Alfred

"The greatest, hardest story that I'll always write is thy myself."


I can't believe tapos na silang lahat. My turn perhaps...

Why my story is the greatest? Coz I write and decide by myself to make it great.

Why is the hardest? Coz, well.. Some things shouldn't be included that will make the story sucks or somewhat interesting.

Me? Masasabi ko na my thinking.. I owe to my Dad but not all of it. hehe Yun akin pagiging maayos or malinis or kung baga dapat maayos ang lahat in my eyes, I owe it to my Mom. 

Values? Hmmmm Parents, siblings.. Friends, special friends.. hehe Then recently Him. At wag kalimutan ang School unless kung pasaway ka. Di naman ako pasaway sa skul, pala absent lang. hehe Except nung College. It's hard to imagine na what I am now, although I'm happy kasi wala naman ako kaaway or sakit but of course a lot problems. But most of them, doesn't involve me. hehe

Now at 29, I can say I'm rejuvenated and ready to take some small steps to become better, and successful!

I've already said too much in this blog. Not everything. hehe But at least 60% of my life, nandito na. Some names, but not all of them, siyempre to protect them. hehe But I'm proud of my Family, Friends especially to those close ones, and things that I've done, even the mistakes.. Lastly Him, guiding me at this time of crossroads and patience.

I have a long way to go, I have know dreams that I want to achive, not only for me, but for them. I know it will be far fetched, kung baga suntok sa buwan ito! hehe

Pero if I take it slowly or really be patient and control emotions on some things, eh I'll be ok. With a lot of inspiration and love I got and what I feel, this time although late, I won't make any big mistakes. Siyempre may bumps or some lapses, but not major mistakes unlike before. 

Ngayon, the journey is not yet finished.. I have a long walk to go through. A lot roads to choose, and a lot of monsters along the way. Geez, I should have my dragonslayer upgraded perhaps. hehe I can also say that it might be the beginning of a new journey. 

I'm quite prepared for that, soon, all those distractions, obstacles, problems o kahit malas... Matatapos din yan. 

I've discovered myself better than ever. Like I just realized, I'm so introvert, at akala nila cool lang lagi.. Mukhang cool, walang problema. hehe 

Indeed, blackswordsmann will never give up in this battle called life!

Of course, Alfred will always be Alfred.. That tall guy who is kind, sad or serious looking dude who is not sad.. hehe Religious, and a very methodical thinker.

As a good loving son.. (I'm not sure with my parents. hehe)

As a dependable team mate.. (Ask my former co office mates. =)

As a passionate friend.. (running out of words. hehe)

As a devout Catholic and try to serve as best I can for the Glory of God. (Still long way though.)

As a very addictive movie and music fan, or kinda art fan.. I don't know. hehe (Which is kinda doing at spare time.=)

As a unpredictable writer which writes a lot. (You can see that..)

As a simple yet happy man. (I can definitely say that..)

Those are the roles I'm trying to be, even I got all.. I'll always be like that. 

Great thing is, I have a cool name. Alfred! Not Pnoy, not Fred, definitely not Al, or Wanbol, The second, lalo naman ang Junior! hahaha Or other nicknames.

There are a lot quotes or verses that inspire me in this life, but one of them.. I like this a lot, from the Art of War. 

"So it is said that if you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss."

Battles will come, then at the end, one will fall.. I should be victorious! =)

I am Alfred. Alfred means elf or magical counsel, normally names for a King, like those Old English royalties. So that's why I'm not into new things or ideas. I somewhat prefer..

Old yet tested virtues in life. And yes, I like being a counsel as they say.. 

Thanks for having a such royal name...

Alfredo. It's latin of course according to Google, I thought it was spanish.. hehe 

ReView

Ayun, kakakuha ko lang na bagsak na QA. Naman oh! hehehe 

Kung kailan ok na yun streak, nabagsak pa sa ganito.

But may isa pang monitor kaya I hope, that will pass at panatag na puso ko. Akalain mo nalate pa ko before ng last week ng month. Talagang sa April, kailangan bumawi na. As I am disappointed today, I should not be affected to it as long it's not over yet.

This month was quite simple except for the last week. Holy Week. Wala naman ako plano umalis sa Holy Week, baka bantay lang sa bahay nila Ate sa South tapos yun lang. Although I missed the long recollections, I am happy naman last Saturday, kahit maiksi yun recollection, I was inspired naman by the 3 speakers. Niloloko pa ko nung pari. hehe

Well, nadelay ang bagong computer na sana gusto kong bilin but I shouldn't stop dreaming. hahaha I know that soon, no more frustrating times at my old computer. 

I am also very happy turn out sa work, a lot of improvements done pero dapat by this end of the week, bago magbakasyon eh ok na yun score ko. Para kahit papano, kampante na ko.

What else, hmmmmm wala naman ako sobrang problema besides work. Talagang nahirapan ako magsulat sa Ring! Ring! Napakahaba kasi at parang drained out after I wrote just one post/chapter for it.. Kaya for next month pahinga muna tapos balik ulit. Parang every other month ko na lang siya gagawin, kahit gusto ko lang gawin tagalog na lang or english, nasimulan ko na eh. Tagalog version and English Version. hehe

Grabe naman MIA, di pa natatalo, as of the moment 26 straight games na sila walang talo. Sana may tumalo sa kanila oh. hehe Pag umabot o tinalo nila yun record na 33, wala na... Sila ang champion. 

Ah what else.. Ah wala naman special nung 15! hahaha Nabati naman siya ni Ma. 18, di naman nagreply yun tinext ko, baka di na yun number. Wala naman FB. So there. 

