adayinthelifeofrj.com » Causes

Bloggers Unite: International Women’s Day March 8, 2010

RJ Marmol — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 17:00:59 +0000

Has it really been a year since I last wrote about International Women's Day in 2009? It seems only yesterday.

If I have to,
I can do anything.
I am strong.
I am invincible.
I am woman.

Every year, we go through this process when we pause for a moment and think about how our lives have been touched one way or another by a woman. It may range from a simple, comforting smile to an entire life changed forever by one woman's courage or strength or love.

Photo by *Zara

Everyday, we see them walk among us -- women just being themselves, doing what they do best -- serving and protecting, nurturing and loving, giving and inspiring...

Their selfless acts have become as natural to them as breathing, their show of support as ubiquitous as a tap on one's shoulder just when you need it.

It's an overwhelming experience -- to be loved selflessly and tirelessly by someone so strong yet so fragile, so sweet yet so dangerous, so innocent yet so knowledgeable. So sensitive yet so strong.

It is precisely these very same contradictions that make women so unique. Whether it's a mother's touch, a friend's embrace or a lover's kiss -- a woman's inexplicable capacity to take in so much and give the same without losing anything in the process but instead gaining more and giving more is almost magical if not unbelievable.

The love of a woman is fierce -- like a double-edged sword too dangerous for the faint of heart and too pure for the opportunistic soul.

Oftentimes, a woman's capacity for great love is downplayed as nothing more than a dutiful fulfillment of her mission, as if everything she does must have a reason, otherwise she is but a lost soul, whose existence becomes devoid of meaning and purpose.

In truth, she needs no validation nor recognition. She seeks none of those. For to her, everything she does is a labor of love, born of her immense drive to put the other person's happiness above her own -- always. To her, that is reason enough. That is reason itself.

It's a pity that while we claim that the world has become more tolerant and accepting of women, the exact opposite is true for most of them in many countries.

With the exception of a few Western countries, more and more women in the East suffer in silence in the face of maltreatment and abuse -- most times through no fault of their own.

In stark contrast with men, society finds it hard to separate a woman's achievements and contributions from the personal life she leads. This is probably one of -- if not the biggest discrimination women face. When a male political figure commits blunders and unthinkable sins for example, the world easily downplays, forgives and forgets.

But when a woman of the same stature does the same, she is eternally doomed and haunted by past mistakes -- never to fully recover from her foibles. It is as if she is not at all allowed to be human.

(Case in point: Bill Clinton vs. Sarah Palin; Tiger Woods vs. Northern Ireland's Iris Robinson)

I'd like to think that the world, after years of struggling with feminism has changed. But the glaring truth is that it hasn't changed a bit. It just wants us to believe it has just so we'd stop whining and complaining about it.

***

International Women's Day is also a celebration of women achievements. And for this year, I choose to honor a great woman writer, Lualhati Bautista who embodies the strong and stubborn woman who refuses to sit down and take it. Her strength shines through in her writing and her life and works serve as an inspiration to aspiring women writers. Lualhati Bautista -- all talent, all woman.

Today, as we celebrate the many ways a woman loves and the many wonderful ways we have benefited from such love, let us not forget the many forgotten women all over the world -- unrecognized, abandoned and unloved.

On this day, may God touch them in the night as they fall asleep weeping, may they wake up to a more caring world the next day. May they walk without fear among the crowd. May they speak without reservations of their feelings and fears. May they find comfort in the thought that they are remembered every year.

This is for all the faceless women of the world. One day, all will be rectified. One day, they will get what's due to them. One day soon.

Today is International Women's Day. Remember all the wonderful women in your lives. Let them know they are appreciated. Let them know they are loved.

Suggested Further Reading:

Bloggers Unite: International Women’s Day March 8, 2010 is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

How to Donate to Chile Earthquake victims through text (Globe)

RJ Marmol — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:02:58 +0000

I know we're still hurting about what happened to Haiti and you've probably sent your donation there through the many available options and avenues online or offline.

Photo by ♥ Queen B

Today, if you don't know yet, let me tell you that you can DONATE TO CHILE THROUGH TEXT (for ALL GLOBE subscribers). All donations would go to the RED CROSS which will ensure that your donations would reach their intended recipients.

Just text CHILE to 2899.

Ex. CHILE 300 and send it to 2899

Available donation amounts are 5, 25, 50, 100, 30, 500 and 1000 pesos.

This transaction is free of charge. For prepaid subscribers, this amount will be deducted from your regular load balance and for postpaid subscribers, this will be charged to your account on the appropriate billing cycle.

Chileans are facing one of the toughest tragedies in their history in the aftermath of an 8.8 earthquake and recent aftershocks. Many of the civilians have resorted to looting delis and convenience stores because of the lack of food and other necessities. The situation is so out of control that the government have issued additional police powers to make arrests and restore order.

These are not your usual looters. They are ordinary people pushed to the limit by lack of assistance and possibly, hope. Let us make their lives a little bit bearable by giving what we can.

Remember, every little bit counts.

Please pass this information to as many Globe subscribers you know since not all subscribers have their Globe Advisory alerts enabled. Many may not be aware of this yet. Thank you.

Suggested Further Reading:

How to Donate to Chile Earthquake victims through text (Globe) is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

How the Haiti earthquake shook us up out of complacency

RJ Marmol — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:49:40 +0000

There are things in this life bigger than all of us-- bigger than our daily personal struggles, bigger than our economic woes and even bigger than the upcoming 2010 presidential elections. My friends, it is the universal desire for the well-being and safety of our brothers and sisters around the world. Yes, that much-ridiculed and overly-used, Ms. Universe-like wish of "world peace". Along with that is our ardent prayer that people be safe from harm.

Sometimes, in the rush and chaos of everyday existence and occupations, we forget that whatever differences, goals and priorities we have, there is one thing common to all of us -- a shared appreciation to the one thread woven in all of humankind -- that kind of strength to which any other strength -- be it economic or military pales in comparison -- it is the fortitude of the human heart -- the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

Photo by lille abe

The world, as I write this watch in shock at what now appears to be a patch of hell on earth as Haiti grieves for their dead -- with the death toll feared to go as high as 500,000. Millions of people are needing help, most of the survivors decided to live on the streets for fear of aftershocks. What happened to Haiti last Tuesday, January 12, 2010 must shake us up out of complacency. If it can happen to them, it can happen to us.

There are two (2) things we share with Haiti -- poverty and corruption. These two always go together -- one resulting to the other, in an endless cycle of misery.

Haiti was unprepared for that 7.0 magnitude earthquake that is to come for a whole lot of reasons similar to us -- corruption which resulted to structurally-flawed and unsafe buildings, poor delivery of basic services, poor disaster-preparedness and more.

We, like Haitians, are no strangers to disasters -- political, economic and natural. And given our similarities with their current state, we can only cower in fear and pray earnestly that we do not suffer the same fate as theirs. most specially because compared to Haiti whose last experience with an earthquake was 200 years ago, the Philippines' most devastating earthquake experience is still fresh in our minds some 20 years ago in 1990. We were unprepared then and I sure as hell can bet that two decades after, we remain unprepared.

My heart goes out to the people of Haiti who lost what little they have. To bear witness to such a tragedy, to be able to walk among the dead seem like a curse far worse than subsistence. While it can't be argued that this 7.0 magnitude earthquake is a natural calamity, the number of casualties may have been limited if not totally avoided had there been early warning of an impending disaster which should have facilitated swift and orderly security of the residents. But then, maybe there's no stopping nature. There is a reason for everything.

Whatever it is, only God knows.

If you have money to spare, please donate. No amount is so small to not make a difference, and no amount is too big for our Haitian brothers and sisters.

The easiest way to donate to Haiti online (through credit card) to the American Red Cross is through this Google checkout link on the Youtube video, right side. For the technophobes out there, don't worry, it's safe, tried it myself.

You can also opt to donate through the American Red Cross website or to Doctors Without Borders.

***

On Pat Robertson's Haiti "pact with the devil" blunder

For the record, I would like to express disappointment over what longtime TV evangelist Pat Robertson of the 700 Club said on air claiming that the Haitians made a "pact with the devil" hundreds of years ago, hence the curse and the earthquake. He further claims that Haitians did this to gain their freedom from the French. I think such a statement is not characteristic of an evangelist. This statement spits at the honor of Haitians who hold the distinction as the only country in the Western Hemisphere to undergo a successful slave revolution. If there was such a "pact", who can attest to its authenticity? Who can judge? Such a statement only adds insult to injury. It is clearly judgmental and uncalled for.Suggested Further Reading:

How the Haiti earthquake shook us up out of complacency is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Tulong Balik Eskwela Post-Ondoy/Pepeng

RJ Marmol — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:48:54 +0000

I am a firm believer of the power of education in transforming lives unlike any other service that the government can provide. We need not look elsewhere for answers to eradicate poverty and corruption. Education transforms not only the economy but also the prevailing mindset of a nation -- the answer to the biggest problem in the Philippines.

The survivors of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng need our help. Their children -- vessels of our hope for the future of this country depend on our support. Let us not fail them. Please donate whatever you can. The following texts were taken from a video response I got on my YouTube "Rebuilding After the Storm".

Help our Public Schools recover from Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) and Pepeng (Parma) by donating School supplies or Cash.

Classes resumed already and there are still damaged schools and students with no school supplies to use.

You may donate the following:

For the students:
• Notebooks
• Pens
• Pencils
• Crayons
• School bags
• Pad papers
• Eraser
• Slippers
• Sharpener, 12 inch Ruler
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap

*You may also donate Php 200.00 (around US$ 4.00) for every student you want to adopt.

*A pack will include: for ES 8 notebooks, 2 pens, 2 pencils, 1 box of crayons, 2 pad papers, 1 school bag, eraser, sharpener, Slippers and toiletries. For HS: 12 notebooks, 2 pens, 2 pencils, 2 pad papers, 1 school bag, ruler, toiletries and slippers

You may also donate toys for elem. school students..

