Holy Friday's Reflection: The Salvation of God Through Jesus

“The Luckiest Tree”

There was once a tall tree planted in a high mountain. One day, a group of loggers went to the mountain to cut trees around it for future use. They cut all the trees they can see and their attention focused on the tallest one. The tall tree prayed to God and said, “Oh Lord, if you will allow these loggers to cut me, make me your instrument for your future purpose.” And the loggers began to cut the tall tree. The loggers divided the wood into two equal parts. One was sent in a farm and the other half was kept. An old farmer bought the wood and used it as a food container for the animals. The wood asked God, “Lord, you cut me and made me a food container for these animals; I know that you have better plans for me Lord, I trust you.” One night, a man and a woman went in the farm and looked for a shelter to stay. The farmer doesn’t have any space in his house but he referred the couple in his animal house. That night, the woman gave birth to his son, and she placed her little baby to food container. The wood said, “God, thank you for giving me the chance to cuddle you begotten son.” Many years passed, the other half of the wood is used. A group of soldiers is looking for a wood to make a cross.  They found a wood kept in a warehouse. They get it and made a cross. The wood said, “My Lord, I was kept for a very long time, make me the best purpose I can be.” The soldiers take off the cross to the warehouse and give to a man named Jesus. They torture him and let him carry the cross. And before the day ends, they nailed the man in the cross. The wood said, “Oh God, I thank you for giving me the chance hold your wounded son.”

The story tells us that the tree faithfully devoted its life to God. It prayed to him to use him for his propose. He let the Lord drive his own life. And that made him the luckiest tree in the world. If the tree can be faithful to God, how much more we can be. If we will just let God use us for his own purpose we can be also – or much more be blessed. Every one of us has a mission to make. Our mission is to bring each other closer to God. He formed us in His own image so we can know Him personally and have a joy-filled life. He did not make us as tree, but gave us a will and a freedom of choice. The Bible says, “The result of unforgiven sin is death. But God's gift is eternal life given by Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). There is only one way to reach God. Jesus Christ is the only answer to this problem. He is the only One who can bring us back to God. He offered his life on the Cross and rose from the grave, paying the penalty for our sin and bridging the gap between God and people. (1 Peter 3:18).

We have differences with each other; language, culture, behavior and attitude but God wanted us to unite as we get close to him. We have our own sufferings, trials and pains but these are essential for us to grow in any area of your life. Our book has been written and on the last chapter, we have happy-ending.  We may be going through rough times now. Perhaps there’s a mountains of trials in your life today – bills, school, works, health, family, friends but whatever it is believe that you can have that happy future. We must trust Jesus Christ at all times to forgive our sins and settle on to obey Him for the rest of our lives. That way we can know God and find his salvation. (Romans 10:9-10).

Holy Thursday's Reflection : God’s Mercy

To the parents, how much do you love your children?

To the children, how much do you love your parents?

Parents love their child so much that is why they are very hardworking just to give their child a brighter future. They work so hard day and night to give the needs of their child. They send them to the best schools and give them the best education they can have. They even sacrifice their own happiness to fulfill their duties and obligations to their child. They would even trade their lives just to meet the needs of their child.

I remember my father and mother worked so hard to gives quality education. My father worked as a marble contractor. He used to earn more than enough for our family. Our family that time was well off that we could afford a luxurious life. But things fell down easily. My father had a tuberculosis and been in and out of the hospital. The doctors had to remove the water out of his lungs. During those times, we were too young to work for our family, so my mother step on. She worked for our family even harder this time. She sells variety of food at the street from morning to afternoon. I worked along with her selling foods in the street in the morning and I go to school in the afternoon. It is hard for us but we have to do endure it. We helped each other to build our family back again. We get strengths from each other and support each other’s battle. Today, everything was change, Mama is gone, and Papa is 650 kilometers away from me and its my time to be the flag bearer of our family. But with God’s grace I can pass all the challenges I may have meet along the way and fulfill God’s plan for me and my family.

