25 Wisdoms (25 Things I learned at 25)

So I just turned 26 this year, I’m so old k? haha. It’s really been an eye opening year for me and the pressure really hit me this time. Anyways that would be another blogpost, I’m still winging it haha and I can’t wait what will happen to me this year.

I am sharing to you, 25 Wisdoms (25 Things I learned at 25). I was suppose to do this on my birthday last June 17 but I was really really busy. Anyways it’s been a month already and I still say that I am 25 whenever people ask me my age. It still hasn’t sinked in yet haha.

Before I share my 25 wisdoms, these are all based on my personal experiences and I am no pro or the best person. All random haha, but I would like to ask a favor to respect my private life. I won’t go into deeper details and no further questions, please. A girl doesn’t kiss and tell.

Anyways 🙂

  1.  “Huwag  ka maghanap ng kulang sa life mo and huwag ma inggit sa ibang tao”.  In English: Be content and don’t be jealous of other people.  Just wait, be patient, work hard and trust in God’s timing.                                                          
  2. “Love lang and don’t expect anything para hindi ka masaktan”. In English: Just love and don’t expect anything in return, so you won’t get hurt.                                    
  3.  “I really believe that whatever is for me, will never pass me”. -Shaina Magdayao. Yes, let it happen organically and don’t force it. Here is a vlog from Bianca Gonzales’ Paano Ba To with Shaina Magdayao https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qw1J_pPIjqw

    screen grab https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qw1J_pPIjqw
  4. Trust your gut and instinct. This one took years to develop and lately when I meet new people it’s not that I don’t like them, it’s that I don’t like their energy and vibe.
  5. Your public and private personality should be the same. Be authentic “magpaka totoo ka”. Yet still keep your private life, private. Not all things have to be posted on social media. Why? I don’t wan’t to jinx it. Remember, Love is quiet, Infatuation is loud. 
  6.  Love yourself and your BODY,  As cliche’ as it sounds-  it’s true. You don’t base your happiness from other people, it should start with yourself.  Do what makes you happy. That’s why I have ME TIME and I remove things or unfiend/ avoid people who are toxic.  #SelfCare #MeTime                                                                                                                                                        I am a body positive advocate, last year  my motto was YOLO so I ate whatever I want that’s why I gained a lot of weight and didn’t go to the gym that often. This year, before turning 26, I had health issues and I noticed how my body is changing. That’s why I had to modify my lifestyle. I wouldn’t lose weight if it wasn’t my health on the line and I want to feel good about myself. Plus it’s also part of my job to be photographed all the time, I want to look good atleast. #WhenAgingHitsYou 
  7. Believe in the Law of Attraction and do meditation(Incense Sticks).
    https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/580119995722186758/

    Start of first with your body (#6) by eating good & healthy food (plus workout). Once you feel good in the inside and the rest will follow and attract.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          This year, I started using incense sticks when I meditate(atleast once a week). Benefits of Incense sticks:https://www.vectiskarma.co.uk/Benefits-of-Burning-Incense   

  8. Travel more! I grew up travelling and I believe it  hones character, cultural awareness and  being more open. Try travelling alone too, it is really liberating. Travel as much when you’re single especially. I like to do this before I get married because once you settle down everything and priorities changes. While you are still young and you have the energy, what’s the rush!                                                          
  9. When it comes to friendship, for me HONESTY is the most important aspect more than loyalty. This was based on a personal experience.
  10. Say sorry once, twice is okay but Three times is abusive. I heard this from a taxi driver and he had a point.                                  
  11. Dating: Start as FRIENDS. The best foundation.                                                                                                                                                     Let me insert, if the guy is not single, MOVE ON.
  12. Relationships : Never make your partner, choose. You compromise and work things out maturely. If you two are meant to be together, you’ll end up together, let destiny do it’s job – According to my Mom.
  13. Know your LOVE LANGUAGE (also your partner, for future reference).  link:https://www.5lovelanguages.com/
  14. You will not always be motivated so you must learn to be DISCIPLINE.           I realized recently that I lacked action and I am working on it.
  15. Before I turned 26, I realized as you get older your circle of friends become smaller.  I was browsing on my old photos during my previous birthdays and I noticed the number of invites compared this year. Remember, other people have their own lives and just be happy for them. Anyways time to move on, make more new friends and just having 1 solid friend is enough. That’s part of growing up.
  16. Find a workout that you enjoy and you make time for it. For me I enjoy cycling and recently pound. It’s more of a personality thing. Try to switch up your workout too time to time so you won’t get bored and your body might get used to it. If you are trying to lose weight, 70% Diet (Kain talaga!) and 30% exercise, BIBLE! (Keeping Up with the Kardashian reference.)                        
  17.  I am at an age, this applies to some situations “Bahala ka kung saan ka masaya” or “Hayaan mo sila”.  In english: “It’s up to you for as long you are happy” or “Just mind your own business.” I get asked too about bashers, I just don’t mind them anymore.Just let KARMA do it’s job.
  18. When I show skin on social media, I choose an appropriate platform which is more on instagram but it should be in a classy way. NOT just too much, “hindi yung pabigay or seeking attention”. Like I show some skin because I am in the beach or fruit of my labor because I work really hard in the gym – that is okay.  There is appropriation and RESPECT for yourself.                                                                                                                                                              I realized, that in the future when I have kids or when I get married what would they think of me. My future daughter might say, “You did that when you were my age, mom”. There would be consequences. (“May balik yan”).                 
  19. Love is NOT blind, your judgment is just clouded.                                                                     
  20. When you notice that someone treats you differently or there is a sudden change in how they treat you, just understand, people go through a something in their personal life.
  21. When a guy says he is busy, believe him. What attracts him more towards you is that if he sees that you have a life, if he sees this world that you can offer, he would want to be part of it. Men are natural hunters.  – Matthew Hussey
  22. Don’t take things too personally.
  23. Take things ONE thing at a time. People always say, I have a lot of things going on in my life #multihyphenate. They think I have good time management haha seriously NOT AT ALL haha, I just wing it. I just like living in the moment and being spontaneous. Sometimes when you plan it doesn’t happen haha.
  24.  When Sh%tty things happen in your life, Just accept things and say what is this teaching me? Sometimes, I don’t want to be too happy because something bad may happen in return (“pag masayado ka masaya may kapalit) Tip: This is a traditional thing, when you are so happy or laughing hard, “magpunit ng papel” or cut/shred paper into smaller pieces). Just be calm and be neutral always. Learn also to forgive yourself, you are not perfect.
  25. GOD FIRST always.

