20 Jan 2010 CAINTA CATHOLIC COLLEGE EMPLOYEES’ CHRISTMAS PARTY ‘09

My ELEVENTH YEAR  of sharing my moments with YOU…

Date:  December 18, 2009                                                                                   Time: 1:00 pm-5:00 pm                                                                                                            Venue: CCC  Auditorium

As usual, the program started with the registration of all the employees which must be done for the food tabs and the raffle draws. Upon entering the newly- renovated auditorium, happy and  smiling faces as well as the sighs( oooh, aaah) were indications of surprise and admiration.

The new auditorium could be compared to a first class theater, ‘though still lacking in some gadgets, equipment, and interiors. There were technical booth, dressing room, and rest room accessible to  the users. The image of the Blessed Virgin Mary was placed on the left side of the stage.

While everyone was waiting for the program to start, CCC cooperative , (through Mrs. Charry Cruz and Mrs. Bernados) gave free Jubilee T-shirts to all cooperative members. Thank you!

Fr. Jose Blaise Maria E. Garcia presided the Bible Enthronement which followed by the blessing of the Virgin Mary and community singing of “Salve Regina” as a sign of praise and devotion.

All the departments prepared prayers led by Mrs. Mary Jane Chicote, Grade School Christian Living Coordinator.

“Let us all be joyful in celebrating the season,”expressed warmheartedly by Mr. Reldino Aquino, the chairman of the Golden Jubilee Celebration. He also extended his sincerest thanks to Rev. Msgr. Arnel Lagarejos for allowing CCC to use the new auditorium. At the same time, he congratulated two members of the community, Fr. Blaise on his 15th Sacerdotal Anniversary and Atty Carmencita P.L. Logan for the noble, universal award, “Ecclesia et Pontifice” bestowed by Pope Benedict XVI.

It’s also a time of giving tribute to Mrs. Lolita Padi,  who served CCC for 25 years.  One of her friends in the industry, Mrs. Sergia Rivera took time to expressed her appreciation to Mrs. Padi, being her mentor and a critic at the same time.In behalf of CCC community, Msgr. Arnel delivered expression of thanks and also appreciation for her long length of  service and her contributions to the institution.  On the other hand, Mrs. Padi thanked everyone especially Msgr. Arnel for this time of receiving accolade. She also expressed her appreciation to Msgr.  for being a hard working leader and had done a lot of changes in CCC. For her final words,  ” A new chapter in my life is waiting. I may probably stay with my  daughter abroad and would take care of my  grandchild.”  She received a plaque of appreciation and a token from CCC.

In his opening remarks, Rev, Msgr. Arnel Lagarejos touched on the glimpse of the sad events  over the past few months. He  shared his sentiments by saying he  questioned the Lord about the difficulties which could hinder the celebration of the Golden Jubilee. But after self- introspection, he realized that it happened for some reasons. All were affected and not only CCC community. It’s a reminder for everyone to be faithful to the communion and mission. “We should not be helpless but instead, be strong enough to face whatever trials that would come along the way. GOD is always with us. In any difficulty that we would experience, HE will always there to comfort us.” He continued, “The real essence of the celebration is giving and sharing.  Show your love and concern to one another. Let us move on and continue celebrating this long-awaited anniversary of our institution.”

“Never a weakness that He can’t fill. Never a sickness that He can’t heal. Never a sorrow that He doesn’t share. Moment by moment- WE are under JESUS care!”

Msgr. Arnel discussed briefly the history behind the establishment of this auditorium. It was under Msgr. Sta. Ana’s administration when the Diocese of Antipolo initiated the construction of this building with the idea that it would be used as a formation center. According to Msgr. Arnel,  he had done a mass inside this auditorium before. During the time of Msgr. Mariano Balbago, there was a tremendous increase in enrolment and some parts of the auditorium were used as classrooms to in- house some of the enrollees. He ended his message by saying, “This auditorium would be the landmark of our Golden Jubilee Year Celebration. The blessing of this structure would be on February 16, 2010.’” Then, he expressed his gratitude to everybody for gracing the occasion and extended also his greeting for this special season and the coming year.

There were raffle draws in- between presentations, the dance interpretation (representatives of different offices) and the tableau about “The Nativity”, choreographed and trained by Mr. Jerome Samson of the College Department. CCC employees’ singing sensations - Sir Dino, Andy, Ferdie, Rizza, Toks, RV, Zhel, Henry, Chu  and Msgr. Arnel (who sang “Beautiful in my Eyes”, nice rendition!) shared their talents that enlightened the evening. Ms.  Neneng Marcelo played the piano while Mr. Ernil Tuason sang a Christmas song.  He, together with other employees sang also the bests of Cascades. There was a modern dance performed by the MAPEH department together with some employees who were dance enthusiasts ( which include Mrs. Issa Amalia, the only rose among the thorns ) .The big revelation was none other Fr. Blaise who gave his best in exposing his hidden talent.

Simple but delicious foods were served. There was a group game, “Decorating a Christmas Tree” (using a human figure), participated by all the three departments. Grade School Department won this game proving how creative Grade School teachers were!

