Philippine Diary - English Teacher Online - Online School for ESL Student

It's hotter. It's darker here in the Philippines.

After the capital of the Philippines-Manila was devastated by typhoons Ondoy and Peping late last year, people got nervous when it rained, many got phobia. No one could blame the Filipinos, because right before our very eyes, we witnessed homes turned into debris, cars floating like toys, plants and animals drifted away and families gradually losing strength of holding each others' hand.. I ,even caught myself sometimes, toying the idea of climbing up the Mango tree in front of my house in case water suddenly rose up.

But gone are those days.
Has Philippines' weather turned perfect lately? NO. Each day, I feel I am melting.

Ironically, the Philippines is now struggling against serious El Nino. Reservoirs are drying up which are lifelines of hydroelectric plants. Days are hotter. Nights are darker. Water containers are in queue, next to their owners who are tiresomely standing, hoping and waiting for their turn. Power interruption has been rotated in small towns and even in big cities of Manila. The frequent brownouts make Philippines more pathetic and less progressive even if candles and power generators' sales have soared high recently. Not in any way will it help push the economy up.
My place like any other places has been officially declared as being in “a state of calamity”. A term equal to the word disaster. It's really very hot these days, everyone is sweating, fields are cracking and plants are drying. Last night was a perfect disaster, I was in the middle of a class, when my world was painted black, I was left speechless not being able to continue the fun time with my student online. It was totally dark and quite, except for the buzzing mosquitoes that surrounded me(at least I was not alone). Then followed the dark and warmer temperature, then the text messages of colleagues informing me, they just have ended their class and it's brownout. Disaster... No, I am not complaining. I love my work and my country, but I have to be honest. Life recently has twisted into the so called miserable.

But no matter how miserable, life goes on. No matter how complicated, one should strive hard to make one's living a little less difficult. See ray of hope even from a candle light.

by Mylene 02/12/2010

Keeping up with our fast-paced lifestyle can sometimes drive us over the edge. Human as we all are, we need to pause at times.

Stop. Breathe. Relax.

And what better way to do just that than to retreat from the hustle and bustle of our urban living. A change of scenery would surely do the trick in achieving that much needed repose.

With that thought in mind, a trip to a countryside would be a fantastic getaway. As opposed to the hectic routine in the city, life in the country is pretty much laid-back: fresh, crisp air, newly picked fruits and vegetables, tranquil surrounding, and friendlier atmosphere. These are the very definition of a perfect sanctuary.

Speaking about the country, Malaybalay, in my opinion, is an ideal hideaway. Situated at the heart of Bukidnon's mountainous terrain, it can easily be reached by taking a two-hour bus ride from Cagayan de Oro City.

Historically, the town was called "Walay Balay", which literally means "no house". However, when the Spaniards asked the natives the name of the town, they pronounced it as "Malaybalay" instead of "Walay Balay". Hence, its current name.

Dubbed as the "City in the Forest", Malaybalay has managed to keep its laid-back atmosphere intact since its inauguration in 1998. The city is hard to miss. With its surroundings deck with pine trees, it's a lot like Baguio in the South: cool, quiet, peaceful, and slow.

One of the come-ons for tourists is the Kaamulan Festival. It's a festival like no other as it's the only authentic ethnic festival in the country. The celebration starts mid-February and ends on March 10 every year. The festivity is highlighted by street dancing performances from real natives. But other activities such as the rodeo, horse show, and motor-cross mustn't be disregarded as they also draw a significant number of spectators. On top of that, the agro-trade fair at the Capitol Grounds, featuring exotic plants and delectable delicacies which are either produced locally or from neighboring towns, is also a must-see.

And because Malaybalay lies on a rich agricultural land, visitors could also take a bite of its freshest harvests which are abundant all year round. Exotic fruits such as the odiferous, spiky Durian, famed as Southeast Asia's "King of Fruit", can be bought at a very reasonable price. Thus, it's quite easy to indulge in your fruit craving without ever breaking your bank.

Another crowd-drawer, especially for Christians, is the "Monastery of the Transfiguration". After trekking the long, winding road, the sight of a pyramid shaped chapel erected on top of a hill was truly breathtaking. And as it was Sunday when we went there, we were fortunate to hear mass.