    Me at 26 <3

 

Here is what you can do to Help BDJ’s The Pahina Project

As an blogger or so called “influencer” (Honestly, I don’t deserve to be part of the spectrum because I personally feel that I still have a long way to go), I’ve come to realize that sometimes having this title can also help raise awareness to your  passion project. For me, I always like giving back to people, it’s in my nature and when it comes to comes EDUCATION, it definitely soft spot for me. With the launch of THE PAHINA PROJECT – Race to Raise 2000 Notebooks. The rules are simple: for every notebook you buy, we donate one. We also gave options to buy and donate both notebooks to deserving students.
Packages:
For the whole month of April, you can avail the
advocacy notebooks in the
following packages:
Buy 1 Donate 1 for P100, 
Buy and Donate 2 for P100
Buy and Donate 10 for P500
Link to BDJ Microsite where they can purchase the advocacy
notebooks:
It’s not that much guys but it would really be a big help, instead of buying a Starbucks cup why won’t you buy a notebook, it’s useful for the kids plus you know at your end you helped someone. Simple act of kindness would be a huge impact for someone’s future especially Education. 

 

Things that 20 Something (-ish) Should Invest On #WisdomWednesday

 #WisdomWednesday

As I turn 24 years old this year, I’ve already mastered the art of PLAN A TO Z (hardly and striving). Seriously I suck at #adulting and I’ve had some realizations that I would really like to share to my readers. Plus, It would also be a constant reminder to myself that I would look back if I’ve barely made good decisions in my life, atleast I’m on track (That’s a first). If you guys are like me figuring things out – Don’t worry you’ll get there! It can be frustrating but that’s the thrill of life. DON’T FORCE IT and DO WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO. 

Since I’ve started working, I realized the value of things and that you can do anything you want (Basta enjoy lang) – especially to me while I’m still single HAHA

Here are my tips (I’m no expert tho but I’ve tried to sort things out that 20 something should not deprived themselves for)

1. Travel & adventure

While young, whatever thing is on your bucketlist – DO IT. Iba kasi ang energy pag young. I mean there is no age limit to enjoy life but taking advantage of our youth is one thing. Be in this Live in the moment and YOLO

GRAB EVERY OPPORTUNITY!

2. Good quality camera / smartphone with HD Camera

Thanks to the Digital age, we can store memories in HD and  always capturing those IG worthy moments.

3. Intimate wear (underwear & bras)

This I learned from my mom, as you get older you realize that it important to have a good set underwear and bra. It makes you feel mature & let’s say polished – plus the comfort. (Knock on wood hopefully it doesn’t happen) Incase of emergency and you get rushed to the Emergency Room atleast you have a good pair under when they have to cut your clothes.

4. Insurance / Policy / Stocks 

If only I could bring back time I would have started during college like from a part of my allowance would go to a monthly/semi/quarterly deposit. If I started at 17 and at 25 years old I should have enough money to travel across the world with the money I saved.

It’s still never too late – I just started mine a year ago and with my spending, I’m glad I have something at the side #Security If you have the means to buy properties  WHY NOT – for as long kaya mo maintain (huwag maging magyabang pag hindi kaya)

Always have SAVINGS on the side incase of emergency.

Tip: Do extensive research with what policy / investment plan you want.

5. Further education/vocational courses

There is no limit to education – always learn and be BETTER. Get your masters and learn something you’ve always wanted which is out of your comfort zone!

6. Skin care

I do love makeup! But its not all the time makeup will save you. Mas maganda pag natural yung glow. Invest in products and treatments “hiyang” for you. If you feel going under the knife – nobody is stopping you. (As long legit & safe)

Presenting yourself physically is always first. The inside is the most important but the outside/ physical beauty comes first.

BEAUTY MUST HAVE: sunscreen & moisturizer

7. Health

This is regarding FITNESS, invest in a gym or outdoor activity. Invest in supplements you may need also and EAT anything you want for as long its balance plus you work out 3-4 a week. Plus your every 6 month visit to your dentist too!