Just like any other parents in the world, God is very loving. He showed his unconditional love for us by sending his begotten son to wash away our sins – John 3:16. Jesus died in the cross to redeem us from our sins and lead us to God. God loves the wicked and sinners. The bible said that he loves bad people “We somehow know this already, but it still jars our sense of “justice”” Luke 6:35-36. God gives his mercy to those who do not deserve His kindness at all. In another part of the Bible, it says, “When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy” Titus 3:4-6. Even the bible said that Jesus eats with the sinners; Mary Magdalene, Levi - Tax Collector, a sinful woman etc. God’s mercy is undeserved kindness. Jesus said “I don’t condemn you—now go and sin no more.”

As Brother Bo Sanchez said to his article, forgiveness isn’t the result of Repentance. Rather, repentance is a result of forgiveness. Repentance comes when God’s kindness invades our soul. Change of heart is a spontaneous result of being loved! Let God’s mercy overflowed to our life and we’ll share to the rest our the world.

Holy Wednesday Reflection: Defeating Temptation

Since Monday this week, I am doing my prayer and fasting. I am only eating one meal a day and praying every 12 midnight. I am on my third day of fasting, and I will be honest to say that there are times I am tempted to eat a lot. Buy chocolate and ice cream and pig out tempt me. I am tempted to go to the mall instead of staying at home. I am tempted to play Plants vs. Zombies the whole day, forgetting my other priorities. My thoughts are easily tempted.

In real life, temptations are everywhere. It may be hiding inside your room, sitting on your sofa, fast moving in the highway, or waiting in the road – even the internet is overflowing with temptations. Everyday we shocked by small and big temptations – Lies, Sex, Desire, Wants, Food, Drinks, Drugs, Alcohol, Vices. Temptations come in different colors and variations.

Sex, Lies, Drugs, Desire, Wants, Food, Alcohol, Vices

Sex maybe wonderful and feels good, but anything that feels good has the potential to lead us into trouble. Examples: Lies – How many relationships have been broke by these words. Drugs – How many families have been ruin by this illegal chemical. Desire and Wants – How many dreams have been destroy by this thoughts. Food and Alcohol – How many mothers and fathers and children were lost because of this materialism. Vices – How many homes were burn by this illusive comfort? The moment you tried these things, part of our brain wants it repeatedly.

Sexual relationship with wrong partner may direct us into trouble. People end up destroying their marriage, friendship, job and being gone to jail and worst – killed. The Bible said: “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 Yes, you read it right. Temptation will lead us the way to escape from it. Every temptation is an opportunity to do good. Opportunity to be with God’s glory. It provides us the choice we have to make. Temptation is an evil deed to destroy us, but God used it to develop us.  Each time that we choose to be good instead of living with the sin, our character is maturing and our spirits grows. Like a plant being watered and fertilized.

We can defeat temptation by living the characters of Jesus Christ:

1. Love – How can I love if the world hates me? We should always remember that the world is representation of God. And if we love our God, we can love the world even if it is against us. God will reward our unconditional love for him. And remember: Jesus died to show us the true meaning of love to us.

2. Joy – The real meaning of joy is when we feel it in the midst of sorrow. Whatever trials may endure us, we must turn to him at all times. Joy is different from Happiness. Happiness could depends on external circumstances, but joy is based on our relationship to God.

Take this for example. When my mom died last Christmas I was really so miserable. It felt like my future plans and dreams were demolished. But in the middle of my sorrow, I felt that my heart was filled with so much joy. As I look at my mom lying on her bed, covered with white cloth, I found an inner peace within. I know Mama will be in heaven, and hug tight by our creator. I know that she will be in a place where no one will harm her no more, no pain and suffering can weakens her anymore. God will protect and comforts her because Mama lived a good life here on Earth.

3. Peace – Being at peace in the middle of chaos and confusion is the real essence of peace. It is being focus and determined even when things don’t go the way we planned. To be in ultimate peace is being with God. Trusting him in all circumstances of our lives in which we are feared or afraid.

The next time will be tempted, I would pray. I will focus my attention to something else. Temptation starts in our mind. Instead of resisting the thought, I will refocus on it. I will not fight it, I would just change the thought I am thinking. The Bible said; “God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who loves him.” James 1:12. God will reward those who obey him. And by defeating our temptation, evil become less powerful.