The monastery is run by the Benedictine Monks who lead a life of prayer, silence, and simplicity. But these aren't the only things that the monks are famed for. Aside from praying, they also devote a great value of their time farming rice, corn, peanuts, soya beans, and coffee. And it is here at the monastery where the famous "Monk's Blend Coffee" is produced.

As the two-day visit came to an end, my countryside hiatus was absolutely refreshing. It wasn't only the pine-wooded hills of the city that I took so much delight in, but all the facets of Malaybalay that made it so unique: the gorgeous natural sites, cool climate, accommodating locals, and most of all the simple and calm life.

Leaving the city with a heavy heart, I can honestly say that my two-day vacation was well-spent. And I know that I'll come back to this little town someday, somehow. For sooner or later, I'll need another break. I am human after all. But for now, I'll embrace reality with a big smile knowing that I had once stopped by and unwind at this scenic and humble town.

by nash 03/27/2010

Christmas season in the Philippines is always a festive occasion. The Christmas season in the country normally begins after the All Saints Day and All Souls Day celebration during the 1st and 2nd of November respectively. As early as November Christmas trees are typically put up and decorated in every home. Since pine trees are not common in the country, Filipinos would normally buy plastic pine trees and adorn them with ornaments such as balls, stars, flowers, and lights. The Nativity scene or “Belen”, depicting the birth of Jesus Christ, is also one of the focal points in any Filipino home during Christmas. Christmas lanterns or “parols” are hung in patios and verandas, symbolizing the star which guided the three kings into finding the infant Jesus in Bethlehem.

Another unique feature of Christmas in the Philippines is the “Simbang Gambi”. This tradition basically consists of nine consecutive masses celebrated at early dawn, usually at 4:00 am to 5:00 am. This series of consecutive masses begins in the 16th of December and ends on the 24th of the same month, during the Christmas Eve. According to the patrons of the “Simbang Gabi”, those who complete every single one of the nine consecutive masses will have their respective Christmas wishes granted.

The Christmas season in the Philippines is also usually celebrated through many parties, reunions, and get-togethers. All throughout the month of December, old friends meet up to give each other gifts, officemates, and colleagues hold parties to relax and have fun, and family members and relatives meet up for annual reunions. Even students take the time to dress up for their Christmas parties at school. Essentially, the month of December is the month of parties and reunions for most Filipinos.

If western traditions tend to celebrate Christmas through a Christmas day lunch or dinner on the 25th of December, in the Philippines, Christmas is celebrated on the 24th or the eve of Christmas Day. Families hear mass together on the evening of the 24th in preparation of the midnight dinner and celebration.

The midnight dinner is called the “Noche Buena”, where family and friends gather together over a feast of ham, pit roast pig or lechon, desserts, and other delicious fares. Once midnight strikes, dinner is usually served, gifts are exchanged and opened, and fireworks are lighted to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Friends and family visit each other’s homes and relatives meet up again to greet each other and dine together.

Filipinos hold the highest importance for families and celebrations, and the Christmas season is no exception. The celebration normally lasts all throughout the New Year, when families gather on New Year’s Eve again to welcome another fulfilling, exciting, and blessed year.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and A PROMISING NEW YEAR ahead to one and all!

by nash 12/23/2009

Nestled near the heart of the Philippine archipelago, Bohol is undeniably one of the most fascinating island to visit amongst the country's 1,107 islands. Surrounded with shimmering crystal blue-green water, one couldn't help but simply be mesmerized by its splendor.

Experience wise, I somehow have a love-hate relationship with this island. Years back, a very enticing job opportunity led my feet to Bohol. It was a fleeting work experience, though, as I couldn't swallow how my bosses, who were foreigners at that, were milking without shame the gullible employees, whom I was supervising at that time.

But I digress, within the span of my stay, I never got the chance to explore the depth of Bohol's beautiful landscape and spellbinding sceneries as my work would always get in the way. And so when a good friend prompted an invitation, or was it I who masterminded such visit, I jumped right at the opportunity.

At the early break of dawn with eyes still half-closed, we dragged our sleepyheads to the port to catch the first trip to Tagbilaran City, the main town of Bohol. And as it is adjacent to mainland Cebu, we effortlessly reached it after a two-hour-breezy-ferry ride. As soon as we embarked, we wasted no time and started off with our countryside sightseeing.

Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills. The 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills are one of its greatest treasures. During dry season, they actually turned brown and that's how the name was derived. Getting a good view of these wonderful formations was truly riveting.