Lately, I LOVE CYCLING AND RPM 

8. Basic

To look good and put together, the basics should be available in your wardrobe – important fashion staple that doesn’t go out of style.

Keep it SIMPLE, CLASSY & MINIMALIST

9. Good relationships & connections

It doesn’t have to be ROMANTIC all the time, for me its investing in genuine people who has proven their worth to you. Spend time with people who don’t bring you down whether it be family and friends. These are the people you’ll lean towards to when you are down. Be open to meeting new people from all walks of life – but always trust your gut.

IN LIFE, It’s not what you know, it’s WHO you know.

10. CONCERTS / MUSICALS

It’s the most unexplained feeling – whenever I’m in a concert it brings this different joy and adrenaline.

DREAM DATE: CONCERT.

DREAM CONCERT: COACHELLA

11. A GOOD BAG (with HYGIENE KIT)

I’ve sorted out the kinds of bags I have: 

a. A minimalist backpack with lots of compartments – Good for school, work and travel plus you’ll be in style.

b. Luggage- especially for travel.

c. Casual Bag – I preferably use a medium size spacey bag with a sling since I always have a lot of things plus pairing the bag with a fashionable statement keychain piece.

d. Chain bag – Instead of bringing a clutch (sometimes I use clutch on various occasions) I prefer a black classy chain bag since I like bringing lots of stuff 

e. Gym bag

12. JOURNAL 

Proper time management and keep things up-to-date

13. A KILLER LIPPIE 

To add some pop of color to your face.

Lastly, THE BEST KIND OF INVESTMENT

14. Invest on yourself.

Take time to LOVE YOURSELF until you feel complete – Do what you need to do that would make you happy. 

Any more thoughts? Feel free to comment below

 

Bakit Lahat Ng Gwapo May Boyfriend?!

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I’ve asked myself the same thing and no one can supplement that answer, ever since college it has been a trend in the gym that it is “uso” for the gays to have gainz – “palakihan ng katawan”. In Metro Manila, you can spot one easily with your gaydar, but not all maybe some have “malamya” tendencies and moves that are close to their feminine side. Don’t judge agad, there are signs. I am no expert, but if you feel it,  you know. I did had a crush on a gay guy, I just accepted it and move on since I’m not what he really wants. I love the gay community because I have good friends who are gays but sometimes I’m like “Bat nagkaka ubusan na ng lalaki dito sa Pilipinas HUHU” – Kung hindi kasal, may jowa, bakla naman.

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MOVIE TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jvm7cpHAjwc

Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo May Boyfriend?! Starring Anne Curtis, Dennis Trillo, Paolo Ballesteros, Yam Concepcion and more! Brought to you by Viva Films and The Idea First Company, Directed by Jun Lana. The gist of the movie  revolves with the 3 main characters, Anne who plays Kylie unfortunately she is a “CLOSETA-MAGNET” / COVER GIRL – whenever she falls in love with a guy turns out to be gay.  The handsome Benj, played by Paolo Ballesteros and CONFIRMED! na bakla plays as Kylie’s bestfriend and former flame, yes CLOSETA siya and only Kylie knows about it. Then here comes the Diego, Benj’s first/ puppy love who came back from the states, he hired Benj and Kylie to be the wedding planners to his upcoming wedding with Fiona played by Yam Concepcion.

BEHIND THE SCENES CLIP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QECR8jEQnAM

This movie is very light and entertaining, It was so funny and you have to watch out for #RamonRamon – jack of all trades in the movie. In terms of the story, it is different, not your typical love story and most likely relatable that’s why everyone was at the edge of their seat jerking a laughter.

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Like I said Hands down to Anne for this role, as always a fire cracker and never fails to bring out the character’s persona. She played Kylie well and she was able to bring out the emotions needed- ma fefeel mo. I know every girl has been through that stage na “What is wrong with me” and coming from a standpoint of a cover girl – may kulang ba sa part mo.

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Anne is what you call yung babaeng bakla (who is so gorgeous and dyosa ng mga bakla) and that’s why she doesn’t have to put much effort into the role. Her chemistry with Dennis Trillo was something unexpected, super nakakakilig sila! (and nakakakilig kissing scenes nila – Watch out for the scene where Anne has to act as Fiona because Fiona couldn’t make it) They both worked and looked good together on screen I don’t usually fuzz about love teams except for Jadine but I would definitely ship Anne & Dennis. I suddenly had a crush on Dennis Trillo because of this movie. Scene to watch out for: Anne and Dennis duet – must watch it.

Benj is such a loving character, not a single hate- He would be the perfect gay bestfriend. You would understand the standpoint of his role na umasa din at nag assume – All of us wants to be loved and accepted. For Benj, he did have his happy-ending WITH…. If you know someone who is “closeta” hayaan mo lang sila umamin, just love & accept  the way the person is.

Diego as confusing as it seems has the tendencies to be GAY, He fits the checklist but he ain’t GAY. Apparently Kylie is attracted to gays kaya na fall din siya kay Diego and  YES, pa fall ito si Diego. In the end naging confusing din feelings ni Diego. Hay naku!