For schools:
• Monetary donation

Donations may be dropped off at (or send to):
c/o Knowledge Channel Foundation
5F Benpres building, Exchange Road cor. Meralco Ave. Ortigas Center, Pasig City Philippines 1600

Other Drop off centers for school supplies:
STI-Alabang (across Starmall Alabang)
TUP-Taguig c/o NSTP dept.

Cash donations may also be deposited at any BPI branch
Account details:
Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc.
#0201-0437-27
BPI- Pasig- Ortigas Branch

For inquiries, please call our hotline: (+632) 385-3847 or (+632) 910-3181 to 84 local 104
or email kchvolunteers@Ymail.com or volunteer@knowledgechannel.org

Knowledge Channel Foundation: www.knowledgechannel.org

****YOU CAN ALSO HELP US BY DISSEMINATING THE INFO ON OUR CAMPAIGN! Pls repost/share..Suggested Further Reading:

Tulong Balik Eskwela Post-Ondoy/Pepeng is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Bloggers Unite: Today, October 17 is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

RJ Marmol — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 11:33:43 +0000

Fellow bloggers, unite. Today, October 17 is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This year's theme is: "Working Together Out of Poverty".

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is celebrated every year on October 17 throughout the world. It was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1992, but the first commemoration of the event took place in Paris, France, in 1987 when 100,000 people gathered on the Human Rights and Liberties Plaza at the Trocadéro to honour victims of poverty, hunger, violence and fear.

The figures are staggering. One in five people in the world live on less than a dollar a day. Imagine how skewed and imbalanced the so-called "distribution" of the world's wealth and resources has remained over the years.

In the Philippines, poverty has become so common that sweet welcoming smiles of children who approach you selling their sampaguitas seem to veil tracks of tears etched on their faces. While they utter that most grateful "Salamat po." (Thank you.), they distract themselves from their reality and for a few seconds, look at that lone coin trying to convince themselves that it does exist. Sometimes, they grasp that coin so tight as if their entire lives depended on it -- and painfully, it did. But that momentary distraction from reality, to them, is enough to numb their sore, bare feet tired from walking all day and all night, fending for themselves like workmen, so young and fragile yet hardened to the core by the cruel streets of the city -- they took it upon themselves to do something, anything -- to die trying rather than die waiting. These are kids. These are their challenges -- challenges that should have been and remains to be OURS.

In this country, according to The Second Quarter 2009 Social Weather Survey on self-rated poverty released on August 4 and fielded over June 19-22, 2009 -- 50% (an estimated 9.3 million) families consider themselves as Poor, 27% put themselves on the Borderline, and only 22% consider themselves as Not Poor. In this same survey, 39% of Filipino families (an estimated 7.2 million) consider themselves as Food-Poor, 33% put themselves on the Food-Borderline, and only 28% consider themselves as Not Food-Poor.

In terms of hunger, although the Third Quarter 2009 Social Weather Survey, fielded over September 18-21, 2009, reports that the proportion of families experiencing involuntary hunger at least once in the past three months have been declining to 17.5%, or an estimated 3.2 million families, from 20.3% (estimated 3.7 million families) in the previous quarter, much work remains to be done to sustain this decline. The survey adds that:

Hunger has consistently been in double-digits for over five years, since June 2004. The latest Hunger figure is 5 points above the 11-year average of 12.9%.

The measure of Hunger refers to involuntary suffering because the respondents answer a survey question that specifies hunger due to lack of anything to eat.

*****

What has politics got to do with it?

Incidentally, today is also the day to Stand Up Against Corruption and Poverty. It is undeniable that corruption and poverty are inextricably linked to each other because corruption acts as stumbling block towards the Millennium Development Goals which includes the eradication of poverty in 2010 .

Being neck-deep in foreign debt, borne out of ostentatious spending of previous governments up to the present, somehow, we have come to accept that there is nothing else we can do but live with it.

Attributing the Filipino's resilience to the many years of being poor, compounded by frequent disasters -- the natural and the political. Many Filipinos just keep on adapting, continuing to survive however hard or hopeless.

I guess, not many of them know that their being impoverished is not entirely traceable to fate. I suppose they don't know that by living in utter poverty, their basic human rights are continuously violated, generations before them and generations after them.

While those who have ransacked our coffers and are endlessly thieving on every piece of resource they get their hands on live affluent lives, people die by the hundreds, if not thousands because of despicable and horrible poverty.

*****

This has got to stop.

For so long a time, the poor has been made to believe that it is fate that dictated their plight, that it is our country's being typhoon-stricken or our geography that hampers delivery of basic services. For so very long, many generations before us, we were made to believe that it is our being in debt to the World Bank and other lending institutions that put us here -- this unending cycle of debt-servicing, the government claims, is what eats up most of our national budget. We were made to believe that THERE IS NOTHING THAT WE CAN DO ABOUT POVERTY or that if there were solutions, they were remotely possible to begin with.

I refuse to be brainwashed. I refuse to be swindled. I refuse to just take it as it is.

Yes, we are in debt. Yes, being so close to the equator, being typhoon-stricken, being so far apart from us each other -- 7,107 islands -- all these may be hindrances. But these reasons should not content us. Every problem has a solution -- we just have to find it out, have the conviction and the will to do whatever is necessary to get ourselves out of this rut.

Of course, this is no small task. And this is not a task best left to the government alone. But we can all take small steady steps leading to this goal.

What can you do to help in our struggle for the eradication of poverty? Here are some of the little ways:

1) Pay your taxes correctly and promptly. Do not argue. You are required by law anyway. Where else will the government get funds?

2) Contribute to your local church (monetarily or through your efforts). Most churches have community services like school-feeding or similar activities.

3) Be vigilant. Report and expose corruption and other similar anomalies in the government, report it while it is still brewing, doing so will discourage continuing corrupt practices.

4) Always ask for receipts. If you pay your taxes correctly and promptly, it is imperative that you demand the same from businesses who earn far more than you.

5) Prevent yourself from being part of the statistics. These days, people get bankrupt overnight. Manage your resources wisely, do not overspend. If you have more, then you can share more.

6) If you are a businessman, please consider lowering your profit margins for the benefit of the poor -- most specially if you sell basic commodities.

7) If you have the resources, why not consider putting up small businesses like small sari-sari stores and consider employing one or two people who are family breadwinners.

8) If possible, try to adapt one kid in terms of financing public school education. Education remains as one of the best if not the great equalizer -- a poor man's true salvation. Not only will it give a person the credentials to get a decent job, it will also teach them the value of being goal-oriented. Also, being helped by somebody boosts your morale, your self-worth, realizing that if other people cares about you and believes in you, why then must you lose hope and doubt yourself?

There are so many other ways you can help eradicate poverty. You can even improvise as you go along. (Suggestions are welcome, you can leave them here in the comments section.)

*****

In closing, let me just say:

You don't have to save the entire world. One person. One act. One conviction. One goal. All it takes is ONE. Over time, every little thing we do will add up to something. Eradication of poverty need not sound like "big words" left for the government or the UN to mind. We must learn to take care of each other, one person at a time. And if you can do more than one, imagine how close we can be to this dream.

Imagine a kid coming up to you with a sampaguita, not asking for money but thanking you for finally taking up the challenge that has always been ours to take in the first place.Suggested Further Reading:

Bloggers Unite: Today, October 17 is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change

RJ Marmol — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:00:41 +0000

I am only one blog. I am only one voice. But today, I will pull words out of thin air. I will raise my voice until I am heard. And I will do the best that I can to let the world know that climate change is real.

It's not a hoax. It's not a conspiracy theory. It's not an illusion.

If reality indeed bites, we were mauled to death. If Mother Nature was upset, we've just incurred her wrath. If this was all a conspiracy, we're right in the middle of it. And if this was all an illusion, why can't we snap out of it?

If fear, pain and suffering are intangibles, why can we touch it? Why won't cries for help stop? Why do retrieved bodies keep stacking up? Why won't the smell of death and destruction leave us?

Ondoy's Trail of Fury from Glenn Omanio on Vimeo.

Because for us here in the Philippines, your abstract is our reality. Your apocalypse has arrived sooner. And what you anticipate has just left.

We are victims of man's excesses, of man's greed, of man's pride, of man's carelessness and irresponsibility, of man's procrastinations and misplaced priorities. (We ranked #1 in the 2006 Annual Climate Risk Index in the list of countries most affected by extreme weather events.)

The irreversible is gnawing at us, eating us raw and warm, coming to us in the comfort of our homes, in the simple pleasures of a family meal -- like an angel of death, it came and snatched us of those we love.

Typhoons Ondoy (Ketsana) and Pepeng (Parma) have brought us to our knees and gave the expression "in way over our heads" a whole new meaning. The "Great Flood" of Metro Manila and Souther Luzon compounded by the same tragedy in Pangasinan and most of Northern Luzon was followed by landslides in the land of pine trees and strawberries. What used to look and feel like a glimpse of heaven, sky within reach has now become a muddy hell littered with boulders in disarray. Farther below has emerged a sea of agony. It was our "Katrina" -- but probably far worse.

There is probably no better time for us to come to you -- the rest of the world -- our brothers and sisters. We want you to know this: The world is changing like we never saw it happening. The latest and loftiest of technologies that we have proved no match for nature's wrath.

Tale of Three Disasters in the Philippines, Samoa and Indonesia from Glenn Omanio on Vimeo.

It is time to take stock of what's happening the world over. Let us set aside our differences and work together for the preservation of the human race. To say that it affects each and every one of us is no exaggeration -- no lie -- no hoax -- no conspiracy theory.