Aside from the Chocolate Hills, it's impossible to discount Bohol's countless inland attractions.

We never passed the chance to get a good glimpse of Bohol's tarsier, the world's smallest primate. Weighing less than 150 grams, it's smaller than a grown-up's average palm. Tarsier is actually a nocturnal animal. If left in its natural habitat, it can live up to twenty years. This tiny creature is notable for its owl-like eyes which are bigger than its brain.

Another equally interesting experience while touring Bohol was the Loboc River Cruise. After nearly half a day of site hopping, what better way to enjoy our sumptuous lunch than to board a floating restaurant. With the scent of fresh air and non-stop rendition of heart-warming melodies while we cruised along the quaint Loboc River, dining had never been so surreal.

And to make our trip somewhat adventure-like, we dropped by Sevilla's Hanging Bridge, paid "Prony", a 26 feet python, a visit, and had a little exploration in one of the many caves in Bohol, Hinagdanan Cave in Dauis.

I must admit getting near the humongous snake almost gave me a heart attack. I'm never fond of snakes, neither big nor small. They totally give me the creeps. But for a sucker of anything adrenaline-inducing thrills, I gathered all my guts and got as close as I could to Prony.

And as if our day tour wasn't enough, the view of the sandy white beach and crystal blue-green water that seem to glisten under the sun's rays in Panglao rendered me speechless. No wonder locals and foreigners alike crowd this beautiful paradise come rain or shine. I couldn't blame them as I myself was captivated by the sound of melodious waves and felt refreshed as the sea breeze lightly brushed against my skin. While taking a stroll along the powdery white beach, I was utterly appreciative how beautiful the world is on that side of the planet.

As a country girl at heart and a nature lover, I wouldn't mind settling in an island as marvelous as Bohol. Just imagine waking up with a mountain view, blanketed with the most exquisite greens, at the back of your house and from afar, while relaxing in your veranda, you can get a good glimpse of the glittering aquamarine water. Wouldn't it be perfect?

by nash 12/10/2009

Before couples could take the big plunge into a lifelong commitment, they have to surpass the first challenge in their union: WEDDING.

It may sound like an exaggeration. But really, it's not!

It's a common knowledge that aside from the arduous phase of planning such a momentous event the engaged twosome also needs to be heedful of the innumerable rituals that have long been interwoven in marriage ceremonies. In the Philippines' case, that is! Such traditions are actually the perfect manifestations of how superstitious Filipinos can be: from the trivial down to the most absurd practices, of which their significance somehow eludes me.

I could enumerate a gazillion of beliefs that've been meshed with wedding celebrations. But let's save ourselves the trouble and focus on the most common Filipino wedding practices or "pamahiin" which have somehow survived despite the modernity of our age.


1. Fitting of Bridal Gown is Forbidden.
How would the bride-to-be know if the gown fits her like a glove without having to try it on? A question I always throw at conservative kindred. But it is somehow believed that if the soon-to-be-bride does so the wedding might not push through at all.

Hmmm, might want to try this one when you get cold feet on the last minute and see if it really works.

2. Avoid Giving Sharp Objects as Wedding Presents.
Pointed objects such as knives symbolize break-up. I couldn't personally vouch the validity of this one. However, among the weddings I've attended, I haven't heard any guests presenting knives nor swords to the the newlyweds.

So just to be on the safe side, stick to the customary and practical wedding presents.

3. Lighted Candles Symbolize the Couple's Lives.
The candle, either that of the groom or bride, which goes off first is predicted to kick the bucket before his or her partner. Sounds silly?

I, for one, had witnessed how my mom vigorously made the sign of the cross fearing for the bride's life, who's my cousin. She watched in horror as the bride's candle was put out by a gust of wind at the instant it was lighted.

Well, just so you'd know, that very cousin of my mine is still alive and literally kicking her husband to bring home more bacons. Perhaps, my poor cousin-in-law must've been cursing under his breath every time he comes home when such omen will take its course.

4. The Groom Should Be First to Arrive at a Church.
This is to avoid bad luck in their marriage.

But if you ask me, the logical explanation is that men take less time to primp themselves up compared to women. Agree or disagree?

5. No Rendezvous for the Engaged Couple a Day Before Their Wedding.
For the die-hard of traditions, seeing each other a day before the wedding date is definitely a no-no for the soon-to-be married pair. This is again to avoid bad luck.