Fiona who plays the fiancée of Diego, is what we all girls want to be – beautiful, smart, strong & independent woman, the thing is she is too career-driven. For us girls, we should put our careers first like what my mom says “Para di ka kawawa”. Well in the story she risked a job offer for Diego , she used it to backfire at Diego- sa simula pa lang mali na talaga to begin with. Kaya the lovebirds slowly change and getting to know each other more while doing the wedding preparations.

At the end, the movie is all about love – love has no gender and it comes in all forms.  To all the girls (like me na naghinihtay at naghahanap), boys din and gays, you know just keep doing what you need to do and put yourself first, love will eventually come and it doesn’t have to be too complicated – you just have to work on it #LOVEWINS

Bakit Lahat Ng Gwapo May Boyfriend Coming out on October 19, 2016 SHOWING NATIONWIDE!

 

 

 

Millennial Hacks: Paying Bills in a Jiffy with Bayad Center

As a busy girl who wants to get things done in a jiffy, paying her bills is a mandatory errand to do every month. I usually pay at the nearest bayad center near my home and whenever I am at the mall – for my convenience. Now Bayad center has made it even better, hassle-free, more options for the young millennials and for those young at heart.

Hassle-Free Bills Payment with Bayad Center

As technology and innovations continue to make our lives easier, we become more aware of different life-hacks – things that help make our daily activities less complicated, giving us time to do more important things like work, going to the gym, attending events, for me blogging, working and household errands.

Paying multiple bills, as you will agree,continues to be a daunting task for us adults as we have to transfer from one place to another,switch from one website to another, just to beat the clock so to speak.Do you know that Bayad Center has transformed itself to a multi-channel facility to help us in whichever situation we’re in? Talk about ultimate convenience.

Over-The-Counter

We know this — BAYAD CENTERhas over 5,000 payment locations nationwide, accepting more than 200 types of bills in its roster.

Take for instance our area in (PLEASE INDICATE YOUR CITY), we see a lot of Bayad Center branches carrying that “bahay-kubo” icon and the Meralco seal on their signages. These branches are strategically located in commercial centers and other convergence areas to cater to your payment needs, as well as other services like Prepaid Loading, Airline Ticketing, and Remittance Payout.

If you’re the one who prefers paying their bills while doing shopping or groceries, Bayad Center powers the bills payment facility of Robinsons Malls & Supermarkets, Savemore, Waltermart, Alfamart, Isetann, Landmark, Sta. Lucia Mall, San Roque Supermarkets, and the Gaisano Malls, so you get the same seal of service and integrity in your payments.

Aside from these establishments, Bayad Center also runs the payment system of LBC, Philpost, 2Go, CebuanaLhuillier, M. Lhuillier, Tambunting, Villarica, BHF Pawnshop, CVM Pawnshop, Raquel Pawnshop, Palawan Pawnshop, as well as major Western union agents like USSC, eBiz, Pera Hub, and DA5. There’s Luzon Development Bank and Citystate Savings Bank as well.

Overseas Over-The-Counter, Mobile Application &Web-based Facility

(IF YOU HAVE A RELATIVE WORKING OVERSEAS YOU MAY WANT TO INDICATE HOW THIS MIGHT HELP THEM)

Understanding the needs of our Kababayans overseas,Bayad Center has partnered withSaudi Call, for those who are in Saudi Arabia&Ventajawhich branches are present worldwide. With these partnerships OFW’s process of sending money to pay for the family’s bills are easily shortened.If you are an OFW who prefers a mobile application, there is – miLinewhich caters if you are in the countries of Singapore, Japan, Honkong& UAE.You can simply download the app for an easy way of paying bills back home.miLine’s bills payment system is powered by Bayad Center. On the other hand, Partnership with PLDT Globalallows overseas Filipinos to conveniently manage their payables back home through an easy to use web- based payment facility – simply log on to www.smartpinoystore.com. Through the Bayad CenterInternational Bills Pay, overseas workers can already settle their household bills over-the-counter through these accredited partners of Bayad Center in the different countries abroad.

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ATM’s? Well Bayad Center now has APM’s or Automated Payment Machines (APM). Bayad Center’s Touchpay Machines areself-service kiosks whose primary use is to help reduce payors’ waiting time in different payment convergence zones. These APM’s are strategically installed in buildings such as the biller’s business offices, government offices, BPOs, factories, malls, and convenience stores nationwide.

Aside from Bills Payment, the TOUCHPAY MACHINE also offers other services namely, Prepaid Loading, Top-up, E-money, and many more. It’s an easy-to-use machine operating 24/7 so you can pay bills whenever your schedule permits.

Retail Machine

Want to pay your bills but don’t have enough time to go to commercial areas? Bayad Center’s Retail Machine is the answer to your problem. The Retail Machinescan be installed inSmall & Medium Enterprises such as your ever reliable sari-sari stores, neighborhood pet shops & carwash centers, cooperative offices and even PUV terminals,offering services such as bills payment, remittance & E-Loading.

Soon customers can even pay through their credit card, debit card, or Beep card.

Bayad Center Online

If you’re one of those who prefer doing everything online, Bayad Center Online can cater your payment needs thru http://www.bayadcenteronline.com/. Paying bills is now made easier at the comfort of your home. And since this is a web-based facility, you can also view and do the transactions on your mobile phone wherever, whenever.

