II; The declaration of power by president Marcos; and a lot more. Poverty seems to become a natural inheritance of the Philippines. Passing poverty from one generation to the next generations.

     For me, poverty can be solved in many but not too easy ways. First, the government must deliver the issue to the public for they are the prime initiator of this country. Second, actions must be done from the people because the people are the primary resources of the government. Third, the youth must be aware of the issue. Awareness is the key to prevention. Fourth, non-government organizations must work with the first three sectors that I have mentioned.

     As you may have noticed, I did not include rally. Rallying won't do anything. Words are easy to say but hard to do. If we want change, we must do and implement change. The heart of the government is in each and everyone of us. Nothing will happen if we don't take the lead. Change is in you, me, and us. We are the change and together, we are the solution of this problem.

     Poverty? This may not happen or it may have topped hundreds of years ago if and only we learned from our past. Learning is a factor of contribution. One would become wise if he or she is determined to be wise and become part of the process.

     Poverty is, indeed, a problem of our society but it is not that much or extreme if we don't treat it that much. Remember the concept, everyone has a part.

     Message complete... I have done my part in giving awareness to the public as our mission for this paricular day. Now, it is up to you, my readers, to do your part in reducing the effect of poverty. We all have the choice and I', hoping that your choice is for the betterment of the entire humanity


Monday, October 13, 2008

Switching From Dusk To Dawn

.....One of the political icons of Manila City is Isko Moreno. He happens to be an actor turned politician. His rags-to-riches story captured the hearts of every manileños during the election. It's just one of the many reasons why he became to be Manila's vice mayor. He got the looks, fame, heart and most of all, the qualifications.

.....Last Saturday night at the funeral home, he happens to be one of the visitors to visit aunt Sonia's wake and extended his deepest sympathy to the family. Before he came in, regular mood can be felt from the place. But when the time he enters the room, the atmosphere has changed from solemn to a joyful night. Ladies are screaming and giggling while others were taking pictures of him. Even though he is now the vice mayor of Manila, people can't erase from their minds that he was once declared to be a matinee idol of their generation. That night made me think that I'm in a fans' day activity instead of inside a funeral with my aunt's wake. A humorous yet memorable moment to cherish. Yes, my aunt was already dead and we experienced sorrow for her lost and he [Isko] became to be an equalizer of aunt Sonia's relatives. An equalizer that maintains sorrow and joy to be in an equal proportion. After all, maybe he's just sent by God to remind us that "Hey, cheer up! There's no need to be sad. She's safe beside me."

Saturday, October 11, 2008

When Things Get Worst

.....In life, there's always a moment of victory and defeat and everyone is experiencing either of the two or both everyday. My moment of defeat just happened earlier this morning. I was approaching towards the door of a transport bus, situated near the driver's side, for me to enter. While reaching for its door handle, my right foot suddenly slip. That scene caused my entire body to jerk down, letting my body lie on the street with half of it located under the bus while the other half being exposed outside. Good thing I did use my right arm to support myself during that fall leaving only my butt hitting extremely into the ground. If worse comes to worst, if the conductor together with the driver did not saw me, I may either have been crushed by that same bus using its big front tire or the other half of my body, from head down to the hips, might have been crushed by the other vehicles passing by.
...

.....That incident caused my right arm with bruises and caused my butt aching until now. That scenario may kill me in an instant but it didn't happened because I still believe that there's someone out there protecting and guiding me. Anyways, let's discuss the root cause of that horrifying incident. It's caused by the broken pair of shoe that I'm wearing right now. I'm still wearing it because I didn't have time to buy myself a new one.
...

