Ms. Universe 2009 and who should have won


I was able to watch the replay of Ms. Universe 2009 on Sunday. I began to ponder if Ms. Venezuela really deserved the crown considering that she wasn't the front runner and neither is she the crowd favorite. In the long gown and swim suit, it was Kosovo and Dominican Republic who was head to head. Her scores weren't at par with the two. And when the question and answer came, I was convinced she shouldn't have won. Here's a round-up of the questions and answers. I wrote down the questions and translations upon listening.


Dominican Republic

Q: Do u believe that HIV testing should be made mandatory?


Answer: I definitely do believe that necessary tests should be made so that people can prevent AIDS. Because definitely by just being not careful in just one minute, we may lose our own lives.

Australia

Q: In some countries women aren’t allowed to wear swim suits, so how does that make you feel?

A: I believe wearing a swim suit in a pageant is a beautiful thing. Gives everyone of us to show our figures and our toned bodies and what we worked hard for. And I think our bodies is a beautiful part of a woman and that we should show it to the rest of the world.


Puerto Rico

Q: Has being a beautiful woman made your life easier or has it prevented people from taking you seriously especially in business situations?

A: Beauty is a compliment and one must be very organize. One must have her own professional studies and that is why you show and your inner beauty is reflected outside and that makes you look much more beautiful and that’s why people do take me seriously.

Venezuela

Q: In many parts of the world, obstacles still exist that impede women to achieve their goals in some corporations? What can be done to overcome this?

A: I believe that nowadays we women has overcame many obstacles. And I do believe that we have reached the same level as men have. We must realize there are no longer any barriers amongst us.


Kosovo

Q: What is it about fame that makes many people including you want to be famous?

A: All the experiences I’ve had so far and all my experience had given me fame. And I feel like famous, but there are other ways to be famous and those are intelligence and also beauty.


My analysis, Dominican Rep.'s answer was lacking. I mean it could have been better if she used more important words. It seemed like the answer has no meat in it. Too simple but not that impressive. There are simple answers but great answers.

As for Australia, she's got the lousiest answer I'd ever heard. She was asked how it made her feel that some countries aren't allowed to wear swim suits. But she answered that it's a beautiful thing and that she should show her toned sexy body to the rest of the world. WHAT??????!!!! Her answer is too selfish.She didn't even consider the cultures of those countries who doesn't allow it. She could have answered that we need to respect each others cultures and that for those not allowed to wear swim suits, it doesn't make them less of a person or less beautiful. My God, that was some trashy answer. Terrible.

As for Puerto Rico,I think she had the best answer. She was asked if being beautiful became a hindrance to other people to take her seriously. She said that beauty is a compliment but one has to have professional knowledge and be an organize person. Two points. And she added, that this is the time that your inner beauty is reflected outside and that makes others respect you. This is what I call a great answer. Come on, Australia need to take some lessons from her.

And Venezuela, her answer had no meaning at all to me. There was no meat in that answer. No sense. She was asked what women could do to obstacles that prevent them in achieving their goal. And she just said,women has overcame many obstacles? What obstacles girl? What????!!!! And she also said that we must realize there longer any barriers amongst us. What??? Look around you there's a big number of barriers. She didn't even answer the question about what should be done. Plus I didn't like her smile,she was like forcing herself to smile wide showing her teeth. It almost look scary to me. It was too artificial.

And lastly Kosovo, who was the most beautiful and most elegant. She really did look like Audrey Hepburn. But she somehow fell quite short of her answer about what is it about fame. Although, it was a good point of her saying there are other ways to be famous like intelligence. But she wasn't able to give a good answer about why people wanted to be famous.


So If were the judge from their total average; Dominican Republic should have won. First Runner up is Kosovo. Second Runner-up is Puerto Rico. Third Runner-up is Venezuela and Fourth Runner-up is Australia.

Happy 51st Birthday to the One and Only King of Pop, Michael Jackson. I may not have been constant on greeting him on his birthday but It doesn't really matter. I just want to greet him now and remember his good music.

Happy Birthday Michael! I hope you are happy and at peace wherever you are.

Kim Hyun-joong and Lee Min-ho with UEE
Anycall Agent M Magic Hole CF

Hyun-joong and Min-ho are so funny!!! Min-ho is so cute growling being the lion. But I love Leader the most, he's so suave. He's the Asian James Bond, he could definitely give Daniel Craig a run for his money. I love the eye blinking, I almost fainted. Love him here so much, the hair is just perfect for him. And still he's so funny dropping the gun. Adorably cute, funny and sexy Leader.



Credits to: hoonfami

Kim Hyun-joong and UEE
Anycall Magic Hole CF

He's so very handsome as always. And he's so hot. I'm so envious of that girl. He simply takes my breath away every time I see him. And he's getting really better in acting. Simply amazing, that's him.

Credits: All thanks to hurmutube hoonfami

Kim Hyun-joong and Lee Min-ho
Anycall Magic Hole CF

They're both really cute and ridiculously funny.The hair is just so weird and hilarious. I love Leader's expression, I couldn't help myself laughing. He is so very funny. I can't forget that priceless look on his face.The part where they hugged and touched each other's faces was super hilarious. They were like smudging each other's faces. But still they're very handsome especially Leader.


Credits: All thanks to hoonfami and iBreatheLifeMusic

http://roflquiz.com/u/LHajiKei

(Photo courtesy of Boys Before Flowers Fanatics / SS501 Persona Asia Tour Photobook)

The what Korean actor should be your prince? quiz
Your result...

Kim Hyun Joong

congratulation! your prince is Kim Hyun Joong. what a multitalent Korean actor!

Here's a fan cam video of Leader's solo at the Persona Concert in Seoul, August 1 and 2, 2009
He's one one hot guy.

Sexy Back


I was browsing my mail one weekday morning, when I saw this message from Boys Before Flowers Fanatics. They were photos from SS501’s 1st Asia Persona Concert Tour held August 1 and 2, 2009 in Seoul. I checked the photos from the recently mega successful concert in four years. Then there was this photo that really caught my attention. I thought this guy I’m seeing who’s very hot and sexy being topless was Kyu-jung, but I had this thought that it might be Hyun-joong. And damn was I right, it was Leader! OMG! OMG! OMG! I didn’t expect he’d do something as sexy as that because fans know how shy and conservative he can be. Not that I didn’t like it, of course I love it because it’s something he doesn’t usually do. To think that what I saw was just a photo, what more if I see the video itself. I could die anytime from heart attack!


And I did saw the fan cam video of his solo performance at the concert. I was curious how he did it, you know the whole process. My, the introduction was so hot already, it’s sizzling and it’s only on the screen mind you. It was the extended ending to their collection MV. I nearly died there you know when I saw him in the SHOWER!!! I think I’m having a heart attack at that very moment. He’s back, he’s back to his old more sexy body and he’s now even hotter and sexier! Hands down Leader, you worked for it and we love it. I didn’t get to notice his abs during We Got Married on the episodes I saw, but here you can clearly see it even when the video isn’t so good. The abs is so perfect; I don’t know what else to say. I’m at loss of words.

And there he goes, going out from his house and riding his motorbike and doing some exhibition. I just love seeing him in motorbikes. Then there he was at the stage with the smoke effect adding spice to his entrance. Everyone was already shouting crazily, I almost couldn’t hear a thing. Then he started to dance, and then he took his jacket off. And to my surprise there was some kind of a remix to the song, enter a girl dancer who went behind him and hugged him. Oh my god!!! Is this real?! That girl is one lucky and not so lucky girl since she’ll be getting all the hates from fans and she got to hold my Hyun-joong! Then she, strip his shirt open and they started dancing so sexy. I love this added portion. So here is the finale and the climax of the performance, he totally ripped his shirt off. The fans even squealed harder to death. Oh my God, Leader that is one perfect awesomely hot and very sexy performance! Hands down. I am speechless.

