Boracay 2014: Bakasyon Grande

Few days to go and I’m officially saying hello to a new academic year and bye to summer season plus summer classes (HAHAHA). Actually, the moment I am pounding the keyboard for this entry, it’s raining and I asked to PAGASA (the Philippines weather portal) if we shall officially welcome the coming of rainy season? Well, one thing is for sure, I need to adjust for concluding summer season because sleepless nights and mind blowing experiences to undertake all the shit of schooling plus the people who creates drama on their own will come my way again. (Deep SIGHS for the last part:D)

Not before June 2 (our first day of class) will arrive, it’s a MUST for me to share my unforgettable summer experience of 2014. It’s been a month since we’ve been to that utopic island on the province of Aklan world famously renowned as BORACAY! Though it was quite a long already to share my noteworthy experience at Boracay, the memories are still fresh and I am still frenzied and shakable to that once of a lifetime land, water and air trip journey (certainly not the last:D).

Going to Boracay island, it’s either you land by air at Kalibo Airport or by water at Jetty Port. From the Jetty Port, you still need to ride on a ferry/roro boat before going to the island proper. For us, we’ve ride the vessel of 2Go at Batangas Port going to Caticlan and ride on a plane going back to Manila.

2Go vessel departing from Batangas Port going to Caticlan.

Picture first as I enter the Plane.

View on my window: SUNRISE!

Aerial view of Manila as the plane land in NAIA.

Air Force One of USA: The official plane of Pres. Obama during his state visit in Philippines.

The experience for about three days in Boracay is certainly one of a kind but the prices and taxes it offers to the island goers are a big NOT. Before the island proper, you need to undergo a lot of window for payment purposes as per the NEW ordinance of the province for environmental fee. Well, allow me to have this very opportunity to say openly to the administrators of the island that we look forward for a better and worth the pay Boracay for everything that you’ve imposed to the island goer:D

The basic means of transportation among the people near Boracay and for the island goer is tricycle. The same minimum fee of eight-pesos is what they are observing as a payment a like the public utility vehicles we have in the Metro. As a chatty person, I also learned that tricycle men do not go on a ride everyday but once every other day to pave the way for others to have a good price of salary for the day. To monitor them, they used color coding scheme to easily notice them. During our first day (friday), the tricyle are on yellow color and the next day they are on color blue.

Finally we are now heading to our hotel at Crown Prince Regency Hotel. I commend the hotel for having a good accommodation and personnel’s from the hotel who tirelessly give our demands. Of course, one of the MOST important things that hotel can offer to the occupants is the good and strong access to Wi-fi connection and they got it so for that I give them a five stars :D.

At this juncture, let me introduce you to the world’s famously renowned white and fine sands of Boracay!

The Iconic Grotto of Boracay about four meters away from the shore.

Two-thumbs up with a back draft of the iconic Grotto.

A sight of Boracay Island from the top of Grotto.

 

About 5:30 and the sun is ready to set with the iconic Grotto on the side.

What a sight to rejoice how magnificent the island indeed.

The Vinta like boats of Boracay on the shore .. up, up in a way by the wind to the middle of the sea.

Stone formation on the island of Boracay with the effeminate pose and shades wear on the side :D

Sun is about to set, day one is about to end but Boracay life is about to start ... by NIGHT ^_^

On our continuous trip to Boracay, we go on an island hopping and went to this one of a kind Puka Shell Beach that really made and dubbed Boracay as first internationally known Island compare to other beaches the other countries are proud of to have. We went there after lunch so the sun is really angry and gives its full power to shine and radiate over us. I do not know what to do because it’s really hot and I cannot tolerate that kind of weather but as I step on my feet to the island and have a good glance of the sea from a distance, I just smiled widely and said to my self – WOW! Puka Shell Beach is a place of its own and can hardly be define by any superlative adjectives we have in the English language to encapsulate the beauty of the island. To prove myself with all my exaggerations and over rated annotations to the island, I’m here to proudly present to you my photos … and my poses (HAHAHA). Enjoy :D

Welcome ... to the superb, sensational and wicked island of Puka Shell Beach. Thank You! HAHA XD (Beauty Contest?)

Marker of the Puka Shell Beach proudly speaking about the beach as the place that made Boracay First Internationally known!

A sight from a distance that makes me wonder how marvelous the Creator is to give us this WICKED place-- Puka Shell Beach!

From a distance, it's a must to have a photo of the beach on a bare foot stepping on the very fine shells with the sea at the back. Lovely!

Candidate #8 Binibining Mimay from Puka Shell Beach. Tenkyoww :D HAHA XD

For this photo: *insert caption ... HAHAHA XD

All good things must come to an end. So for the last day of our stay at the island, we save it last of the best by going on an island hopping again riding on a boat with life savers on the body and goggles for snorkeling. This is really a good shot to do on the last day as we saw from a distance the beauty of the whole island and different islet like the crocodile island (because of its look from a distance) and crystal cove island. Well, snorkeling is the best because I was given an opportunity to take a glimpse on the grandeur of the sea and all the creatures that live here in. 