.....The lesson is, prevention is still better than cure. This [my shoe] is just a simple everyday problem but it caused me enough trouble that [may] bring my life to an end. They say that wise people do learn for their mistakes while wiser people learn from others' mistakes. I'm trying to be wise and I'm learning from that experience and I'm assuming that my readers prefer to be called as wiser people and I do hope that they will learn from my terrible mistake.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Give... And Make A Difference

.....I'm very amazed by Oprah's Big Give because they are actually teaching the contestants to give the help to everyone especially to complete strangers. Giving is a a hard thing to do but it is the best fulfilment one could ever give. I'm not talking to the money aspect although it is one of the elements of the show. I'm talking more about the heart, giving needy people by sharing your innermost help. It cannot be achieved when you don't like the things that you do. Giving starts from our heart heart.
...
.....Their contestants, at first may say that giving is about money but eventually, they tend to realize that giving is about anything that you may do for others' lives that could eventually make a difference. The show doesn't fail to make my eyes burst in tears as I watch the episode. I'm glad to know that there is a show like this that emphasize influence. Influencing is very important as a leader especially when we're talking about spreading good deeds and principles that the world may follow. Contestants, expect the winner, may not have earn cash prize from the said show but then,for me, they will emerge victorious for they experienced and learned the art of giving and making a difference to other people. They will become role-models and assets of the society. For Oprah, she has the passion of making a difference and she's one of this generation's leaders for she exemplify positive deeds that everyone may follow.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Freedom Writers: Change Is Within

.....This morning, I'm very thankful that I have the opportunity to watch Freedom Writers on HBO. It is one of the movies I'm longing to watch because of it's inspiring captivating movie previews on the same channel.




.....This movie is starred by Hilary Swank as Erin Gruwell, a teacher who exerts too much effort in improving the lives of her students. The movie made me have teary eyes as the film continues to play because of one certain thing, change. Change, positive change, really exist in each and everyone of us even though different obstacles pass our lives that becomes part of our hindrances for achieving our goals as a better person. Erin's effort was started by questions from her students such as "What difference can you make to my life?". As a beginner, she really exerts too much effort in winning her students' hearts and at the end of the story, she earned their respect and even change them into a better and worthy persons. Erin did exactly do the right thing even though it came to the point where she needs to choose between her husband and her job. Yes, she chose her job because of her dedicated passion. I can tell that she is a wonderful, inspiring and a leader. She's a leader in her own way because she sacrifice her husband in favor of her students. You see, making a difference can be felt when we actually doing something extraordinary to other people even though we're not related to them. Her sacrifices are proofs that she made a good decision for her life became better. She is actually a transformer for she transforms individuals from a potential threat into great persons. She can be considered a nation-builder because of her captivating story and role for the society.
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.....You too can watch and be inspired by the story of Freedom Writers by logging in to their website. Just click here. Make sure to focus on the story for it will teach you on how to initiate change. Also, try paying attention to the scene of the students listening to the author of The Diary of Anne Frank because the author has a dramatic role in telling the students about the real heroes of our society.


Monday, September 22, 2008

Initiating Peace

.....I received a text message from the United Nations (U.N.) yesterday. The message goes like this:
...
.....Today is International Day of Peace. The United Nations calls for one minute of silence and encourages Filipinos to unite for peaceful Philippines and a conflict-free world.
...
.....This message was sent to me directly from the U.N. database and I'm glad that they made me aware regarding U.N. Anyways, here's my point of view regarding peace:
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.....Peace is highly needed in our country because the conflict in Mindanao shows that this country is negatively elevating when it comes to peace. We often see war scenario in local news and it is an alarming situation for us and we, as citizens of this nation, should do something that would make our fellow citizens be aware of the issue that our country is facing. Peace was given to us freely by God and we must cultivate it. Peace should be a never ending element that can be found at the middle of a particular conflict. Without peace, our country will be drowning from chaos and when there's chaos, destruction is inevitable. So let us all work hand in hand in addressing this message to everyone. This is just a blog post until someone pays attention to this post and tries to do something for a change.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Online Friendship

.....Meeting other people online is not that possible nowadays because of sprouting social networking sites. Some offers online friendship while others are offering love searching. Whatever the intention is, make sure that you're making the right move in signing into the site's services. Making friends online is not that bad after all due to the ever growing world of information technology. The effects of this online services will only differ to the people using it. What do I mean by that? I'm only talking about the way people will apply their influence to the service and, of course, the other way around. The bottom line here is that will you allow yourself to use the service for the good's sake or the bad? Or, will you allow the service to influence you badly or in a positive way? At the end of the day, only you can tell of what the result is.
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.....I've discovered a site that meets this service and you may visit it by clicking HERE . You may become a member if you want to. Just don't forget that you are the navigator of your own free-will. Be wise in making use of this service.
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Go on... be friendly... meet other people around the world.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