I love his body, perfect shape. Not too big and not too small. I like his abs, those 6 pack squares on his stomach and his chest is so masculine,is so fine. And his biceps are back!

Congratulations for the very successful concert Leader!Keep it up and take good care of yourself always!

Forever, The King of Pop

Today is the 40th day since he went ahead of us. There had been news that his passing is planned and that he’s somewhere in Hungary or Moscow living a simple life. I would like to believe this and I would be greatly delighted if it’s really true. It took me some time to finish this entry, finally it’s done.


June 26, Friday Manila time (June 25 Thursday US time) –

I was watching DZMM on television and suddenly I heard something that really caught my attention. I just have to hear it again cause I think it wasn’t right. The anchor said that there were news about the passing of Michael Jackson. What? Is this a joke? I’m sure it is one hell of a big joke. This can’t be real. It just couldn’t be real. Then I heard it again that is confirmed that MJ passed away already on Thursday. What again, I told myself. Why? How? It can’t be. It just didn’t seem real to me at all. Not until I saw some clips on television showing his body being carried by a chopper. At the back of my head, I was OH MY GOD!!! I couldn’t believe it, that of all people it would be MJ. Just following the likes of legends and icons Elvis Presley, James Dean and Marilyn Monroe.

I was born in 1986 and he was born in 1958 and yet the gap didn’t matter at all. I wasn’t able to see him perform then as a kid while he was with the Jackson 5. But I know the Jackson 5 even though I wasn’t born yet when they were bringing waves to the music industry. I even know the song “Ben “. I knew they were an awesome bunch of very talented people.

Fast forward, MJ went solo and on he was at the start of becoming part of history as one of the greatest musicians ever known; as The King of Pop. His first solo album Off the Wall was a massive worldwide success. This cemented his place along with the musical royalties.

His is definitely the most influential music I’ve ever seen since Elvis Presley. Like they said, he is our generation’s ‘Elvis’. His music means so much to me. More than Madonna or any singer now. I know Madonna, yes and she’s the Queen of Pop but Michael’s music was different. His was bigger, different and has more of a vast influence. I know, he’s not the first Black American performer, there was James Brown, Nat King Cole but Michael seemed to be the first to really break out from the usual. MTV and Michael grew up together literally. MTV was only showing then, White American’s music videos and Michael became the first Black to ever be seen on MTV. He changed the norms; he defied the odds and entirely changed the world of music since then. MTV realized they were being left behind.

He was also an innovator; there was no one that time who ever dared make music videos like they were movies. He was a creative thinker. He wanted to make new things. He introduced us the moonwalk, even though he saw it from street kids. He made zombies dance so awesome. He made us sing and dance to the tunes of the world famous Thriller and his countless hits. And he made us swoon with his dance moves and great voice. He made the world’s best selling album of all time. He was a pioneer. A great singer, futuristic songwriter and very good dancer. An all time top performer.

I didn’t know his birthday. I just now he never had any normal life growing up. I didn’t know much about his family. I didn’t know he was married to Deborah Rowe after Lisa Marie. I didn’t know he had kids. But being a fan doesn’t mean having to know everything about him, instead it’s more on what he and his music meant to you as a person. I may not actually know him personally but it seemed like that to me and to other fans as well.

He was notoriously shy ever since he was a youngster. He once said, “I hate to admit it but I feel strange around everyday people. See, my whole life has been onstage and the impression I get of people is applause, standing ovations and running after you. In a crowd, I’m afraid. Onstage, I feel safe. If I could, I would sleep on the stage. I’m serious.”

He’s not some artists today, who just write songs to make a hit, or for the sake of writing. No wonder, most are one-hit wonders these times. Who writes songs to ridicule someone. Who writes trashy lyrics over and over. Who makes monotonous music. His music was never the same and always changing. Who acts like superstars when the next day they’re so over. There’s great innovation, a thing artists should really learn today.

He had been attacked personally by critics, by the people, the media but he was also an ordinary person just like any of us. We didn’t know how he lived his life as a father to his kids. We didn’t know what he was like as normal father living his everyday life. We might not have seen it but I know his kids made him the happiest father and person. I’ve seen it in videos on you tube. He really loved them so dearly. Something I didn’t expect from a man of his stature. Do you see Brangelina playing with their kids and teaching them to dance? Do you picture Britney sitting on the floor playing with puzzles? Or Madonna feeding and wiping his son’s lips? He was a very dedicated father. It is unquestionable.

I never saw him as someone who thought of himself as a powerful man. He didn’t act like Paris Hilton or Lindsay Lohan and Britney Spears. He’s kind to his workers and didn’t treat them as just staff but almost like a close kin already. That time in 2005, I heard that news but I never once said that he’s this or that. It didn’t change how I look at him. Besides, I never believed it. I might not have paid attention that much then because I was busy with school. But I never turned my back on him. When you’re a fan, you shouldn’t just believe anything you hear, see or read. Because this is where your true sense as a fan comes up.

The awful truth is that people will always be greedy. The bigger you are, the harder they will try to bring you down. This is the spiteful reality of life.

Michael, thank you for being with me, for being with us. You will always be the one and only KING OF POP. I will always remember you and your great legacy. He was a man of full top talent. One of the greats we should and will always remember through the times.

His music will continue to live within me as I live. The music can’t stop playing. His music will forever be a part of my human living. I will continue to sing and dance along with his eternal and enduring great music of all time.

Music doesn’t pass away. They live on as time goes by. There’s no end to melodies, to lyrics, to the grooves, to the voice, to the messages. His lyrics were his music. His music was his story. And his story became history.


LONG LIVE THE KING OF POP!!!

HIS MUSIC WILL LIVE FOREVER.

Ji-hoo's White Mini Cooper S


I love this car! I first saw this in The Italian Job,the movie starring Charlize Theron. Anyway,I like this car more now because it's Kim Hyun-joong's car in Boys Before Flowers. It's really adorable and very classy and elegant cute car. I'm not really the type of person who loves flashy expensive speed cars like Jun-pyo's Cadillac and Lotus Elise S. Or even that of Yi-jeong's Lotus Exige S240 and Woo-bin's Lotus Elise SC. I like Ji-hoo's preference when it comes to cars. Simple yet elegant and timeless. Cars like the mini-cooper doesn't go outdated. Unlike the cars like Cadillac and Lotus that eventually go out of fashion in the next few years. If only the car also come in package with Kim Hyun-joong in the flesh!

MV Agusta Superbike

I also love seeing him in this motorbike. I don't know,I just love to see him when he's riding this Massimo Tamburini-designed MV Agusta Superbike. He looks really hot in this bike especially with the helmet on and then he slowly takes it off and then he smiles.Oh my!!!He could definitely make someone palpitate really fast!And this cost around 30 to 40 million won. I don't like riding in bikes but if it's Kim Hyun-joong,I'd go anywhere with him!

Rhea and me at the Imax Mall of Asia, July 25, 2009
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince screening

3D Harry Potter Experience

Finally,we were able to watch Half Blood Prince last night.It's one week delayed,we should have been able to watch last Saturday,but everything is full. We ended up buying tickets one week ahead. We had no choice. It was on me by the way. It was the week of my birthday,July 16 so I paid for two tickets. The last time I watched at IMAX was last year's July 17 with Dark Knight with Rhea again.

