To Market, To Market!

This is our public market in the province - locally called Palengke or Pamilihang Bayan. Active on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

So, we do our marketing only on those days to buy fresh produce, fish, meat and poultry. People from nearby barrios also go to the poblacion or town proper, where the public market is situated during market days. Some of the barrio people go here to sell their produce as well (usually backyard produce).

I already have my suki or patrons that I frequent most of the time. being a fan of vegetables and fruits, some of them already know what i Like. If i missed visiting them for, say a week, my suki will say "How come you did not buy from me this week?". Some of them even know me by name.

Haggling or Tawad is also one of the games of the trade. You can ask for discounts aropund 5% to 10% of their selling price. Often, ask for additional or dagdag after the purchase. If you have 10 pieces of tomato for five pesos, ask for another piece. Or just round of to the nearest tens the total purchase... Say, if total purchase is 85, ask for tawad of 5 pesos so you pay only P80!

In general, I find it fun to visit our my favorite vendors during market days. You bump into people you know eons ago... Sort of having a reunion. "Oh hi Ma'am Martin, I thought you were in Canada? Having a vacation?" At times, I hear "How come you did not attend the aerobics last night?" or "Did you hear about Mang Tacio's daughter?"

You will also hear the latest gossips and events in town... from exercise, to accidents to reasons why there is no electricity. Well, I have not heard them discuss about Obama though! They are more concerned about prices in gasoline, LPG's and basic commodities.

In the Philippines, try to visit the local public market. It is so different from malls and supermarkets. Try to appreciate the difference and explore our culture.

Well, come to think of it, one of our nursery rhymes is about the market. I think I have forgotten some portions of the song now that I am doing the real trip to the market myself.

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To Market, to Market

To market, to market to buy a fat pig;
Home again, home again, jiggety-jig.

To market, to market, to buy a fat hog;
Home again, home again, jiggety-jog.

To market, to market, to buy a plum cake;
Home again, home again, market is late.

To market, to market, to buy a plum bun;
Home again, home again, market is done.

To market, to market, a gallop a trot,
To buy some meat to put in the pot;

Three pence a quarter, a groat a side,
If it hadn't been killed it must have died

Secret Garden Part 2

Some of the photos that, due to lack of space, did not make it in the first part of the secret garden.

But every one of them has a space in the secret garden within...

And they deserve to be shared.

Sharing is a part of having that secret garden within our hearts... enjoying the serenity and glow that gardens of blooms could provide...

Enjoy the rest of the plant photos in my neighbors' gardens in the province.

In the hope that it will help you create the Secret Garden in your hearts...

=========================== . . . .

All photos were taken with the permission of the owners , my neighbors, in Nueva Ecija, Philippines. (Some observing me during the activity.)

The secret garden part 1: http://promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com/2009/01/secret-garden.html

A Resort By the Mountain

Finally, there is a newly developed resort by the foot of Sierra Madre Mountains.

The resort is called Stone 8. We have visited this a couple of times. The water is so cool, coming from the mountains. It is very near the Dupinga river, so most probably they have the same source of water.

From our part of town, it takes us around thirty minutes to get there. From the main city, it is about an hour and a half.There are breathe-taking views of mountains and hills along the way.

I saw the old bus that goes to the east coast of Luzon, Dingalan.

I also saw some farmers along the way. And carabaos , too.

At the resort, there are pools for adults and kids. slides. Fish ponds.

Of course, what is a Filipino vacation party without the videoke? Yes, we can sing our hearts out right here in this resort. I have belted a couple of songs during a relative's birthday bash here and a friend's vacation who came from Australia.

But the water, although really cold is so inviting. Very natural. No chlorine since it is free flowing, so water is replaced regularly...

From time to time, there are vendors of native delicacies and bananas that visits our kubo (nipa hut). Often, in our visits here, we buy the bananas offered so cheap in the resort.

Now, a trip to to this part of north eastern Luzon near the Sierra Madre Mountains will only be complete after a visit to this nice resort.

Paminto

I have learned a new Tagalog word through careful listening and...

drinking with my relatives and close friends!

We were having a blast drinking local strong beer (aka red horse) and has discussed heck a lot of topics from the sun and space to Obama. I missed the local beer and did not bother to open the gift of vodka from my brother-in-law.

Our drinking forum subjects were so diverse, I cannot understand what the other half of the group is saying anymore. (For me this is one good element of alcohol, it opens up the mind and makes other people talk.)

Most of the topics evolved around relationships. I gave them some lecture about the application of strategies, based on Sun Tzu's Art of War, whenever there is a discussion between them and their wives. It was so funny, realizing that there are strategies to be learned and applied not only in business but also in relationships. I just hope my other brother in law will be careful next time in handling marital arguments involving his controversial mobile phone.

Our lively discussions were suddenly halted when my sister handed over a packed pancit (noodles) to a drinking buddy, my high school friend drinking right beside me.