To my co-employees who were with me in the past years and would still stay behind me in the years to come (through thick and thin), sharing anything under the sun,  consoling and giving me pieces of advice in my moments of disasters(?)-THANK YOU. To my “motivators” and those who act as the “stimulants” in my sometime humdrum life, please keep pushing me on.  For those whom I wasn’t able to give my time when my presence was mostly needed, I’m sorry. ( Forgiveness warms the hearts).

Wishing you all the best- peace of mind, good health, prosperity, happiness  not only this season but everyday of the year!

29 Dec 2009 A BIG SCHOOL CALLED…LIFE (5)
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What a Beautiful Day!

Yes, it was the day after Christmas. I thought it was just a day of relaxing because of the past few days being so busy with different activities. But, it’s more than what I was thinking about.
My daughter Fiona, son Jeric and I spent the day with lot of “asaran” which always ended up with words, “Ikaw na naman ang bida.” We also talked about what it would be this coming year- Jeric promised that he would already be working before my birthday. BUT, jokingly he said, “Mom, I will not talk to you any more”. When I asked him why, “It’s because… “Oh, It’s ok. I could read it in your eyes.” But I reminded him, “Don’t forget to leave the money on the table.” Then we all laughed. Seriously, I told both them that if ever they become successful, remain to be humble. Love their jobs, share their blessings  and don’t forget to ask HIS guidance.
Late at night, Jeric asked me if I want to see the movie he was streaming in our PC.It was not shown yet in the big screen according to him. The title of the movie was “Invictus” I told Jeric that it was a very nice poem written by William Ernest Henley.
The movie was about the life of President Noel Mandela,( portrayed by Morgan Freeman) first black president of South Africa. Looking back before he became president of Africa, he was accused of being anti-apartheid, activist, saboteur, and other crimes. He was imprisoned from 1963-1990 at Robben Island Prison,  which later after his imprisonment became a tourist attraction.
nelson_mandela At the age of 75, he became the oldest elected President.One big problem of his country was racial segregation. He believed that in his own way, he could be an instrument to spread peace, reunite his racially divided country by giving full support in the team, the Springbok      ( which compromised completely with the white players ) in its bid to win the World Cup 2005.Being an anti- apartheid before, for this time he wants to show by example. FORGIVENESS which could bring PEACE and HARMONY to his country.

INVICTUS

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced or cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horrors of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I AM THE MASTER OF MY FATE
I AM THE CAPTAIN OF MY SOUL.

-William Ernest Henley

*President Nelson Mandela chose the path, and what he decided and been through was final. It’s his choice. No matter how painful and full of injustices his life before, it matters not and what matters most was what he could give and share to others - forgive, heal the wounds to unite and stop the division.

“To build a nation, we must exceed our expectations.”
-President Nelson Mandela
27 Dec 2009 A BIG SCHOOL CALLED…LIFE (4)
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neil-and-niel

Together, Forever!

DATE- December 15, 2009
Time- 10:00 am
Place- EDSA Shrine, Ortigas
Event- Neil and Niel’s Wedding
Officiating priests- Rev. Msgr. Arnel F. Lagarejos                                                                                                  & Rev. Fr. Leo Luanzon

After ten years of engagement, at last, Neil and Niel finally tied the knot and faced a new chapter in their lives as couple. No tears, even tears of joy felt down from their cheeks. Just smiles signifying ecstatic feelings both of them had on that very special moment.

As a mother, it’s more than happiness that I felt. Recalling those times when Neil was still a kid, he was a consistent honor student but his health was his biggest problem. When he transferred in Cainta Catholic College, he maintained his scholastic achievements and more than that, he engaged more of his time in academic contests, athletics, and religious activities. He was one of the trainors of Youth for Mary and Christ together with Fr. Leo. His first ambition was to become a priest but I didn’t allow him to enter St. John the Baptist Seminary in Virac, Catanduanes. It’s too far and I didn’t want him to be far away from me because of his health and other personal reasons.

Since he was my eldest, he was only the one whom I could share my problems. It could be one of the reasons why in his younger years, he viewed life in a very mature way. Neil, in his bachelor’s days had been so good as a son and as a big brother. He had done his obligations more than any parent could expect from his son.

grats-ate-jans

The day has came… Now you’ll be with Niel and my words for you - I was so sure that you could be a good husband, just keep falling in love with the same person (Niel), learn from others’ experiences and, always be happy!

“LET GOD BE THE SOURCE OF LOVE IN YOUR MARRIAGE”

16 Nov 2009 A Big School Called … Life (3)
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Teachers’ Exodus-

It’s so evident that many teachers are seeking and applying to work abroad. Migrating to other countries, they believe will pave the way to a more comfortable life. It’s now very easy for them to apply because of so many social networks doing the advertisements. Who knows- they could be lucky!

One may think it’s really necessary to offer something  before anybody can go there- the skills and educational attainment. But, the most important thing is the courage and the will. I knew a close friend who went there and spent almost Php 300 000. She gained her experiences from a remote public school (roots). Her first year of teaching in other country was a nightmare. She almost decided to return home penniless. But because of her dream, giving her family a brighter future, she tried to rise and stand strong with the help of constant prayers. Now, I should say it’s more than enough of what she could give to her family. She’s working in a far away place, communicating every now and then to feel her family’s love and vice versa.