As leaders of the world come together in Copenhagen this December for a global response to climate change, let us all pray and urge them to seal the deal and come up with short and long-term solutions to climate change. While the damage has been done, most of it irreparable and irreversible, let it not stop us from exploring ways of mitigating the effects of previous transgressions and urge us once and for all that action must be done. Let the simple acts of everyday be conscious efforts of combating climate change.

In the face of the worst tragedies and the most challenging adversities, the human spirit of survival has always prevailed. Our finest hour is yet to come.

*****

For us in the Philippines, let us make a conscious effort to study climate change and take action. Join Pilipinas Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change. Acquaint yourselves with the many ways you can help.

I am only one blog. I am only one voice. But I know that I do not act alone.

Today, October 15 is Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change. Bloggers all over the world will be talking about the single most imminent threat to our planet and ourselves. Join in the conversation. After all, we're all in this together.

One day. One issue. Thousands of voices.

--------------------

UPDATE: 16OCT2009

Based on the information I got from the Blog Action Day site, there are about 400 blogs in the Philippines who registered for the event. I initially intended to list down all the participating blogs here but they are just too many. :)

I urge you to read all of them in your spare time. These blogs cover a variety of niche topics but they have blogged together as one on this very momentous day as we fight to end of apathy on climate change.Suggested Further Reading:

Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

The Day My Country Stood Still: A Typhoon “Ondoy” Aftermath Video by: Glenn Omanio

RJ Marmol — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:03:49 +0000

Today, I am featuring another heartbreaking video from Glenn Omanio, this time, with a new set of photos and Asin's classic song "Masdan Mo (ang Kapaligiran)" (Look Around You) playing in the background. Definitely a must-see. Also see, the first video here.

This video hits two birds with one stone -- that of disaster-preparedness and environmental responsibility. We've heard about the long and boring discussions about global warming and climate change and yet, no picture or technical explanation can get any clearer than this. This is reality. It is not God's punishment. It is the law of interaction laid out in our face. Every action solicits a reaction. It is a punishment we may have brought upon ourselves.

But all is not lost. We -- the ones who are left, must now do the long and boring process of rebuilding and re-educating ourselves in disaster preparedness and environmental accountability. Had we heeded that call and listened to it then, this may not have happened.

The long and boring is inevitable. We can delay but we will ultimately pay.

******

Find out the many ways you can help typhoon Ondoy victims.

If your in the Philippines, here's a list of verified relief centers / drop off centers for donations.

You can also donate online to Philippine National Red Cross.

The Day My Country Stood Still (Aftermath of Typhoon Ondoy) from Glenn Omanio on Vimeo.

*****

Masdan Mo Ang Kapaligiran (Asin)
Wala ka bang napapansin sa iyong mga kapaligiran?
Kay dumi na ng hangin, pati na ang mga ilog natin.

Refrain 1:

Hindi na masama ang pag-unlad at malayu-layo na rin ang ating narating

Ngunit masdan mo ang tubig sa dagat dati'y kulay asul ngayo'y naging itim

Ang mga duming ating ikinalat sa hangin sa langit huwag na nating paabutin

Upang kung tayo'y pumanaw man, sariwang hangin sa langit natin matitikman

Refrain 2:

Mayron lang akong hinihiling sa aking pagpanaw sana ay tag-ulan

Gitara ko ay aking dadalhin upang sa ulap na lang tayo magkantahan

Ang mga batang ngayon lang isinilang may hangin pa kayang matitikman?

May mga puno pa kaya silang aakyatin may mga ilog pa kayang lalanguyan?

Refrain 3:

Bakit di natin pagisipan ang nangyayari sa ating kapaligiran

Hindi na masama ang pag-unlad kung hindi nakakasira ng kalikasan

Darating ang panahon mga ibong gala ay wala nang madadapuan

Masdan mo ang mga punong dati ay kay tatag ngayo'y namamatay dahil sa 'ting kalokohan

Refrain 4:

Lahat ng bagay na narito sa lupa biyayang galing sa Diyos kahit nong ika'y wala pa Ingatan natin at 'wag nang sirain pa pagkat pag kanyang binawi, tayo'y mawawala na

Repeat refrain 2:Suggested Further Reading:

The Day My Country Stood Still: A Typhoon “Ondoy” Aftermath Video by: Glenn Omanio is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

“Ondoy’s Trail of Fury”: A Heartwrenching Video

RJ Marmol — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 01:49:37 +0000

I'm posting this heartwrenching video on "Ondoy's Trail of Fury" shared through Facebook by Ding Gagelonia and originally uploaded on Vimeo and YouTube by Glen Omanio. I suppose he also owns the rights to this video and he was kind enough to express on his Facebook link that it's okay to share and spread it as means of informing everyone and gathering support and donations for our kababayans devastated by Typhoon "Ondoy" (international code name "Ketsana").

The video is so good because it captures in snapshots and music the tragedy that befell us while at the same time urging us to move into action, to do something and to trust that help is at hand because although we may be ill-equipped, short of supplies and other resources, we rest in the comfort that we have each other. You and me.

This video deserves a wider audience outside of Facebook.

I hope it reaches the far corners of the world wide web and touches the hearts of those who can help either in rescue/retrieval operations, delivery of supplies, lending of equipment and tools, gathering, donation of, repacking and distribution of relief goods to isolated areas and evacuation centers. Don't ever think that there isn't much you can do. We need each other's help here. Every little bit counts. As of last report, relief centers are running out of goods. Our brothers and sisters need us.

To share and/or embed the video on your own blogs and social networks, please click on either or both Vimeo and YouTube link above.

On Sept. 26, the Philippine capital Manila and its neighboring provinces suffered one of nature's worst beating. Typhoon Ondoy, international code name Ketsana, poured more than a month's worth of rain in six hours, submerging most parts of... the bustling metropolis, drowning at least a hundred people as of press time. My prayers to the victims, and may we emerge victorious and live by the lessons of this tragedy. Donate now via PayPal at is.gd/3IOAT through consumer group TXTPower, txtpower.org. All proceeds go to the Philippine National Red Cross. (Photos by Reuters. Music by Ennio Morricone, "Love Theme" from "Cinema Paradiso").

Wherever you are in the world, you can help by donating online:

Donate now via PayPal at is.gd/3IOAT

Click here to find out the many ways you can help.
Here's a list of verified relief centers where you can drop your donations.
Google has a dedicated landing page for everything you need to know about Typhoon "Ondoy" -- situationers, traffic/road reports, SOS calls for rescue or assistance, locating/finding missing persons, news updates and more.
If you know of anyone who needs help/rescuing, click here (fill out form, please be as specific as you can) and our heroic IT/Google maps proficient kababayans will update the map for you. It will be of great help to rescuers in identifying which specific areas to go to.

Ondoy's Trail of Fury from Glenn Omanio on Vimeo.Suggested Further Reading:

“Ondoy’s Trail of Fury”: A Heartwrenching Video is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

(Continuously UPDATED 09/29/09) List of Verified Relief / Drop off Centers for Donations (for Typhoon Ondoy Victims)

RJ Marmol — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:28:34 +0000

UPDATE as of 9/29/09: Here is the additional list of relief centers, ways to donate online, calls for specific goods/items, calls for volunteers and fund-raising drives being organized. These are information aggregated mainly from Twitter and Facebook. Since there are countless information being exchanged at these social networks it's hard to track whether this information is reaching the proper channels/targeted people or if it's simply floating around being shared and retweeted. I am deluged with data so I figured I would have to consolidate and compile it to make sense and structure out of it.

I am continuously updating this post (hopefully for the entire day) so please hit on refresh every once in a while to update the list. I try my best to verify every link, but as for the phone numbers, please do the verification on your end. I am also sending this to the Google spreadsheet directory for documentation and reference. If you find errors, please call my attention through my Twitter or Facebook. Thank you.

RELEVANT NEWS/UPDATES:

NDCC list of impassable roads as of Sept 29, 2009

FREE SERVICES OFFERED TO VICTIMS:

HONDA & NISSAN OFFERS FREE TOWING! 09228504452 -09224452242 -09228997959
Calamity loans available for those affected by Ondoy. Hotlines SSS 9206446 GSIS 4793645 PAG-IBIG 724 4244

REQUESTS/HELP NEEDED:

Cainta, Tanay appeal for more relief aid
Carlos Celdran calling out for volunteer cooks to man soup kitchen in San Mateo later this afternoon. Text 0917 8861080.
ADMU needs food.
LSGH needs cars to transport goods.
Xavier needs donations.
Red Cross Shaw & MegaTent need volunteers
Call for donations to San Mateo Rizal Municipal Hall; look for Romina Alfonso. They need medicines, water, rice, sardines, noodles.
Red Cross needs volunteer divers who are experienced in rescue, search and recovery. Please call Gio Bacareza 09175777602
Surfers w/ or w/o boards who want to help in the rescue operations,contact 09178441981/09278947232. This is in coordination w/ AlohaBoardSports.

SOS Rescue ASAP:

Residents of FELIX, CAINTA still have not been rescued. Still flooded and no help for 72 hours.