It was just a fun month for me, it will be more fun kung ok na scores ko sa work. hehe I mean, after that karaoke with 2cpm friends, CG meetings na may pics pa sa bulletin. hehe Ah, meeting with other friends, and yeah, I'm starting reading. As much I want to start sa excercise, damn I need extra funds for that one more equipment. 

For the holy and last week of this month, I just hope for the best at by next month, the start of being good at everything I do. Work, writing, reading, computing (computer stuff.hehe) and praying perhaps. 

And lastly, yeah, conversion. Nah, not religion.. It's something else. 

Oh, I still can't forget that Smashed film.. Lovely sigh to Kate. =)

Reflections of Love

Faith helps to believe more.

Hope inspires you to do better.

Love is above everything else. 

Out of the three, ang pinakaimportante eh Love. Without love, I don't think you'll enough faith for the long time. Without love, hope seems will be a bliss always. Love is such a word that is hard to explain. But that's the beauty ng Love eh. Once you find it, you are hooked about it. Of course, with some boundaries to avoid well getting hurt. Di ko naman sinasabi na we should stop loving, but sometimes, great love works with a pure heart and a clearer mind. 

Although one being doesn't need to have those qualities. It is God that always love us. Jesus is the symbol of that love through his words and what he did for us. Especially, loving unconditionally even he needs to sacrifice his life. His life to save us all.

And marami pa siyempre na may works of love or even symbols of love. What's important eh you do show love to not only the person you know, but at least somebody na di mo naman close. Or a nobody. Not always but at least, show respect or do some good works. 

Love also gives na something you can use to motivate o yun passion ba to do some things na kala mo di mo gusto. Pero in the long run, magugustuhan din. Lalo na pag maraming benefits na binibigay sayo than hurting anybody or even yourself.

Love keeps you happy, especially pagdating sa relationships whether it's a romantic one, or family relationship, o kahit sa team mo na sakit sa ulo binibigay. hehe At lalo na siyempre sa mga friends mo. 

Love is limitless lalo na if you're receiving it na di mo kailangan palitan agad. 

With Love, faith becomes deeper because you love yourself and love God more.

With Love, hope is also there despite odds or struggles. If it fails, well love helps to pick you up and move on. Sometimes, try it again. 

Love is a many splendid thing. A lot more things na di ko na maexplain pa. hehe Pero for the past years, love gave me light on the things or directions I should take, rather than meeting expectations or making even sa iba. 

Di pala maganda yun, parang I forgot myself. I even ended up not loving myself because it's pushing me away from peace, or even great things such as relationships.. Parang iba na yun mahal ko na dapat di pala. 

Now, I just realized.. Well, I should really enjoy loving not only them, or also Him, but also don't forget me.

Love gives me calm, and I hope, a day will come.

That calm will rule a whole day despite everything is crashing through..

Love will make a way.

Reflections of Hope

Hope indeed keeps you going as they say. Without it, eh malamang, we stay what we are forever. Hope makes dreams, at kahit goals to become better for yourself and others.

Hope gives motivation kahit mga nangyayari sa paligid mo eh di na sa favor mo, you never give up. You never lose hope.

As years goes by, kahit may mga bagay na di naman maganda nangyari, as much faith or love keeps me going.. I never lose hope. Hope that one day, everything will be fine. My family will be happy, friends will be successful on what they're doing at makalabas and have fun time together. My right career will start off good, at magkaroon siyempre ng financial security.. Then lastly, a happy family on my own. 

Hope gives me that vision and motivates me to strive better sa buhay kahit sa ganitong edad. Talagang pag-asa yun nagbibigay sa kin ng lakas para kahit papano mangyari yun mga bagay na yun, kahit mahirap o matagal.

Hope for other people gives enlightenment. I mean, lalo na sa mga taong sawi o depressed o talagang nawala ang lahat, parang naisip tapusin na ang lahat. Hope gives that other way to redeem yourself without really hurting anybody or even sa sarili mo. Gaya na lang siguro yun kwento ni KFC, I mean Colonel Sanders took 1000 times to look for a buyer ng kanyang chicken, funds coming from his Social Security, his last straw.. Then after yun 1000 tries niya, aba look what he has now, even he's gone.. He'll be happy on what his efforts done. Hope gives us a chance to try something out of our comfort zone. 

If we fail, well.. Hope is there na subukan mo ulit in another time, o better, other ways to make you happy, or even succeed. Lalo na sa mga panahon na to, there will be a lot times na kala mo tama ginawa mo, ayun mali pala at pag sinubukan mo naman yun iba.. Mali pa din. Ang hirap di ba. Kahit if you put your passion, love to that something plus hope with faith.. Aba wala pa din! Parang isang way eh sumuko na lang. 

Hope strives you to really become motivated even you've started all around again from the bottom. 

Like for me na lang with this current work, I mean, it's the next low pay I got after that first company na nagwork ako. Pero ok naman, I mean backoffice work, a sked na di naman ako stress, location na kahit medyo malayo pero at least mura at kayang kaya.. I'm enjoying it and besides, I can save naman so I can train for a better career that I hope for.. The latter part deals with hope I have that I can get the career I want in the future. Despite with the situations above, I never lose hope for the best. Of course, di lang short term, ang plan ko  naman siyempre it's also for the long run.

Hope comes best with prayer. As much inner will gives you motivation, iba pa rin yun support from all the people around you and of course, God. 

Family, friends and other sources like books, artists or even sa internet, the stories or articles that gives you hope not gossip or bad news. 

Despite all those bad news or elements, the best way never lose hope, look at the brighter side of things. You're alive everyday, nakakakain ka pa or better, you have a source of income. Or if not, you're still here. Meaning may purpose ka pa sa buhay na to, just make the right choices. 