RMA 2008

.....On my last post, I talked about one of this year's Ramon Magsaysay Awardee. This time, let me have the opportunity to discuss the 2008 Ramon Magsaysay Awards.
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.....This year's Ramon Magsaysay Award is very significant for it is their 50Th Anniversary. In accordance to the late President Ramon Magsaysay's birthday, the awarding ceremony was done on August 31, 2008 and was held in Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo Cultural Center of the Philippines. The event was graced by distinguished people all over Asia./ Some of the guests were lauriats of RMA and were dubbed as Pathfinders in a Changing Asia.
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.....This year's Awardees were Grace Padace for Government Service, Therdchai Jivacate for Public Service, Center for Arcgriculture and Rural Development Mutually Reinforcing Institutions for Public Service, Prakash Amte and Mandakini Amte for Community Leadership, Akio Ishii for Journalism, Literature and Creative Communication Arts, Ahmad Syafii Maarif for Peace and International Understanding and Ananda Galappatti for Emergent Leadership.
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.....It is good to see these people formed in one event to honor their greatness and to let other people be inspired by their advocasies. This is a great opportunity for me to witness this kind of event and I'm looking forward to wait and see new faces of change next year. I'm glad that I was given a chance to be exposed in events like this. By the way, This was my second time to attend RMA's Awarding Ceremony.

Sunday, September 07, 2008

Brick By Brick

.....I have attended the lecture of Gov. Grace Padaca entitled " Delivering Good Governance, Brick by Brick" last August 28, 2008. Gov. Grace Padaca is one of the 2008 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees. She was recognized by the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation for her remarkable effort in serving the government. By looking at her, one may feel pity because she was crippled early caused by polio. To tell you frankly, one should not feel that way because she acts way beyond her personal limitations. She graduated in school with excellent scholastic records and eventually became a CPA.
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.....What I admire her the most is her determination to change the political structure of Isabela. Her becoming a Governor of Isabela is not that easy given the fact the her opponent is a member of a political dynasty that ruled Isabela for a very very long years. Yes, she won over her opponent but the trials doesn't stop there. Becoming a Governor given the disabilities and the obstacle set by her opponents is not that easy. What's good about her is that she has this influence that made her subordinates follow and the conscience that made her better comparing to other politicians. She is, indeed, crippled but her presence can be felt running in a super sonic speed. A speed that can strike every detractors that wants to block her way. She is Grace... Grace Padaca... The governor of positive change.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Blogger Of Action

.....Are you experiencing extreme poverty? If not, then good for you. Unlike us, some people are experiencing extreme poverty worldwide and no one will be able to help them if we, bloggers, will not take our powerful part. Media can be our toll in making it happen. Let's show our readers that we have the capacity of letting the whole world know that poverty is a virus that infects human lifestyles. We are human... and we have a choice! I chose to be a worthy blogger.
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How about you, will you join our campaign?
...I hope you will.



Saturday, August 23, 2008

Starting It Right

.....Last Wednesday, me and my fellow officers have our team building session at the La Mesa Eco park in Quezon City. But before telling you the entire details, I believe that I haven't told my readers regarding my latest mission. I'm the Architectural Students' Association of the Philippines Incorporated (ASAPhil Inc.) National President. The organization holds different campus chapters around the Philippines. It's another challenge for me to be part of such organization especially the level that I'm into. This is actually lending my services and leadership prowess to a whole new level. This is not about our department and either our school where I'm currently enrolled to. This time, It's about the world outside the school. In a national level to be exact. This is about giving our best in lending our services toward different school chapters.
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.....Now, let's go back to my earlier topic. We had our team building session there and it was conducted by me. The idea of conducting such activity is for my team to realize the world that they're in and for us to be bonded us one. I'm just making sure that before we initiate our activities, we all know our worth and what difference we can contribute for the organization. Let's put it this way, if one would like to change the world, one would start changing his/her personal character; If one would like to understand the world together with its problems, one would simply start understanding his/her own self and problems; and if one wants to learn from the world, one would need to start learning from the nearest person that is part of the world, his neighbors.
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.....To end this discussion, my team did appreciate the activity that we made that day and I'm pretty sure we have a great chance of hitting the target that we're aiming. I hope that you learned something from this post and of course, from this blog of mine. Thank you for reading!