With Bayad Center, every Filipino, wherever they may be, can always be assured of #TatakSigurado! This is a testament of millions of Filipinos using the service. Now with a multi-channel facility, paying bills has never been easier with Bayad Center.

For more information about Bayad Center, visit http://www.bayadcenter.com. Follow them on Facebook: @BayadCenterOfficial

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Camp Sawi: “Balang Araw”

“Balang Araw” as Arci a.k.a. Gwen cheers by the end of the movie and for me “pinaka TATAK na line”
Balang Araw,…. (Wisdom you can learn from the movie)

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1. Hindi na ako magiging sawi, Makaka move on ako. (Time is a great healer).
2. Makakapag tagpo ako ng tao para sa akin (Dadating din yan mga bes, may RIGHT TIME)
3. I’ll be much STRONGER
4. I’ll not be NAIVE and STUPID
5. I’ll be making the RIGHT decisions – may wisdom na ako.
6. Pagtatatwanan ko ang PAST
7. I will not depend my happiness para sa isang lalaki/ babae (Hindi siya buong mundo mo bes, unless mag-asawa na kayo)
8. Hindi ko ibibigay sarili ko ng buong buo, magtitira ako para sa sarili ko
9. Hindi ako AASA and magiging ASSUMERA
10. I will not make a GUY/ GIRL come between us GIRLFRIENDS / BROS
11. I will not settle for less
12. Magiging MASAYA ako
13. Magkakaroon ako ng FOREVER – one day.

IKAW? Balang Araw…………… (write it down)

WATCH TRAILER HERE https://www.facebook.com/krishgeek

You can check my Movie Review for Camp Sawi http://www.krishgeek.com/?p=2172

Plot:

Print

PARA sa lahat ng nagmahal, umasa, pinaasa, nasawi at hirap mag-move on, hatid ng VIVA Films at N2 Productions ang kakaibang istorya ng limang babaing may iba’t ibang karanasan at kasawian sa pag-ibig sa pinakabago nitong handog, ang “CAMP SAWI,” na mapapanood na sa mga sinehan nationwide simula August 24 (National Sawi Day).

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Ang “CAMP SAWI” ay produksyon ni Bb. Joyce Bernal para VIVA Films at N2, sa panulat at direksyon ni Irene Villamor. Ito ay pinangungunahan ng lima sa pinakamaiinit at pinakainaabangang young actresses ngayon na kinabibilangan nina Andi Eigenmann, Bela Padilla, Yassi Pressman, Kim Molina at Arci Muñoz. Kasama rin sa cast ang Kapamilya hunk na si Sam Milby at Kapuso actor na si Dennis Trillo.

Bilang Bridgette (Bela), Jessica (Yassi), Gwen (Arci), Joan (Kim) at Clarisse (Andi), magtatagpo ang landas ng limang bida sa loob ng isang kampo na nilaan para sa mga taong hirap makapag-move on sa heartbreak.

Bank teller si Bridgette, na hiniwalayan ng long-time Chinese boyfriend. Sampung taon sila naging mag-on, pero mas pinili ng lalaki na makasal sa iba kaya naiwang luhaan at umaasa si Bridgette.

Si Jessica naman, isang young perky cheerleader na hinwalayan ng kanyang varsity na boyfriend.

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Si Gwen, miyembro ng isang banda na kinabibilangan rin ng kanyang boyfriend. Hiniwalayan siya nito dahil ‘di na raw masakyan ng mgaka-grupo nito ang trip niya pati na rin ang sobrang pagka-angas niya.

Si Joan, namatayan ng fiancé matapos itong mag-propose sa kanya.

At panghuli, ang dating actress na si Clarisse, hindi makapag-move on sa pagiging number 2 niya.

Lahat sila, mag-eemote at huhugot ng tapang at lakas mula sa guwapo at batang head coach at resident chef ng Camp Sawi na si Louie (Sam).

“Super fun movie” ang “Camp Sawi” kung i-describe ni Bela.

Kitang-kita naman ang saya nila sa nag-trend na “Limang Bobo” spoof video ng sikat na hugot song ngayon na “Tatlong Bibe.”

Pati ang mga dialogue at payo ng mahadera pero kwelang “Lola,” pinag-uusapan din sa iba’t ibang online sites.

Hirit ni Arci, masaya ang pelikula dahil parang wala pang nagagawang ganitong istorya. Sigurado umano siya na maraming moviegoers ang makaka-relate sa mga pinagdaraanan nila sa movie.

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“At saka ‘yon yung tipo na, kunwari, mapapanood mo siya, parang gusto mo talaga na magkaroon ng Camp Sawi.

“Marami kasi ang nagiging brokenhearted. Minsan hindi talaga nakakapag-move on kasi napakahirap naman talaga mag-move on.”

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Ani Bela, kakaiba ang Camp Sawi dahil naka-focus ito sa mga karanasan ng female characters pagdating sa heartbreak at moving on.

“Feeling ko, first time nating makakakita ng movie na ‘yong chemistry between girls ay hindi kailangang katulad ng pinapanood natin dati — isang girl at isang guy.

“Mas makikita rito ‘yung relationship naman ng mga babae, kung paano sila magtutulungang mag-move on,” dagdag niya.