Yes, for me, God is another source of hope that keeps me going. Through his words, his love at siyempre yun nature na he changes ways to know him then giving us surprises din.. Hope that sometime, he will make in place in God's time. But before that, siyempre, Jesus is there to make it happen bit by bit. 

Hope is not a cigarette but it's addicting.

It keeps you going even you're hurt, bruised or broken.

That hope is like a light, that never runs out. 

Reflections of Faith

Faith means believing into something. Parang yun ang intindi ko..

Dati, I don't really know what faith means. Of course, I am Catholic but other than that, I have no clue what really mean of faith. I was thought in my school na don't forget every Sunday go to mass at minsan may homework pa na reflection in the Sunday's gospel.

Follow the 10 commandments, do this and that, don't do that and this. Hay tapos walang katapusan dasal, can you believe may one time sa HS na may quiz sa CL class namin to memorize all the prayers? Bubunot ka ng isa tapos irecite mo siya! Ayos di ba, of course you'll fail pag di memorize. 

Even in college, although it has deeper discussions thanks to Theology and Ethics classes eh in the end parang kulang. But it doesn't mean I lost my way into oblivion! 

Thanks pa din sa family, close friends, and other people, even books to inspire to continue searching about what should I believe into. 

When I started working, then one time parang sa isang homily, one priest suggest us, the church goers to read the bible so to understand what God really wants to teach us other than rituals, traditions or even prayer.

I did, well.. Until now, I'm still reading the bible, kahit di ko memorize eh now I'm getting the whole picture of what faith really gets me. It opened not only for my faith but also my mind into different things, or maging understanding kung ano man nangyayari. I've become more close to God, especially knowing Jesus more and gifts from God like the Holy Spirit. I've become sensitive in doing things, even na sobrang busy ako sometime, eh I never forget to pray for him, every day.. To give thanks, ask for guidance at forgiveness and most of all, ask for love despite may mga problem or struggles.

All those years of reading and doing some service made me believe that God is always there. Now, I'm in a community, I always think na paano ko siya mababayaran, kasi alam ko besides the tithes, I need to serve. Of course, not only through writing, but some kind of service. Great thing, hinihintay ko na lang ang training from the community. 

Faith to Him made me stronger and never or at least lessen up a lot of worries in my life. Although I'm still impatient, pero most of the time, ayun like waiting in a date.. Just sit there and wait. But continue to believe that everything will be just fine with Him.

That not only goes with Him, it will also improve yun relationship mo with other people. Lalo na yun naniniwala sa'yo, aba eh dapat maniwala ka din sa kanila, lalo na if those people really shows they care for you. Like family members, closest friends, even your TL or team mates, yun faith to them builds trust at siyempre di lang for short term.. Malay mo in the long run aba, maging close mo din sila. Believing to a person with full of trust, love will make wonders. Despite may shortcomings din, aba pagtagal wala din yun. Moving on so fast like it's done already.

Faith also make wonders, sometimes miracles happen. Gaya nung may shop pa ko, minsan talagang wala na ko sa target in a half day's work, aba pagkatapos ng ilan oras, sumobra na sa target agad! Siyempre I have faith sa tauhan ko and system kaya I know if di ngayon, malamang later o bukas. Pero sometimes, even hope is lost or love is gone, something will really happen out of the blue due to faith. Gaya na lang sa team targets or any program na walang guarantee to work, as long you have faith, it will happen. Since faith can really make wonders, eh it can also help you being more confident and you don't care if you fail or so, important you've done the best in a certain role or something. 

Pero di naman lagi ganun, faith also tells you to let go of something. I felt, na it's not always for the better but also saving yourself. Sometimes kasi faith gives you confidence but it may translate to arrogance. Usually, financially, ayun nangyari sa kin, sa sobrang bilib ako na kaya ko na work and spending it all without thinking, ayun I was in deep trouble. Although tapos na, faith in myself na I can recover naman for the better is there. Kahit maraming financial obligations until now, mabuti nga faith is there to make me decide what's best or wrong. 

Faith is universal, it's not only about religion or sorts, it's about faith into something towards moral values, inspirations, relationships or even doctrines. A good faith for me, eh as long the man is becoming better, not hurting other people's faith or beliefs o kahit yun tao eh di nadrain masyado of what's believing eh ok na yun. 

Faith never rests, espeically in times that faith really test you.

Continue to believe that in the right time, faith is the one will save you. 

broken lines (collection 33)

Missing SVH

To communicate..
Choose words that will captivate,
one person to you.

To have connection..
Make ways to reach such people,
to become closer.

Attracting people, 
never been easy, such bliss..
Looks give prejudice.

Becoming famous,
Needs to be come infamous.
Mob will come to you.

To reach out people,
always you to come forward.
Expect some failure.

Looking for success..
Sales, Love, or simply value,
in this so called life.

Have relationship,
through love of sights, sounds, feeling!
Under the blue moon.

Relationship lasts,
through time, boundaries or fate.
Thy trust keeps it long. 

broken lines (collection 32)

Imagine life!

No worries, no fights, no wars..
No disagreements, no hatred, no bitterness..
No crap, no bad soap operas, no pale TV shows..
No bad actors, no bad music artist, no criminals..

No fun variety shows, no sitcoms, no stupidity..
No bad movies, no crazy artists, no blogging..
No concerts, no tabloids, no foreign movies..

No competition, no freedom of speech, no liberty..
No blogging, no expression, no smoking..
No laws, no justice, no mercy..

No happiness, no sadness, no hurting..
No direction, no inspiration, no faith..
No imagination, no sensiblity, no interaction..
No joy, no pain, no regrets..