FUNDRAISERS BEING ORGANIZED NATIONWIDE:

Fundraiser at Escoto Store fronting Belyca Badminton Store, Brgy 2, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon Sep 30 3-10pm

RELIEF OPERATIONS / DROP OFF POINTS FOR DONATIONS:

***LOCAL***

SLU (Saint Louis University) Baguio (in cash or in kind) -- priority relief items: clothes, clean water , food, kitchenware, medicines, hygience kits, towels
Ateneo de Naga University "Agap Luzon" now accepting donations led by the Center for Community Dev't.
Victory Sta. Rosa is also accepting donations. Please coordinate with
Mr. Gene Battung at 09228424403.
Tulong Tomasino: Donation Drive for ONDOY Victims
CCF St. Francis Square is open to all volunteers who would like to help from
September 28 –October 04, 2009 (Monday to Sunday) at Room 402 from 9AM to 5PM
Tropang Villar -- If you want to join our effort in helping Ondoy victims, welcome aboard! Call 0917-8122802 or 0917-4226800. We are also accepting relief goods at all entrances of Star Mall on Edsa corner Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City.
St. Scholastica's College-Manila is accepting donations today.
Parish Center Lily St. Tahanan Village -- still accepting donations tomorrow 9am-12nn
Akbayan Party List relief operations (donations and volunteers) pls call or txt: 925-58-43/ 09175381816 (Bayantel lines down so use these numbers). Akbayan office #36 b Madasalin St., Sikatuna Village, Quezon City

RED CROSS -- For those who are donating goods for the families by Typhoon Ondoy, you can send your donations from September 29 to October 2 to the BLUELEAF EVENTS PAVILLION, 100 Park Avenue, McKinley Hill Village, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, directions are as follows:From McKinley Road, enter Fort Bonifacio and go straight, then turn right on 5th Avenue, going towards Essensa. Go past Essensa and the American Battle Monument. Turn left on upper McKinley Road.Turn right on Park Avenue and then the BLUELEAF EVENTS PAVILLION will be on your right.

***ESTABLISHMENTS***

LBC is now accepting donations nationwide for the victims of typhoon "Ondoy"
SM Malls are also accepting donations.
Star Mall (at any entrance) -- Tulong Villar is accepting donations and supplies

***INTERNATIONAL***

Typhoon Relief "Balikbayan Box Drive" Whittier Law School in Orange County CA

World Food Programme -- Help the Philippines weather the storm - just $18 helps a family with essential food. Donate online.
Habitat for Humanity will be constructing pre-fab toilets & transitional shelter for Ondoy victims. Donate online.
Australia: Pinoy-Aussies, LISTEN tomorrow &Thursday @ 97.7 FM SBS Radio-Filipino Program, CALL & DONATE! SBS Radiothon for Ondoy Victims.

UPDATE ON VARIOUS WAYS/MEANS FOR ONLINE DONATIONS:

Philippine National Red Cross Online Donations: You can now select Typhoon Ondoy from the drop down menu when donating online.
Some people got emails from Xoom.com which says, "Send a Fee-Free Money Transfer to Help the Typhoon Ondoy Relief Efforts", if you got that, ask friends to check their emails, they may want to use that in sending donations.

******

UPDATE as of 9/28/09: According to MLQ3, relief centers are running out of goods. Please help.

Relief centers for Typhoon "Indoy" victims running out of goods

I'm posting this email from Fight Poverty and Corruption for a Better Philippines by 2028, a Facebook group I am a member of. Facebook friends used to ask back then, what's the relevance of joining groups on Facebook when you don't really get to do anything but sign-in for a cause and then that's it. Well, here's the answer. This is where that group is put to use. So let's pull all our resources together. There is no better time than this.

I find this information highly important and it is urgent that it reaches as many online eyes as possible, hence the decision to repost. I'm quite sure you've seen this in the dailies or somewhere else online, but I'd like to boost keyword prominence and easy searching for this information hopefully upped by this blog's page rank.

The information contained herein do not belong to me, I did not compile this. Please give credit where it is due (check names at the end of the post). I hope this information gets pushed at Google and other search engines.

Again, below is a list of verified relief centers / drop off centers for donations for Typhoon Ondoy victims, our kababayans who need all the help we can give.

Alternatively, you can also refer to this online spreadsheet of relief/drop off/volunteer centers, edited real-time by concerned citizens. Check for drop off centers near your area.

*******

09/27/2009 | 09:09 PM

This is the list of verified relief centers where people can drop off their donations for the victims of "Ondoy:"

QUEZON CITY

UP College of Arts and Letters

Go to: College of Arts and Letters (CAL)
University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City

Hotline: 09296454102 (Prof. Roselle Pineda)

Look for: Guard on Duty (in UP CAL)

Operations: 24 hours until Wednesday tentatively

You can:

# Donate medicines, clothes, blankets, food to be distributed by Citizens’ Disaster Response Center.

Erica Paredes

Go to: Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
(Call or text contact number for complete address) Contact #: 09174741930

Look for: Erica Paredes

Operations: Throughout the week tentatively, from 10 am to 6 pm

You can:

# Donate ready-to-eat foods like hard-boiled egg, bread, packed juice, sandwich filling

# Volunteer to prepare sandwiches and distribute goods

NoyMar Relief Operations – QC

Go to: Balay Expo Center, Farmers Market, Cubao or in White Space, Pasong Tamo Ext., Near BMW, Makati

Look for: Clare Amador or Jana Vicente

Hotlines: 09285205508, 09285205499, 0908-6579998, 0939-3633436, 9137122

Operations: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the week until further notice.

Website: www.marroxas.com

You can:

# Donate drinking water, old medicines, clothing, blankets, canned goods, noodles

# Volunteer to man stations and repack food.

Miriam Quiambao and World Vision Development Foundation

Go to: One Orchard Road Building in Eastwood or at the World Vision office at 389 Quezon Avenue, corner West 6th St., Quezon City

Hotline: 0917-8623209

Look for: The guard in the lobby (on One Orchard Road)

Website: http://www.twitter.com/miriamq, www.worldvision.org.ph

Operations: Until Sept. 28, 2009 (Monday), 24-hour operation

You can:

# Donate goods like clothes, blankets, canned goods, crackers, mattress, hygiene kits, noodles, bottled water, oatmeal, instant coffee, sugar (for relief pack to be distributed by World Vision)

# Volunteer to help repack relief goods for World Vision starting today at 7pm

# Deposit cash donations to World Vision Development Foundation, BPI savings account number 4251002415 and BDO savings account number 270043411

Philippine Army

Go to: Philippine Army Gym inside Fort Bonifacio, Makati or General Head Quarter’s Gym in Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, EDSA, Quezon City

Hotline: 892-3417 (direct line), 845-9555 (trunkline) local. 6464 and 6466

Look for: Any personnel on duty

Operations: Ongoing everyday for 24 hours until further notice

You can:

# Donate relief goods (no cash)

# Call hotline for rescue, evacuation or relief assistance.

# Call to report missing persons

Papemelroti Gifts and Decorative Accessories

Go to: 91 Roces Ave., Corner Scout Tobias, Quezon City or mall branches in Ali Mall Cubao, SM City North EDSA, SM Fairview, SM Megamall, Glorietta 3 in Makati, SM Centerpoint, SM Southmall

Hotline: refer to website for individual branch numbers

Website: www.papemelroti.com

Operations: Mall hours (10am-9pm), ongoing everyday until further notice

You can:

# Donate goods like canned goods, clothings, blanket, cooking utensils and other relief goods EXCEPT cash.

Ateneo de Manila University Disaster Response Group

Go to: Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights , Quezon City, Manuel V. Pangilinan Building Center for Student Leadership Lobby, University Dorm Cervini Hall

Hotlines: 09089977166, 09178952792, 4266001 local 5050

Look for: Gio Tiongson, President, Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral

Website: www.ateneosanggu.com

Operations: 24-hour operations for the entire week

You can:

# Donate goods like bottled water, sardines, canned goods, candles, cup noodles.

# Volunteer to help repack relief goods, administer basic first aid.

# Report missing persons.

# Seek evacuation/temporary shelter at University Dorm Cervini Hall.

Citizens Disaster Response Center (CDRC)

Go To: 72-A Times St., West Triangle Homes, Quezon City.

Hotlines: 9299820, 9299822

Operations: 8 a.m. onwards.

You can:

# Donate money, old clothes, blanket, bigas, munggo.

# Volunteer to help distribute goods.

Radio Veritas

Go To: Veritas Tower , West Ave. corner EDSA

Look For: Karla Turingan

Hotlines: 9257931 to 39, 0918VERITAS

Operations: 24-hours, tentatively until Tuesday.

You can:

# Donate old clothes, food, assorted goods, bottled water, cash.

Our Lady of Pentecost Parish

Go to: 12 F. dela Rosa cor. C. Salvador Streets, Loyola Heights , Quezon City

Hotlines: 632 4342397, 63 2 9290665

Operations: 7 a.m. till 10 p.m. Sunday, until further notice.

You Can:

# Donate packed meals, bottled water.

MAKATI/TAGUIG/MUNTINLUPA

Victory Fellowship – Fort Bonifacio

Go to: Victory Fellowship, Every Nation Building , across Market-Market, Fort Bonifacio

Look for: Pastor Bernard Marquez

Hotlines: 813-FORT, 8171212

Operations: Tentatively until 5pm, may may extend hours. Entire week until Friday.

Website: www.twitter.com/VictoryFort

You can:

# Donate canned goods, milk, bottled water, clothes, cash.

# Volunteer to help pack relief goods

Sacred Heart of Jesus Chaplaincy

Go to: Hillsborough Village, Cupang, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila

Hotline: 8428148, 8079847

Look for: Genelyn Sembrano, Meanne Cuneta

Website: www.sacredheartofjesus-alabang.org

Operations: Tuesday-Sunday (Sept. 29-Oct 4). 8 am to 12 noon, 2 to 6 pm

You can:

# Donate water, blankets, shoes, clothes and other goods

# Donate in cash

PASIG CITY

LUZON RELIEF: Volunteer / Donate / Pray

Go to: Renaissance Fitness Center, 2nd Floor, Bramante Building, Renaissance Towers, Ortigas, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City

Hotline: 0929-8713488

Look for: Warren Habaluyas, co-founder

E-mail: luzonrelief@gmail.com

Operations: Monday to Saturday (Sept. 28-Oct. 3), 9am-7pm

You can:

# Donate non-perishable food items, beddings, pillows, blankets, clothes

# You can donate cash but it is not encouraged

- Compiled by Annalyn Ardoña and Patricia Faustino, GMA NEWS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

---
Dennis de Guzman
Cause Admin

*******Suggested Further Reading:

(Continuously UPDATED 09/29/09) List of Verified Relief / Drop off Centers for Donations (for Typhoon Ondoy Victims) is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Typhoon Ondoy Helplines: Who You Gonna Call?