Holding the packed food, He immediately commented "Ah, ok na itong paminto!" (This is an acceptable paminto)

I asked, "What does paminto mean?

It turned out that the word is combination of Tagalog prefix pam or pang which means for, or to be used to. And the word pinto - which means door or opening. Hence, literally, paminto means, an item which will be used in a door.

"Why do you consider this food as paminto? Use it in your door?"

"No. This will be the best proof of your alibi, so your wife will open the doors for you!"

"Ahhh.. So it is not just putot (or take-home food). It will also serve as the key to open the door and show your wife that you really came from a legit occasion!"

And since my good friend (since elementary days) has a valid reason to drink, plus the paminto, he does not have to worry going home late that night!

That's another strategy for drinking husbands!

Ahhh... Now, I know... And will advise my fellow drinking buddies: Everytime there is an occassion to drink, and your wife is not a part of the group... Make sure to bring a paminto with you.

It is the key to your homes... a key to blissful marriage! hehehe!

If symptoms persist, consult your wives!

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related link for the putot:

http://promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com/2008/11/putot.html

A River That Runs Through . . .

. . .Our Town.

I visited the river or ILOG in Tagalog, that runs on the North-Eastern part of our province. It connects to the Pampanga River and a small portion is called Daus River. There is also a resort near the mountain, taking advantage of the view and the waters that nature offers.

It was late afternoon when I visited the river. So refreshing...the cool breeze that touched my skin. I walked, skipped, hoped along the river banks... on the stones.. some with moss and a bit slippery. The water here ius a bit cold. (I have taken a bath here a couple of times, along with the carabaos.. hehehe)

The river is surrounded by hills. And glancing to the east, the great Sierra Madre Mountain Range can be seen where the water comes from.

I saw some carabaos being bathed by their owners. Kalabaw is the national animal of the Philippines - the farmers' best friend. Near the river, there are farms of vegetables and mostly of palay (rice) and onion. Agriculture, being the main source of income of most of my provincemates, the river really helpd them a lot.

The modern world has also taken its toll in the province. I am surprised to see a plastic trash - one that I can trace to have come from supermarket in Metro Manila which is 5 hours away sans traffic. There are also other garbages in the river, but not really that much. I hope, the local government and the public will be more concerned and help clean this river.

As the sun starts to set, there were farmers crossing the river. Walking. Traversing the water current. On their head, they carry produce or whatever items they got that they avoid getting wet.

Some farmers are already on my side of the river, but came from the far east side. I saw them walking in groups towards town. Next thing I knew, some of them are already watching me taking photos of the river and the sunset. Most are their kids watching me.

I heard someone say "Ang ganda! Ang ganda pala!" meaning, it's beautiful, surprisingly beautiful.

Seeing the photo of the river and the sunset from the digital camera.

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That time, I realized that maybe they were amazed by its beauty only because they have not stopped... paused... in order to appreciate their environment. Farmers are known hard workers. I am just glad to have sort of shown them the nice view of their workplace... of the river ... of the farm.

For some people, it is just a river. For some, it helps them water their farm.

For others, it could be a place to dump their trash.

For some, it helps them clean themselves... it also helps clean their animals. ...

josephjosephjoseph

The river also marks their pathway towards town... it segregates the northern and southern portion of our part of the province.

It is just a river... that has different meanings to us province dwellers.

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A river that helped a lot in agriculture, in maintaining the balance of nature.

...A river that runs through our town.

Feast of Sto. Niño

Our province recently held a religious procession in honor of the Sto. Niño, the child image of Jesus Christ.

It is almost similar (or patterned) to the way Cebuanos celebrated the feast by having the Sinulog Festival. A famous parade and street dances in honor of the child Jesus. Santo Niño is the oldest religious image that reached the Philippine soil. A wooden image was brought by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 and was presented as a baptismal gift to Queen Juana

During the Holy Mass, I have learned that the Philippines is the only country (tolerated?) that has this kind of feast and approved by the Holy See.

"Just remember that this Holy Child grew to become the adult Jesus Christ, who died on the cross to save us from our sins", the Parish Priest reminded his flock during his sermon, as he invited everyone to join the procession.

In my almost two decades of embracing life in this part of the province, I think this is the first time we held a colorful parade for the young Jesus. A lot of people joined the procession with each barrio or barangay having representatives. There were various images in different clothes, most are in greens and reds.

Aside from the religious images, there were also a lot of children that were dressed the same as the Holy Child. The parents and guardians beside their children. The children are so cute waving their hands... and the fun part of it is that some of them are giving away goodies - candies, pop corn and stuffs to the watchers.

There were brass bands, ati-atihan dancers, female dancers in native moslems costumes (of Southern Philippines) similar to singkil and some people in green shirt printed with "Viva Sto. Niño!" People of all ages are present - from the young children, to teen agers to the lolas (grannies). As I was taking photos, I thought I bumped into a young lad - to my surprise, he turned out to be our young parish priest! :)

I find it interesting the various types of vehicles used to carry the religious images depicting the young Jesus. There were small battery-operated toy cars, tricycles, bicycles with sidecars (still a tricycle?) , passenger type jeepneys, owner-type jeepneys, SUV's and the pugpug or hand tractor. I was waiting for the carabao or cow with cart... But it's a no-show.