Wefie with my family while ridding on a boat for island hopping :D

Snorkeling: A glimpse to the under the sea world.

Our three days vacation in the island is really cherishable because of all the journey we had undertake that becomes more meaningful due to my family on the side that are all ready and ecstatic to ride on the trip. Certainly, it will not be the last time for me to be at the island so for you my dear love Boracay, so long.

And to encapsulate my deepest desire to speak of the island experience, let me convey it with the following photos. Thank You! 

I <3 You BORACAY!

PRIDE

(Photo from google.com)

PRIDE MARCH--"We don't need your approval to exist, we don't need your permission to subsist."

The same feeling and burst of emotion I have when the Philippine’s King of Talk, Tito Boy Abunda, who is also known as a leading personality in advocating LGBT rights and equality, make annotation with regards to gay-man relationship. That very moment when Tito Boy is uttering his remarks, I can feel the sheer passion and love he has just to enlighten his millions of viewers all throughout the archipelago. Certainly, I felt agitated and flustered to that “CONCERN” father whom I don’t know what he’s point is all about; which I am very CERTAIN that it’s POINTLESS!

On a survey conducted by Pew Research Center, they tagged the Philippines as one of the most “gay-friendly” country in the world. My reaction: REALLY? It’s good to hear such compliment to the LGBT community but in reality, does this make sense among Filipino people? Is this an affirmation from the densely heterosexual population of the Philippines that they are ready to accept the LGBT community? Of course, it is in my fervent hope for an affirmation of a YES!

The fight for the right and equality we aim to enjoy has been a long narrative to tell. Many efforts have been made to uplift the degrading level of our fellow LGBT members in different ways they can be associated such as socio, political, civil and economic engagement. The promotion of equal access to human rights which should be a privileged enjoyed by every human person whether perceived to be a homosexual human being should be given with utmost respect and sensitivity at all time. I am also one of many LGBT members who seek for a zero hate and crime incidence that vehemently denounce gender and sexuality based oppression, prejudice, discrimination and stereotyping at all means and ways. We are not aiming for a UTOPIC society but instead a sustainable and responsive one which can accept and understand our endeavors ALSO.

There are others who can understand and accept us as human beings part of this weary world but MANY are still guileless of our existence. On the top list of people who condemn us whether of our actions and existence is the Catholic Church. Every time that we make efforts with regards to enliven the status of LGBT community, on the front liners to obstruct and preclude is the church. Yes, they are the instrument to connect us from the divinity of God in heaven but they don’t have the DIRECT connection to command and charge us of what is GOOD and EVIL. If it will be a debate of theological perspective then it such an oxymoron and we would look like fools since it can be interpreted as many ways as there are Christian Churches.

To be a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender is not like a disease which should be isolated and quarantine for the benefit of humanity. As a matter of fact, the issue of LGBT MUST be the concern of humanity. It’s not like a cancer which has stages and if somebody goes out of the closet then that person is on TERMINAL stage. IT’S A NO! More than anything else it is the reflection of how SPIRITED and FORMIDABLE that person is. On behalf of the LGBT community, those people who prefer to say the truth to the public with great PRIDE and HONOR should be venerated and lionized for a milestone of great leap to one’s life existence. That very moment DEFINES the life you CHOOSE to be!

I have a lot of known people and friends who choose to be who they are now- lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. At the end of the day, smile is still painted in their faces as normal as any other heterosexual person has. In other words, we are still NORMAL. Actually, we are more than being normal since we are SPECIAL as we share the same common laughter, hilarity and unconditional love only from LGBT people you can experience and feel. We choose to be empowered and unshackled despite many issues thrown to us. Still, with all the adversity, we prefer to stand up with head held up high, right hand on the waist and left hand waving like a beauty queen saying “bye and sorry” for YOU.

Currently, there is a gradual acceptance from our society on the efforts of the LGBT community as we introduce the “Ang Ladlad” as a political affiliation for Filipino LGBT in lobbying and fighting for relevant efforts with regards to the issues we are facing in the Congress. This is a good note that more or less we are being recognized from the national level.

For most of you, I have a simple reminder to share: just SHUT your mouth if you will not say something good. That is simple to do but most of the time we regret to follow. Yes, you are entitled to express and say what you want to tell to the world (as if the world cares to your opinion) but to go beyond your limitation on depriving and making personal attacks and manifestation to the character of a person is a big NO for you mister and misis. You’re just making dramas of your own amusement and our disgust. Besides, I am sure that your teacher in elementary years (if you were sent to school, if not I’m imposing it to your face now :D) teaches you of this basic maxim of life: Judge not, that you shall not be judged.