I can't imagine life with that, can you? 

classics: Somewhere in Time/Midnight in Paris

 Love indeed is timeless..

It is the first time that I'll write about 2 flicks that I feel are classics already at the same time. I'll definitely make this timely short as possible. =)

Anyhow, let's go for the old one first. Somewhere in Time was released on 1980, I saw this when I'm around 9 years old or such, but definitely in betamax format. I still remember I cried in that movie which I don't know why. I watched it again now but I didn't cry, but I got that same bittersweet feeling watching this flick.

Story goes, a successful playwright receive a watch from an old lady then saying come back to her. Years passed well, he took a break from writing plays, took a vacation in an old but grand hotel, which he discovered a beautiful picture in it's hotel museum. He discovered that the lady in the picture was that old lady he met years ago. A well known theater actress in 1912.. As he was very fascinated and fell in love with her, he discovered somehow how to travel time through his college philosphy professor, then attempted to do it.

It worked, by the way his name is Richard and the lady is Elise.. They met despite with strict watching eyes by Elise's manager, Mr. Robinson, they were able to overcome struggles then fell in love. But such love story doesn't come with happy ending.. Richard forgot he has a coin in the present which somewhat transported back to his real time. He became depressed, broken hearted and obssesed with Elise, wanting to get back right away. 

Due to depression, he didn't do anything, he starved himself, died.. But as that one sequence in the end, Elise and Richard met again which no one will separate. Then that famous music plays along.

Despite some major questions around the story, such how the old Elise got the watch if at that time she met Richard, she never saw that watch before. Richard's character, well is he really present at 1912, or he just come out at 1972. Confusing. I don't know...

Lastly, I hope there were a lot of screen time for Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve together. Well, you can't blame those 2 stars experiencing actor's strike and reduced budget at that time, but I hope, at least they have a lot of screen time together at least an hour.. I took 45 minutes when they first met, then another 15 minutes to have a scene they went out walking together. Then yeah it's around 30 minutes you see them together. 

That made me crave for more.

Great things I love this movie... First thing, costume design and setting as well made perfect for the story, I mean I thought it's a big budget at that time, but I read it was done in a tight and slashed budget, you gotta give credit to that team, looking the film elegant and fit for the 1912 period. 

Another thing, despite with the confusing story, got to give credit to the production team, from direction, screenplay, editing to make film focus in the relationship than the story itself. I just hope they have a longer running time.

2 great parts that I love this film that made it a classic.. Christopher Reeve really gave his all in this film, gave me a different impression than Superman 1. Great performance, and it really showed how he loves Elise. Jane Seymour, the only film I remembered about her, seriously, wedding crashers! I also remembered, I used to watch her at Dr. Quinn Medicine Women in TV her. Maybe that beautiful face.. Even when I was a kid, I don't know that name, I knew Christopher Reeve because of Superman. But when I saw her again, that beauty, radiance, don't forget that lovely voice and how she fell in love.. I just sigh and Richard was right, don't care which time you'll see that person, I'll back in time just for that lady.

Don't forget Christopher Plummer as that strict manager, which delivered a great performance, perfect for him even in such a short time. 

Lastly, don't forget that music used in that film. I know it's only like 2 versions used to it, but it's perfect for the film.. I can't imagine other musical score can be used in such lovely claasic.. I love that version used in the film credit.. Very subtle yet, gentle and lovely.. Oh love.. Together walking along in a long winding road, hearing that theme, it feels nothing can really break your love for each other. Anytime, somewhere.

In time.

 Woody Allen almost done with his european tour set of films. Started with Matchpoint in UK, which I haven't watch yet, Vicky Cristina Barcelona which is very hot perfectly fit in Spain, then Midnight in Paris then To Rome with Love.

 

For now, I can say, Midnight in Paris is the best out of those european tours! Very clever.

 

The story goes as one successful hollywood screenwriter tries going into writing novels, travels to Paris with his nagging girlfriend plus her family. The reason for the travel is his soon to be father in law has a business deal to finish in Paris. Gil by the way is the name of the writer, so loved Paris, just strolling around and not minding even when getting soaked in rain. He loves the sights and sounds, romanticism that Paris has to offer. Of course, along the way he met his girlfriend's friend in college plus the boyfriend. Inez by the way is the name of his very stubborn girlfriend.

 

One night after that wine tasting party of sorts, as he lets Inez go out with her friends, and him wants to enjoy just walking around Paris.. He stumbled at midnight in a street and he was picked by a very old car with some people inviting him going to a party. He joined them, drank and yeah, invited inside the party. As he is listening to a familar music which he is quite confused it's the real thing or recording, he was bumped by Zelda and asking what he does.. Gil said he's writing then Zelda introduced Gil to Scott, Scott Fitzgerald.. Gil was surprised that their name sounds like well, as we know, very good american lit writers. But Zelda suggested as they are getting bored, go to other bar and party again!

 

Then, there they went and then go to another bar, as Scott introduced Gil to Hemingway, yes, Ernest Hemingway. Gil was shocked that he'll face Hemingway face to face and talk to him. Gil having a hard time to really know if his novel will be successful or not, so he ask Hemingway to review his novel. Hemingway declined because he's not good at giving opinion. He suggested that bring the novel to Gertude Stein, his critic. Gil was stunned about it, and told Hemingway he'll be back with the novel right away!

 

As he went out from the bar, he goes back and it became a laundry store.

 

His feeling is on a high and very much inspired, so he looks forward every midnight and meet his legendary idols.

 

The second night, as Inez left him in that spot where the old car passing by, he met Pablo Picasso, Gertude Stein and the very lovely Adriana. He gave his novel to Gertude but he was mesmerized with Adriana.