I was pretty early and I even got lost. I was there at 5:00 PM and I went strolling. Rhea arrived at near 7:00 PM,I went out the wrong way. I was looking for McDo but I can't find it. We were at IMAX at 7:30PM,it was already 7:45PM as printed in the ticket but they weren't letting people come in yet. It was already 8:00PM when they opened the door. The movie started late,it started at 8:15PM.

For the first time,we had the 3D glasses.Because the first 15 minutes of the movie is on 3D. So when it started,it was really WOW!It looks so big,so real and so clear!It seemed like the characters is coming out from the screen. It almost felt like I can touch them,they were so near. The title credits even seemed like it's gonna crash on my face. The things seemed like flying out from the screen to you. It's beyond imagination.

Happy 2oth Birthday to Daniel Radcliffe!!!

Today is the birthday of one of my favorite actors and top crushes,Daniel Jacob Radcliffe. To Daniel,happy happy birthday. I really fell in love with him since I first saw him in Sorcerer's Stone,he was so adorably cute then and he's really handsome and mature now. He's definitely gone a long way since the first Potter movie. He has absolutely improved his craft at acting.He's gone better and better by the days. I would have really wanted to see him on stage in Equus, he was brilliant as Alan. It was a bold move since Harry Potter has been associated with him ever since,but he did great!


I wish him more blessings in life, more good projects after Harry Potter.Good health and more success. I hope he gets a girlfriend someday. He's always been a very modest person I think,that is what is so lovable about him. He doesn't feel like he's a star or something. He stays the same as he used to be.


Again,happy birthday Daniel! I wish you all the best! I hope I can see you in person someday.

Watching MJ

I went to Robinson's Manila today not to go shopping or to meet someone; neither to see a movie. I went to Robinson's to watch Michael Jackson's public concert viewing in Midtown Wing of Robinson's Manila and to buy a few more albums and DVD concert. I was just there sitting and enjoying watching Michael Jackson: Live at Bucharest from a big screen. I was there at 3:00PM and bought a 4 more albums and 1 concert DVD.When I arrived at 3:00 PM the concert was about to end when I finally found a seat. I read from the mini-poster that it's from 2:00PM to 8:00PM. So when it ended, I went to pee and got back immediately. They just replayed the concert. I watched the complete concert twice straight without standing. The first one was when it was about to end.

I was about to go at 7:30PM after the song," She's Out Of My Life " but I changed my mind and decided to stay and finished the whole thing till 8:00 PM. It's one of my way of paying my very high respects to the King of Pop. It felt like I was watching him LIVE! The big screen was a big help. I already have a copy of it,that's the one I bought but I stayed because of the big screen. When you watch Michael,a big screen like that is just about right.


I don't wanna cry in public. I just enjoyed watching the concert a lot. He is definitely ONE OF A KIND. It is awesome top performance and production to it's highest level. He's the only one who can do something like that. The energy is just over the top,it's addicting and electrifying.He never seems to get tired. From start to finish,it's a highly electrifying terrific concert from no less than the King of Pop. As expected from the King,the one and only King.


You're the greatest,Michael. You are irreplaceable. The greatest performer ever graced the earth. Hail, the King of Pop!

Your fantasy boyfriend is Harry Potter.
We don't need to read your tea leaves to know that you are meant to be with "the boy who lived." Harry makes you feel like you're under a magic spell, and he doesn't have to shout any Latin words to do it. No matter how many lives your wizard-boy saves, he never lets it go to his head. He doesn't want to be adored -- he just wants to hold your hand at a Quidditch game or take you into Hogsmeade for a warm butterbeer. Even when Harry acts like a regular boyfriend, though, you never forget how magical he is. Aww... give his lightning bolt scar a little kiss for us.

http://www.the-n.com/quizzes/quiz_main.php

Quizzes Girls Games

HARRY POTTER QUIZ
Harry Potter mania swept the world in 2007 as Order of the Phoenix hit screen and the final book arrived. Find out if you're a quiz wizard or a muggle!
YOUR RESULTS
You got 9 out of 10
.
Forget OWLs, you're clearly a NEWT student ready to challenge even Hermione's encyclopaedic knowledge of Hogwarts: A History! Congratulations, you've done our favourite school for magic proud.

CORRECT ANSWERS
QUESTION 1
Voldemort has hidden part of himself in:
ANSWER : Nagini the snake

QUESTION 2
Cho Chang is in which Hogwarts school house?
ANSWER : Ravenclaw

QUESTION 3
Who is Pansy Parkinson romantically interested in:
ANSWER : Draco Malfoy

QUESTION 4
Which animagus betrayed Harry's father, Prongs?
ANSWER : Wormtail

QUESTION 5
What is the first name of Mrs Dursley?
ANSWER : Petunia

QUESTION 6
Which of these is NOT one of the Forbidden Curses:
ANSWER : Excrutianus

QUESTION 7
By what name are the employees of the Department of Mysteries known:
ANSWER : Unspeakables

QUESTION 8
What type of magic is Snape teaching Harry in Book 5 to help him protect his mind:
ANSWER : Occlumency

QUESTION 9
The ancient magic which saved the infant Harry Potter from the curse of Lord Voldemort was that of:
ANSWER : Love

QUESTION 10
Which of these characters do we meet first in Harry Potter and the Philospher's Stone?
ANSWER : McGonagall



* I took this Harry Potter quiz on Bio Channel's website and I got 9 out of 10. I'm a super certified Harry Potter fan, this assures it. I just made a mistake at item #10. I can actually beat Hermione.

Wimbledon 2009

It’s all been about the absence of Rafael Nadal. Then everyone went agog with Federer, from his long overdue French Open victory last month. And with Murray, being the British hope. Also, with the other Andy, Andy Roddick. Well, I’m neither a Murray fan nor a Roddick fan but I do like Federer. But I like Djokovic best and Marat Safin. Even though Marat is going to retire at the end of the year, I still love him. Besides, he’s been there. He knows exactly how it feels up there. He feels great about himself. He had great comebacks and that’s a nice way to retire.

Anyway, Djokovic has been overshadowed by the Federer – Murray anticipated finals boo-gaa-boo. However, this doesn’t make him any less of a threat. Remember, the biggest threat is the one you don’t notice. Like he said, it’s better playing low- key because the pressure is lesser. He lets Federer and Murray enjoy all the attention.

Nole, a 2007 semi – finalist here and 2008 Australian Open champion; lost to Marat Safin last year 2008 in the first round. Well I couldn’t blame him; Marat is definitely one of the best players in his generation. Nole is great player but maybe Marat was a bit too strong that time. Nole is in the last 16, he won his fourth round match with Dudi Sela, the 46th ranked from Israel.

I’m crossing my fingers; I desperately want Nole to win this one. It would really be a surprise to all who’s been all heads on Federer and Murray. It would be a big spoil to the British fans hoping for Murray to end the long British title holder drought. I really hope Nole trashes Federer and Murray or whoever gets into the finals. GO NOLE! YOU CAN DO THIS! FIGHTING! GAMBARE!

A Game on a Saturday

After having it postponed due to heavy rains last Friday, finally I was able to play my favorite game with Rhea. I've been dying to play since it's been quite a while when I last played. And I really wanted to sweat myself out,I had a rough week that time and I haven't been feeling well. I just want to play and play as long as I could. I wanted to exhaust myself so much. I felt way better at the end of the day.

I was 30 minutes late on Saturday,I had to treat her for the price of P100.00. We arrived at Badminton City around 11:20 in the morning. There weren't much of a crowd then which is good. We started playing around 11:30 AM just the two of us. Then we had a some 20 minute rest then we played again. We didn't have lunch, I only ate a hot dog sandwich at 1:00PM and Rhea didn't eat anything at all. We weren't hungry, I don't know. I haven't had breakfast but Rhea did.