I will ask you do the same thing I am doing. Get your calendar and pen. Every time you defeat your little temptations, mark a red star on your calendar.  And at the end of the week, take a look and see how you’re doing.

Holy Tuesday Reflection - The Essentials of Miracle

Waking up everyday is a wonderful thing isn’t it.

Being in the school or office, stuck in the traffic, nagged by your professor, or loaded by tons of paper works. Those are few of life’s everyday challenges. We may just take these for granted but these are God’s little miracles to us. Waking up in the morning is a simple miracle. How many mornings I have woke up and see the world passed by. How many days I have spent without thinking what would happen tomorrow. I tend to neglect things and people around me, and focus on myself alone.

Today, you will hear news about a fountain or falls that heals diseases and other sickness. You will see hundreds of crying and moving statues. You will meet hundreds of people claiming to witness or see divine apparitions and lastly, there are hundreds of people today claiming that they are God.

Take this for example; a well in Manoag, Pangasinan is known for its miraculous healing ability. As a believer, I will go to Manoag and drink the water to be healed. What do you think happen? Did the water really healed me or its my faith to God. Yes, It’s my faith to god that heals me. He used the water as his instrument to reach out believers. Nevertheless, we should not claim that the water alone could heal.

When we have problems and burdens, we call to God to help us solve it. We complain that we don’t have things we wanted, skills we wanted, and attention we wanted to have. And I guess, that is why we don’t have the blessings we needed to have because we tend to rely to God all the time. In school, you pray to God the he will let you pass the exam and will be the highest in your class. Instead of reviewing your exam, you played computer games the night before. Always remember: God won’t do for you what you can do for yourself. If He did, you won’t grow. We have to start in little things. And as God sees you faithful in small things, God will give you bigger things.

As Brother Bo said to his article, If God wants you to do something, He’ll make the right people walk into your life. He’ll send the necessary raw materials and arrange everything we needed. And that is the true miracle.

I know right now, you are facing a great struggle like me and like everyone else in the world. Perhaps, you are worried of you debts and other financial stability. Or maybe, you are in sour relationship with your partner or children. Or the pain of rejection, loss, suffering, and despair is hurting you right now. Like me, you have a burden; we all have our burdens but do not let them rein your soul. In our life, there are more blessing than burden. We all have valley of tears. But I don’t believe God wants you to walk through the valley of tears. Don’t build your house in that valley. Don’t stay there forever. Instead, walk through that burden and claim up to your victory. Claim the miracle that God had prepared for you. You only have to pray to him and asked his guidance and forgiveness. I assure you, you will receive the miracle right next to your door steps.

Vague Church

I felt sad when I saw the news involving Catholic leaders lambasted President Aquino and Representative Hontiveros in regards with the RH Bills issue. As catholic leaders, they must have been the epitome of Christian characters and values. The bible said that we should not judge and hurt others, by deed or by words. Archbishop Emeritus Oscar Cruz hits President Aquino for being vocal in his support with RH Bill. Baguio parishioners walked out of the church after the priest criticized Rep. Risa Hontiveros in his homily. I think these religious leaders became too much emotional concerning the said argument. We are living in a democratic country and everyone is free to raise an opinion and stand for what we like to believe. I remember how church leaders were disrespectful and cruel during the Spanish era – this is based on what I have learned about history. If the president stands for a certain idea, that doesn’t mean that the whole country will have the same stand. However, it may affect numbers of people but not the majority.

We are now living in a technological era were majority of people are literate. Many people can read, write and understand. We should not neglect the people’s understanding and decision about the said issue. Remember, RH Bill is not just lawmaker’s decision; Filipino has also the right to approve or disapprove it. And, with the divine intervention it may or may not pushed through. So please, do not strike and hit people or personality during the homily. Instead, offer an alternative except over-population. Let the people decide.