 

As nights goes by, he got not only a direction and inspiration for his novel but also met a lot of the literary, film and art greats like Matisse, Gauguin, Buñuel, Dali, Cole Porter and others that I don't know. But he also fell in love in Adriana... As much he wants to stay with Adriana, he can't because Adriana suggest wants to stay in the period she's in, and Gil although he loves classical, Paris and sorts, he wants to move forward and stay in Paris at the present time.

 

In the end, fell sorry for that detective who was stuck in Louis XIV time, somewhat he looks one.. Gil moved forward, no more 1920's time at midnight, he settled with Gabrielle, a nostalgia shop saleswoman, but very lovely as well. They went walking within Paris in the rain.

 

Oh yeah, he discovered Inez was cheating so he separated for her, no more wedding. That b*tch.

 

The only flaw in this wonderful film, I want to see more screentime of the great cameos or greats like Hemingway, Fitzgerald, or even Picasso or others, even Dali. 90 mins is such a short time that Gil was able to get it right away and fell in love with Paris and his experiences, at least if Woody Allen was able to extend it for around another 20-30 mins, and go deepen with that relationship with Adriana, this will be a perfect film. But it's not really a big flaw, it's a suggestion and maybe they are in a tight budget at that time. I still love it!

 

Give the biggest credit to Woody Allen, let me say at the first 15 minutes of the film, I almost like I'm going to hate this boring film due to Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams acting like b*tch, pain in the arse.. After that he switched to full gear to awesome story.. That's why this film run away with an Oscar for original Screenplay. I could have agreed more! As much I don't like his infidelity part of film, as all his films has that.. I still love that dude. Knows how to depict love in a most simple yet glorious way.

 

His usual direction of clever yet short dialogue, fast paced, topic of love not only with 2 people, but love in the place, time and even the art itself. Give him credit for the compact film it is.. I know it's short and kinda let down but with all those characters coming effectively at such short time, it's a great film, and that takes well experience and smart screenplay.

 

Another credit to the production and costume design team, I mean I thought at first that 1920's backdrop is like I thought it's a party theme of sorts but when it moves forward, it's a really a different time. Got give a lot credit to them for making it real. From the place, cars, even dresses, it's indeed roaring 1920's.

 

Another one, cinematography, those scenes that in 1920's a different color used.. With that somewhat vintage color, it added to that feel of that period.

 

Music should be also given credit, as usual, French has a different kind of sound so you will feel all through out the movie, you're in France indeed. Especially that last scene and the music used in the credits, very French and lovely.

 

Lastly, don't forget the very great cast assembled in this film, not only by their names but also what they've done..

 

From Owen Wilson who I thought he's a young Woody Allen, more younger and good looking. Rachel McAdams as much that's her role, it fits her at least. Her parents at the film, very great portrayals.. Hmmmmm then Tom Hiddleston as F.Scott Fitzgerald, despite with short screening time, he did leave a mark, same as Alison Pill as his wife Zelda, then that Ernest Hemingway dude, damn I know he's not known but they can make a biography out of that character plus the actor alone!

 

Kathy Bates as Gertude Stein, very well acted, intellectual of sorts.. Then Marion Cotillard, wow.. She's not only a great actress but also great looking. I think I should watch her Oscar performance in La Vie Rose. Every film I watch with her on screen, I'm getting interested about her.

 

Then other unknown actors whose roles are the greats, they kinda look alike and felt their prescence even really having a script. Fave cameo, Adrian Brody as Salvador Dali.. Wow.. I was laughing and had fun about that short role of his. He can pull some laughs. Ah of course, don't forget ever reliable Martin Sheen.

 

Well, as much Vicky Cristina Barcelona is damn lovely because of those 3 great actors and actresses.. I mean indeed lovely for that film, but when I saw this film.. I forget Vicky and put this on top already. No doubt! The twist, cameos, design, everything, this really put it as one of the best, an instant classic.

 

But I should watch more Woody Allen flicks, to know which is the best film from him. I bet it's Annie Hall. I don't know yet.

Anyway, you may wonder why I have this two flicks in one blog as classics..

 

They have the same great element used for this film which they indeed use it effectively.

 

Time Travelling!

 

Other time travel flicks are about revenge, or saving one's life, or how about getting famous or rich..

 

These two flicks used time travelling in best ways..

 

For Somewhere in Time, finding love despite odds in different time, believing love is eternal, no time needed.

 

For Midnight in Paris, finding inspiration for one's work, to strive for the best way possible to express his feeling.. Of course, there is also searching for love, but it's more about loving the whole city, and especially the greats and arts. Everything in Paris, even in 1920's.

 

Both of them, really did not make things complicate using time travel as a theme for films. It can be a great tool for being inspired by looking back in time.

 

Or if you can, if you can't really find love here, maybe time travel into a different period and place to search that one true love!

 

Indeed, these films are classics for me.

 

Timeless classics, whenever time I watch these...

 

Passage of time isn't a problem.

Bully

Sorry Solar International, I watched it first here. =)

I was drawn right away with the title itself. I, admit that I was bullied way back HS years. As much I want to forget it, but well I can't. But it doesn't mean I did not forgive or had much hatred who done it, but I forgave them, even one of them is now my best friend. 

I just can't believe after watching it, for those 90 mins of such heavy heart seeing those kids getting bullied all the time but never give up of making a stand against it.

The documentary evolves around 5 kids who experience this kind of bullying. One is bullied because of his appearance and some they call "weird". One is bullied way down south because of her sexual orientation and preference. One is bullied because of her appearance plus she threat them by pointing a gun to them, then she was under probation due to her acts.