It was a good feeling to sweat myself out, to exhaust myself. It felt like all the bad vibes are getting drained out from me. I was sweaty and my shirt's all wet but I felt really better. I was in no poise at all,besides I'm a no-poise girl. When you're playing badminton,you hardly think of poise at all.I even stumbled running for a shot twice. It just gave me a laugh, I didn't even feel any pain.

We had doubles with a pair of guys but it's just play no scores. But we had a match with a pair of students. I was quite uneasy with the new scoring,it's been long ago since I played with scoring. That time,it was the old scoring then. I wasn't just used to it, I guess.

We were about to leave at 3:30 PM after the game with the students but we continued to play along. Then a pair of guys,they don't look like students to me asked us to play with a match with them. We were pretty tired by then but we agreed to the match. It was a mix doubles match,Rhea and I are opponents. The other guy even asked who's better with the two of us. I don't wanna sound " mayabang " so I was kinda hesitant to answer. He was asking because he wants the pairing to be balance cause he had a better experience than the other guy. So I told him I used to be a varsity in high school.

I'm not quite sure who really won the match, I think it was me and my partner. We won the first set and we were leading on the 2nd set. Therefore, I think it was us who won. My partner was pretty good,so is Rhea's partner. It was our last game, we ended up leaving at 5:00PM when we initially planned to leave at 3:00PM. The people who came the same time and who came later than us all left ahead of us. Blimey,we're pretty tough we lasted that long! Maybe we played for like 4 hours or 4 1/2 hours minus the rest.

I'd love to play every week, just for exercise. I hope I could be able to do it. It will really make me feel better. I just love being on the action playing badminton and sweating it all out. I've never been better.

It's Kim Hyun Joong's Birthday!

Today is June 6, Saturday and it's the date of birth of my beloved Kim Hyun Joong. He turned 23 today, because he was born in the year 1986 just like me. So that means we're just the same age. Even though, Hyun Joong won't read this,I'm still very grateful to greet him a Happy Happy Birthday! I wish him all the best in all his endeavors! I wish him good health, more blessings, more good projects and everything the world could offer. I wish he could visit Manila so I could see him in person, me and all of his millions of adoring fans here in the Philippines. I hope he'd act more,do more tv dramas or maybe movies. I would just love to see him act in another tv drama again!

He's just a very lovable person. He's really funny without even trying to be funny. He's humble and very nice to talk to. And he's awesomely talented! He has good personality that matches his looks and talents. I'm so grateful I got to know him through Boys Over Flowers. No one could ever play the role of Rui Hanazawa ( Yoon Ji Hoo) better than him. He fits the role to a tee. He's just perfect for it. Besides,I've always loved Rui from the start,since the time of Meteor Garden and I loved all the three actors who portrayed the character.

Again,Happy Birthday Kim Hyun Joong,be happy always and just always be the same good person that you are! More power to you! We love you!

Lucky 3

Kim Hyun Joong, Vic Zhou and Oguri Shun
My 3 Most Loved. I really love the three of them. They were the best to portray the role on their own distinctive ways.

Addicted to Boys Over Flowers

Six years after Meteor Garden comes the Korean version, Boys Over Flowers or Boys Before Flowers that became a mega phenomenon of 2009. I was so addicted to Meteor Garden in 2003 in my freshman year. I’d be rushing home when my last class is finally done. I even had posters then of F4 especially Zai Zai, what fans call Vic Zhou who played Hua Ze Lei (Hanazawa Rui). I even bought the original soundtrack of the series which was a big deal to me already. I practically love everything about the television series from Taiwan.

In 2005, came the Japanese version with the same title of the manga; Hana Yori Dango. However, this one was aired on GMA-7 who dubs awfully. But I did like HYD, I also became a fan but particularly it was because I like Shun Oguri who played Hanazawa Rui. He wasn’t really that handsome, but he had this special aura and appeal.

I never thought, I’d still be this addicted for the third time. When I first read about plans to do a Korean version, it was initially an off idea to me. I just thought that, doing another version was over the top already. But thanks to Boys Over Flowers, I got to meet another person who became my instant crush, Kim Hyun Joong who played Yoon Ji-hoo (Hanazawa Rui).

However, BOF proved my doubts wrong. When it was finally aired in Korea, it was an instant massive it and becoming the phenomenal series of 2009. It was very much applauded by millions of fans and critics alike. I thought then, this might not be bad at all. When I heard ABS-CBN got the rights to air it on local tv, I was extremely thrilled. I wanted to see badly what people have been raving about from Korea to everywhere.

The trailer from ABS-CBN was really cute and funny. I did like the girl, she has her own persona as Geum Jan Di (Makino Tsukushi ). Although sometimes, she goes overboard with her acting but she’s likable still. I can never compare her to Barbie Xu or Inoue Mao. She definitely has made a new trend for the character. Of course, this is not saying that Barbie Xu and Inoue Mao did badly. She’s played by Koo ( Goo ) Hye Sun. Well, I haven’t really heard of her before. The five of them were practically newbie’s and up and coming Hallyu stars.

Lee Min Ho, who plays the same role Jerry Yan did 6 years ago, was also fit for the part as Goo Jun-pyo. Honestly, he has some close resemblance to Jerry Yan. He looks like Jerry Yan’s younger brother. But still, Jerry Yan remains to be the best for the role of Tsukasa Domyouji, but not because he was the original. Lee Min-Ho was okay however, he seems to be a bit lacking as compared to Jerry Yan's Dao Ming Si. And for Matsumoto Jun, well he is good looking but I think he made the character funny which isn’t supposed to be..

The last but not the least, my favorite character – Hanazawa Rui. In Meteor Garden, I was a Hua Ze Lei fan. In Hana Yori Dango, I was again rooting for Hanazawa Rui. Now Boys Over Flowers and I still like the same character, Yoon Ji-hoo this time. I really wanted that Shan Cai would end up with Lei instead. Not that I didn’t like Jerry Yan or Dao Ming Si of course. Until the Japanese came, I thought I’d change preference that time but I didn’t. When I first saw, Kim Hyun Joong as Yoon Ji-hoo, I was a little apprehensive at first. I didn’t like the way they did with his hair. It was just too long. I was quite undecided as to whose side I am this time, Ji-hoo or Jun- pyo ( Dao Ming Si / Tsukasa Domyouji ).

When I watched the first episode and the following episodes, I finally decided that I’m for Ji-hoo. When you look at his face closely, it feels like WOW. He really looks like a perfect gentleman, sensitive, handsome, down to earth, mysterious and quiet. He was totally perfect for the part; he was so much in character. Although in real life KHJ is actually more hyper than YJH, but still humble and a nice person like his role. It’s all in there you see, his face and his eyes are so beautiful. He’s even prettier than Jan-di especially in the part where he was looking at a billboard of Seo-hyeon.

I like all the guys who portrayed my favorite loved character, but I can’t compare one from the other. The three of them had different ways of portraying the role. But you know that there’s still the unique Rui- factor. Of course, it’d be ridiculous to do the same thing. Kim Hyun Joong is actually a singer – leader of the SS501 boy band. I think this was his first acting role. He’s good for an amateur to be honest, not because I’m so in love with this guy right now.

I really enjoyed the series. And still enjoying now on its replay run on tv. I’ve seen the best of three, Meteor Garden; Hana Yori Dango and Boys Over Flowers. Although I have yet to finish Boys Over Flowers English sub, but I’m really impressed already. I must be the only one left in the world who hasn’t seen BOF English sub yet. It may be the same story, but I like the fact that they did some really good changes that makes it a lot more exciting and refreshing.