Super saya raw talaga dahil magkakaibigan naman sila sa totoong buhay kaya dumali ang pagbi-blend ng kanilang mga characters.

 

 

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Kaya, sama na’t maki-emote kina Andi, Bela, Yassi, Kim at Arci para tuluyan nang maka-move on sa pagkasawi dito lang sa “CAMP SAWI”mula sa VIVA Films at N2 Productions, showing na simula sa August 24 (National Sawi Day).

Photos courtesy of Camp Sawi / Viva Films

The Big FAT Book of Self-Love Book Launch

I’ve been writing from a perspective I’ve been through my entire life. I was never the pretty girl, the girl with an obvious girl stache (mustache) and I was the chubby girl as well – till now honestly.

Growing up I’ve been told If I were to lose the extra pounds I would get acknowledge for a lot of things-  If I was thin I would be upfront for a special part in a production number,  bag some awards If I look the part and a boy told me I was perfect but it was my SIZE  that seems to be the problem. – ang sakit noh.

I can deal with not being the pretty girl  because I am more than that! (Sabi ng  nanay ko, pag may brain ka- yayaman ka pwede ka magpaganda tapos ang beauty can never enhance the brain)  and the mustache I had (Thanks to threading and waxing). I’ve been teased by my guy friends “Nagbibinata ka ba?” – atleast they were honest,  then summer of 2009 came when I decided to shaved the mustache plus thread my bushy eyebrows.

Since that I hated the idea, why should beauty be IDEAL? I grew up abroad where women with curves are appreciated  but in a Filipino community, sadly has a standard of beauty which I HATED SO MUCH. I lived a fair amount of time here in the Philippines, I love it but I just hate how people can be judgmental,  how dare they can body-shame other girls (not just the fat girls) and have a set of standards for  beauty- Dapat payat, maputi, flawless, may boobs, may pwet wahhhh! – Kayo na perfect!

My weight has been a YOYO,  (I gain- I lose) so here is my weight loss story,  I lost weight during Grade 5( Thanks to braces) then stated gaining again and during my  2nd-3rd year in college (Thanks to my gym trainers for pushing me, I am grateful to my gym trainers  – 5 years gym member here). Well I admit I really loved the praises and attention, I got boys attention too  but I seem to attract the WRONG ones (At that age, I realized the difference between a BOY and a MAN)

When I stopped working out to focus on my 4th year and board exam that’s when I started to gain because of stress-eating. To be honest, when I was thin I couldn’t focus properly  because the need  to diet and kinda deprived myself a whole lot that time. Now I’m not that active, metabolism starts to slow down. That’s why I try to maintain my gym membership and its better to start young as much as possible basta maging ACTIVE and PRODUCTIVE. I don’t really advice students  to do super crash diets, “kasi nag-aaral pa kayo”– You need brain food and not too much sugar.  Exercise atleast when you have time and eat healthy.

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I’m glad that Danah and Stacy started this advocacy and body love movement. To  be honest women are beautiful no matter what, It matters what you are the INSIDE. FINALLY ! The big FAT book of self love is here 🙂

Discalimer: To those who know me, and I know I promote fitness and health since I am a Nurse and I’ll be honest,  I am currently on a journey to lose atleast 10 pounds, I have my personal reasons  but that didn’t stop me for loving my flawsome body. If you wanna eat, EAT and If you want to lose weight, DO IT but RIGHT, Exercise and a healthy balanced meal. I know a lot of girls way back before who don’t eat and skipped meals, well HELLO ULCER!. Do what makes you HAPPY, Just love your body and give it the love it deserves. I admit even though I shed some weight off, I am still a big bone girl- and that’s okay.

Like the twins said in the book, “Our bodies are not just ornaments to prettify, but instruments to use so we can boldly live life and achieve dreams that are bigger than coveting a 24-inch waistline or weighing less than a hundred pounds”.

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It doesn’t mean when you’re FAT, automatically unhealthy, there are other people with normal weight can have high cholesterol levels and others due to their genetic makeup and lifestyle. Look at Ashley Graham (Designer/Model) she works out to be healthy and to accentuate her curves.

Upon reading this book, I just can’t put it down( YES I HAD MY YELLOW SHARPIE READY FOR HIGHLIGHTING ) because how relatable it is and how inspiring for us BIG girls that at the end of the day we must love ourselves and we are definitely BEAUTIFUL.

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Stacey’s Open Letter to the Plump Pinays was the first one I read -I seriously needed that boost. Plus Danah’s letter to the Moms and Dads out there was a tear jerker for me. Another fave chapter of mine is Danah’s #DiKaCheapTeh memes. I really like this reminder, “How you treat yourself sets the standards of how others will treat you….. The only validation you need in order to be happy comes from you” –Stacy.

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The Big FAT Book of Self Love is the brainchild of Danah and Stacey Gutierrez of Plump.ph, I’ve seen the two before at an event of DIVA, they were explaining at the event the purpose of their advocacy and I was like “Hindi sila mataba” and till  then I find them gorgeous and inspiring women I look up to. It’s nice to have a support system that understand  girls like me. When I got an invite for the book launch at Raffles Makati, I was  so ecstatic and happy for them. Finally a book promoting “body love” here in the Philippines.