Another two separate stories of bullying due to their appearance and lack of esteem, unfortunately, because of it, they took their own lives. They can't take it anymore of it.

These are some of the many, or a lot stories evolves around bullying which affects a child's life. It is, not only physically but also more damage done emotionally.

There are 2 factors that which kinda did not help the documentary. One is the style of documentary is not that informative, or narrative. I mean the stories of these kids are great, but the style of narrative I hope they do it in a manner that builds interest or flow of the story. They only done that at the end.

Second factor which it's not the films or even the production crew's fault. It's the lack of action of government, even schools. The one who can really control this behavior or incidents are schools itself. I hate that one scene that the assistant principal done nothing about the incident of a kid, who is not only got bullied but also got stab by a pencil or physically hurt, and the kid is having like physical disability because of his condition. I mean, as much they scolded the kids for doing that but they will come back and do it again not only to that same kid, but others..

Of course, it's not only happening in the US, but all around the world. Here, it's a culture already. Geez.. I hope teachers, admin, faculty do their outmost authority not really punish for those who done it, but at least penalize or reprimand, or zero tolerance maybe for bullying. I know it's not easy but with will and authority, kids, children will follow. Not to mention the police who should also take part of it, which in the movie, they don't care even. 

I love those stories shared by those kids, but the one that strike me most was the girl who is smart showing off a gun to threat those kids. I mean it's bad, real bad but great thing the gun is not loaded but she's quite smart enough to face it and she has the guts to really show those suckers.. In the footage, those bullies where not even get close to her. Geez, bullies have one thing in common, they are strong if they are in an advantage, but very weak if they know they'll lose, they'll run away first. 

Another story strike me was that kid which is a miracle baby but as he grew older, getting picked day in and out. I feel sorry for that kid, almost like me, they just curse me or sometimes hurt but do nothing about it, good thing that kid done. Not fighting back.

What's alarming is bullying causes deaths of innocent children, I won't be surprised that this happen in Japan or other parts of the world. Such act can really damage such child's emotions or confident, then mentally as well.. I don't why they taught of it but well... It can.

Me, as a HS kid, I admit I did not go to school not because what I said I'm sick, had a flu or what. It's just I'm tired going to school because of those bullies.. I just want to get away from them for just a day or so. It is true. Sorry Ate for lying, and making those letters that I'm sick. =) But yeah, I endure it and finished school until college. Some of the bullies I confront, I finished college ahead of them. Poor them. hehe Yeah, some of them are happy or so, but well.. It's fate or Karma perhaps. 

What I can advise to those kids is quite simple... Don't fight back and continue to love life, if they don't love you who you are.. Then love the people around you, like first, family.. Family has the big part of overcoming fear of the child or be confident as long there is love and support from family. Close friends, or simply have friends. It doesn't mean you're alone in this earth, you have friends that you can keep or guide you. Great thing I have friends in HS before that despite my being a weirdo or sorts being bullied, I have friends who are in the same state yet not fighting back but we enjoyed company. 

Lastly, if you can, which I already did.. Be friend or nice to those bullies, I mean in the end, the bully became my friends. Ask Rheg for that. But yeah, most of the bullies, I've become friends with.. I forgave them and yeah leave them alone, besides, you'll not be schoolmates forever except if they said sorry and let's be friends.. Which, they graciously did.. That's why now, indeed, I don't have any hatred towards them. I just laugh when I remember those days. 

Oh don't forget, yeah pray to God that despite you get bullied everyday.. His love will cover your imperfections and enjoy your day as normal. Forgive as well. 

I was a bully too to Algerro but oh well, it's not the best thing to do.. I got beaten up. =)

It's not jolly to be a bully perhaps. 

Ring! Ring!

(Ortigas/Shaw/Mandaluyong)

Yes, it is quite near me. I mean from our house, 1 jeep going to MRT then MRT going to any of the stations, either Ortigas station, Shaw Blvd station or Boni Station. But after that, you need to walk long roads going to either work. Except for Shaw Blvd perhaps but well.. Any good at Shaw Blvd? I don't know. 

Another way going to Ortigas or Manda, G-Liner is another route from SM Centerpoint, just make sure you go down at Robinson's Gallerira. Another one is go to Quiapo, ride those FX shuttles then go down inside Ortigas, either ADB avenue or SM Megamall. But don't go there at night because it's quite dangerous. 

I really don't like the place. I mean, you will exert a lot of effort going there, especially if you the MRT way. Like I've done before, while working in HSBC which they don't have a center there anymore.. It felt tired already once I go down from the MRT station, looking ahead in discovery suites, having a long walk, passing thru a stoney parking lot at Podium then go to discovery suites, ride a elevator up to the 30th something floor then exhausted to take calls. That's what I felt and some days, I just don't want to work. hehe

How about the Boni Station? The cyberpark in Robinson's it's not even a walk in the park one. A lot of effort you need to exert. hehe Even there are some call centers/BPO that I can apply there, I did not attempt even once to apply there. It's just you need to have a lot effort going there. 

All I can say, if you want to work here. Just make sure, you really into brisk walking, every single day of work. You need to breathe and hope you won't be tired going there everyday. Especially if the place of work is inside Ortigas like Julia Vargas or Emerald or PSE.. I suggest take a cab. 


Let's go to Shaw, call centers are near there just across Starmall but yeah, a lot of walking. 

Sykes Asia - One of the pioneers of call center business here in the country. They have 2 sites at Shaw Blvd. One at One San Miguel blvd if I got it right, another one at that World Center across Starmall. I'm not sure if that One San Miguel site is still present but before I used to apply there. I have some acquiantances still working there, but a lot worked there and left. 