6. Stepping on Your Partner's Toe Means Domination.
For couples who love competition, gaining control is easy - just step on your groom or bride's toe. And voila!

Seriously, I don't believe in this. Besides, marriage is supposed to be a partnership not a rat race.

7. The Groom Should Never Sit In Front of His Bride During Reception.
The explanation is simple: the wife will have the advantage of henpecking her husband during their marriage. It's logical as one couldn't possibly nag someone if her back is on that person, right? But come to think of it, aren't most wives natural at nagging?

8. Breaking of Kitchen Wares.
This I suppose is a good omen. The act is believed to be a sign of good luck for the couple throughout their marriage.

Do this with lots of caution, though, or else you might end up with an empty dish rack.

9. Sukob - Siblings Marrying on the Same Year Means Bad Luck.
This belief, turned horror flick, is the grandmother of all bad omens. If siblings got married on the same year, it is likely that one of them will suffer while the other prospers or vice-versa.

10. Contrasting Interpretations of Rain.
Some people consider rain as a good sign while others think the opposite. Rain maybe seen as an indication of having lots of offspring. On the other hand, it may be considered as signal of a turbulent marriage.

I don't know about you but, good or bad, I definitely prefer a wedding on a sunny and sans cloud day.

So if you didn't want to be slapped with criticisms on your wedding day, you'd better follow these customs.

However, bear in mind that the success of one's marriage isn't measured by traditions, may it be rational or irrational. It all comes down to how much the couple love each other.

by nash 11/22/2009

When you feel burnt out, what do you do? Do you chill out in a club, indulge in your food craving, get yourself absorbed in a really good book, or perhaps head to the nearest cinema and randomly pick a movie for the sake of passing the time? Well, if you have an itchy feet like mine, in a good sense though, then you'll probably book yourself a flight and incessantly dream for the day when you'll be able to set your foot on an unfamiliar territory in the hope that'll entrance you to no end while unconsciously reviving your jaded self.

A recent trip to the Northwest regions of the Philippines didn't only create a new delight to the wanderlust in me, but also invigorated my worn out system. Although the nine-hour land trip was one tough ride and flatly uneventful, the scenery that greeted us, Kat, a handful of companions, and me, at the early break of dawn was beyond our imagination. It was MAJESTIC! Seeing centuries-old structures, cobblestone alleys, and horse-carriages called “kalesa”, we instantly thought we were reliving the past or with a dash of a little imagination we envisioned being in a place uprooted from a little corner of Europe and etched in this unsuspecting town of our beloved homeland.

The grandeur of Ilocos, though, isn't only limited to its age-old cathedrals, bell towers, streets, and lighthouse. Another boost for its tourism are the ancestral homes, which are strategically scattered and turned into a living museum, of famous and infamous persona in the country's recorded history - to mention a few, Pres. Elpidio Quirino, former Pres. Ferdinand Marcos, and Juan Luan, a world renowned painter. Unfortunately, as we were pressed for time, we visited only a few of them. And knowing that such dwellings were built at the time when even my late grandfather hadn't been conceived yet, it brought shivers to my spine. Setting my fears aside, I dared myself to do some exploration. In the end, I had zero regret because right after the tour my hungry cerebrum was already overflowing with information that I nearly considered giving up my career and become a historian :LOL: Realistically speaking, I was kept in awe the entire time, as what were once seen only in the boob tube and read in books were right before me. For real!

After a somewhat educational tour, we proceeded to a place where our physical stamina would be put to the test. It is surprising to note that Ilocos isn't only the place to be to get a dose of Philippine history, but also a playground for those who have a penchant for extreme sports. As a self-confessed dare-devil, the SAND DUNE ADVENTURE RIDE was a must-try sports during our trip. Going up and down the sandy hills inside a vehicle which was set to dive anytime in the “Devil's drop”, an 80 degrees dropping point, onlookers would undoubtedly think we're deliberately offering ourselves to the “Angel of Death”. But that wasn't exactly the case. The ride wasn't even close to a near-death experience. It was just PURE THRILL coupled with ear-breaking screams.