It was a great relief that ABS-CBN got the rights. If it wasn’t, my god how terrible the dubbing could have been. And the fact that ABS-CBN is so good when it comes to publicity makes the series even more popular with the public. Although, I did like Hana Yori Dango as well, I still prefer ABS-CBN’s dubbing.

I certainly have a new addition to my dreamboats, Kim Hyun Joong. He is actually the closest to Rui in the manga. It looks to me like, it was tailored for him. No one could play the role better than him. I’m really glad he was the one they’ve chosen. If not, I would not have met such a wonderful and very talented guy. He’s actually dub as the hottest in Korea, he’s been topping almost every survey in the hottest property category. He’s a very lovable guy, very down to earth and funny without even trying to sound funny. He’s such a sweetie and a cutie. His smile brings a breath of fresh air to me. It feels so calm and happy when I see him smile. Now I have Vic Zhou, Oguri Shun and Kim Hyun Joong. He is surreal. It feels great.

Art at the Wright Park

I’m not some kind of an artsy person. I really don’t know anything about arts or paintings per se. When I was in Baguio, I saw this really pretty painting lined up in a corner as we were on our way back from The Mansion. Rhea did some bargain talk to the artist; we ended up buying each for us for a very reasonable price.

I don’t know the title of the painting. I don’t remember asking the artist and him telling me. I quickly picked the one out of ordinary. The dominant colors is gray, I really like how it feels so mysterious. I also liked what Rhea has chosen, but I’ve seen lots of those kinds already. It was actually my first time to buy a painting. It’s not for me though; I’ll give it to my Mom. It would look nice as an interior décor at home.

Everyday Trekking in Baguio

I had my very first vacation outside my home town. I was in Baguio during the holy week with Rhea. I’m used to traveling alone, but I’m not that accustomed in Baguio yet. I don’t remember going there or maybe I was just too young then to remember. We almost didn’t make it, it was quite late when we finally decided to pursue with the plan. We didn’t have problem with the tickets, the problem is with the accommodation. We were only lucky to have found a cheap transient house.

We were there for four days. It rained in the afternoon on our first day, so we ended up going home early. We went to Mines View Park; Wright Park; The Mansion; Camp John Hay; Crystal Cave; Easter Weaving; Baguio Cathedral; Burnham Park; Bell Church; Strawberry Farm and Tam-Awan Village.

I’m used to walking but in Baguio, it’s a different matter. I guess people there might already leg muscles. The roads and the streets are all in an upslope. It’s like you’re trekking everyday. It’s really tiring to walk when you’re going up of course. But I love the air, so clean, fresh and cool. Though at lunch until the afternoon, it’s quite hot.

I tried some of the local restaurants there. Rhea was on a fasting mood so I ate alone. I ordered boneless bangus and samurai crepe on the day of Friday in Zola. The food was fine; I like the interior of the resto. I don’t really like the red color but I appreciate the red in Zola and the lighting too. I ordered the next day at Sizzling Plate a porterhouse that was too much for me. It was my first time splurging on food so expensive like this. It was good, could have been better if I ate it hot. The interior was some kind of a cowboy inspired look.

Let’s talk about stairs. I don’t even remember how many steps have I climbed. I was too tired to even count. My legs were extremely taking its toll on me. We first had to climb a stair at the Baguio Cathedral. To our dismay, we later found out that there was an easier way without climbing the stairs. But the hardest was when we were to climb the stairs at Lourdes Grotto and the fact that it was raining made it twice as hard. It seemed to be our sacrifice.

It felt nice doing that for my self. I’ve always wanted to go on some traveling. From time to time, I’m going to have some trips outside the city; if my finances and my schedule permit me to do so. I would love to have my next stop at Puerto Galera.

It’s really beautiful in Baguio despite the increase of the population there. I wished I could have studied there. It’s really relaxing and calming to live there than here in Manila. It was a nice trip for me; I enjoyed every part of it and Rhea’s company of course.

One Half (Yi Ban) - Jerry Yan

Hot Shot Soundtrack

(Photo by Janice Sabnal )
article.wn.com

Summer Rain

I hate the rain. But I also hate the sun. People just couldn’t get enough, do they? It’s been raining since I got back from Baguio last 13. This is so unusual in the Philippines especially in Manila, to be raining like this in summer. Is this another sign of global warming are we seeing? I don’t really remember having summer here where it’s raining. I honestly think, this is only happening now.

Like I said, I hate the rain especially when the city goes flooded. How can I even manage to go home, without letting my feet get dip in dirty canal water? That’s just gross. It really sucks when it floods. It happens all the time, more so when it rains hard or when there’s a typhoon. Then I see kids at our neighborhood enjoying the rain, and the flood that instantly became their public swimming pool. The kids are enjoying along with floating cockroaches and rats on the road.

However, I’m not saying that I like the sun. I don’t like the sun either and its scorching heat. It’s really a pain whenever its summer here especially in Manila. Thank God, I had the chance to go to Baguio and have a breather from the sweltering heat in the metro. I love Baguio; it’s really nice to live there. Besides, it’s nearer to my province. I even thought of relocating there, if there will be chances. I’d definitely love to go back especially when it’s really hot in Manila.

Summer Rain, this might be the first time I’d ever experience such summer in Manila. It’s really weird to be seeing rain, even floods in a season we call summer. Perhaps, we should change how we call it then. Maybe we should just call it the Summer Rain season.

The Red Shield

The Red Shield, a righteous term to describe this awesome vintage car. I got the term from Blood +, wherein Red Shield is a powerful organization in pursuit of Chiropterans. Anyway, we’re not in pursuit of Chiropterans here; instead we’re in pursuit of nice cars.

We accidentally saw this car, while walking along Session Road in Baguio. It might belong to a restaurateur, who owns one of the establishments along Session Road. It was really striking; we couldn’t resist not taking pictures of it. The guy’s got such a nice looking car I’ve ever seen. I could only dream. I’m not really a car junkie kind of person. I’m not into cars or any that involves auto mechanics. But I just really find this car to be so beautiful. To whoever who owns it, he must be rich and lucky.

April 25, 2009
2:00 AM

Two in the Morning

I’m writing this at exactly 2:00 AM. As to why I’m still up, I just feel like doing it. It’s been a while since I’ve been up this late. I’m still awake even though I have to go to work tomorrow. Besides, I don’t need to go early cause it’s a Saturday. Plus the fact that I hate going to work on Saturdays, but oh well I don’t have a choice. It may seem like my punishment for my absenteeism last April 13. What’s done is done.

I’ve been busying myself at this wee hour watching Blood + Episode 23, which I missed earlier during Studio 23 primetime. I’ve been taking pictures of Haji by pausing the episodes and taking a close good shot of him with my phone. You see, I love this guy a lot; more than I do with the real bastard one.

It’s just real quiet at this hour and I really liked it. I don’t work in a call center but I’m used to this type of sleeping habit. And I just love to be alone at times, in this quiet hour in the comfort of my very own sanctuary. My mind tends to wander at these times.

I remember, I’ve been wondering for almost the whole day; if someone has been bothered these past few weeks. But I guess, he isn’t bothered at all. I’m sure by the way I know him, he’ll just call it nothing out of ordinary. Anyway, I don’t have any business with him anymore. I just hope it will stay like this permanently.

I will likely end this night with a few pages of Norwegian Wood, which I’m rereading now. I’ve always done this at night especially during Friday nights. I’d stay up as late as 4:00 AM just with the pleasure of my book. So from here on, I guess I’m about to take some few pages and sleep. So I’m off.