I find the parade fun and worthwhile. It shows how the town people cooperates with one another and how venerates the Savior. I also observe a lot of them having fun during the parade, greeting people as they pass by and seemingly not minding their exhaustion.

The colorful procession - the dances, the trimmings and the entire pageantry is just the Filipino's way of expressing how important the Young Jesus is in our lives.

I am glad and am proud for having this tradition, finally, in our town!

My congratulations to the organizers of the event!

Viva Sto. Niño!

The Secret Garden

by joseph*promdi-pinoy

My secret garden is not really that secret
The garden is not even mine

But there is something that connects me
To the plants, the flowers and the people behind them

That’s what probably kept me thinking
The secret garden is just within our hearts

It is the way we respect the living
No matter how small, no matter what color

It is the way we appreciate things
And how it helps brighten our days

People just have to find it within themselves
And recognize the enormous value of little things

Breathing in the majesty of the secret garden
Blissful pleasure and comfort fills my soul

The plants, the flowers that are not really mine
They are owned by neighbors, relatives and friends

Keeping their garden healthy and grand
So others can partake of its splendor, its essence

The secret is also in the sharing
Of the beauty, of the blessings, of life

Try to find your little garden

It's just right there, waiting to be nurtured

Surely, it will provide harmony, peace of mind

That only a secret garden in our hearts can provide

. . . And this is the secret
Of my secret garden

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Photos taken in the neighborhood of my province: Poblacion, Laur, Nueva Ecija, Philippines.

By josephldaos, promdi-pinoy 01/18/09 Monday.

Elements of Promdi

On my netsurfing activities, I came across this site where you answer some questions and your element will be revealed. It also has other information about energies, colors, etc. regarding personalities.

I find it fun and worth sharing. Maybe, as a Filipino my interest in this element thingies is a part of my Chinese influences - astrologies, geomancies, etc.

I was born in the year of the Pig, a metal pig. I hope the year of the Earth Ox of 2009 has a lot of good things in store for me!

Your Power Element is Wood

Your power colors: green and brown Your energy: generative Your season: spring Like a tree, you are always growing and changing. And while your life is dynamic, you are firmly grounded. You have high morals and great confidence in yourself and others. You have a wide set of interests, and you make for interesting company.

What's Your Power Element?

You Are Copper

You are provocative and challenging. You help people realize who they really are. You live a very balanced life. You always take time for love and art. You are both a powerful and generous person. You always have time to give back. People find you to be incredibly ethical and loyal.

What Metal Are You?

Ampalaya Massacre and the Papaya Tragedy

I woke up with a nightmare!

Alas! The nightmare came out to be true!

This morning, my small backyard vegetable garden was massacred by our native chicken! the plants that suffered the most damage was my ampalaya and papaya! What a tragedy!!

I tried to secure the small plants by putting trellis and small branches of trees around it. Knowing that it could be ransacked by chicken if not. But I guess, the barrier, the protection was not good enough. The culprit, having a small head and pointed beak, was able to squeeze through between the branches and trellis. The chicken are always scratching the soil looking for food, even if their food is right in front of their very eyes! What's worse is that some plant branches were not spared by their beak or their feet. And ate the leaves of my poor plants!

In my previous posts about gardening, I have mentioned the good things that come along with having a garden. Imagine, watching the seed sprouting from the soil. Almost everyday, checking on its progress. Celebrating little successes as the plant successfully grows leaves and gets bigger everyday. It sorts of soothes the soul and gives simple joy to our mind.

Now, imagine my dismay when these chicken pillaged and ravaged my small plants! Even my kamote (sweet potato) leaves were not spared!

Ohhh.. these native chicken!! Love them (the taste) hate them (their nature). They do not know whats good for them. I even prepared a new nest for a hen a few days back. Even wove some palm leaves for the nest (learned this when I was young... hello Hawaii - they teach you this in Polynesian Cultural Center!) Now, this is what I will get from that good deed?

This is how my plants used to look like as it grows:

The ampalaya (bittermelon), growing… trying to reach the trellis.. beside it is the The papaya seedling, struggling but successfully trying to get a glimpse of sunlight...

The camote... growing, sprouting with very healthy leaves and has already provided nutrient for my family…
And now, this is how it looked like after the native chicken had fun with the leaves...

My poor ampalaya and papaya, almost nothing left of them.

Trying to reach the trellis.. now what?
Papaya... now almost leafless.. hopefully not lifeless...

What used to be a very healthy kamote tops. Now, kamote topless!

I cannot help it but get mad at those chicken… And this is what should happen to these chicken !!! The revenge of my plants!! (No, I have not done this yet... Still on the planning stage!)
***

I survived the nightmare by the realization as vividly expressed in this poem:

Life in the province...