They've known before having a lot VL and SL then can be convertible to cash. But basic pay it's quite low before. Now, what I heard they will let you choose some kind of job offer package. One is low basic rate but a lot of premiums such as hazard pay, transpo allowance and other premiums. Another is high basic pay (17k tops but it's still low compared to other centers) but almost less to none bonuses or premiums.

Before they used to have Emerson, then a lot of centers in NCR due to acquisition of ICT but now, due to Emerson bolting out from them, then they also closed some centers like one here near at Hi Top and in Marikina, I'm not sure if there is one there.. They have few operating centers now. 

Accounts mostly US accounts, I don't know if that ad about a dayshift Australian account is true but definitely, they have a lot of US accounts. I'm not sure if Microsoft is still there, MCI I know still there, a financial account which I forgot what it is.. Ah a dental insurance in the US and others. 

All who left only has one common problem, a low pay with no really appraisal or increase yearly. But the benefits is good, maybe except for training which I'll tell later in a different site. There are worse experiences I heard but I'll tell it in a different site. hehe

For me, if you're a call center virgin, try it here but not in the long term. 

TP (Teleperfomance) - Well known call center thanks to their ads showing in Jeepneys and Classified Ads. They have one site situated Edsa Central, but they have a lot of sites situated not only in NCR but way down south provinces as well. 

If I heard it right, but I'm not sure if they have the account there, they have Telstra SME account. What's good about this center, I heard they pay good, better basic pay of sorts. But all who I've known worked and left there, they have one big problem which indeed a problem. Poor payroll system. 

Every payday, you'll experience problems which you will be demotivated, asking why will I work in a company which don't pay right everypay day. Geez, that's why I'm not surprised many leaving there, or many are going there to work or apply but also, many are leaving. 

I'm not sure which are the other accounts, but I'll make a research or make guesses in their different site. But I've known before, they have also local accounts and known for well.. Energy saving center, I mean using electric fans than have air conditioner while working. That is not good. hahaha

Emerson - One BPO company found at the Boni Station, Robinson's Cybergate. Specializes in utilities, equipment of sorts.. I thought they do have a high pay but it turns out not. It depends maybe which department you go through but what I heard, they hire engineers even not board passers so it's good thing for them.

I almost tried to apply there but when I heard the pay of sorts, nah.. 15k tops for an entry level work then going there, what an effort. 

Accenture - The desciption is quite long for this company. hehe But I'll just make an introduction for this one. Yeah, they have a site at Cybergate, and yes, a big BPO company with some call center accounts. They cater a lot or wide range of clients they have. 

However, in this site alone, famously, and I'm not sure if this happens until now. They have always a standby ambulance outside in that building. That's for them! One reason they have like that, and what I heard before, they have a very stressful account. So stressful one. Other facts about this company, well I'll tell it in the other site. 

TELUS - they have a site here at Ortigas, discovery suites. I'm very sure that site still stands there, as they have ads about a CSR position for a Australian Telco account, which I'm guessing Virgin or other telcos. 

SITEL - They had a site in Cybergate which it will be transferred to ETON cyberpod right across Robinson's Gallleria then they have another one which is at Ortigas, around Emerald or Julia Vargas, not sure. hehe I know they are near ADB avenue then you need to walk in some street. 

Famous for having a gaming account, I think that Star Wars, then they have Dow Jones journal, I'm not sure about it but they do have a business newspaper account. They have also a sales account, US account. I'm sorry if I was not able to memorize. hehe Financial account for Capital One if I'm correct..

Before they were Clientlogic which handles DHS Dell accounts but when they were buy out by Sitel, they became big.

Their screening process has a quite difficult interview but after that, it's smooth sailing. For me, I had a disappointing experience. I'll tell that later. I heard and I hope it's not true, that they still have a basic of 12k.. That's terrible, I mean with all the stress you're getting and these days, 12K is very small. 12K salary I experienced was way back epldt days! hehe

One great benefit they have which I know is their Maxicare benefits. You won't need to pay for your dependents as long they are qualified. It has reimbursement and it has around 150K limit for you know medical expenses and emergencies. Although not the best but they have that great benefit which others still stay there. 

TPG - An australian call center specifically for a Australian telco account under the same name which I know they offer big pay around 20k, but yeah.. It has outbound sales, CSR, tech support and worst of all, escalations. Escalations were made due to the fact that in Australia, if you ask to have your telephone service connected, wait for 10 business days. That made a customer asking for escalations especially after 10 business days, paying that connection fee, still customer doesn't have service. Geez.. I know why. hehe

Acquire - The call center situated well, near Sykes.. Dodo is one of their biggest clients, I'm not sure the other accounts they have such as directory or sales accounts. But Dodo, is like TPG in Australia. We can call them, small telco companies in Aussie. Well, they also offer around 17K-20K depends which department you are going to work to. I heard they have great schedule plotting it's like working in a normal job, but I'm not sure if they work on weekends. 

But one thing is for sure, Dodo is a difficult account like TPG. The reason is also the same.hehe

CVG (Convergys) - The biggest, or even the largest pure call center operations here in the country. One of their first and old sites is here at Ortigas. Until now, it's still running. 

They show great ads, commercials especially in print media like what you see in buses. You can see them always in Job Fair and malls.. They are like sari sari stores, they are just around the corner. They do have big sites, no joking.

They have the biggest in number ranging sites from NCR, Visayas and Mindanao and right now, they even have one in Nuvali.

I'm not sure which accounts they have in this site but definitely, here at CVG, all kinds of stressful and toxic accounts that you can think of are here. 