My dear, spread your wings and prepare to fly like a butterfly with great PRIDE. Soar up even higher to the different layers of the clouds and scattered the love we want to share the world. At the end of the day, draw the rainbow that shows our humble response to the call for action in making stand to the virtue of life and accept with full PRIDE and clean heart the challenges that will come on our way as we speak and make stand.

My hopes are still very high that we can translate the stigma of the past as men wear make-up with red, five inches stiletto; and as women cut their hair to Mohawks with the groove to style using wax.

One Direction to Wrong Direction

Photo from google.com

Upon finalizing my very first entry on my blog at Onlayao’s residence; because they have a very good internet connection, a particular newscast catch my attention together with Levie with the same reaction from us about the sold out ticket of the “allegedly” MOST POPULAR  British boy band group in the world -- One Direction.

This for me is something worth to comment, to react, to utter, to discuss and above all to FREAK OUT! At this point allow me to embrace the language of Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago during the impeachment trial of CJ Corona – WAHHHH. I couldn’t imagine how the boy band group ONE DIRECTION turns many Filipino youth into WRONG DIRECTION. This is definitely and completely insane reflection of how pathetic and harrowing the present status of the youth in our country today.

According to the news, when the organizers announce the date on the release of selling of the ticket for the concert of One Direction on MOA Grounds at Pasay, thousands of fans flocked at the ticket booth just to grab a VIP ticket of the concert. They even stayed and spent the whole night their bringing with them sleeping mat and pillow together with their EVER SUPPORTIVE PARENTS whom I don’t know what is going in their mind; if they really have.

 In addition to my freak out reaction and annotation is the price of the VIP ticket and the date when will the concert be done, which is NEXT YEAR on March. Imagine, one VIP ticket cost seventeen thousand nine-hundred fifty pesos (P17,950)! As in WOW! I know you will react on me by saying, who cares if we bought a VIP ticket if we AFFORD to have one? All right, you’re the rich kid now because you can afford to grab one but more than the price and the drama the fans PLUS their parent displayed on the media which is telecast all over the archipelago plus other parts of the world, it such a DISMAY and CONSTERNATION.

I made comment about this simply because I am concern and feel heartbroken about the youth today. Since I was from the committee on participation from the 10^th NYP back then, one of the lectures that were given to us was about the civic engagement of the youth today to different socio, political and economic issues our country is now facing. I asked our resource speaker about the range of youth participation today on a scale of 1-10, one as the lowest and ten as the highest, he answered back me of six as the range. No wonder we have a very poor range. There may be a lot of factors to consider for this (which is a good research topic to conduct) but why don’t we stand up and speak out of it instead of taking for granted. Well, to my very best that is why I am now pounding the keyboard.

To all the One Direction fans out there specially those VIP ticket holders plus your parent who hundred percent support you or if I say it more CORRECT, SPOILED you to your WANTS, allow me to impose this questions; is it the same spirit you convey and show to our fellow Filipino people in Tacloban who was greatly devastated by Typhoon Yolanda? I am certainly sure that many wants to know also how much do you donate to the victims of Yolanda to any charity or relief efforts by the government and non- government organizations?

Come to think and contemplate about that very simple question. I know many of us especially to all parents out there since you are the one who is greatly affected by this: did you react the same way and make ostentatious remarks in front of the television when many schools declare increase in tuition fee? I bet you it’s a NO. I don’t want to make bad remarks to all the very supportive parents out there but I assume others even seek the help of Bumbay just to lend money for 5-6 and spend it to a one day concert who don’t even care to you during the day of the concert. HAHAHA

Again, I don’t want to feel bad anyone and just to make myself clear, I am just making manifestation on the merits of the youth today simply because I feel perturb and anxious. This I guess is the best way I can convey my feelings and loved for our youth who are the prime movers of our society. Wake up young men and women of this present generation. There is more to do and to act for our society. I know for sure that we share the common goal of common good for the welfare of everyone. We have the strength, the vigor and the synergy to make something on the call for action.

Currently we belong to the third world developing countries in the world. To be dubbed as DEVELOPING country is good to hear but in reality it’s not since we are a DEVELOPED country before. It is in our hand now the ready to take-off Philippines and emerge AGAIN as one of the TIGER COUNTRY OF ASIA.

There’s more to do of your wise my dear. There’s more worth SPENDING to P 17,950 for your self- amelioration, refinement and advancement even to OTHERS out there. Come to ponder about my points. You deserve more than what you are showing to them. To be an avid fan has no problem but please seek every action for its limitation. I know your eyebrows will raise and run 360 degree to me but it’s just my say that I am entitled to enjoy and express. After all, Jesus did not die on the cross because he is very sweet. 