Many teaching jobs abroad are so tempting. Although there are certain qualifications, still some are given the chance, they are the lucky ones! How did they are able to pass through these—- with the confidence, right attitude and of course the first impression! Works abroad also offer lot of benefits like free board and lodging, free visit to the country, and after 6 months you could bring your family with you. Lastly, a  starting salary ranging from Php 60 000 - Php 100 00/month. Who do you think will not accept the offer? For more enhancement and knowledge acquisition, there are  employers would give free trainings and further education to teachers. Believing that anyone could be fashioned into a better person, into a better worker.

As a teacher, I  for one believe that we have many competent teachers and they could even compete with other nationalities. They would not stay there for too long if they are not performing well.

As  we go along with this exodus problem of the country, the big number of our teachers will keep on decreasing gradually. What would happen  now to our educational system with lesser number of teachers? How much budget is allotted for it in order to compensate teachers’ jobs and prevent from going abroad? This is an alarming issue. It’s really a big loss if more and more teachers will leave and serve other countries instead of their beloved country.  To stop the flow, what must be done by whom?

11 Nov 2009 My Hometown- Then and Now

The Beauty Within… and I’m Proud to be-

coffeecupsteaming-animated-1

Brewed coffee in the early morning, sweet lanzones andlanzones rambutan during month of September, citrus fruits on October and other tropical fruits during summer,fresh air and cold climate throughout the year,hospitable and God-fearing people- Where would you go and find them all?

The travel time from Manila going to such wonderful place is only 2 1/2 hours.You will pass by 5 other towns to reach the place. The zigzag roads which are not as long and winding as that of Baguio would be the distinctive landmark of  my hometown, CUENCA.


Most people here before were engaged in rice planting. But now, many of them converted their fields into orchard farm. Others migrated into the city and they became successful bakery owners. Comparing them to the Jews, anywhere in the country, you’ll find out that almost bakery establishments are owned by Batangueños, mostly the Cuencaeños.

Orchard farm? Although most of the rice fields were converted into such, people gained better earnings.At the same time, they could apply the multiple cropping which is so favorable because it maximizes the space and an additional earnings for them.

It’s a change , a change for the better.The people landscaped their fields by planting more trees which give them bountiful harvests.Since most of the trees underwent asexual reproductions ( grafting, budding, marcotting, etc) , it only took months or less than 4 years on the time of reaping.  How nice to look at those fruits bumping as the gentle wind touches it! The fruits are almost at your pick and need not to use “tikin”.The coffee fruits  are like small red buttons and the peppermints  are dangling earrings hanging all over the kakawati tree! Added to these, are the preservation of most herbal plants that could be found in the fields or forests. (e.g.- pandong ahas, bignay, acalpulco, balay uhor, kulutan, mutha, sulyak daga, kitis-kitis, tagpo, pandakaking puti, talampunay,ikmo, gugo, gatas-gatasan, suag-kabayo, lagundi,luyang dilaw, luyang itim  and many more).

The place is not only endowed with tropical climate, plants and fruits but also nice and hospitable people. Visiting one’s house, you will be offered with hot, brewed coffee or “tinolang manok”, bulanglang na gulay, gulay na kadyos na may kibal, sinaing na tawilis, sinaing na tulingan, hinalyasang tambakol, kinamatisang muang, kinamatisang pauto, ensaladang mustasa or pipino and before leaving the place , you have something to bring with you.

With the bountiful place, the people feel how good and great GOD is by continuing to preserve the gift HE has given. They show that  they’re lovers of all His creations, be it man or nature.

Kudos not only to my “kababayans” but to all those who are great and faithful stewards of God’s creations!

27 Oct 2009 Tayo na sa Kusina ni “Inay” (4)
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May mga pagkakataong nag-iisip tayo ng mga angkop ihanda sa isang mahalagang okasyon. Dito, sa Kusina ni “Inay” paellamatutunghayan ang mga resipe ng dalawang masasarap na pagkaing madali ring lutuin… more…

05 Oct 2009 A BIG SCHOOL CALLED…LIFE (2)
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ONDOY’S TIMELINE-ondoys112

Recalling to my own memory, it was the same flashback scene from a catastrophic movie I had watched before… more…

03 Oct 2009 FAITH, HOPE and TRUST (3)
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“Only in prprayingayers does one achieve that complete and harmonious assembly of body, mind and spirit which gives the frail human being its unshakeable  strength.”
-Alexis Carrel

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01 Sep 2009 A BIG SCHOOL CALLED… LIFE (1)
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We are enrolllifeed in a full- time informal school called “life.” Each day in this school, we will have the opportunities to learn lessons. Some lessons are easy and there are some which are difficult. On the other hand, some people like the lessons and absorb them. Some find them very interesting. There are those who refuse to learn thinking that the lessons are irrelevant and stupid. They just enjoy life. more…

26 Aug 2009 FAITH, HOPE and TRUST (2)
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hope21

HOPE… perches in the soul,
And sings…
An
d never stops at all.
-Emily Dickinson


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