A side trip to La Union, the neighboring town of Ilocos, gave us the most coveted opportunity to try surfing. My lack of swimming skill, in spite that my zodiac sign carries the symbol of a fish, didn't stop my drive to try anything that could defy my fear. Oblivious to the scorching heat of the sun, plus with our let's-worry-about-the-burnt-skin-later attitude, we hit the beach and tried our best to stand on the board for a good few seconds. Fortunately, our non-sporty physique didn't disappoint us and we're able to experience how it is being a surfer even for a short while.

The last leg of our trip led us to the City of Pines - Baguio. With temperature that could drop as low as 7.5˚C, Baguio is indeed the best summer destination in the Philippines. One of the highlights of our visit was sleeping inside an “Ifugao's” hut at Tam-awan Village. I must say it wasn't the best accommodation one could ever imagine - try to visualize six people inside a tiny room which has an approximate measurement of 2x2 sqm – but the experience did give us a taste of how the indigenous people had once lived. And because Baguio is a place teeming with the freshest harvests, we didn't pass the chance to satisfy our yearning for good food. For a day, we disregarded our diet and gave in to Forest House's lip-smacking cuisine.

All in all, the trip to Northern tip of Luzon wasn't only remarkable, but unforgettable as well. For sure, the memories that we have of Ilocos, La Union, and Baguio will be treasured for the years to come.

by nash 09/20/2009

I love the rain. Yes, I do, for someone who lives in a country where almost all year round is freaking hot, I know you understand why I do. Natural coldness aside, books, pillows, naps and coffee are really beyond compare when heaven pours. I know I am not the only one who gets excited and thankful when summertime is over, there's the farmer who has anxiously waited to see growing plants with misty leaves, there's the thirsty flower who has earnestly begged to live longer and be more beautiful, and there's these street children who have fervently hoped to take shower and be freshened at least. How inspiring!

Recently however, rainy season has long overdue its contract to the extent of breaking the thin line between love and hate. It's raining too long that dancing in the rain is more of a punishment, making almost everyone's right foot, left as well.

In the Philippines, heavy rain is synonymous to brown-out - a term we use to describe power interruption in a certain area. And in this highly industrialized world, if there's no electricity, almost everything is down. When it's raining cats and dogs, working people look paralyzed – (that's the other side of me), street kids turn so pathetic wading flooded roads, farmers become pitiful looking at the fields drenched with unwanted irrigation.

This unpredictable and continuous downpour of heavenly water has painted sad faces and confused minds, has climate really changed?

2009/08/01 Mylene

How does your macaroni taste like? Well for me it's sweet. Yes you read it right. Sweet.
We Filipinos are sweet loving eaters. We love sweets! And when it comes to dessert. Sweet macaroni is our number one choice.

Sweet macaroni is always present on special occasions of our family and to other Filipino families as well, for us it is something that makes the celebration simple yet special and sweet. On birthdays and weddings, on Christmas and New years, and on anniversaries and parties, sweet macaroni makes the table colorful and appetizing.

Would you like to try something sweet at home?Easy. Prepare boiled macaroni, cheese cut into cubes, fruit cocktail, cream, mayonnaise, raisins and condensed milk. Mix cream, mayonnaise and condensed milk then add all other ingredients, pour them into a bowl of boiled macaroni. Chill for a few hours, then serve. Sweet macaroni, anyone!

2009/05/11 Mylene

March 28 was marked as the largest demonstration of public concern about climate change. “EARTH HOUR”, as they call it, was organized by WWF or World Wildlife Fund. The Earth Hour website says: “For the first time in history, people of all ages, nationalities, race and background have the opportunity to use their light switch as their vote – Switching off your lights is a vote for Earth, or leaving them on is a vote for global warming.”

With this earth hour campaign, people stand in different perspectives. Some said its too late others said it’s too little to make a change. I, myself is also standing in different corner, siting in different angle about this issue, sure switching off the light for a while without realizing the need to save energy is definitely nonsense. For me, the event was a wake up call for all of us to be more concern of the world we live in. It’s never too late.

I do try to save energy and I convince others to do so. Yes I’m doing it! In my own little wise way. For instance, I fold my clothes neatly so I don’t have to iron them, I open the door in the morning and afternoon than using the exhaust fan, I use one electric fan instead of two, and I turn off the computer when I don’t have to work rather than watching videos on YOUTUBE. Though concern for global warming just takes the second place, in this time of recession when thousands of people are jobless, wise people survive, and it’s wise enough to conserve energy. It’s worth it, we save ourselves and we save the earth.