Spitz Nevus Excision

Last March 5 is the natal day of one of my good friend Levie Salazar. I’m about to attend his birthday blast celebration by evening at his house when John and Gian fetch me to join and went straight to the party. While riding the jeepney, Gian made continues remarks on the pimple like thing on my face near the eyes. To be exact it’s at the zygomatic zone (I’ve heard it from the doctors :D). Though I know he’s just joking, I’m a little bit annoyed by him since he’s constantly teasing and making fun of it saying: “Nay, Aida na yan!.” Point of Information, “Aida” is the jargon language used by gays which means AIDS. Of course, I condemn what he’s saying to me because it’s another kind of story far different from what I have.

Then at the party, the “accessory thing” on my face becomes the topic AGAIN. This time, I feel the sincere love and extension of their desire for me to look for a doctor and check what it is. Finally after the long contemplation I’ve made, I am now determined to consult doctor’s specifically Dermatologist.

Just a quick historical background to the “accessory thing” on my face, I first notice it last year, 2013, somewhere in November but it doesn’t bother me after all because I thought that it is just a normal pimple that sprout out the epidermal layer of my skin. Days and months passed by but it’s getting bigger instead of becoming smaller since I am having self medication using Calmoceptin (try it, in just one day your pimple will be erase:))

Going back, last March 31 after my pre advising from the college, I called up another friend of mine, Rowel, who prepares to be called as Margaux, to accompany me to Ospital ng Maynila for consultation at the Dermatology Department. When I made a glimpse to the doctor’s room, I admit and declare it that yes, I am at the dermatology section of the hospital since all of the doctors have good and fair skin :D. After about an hour of waiting to be called by the doctor, because there is a line, intern medicine students from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila made the first stage of my check up by checking my chief complaint and a short historical background to my concern. I was just waiting for the resident doctor to call my attention and have the report of the intern medicine student to the doctor. Well, as for me, the intern did a good presentation to the doctor. By the way, it’s Dra. Kathleen Uy, first resident doctor, who handled my cased first.

I waited again for a couple of minute to have the second opinion of another doctor. This time I was given to Dr. Domingo, third resident doctor. Well, the two doctors cannot give me an affirmation to what is in my face so for the third time I was forwarded again to the chief resident doctor of the dermatology section. By this time, I must commend her (I forgot her name) because she deserved the post as CHIEF RESIDENT doctor as the answer to my query has been supported. I am speaking from my experience with them but I do not know what is really happening inside the room since I am always out; but of course I give good credit to all doctors who handled me because at the end of the consultation, my apprehension were all well answered and a great relief as Dra. Uy enlighten me of what is really on my face.

Well, my dear readers, it’s a SPITZ NEVUS. Nevus on a lay man’s term is a mole. According to my readings from aad.org, Spitz Nevus is often pink, raised, and dome-shaped. It also can have different colors in it such as red, black, and brown. Most Spitz nevi appear on the skin during the first 20 years of life. Spitz nevi also develop in adults. My nevus was kind a reddish one.

As far as I can remember, Dra. Uy said that it’s normal and nothing to worry about since nevus may develop to us even we are aged. More than anything else, what really gives me a great relief is when Dr. Domingo said that it’s benign and not cancerous. They asked me if I wanted my nevus to be excise and yes I am decided to have it excise. I was referred to another department which is the Ears, Nose and Throat (ENT) department for the reason that they are not performing excisions which are near the eyes.

And so I went to the OPD to look for the ENT to schedule my intention for excision but unfortunately the department is unavailable already since it was around 4 o’clock by that time so I had to come back by tomorrow. I don’t know the hell why I did not come back to schedule my excision the next day at the ENT. Maybe a good alibi for not coming is having the affirmation from the doctor that it is benign and normal thing for every human person like me :D. Until days passed by and regret the thing about my nevus for another reason of excuse that I have to attend a summer class.

Finally, my summer class has ended and by this time I am undaunted and indefatigable to have the excision process for my nevus. Last May 21, I went to have my check up and schedule again at the hospital with Jayd (famously known as Khali P. & dubbed as Best Stylist of the Year 2013). To my surprise, the tittle-tattle about the payment system at the Ospital ng Maynila which is a PUBLIC hospital is undoubtedly TRUE! Whether I like it or not, I have no choice but to comply with the NEW POLICY. Just in when I was at the window of the cashier, I asked to myself, how about the other Manileno who cannot pay the due payment for the purpose of getting access to health benefits which should be enjoyed accordingly? Okey, it’s just one hundred pesos (P100) for the consultation fee but how about those who REALLY CANNOT comply? Well, this is another story to tell. (I hope I can write about it #hopia)

Going back, the same story goes on at the ENT clinic since an intern medicine student from PLM gives my initial check up. Since I am at the ENT clinic, my ears, nose and throat should be examine also though my concern to them is the excision only of my nevus. Upon the check up session, the intern medicine student, whom I love so much for her concern to me, ascertain that my throat is suffering from SO MUCH swelling; which in reality is very true. According to her and the doctors, it’s in grade four already and should immediately seek medical assistance by major surgical removal. At that point, I am just WOW! As in dumbstruck and tongue-tied when all the doctors urge me to have the operation. At that point they wanted an immediate answer from me but I just smiled and will give them a feedback when I come back.