Holy Monday Reflection: Humility

Today, God thought me the essentials of humility. I have material things I needed; shelter, food, clothes, shoes, watches, book etc., but sometimes I complain having less. I don’t have ipod, I don’t have the height, my skin is not fair enough, etc. But when I open my eyes, even kings and queen of other nation doesn’t have a perfect life. I opened my eyes and I saw a homeless child lying on the street floor and begging for alms. I looked at the other side, I saw a man without the left arms and on that point, I knew how lucky I was to have complete body parts.

God taught me today that humility is an act of being empty. Remember the keywords: Humility is being empty. Humility is being desperate that our good God will fill you up. I life, we have so many problems we face everyday. Some are simple problems that we can easily overcome. But sometimes life throws us a problems we don’t know how to solve. Then, that the time we have to pray to the Lord and ask him to solve our problems. When we have problems that we cannot solve, we become empty, and being empty is okay. That leads us to our Lord’s guidance.

Like my favorite author, Bo Sanchez said: “The day a successful person stops being humble is the day he prepares for his downfall.” What does I meant? For me, it means that the more we become successful we are, the more we should be humble to everyone else. Life is everyday learning experience. God arranged people in our life to inspire, challenge, train, teach us in every aspect that we have to learn to prepare us to be worthy of his glory. Jesus said: ‘For through the grace given to me I say to every man among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.’ Romans 12:3

Humility is not just being empty but being empty at all. Like Jesus who undress himself and went down to the world and live like an ordinary man. He was crucified and died for us to redeem the world from sin. This Holy Week, let us start to be humble and reflect to our mistakes and ask for God’s forgiveness.

Palm Sunday : HOPE

Hope is when we trust our future into God’s hands, even when things are less ideal in the present.

Have you ever seen the sunrise in the morning?

Seeing the light shining in the horizon is such an amusing scene to watch to. Sunrise is the simplest expression of hope. There could have been darkness in our lives, but rest assured that the sun will comes out tomorrow.

The bible says, ‘be joyful because you have hope, be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times. – Romans 12:12. We are God’s special child. He is preparing us to be the best of who we are. In the bible, Paul met Jesus Christ in a blinding light, and that appearance has changed his life. He used to be a persecutor, an arrogant braggart and self-sufficient man. But when he found Jesus in his life, he turned to be an encourager, a humble preacher and reluctant to God. Instead of keeping his eyes from the past, he looked at the future with an incredible sense of hope (Philippians 3:13-14).

We don’t need to be in the blinding light, Paul taught us some reasons that we can live with hope even in the midst of adversity:

1. God Forgives Us – When we are at peace with our creator, the future is always bright. ‘Since we have been made right with God by our faith, we have peace with God.’ (Romans 5:1)

2. God Favors Us – We don’t have to crawl and beg to God to help us with our endeavors. He loved you even when you rebelled against him. ‘But shows his great love for us in this way; Christ died for us while we were still sinners. (Romans 5:8)

3. God Turns Suffering into Hope – With God at work in our lives the very trials that could crush our spirits actually makes our hope even stronger. ‘We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. (Romans 5:3-4)

4. God Helps Us When We Are Weak – One of the reasons we feel hopeless is that we just don’t believe we have what it takes to overcome challenges. Not to worry says God; Ill do for you what you cant do for yourself. ‘When we were unable to help ourselves, at the moment of our need, Christ died for us although we were living against God. (Romans 5:6)

So whenever we feel unhappy and lonely, have the hope that you can overcome your situation. Hope is some extraordinary spiritual grace that was given to us to control our fears. Today is Palm Sunday, we are approaching the most important week of the year. Holy week is an annual tradition to us Christian nation. This is the perfect time for us to reflect and reclaim our faith to our God and analyze our self. Mahal na Araw, were not meant literally that the price cost rose, but it means that God saves us at a very costly price. He sent is only son to suffer and be crucified in order to redeem us.

Money Money Money !!!