Two in a Row


It’s been two years since I graduated college. Looking back, I couldn’t help but feel discontented and disgusted about myself and what I’ve really become. We were rooted with the notion that, if you graduate with honors in college; things will open much better for you. But they were wrong and we were wrong to believe such a false predicament. With all the discrimination surrounding in this crappy country, it wasn’t as easy as they wanted us to think it will be. I hate it when I see some ads that say, “WE PREFER GRADUATES OF LA SALLE, ATENEO, UP “. I really hate it, sure I wanted to get to UP then and I had nothing against these schools. However, this is a form of ridicule. I mean, how can someone get a fair chance; when at the start you’ve been put down already? Another scenario, when a clever kid from a not – so high end school luckily landed a job in super elite company; the discrimination is all over him. Just being with people from the Big 3; seniors and others; and the way they look at you is nothing but mockery.

My official first taste was as an Events and Communication Assistant in a health related company in Makati. I did like the work and I found most people there to be really nice and accommodating for an amateur like me. I’ve never really been someone who’s headstrong and beaming with overzealous confidence. But they were really friendly to me, especially Ate Irene, Kuya Bombet and Ms. Leizel. I had a good time staying with their company except for one. I really like my job, I get to write with the newsletter, although it’s wasn’t really rigorous writing but I like it. And, I get to exercise my lay outing skills. Apart from these, I do events once in a while. It was practically just me most of the time. I only get some help with Ms. Leizel and Kuya Noel but majority was all upon me. But then, one couldn’t be so happy.

I spent two months finding a replacement job. I did get to be accepted in a certain company, but I just had this nagging feeling that something wasn’t right. Then I finally landed a job in a public relations firm. At first, everything seemed to be doing well because everything was so new to me. I didn’t really care much about politics then. This was really at par with my previous work. But this work made me more aware about politics and media; it wasn’t actually a bad thing at all. However, after a year or so; it just really started to be just the same. I feel as if I’m walking on circles, not knowing where I’m headed. I’m really no better, I’m no good. I’m not even sure of what I’ve actually become. I’ve never even practiced my writing for the past year. I’ve been stagnant; I don’t think I’m ever using my head anymore. I’m not reaching my full capacity and the worse, I stopped learning and developing. Let’s just say, I’m bored as if I’m getting swallowed by a big shadow. Although, I also had bored sessions then but not really like this. Maybe I’m just looking for some adventure but neither am I looking for torture.

On one side, I’m not saying I don’t like my work now. I’m okay but I’m no better. I also like the people here a lot; they seem to be like a new family. I get some extra pay once in a while and I’m not just talking about over time. Although it still isn’t enough, this is beside the point. However, I know it would really help a lot. They’re really good to me particularly boss number 2. Even though he isn’t boss number one; B2 is the most generous and nicest among them. Unlike the previous one I had who wasn’t approachable in any way. However, I have to admit a fact, I think I like my old job better. I just need to be honest with myself but I like the people here better. That maybe because, were just five in the firm; unlike my previous work wherein where like 25 or something.

I honestly feel like I should do something else, other than what I’m doing now. I’m not even sure if I should start looking for a new job right now. Maybe, it could do better if I do get in that freelance writing job I applied. I just hope they call soon for the orientation. I hope I’m not getting my hopes wasted. I’m sure it will perk up my senses; my head; my body and my dormant being. If I can’t enroll this year for masterals, I might as well just enroll for a language course or some photography; writing workshops I could find. If I can’t find any chance of development in my work now, then I’ll just have to find something on my own.

I just feel so worthless at times. I think this life is stupid. I just have to do something. Something that I’m not doing as of the moment.

Kei and Hikari

2 April 09

S.A.

Special A, I’ve discovered this anime series quite late on tv5. I wasn’t able to start the series; I think the episode I first saw was episode 16 or something. It’s almost nearing the end of the series. However, I immediately fell in love with the series despite not being able to watch the first episodes. The series is so wacky, funny, and romantic all at the same time. And I really like the characters especially Kei Takishima, one of the main protagonists in the series. I can really relate to him, we’re alike in almost all possible ways. He’s cold, quiet, stoic, mysterious, confident and devoted independent teen who sneers a lot, and can be a bully. I on the other hand, also quite cold, mysterious, stoic, devoted but I don’t sneer and I’m not a bully. Well he’s actually the bully.

It’s a story of rivalry and how you find love in it. Hikari is a daughter of a chief carpenter who’s been brought up to be almost good at anything she gets into. From sports to academics and anything she could want to be involved with. Her father is an avid wrestling fan who’s friends with Satoro Takishima, the Chairman of the Takishima Group who is also Kei’s father. Satoro introduced Kei to Hikari and thus began the rivalry between Kei and Hikari. Hikari challenged Kei to a wrestling match only to be beaten up badly by Kei. Since then, Hikari had sworn to herself that she will never give up until she beats Kei. She even enrolled at Hakusen Academy, the most prestigious school in Japan just to tail Kei.


In Hakusen, Kei is the top student in the whole school and Hikari is second. Kei loves to call her Miss Rank Two. The top seven students are called S.A. However, unknown to Hikari, Kei has been in love with her since they were kids. A known fact that Kei doesn’t deny and that six of the other S.A. members are aware of. Hikari, being the dense that she is, couldn’t even notice Kei’s feelings towards her despite his cool and cold bullying manner to her at times. He never did try to confess to Hikari because he knows she won’t understand it.


I did have almost the same experience in high school. We didn’t have an S.A. class with only the top seven students, but we did have a star section wherein I and this boy were members. There’s this boy who’s not from my neighborhood but became my enemy or rival in academics, sports and extracurricular. We weren’t the first and second in the whole school respectively. During freshman year, he was actually ahead of me. He was fourth while I finished sixth during the end of the school year. But it wasn’t until we were in our sophomore year that things started to heat up between us. He became really talkative and annoying. He’s bursting with confidence like he’s the most handsome and most intelligent teen around in school. During sophomore year, things turned around in favor of my side. That’s when I started to beat him in academics, sports and extracurricular activities. I finished fifth and he was eight I guess. We were like cats and dogs. Always barking at each other every time we cross paths. I don’t know what’s wrong with him but it’s me who he teases a lot and bullies if you might call that bullying. He really was getting to my nerves then and I almost hated him for that.

While Kei and Hikari were childhood friends, I and that boy weren’t. The foundation of Kei and Hikari’s relationship friendly or romantic is so well cultivated, that they came to know and trust each other really well. Unlike us, we just met on our freshman year and we didn’t actually become close or become friends for that matter. But like Kei, I sadly ended up developing feelings for that boy. And like Kei, I’m devoted to him to the point that when he needs help I’m there always. Like Kei, I never got the nerves to confess because I’m sure the feelings not the same. But unlike Kei, Hikari loves him but she just doesn’t know how to deal with it. Like Kei, the girl he loves is so dense that she notices the unimportant things and not the important things. Like Kei, I was and am a martyr. Like Kei, I become extremely happy when he shows even the most minor kindness.

I’m Kei you see and he is Hikari. He didn’t actually challenged me to contests then, but we constantly argue as to who is better and more clever. He kept on insisting that he’s better than me at anything. He pisses me off almost everyday of our high school life as classmates. Like Hikari said to Kei, Kei was the most irritating but the most intelligent person she ever met. I must admit, that boy was and is way better than me in numbers or in Chemistry and Physics. But I am and I was way better in others. And it’s a fact that he’s the most irritating person I’ve ever met, but not exactly the most intelligent until now. Although, he did have some similarities to Kei when it comes to being proud, bossy and loves to annoy me.