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Do I recommend this book, OFCOURSE! I have friends asking me since they saw my post about the book. The book will be available at any National Bookstores and for the Provincial areas along September.Just head over Plump.ph social media pages for updates. I heard the books are selling like pancakes, Congrats twins and ABS-CBN Publishing! For a price of P245 in colored glossy pages and text-heavy love & wisdom for the Plump Pinays and women of all sorts of shapes and sizes. (There is a chapter dedicated about real life flawsome pinays)

The book offers chapters from advises on what to wear base on your body type and how to do make-up according to the shape of your face. How the twins embraced acceptance and their personal backstories that we could learn from. There is this chapter where Stacey put up a poster around her previous workplace about the FAT STIGMA and the twins shared their experiences with cyber bullies and how they dealt with the people’s usual side comments.

I hope this book would serve as a reminder and hopefully an instrument in order the Filipino community can learn to accept different body norms, BE OPEN –MINDED and having beauty standards is just superficial and shallow. Parents should be the role models of teaching their kids that they are great in their own way and not to judge others because on how they look. We are a country of mostly Catholic and Christians, God says that all of his creations are BEAUTIFUL.

GIRLS, for me I’ve surrounded myself with good people who know my worth and be better. Can’t handle anymore toxicity and negativity then when I hear something not praise worthy, LABAS SA KABILANG TENGA-Confidence lang yan beh , learn to defend yourself and be the better mature person. It’s your BODY and it’s your CHOICE. And remember we are all BEAUTIFUL and complement others too, to remind them that they are also beautiful 🙂

Change The Way You See Friendship

I have always been Ms. Friendship, I can’t explain it on how I became one but that is what my friends describe me.  I like the gush of meeting new people, getting to know them and talking to them. When I was younger, naive and full of idealism that I wanted to have lots of friends and be popular. Well growing up, I came from a family that was low key then I envy the popular kids and their families who join and attend events- Because I was a nobody.

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I decided to break that shell when I hit grade school  I tried joining lot of clubs and whenever you join extra curricular activities it boost up your grade, from my usual ranking in the honor roll I was able to score a higher ranking. I even tried running for Student council when I was in 3rd year highschool as vice president, the following year as president. The answer is YES, I won consecutively. When I entered college, I got tired and decided to focus on things that matter and stay “low key” because college was another ball game.

Looking back, I realized what such a try hard I was despite lots of achievements and accomplishments – It tested lots of friendships too. Now that I am 23, I realize that it doesn’t matter how many LIKES you get, the important thing is what the people who are involve in your life matters and what they think of you. You get to appreciate having a small circle of friends and that sometimes there are just some people in your life you have to let go and can’t avoid that is the adulting way that we call MUTUAL RESPECT.

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As you get older your perspective about friendship changes, there are those who are for lifetime and seasonal a.k.a temporary. There will be people you meet along the way who would use you – I’ve been there. They act all nice in front of you and later on they stab you at the back. What I learn is that don’t give yourself too much, they will use it against you. You have to test the waters first (get to know them) and when your gut says there is something wrong – LISTEN and then try to AVOID. Wish I had wisdom back then yet I was too gullible.

Now that I am older I just laugh about the past. I forgave, YES but I never forget – to be honest there is that pinch trauma but as years gone by it starts to fade away. Trust is like a glass, once you break it there is no going back to fixing it. You can give  a second chance but it depends on how much they hurt you and will you be better without them- Think about it. Sometimes when you love and care for someone you allow room for mistakes – This rule applies to people that proved their worth.

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When you were young everything seems innocent and forgiving. Once you hit puberty,  peer pressure gets involve, everything changes. I have friends who I met since kindergarten some still strong  as ever and others drifted apart. There are THE OTHERS, that my friend termed as “DIPLOMATIC FRIENDSHIP” this is the common “Hi and Hello”.

With the people you have in your life there are those that have to grow out of your circle like they have to go abroad and now the trend is they are starting to have their own family – their priorities changes. When your friends start having lovelife, they only remember you when its not date night and  others focus too much on their careers that sometimes they don’t have time anymore. The truth, is it is a normal  CHANGE that you have to go through. Then it is a test of friendship as well. You’ll miss what you had before like you go on random night outs, travels and adventures when everybody was available. Your job is BE A FRIEND,  be there for them when they are in need and understand, people have their own lives.

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I let my friends do their own thing and when I see them being stupid I confront them especially when they are “INLABABO” a term for being love sick. I only tell them once what I feel and what fishy scoop I get from their significant other  because they will NEVER LISTEN – “In Love eh., Love is blind … and deaf”. I told myself there will come a day, I will say “I TOLD YOU” in their faces but the thing is as a friend you have to support them and what is important is your friend’s happiness – they will learn.

TIP: Don’t ever ever forget and ditch your friends! Be updated with what is happening in their lives (there is what we call social media), message them time to time and catch up when you can. When your relationship fails, your friends are the ones who got your back. Whatever the damage, you’re still gonna root for your friend #loyalty. For me I also learn my lesson, when my friends introduce his or her significant other I only be close with their significant other if I see their relationship is potential for long-term and marriage.