It's not just verdant forests...

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And fresh air....

#############

It's not just full of flowers and roses...

11111111111111

It has chicken shits, as well!

prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by joseph promdipinoy 01/15/09 Thursday...prepared by

Expressway in the Province(s)

During my recent trip to Pampanga and Zambales, I felt the convenience of using the new expressway: The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx).

Coming from Nueva Ecija, it usually takes us about six to eight hours just to go to Botolan, Zambales. Thanks to SCTEx, the travel time was almost cut in half, mainly because we do not have to traverse towns and city propers - usually traffic-clogged areas.

It is ninety-four kilometers, starting from Tarlac going through Pampanga province and ends in Subic Bay Free Port in Zambales. There are also exits going to Clark in Angeles City, Pampanga. Both Subic and Clark are formerU.S. military bases (Naval Base and Air Base respectively) in the Philippines now converted into Freeport and Economic Zones.

At least I finally see a portion of people's taxes working for our benefit. Or just mere government loan from internation financing institution, further drowning Filipinos with obligations. I'm just not so sure if the construction price is doubled or tripled just like what I've heard with other government contracts. Well, at least it is a solid infrastructure that, we, people in the province will definitely benefit from.

Aside from the convenience of faster trip, SCTEx also offers breath-taking view of the hills, the farm and the clouds. Entranced by the views, I tried to capture some photos during the trip. Some hills (or mountains) has to give in for the construction of this expressway.
From our province, it is now easier and faster for us to go to Pampanga or Zambales . I hope we can visit our relatives there more frequently.

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<<>>

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To my surprise, my trip yesterday (Monday) to Manila also utilized SCTEX and made our travel a lot faster. The route will be Cabanatuan-Tarlac-Pampanga and then Manila. I believe it is longer in terms of distance, but shorter in time because we did not go through Gapan and Bulacan where there's a lot of heavy traffic and even bottlenecks.

From SCTEx we took Northern Luzon Expressway or NLEX. The travel is almost hte same as taking freeways in the USA now! I'm so thankful for these freeways, I mena expressways in the Philippines! It makes our travel a lot faster!

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

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...

In my search for the good news regarding this expressway,

I happen to come accross this article that I would like to share:

PGMA inaugurates Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway

INFRASTRUCTURE CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga – As a vital component of her super regions strategy aimed at developing the country's provinces into new centers of tourism, business and industry, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo inaugurated today the newly-constructed Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) designed to serve as an economic backbone for growth areas north of Manila.

The President took an inaugural drive-through a portion of the SCTEX signalling the soft opening of the 94-kilometer highway that will provide better and faster access to the Subic Bay Freeport in Zambales and the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

This soft opening, according to the President, covers the Subic-Clark portion of the SCTEX, which is some 50 kilometers long.

Built at (here you go....) a cost of P27 billion, of which P23.06 billion was funded through a loan grant from the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC) and the rest shouldered by the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), the SCTEX, which is a major component of the Luzon Urban Beltway, serves as a critical link to vital business corridors in Central Luzon such as the Subic seaport in Zambales and the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) in Pampanga.

Other economic zones within Subic, Clark and Tarlac areas are also expected to benefit greatly with the opening of the SCTEX.With its completion, SCTEX will now open up more job opportunities for residents in these areas as more industries and facilities are expected to put up businesses such as transportation, communications, banking and food services as well as labor-intensive and service-oriented industries.

To the business locators, the SCTEX enhances growth in commerce and industry in the region, spurs more opportunities for the import-export industries and attracts more players in medical tourism and call center services.More importantly, the SCTEX ensures faster delivery of goods and services by cutting travel time to and from the centers of business because of excellent road condition.

The previous one-and-a-half hours travel time from Clark to Subic now only takes 40 minutes, while the usual one hour needed to travel from Clark to Tarlac has been reduced to just 25 minutes.In time for the Lenten break, the SCTEX will have a "Libreng Biyahe sa SCTEX Program" with the theme "Handog ni Pangulong Gloria, Libreng Biyahe sa SCTEX" for light vehicles from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. after today’s soft opening and from 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from March 19 to 24.

The President enjoined all Filipinos to take advantage of the free toll at the SCTEX which, she said, will greatly ease travel expenses for family travelling up north."Biyahe na!," the President exclaimed after opening the toll-free expressway.

TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 2008

(Excerpts taken from the Philippine government portal: http://www.gov.ph)

Eat My Back(yard)

Yes, you can eat my back... Backyard plants, that is. The fruit-bearing trees, herbs, wild plants and shrubs that surrounds our backyard...

This is one of the things that I find really nice (and sometimes amusing) about living in the province.

There are a lot of plants in our yard (front, back, side), as well as the neighbor's yard, that are edible. We have kamote or sweet yams, malunggay, squash, pandan and fruit trees like banana (not officially a tree), mango, kamyas, calamansi, suha (pomelo), kaymito (star apple) and others that we and our elders planted intentionally. We also have langka (jackfruit), himbabao and coconut tree that could be older than me.