RJ Marmol — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:07:42 +0000

NOTE: This post will undergo continuous editing immediately after posting as new and additional information becomes available.

Rescue operations for victims of Typhoon "Ondoy" ; People tired of waiting for rescue decide to brave neck-deep flood waters. ; Kids and elderly, helpless in disaster.; Celebrities like Cristine Reyes not spared (sits on the roof of her house waiting for rescue). ; Twitter trends deluged with "NDCC", "Ondoy", "Dick Gordon" and "LRT" topics as Filipinos everywhere tweet frantically.; Facebook becomes more than a social network site for sharing personal photos and becomes an efficient way to exchange critical relief operations information replacing clogged phone networks.

Friends from cyberspace were able to compile and consolidate helpline numbers aggregated from Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr. Others were able to write a blog about it so instead of putting everything here, I will just send you to their blogs. Please refer to list of helpful blogs below:

Important/Emergency Numbers:

NDCC (National Disaster Coordinating Council)

911 1873 / 912 5668 / 911 1406 / 912 2665

For SOS (calls for rescue):

EMAIL all messages relating to relief, rescue efforts to: ndcchelpdesk[at]gmail[dot]com

Ways To Help Typhoon Ondoy/Ketsana Victims: Online and Offline

How You Can Help -- MLQ3's post on how to help, who to coordinate with, where to drop your donations, plus bonus compilation of photos shared by everybody online.

List of Verified Relief Centers / Drop Off Centers for Donations -- a compilation of verified relief centers. Wherever you are in the country, Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao, you can help. But if you are within Luzon and near these areas, so much better, maybe you can actually go there and help in the packing of goods or help out any way you can.

OndoyManila - Typhoon Ondoy/Ketsana Mapping Team is a group of volunteers from around the globe, spearheaded by Serge Gregorio, currently disseminating important and urgent information to help the victims of Typhoon Ondoy/Ketsana with the use of Google Maps, in real-time.

Rescue InfoHub Central - An online spreadsheet which is citizen-edited, real-time, which houses information on where to donate, missing/found persons, SOS: calls for rescue and emergency numbers.

NDCC HOTLINES FOR MISSING PERSON:

(Please report missing persons specific to the area).

Marikina: coordinate with Mon Santiago at 0920-9389914

Quezon City: coordinate with Teresa Amarillo at 0921-6555262

Pasig City: send text to 0918-9356318

Cainta: 0917-5606241.

Ondoy Google Maps Situationer - another citizen-powered/edited online map, group posting updates on the situation caused by Typhoon Ondoy in Metro Manila, Philippines based on what they gather from various sources, such as radio, tv, internet, etc.

Red Cross Donations via SMS - Texters all over the Philippines can donate via their mobile phone. We are the world's texting capital. Let your texts save our fellowmen affected by typhoon Ondoy...

How To Donate To Red Cross (Ondoy Victims) through SMS/Text:

1. Just text REDAMOUNT

2. Send to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart).

For Globe, you can donate in these amounts P5, P25, P50, P100, P300.

Red Cross Donations via Credit Card (Online) , bank transfers, check and other means.

International Donations coursed through TXTPOWER using PayPal

Looking for photos related to Ondoy/Ketsana?

Ondoy on Tumblr (warning: explicit texts, please be advised)

Suggested Further Reading:

Typhoon Ondoy Helplines: Who You Gonna Call? is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Pilipino Ako: Malaya. (A 111th Philippine Independence Day Post)

RJ Marmol — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:15:05 +0000

Photo by enggul** My apologies to my foreign friends/readers: I had to write this entire post in Filipino in honor of our 111th Independence Day. Please use Google Translate widget at the rightmost side if you need a rough translation. Thank you. **

Ngayong ika-111 taon ng kalayaan ng mahal kong Pilipinas na kumupkop sa aking mga ninuno at kukupkop sa susunod pang salinlahi, ipinahahayag ko at pinagtitibay ang mga biyayang angkin ng aking kalayaan:

Ako'y malaya, (I'm free)
Sa anumang uri ng pang-aalipin -- ng dayuhan man o kapwa Pilipino (free from slavery)
Sa pang-aabuso ng makasarili at mapag-imbot na tao (free from abuse)
Sa anumang uri ng pananakit -- pisikal, mental, emosyonal o pulitikal
Sa pang-gigipit ng taong nasa kapangyarihan (free from threats of power)
Sa pananakot ng kapitalistang mapagsamantala (free from economic threats)
Sa pagpili ng nais kong relihiyon o paniniwala (freedom of choice)
Sa pagboto ng ninais kong lider (right and freedom to vote)
Sa panloloko ng mapanlinlang na mga pulitiko (freedom from political "swindlers")
Sa kagutuman, sa kahirapan, sa krimen. (free from hunger, poverty and crime)

Malaya akong ipahayag ang aking saloobin sa anumang paraang hindi nakasasaklaw sa kalayaan ng iba (freedom of speech). Malaya akong alamin ang nangyayari sa loob ng gobyerno,
Na alamin kung paano ginagasta ang buwis na kinokolekta
Malaya akong magtanong, magsaliksik, makialam (public disclosure)
Malaya akong mamuhay ng ligtas at walang pangamba na malingat lang ako, ang karapatan ko'y ninakaw na.

Kalakip ng pahayag na ito ay ang aking pagtalima at pagtugon sa kaakibat na responsibilad ng aking tinatamasang kalayaan. Dahil dito, sisikapin ko:

Na sa anumang pagkakataon na manganib ang aking kalayaan, ito'y aking ipaglalaban ng kahuli-hulihan kong lakas.
Na sa pagtamasa ng aking kalayaan, hindi ko kailanman sadyang tatapakan ang kalayaan ng iba.
Na hindi ako magbubulag-bulagan o magbibinghi-bingihan sa harapang pagtapak ng ibang tao sa karapatan ng iba.
Na susuportahan ko ng buong pagmamahal at pagmamalaki ang anumang proyektong nagtataguyod ng kalayaan.
Na ipapamana ko sa aking anak ang pagmamahal sa bayan, sa bandila, sa Saligang Batas at sa kapwa Pilipino.

Pero ang tanong, ramdam mo ba ang kalayaang sinasabi ko? 'Wag na tayong magbolahan. Alam natin pareho na hindi naman talaga
tayo ganap na malaya. Marami sa nabanggit, mistulang pangarap na lang yata. Marami pa ring pagtatangkang pang-aagaw na nagaganap sa kasalukuyan. Hindi ko na kailangang isa-isahin.

Nakalulungkot isipin na hanggang ngayon, pilit pa rin tayong sinasakop. Pilit pa ring inaagaw ang kalayaang tangan natin.
At ang masakit pa nito, iba na ang istilo ng pananakop ngayon. Iba na rin ang anyo ng mga mananakop, hindi na galing sa ibayong-dagat. Andito na mismo nanggagaling sa sarili nating bakuran -- sarili nating lahi -- sariling dugo. Marami sa kanila, iba na ang gamit na sandata -- nakahahalinang pangako, personalidad o presensya. Napakadaling matangay.

Kaya marapat lamang na paigtingin natin ang pagbabantay ng ating kalayaan. 'Wag malilingat. 'Wag kukurap. Maging mapagmatyag.

Kalayaan, hindi na ko papayag na mawala kang muli. Hindi na ko papayag na muling mabawi. At hinding-hindi ako papayag na muling dungisan ang kalayaang pinuhunanan ng sariling dugo ng mga bayaning Pilipino. Taglay ko ang dugo nila. Ang pagyurak sa kalayaang ipinaglaban nila noon ay pagyurak sa parehong kalayaang tinatamasa ko ngayon.

Pilipino ka rin di ba? 'Wag ka ring papayag!

Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo
(Words by Jim Paredes/APO Hiking Society; Sung by: Various Artists)
written for EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986, known as "the revolution that surprised the world")

If the embedded music doesn't play, click here to listen (opens a new window)

'Di na 'ko papayag mawala kang muli.
'Di na 'ko papayag na muling mabawi,
Ating kalayaan kay tagal nating mithi.
'Di na papayagang mabawi muli.

Magkakapit-bisig libo-libong tao.
Kay sarap palang maging Pilipino.
Sama-sama iisa ang adhikain.
Kailan man 'di na paaalipin.

Ref:
Handog ng Pilipino sa mundo,
Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat.

Masdan ang nagaganap sa aming bayan.
Magkasama na'ng mahirap at mayaman.
Kapit-bisig madre, pari, at sundalo.
Naging langit itong bahagi ng mundo.

Huwag muling payagang umiral ang dilim.
Tinig ng bawat tao'y bigyan ng pansin.
Magkakapatid lahat sa Panginoon.
Ito'y lagi nating tatandaan.
(repeat refrain two times)

Coda:
Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan.
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat!

------------------------------------------------------------Suggested Further Reading:

Pilipino Ako: Malaya. (A 111th Philippine Independence Day Post) is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Eight Years Strong: If She’s Here, Who’s Running Hell?

RJ Marmol — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 01:54:04 +0000

I’m pretty sure you’ve heard the numbing, heart-sinking news by now. And I hope mainstream media finally caught up after last night’s unnerving development on House Resolution (HR) 1109, otherwise known as the choo choo train to #conass. Apparently, that term no longer applies because as of last night, the train mutated to a speeding bullet train — proof of how much destruction can happen overnight when we lose vigilance for a moment and choose to be indifferent. Well, what do you know..the revered house can fast-track a bill after all, if they so wanted. While others sleep soundly, those sneaky bastards who sold their soul for a few silver coins are now selling the entire country to the highest bidder (money, position, and everything else). You wake up one morning and boom! You’ve been sold! The height of treachery!