This afternoon I was singing along with Jessie J’s Price Tag, and chorus has the lyrics that goes: ‘Its not about the money, money, money.. We don't need your money, money, money We just wanna make the world dance, Forget about the Price Tag.’ And it made me think that indeed, the world today is all about MONEY. The humans today are obsessed over money, wants, things etc. When we are obsessed over these things, we encounter problems. Worst is, we became distracted from God; we starts to hate others because of greed and envy and we became unhappy and ungrateful of what we have and instead, we focus on what we do not have.

How many homes were broken because of money?

How many relationships were wrecked because of greed?

How many lives were lost because of envy?

 

God think about what we do with our money. Jesus told us that we should not put money and other things in the highest priority in our lives. He taught us to give a portion of our income to him. A British evangelist and social reformer John Wesley once uttered: “Make all you can, Save all you can, Give all you can”. As we work hard for our future, God wanted us to share a part of our hardships to everyone. Not only to those who need it but to everyone. As we seek to honor the Lord by asking for his counsel and guidance in terms of money and work, He will meet our needs.

Let me tell you story, a friend of mine rushed his father in the hospital due to some attacks of high blood pressure. My friend used to work in a community social welfare and a call center representative at the same time. At the time he rushed his father in t he hospital, he does not have a single cent in his pocket. Upon knowing the incident, his family and friends came in to pay sympathy. His worry is, how will he going to provide the medication of her father? He is very worried of his father’s health, so as the waits for the doctor he asked God to give him all he needs – including courage for himself for him to survive this trial in his life. The next day, the doctor told my friend that they can be discharge soon. His father had some unserious attack, and he may be able to rest at home. He was shocked to found out that his friends and some relatives contribute and gathered money for him and his father.

The lesson we need to remember is God has been so generous to his children. And in return, we should learn to give back to him. Not just to the beggars on the street, to the homeless people but also to those strangers who needs us. Why not offer a single day to work in our community and let us help. Let me leave you by this scripture from the book of Matthew 6:33: “The thing you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what God wants. Then all these other things you need will be given to you.”

Life’s Greatest Lesson: ‘Have Faith to God’

Whether times are tough or easy, firm belief in a good and loving God is the only road to vibrant living.

There are times that we do not understand the things happen to our life today. Life challenges, peer pressure, workloads, and many more easily break our physical stability. But how about our “spiritual stability”? How much do we trust God? How do we find God in times of crisis and darkness?

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust the Lord with all our heart, and don’t depend on you own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do, and he will give you success.” In this scripture, God wanted us to trust him at all times. How? Remember the story of Job in the bible; he is the man who lost everything in his life; fame, fortune, health and even his family turn back to him. But he still managed to stand up to his faith and trust the Lord that he can survive each trials came his way for the God is with him.

The keyword is TRUST: trust the Lord with all our heart. God designs each and every person in the world to be his wonderful child. He allows us to face obstacles to be the best that we can be. A similar scene entered my mind. Take this picture as an example; a 5 days old bird was left in the top of the tree. His father was just around looking for food to eat. His father taught him how to use his wings and fly freely in the air. The little bird was eager to try it on his own but the father advised him to be prepare for the perfect time that he can do it all by himself. One day, the father bird was not around and a group of bad people went to the forest and cut the tallest tree they can see. Sadly, their tree was one of the chosen to rip off. The bird cried and scared. He remembers the advice told by his father. He spread his wings and step out of the nest. He slowly heading off the ground, as he tried harder he flew high above the clouds. Seeing the world so high and reaching the horizons.

 My mother died on the Christmas Day of 2010. She was diagnosed with terminal stage of Breast Cancer and she has a metastasis on her left lung. My life flooded with obstacles and downhill side. But I stay in the light of God.  Three weeks before my mama died, I immediately flew from Manila to Bohol just to be with her. The doctors assured me that my mama will live longer but not for a very long period. I prayed to God that whatever his will will be done. I entrusted him my mama’s health and life, my papa’s life and mine. I painted my future asking God to be my canvass. I took care of my mom, loved her with all my heart. It hurts to see her silently weep and feel the pain. We pray. We always pray together that whatever the physical pain we feel right now will be reimbursed in the kingdom of God. On the day of Christmas, my mama passed away. It hurts me so badly. Knowing I am in a strange place with no one, I trust. I shared my strength to my papa for I know he needed it more than I did. At the moment of grief, I felt that a small spot in my heart are rejoicing. Rejoicing for I know, my mama is celebrating the coming of Jesus Christ in heaven.