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Good friendships last a lifetime and I am glad to have friends that still stick through my side till now. We give each other adult advices and you’ll notice that your usual topics back then compared to now changes. We talk about careers, finances and settling down (the serious one).

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What my friends love about me is the PATIENCE that I have with people. Despite the craziness I’ve been through with my friends all these years – I LOVE THEM. We all grown and put all the immature stuff behind us. We make each other better and be there when one needs help and despite the imperfections our friends have, we know we can always count on them. The heartbreaks, craziness and the people that come, go and stay change the way I see about friendship – the mature one. (You guys know who you are <3 )

You make time for your friends. Those moments that you spend with your friends now are special. Ever since elementary, high school, college till now my friends know how much I love taking pictures, every flatlay and groupie I would upload it right away plus they know I take good pictures (perks of having a blogger friend) – Instagram worthy ones with the Huawei P9 can change the way you see mobile photography with Huawei P9’s camera is co-engineered with Leica. It has dual lenses that produces high quality photos and allow users to take amazing monochromes, slo-mo, colored, light painting photos among others. For that obligatory groupie and snap-worthy friendship photo! Making memories while travelling, food trips and ticking off the squad goal bucket list with HuaweiP9 🙂

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Third Culture Kid: 23 and I am still Lost.

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People may see me as the girl who has my life figured out but seriously I suck at “Adulting” -It ain’t easy since you came from a solid & tight Filipino family where the pressure is on you- Especially “Panganays” /First Born.

All my life I never knew what I wanted, been always fascinated to do this and that. Try out new things and sometimes give up on them because the fact that there are people who can be better than you or maybe it doesn’t seem any fun as times go by. Life is survival of the fittest and a competition- That’s why maybe I don’t feel good and confident all the time.

Growing up I used to be Ms. Goody two shoes, the obedient daughter,the one snagging honors, rewards and join every extra curricular activity like in student government and all the clubs, name it. That was my “try-hard” phase back when my turf was at a local Filipino community school back in the middle east – Yes, I am a Third Culture Kid. But I am very much Filipino, the thing with the kind of life we OFW kids have is that we are too sheltered. That’s why maybe when I was in the Philippines, “Kaunting hirap lang, bigay na”/ Just a little hardship, we give up easily”. – kinda TRUE to some.

When I graduated High school, I never knew what course I wanted- I just listened to my mom and dad. “You be a NARS, anak” like every Filipino parent encourages their kid to take. I wanted to take fashion design or media but my dad says only gays are the ones who are lucky in that field.

Being a nurse abroad would mean a better and secured life. I realized I wasn’t good at it, tempted to shift many times but still landed being a NURSE. I was on my third year and I was like just a little more sacrifice since I’ll be done in a year, maybe it was my destiny to be a registered nurse- all the tears and sacrifices were worth it. Then I realized that in Nursing you can be in different careers and when you decide to be settle down, you can always go back then you can provide the life you want for your future kids, the kind of life my parents gave me. Mostly I’ve encountered nursing graduates who shifted careers but came back to nursing.

Well I enjoyed my college days on the side I would join my bestfriend on her blogging events that is how I got dragged into the blogging world. After passing the boards when I volunteered as a clinic nurse and trained for a hospital facility, after a tiring day, I still have the energy to blog and attend events. Blogging just came to my life unexpectedly- I was already outgoing ever since but this shaped me to be a better person with more wisdom, better writer and more confidence.

I thought crawling out of nursing was the hardest- next thing is to get a JOB. Well I’ve always had a dream of being this next multimedia star but it seems the world wasn’t on my shoulders. It’s okay to dream big and chase for your dreams because it’s FREE but sometimes it is not for everyone- maybe God has better plans.

I did auditions and became part of a talent agency for extras but was too chicken to ask for help, tell people about my dream and audition for the big leagues maybe because I wasn’t confident- because I was chubby and not that pretty. Been a frustration ever since (being chubby and not one of the pretty girls- but it’s OKAY.) I really like public speaking, never ever can explain that phenomenon, public speaking not like oration and declamation kind of stuff.

For the longest time I was a graduate I leaned over the nursing side because that is the only credentials I had and I was to chicken to tell people what I wanted. Then I realized lots of things, In life you don’t always get what you want – it’s either you work really really hard or that thing is meant for you. It’s all about GROWING UP. Another, despite of the many things I want to do in my life only choose ONE.

Now I am sitting on my bed writing this waiting for an opportunity for me to stay here and be stable her in the Philippines (Admit it, it is more fun in the Philippines- if you have money.) I have an ultimatum, If nothing happens I will be flying to another country to study and apply to be a citizen there – for my family’s future because my mom and dad are not getting any younger and they are pressuring me to get out of the Philippines for the past few days.

I’ve applied to different industries and still on the verge of waiting because if you don’t do something, nothing will happen. I just don’t know what direction my life will be heading, If only I can turn back time, At 16 I was still young and I had no idea what to do. Now I tell myself not to regret the past and move forward there are still chances while being young. It’s not the end of the world.

Ending this piece. I told myself and to the other millennials reading this, IT IS OKAY to be lost in certain phase of your life you’ll figure things out, enjoy but don’t waste time. At the end of the day, It’s on you and don’t forget to PRAY. Be Smart too because with every decision you make it will benefit your FUTURE.