2009/03/29 Mylene

Spring has come! I find myself dreaming again, sitting under the loveliest tree, enjoying the cold temperature, while pink petals are drifting away. The fleeting few weeks of Cherry blossom has always been one of the pushing factors why I want to visit Japan. The pure white and charming pink cherries have always been magical, even if my adjectives are just extracted from pictures, videos and stories from students. They are enough to mesmerize the very core of my system.

There are times though, when my wild imagination would suddenly freeze, especially when hay fever comes into the picture. I’m so afraid to get sick and find out I have allergy with this pollen grain. The symptoms are beyond my imagination. All I know is that, the feeling is indeed horrible.

I may not have visited Japan but for almost 3 years of teaching, I have become familiar with the paradoxical promises of spring- the amazing cherry blossom of white and pink, and uncomfortable sneezes and coughs brought by powder like pollen from Cedar trees. Even so, I still dream of the first promise, there’s always trade-off in life anyway.

2009/03/14 Mylene

My life has changed in more ways than one. As 2009 promises countless busy days I have been trying to ride well my balance beam. Family calls, friends meetings, career’s demand and self relaxation. The later is synonymous to watching Korean dramas of course only to my own definition. I am always in awe with those actresses, how well they rendered their lines ( it seems here I understand the language), how they carry themselves with those clothes that maybe a hundred times heavier than mine and most of all how in the world exist those faces so perfect.

Let’s admit that it’s common to see Korean actress with a perfect face, well shaped face and well proportioned body. Their angelic faces are made more fabulous with the advancement of Science and Technology in the process called Plastic surgery. Korea is one of those countries who make surgery popular around the globe. Its low currency rate has been doing fine in pitching neighboring countries to come over. For them, Japan is the perfect customer knowing Yen has been soaring high recently.

Japan is well known for loving the natural despite its success in the field of technology, but the high yen and low South Korean won give the story a relevance to Japan. Do you think strong yen induces more surgeries? It has been reported that many young Japanese women are currently looking forward to undergoing surgery in Korea. How about you? If you were given the resources big enough to spare for a plastic surgery, what part of your body you would like to change?

2009/03/03 Mylene

Sinulog Festival is the Philippines grandest festival of the year. It’s the most awaited, most distinguished and most colorful celebration of Cebu City where people from different islands gather together to be in unison with this annual festival. This big event falls on the third Sunday of January in honor of the city’s patron saint Santo Nino, the child Jesus. It is essentially a ritual dance that recollects Filipinos’ pagan history and their acceptance to Christianity.

This merrymaking is characterized by street dancing competition and onstage performances from hundreds participants dressed in bright colored costumes dance to the rhythm of drums and native gongs. Sidewalks are lined up with vendors and pedestrians so ready to capture the moment, so ready to dance the beat, and above all so ready to shout Pit Senior...

Masquerade masks and henna tattoos are very attractive to both men and women. Recently, the cultural event has been a major tourist attraction and the traditional street dancing became a major competition among group dancers from various parts of the country. So why don’t you visit Cebu, join with us, dance with us, capture moment with fun loving Cebuano and altogether we shout, PIT SENIOR EVERYONE!!!

2009/02/19 Mylene

Three years ago today, I was here - top of this mountain courtesy of my Korean students. It was my first year of teaching. Going back, the view from the top was awesome; yes it was, though looking down was nothing than unfamiliar landmarks and routes. I was new in the city, gambling my fate and eventually landed in the field of teaching English to Koreans. It had been nine months since I went out from the comfort zone of my family. For me Cebu was big, if I have to base everything from my experience, if I had to count the many times I lost my way, if I had to recall the nervousness every time I stopped the jeepney, because I must admit there were countless of those. But to be on the top of the mountain gave me the feeling that I was on my way to my dreams and sure whatever it takes, I would make them happen.

The TOPS where I am now is a viewing platform above the city. The view from the top is still breathtaking. From here you will be able to see the towering buildings and skyscrapers of the city, the busy streets of hardworking Cebuanos seemed painted and framed. It’s nice to be here once in a while, a beautiful escape from the busy life of everyday work. My dreams are not yet at hand but I’m confident I have taken some very important steps. I am sure wherever life takes me to, and if dreams do come true I will go back here at the top of Cebu.

2009/01/07 Mylene