This resolution filed last November 2008 by Congressman Luis Villafuerte of Camarines Sure, who happens to be a kababayan (both of my parents hail from Camarines Sur, Bicol) which was not intended for any other purpose but to ask the Supreme Court on voting procedures by the Senate and the House (how to vote — separately or collectively?) is now being fashioned in a way that may serve the purpose of a select few and not the benefit of the whole Filipino nation. As of this time, he has declared withdrawal of support to the resolution he himself authored and consequently withdrew from the party as well so he’s now independent, so to speak. Are we seeing moro-moro style tactics here?

I have heard of countless reassurances from the President’s men that this ChaCha is not to be feared or despised on account of a possible power perpetuation of GMA. Rep. Villafuerte himself assures this, adding that a resolution/pledge/covenant has been explicitly stated on the bill that they will not tinker with presidential term extension or anything similar to that.

But I refuse to be led astray. Is everything happening according to plan? Are we being played here? I don’t know about you, but I think something’s amiss. They used to employ cloak and dagger attack back in the days, that I’m aware of. But now, it’s totally different. Everything happens “in-your-face” like an attack “in broad daylight” now that if you still feel nothing, I’d say you have a malignant case of denial. Better get yourself checked.

Is your Congressman/woman part of this wholesale pambabastos of the Filipino people’s sentiment over HR 1109 at Bastusang Pambansa?

Check the list below and check it twice, find out who’s naughty and who’s nice. If your representative is up for re-election, I suggest you think it over -- a million times if possible, before voting for him/her.

See if your district representative has shamelessly sold you out!

*Note: Let it be known that I’m proud and happy of our good Congressman Justin “Timmy” Chipeco of the 2nd District of Laguna for NOT SUPPORTING HR 1109. Hats off to you, sir!

LIST OF SHAMELESS SUPPORTERS OF HR 1109:

NAME, DISTRICT/ AREA

ABANTE, BIENVENIDO M. “BENNY” 6TH District Pandacan

ABLAN, ROQUE R. JR Ilocos Norte, 1st District

AGBAYANI, VICTOR AGUEDO E. Pangasinan, 2nd District

AGYAO, MANUEL, S Kalinga Province

ALBANO (III), RODOLFO T. Isabela, 1st District

ALFELOR, FELIX R. JR. 4th District, Camarines Sur

ALMARIO, THELMA Z. Davao Oriental, 2nd District

ALVAREZ, ANTONIO C. Palawan 1st District

ALVAREZ, GENARO RAFAEL M. JR. Negros Occidental, 6th District

AMANTE, EDELMIRO A. Agusan Del Norte, 2nd District

AMATONG, ROMMEL C. Compostela Valley, 2nd District

ANGPING, MARIA ZENAIDA B. Manila, 3rd District

ANTONINO, RODOLFO W. Nueva Ecija, 4th District

APOSTOL, TRINIDAD G. Leyte, 2nd District

AQUINO, JOSE S. (II) 1st District Agusan del Norte

ARAGO, MARIA EVITA R. 3rd district, Laguna

ARBISON, A MUNIR M. Sulu 2nd District

ARENAS, MA. RACHEL J. Pangasinan, 3rd District

ARROYO, DIOSDADO M. Camarines Sur, 1st District

ARROYO, IGNACIO T. 5th district Negros Occidental

ARROYO, JUAN MIGUEL M. 2nd District of Pampanga

BAGATSING, AMADO S. Manila 5th district

BALINDONG, PANGALIAN M. Lanao del Sur, 2nd District

BARZAGA, ELPIDIO F. JR. Cavite, 2nd District

BAUTISTA, FRANKLIN P. Davao Del Sur, 2nd District

BELMONTE, VICENTE F. JR. Lanao del Norte, 1st District

BICHARA, AL FRANCIS C. Albay, 2nd District

BIRON, FERJENEL G. Iloilo, 4th District

BONDOC, ANNA YORK P. Pampanga 4th District

BONOAN-DAVID, MA. THERESA B. Manila, 4th District

BRAVO, NARCISO R. JR. Masbate, 1st District

BRIONES, NICANOR M. AGAP Party list

BUHAIN, EILEEN ERMITA Batangas, 1st District

BULUT, ELIAS C. JR. Apayao Lone District

CAGAS (IV), MARC DOUGLAS C. Davao Del Sur, 1st District

CAJAYON, MARY MITZI L. Caloocan, 2nd District

CAJES, ROBERTO C. Bohol, 2nd District

CARI, CARMEN L. Leyte, 5th District

CASTRO, FREDENIL H. Capiz, 2nd District

CELESTE, ARTHUR F. Pangasinan, 1st District

CERILLES, ANTONIO H. Zamboanga Del Sur, 2nd District

CHATTO, EDGARDO M. Bohol, 1st District

CHONG, GLENN A. Biliran, Lone District

CHUNG-LAO, SOLOMON R. Ifugai, Lone District

CLARETE, MARINA C. Misamis Occidental, 1st District

CODILLA, EUFROCINO M. SR. Leyte, 4th District

COJUANCO, MARK O. Pangasinan, 5th District

COQUILA, TEODULO M. Eastern Samar, Lone District

CRISOLOGO, VINCENT P. Quezon City, 1st District

CUA, JUNIE E. Quirino, Lone District

CUENCO, ANTONIO V. Cebu City, 2nd District

DANGWA, SAMUEL M. Benguet, Lone District

DATUMANONG, SIMEON A. Maguindanao, Lone District

Dayanghirang, Nelson L. Davao Oriental, 1st District

DAZA, NANETTE C. Quezon City, 4th District

DAZA, PAUL R. Northern Samar, 1st District

DE GUZMAN, DEL R. Marikina City, 2nd District

DEFENSOR, ARTHUR D. SR. Iloilo, 3rd District

DEFENSOR, MATIAS V. JR. Quezon City, 3rd District

DEL MAR, RAUL V. Cebu City, 1st District

DIASNES, CARLO OLIVER D. (MD) Batanes, Lone District

DIMAPORO, ABDULLAH D. Lanao Del Norte, 2nd District

DOMOGAN, MAURICIO G. Baguio, Lone District

DUAVIT, MICHAEL JOHN R. Rizal, 1st District

DUENAS, HENRY M. JR. Taguig, 2nd District (2nd Councilor District)