Yesterday, May 23, is the scheduled excision of my nevus and going to the answer with regards my throat; I am looking forward for the surgical removal on sem break. My fingers are cross as early as now because I’m really nervous about it but I need to have it before worse comes to worst.

The nurse Sir June (I guess) assist me at the Minor OR room but first give me prescription on the things to be used for the operation. Well, such a relief I feel when he advise me to buy all the stuffs at the cooperative of the hospital and not to go away anymore. To my dismay, one thing is not available at the coop which is the lidocaine with epinephrine. So I decided to go straight at Mercury Drug Store at Harrison Plaza but it is not available also. They have available lidocaine and epinephrine but only plain. I don’t want to go back the hospital without ALL the things prescribed to me so I go straight to another branch of Mercury Drug Store at Padre Faura but the same answer I received from the pharmacist. My intention is very high so I went to Robinson Mall to check the Mercury Drug Store but its only 9:30 in the morning so the mall is still close. This time I have no choice but to go the hospital bringing only with me the available things I bought at the coop. Yes! The same story like mine was narrated by those who will have the operation yesterday. No choice but the doctors who will perform the operation will provide the lidocaine with epinephrine.

The nurse then gives me my operation gown and tells me to remove my shoes in exchange for slippers at the rack. At that moment, my heart beat is getting faster and I am experiencing a numb hand. Undoubtedly and incontrovertibly I am on a state of NERVOUSNESS! What more to do than panicking is of course I prayed and asked for God’s guidance to me and to the doctors who will perform the operation.

Everything is set including me because I was lying at the operation bed for around five minutes before the operation proper. While waiting, one of the doctors approached me and briefs me about what could be the possible effect after the excision. Guess what, there is a 1% chance for those who are performing excision near the eyes to paralyze. And with that words from the doctor I just said: “hala Dok!.” Well the good part of the story, in their career in performing excision near the eyes, they haven’t encountered such dilemmas yet which he take notes that those cases were according to the medical books. Such a relief!

Its excision time now with Dra. Janina Karla Advincula and Dra. Karen Ito. I must commend them both for executing well the operation since I don’t feel any pain and disgust all throughout the operation period. For about less than fifteen minutes or so, the operation is over and unquestionably a SUCCESS on their part and on my part also.

The nevus excise in my face will be subjected to biopsy and I will come back again to the hospital after a week for the follow up with regards to the development on the healing process of the wound. As I leave the premise of the hospital I want to shout for joy and affirmation that at last I am free from the “accessory thing” in my face. My wariness and incertitude after the successful excision is the scar it will leave on my face ... how about that Doc, do we have a remedy? Laugh. HAHA :D

On red circle: spitz nevus

Last photo taken before the excision of Spitz Nevus ... SMILE :D

10th National Youth Parliament: My Roller Coaster Experience

After many months have passed, after a long contemplating stage, finally I am writing my very first article for my blog (YEHEY!!). Since the latest happening that I held on was participating the 10^th National Youth Parliament, I’ve decided to make it my very first article.

On year 2011, I’ve tried my luck in applying to one of the National Youth Commission (NYC) program which is the JENESYS. Unfortunately, I was not able to be on the list of the very lucky around less than a hundred youth leaders for an exchange program at Japan. Maybe it was not my time for such program from NYC back then until I applied for the second time on another program offered by the NYC which is the 10^th National Youth Parliament.

Thanks God to the social media specifically the Facebook for allowing me to be informed of this program by the NYC. The moment I saw the page of the 10^th NYP, I am really eager to apply for this program and trying my luck for the second time around.  Who knows, I’ll be lucky by this time. It was April 15, 2014 when I received a phone call from Commissioner Kit Cruz who personally informs me that I was accepted to the 10^th NYP. By that moment, I don’t know what to say more than “thank you” to Comm. Kit and say “see you po.” I really felt like I was in cloud nine that afternoon because of the very good news.  And yes, my aspirations to be included in the roll of around two hundred (200) youth leaders all over the archipelago of the Philippines came into reality. From about eight hundred (800) who try to be one of those two hundred participants, I am really honored and privileged to be as one of the PARLIAMENTARIANS.

First of all, congratulations to the organizing committee of the NYC for bringing up the 10^th NYP possible. It is not an easy job to screen all the application forms and video resume of the aspiring participants and coming up in the end a well distributed number of delegates from the different regions (regions I-XVIII, CAR, ARMM, NCR) and sectoral representatives all over the country. I know that many sleepless nights were encountered by the organizers and with that I say MABUHAY kayo!