Some of the edibles are kinda wild and just sprouted in our backyard. Others are actually surprised at my knowledge about some wild plants like amargoso or papait and mango flower buds. During rainy season, saluyot or jute plant will grow everywhere (the slippery leaves!). These kid of food are already exotic to others, and honestly, I really appreciate its distinct taste and flavor. (Sooo gourmet!:))

Not only that it satisfies our palates, it also satisfies our wallets! It does not cost us anything if we need sampalok or tamarind leaves for our sinigang. Or if we need ripe guavas for the mouth-watering Sinigang na Bangus sa bayabas (Milkfish in Guava broth)!

Other people eats our back(yard) too! Meaning, the neighbors! It is so common to hear: "Pwede po ba makapitas ng saluyot sa likod? (Can we pick some jute leaves at the back?) or "Pahingi naman ng kamyas nyo! (Please give us some kamyas fruits!). Sharing backyard produce is a practice in our province that I really appreciate!

Now, aside from sweet yam, I am adding some more plants like tomato, ampalaya (bitter melon) and papaya. I hope these plants will grow well and bear nice fruits.

I think I am a gardener at heart. I believe I got this from my father who taught me how to do basic gardening and appreciate the food gathered in our yard. He was actually at the family backyard garden gathering produce when I was born. (Check out this related story: http://promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com/2008/12/promdi-birth-at-bamboo-bed.html)

There is a certain degree of satisfaction and pleasure obtained from having a backyard organic vegetable garden. This is also ture in having a set of few fruit trees lining up the yard. There is very minimal work involved in backyard gardening. But the joy of gathering the fruit of labor is satisfying. I believe it soothes the psyche of the gardener and the people gathering the produce. Aside from the fact that we have a total knowledge that what we will be eating is very fresh organic veggies.

We can get other benefits from our surrounding trees and veggie garden aside from lowering our expenses on food. As mentioned earlier, it means feeding our family with healthy, organic vegetables. It also helps the environment, especially the trees. Well, it somehow reduces the environmental impact of transporting and warehousing food. See? That's a lot of benefits, isn't it?

At times, when we pick and cook some kamote tops, it makes our food preparation and the entire meal itself a little more personal and interesting. Having kids join the gardening activities, it also connects the family. I hope this will also help in making them understand the cycle of life, the weather and of course the joy of gardening with the parents. (Just like I did)

If time and space permits, where ever my feet will bring me, I will have a small garden of my own veggies.

I am glad that our province, specifically our location near the foot of Sierra Madre Mountains, provide ample space for us to grow plants just beside our own homes. Well, a neighbor even have a small piggery in their backyard! (No I am not gonna talk about pigs here!)

Backyard edibles just makes living in the province more interesting. It makes me appreciate how different it is to live in the province compared to the cities.

Hayyy.. buhay-probinsya!

y joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Friday. By joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Friday.By joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Friday.By joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Friday.By joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Friday.By joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Friday.By joseph daos for promdi-pinoy.blogspot.com. photos copyright joseph daos. january 09, 2009 Fri

Parent Teachers Association

composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday. composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009
“What? That old guy from Roxas Street eloped with the young pretty girl from Natividad? Really?”

“Hey, are you going to go attend the aerobics tonight? You look like you gained some weight last vacation, just like me! Let’s go tonight, okay?”

“I think we need to recommend the Mayor to attend the fitness thing? He needs it!”

“Let’s have some get-together. A party of some sort. Only us, the parents. Who wants to go?

“Aren’t we going to pursue the previous plan of bringing the kids to the zoo? My daughter wants to visit the Dinosaur Land.”

“Late! You are late, you need to pay fine of twenty pesos. We are the gatekeepers here!”

“I heard you were leaving us soon! Abroad again huh? Let’s have a party before you go! I’ll take care of the pulutan!”

“Listen, listen folks! I am creating a new set of savings group here or paluwagan! I wanna know who wants to join!”

“Did you know that the priest from that town has a child with the girl in this barrio? Gosh, I am not really sure how it happened. But I think it is true. The girl is a relative of a friend.”

“Hey , what was the emergency last night? I heard the siren of the ambulance. Were you driving last night?

“Accident. The old vendor of banana pear got hit by a vehicle and left her on the street. A victim of hit and run! So we brought her to the city hospital! I’m not so sure if she will make it though.”

“Have you heard about the news that Manny Pacquiao is running for a public position again?” He maybe rich but he does not know what’s good for him!”

“I think the gossip that Manny was involved with this sexy actress is true. They were seen together in the US. Based on the showbiz magazine that I read.”

“My, my, our friend here is getting prettier everyday. She even had her hair re-bonded. Her husband from Canada will be here for a vacation! Uyyy, excited!”

“Oh, it’s really hard to think about the next menu for lunch today and then for dinner!”