In the end, Hikari sees Kei as not only a rival but a special friend and the person that she loves. And that she will also protect him at all costs. Kei on the other hand, has long been in love with Hikari. And that he will stop at nothing just to protect and help her. Me, I’ve been truthful and helpful to him. I have always regarded him as someone special since junior year. However, he doesn’t see me the way like Hikari regards Kei. Unlike Kei and Hikari who treats each other in a special romantic way, we don’t. So we’re not going to end up like Kei and Hikari who found love along the way of their rivalry.

Even though how much hope I have, it’s never going to be like it. We’re never going that way, not like Kei and Hikari.

Music Video of Blood + especially dedicated to Haji and Saya fans with This Love by Angela Aki playing on the background. Another of my favorite anime's ever. One of the best I've ever seen or has ever been created. It's like a movie. And I love Haji very much.

Fan music video dedicated to Special A fans especially Kei and Hikari fans. I really liked this anime,so funny and romantic. I love Kei,sorry Hikari.

30 March

Blood +

I’ve had the pleasure of watching for the first time, Blood +. It’s the newest anime to hit Studio 23, based on the 6th all time best selling anime Blood: The Last Vampire. Well it immediately became one of my favorite anime’s that was ever created. It was really brilliant and infectious. From the characters to the story itself, everything was remarkable. This anime has really got me hooked. It has the aura of something marvelous. It’s not just simple anime. It’s something worth of an award. Even the soundtrack is spectacular. How can an anime be this great? It’s really a WOW. I loved everything from the first time I ever graced my eyes on it. And I am absolutely fascinated about Haji, I love this man. He’s drop dead gorgeous. He has this mysterious, deep, cold and somewhat dark stoic presence in him. He’s so irresistible. Apart from being stunningly good looking, he’s definitely a strong man who stands on his words and his duties. He’s extremely loyal especially to Saya and he really loves her a lot.

I’m absolutely enjoying much of the anime right now. It’s really a great series. I hope the makers would make a second part of it. The fans would really love to have it. Although, I haven’t finished the series yet, I’ve read a whole lot of great feedbacks and comments. I did some researching and it’s going to be really great.


Special A

I just discovered this series just last Saturday. It was awful of me not to be able to have started this one. I really enjoyed the episodes I was able to watch last Saturday. It was really a funny series. And I really like Kei Takishima, he’s such a bomb. Poor him, he fell for the seemingly eternal dense Hikari. But they do look great together. I like this series because I can relate to it. It’s in a high school setting in Hakusen Academy, the most prestigious school in Japan. Here, the students are divided from A to F depending on their grades. Those that belong to A are called S.A. Kei firmly holding the top position and Hikari being the second forever.

Hikari and Kei have been rivals according to Hikari who never stops at any rate to challenge him. But at any rate, she always ends up losing to Kei. Kei on the other had continues to bug her a lot. I really like how the competition works for their relationship as friends and as lovers. I used to have a somewhat similar experience in high school. There used to be this guy classmate who bugs me a lot and we were rivals but we weren’t exactly the first and second in the curriculum. But we were still bitter rivals until now. Anyway, I’m loving this series and I’m really loving Kei as well.

The Scoundrel


I haven’t had the pleasure in the presence of a guy named Kennedy. He’s been out doing some rude and unacceptable things ever since he came out crashing my peaceful existence. The latest was him having me to do his stupid speech as the guest speaker in his old elementary school. I was fooled again by the same old damn guy who’s been doing the same to me all along. I was silly for letting someone like him make me his errand girl for everything he can’t do. I wasn’t supposed to help him that time. But he already accepted because I already agreed.

But then, he made a fool out of me again. This time, I cannot forgive him anymore. Besides, how could you forgive someone who never apologizes? He was never the kind to say sorry and atone for his mistakes. He did say sorry once. I was just about to finish his stupid speech when he sent me a message telling he backed out. I was so pissed off; I’d really want to slap him hard in the face. He said some unintelligent and obvious lies like he needs to know his priorities and that he’s busy with his review. Heck, like he just started his review yesterday. And all he could say to me was his thank you. I don’t need his thank you; he can have it all to himself. I just happen to have my time and efforts wasted again on him. And he wasn’t able to think of this, my time and efforts. How naïve and dense could he ever get?


Come to think of it, if he was actually a friend he would have thought of not wasting my time before he did that. I should have known, he could never actually do that. It’s just not his way of doing. He’s scared to death just to stand in a crowd and talk. I’ve done enough and I’ve had enough. I’m pretty sure he’d never felt any pang of regret to any of his doings. He’ll never be going to feel like something is odd. He’ll never be able to notice anything. Because he’s a toad; a scoundrel; a bad ass who never felt anything. This is my last time being nice to him. It’s going to end here.

Star Crossed Lovers by Duke Ellington

This is the favorite song of Hajime from South of the Border,West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami.I really like this jazz song now. I used to wonder what the song was like when I'm reading South of the Border,West of the Sun. Now, I know why Hajime likes this song a lot.

Commemorating Heath Ledger’s Unending Flair and Cleverness

In Tuesday’s replay of the 81st Academy Awards shown at Studio 23, I was more excited to watch the awards night this time. I was waiting for the awarding of the Oscar Best Supporting Actor. In January, I first heard about Heath Ledger’s Academy Award best supporting actor nomination for The Dark Knight. I really wished in the depths of my heart that he will win it. He deserves the nomination more than anyone else. Not because he’s not with us here anymore. But because his performance as the menacing Joker will go down the history of cinema as one of the best big screens villains. And arguably one of the best performances of an actor that ever graced the movie screens. He definitely has left us a legacy as one of the best actors in his generation.


I was rejoicing for the sweep win of Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire because I really fell in love with the movie even though I haven’t seen The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Reader, Milk and Frost Nixon. I’m sure each of the other nominees for best picture is beautiful in their own right. I already knew that Heath Ledger won because I saw the live forecast on Monday and he deserved it in an utmost manner. But the feeling was really overpowering on Tuesday when I exactly saw Kevin Kline presented him the best supporting actor.


“ This striking film images, perhaps the most unforgettable is that of a man with his face smeared with a clown make- up ; gleefully spitting his head out of a speeding car; relishing in the night wind and reveling in the chaos he has unleashed on the streets of Gotham City. “


"Menacing, mercurial, droll and diabolical," co-presenter Kevin Kline summarized as he listed Ledger among the supporting actor nominees.


“Heath Ledger as the Joker in the Dark Knight kept us all on edge anxious to see what act of falling mischief he might commit next with his revering performance as well as a wide range of other roles to which he put his unique signature. Heath Ledger has left us an original and enduring legacy. “


I was crying then when his parents, Kim Ledger and Sally Bell with his sister Kate Ledger walked up the stage to accept his award in behalf of his daughter Matilda.


“This is ever so humbling being in such wonderful people in a wonderful industry. Firstly, we’d like to thank the academy for recognizing our son’s amazing work, Warner Bros. and Christopher Nolan in particular for allowing Heath the creative license to develop and explore this crazy Joker character. To Steve Alexander, Heath’s mentor, special friend and agent for 10 years. We Love you Steve.

"This award tonight would have humbly validated Heath's quiet determination to be truly accepted by you all here, his peers, within an industry he so loved," Kim Ledger said.


“Heath was such a compassionate and genuine soul. He rendered so much excitement and inspiration in our lives. We have been truly overwhelmed with the honor and respect being bestowed upon him with this award. Tonight, we are choosing to celebrate and be happy with what he has achieved, “Sally Bell said.


“Heath, we both knew what you had created in the Joker was extraordinary special and had even talked about being here on this very day. We really wished you were but we proudly accept this award in behalf of your beautiful daughter Matilda, Kate Ledger said.