Finally, May 15, 2014 has arrived and the 24 hours in a row to count is starting to passed by. It was around 8:45 since I’ve touched down the very historical Manila Grand Opera Hotel located at Sta. Cruz, Manila. Upon entering the hotel, there is a marker stating the hotel as the location of the inauguration of the members of the First Philippine Assembly on October 16, 1907. The very hotel was the founding place also for the Philippine legislative body. Imagine, it’s like a come back to the glimpse of the past.

As I enter the hotel, NYP organizers welcome me very warmly. Waiting for the elevator to go down, I made a short talk and exchange of conversation to the organizers and giving their words of good luck to me. At that moment, I am really enthralled. Ting, the elevator is ready to catch me with another participant from Leyte. Sessions were all held at the Ambassador Hall. A glimpse from the elevator door of 8^th floor to the ambassador hall, I can see many people already having chit chat. But before anything else, I registered first, received my kit and my room key on room 438. Before going to the room to fix my things, I made a short talk and a coffee with other parliamentarians who are taking their breakfast first. From that moment, I want to shout for joy and amazement because of the diversity we have in the hall. I am supplanted in a very different kind of universe which I wish to be for eternity because I can envision a better Philippines with all this young men and women.

And yes, I am representing Ilocos Sur from Region I so I have to meet the other Ilocano delegates. I am very proud to meet them. Their charisma and energy is of paramount amount that makes me go beyond the level they are emancipating.

My ID as delegate from Region I representing Ilocos Sur. 

Who could be more privileged than us when the first day of the 10^th National Youth Parliament was grace by two distinguished honorable men, Sen. Chiz Escudero and Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno. Indeed, Sen. Chiz is a very witty person whom I idolize so much for becoming true to his words and actions. Instead of delivering a speech to us, he’d rather prepare to throw questions to him whether political or showbiz. How bubbly he is, isn’t? On a lighter note, Sen. Chiz answering about his lovelife: "It will not be a political event. Dahil baka yung mga iimbitahan kong politiko nakakulong na." HAHAHA

Sen. Chiz bravely answering all the questions whether political or showbiz at the side of the podium.

While listening to the lecture of Prof. Alex de Guzman, on my side was a fine lady whom I can really envision that she will be the elected as the presiding president of the 10^th National Youth Parliament as she shares to me that she run for the post. She is Farah Ghodsinia. Well, it’s not a new thing for many to do muti-tasking as in listening while talking to each other :D. Definitely it was a great exchange of conversation and knowing her even more. But what really makes me love her even more are the values that was compacted to her personality that in my entire nineteen years of existence in this weary world, it is my first time to encounter such humbleness, such grace and such prudence that defines the true beauty and essence of a human person. I may sound over rated but it is a FACT! She executes well the humane character every person must possess in a very wavy pacific ocean of plenary session at the Marble Hall. Mabuhay siya! I hope that our roads may cross again and share to me all the values she had because I need it badly, as in. HAHAHAHA :p

Thumbs up for Madame President Farah.

On a lighter note again, it was now that I will finally meet my co- honorable delegates of the participation committee which Comm. Perci tagged as the house of Gryffindor during his lecture on Policy Cycle. Knowing them virtually through the post- discussion on our FB page, finally I can see them in flesh, in a total human being. And yes, they are all humans because they exhibit great personality and intellectual capacity making them to the leading house of Hogwarts, the Gryffindor or more correct to say the COMMIITTEE ON PARTCIPATION. All of us from the committee has own advocacy, has own story to tell and has own something worthy to share. But in the end of the day, in the end of every session, in the end of every fiery debate and discussion; we come as one to produce the best resolution we can have to address the concerns of the youth participation today. I am very flattered and humbled enough to meet these intelligible and fathomable young minds from the different part of the Philippines. A day is not enough to speak of how glad and thankful I am to meet you somewhere in my life. Mabuhay kayong lahat!!

Proud and Loud to be from Gryffindor, the COMMITTEE ON PARTICIPATION

COMMITTEE ON PARTICIPATION at the historical National Museum.

The other side of my co-committee member as in PARTYcipation. 

In addition, the success of the Committee on Participation will not be possible without the leadership of Sir Claide Kenneth Saludar. He manifested well knowledge since the post- discussion on FB and organized the way of facilitating the committee plane into its success and cheers to victorious landing for a productive resolution that we’ve come up from the committee level up to the plenary session. Mabuhay ka po inay :D

Best facilitator: Claide Kenneth Saludar

Second day was officially grace by the State of the Youth Address from no other than the NYC Chairman Leon Flores III. He’s address was so inspiring that makes me realized the full potential youth sector can make for the difference we are all waiting for our country. A part of his address that makes me in goose bumps was when he state “I apologize.” On behalf of around half the total population of our country, the youth, he asked for an apology. This makes me stop from what I am doing and pause for a while to contemplate the present status of the youth nowadays. Evidently, there are a lot of things to be sorry for about the actions of the youth today. But of course, like all of us who fervently believe and hope that someday there will be a genuine reformation to the system we have; that a great and well breed culture can be invested and will put the name of the Philippines into international pedestal. Remarkably, my hopes are shaken and awaken by Chairman Leon’s address. I will hold unto it, I will fight unto it and I will act unto it. Sharing below is our selfie photo taken during the solidarity night Of Asian Youth Council held at Diamond Hotel.