SURP Mania

......Last Wednesday, me and my group of classmates went to the School of Urban and Regional Planning (SURP) in University of the Philippines (U.P.) to research for data that will support our thesis proposals. When we entered their library and started browsing the contents of every books, we all felt awkward. Why? It's because every book contains very important information and it has the possibility to be included in our respected thesis. What's even worse is that we had the hard time of deciding on which of those books will be photo copied and will be passed to our professor considering the fact that we only have a limited budget during that time. Anyways, we'll go there again this Monday for us to gather more data.
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......What's really interesting is that the place is like a haven for us students and professionals taking the field of urban and regional planning for it stores a lot of books and information raging to different kinds of topics. Pollution, traffic, informal settlements, environmental concerns. Just name it, it's there. I'm truly grateful that our generations have the opportunity to have the knowledge invested by different generations who lend their expertise to the field or urban and regional planning. They can truly by named as the leaders this profession.



The Blog Action Day 2008

......I've received an email from the Blog Action Day team and the content of the message is about the Blog Action Day 2008. They contacted me because I was one of their participants last year. Last year's theme is different from this year's because their purpose is to deliver a specific concern each year. Their our theme last year is about the environment while this year, we will be tackling about poverty. Poverty is one of the major concerns of the world for it can hit everyone with its phenomenal impact. I immediately responded from their message by having myself registered to their site. Another day in a part of the history because of this program. Great numbers of blogger around the world will be telling about one issue and that is poverty. Expect a big difference of October 15, 2008 as we, bloggers, do our part in spreading the awareness for everyone to understand. Be part of this movement by visiting their site at http://www.blogactionday.org/. I'll be expecting you to be part of our movement. Let's all unite as one big community of blogger! Involve yourself if, you want to make a difference!





Saturday, August 16, 2008

The Super Strikes Again

.....I was riding on a transport bus when for the second time, I saw the crazy man standing with an improvised costume made from our national flag. He's standing at the same place where I last saw him. The only difference is that he's not waving to his audience instead, he's standing-still focusing his attention forward. He exhibited a dramatic post of a superhero-like figure. With that, I got a chance to witness and see the full details of his costume. I noticed that some of his props were improvised knife and gun made from some sort of an illustration board.
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.....Upon noticing his appearance, I can't help but to wonder why this man starts to appear in a public place wearing his improvised superhero suit from our own national flag. He appears to be so proud of it that he even showed his self for everyone to see in a standing-still position. Is he trying to imply a lesson that we do not yet understand? Does he wanted to be the nation's icon in terms of crises? Is he trying to become one of our country's protectors?
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.....For my own point of view and personal interpretations, I believe that this man wants to deliver an important message for each and everyone of us. He maybe crazy but then he has these guts of showing to the people that everyone has the capacity of becoming a hero on its own. Everyone has his/her specific role in this nation. We just need to be vigilant and have our minds open for us to know our part in building this nation. I can't argue with people that wants to emphasize that that man is crazy and what he's doing is just part of his mind's illusion and I don't need to interpret his actions in a deeper sense. I still believe that everything that's happening here has a purpose and meaning driven by those external forces. These forces has their own capacity of letting us know things that we need to do. God, for instance, has his own unique way of telling us his message. Again, people may argue with me through these sets of ideas. All I know for now is that I'm doing my own part in contributing for this country to prosper.
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How about you?... What's your part?