DUMARPA, FAYSAH MRP. Lanao del Sur, 1st District

DUMPIT, THOMAS L. JR. La Union, 2nd District

DURANO (IV), RAMON H. 5th District, Cebu

ECLEO, GLENDA B. Dinagat Islands, Lone District

EMANO, YEVGENY VICENTE B. Misamis Oriental, 2nd District

ENVERGA, WILFRIDO MARK M. Quezon, 1st District

ESTRELLA, CONRADO M. (III) Pangasinan, 6th District

ESTRELLA, ROBERT RAYMUND M. ABONO Party List

FERRER, JEFFREY P. Negros Occidental, 4th District

GARAY, FLORENCIO C. Surigao Del Sur, 2nd District

GARCIA, ALBERT S. Bataan, 2nd District

GARCIA, PABLO JOHN F. Cebu, 3rd District

GARCIA, PABLO P. Cebu, 2nd District

GARCIA, VINCENT J. Davao City, 2nd District

GARIN, JANETTE L. Iloilo, 1st District

GATCHALIAN, REXLON T. Valenzuela City, 1st District

GATLABAYAN, ANGELITO C. Antipolo City, 2nd District

GO, ARNULFO F. Sultan Kudarat, 2nd District

GONZALES, AURELIO D. JR. Pampanga 3rd District

GONZALES, RAUL T. JR. Ilo ilo City

GULLAS, EDUARDO R. Cebu, 1st District

GUNIGUNDO, MAGTANGGOL T. Valenzuela City 2nd District

HOFER, DULCE ANN K. Zamboanga Sibugay, 2nd District

JAAFAR, NUR G. Tawi-Tawi, Lone District

JALA, ADAM RELSON L. Bohol, 3rd District

JALOSJOS, CESAR G. Zamboanga del Norte, 3rd District

JALOSJOS-CARREON, CECILIA G. Zamboanga del Norte, 1st District

JIKIRI, YUSOP H. Sulu, 1st District

KHO, ANTONIO T. Masbate, 2nd District

LABADLABAD, ROSENDO S. Zamboanga del Norte, 2nd District

LACSON, JOSE CARLOS V. Negros Occidental, 3rd District

LAGDAMEO, ANTONIO F. JR. Davao del Norte, 2nd District

LAPUS, JECI A. Tarlac, 3rd District

LAZATIN, CARMELO F. Pampanga, 1st District

LIM, RENO G. Albay, 3rd District

LOPEZ, JAIME C. Manila, 2nd District

MADRONA, ELEANORA JESUS F. Romblon, Lone District

MAGSAYSAY, MARIA MILAGROS H. Zambales, 1st District

MALAPITAN, OSCAR G. Caloocan, 1st District

MAMBA, MANUEL N. Cagayan, 3rd District

MANGUDADATU, DATU PAKUNG S. Sultan Kudarat,

MARANON, ALFREDO D. III Negros Occidental, 2nd District

MATUGAS, FRANCISCO T. Surigao del Norte, 1st District

MENDOZA, MARK LEANDRO L. Batangas, 4th District

MERCADO, ROGER G. Southern Leyte, Lone District

MIRAFLORES, FLORENCIO T. Aklan, Lone District

NAVA, JOAQUIN CARLOS RAHMAN A. (MD) Guimaras, Lone District

NICOLAS, REYLINA G. Bulacan, 4th District

NOGRALES, PROSPERO C. Davao City, 1st District

OLAñO, ARREL R. Davao Del Norte, 1st District

ONG, EMIL L. Northern Samar, 2nd District

ORTEGA, VICTOR FRANCISCO C. La Union, 1st District

PABLO, ERNESTO C. APEC Party List

PANCHO, PEDRO M. Bulacan, 2nd District

PANCRUDO, CANDIDO P. JR. Bukidnon, 1st District

PICHAY, PHILIP A. Surigao Del Sur, 1st District

PIñOL, BERNARDO F. JR. North Cotabato, 2nd District

PUNO, ROBERTO V. Antipolo City, 1st District

RAMIRO, HERMINIA M. Misamis Occidental, 2nd District

REMULLA, JESUS CRISPIN C. Cavite, 3rd District

REYES, CARMELITA O. Marinduque, Lone District

REYES, VICTORIA H. Batangas, 3rd District

ROBES, ARTURO G. San Jose Del Monte City, Lone District

Rodriguez-Zaldarriaga, Adelina Rizal, 2nd District

ROMAN, HERMINIA B. Bataan, 1st District

ROMARATE, GUILLERMO A. JR. Surigao del Norte, 2nd District

ROMUALDEZ, FERDINAND MARTIN G. Leyte, 1st District

ROMUALDO, PEDRO Camiguin, Lone District

ROMULO, ROMAN T. Pasig City, Lone District

ROXAS, JOSE ANTONIO F. Pasay City

SALIMBANGON, BENHUR L. Cebu, 4th District

SALVACION JR., ANDRES D. Leyte, 3rd District

SAN LUIS, EDGAR S. Laguna, 4th District

SANDOVAL, ALVIN S. Malabon-Navotas, Lone District

SANTIAGO, JOSEPH A. Catanduanes, Lone District

SANTIAGO, NARCISO D. (III) ARC Party List

SEACHON-LANETE, RIZALINA L. 3rd district of Masbate

SEARES-LUNA, CECILIA M. Abra, Lone District

SILVERIO, LORNA C. Bulacan, 3rd District

SINGSON, ERIC D. Ilocos Sur, 2nd District

SINGSON, RONALD V. Ilocos Sur, 1st District

SOLIS, JOSE G. Sorsogon, 2nd District

SOON-RUIZ, NERISSA CORAZON Cebu, 6th District

SUAREZ, DANILO E. Quezon, 3rd District

SUSANO, MARY ANN L. Quezon City, 2nd District

SY-ALVARADO, MA. VICTORIA R. Bulacan, 1st District

SYJUCO, JUDY J. 2nd Dsitrict, Iloilo

TALINO-MENDOZA, EMMYLOU J. North Cotabato, 1st District

TAN, SHAREE ANN T. Samar, 2nd District

TEODORO, MARCELINO R. Marikina City, 1st District

TEODORO, MONICA LOUISSE PRIETO Tarlac, 1st District

TEVES, PRYDE HENRY A. Negros Oriental, 3rd District

TUPAS, NEIL C. JR. Iloilo, 5th District

UNGAB, ISIDRO T. Davao City, 3rd District

UY, EDWIN C. Isabela, 2nd District

UY, REYNALDO S. Samar, 1st District

UY, ROLANDO A. Cagayan De Oro City, Lone District

VALDEZ, EDGAR L. APEC Party List

VALENCIA, RODOLFO G. Oriental Mindoro, 1st District

VARGAS, FLORENCIO L. Cagayan, 2nd District

VILLAFUERTE, LUIS R. Camarines Sur, 2nd District

VILLAROSA, MA. AMELITA C. Occidental Mindoro, Lone District

VIOLAGO, JOSEPH GILBERT F. Nueva Ecija, 2nd District

YAP, JOSE V. Tarlac, 2nd District

YU, VICTOR J. Zamboanga Del Sur, 1st District

ZAMORA, MANUEL E. 1st District, Compostela Valley

ZIALCITA, EDUARDO C. Parañaque, 1st District

———————————————————————-

Eight years strong and counting. We are being dragged to hell (as if this isn’t hell enough). Remain vigilant my dear countrymen. Even fallen angels pray, so pray harder. Even lameducks run, so run faster.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mamatay ang corrupt!

And oh, hey, here’s to the plotters of constitutional rape, a song for you. See, I’m not so bad. :)

Note: If the embedded music doesn’t play, click here (opens a new window).

If She’s Here, Who’s Running Hell? (Four-Year Strong)

Take it or leave me behind because you know that you never did care at all.

My poor ears have had it, you’re coming in static.

Face down on the floor, tuned out across the board like a million times before.

You’re living it up now, just wait until it goes down.

How did you get everything you want

When you never did a thing to deserve what you got?

You’ve got it made, got it all for yourself because that’s the only thing

You really seem to care about.

Something tells me I’m in for something good, then the bottle opens

And here we go again.

I won’t let you drag me down, no

Not one bit to get yourself back up.

I hope that, for your sake, you make it out in time.

So leave the light on or you’ll never make it out alive.

Save it for someone who cares.

You should know that I never did care at all.

And now my sore eyes have had it, I’m kicking this habit.

So pick it up just like you said you’d do, because you’ve always got a point to prove.

It’s win or lose, it’s time to choose

You play it like you’re hard, but I think I’m on to you.

YOU’RE BEARING LIES ON YOUR CHEST!

THE BOTTLE OPENS AGAIN AND HERE WE GO AGAIN!!

Something tells me I’m in for something good.

Tell me how you like it.

Something tells me I’m in for something good, then the bottle opens

And here we go again.

I won’t let (won’t let) you drag me down, no

Not one bit to get (to get) yourself back up.

I hope that, for your sake, you make it out in time.

So leave the light on or you’ll never make it out alive.

Won’t let (won’t let) you drag me down, no

Not one bit to get (to get) yourself back up.

I hope that, for your sake, you make it out in time.

So leave the light on or you’ll never make it out alive.

All you have has been falling down around you

And I found a way, found a way, to get along without you

———————————————————————

Feeling generous today? Donate and help pay for this blog's webhosting fees.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!Suggested Further Reading:

Eight Years Strong: If She’s Here, Who’s Running Hell? is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

The Day The Philippines Rocked Twitter Trends

RJ Marmol — Mon, 11 May 2009 13:51:46 +0000

The day after Mother's Day 2009 -- May 11th, was a usual day at Twitter. Startrek discussions have not quite ended, and so are those about Mother's Day. But 2100H, Manila time (GMT+8), while tweeting and looking at the trending topics (which I do half the time while I tweet), I found a pleasant surprise -- "Philippines" is trending on Twitter! Now, I'm not really sure if this has happened before, since the implementation of the "Trending Topics" sidebar, but I sure am one happy patriotic and nationalistic Filipino twitterer to see my country make it to the top 10 "Trending Topics" on Twitter. I mean, considering how many seemingly endless and varied topics are discussed on Twitter everyday, for a topic to make it to the top 10 is remarkable. I don't know exactly what triggered it, who started it or whether it was just incidental or anything, but one thing is for sure, Twitter sure "changes the conversation" and it's so powerful that it can bring a lot of people together. It was delightful to suddenly see how Pinoys reacted and suddenly participated in the discussion and how everyone else from around the Twittersphere, all around the world started joining in to find out why "Philippines" is trending. Then came tweets about fun facts about the Philippines, our kababayans abroad suddenly tweeting how they miss the food, the people, the beaches. And how other nationalities tweet about good experiences they've had about their previous visit/s to the Philippines. It's heart-warming. It evokes pride and nationalism. It evokes, above all things, the feeling of hope for this country we dearly love.

The 2010 Philippine Presidential Elections is happening a year from now. And I think, in this technology-driven era we live in, it would be in our best interest to use technology in a way that will be beneficial to our country. Social networks are no doubt the ruler of the web at this point. And Twitter leads the herd.

If you tweet, let us use tweeting to promote awareness and spread relevant, useful and timely information as it relates to the upcoming 2010 Philippine Presidential Elections. The internet is a powerful tool. How we use that power is up to us. Let's use it to better ourselves and our nation.

For tweets about the upcoming elections, I recommend using the #philippines2010 hashtag. Let's start a conversation. Who knows, maybe a single tweet can change the Philippine future. All it takes is one, two, three tweets. Mabuhay Twitter! Mabuhay Philippines! Mabuhay ang Pilipino!

If you're still not on Twitter, where have you been all this time? :) Sign up for Twitter now! And, while you're at it, you might want to follow me on Twitter, too. Tweet you soon!

P.S.
Further research showed me other possible reasons why "Philippines" made it to the "Trending Topics":
1. Recent typhoon/s that wrecked Bicol and Pangasinan, leaving more or less 40 casualties.
2. David Archuleta and David Cook of American Idol are coming over here for a concert performance.
3. Eventual enthusiastic tweeting of Filipinos following the first two.
4. Just because. :)Suggested Further Reading:

The Day The Philippines Rocked Twitter Trends is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Earth Day 2009: More Than A Pledge, We Need A Radical Lifestyle Change

RJ Marmol — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 15:04:19 +0000

Photo by Cayusa

Fresh from March 28, 2009's well-celebrated and well-participated Earth Hour, Bloggers Unite, myself and my fellow bloggers are here once again, nudging and nagging perhaps to the point of annoying you to push for an immediate change in the way we treat our dear planet.

The signs of wear and tear are evident. Our over-indulgence and carelessness has taken its toll on this beautiful world we live in. No longer can we remain in our comfort zones, shut our eyes and cover our ears to the cries of
Mother Nature. Whoever coined the phrase "you can run but you can't hide" is most probably referring to the consequence we will face in exchange for our wasteful and irresponsible ways of dealing with Earth.

Now, I don't know about you, but I think, these people organizing this Earth Day event, the Earth Hour and similar undertakings aren't doing these things simply because they are "cute", "fun" or "morally acceptable". The problem is REAL and it is HERE. And doomsday prophecy as it may sound, truth is there really is nowhere to hide. If this planet goes down in flames, we all go down with it -- no exceptions. No special treatment. No way out.