One of the highlight of our day two is the 2014 HIV/AIDS International Candlelight Memorial Ceremony at Liwasang Bonifacio, Lawton, Manila in front of the Post Office. The event was hosted by the very beautiful Miss Philippines- Air 2014. Her sweet voice is very melodic and suits well the occasion proper in commemorating the HIV/ AIDS victim. On behalf of many who commemorate the death of HIV/ AIDS victim internationally, my prayers for eternal repose are with them. Truly, from the discussion presented to us by the Philippine National AIDS Council, the figures are alarming and should be a wakeup call for many of us who subject their self to an unhealthy and unprotected sexual intercourse. This is something to call for an action. A call that all of us are engage with and should be aware on it. If not, at this point in time, we must be threatened because it’s going to be pandemic. As I light the little candle for the victims of HIV/ AIDS, my hopes are very high that the government in collaboration with the Filipino people will be enlightened to fight and eradicate HIV/ AIDS before it becomes an outbreak. May the light of the candle continue to burn in flame for a healthy and zero- free HIV/ Aids Filipino society.

A good shot and view of the Post Office at Lawton, Manila. 

Two beauty queen join in one picture :) ... with Ms. Air Philippines-2014

A candle of hope for all the victims of HIV and AIDS be with you.

Selfie with the very humble Asec. Tayag.

Going back to the hotel riding the bus, there is an unexplainable atmosphere of laughter and hilarity among my co- committee that bonds us together even more and create a friendly atmosphere and camaraderie. At that point, I am pretty much sure that more than meeting a friend, I’ve met a new brothers and sisters who share a common points of view and go- getting for a better society. And of course, my 10^th NYP story will not be complete without mentioning my beki buddy all throughout the 4 days session. He has more than what you will expect to him. He is a very sound and scrutable person. One of which I will treasure a lot and look forward to meet in the future. With great pride I share to you the picture of mine and no other than Hansel Burce from Region V, Albay City.

The sun is up again and we’re nearing to the end of the 10^th NYP. On the third day, I wear with me my blue long sleeves and a black and white striated necktie for the ceremonial oath-taking and pinning of parliaments at the very historical National Museum. Just a point of information, the very place where we stand and took our oath at the front steps of the National Museum is where Manuel L. Quezon was sworn in as President of the Commonwealth. Truly, this 10^th NYP is a milestone since most of the venue for our activity played huge roles in our nation’s history. That very moment, that very day, we are declared not only a delegate but officially a parliamentarian of the 10^th National Youth Parliament.

#OOTD HAHAHA :D

Officially a Parliamentarian of the 10th National Youth Parliament.

As an officially declared parliamentarians, it is also today that we will act as parliamentarians to deliberate eight (8) resolution of which are from the four standing committee. Sharing to you my dear readers are the agenda for the day and of course the title of the eight resolutions to be subjected into approval by the body of more than two hundred parliamentarians.

Agenda for the day.

Upon the declaration of Madame President Farah to call to order, the opening was not that good. At first, I expect such dramas, commotions and objections from the body since it is a normal scenario for every parliamentary body. A lot of motions were raised, points of information were given, and points of order were subjected to critical understanding on the rules of procedure and many more. In short, there was a little bit of tension that happens as the story goes on. Many times we need to suspend the session and have a recess for five minutes in words but becomes fifteen minutes and more in observance and in reality. But at that moment, when everybody is about to stumble, I say to myself, this is what you called “parliamentary.” I need to accept the drama I am now witnessing because it is what you called REALITY. On another side of the coin, I am sure that we are bound as we enter the premise and the door hall of the great Marble Hall, the hall were we have the plenary session, of the principle that we must be as one to help one another committee in deliberating the resolutions we have per committee in order to make it more comprehensive and scholarly done in order to further lobby and move for recommendation to the proper office of the government. At the end, I must declare it; I am confronted with true graspable young people since we all realized our goals then. Such a relief for the body when the presiding officer declares each resolution as approved.  With great pride, the 10^th National Youth Parliament come up with 8 resolutions APPROVED!!! Applause, applause, applause – like what lady gaga said :D

The Great Marble Hall at National Museum. 