Sunday, August 10, 2008

The Speech Of Experience

.....My term as the school's Supreme Student Government President has ended during the Induction Ceremony which was done by the new SSG officers. The event was occurred last June 30, 2008. was given an assignment that time and that is to hand over the key of responsibilities to the SSGs of this school year. Before giving the Key, I delivered my farewell speech. That moment isn't a moment of drama but a time of giving inspirations, motivations, and learning for both SSG and DSG officers. For the benefit of my readers, here's my speech that delivered to them.
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To my fellow student leaders, leadership is not a matter of self-interest instead, it is about sacrifices and willingness to serve other people. Always bare in mind that whatever actions that you intend to do, do it for the best of others and not for your own personal sake. And no matter what happen, there will always be critics but try not to be affected by them. Believe in yourself and don’t try to please everybody. Remember you took this responsibility not because you need to please people, you took it because you want to serve these people.
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To the new set of SSG officers, congratulations for being part of the family. Always remember that even though you’re compose of ten departments, you still need to work as a group. Try to implement things for the benefit of the school and not for your personal intentions that only your respective departments will enjoy. Try to balance things in a proper manner.

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What I've said are some of the principles that a good and responsible leaders should have. I will never have a chance of acquiring those principles without the aid of experience. Experience is one of my teachers and he never fails me.



G.K. Hopping

.....Yesterday, Me, and Monique went to G.K. Talanay and witnessed the DHL Volunteers' Day. They prepared programs that officially starts their build. We didn't witnessed the whole event for we together with Ms. Grace (a new G.K. volunteer) Dr. Erick and Mr. Benjie, G.K. advocates, have our own sets of scheduled appointments for that day. We visited multiple G.K. sites located in different part of Quezon City. We were fortunate to meet, greet, and mingle with G.K. beneficiaries. What we did is some sort of a mall-hopping activity but instead of malls, we where actually visiting villages. Villages that showcased the dream of former squatters, the hope that motivates us the Philippines can rise against poverty and a binding force that shows greatness amidst tons of crises.
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.....It is a fulfilment for me to visit those villages that were created and made possible by people that sees life in a much deeper perspective. Gawad Kalinga, Translated in English as "To give care", is really a miracle that God has sent for the Philippines in order for the Filipinos to see the much greater values that life has to offer. Love, hope, dream, work, cooperation, and a lot of other values were taught by the said organization. It even teaches me to become free. Free from the box where I' once belong. With this post, I'm able to express the joy that comes out from myself that I haven't yet revealed from my past posts. Now, a may officially announce loud and proud that I, MMatthew S. Chua is a G.K. Volunteer! I don't need to wait for the time that I'm going to be a licensed Architect because at this moment, I'm already an Architect... An Architect of hope!



GK At 08/08/08

.....The date 08/08/08 is very significant to most of the people. In fact, some of this year's great events were celebrated during that date. Some believe that it has something to do with luck while others see its value for it can be remembered easily. The opening of the much awaited Beijing Olympics, concerts, launching and many more. I won't talk about the Olympics like most people do instead, I'll talk about the event which I have attended during that specific date.
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.....Me and my fellow volunteer, Moniqu, have attended the launching of G.K.'s Designers' Village Campaign. The timing is just right in presenting to the public its newest campaign and soon-to-be-village for it will eventually become another trademark for both G.K. and the Philippines. The said event was held in NBC Tent located in The Fort, Taguig City (also known as global city). The place was filled with lots of prominent people, famous personalities, professionals, volunteers and etc. All were there excited and showed great interest in witnessing such an event that defies hope. The speakers made the audiences inspired by the time that they started talking and visualizing on one of G.K.'s amazing plans.
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.....It is also a significant event for me not only because I'm part of G.K. but also because of the fact that I'm studying Architecture and we will be of big help in designing the said village together with those top Architects who were also present and showed their willingness to render their expertise in helping G.K. achieve its goals.
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.....In conclusion, the event made people realize that everything is possible when one would initiate to build what he/she has dreamed for. Dreams will always be dreams and no one will know about it unless you'll be telling it. It is good for people to know but it is much better for people to see and experience that your dream became part of the reality.


Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Inspiration: The Mirror Of One's Self

.....What does one have to do with the other? Will one have the capacity of changing the other through his ways of facing life's trials? Will the other, eventually, responds and appreciates the other? Will he be able to follow the things being implemented by the other? All of these questions are pertaining to a scenario that has something to do with real-life inspirations.
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.....Inspiration is something being acquired or achieved by a person to someone that he/she thinks that that person deserves his/her inspiration. Inspiring someone can be considered as entrusting your life and following what that person had started during his/her entire stay on earth. I'm now pertaining to the deeper side of inspiration. Inspiration is indeed acquired by many people who have touched by that certain person being inspired by them. They tend to follow the deeds of that person in order to achieve a specific goal. Inspiration has something to do with self-motivation for it motivates a person to be someone as equal as his/her inspiration. I'm touched when somebody treated me as one of their inspirations because I know that through me, I'm able to do something great to their everyday life. Of course, I have no intentions of breaking that bond that they have established between the two of us. I don't want them to feel that particular strange emotion where they will experience that breakage. I don't want them to feel regret because of making them realize that I'm not worthy to be followed as a good example. If it is easy for them to be inspired and moved by my rightful yet simple deeds, then it is a lot easier for them to be disturbed if I'll do something that would turn them off.
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.....Remember what I've said earlier, inspiration is a self-motivation. If you are one of the causes that will motivate them do better, then humbly lend yourself to them because you are already attached to their everyday living. It is an honor to be inspired by others and consider it as a reward for doing good and a challenge to do even better for others to follow. Now, let me ask you this question. Do you want to be inspired by others?



Monday, August 04, 2008

Sustainability: Our Key For The Future

.....Sustainability, the solution of today and the language of tomorrow. Sustainability made it's own direction towards the main steam of different fields and practices. Architecture, for instance, is doing what it can in making designs in a sustainable manner. The environmental side is also doing its own unique part. We may not notice the value of sustainability but by far, we may long for its presence once every thing's gone. No one wants to have a world filled with chaos, right? So, let's all do our part in preserving the beauty of our surroundings. It's time for everyone to act! Search for the word sustainability or sustainable on the Internet and find out ways in which you can help. Let's all work hand in hand to protect what we have and inspire others. It's time to use our influence inorder to achieve a much greater goal. Let's all make a difference! Difference will not be around if we don't exert effort because it could be found within each and everyone of us.

Friday, August 01, 2008

What Influence Can Do?

.....Can a person make others do a certain act when they find it unusual? Will somebody be brave enough to stop and guide a group of travelers to take a much complicated path? Does an ordinary man has a possibility of changing the lifestyles of every individual? The answer is yes! How?...The answer has something to do with the word "influence".
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.....You see, influence should be a tool of every individual who believes that he/she has the capability of leading other people. It is some kind of a remote control of every leaders for their followers. If one would decide to let his followers do a certain action in order for them to meet their desired goal, he make use of his influence. Yes, influence will not happen overnight but if you work for it, you have the chance of earning it. Work in a way that one should apply things that he/she teaches and does things that would motivate them [their followers] to follow. I'm not trying to be political or even suggesting effective campaign solutions, all I'm trying to emphasize the power of influence and what it can do. I did chose this topic not because of bragging what I have as one of the aspiring leaders rather, I'm doing this for a much greater cause and that is to educated my readers that influence is one of those factors that affect and create a good leader. Trust me, when one masters this particular tool, it would be a lot easier for him/her to lead his/her people. Influence really is a tool both in leading and serving others. Now, if you want or decide to make a change by leading others, remember to develop your influential capabilities. Influence...Lead...and Make a difference!