“My husband grilled pork chops yesterday and it was soooo good! I’ll share to you the recipe. Today we are having mackerel broiled in tomato and ginger.”

"I hate this lady from the other session! She so annoying and so inconsiderate! She does not know who she dealing with!"


“Oooops, some children are crying. Maybe teacher needs some help inside the classroom!”

“You know, I wonder why my son loves pink. At the age of three, he always wants Barbie dolls and anything pink. I think he’s gay!”

“Life abroad is really difficult, but it also makes us learn a lot. Good thing, some Overseas Filipino Workers are paid well, and we can earn and save a lot as well.”

“What are you having for your son’s merienda today? Ahhh, sandwich and juice?”

“Call the lady vendor selling vegetables on wheels! Come on guys let’s buy some vegetables!”

“The weather is really getting cold, especially in the morning. It’s getting harder and harder for me to wake up!”

“What happened to your legs? How long did it take for the hair to grow back after you shaved?”
composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday. composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08,
Then suddenly… everyone heard the children almost shouting in unison:

“Goodbye classmates! Goodbye teacher!”

“Oh classes are already done! It’s still early! We’re not done yet talking, chit-chat, joking and gossiping here! Hehehe!”

From the little hut where the parents are chit-chatting endlessly, they saw their children queuing. Getting ready to leave. Children aged 3 to 5, so cute in their red uniforms.

Every parent and guardian stood up and got themselves ready to greet their respective child.

“What did you do today? Your assignments? Did you follow your teacher’s instructions?” Were you good?”

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This is the usual scenario at the Day Care Center in the province... our province. Not only the students meet new friends. Also the parents and guardians became friends and bonded daily. With so much time in their hands as they wait and look afteir their charge.

With various topics. With various gossips (tsismis).


I suggest we change the meaning of PTA acronym to:

Parents’ Tsismis Association

Dedicated to the friendship of parents and guardians of the Day Care Center, that evolved through the time.. Time spent together as they patiently wait for their children

composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday. composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday.composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday. composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursda

composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday. composed by joseph l. daos january 08, 2009/Thursday

Philippines' Colorful Fall

Autumn Leaves.

Falling gracefully and in full varied colors.

Of red.
Of grey.
Of orange.
Of brown. And others
Creating a harmony that only nature can provide.


Falling leaves….
Sends delight to all beings
Providing a sense of peace… of tranquility


Falling leaves…
An assurance of the continued circle of life
Granting nurture to other creatures

Falling leaves…
Giving way to the new generation
Leaving a space for others to grow
An endless and inevitable fate
Of coming and going on the face of the earth

Falling leaves…
Drifting, swaying as the air moves
Despite what seems to be a lifeless state
With its vivid colors and shape
Still enhances the surroundings

Falling leaves…
Not only a symbol of the season
But it also marks the preparation
To become strong and secure
Against severe weather about to ensue

Falling leaves…
A symbol, a representation of life
Of a new life… of struggles.. of hopes
The joy and beauty of giving
And the acceptance of fate

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Oficially, the Philippines only has two seasons: The wet or rainy season and the dry or Sunny season.

A tropical country, we do not have winter or fall. I just notice that we do have falling leaves somehow. Not maple or anything similar with the trees of other countries. More of santol, kamyas and mango trees. Well, it is still the same.. Autumn. Fall.

I just thought it really provides assurance of what life is...

created by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursday/created by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursday joseph joseph joseph joseph josepj josepb b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b b

created by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursdaycreated by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursdaycreated by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursdaycreated by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursdaycreated by joseph lapira daos. 01/08/2009. thursday

Three Kings and the Stars

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Behind every joke is a grain of truth. The society may use humour as a sneaky way to air their true feelings...

Feast of the Three Kings today in the Philippines.

It also marks the last day of the series of events anchored on Christmas celebration.

I just want to share a portion the parish priest's homily in Saint Stephen's Parish Church. How the so-called Three Kings traveled far, guided only by a star in order to pay homage to the newborn Emmanuel.

Imagine traveling across the country (or countries) just using camels? Good thing when they reached Jesus Christ, he was still a child!

The good priest really got my attention further by trying to apply the hardships of the kings to modern times in following Jesus Christ.

The priest asked, But do we know which star to follow? Let me ask you some questions..


“Do you know who is the Mega Star?”

“Sharon Cuneta!” the people replied.

“And who is the Diamond Star?”

Without batting an eyelash, the people answered “Maricel Soriano!.”

“Of course, who will not know the Superstar?”

In unison, the people said “Nora Aunor!”

“What about the Star for All Seasons?”

At their loudest, the people shouted, “Vilma Santos!”

“And who is the Falling Star?”

The people were silenced.

The priest, receiving no response from the suddenly muted audience, on his softest voice ever, almost whispered on the microphone:

“GMA!”

And the people laughed with him.

The priest immediately followed by stating “joke lang po!” (or it’s just a joke!)”

Well, despite the fact that he already said it was just a joke… someone at the audience can’t help himself but…

Clap!