Maersk - It sounds like a pharmaceutical company but not.. It's the number 1 company in Norway, one of the big shipping companies around the world. If you see 12 wheeler trucks carrying Maersk shipping containers, that's them. In Ortigas, I sense that this is the biggest BPO/call center. I mean, it's an inhouse company and most of the people, tenured agents want to go there. It means, they have great salary package and benefits.

Their previous Xmas party, they have Up Dharma Down playing, so it just means they are big time! hehe

They have series of tests, online and paper based.. Yes, if you're applying for an accounting position, you will compute and they will test your skills for that! It was damn hard. 

I passed those tests but the sad thing was HR did not call me even they promised. They have a test which is time pressured, even it's like repeating questions and abstract questions, I don't know how I passed. hehe

I don't know really what's their weakness or problem in that company but what I can think of is their location. I hope their office is at Makati, or QC or different place, just not Ortigas. They are in the same building with Sitel, and they are around 30th floor in a quite old building. It's not easy to go to work with. But do I recommend you applying there? I don't know how stressful but my former team mate is already there and he's having a great time, so yeah, try to apply and work there.

Besides, Maersk really own this one. They handle international accounts, depending which timezone you're working with around the world. As much I want to work there, I imagine myself not working again in all around shifts, like nightshift, and maybe you'll work at weekends. I just want to work in their backoffice positions. Calls, nah.. Unless they have great package but if it's calls, forget it.

Fly by night centers - In Ortigas, it's the home of networking/MLM/scamming companies you can think of. It is! As much SEC is very near at that place, these obsurd companies still working, I don't know why. Maybe nobody is strong enough to file a complaint.

Yes, even in the BPO industry, there are some call centers which runs as long the client stays. If the client wants out, the center closes. That happens especially for outbound sales, hardcore selling call centers. Meaning they live by the day, no sales, no pay, they don't even care about the welfare of workers. 

Horror stories which well, I heard from former workers such as no breaks until you sell, no sitting, cursing TL's especially if you have no sale. OT's that are not paid until you make a sale or if you do make a sale, free jollibee lunch. Yes, a lunch from jollibee that pays you for a whole day. Great! hehe And the most glaring problem of all, the product/service you sell is a scam, and you'll do everything just to get a sale.

Yes, you'll do everything, even fraud just to make a sale and they approve it. There are also companies that are well, sell adult entertainment, I mean through Chat. Wow. That's outsourcing for you! hahaha

For inbound call centers, well.. Most glaring problem is the delay of your salary until you got tired of waiting and resign.

This not only happen for hardcore selling, or inbound cs, but also in other kinds of operations like research, upselling, forex or even collection. There is one building in Ortigas which I'm not sure if that's the name, but I remember it's Orient Square building, it houses a lot of this companies. 

Tips to avoid these companies, just search it first if they are running for a year, or most. They have a lot of clients they handle, or even if they are registered in SEC, BIR, and DTI. And yeah, for example if you're in the interview or in their office already, and it's look like it's bare, agents are not happy and talking about hitting targets or if you hear them getting punished all the time, then get out from there. Don't waste time and talent in this companies. 

Investor's standpoint, Ortigas is a good place to really have your office or call center. To invest into. Near at everything, best schools, MRT, SEC, PSE, great hospitals, a lot of malls from high street to the end market malls... Except for traffic, especially holiday season? Just don't go there. hehe 

Don't forget there are a lot of ways going there, even they don't allow jeep inside Ortigas. Night spots and clubs like in Metrowalk, include as well the ever famous Banchetto food market every weekend which they transferred already. hehe This place is fine but a dude like me living in QC, I just don't like it here. You need a lot of effort going to work, unless if its your dream job. 

For those who live near here? You're damn lucky. =)

I forgot, other centers are here such as Online english teaching for Koreans, Medical transcriptionist which pays a lot for what I heard, WEST contact in Cybergate which pays every biweekly but strict stats, Transcom in tiendesitas which I heard a so-so company but they are still there and in EDSA, RR Donnelly at the middle of Shaw and Boni station which it has 17K less tax pay tops. hehe Ah, Teletech as well, Brady for outbound sales, ah a lot more.. In numbers, they have a lot here including those scammers. hehe

Anyway, these set of places are good. However, it's just me who can't really stand working in this especially in the night shift ones, unless I have a big pay which will cover my Taxi expenses. hehe

But it's a good place to work, especially if you're near and has the time all day to walk and work in these places. I hope sometime, these places will be convenient to work with. 

PreView

"Don't focus on emptiness, so much love room for happiness.." 

Kaskade is damn right! hehe

But anyhow, this month is a search for happiness. I'm happy na but of course, we're not done yet. Although Lent season pala, but we should be happy because this the right time to have deep relationship with Him and have some space from work or anything that give you stress. hehe 

I hope my scores will improve, or kahit sa team namin. I hope na mastart na ang healthy routine, I just need to finish the book I'm reading. =) Planning na din for the summer months. 

I don't expect this month na sobrang lahat ay maayos, pero sana lang less problems. hehe March for me always kinda special. Special in a way that it's lite and a lot of breeze, flowing inside and out. 

Well, this month mabuti nakapagplot ako ng VL at ang dates... Ehem parang familiar. hahahha Nagkataon lang siguro. Tuloy pa din ang film fest. Tuloy pa din nag less writing and hoping for more reading para sa inspiration. 

Tuloy pa din ang pagigng single.

Tuloy pa din ang spacing out. hehe

Tuloy pa din ang ever simplified life. =)

Ah I was inspired what Hemingway said, I don't care if he did say that when he's still living, it came from the film Midnight in Paris.

"No story is terrible, as long the story is true, prose is clean and honest, gave grace under pressure." 

Wow.. I need to write more! 

That's March for me, I'm looking forward to it.