Harana ni Lolo

After two long years we finally got the chance to visit our own special place (again). It immediately became one of my favourite places on this earth because the last time we were here we were serenaded by this old man playing his guitar while we had our dinner.

He had a very traditional way of singing his songs. It was almost as if it was an impromptu performance. He sang old Filipino folk songs with such passion and such heart that, through his voice (and his guitar) it was like as if we were transported back in time. To a place where everything was so romantic and everything was so simple. I swear my wife was “kilig” throughout the entire evening.

We hope that when we visit this place again we will still find him playing his guitar signing his “malalim na tagalog” songs and continue to enchant couples till the end of time…

The School Fair

Every last quarter of January my Alma Mater celebrates the feast of the Sto. Niño de Prague. This year marks the 25th year since I graduated from High School. It has always been a tradition that the silver Jubilarians tow the carriage (carosa) holding the image of the Sto. Niño.

The Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat still looks the same as I remembered it from my grade school days. The only difference was the paintings at the back. But overall the abbey kept it’s traditional/original look. I remembered countless times when I used to sing at the seats beside the altar. This brings back a lot of memories from the time I was so innocent and full of hope.

The angels were still there to light the way…

My classmates used to make fun of these statues… Careless, and Carefree… those were the days.The fountain we “walked around” before graduation. I’m getting chills right now just by typing this. I was still with my dad and my lola during my college graduation. I will never forget the happiest times of my life.

The Office

It’s been quite a while since I posted an office photo. So here’s a quick look at my everyday people.

My Partners in crime so to speak. Needless to say, it’s been crazy fun and tough at times. I’m definitely looking forward to the next two years of my stay here.

Yes, it’s a typical 9-5 job where the pressure is just as hectic as any office can be. But thanks to these two characters, I’ve managed to make it a lot worth living. There will be times where we might disagree, but at the end of the day it’s all just work. Nothing personal…

Letting Go!

This photo was taken atop my friend’s car, while we were driving along the highway. Sometimes being in control is not the only option. Sometimes you have to surrender everything to the Lord and hope that he gives us something spectacular!

Paradise Revisited

It’s indeed more fun in the Philippines. Secluded beaches, clear waters and perfection in paradise.

Challenge of Life

Isolation

Today August 19, 2013 the Philippines has been hit by another low pressure area which is affecting the National Capital Region (NCR). Rains have been pouring since last night non-stop, hopefully the structural damage isn’t that great. We pray that the entire nation will be safe and that this storm shall come to pass.

My First Week ends…

My classmates entering our training facility…

Quality Time

By the beach a father tells her daughter not to wander off too far. Funny how to gauge how we protect our own kids, how to hold on to them and protect them, while letting go and trust their good judgement that they will be safe.

*This photo was taken at Boracay Island, Philippines

Picking up the pieces