After the conflagrant Plenary Session at the Marble Hall, we are ready to bound and meet our ASEAN friends at the Diamond Hotel for the Solidarity Night with SMILE on our faces. One of the ASEAN Youth Council Delegate I’ve talked with was Paul from Thailand who is working on a big company at Bangkok. I asked him of his favorite food and no wonder, the Adobo is still the number one loved Filipino dish among our foreign friends. I am glad and happy with the remarks and impression he shared to me during our conversation about his stay here in the Philippines. He gives me the confident to be more proud of what Philippines can offer to the world. Before we end our conversation, we share each other’s camera a selfie photo. 

Asian Youth Council 2014 at Diamond Hotel.

Selfie photo with Paul, an AYC Delegate from Thailand.

The night is getting more profound but we will not end it without singing and dancing at the very function hall of the diamond hotel. Lines are formed like a train while dancing to the beat of the band and become wilder when many of my co-committee members take the center stage to lead the dancing to be followed by the mob. It’s really party time as if no one can stop our enjoyment for about an hour dancing and singing to the strobe light. Everybody is game to hit the floor and celebrate the tender years of our youth even the high, reputable and respectable chairman and commissioners of the National Youth Commission are game to cavort the floor. Indeed, a fun-filled night. But of course, we need to confront reality of going back to Manila Grand Opera Hotel again as Comm. Perci stop the music of the night. Quoting him “Sorry, we need to stop this and go back to hotel. Feeling ko Principal ako na nagpapatigil ng JS.” Well Comm. Perci it’s true :p but I still love you for that :) hehe.

Back to hotel, many extend the party at the pool and enjoy the night drinking. It was a great night of drinking session with Justin, Kuya Jodel and Kuya Randel; also a long night of conversation with girls about many things under the moon. And so I call it a day around three o’clock and the time for me to hit the bed in order to get rest for the last day. Definitely, it was a roller coaster day!

Finally, the last part of the story is about to conclude. We are now on the last day of the 10^th National Youth Parliament. Before I go to the dramatic portion of the day, let me first share with you our distinguished guest of honor for the closing ceremony none other than the Chairman of the Senate Committee on youth, the champion to the Filipino youth, Sen. Bam Aquino together with incoming Commissioners and Chairman Tingson, Comm. Perci Cendana, Comm. Dingdong Dantes, Comm. Saavedra, the 10^th NYP head organizer Comm. Kit, out-going Chairman Leon Flores III and many more.

Region I delegates with our distinguished guest of Honor Sen. Aquino and the incoming and outgoing commissioner of NYC.

The good Senator Bam Aquino did away with his prepared speech but instead focused on how to push each approved resolution of the 10^th NYP. How magnificent isn’t? At least now we have the assurance that somebody will take over and take in charge of all the efforts we have to come into reality and not just in mere printed paper. This is something for a big deep breath and sighs of happiness. Of course I will not let this opportunity to pass out with no picture taken with the good senator. Smile :)

Champion of the Filipino Youth, Sen. Bam Aquino

So as to the new Commissioner-at-Large Dingdong Dantes who is very manly and classy person of his own. Give me my camera and let’s have a selfie photo commissioner. Laugh :D

Comm. Dingdong and Marian? WAHHHH

At this juncture, Comm. Perci introduces the traditional exchange of candle but the candle we are going to use this time is a birthday candle. This for me is one of the memorable part of the four days sessions we have. This is the time of our life. The time for us to roam around and exchange our candles to whom we would like to extend our deepest gratitude and sincerest love of not just meeting them for four days but for somewhat entering and touching our hearts and becoming part to our lives. At that point, I am very thankful for the gifts of learning, more so the new people i have allowed to enter and touch my life. I asked to myself then, isn't what life is all about? The laughter we share, the exchange of stories and the company of friends I will treasure forever.

And that ends for me the 10th National Youth Parliament since I did not come anymore at the City Tour.

All good things must come into an end but the memories still remain. The 10th NYP may reach its conclusion on that day but I believe that what is ahead of us is the true essence of the training that we have undertaken. The world awaits us for more to look forward and work on. Reality in a bit is there to us waiting to fulfill the duty we have sworn over the very historical footsteps of the National Museum. There are a lot of realizations I have gained over the past four days. Working with very active, hyper and creative minds of young talented Filipino youth all over the country, I can envision a bolder and stronger Philippines as soon to be an emerging tiger country of Asia. The shared vision we have from the NYP which served as a training ground for sure, of the future leaders and policy makers, is to challenge the status quo through civic and political engagement of the youth. The youth as the prime movers of nation building must lead the path to destroy the vicious cycle of dirty politics in the Philippines. Let us create a culture of servant leadership, integrity and shared destiny with affirmation that SOON we can have a better country, we can bring back the glorious days of the Philippines.

Mabuhay ang 10th National Youth Parliament, Mabuhay ang National Youth Commission, Mabuhay ang Kabataang Pilipino! Cheers to that!

Smile and cheers for the emerging Philippines!