At the outstanding delivery of joke …

and the reality of...

The Falling Star!

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo!

(The falling star who refused to fall, no matter what!)

The Wild Wired World of the Philippines

Sorry to disappoint most readers but this has nothing to do with the wild, explicit and scandalous things going on in the modern wired world in the Philippines.

And no. the photos here are not cobwebs.

Most of the cables and wires we see here are results of electrical connections. Others are telephone and cable network connections. Good thing internet connections here are mostly broadband, no need to add wires and cables to the post.

The posts are usually owned by the local electric cooperative, while if posts are inside subdivisions, these are erected by the real estate developers. As observed, there are some which are dangerously overcrowded with wires.

I do not know what kind of planning they have when it comes to wiring the cities and towns of our province. It does not need an expert in electricity and urban planning to conclude that there is lack or absence of planning.

Some posh and modern villages in the Philippines already have underground cablings. Most are development in recent years that properly planned for this aspect of technology.

As the webs of technology crawls to the provinces… Provinces that are not ready with too much wires… Yet willing to accommodate and accept the advent of modernization… This results to unsafe connections to houses. Not only that these wild wires and cables pose danger to the public, it is also unpleasant to the eye. It destroys the normal scenery that the province offers.

It will take a lot of resources in order to correct all of these cobwebs of wires. First thing that the companies involved and engaged in wiring our province are to ensure safety for the community.

Ideally, the longer term plan is to finally remove the cablings that destroys the natural sceneries of the province.

I see two things that will probably resolve in removing secondary wires and cables: One is the obvious and tedious rewiring of the province. And the other is technology. Since technology and modern living can be blamed for the wirings, it can also be the key in removing them. I hope time will come when internet, cable TV and telephone connections that does not require wires and cables will become cheaper and affordable to my province mates. Well, needless to say that wireless technology is more convenient.

As of the moment, my imagination cannot reach distributing electricity to homes without wires and cables. Ooops…. I suddenly got an idea! Why not distributing electricity through rechargeable batteries?

Imagine having one, similar to a battery car, that can accommodate one month’s electrical requirement of a house. One that can be recharged or replaced by the local electric distributor by simply texting or an automated signal to their office. Free delivery, connection and service charges!

Just imagine... A province without the wild wires.

(Most photos are taken in San Jose City and Laur, Nueva Ecija)

Celebrating New Year The Filipino Way

A news from one of the the country's leading newpapers: "Despite the dim economic prospects, nine out of 10 Filipinos are entering the new year with hope, rather than with fear, according to results of an independent survey released Monday." (Philippine Daily Inquirer 12/29/2008)

Filipinos are generally hopeful despite the on going global economic crisis. Here in the province, seldom that the financial crunch is discussed, if any. They do not worry to much about other things in the world. Most of them think about their love ones, food for the table and their family's future.

We usually have December 31 as a non-working holiday, giving ample time for Filipinos to prepare for the New Year's eve celebration. This year, guess what? The very good government declared more than a week of non-working holiday (started last Christmas) which ends on Sunday after new year! I hope they realize the economic impact of this declaration! Well, since I cannot change that anymore, I'd rather enjoy and make the most out of it.

With the new year bringing in new hopes, I observe most of us still following what is the usual Filipino tradition of welcoming the new year.

Compared to other countries, we Filipinos celebrate the new year differently. We prepare a lot of things and things get busier and busier as the 12 midnight gets near. I personally find it extravagant and sometimes defy logic but really fun. What can I do? I may have questions (asking for reasons)... But I grew up with it and has learned to appreciate it! Join the fun of celebrating New the Pinoy Way!


Pinoys celebrate with a bang!!

Yes. Literally. With a lot of firecrackers and fireworks!

Even weeks before Christmas, vendors of fire crackers and fireworks are usual part of the scenery along roads and highways as well as sidewalks of major public places.

The belief that firecrakers and loud noises drive away evil spirits and bad luck is inherited from the Chinese. Despite the warning from government agencies (Department of Health) of the hazards of using pyrotechnic devices, this tradition still lives on. I remember when I was young and living amongst the military neighborhood, the use of gun and ammo during new year revelry is as common as seeing clouds in the sky. I thought it was just normal (being a son of a member of the Philippine Army). Good thing the government issued a ban on the use of guns. Now its use is a thing of the past.

Despite warnings from concerned individuals and organization, the Filipino tradition of welcoming the new year with lights and sounds lives on. This is generally done during new year's eve.

The province of Bulacan, particularly the towns of Sta. Maria and Bocaue is where we can find the manufacturers of pyrotechnic products. Some of the leading manufacturers from this province won in major competitions on fireworks in the Philippines and abroad! There was a couple of years in the past when we visit a known factory in Bulacan around November to buy the items cheaper. The price more than doubles as new year approaches.