And no matter how advanced we may appear to have become, we are still no match for our dear planet's wrath, should it decide to instantaneously blow up or eventually die on us. After all, we've been negligent for so long, and this planet can only take so much.

There is no other planet for us but Earth. And even if there was another, I bet you'd still choose Earth all over again.

Earth Day 2009 is a call to ACTION -- a call for tangible, measurable acts of the so-called GREEN GENERATION -- no coal, green schools, renewable energy and energy-efficient designs and technologies. The awareness stage is over. Or at least most of it is. We already know what to do. We already know what we can do. But do we actually DO it?

I'm not trying to be self-righteous here. I too, am guilty of inadequacies. What I lacked in action, I compensated in writing. But that is not enough. I know. So now, I urge you, dear friends -- LET'S DO IT. AND DO IT RIGHT. It takes more than a pledge to nail this problem to the ground. It takes a radical, conscious effort on our part to effect change -- one that's for the better -- one that serves the general good -- and one that's for the long-term.

Starting today, I will make that conscious effort. I will do it regularly until it becomes a habit -- until this habit becomes a virtue -- and I will not stop until this virtue ultimately becomes a part of me -- until I become the virtue itself in the flesh.

April 22, 2009 is Earth Day.

You know the drill: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Don't commit. Do it. There is no other way.Suggested Further Reading:

Earth Day 2009: More Than A Pledge, We Need A Radical Lifestyle Change is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Lights Out Tonight: My Present for the Future

RJ Marmol — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 00:28:47 +0000

Photo by Wesley Fryer

Stop Waiting On the World To Change! Let's begin!

Click here to listen to "Waiting on the World To Change" by: John Mayer

Tonight, at exactly 8:30 until 9:30 (Manila Time), this house I live in will be in total darkness. It is Earth Hour.

Monsters and thieves won't scare me. Bugs and rodents won't either.

For the first time in my life, I will not be afraid of the dark.

I will not resent the fact that I can't watch TV,

or update my Facebook, Twitter or Plurk online.

And for the first time in my life, I will be elated to be offline.

I have signed-up for this cause online together with my fellow bloggers at Bloggers Unite.

And I pledge to solidify my support offline.

I will urge my neighbors to join me.

And teach my son why we do this and let him know that it is for him.

I hope you will join me, dear friends and readers.

After all, this is your planet too.

This same earth is the sole cradle that cheerily wakes us up in the morning

And in the night, ever so gently rocks us to sleep.

No, I will not lecture you about the clear and present danger that is Global Warming.

Because if you have not been living in a cave for the past ten years or so,

Chances are, you've probably heard enough of it.

All that's left undone is our active participation.

Tonight is a mission. Tonight is a battle.

I will not falter, or change my mind, or change course or surrender.

Because in exchange for this hour-long dark "present" is a long-term bright "future".

It's a small sacrifice for this planet I live in, if I can even call it sacrifice at all.

This is my present for the future. Make it yours too.

Tonight, 8:30-9:30 is Earth Hour.

Switch off your lights to show your support for Mother Earth.

Consider this urgent. Consider this important.

It's not about saving energy.

It's about saving the earth.

It's about saving OURSELVES and our children's children.

And nothing could be more urgent than that.Suggested Further Reading:

Lights Out Tonight: My Present for the Future is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Today is International Women’s Day

RJ Marmol — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 03:22:17 +0000

"..And she'll promise you more
Than the Garden of Eden
Then she'll carelessly cut you

And laugh while you're bleedin'
But she'll bring out the best

And the worst you can be
Blame it all on yourself
Cause she's always a woman to me..."

-- from "She's Always A Woman" by Billy Joel

(Click here to listen to this song.)

I woke up pretty late today -- a lot late than usual. Probably because it's a Sunday. But guess the first thing that came to my mind that evoked a wide smile on my face? Today -- March 8, 2009 is International Women's Day! It's my day. Ladies, it's our day! I'm sure by now, Bloggers Unite participating bloggers are churning-out posts and populating the web with "women's day" articles.

Having that thought in mind, I immediately logged in to my desktop and decided to start this day with really good "ladies music". I plan to have coffee after this post, shop for food, watch a movie, read a good book and savor every minute of this day. After all, I know that this day is being celebrated and commemorated the world over -- not just by women like me, but more so, by men who acknowledge, understand and appreciate the wonderful role that women play in their lives and society in general. Your mother. Your grandmother. Your aunt. Your niece. Your cousin. Your friend. Your classmate. Your officemate. Your boss. The world, with all its hassles and burdens, becomes a little more bearable because of that female that inspires you to go to work or that lady at the grocery store that's a little more helpful or that appreciative boss who recognizes your efforts for a job well done.

Women, as I've mentioned before in a previous post, have now become prime movers and shakers of society. Gone are the days when their task is limited to household chores and gone are the days when they were preferred to "be seen and not heard". Today, in a more tolerant and modern society, women have gone far beyond territories that their predecessors were allowed to roam in.They have exceeded expectations in the economic, social and even political arena. No longer can it be said that women are inferior by any measure. History is replete with stories of successful women in various fields.

But let it be said, for the purpose of fair discussion and display of gratefulness, that this so-called "girl power" generation has been successful partly and in by no means lesser, because of the fact that the men of our generation have been supportive of women. And for that, I would like to honor these men as well, who saw beyond the beauty of women -- men who saw that what lies within is far greater than what was evident in that disarming smile or that long, shiny pair of adorable, sexy legs.

I honor and congratulate women from all over the world, from the past to the present -- and yes, even to the women of the future, of the accomplishments they have made, are making and will make. Ladies, this is your day.

Today we celebrate International Women's Day -- officially. But to me, and to most people surrounded by wonderful women, Everyday is Women's Day!

Suggested Further Reading:

Today is International Women’s Day is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Bloggers Unite: International Women’s Day – March 8, 2009

RJ Marmol — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 08:42:42 +0000

The role of women in our society should never be underestimated for it can never be fully measured or understood. Let us not forget that in the ranks of people who have created change and peppered our history with remarkable stories of sacrifices for the greater good of mankind in general, there are countless faces of beautiful women, inside and out, who have made their mark and made this world a better, safer and lovelier place for all of us. From the self-effacing mothers who stay with us every waking hour of our lives to that corporate executive who makes invaluable decisions that make or break a company's financial future, to that lady soldier fighting it out with terrorists in hostile grounds, to that patient school teacher who teaches with so much love and passion, to that skillful worker who weaves the very fabric of our clothes and society -- the women of our lives are no doubt, the movers and shakers of our times and of the past.

March 8, 2009 is International Women's Day. Let us remember the women of our lives -- women whose steady hands and watchful (rolling) eyes have been with us through thick and thin, enduring all, in the service of the people they forever love and will protect for as long as they live -- generations upon generations after.

I urge all bloggers, men and women alike, to participate in this blogswarm. Help spread the word and let us all write a blog post on March 8, 2009 -- the International Women's Day. Show some love to the women of our lives! Blog.

Celebrate. Remember. Women. Love. 03.08.09 IWDSuggested Further Reading:

Bloggers Unite: International Women’s Day – March 8, 2009 is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.

Today is “Pangea Day”!

RJ Marmol — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:18:00 +0000

Today, May 10th, marks the first run of "Pangea Day". It is a global event whose mission is to unite the world through film and music. Cairo, Kigali, London, Los Angeles, Mumbai, and Rio de Janeiro will be joined together for a live program that will showcase films, live music and speakers. It is remarkable that this entire show will be broadcast in seven languages through the internet, television and mobile phones through the support of Nokia. A slew of select films, all 24, will be showcased in the event. These films have been chosen through a contest participated by over a hundred countries and generated over 2,500 entries! It will run for four amazing hours featuring performances from music artists and visionary speakers with no less than Queen Noor of Jordan, CNN's Christiane Amanpour, musician/activist Bob Geldof, and Iranian rock phenom Hypernova participating in the event.

Who's Idea is this?

From award-winning filmmaker Jehane Noujaim who won the TED prize in the annual TED Conference, came this idea, a wish that the world come together for a day through film. This was the realization of that wish.

Why the name?

"Pangea" is a term used to call the single, big continent the world used to be 250 million years ago. As you know, various environmental conditions resulted into its break-up to the continents we know today. So "Pangea Day" is anchored on that hope, that although now physically apart, we are still one world. We are essentially one continent, with the same aspirations, dreams and goals.

My Thoughts

The real essence of "Pangea Day" however, rests in the gradual change that it expects to generate from the event. Because long after the movie's over, the music's gone, and the speeches done, the fact remains that the world is in chaos. There are pressing issues around the globe. Local insurgency, terrorism, food and energy crisis, global warming and climate change, politics and atrocities being committed here and there. I pray that those who participate in this event whether directly or indirectly would effect change in their lives that would cause a chain reaction and inspire more and more people to do the same. As I write this, I am listening to an internet radio stream, the song goes:

" If I had one chance to
In my life again
I wouldn't make no changes
Now or way back when
And if everything turns out
The way I hope it goes
But I cant wait to find out
What it is that God knows
But I don't wanna think about
What's gonna come around for me
I'll just take it day by day
'Cause it's the only way
To be the best that I can be..."

I hope we all turn out to be the best that we can be. And I hope we take it a day at a time. Change will not happen overnight. But it always feels good to know that we're doing something about it, however little. Today is "Pangea Day". Happy "Pangea Day" everyone!

Suggested Further Reading:

No related or similar posts found for this entry.

Today is “Pangea Day”! is another original post from: adayinthelifeofrj.com
If you are not reading this blog post via an RSS reader, this content is stolen. Please contact the site administrator at stolen@adayinthelifeofrj.com. Thank you.