I knew Heath Ledger would win the Oscar Best Supporting Actor. God didn’t allow anything to interfere with Heath Ledger’s win. Because God knew that he really was meant for it whether he’s still with us here or not. I have high respects for anyone who has gotten nominated at the Oscars. Therefore, I have high respects as well for Heath Ledger’s co-nominees. But they themselves had put their faith in Heath to win the plum award.

I just really wish he was there on stage to accept the award he really worked hard for. I wished I heard him say his acceptance speech and how thrilled he was to be bestowed with this kind of honor. I’m sure he will be in absolute happiness. But even though he was just watching from above, I know and we know his fans and the people who love him that he’s extremely happy with the tribute and reverence by the people and his peers for him. We know you know we love you dearly. You will always be a part of our lives. We will never forget you Heath Ledger.

Remembering Heath Ledger

It’s been a year and people still just can’t accept the fact that he is forever gone. The shock is still there from the first time we heard about the incident. He doesn’t deserve it of course, but I’m sure wherever he is, he is now in a better and happier place. I’m sure he’s smiling at us from above right now. Because people don’t seem to forget who he was and who he is.

Since the release of the Dark Knight in July last year, critics and audiences alike have been giving him accolade from here and there. It would have been a lot better if he was here hearing those accolades himself. If it was actually him who was receiving those awards from respected award giving bodies. It was no doubt one of his best performances ever in his successful career. Just like what the saying goes, “Save the best for last “. It was his last performance and truly one of his best.

At the height of the awards season, here comes the Oscars. He is indeed nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Joker in the Dark Knight. He already won in the Golden Globes and I really pray and hope he will take the Oscars. I don’t think there’s anyone who could match up to his performance among the nominees for the best supporting category. I’m not saying Robert Downey or Phillip Seymour Hoffman didn’t do great but performance wise, it should really be Heath Ledger. I’m not saying they should make him win because he’s gone. They should make him win and he should win because he should really win. So here I am, asking and pleading for God for a wish to come true. Tomorrow, it will be known if my wish and most people’s wish came true.

To Heath, wherever you are the, people who loves you and your fans will miss you forever and remember you always. You are the best and you are the winner with or without a trophy. You will be with us for as long as we live.

February 13, Friday

Proceed or Suspend


It’s raining hard outside now. What if some unearthly creature called “shinigami” or death god came to me one day. And he looks stunningly just like Chiba, Takeshi Kaneshiro’s role in Sweet Rain. (I’d die in his arms, hehe in my wildest dreams) Chiba is a rain man because it rains hard when he’s around. Serious talking here, what if Chiba indeed comes to Manila and I’m his current subject. He will have to decide if I live or die.

A shinigami’s job is to decide whether this certain life of a person is worthy of death. They don’t deal with suicides and illnesses, only those that are foretold. They go to funerals but only those cases of children because children don’t understand many things. They choose either to “suspend “or “proceed”. Suspend means that that person’s life has been chosen to continue for it hasn’t fulfilled its purpose just yet. Proceed means that that life is without a doubt worthy of death for it has fulfilled its purpose already.

Chiba’s first subject is a 27 year old female office worker named Kazue Fujiki. Fujiki thinks that there is nothing good in her life. When she was little, her parents died from a car accident. The couple who took her in died as well from a fire. And her boyfriend died in a car accident too. She herself has been thinking a lot about death and that she wants to perish just like them. Then Chiba came to her life and she seemed to have some hope alive again. But then we know what Chiba’s purpose after all, that is to judge whether she dies or she lives by making contact with her. Fujiki has been receiving these weird calls from a stalker who wants to her voice. Surprisingly, that weird caller is a music producer who is looking for new talents and he happened to like her voice. When Chiba saw this and found out that her voice is special, he decided to suspend and that way she lives. Because a singing career might be the fulfillment of her life’s purpose.

His second subject is a male 40 year old yakuza leader Fujita. Fujita wants to take revenge to Kuriki, another yakuza leader who killed Fujita’s boss some time ago. Chiba came to the picture as an informant who knows the whereabouts of Kuriki. Unknown to him, his most trusted ally Akutsu was sent by Kuriki’s gang to keep an eye on him to kill him at the right time. Fujita was tricked that there is a certain meeting but it turned out to be a plot to corner and kill him finally. Akutsu, who looks at Fujita like an older brother decides to ask Chiba’s help only for them to get caught. Fujita came to save Akutsu but it wasn’t him who died there but Kuriki. But Chiba has decided to proceed for Fujita to die in a car accident.

And his last subject is a 70 year old hairdresser who lives near the sea. Chiba came to get his hair cut but unexpectedly, the old woman knows what he really is. She lost her husband and she abandoned her son for fear that anyone she loves will die. She already has a grandson but she doesn’t want to meet the 7 year old boy. So she asked Chiba’s help to gather some 7 year old boys to get a haircut for free the day after tomorrow. There was this particular boy who wanted to pay. She knew exactly then who among those boys was her grandson. Incidentally, the woman’s son is Akutsu the former yakuza member. That means this woman is Kazue Fujiki. And so Fujiki and Chiba met again. She said she has no regrets and that she can die anytime. And for the very first time, Chiba has seen a real blue sky. He now seemed to understand what Fujiki meant that a life maybe ordinary but important just like the rising of the sun.

Kazue Fujiki has made her purpose. She became a singer and she had a family and a son. She might have abandoned her son but she is already forgiven. She finally meets her grandson and she has find complete peace at last. Akutsu is Fujiki’s son who she abandoned when his father dies when he was little. He became the closest ally to Fujita, a yakuza and came to know how to live again. When Fujita died, he renewed his life carrying on what Fujita has taught him about life and built his own family.

We may never know when our time is, but what’s important is that we make our everyday as worthy as the life that was bestowed on us. Do what we have wanted to do. Be happy and find contentment in life in ways that we feel secured. Forgive and forget. Let go and move on. Move forward and find that star that will shine on us alone. And if we do, we will be that star that will shine for them alone as well. And if we get a “proceed” in that fateful time, we have live with no regrets and will leave with no regrets. Don’t forget to live.

A Stranger Calls


A stranger called me on Tuesday night, January 20. I was then busy doing something when I heard the phone ringing. I knew there’s someone downstairs so I don’t really bother to answer the phone. And it didn’t even come to me that it might be him calling. When I was told that the call was for me, still it didn’t occur to me that it could really be him. I answered the phone and when no one answered, I knew immediately it was him. He was the only person I know who’s like that. But I really thought it was Jacky.

To be honest, I really didn’t feel anything at all. I wasn’t happy nor was I sad or angry. I used to be so excited whenever the phone rings expecting it was him calling. But that call really had a different feel for me. I still talk to him the way I used to. I don’t know if I’m being judgmental and unfair to think that he only called to remind me of my debt. But I always think of him this way.

Then he suddenly blurted that he didn’t know I went home to the province. To top it all, he even said why I didn’t even told him I was going home. Should I? And I doubt it because Joanne told me once that Fabio and he went to her place. Joanne even asked if they’re going to my place which they answered maybe next time. So how could he not know I was there? He just really didn’t pay any attention or they had no plans at all. Well it didn’t really matter to me whether they did come or not. What matters is he’s lying again in my face.

I just gave his sister the payment for the rest of my debt. His sister told me I could have just gone to their place. She even asked me if the reason why I gave the payment to her instead of him was because I don’t want to see her brother. I was really caught off guard by what Ading said because she was damn right.

As days pass, he just might become stranger and stranger to me. I’m not sure if I still can remain friends with someone who only toys with someone else’s feelings. Maybe we’re just supposed to be mere strangers to each other. That way, we’ll be well again.