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

The Phenomenon Brought By Blog

.....Blog. This word was not known yesterday but today, it is a sure phenomenal hit for it gave a lot of people the motivation to explore different ideas by writing and reading blogs from around the world. Some of the personalities expert in their specific fields did saw the blog's potentials and benefits. Personalities from media, companies, and other related fields are now making use of it by promoting different companies or products, expressing their treasured opinion on current issues, advocating environmental conservation, or even as a means of an income-generating site by the help of advertising sites that bloomed around the world. But what does blog really means?
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.....According to an online encyclopedia, the word blog was a combination of words web and 0log which eventually evolved into what we now know as blog. It contains entries in a form of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or videos and is commonly displayed in a reverse mode.
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.....Blog has the potential of bringing surfers in and making them write and post online. Through this process, people usually have the urge to post their views on any topic that touches their artistic sides. It usually creates an addiction especially when you know that people all over the world has the possibility of accessing and reading your posts. Yes, this can also be considered as one's personal website and a lot easier to navigate. In addition, information can now be availed by anyone through blogs that appeared in every search engines. One can now fill their computers with lots of free information from the Internet. But, be careful in determining those information because not all information posted were true and with exact basis. So, no wonder that some group of people were initiating blog awards for the purpose of citing worthy and informational blogs. This kind of event is a big help for it gives blogs and bloggers the recognition that they need.
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Try to discover the power of blogging. Read, write and discover. Have fun!

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Making One's Time Productive

.....I'm so sleepy today. You know why? It is simply because of my class schedule during Tuesdays and Thursdays. My first class starts at 7:30 a.m. while my last class will end at 8:00 p.m. A very tiring day especially when I'll tell you that I only have three subjects for the entire day. Meaning, I have a total of six straight hours vacant in the middle of my first and second subject and one hour vacant in the middle of my second and third class. That's a total of seven-hour vacant for the entire day. So boring isn't it? Especially when one could not determine or find ways on how he/she can make his time productive enough. Thank God that some school officials recruited me to be one of their student assistant (s.a.) in their newest project. That means, we are the pioneering group of s.a.'s to be assigned for a specific job that would contribute to the school's quality management. Not bad for an income-generating and, at the same time, worthwhile activity that would make me busy for that particular hours. This job, for me, is an opportunity to have additional money for my thesis and academic expenditures. I'm so glad of this kind of opportunity. I hope that you too can find worthwhile activities that would keep you busy and, at the same time, can contribute to the betterment of the community where you are at.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Super Filipino

.....Earlier this morning, while riding in a transport bus, I noticed a man standing besides one of the major roads of Quezon City where I used to pass by every time I go to school. He wears an improvised costume of a super hero and I can easily tell that he's indeed crazy. One thing that catches my attention is his improvised cape that was actually made out of the Philippine national flag. People were laughing at him because of his childish act that can easily caught every one's attention while others were insulted because the national flag was used in an unlikely manner. Yes, he is crazy and he doesn't know what he's doing but let's try to look in a deeper perspective and try to assess him beyond the box, I bet one would say "He maybe a fool but his dedication and love for the country is there".
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.....Yes, you read it right! Dedication and love for the country. This is really important for these are the measurement of us being a Filipino. A Citizen who does everything for the betterment of the country. He maybe a fool but his intention of becoming a superhero for our country is there. How about us? We were blessed to have minds that function so well but why don't we have such thinking like him. People who would love to take the risk of involving in events that our country can benefit from our talent and skills. In conclusion, that man is crazy but we can be considered as crazier than he is if we don't stop doing things that can degrade our country and fellow Filipino. Let's all make a change by lending ourselves for the country in order for our nation to boost its integrity.

Friday, July 18, 2008

An Accomplishment Of The Day

.....Today is last day of my prelim exam. I had on one out of three classes for some reasons. My fist class of the day-the Design Subject- and my last last subject-Autocad- had announced that we don't have to meet. We just need to accomplish the draft of chapters one to three of our thesis proposal and will serve as an exam for our design subject. In other words, I spent most my time facing in front of the computer trying to finish the said requirements. I did went home early today and it can be considered as a phenomenon for me because I always end up leaving the campus late at night. The reasons are either because my class ends up late, finish academic stuff or doing my sideline which is the extra-curricular activities. Anyways, what I'm just trying to tell my readers is that I can absolutely have my rest for the day! It's such a wonderful accomplishment!

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