Famous among the types of paputok are: Rebentador (or Labentador), trianggulo, pla-pla, super lolo, bawang, sinturon ni Hudas (Judas' belt), Crying Cow (amazing how it copies the loud sound of cow!), Kwutis (baby rockets), picollo, Watusi. (There are new items this year, but I am not sure about how the new firecrackers are called)

(As I type this the word paputok, I erroneously typed paputol which means 'to cut or severe' - a warning that if not carefully used, these paputok could result to serious injuries like loss of finger or worse.)

Lights and fireworks display items are called fountain (of various types including silver and gold), lusis, roman candle, trompillo. Some very impressive aerial fireworks display items can be made to order.


Natural and Environment-Friendly Noisemakers

We also have people in the province that does not use these elaborate and sometimes very expensive fireworks. Innovative people use empty cans to be tied on a string and attached to a vehicle (a jeepney, a bicycle or car). They drive around the barangay or village pulling the empty cans making loud noises on the street.

We also use Torotot or trumpets or horns usually made from bamboo. Now, horns are decorated and made into shape like hats and small trumpets. Others are already made from plastics.

Batya or large wash basins that are made from GI sheets are also being used as gongs!

Those with motor vehicles traditionally turns on the ignition and honks endlessly at the strike of midnight.

Bumbong is a canon made from bamboo. They put a white powder (not gun poweder) called kalburo (carbide) in one end and place fire like the canon of the old days. This produces a really loud bang.
Media Noche Feast

Food. Food. Food!

Whatever you have on your table on new year's day is what you will have the whole year round. That is what people believe, that is why food is so abundant in welcoming the new year.

There are also traditional food that needs to be seen on the table, believed to bring good luck for the coming year.
We usually have bulalo soup (beef hind shank stew), kare-kare (vegetable stew with ox tail and tripe), Pinoy style spaghetti, rice, rice cakes (I prepared palitaw from glutinous rice with sugar, sesame seed and peanut toppings), fruit salad and my famous crema de fruta. Others have ham, fried lumpia and fresh lumpia on their table.

Fruits. Fruits. Fruits

A tradition of having twelve rounded fruits is also passed on to us by the Chinese. This is kinda hard to follow but we usually manage. The 12 fruits is believed to bring in good fortune for the coming year.

Filipinos usually have grapes (some are hanged on doorways), young coco, mango, calamansi, citrus (dalandan or dalanghita), oranges, ponkan, kiat kiat, pomelo... Ahh never ending fruits.


The Family Dinner

Famously called media noche - the family midnight dinner. What is important in media noche is right after the revelry, the family sits down on the dining table together. Complete. Everyone gets together around the table and partake the food. This one thing I really appreciate and try to impart to the younger generation.

Other Beliefs and Practices

Aside from lighting firecrackers and having firework displays that is (Chinese-oriented) believed to drive away ominous or evil spirits and bad luck, we Filipinos have other countless beliefs and traditions in welcoming the new year. Most, if not all of the practices are believed to bring in good luck and prosperity in the new year.

As the countdown for the New Year gets nearer, everyone gets busier preparing and trying to follow beliefs and traditions. It varies from one region to another in some little way. But some are well-known, like...

• The Holy Mass before midnight. A tradition that the whole family goes to church together before the New Year. It was a traditional midnight mass, but moved earlier so the family can get home earlier and have their media noche feast.
• Polka dot designed clothes. Wear something with circle and polka dot designs, believed to represent money. Colors representing prosperity like red and gold is also usually worn. (I wore orange! Hehehe!)
• Coins in the pocket to jingle and make noise. Again, money matters! It wont hurt if you'll have some crisp bills as well.
• Coins placed on windows and in major ventilations. Other homes also place couns on their staircases.
• Coins thrown in the house as the midnight clock strikes.
• In the house, all doors and windows should be open .All lights should also be turned on. The entire house should be lively! Open doors and lights believe to welcome graces and blessings the whole year.
• Twelve eggs and twelve round fruits should be on the table as it is a sign of prosperity for the next twelve months! (There was a change as I listen to some people.. they require 13 fruits now... to exceed what expectations? Hehehe!)
• Water containers, rice containers, salt containers filled to the brim. For Ilocano's... do not forget the bagoong container!
• I like the part that some people pay off their debts before new year! Some are too irresponsible that creditors do not trust them anymore! At least, the tradition will entice them to pay!
• When I was a child, we were asked to jump at the strike of midnight. Believed to make us grow taller. Hm.. something went wrong here. (I think, I did not jump that high)

All the revelries and fireworks come to life an hour before midnight... Reaches its highlight when the clock strikes twelve as everyone welcomes the new year. Around 1 am, everyone starts to rest but we can still hear and see fireworks from time to time.

The cacophony of loud noises and sounds of merrymaking are not only meant to celebrate the coming of the New Year. The food, the fruits and traditions are not only meant to bring in the fortune and a bountiful new year. All these brouhaha is also a part of a Filipino family life. These traditions from the point of preparation to the actual celebration brings us all together.

What is important here is that we are celebrating and welcoming the new year together. As one big complete family!