I trusted God that he will provide all my needs. I trust him my future and surrender all my grieves and mourns. He never fails to brighten up my mornings and filled my nights with stars. And at the moment of darkness, he lay his hands to mine and guide me to his path. I want you to do the same thing. This is the perfect time for you to trust God. Not tomorrow, NOW!

HAY NAKU ! (Mc Donalds' BFGF Commercial Pulled Out)

I felt sad when I heard the news that the Mc Donald's commercial ad was pulled out upon the request of the Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). The TVC showed a little girl asking a little boy if they are already boyfriend/girlfriend yet the kid hesitated of the reason that girls are so demanding. However, the girl says she only wanted a french fries, on the video playing as an object of focused, the McDo store can visibly seen. 


For the sake of those who wasnt seen the video yet watch it here: http://youtu.be/p-Njqzj8b-o

On my opinion, I havent seen anything wrong with the commercial. The theme of the ad was based on the real life situation of kids talking things in their lives. In reality, worst thing can happen or be happening. Similar themes has been also used by the advertisers before. India also has the similar 'BFGF' TV ad for the same establishment. Most of the commercials here in the Philippines uses children for they has the biggest impact to the viewers. And I am certainly sure that there were no exploitation happens or been happening to these kind of commercials. 


Fr. Melvin Castro, Executive Secretary of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Family and Life said his interview in a newspaper that the commercial was 'very swallow' and 'cheapens human relationships'. I respect the opinion of the council of bishops in the Philippines, however, they must have been open minded regarding some things that might be spreading in the country. The video, for my opinion doesnt violated any catholic rules or standards. I do not understand the point of  the reason of the CBCP imposing that the commercial is shallow and cheap. Thinking on the boarder aspects, there are things we wanted to have and wanted to do, but there are things that we wanted most. There are more issues that we should have been talking and waiting the council to intervene. Bullying, Gradual Increase of Tuition Fees, Pollution, High Rate of Teenage Suicide or the numerous Billboards posted in the metro showing off sexy men and women. 

I dont want to think that it has something to do with the Willie-Jan Jan' controversy. I never heard them talk about it. The council must have been fixing issues inside their premises, and have a thorough study on subjects or objects before they will intervene. Lady GaGa's blasphemous videos, underrated violent music videos and movies, high percentage of piracy that gives youth easy access to Pornography, Poverty, ETC. These are some of the issues we need to hear from them. As a catholic leaders, they must have been careful criticizing objects and issues. Let us open our mind and our eyes, be vigilant and be intelligent. 

Remake Runs the Primetime ABSCBN Programming

The ABSCBN primetime programming today is flooded by remakes from local and international drama series. In some research data analysis, they assured that ABSCBN primetime programming rules the rating system. Most of the viewers are indeed attached to their shows. Other local station may perform well in ratings game, but most of ABSCBN shows consistently positioned at the top slot.

Talking about the remake, let us talk about the drama series recreated for the present viewers. These are the dramas much likely previously aired for years now and presented for the current Filipino audiences. 

Synopsis:

Mara and Clara were switched at birth in the nursery, and the details of this event were recorded by Karlo, a hospital staffer and Clara's real uncle, in his diary; only Karlo and Gary know the truth. Mara lived as the poor daughter of the couple Susan and Gary David. Clara, the David's real daughter, was brought up by the rich couple, Amante and Alvira del Valle. Mara grew up to be a simple, intelligent, kind, pretty and good-natured girl despite being brought up by a poor family. Clara who was brought up by a rich family grew up to be a spoiled brat, mean but intelligent, and a girl who will do anything to be number one. Mara and Clara's fight started when Clara thought Mara was taking her spotlight but they eventually became friends. Their problems in life tried their friendship and it broke. Clara became angrier when she and Mara were unwillingly switched to their real families. A strategy tried Mara and Clara and their people around them, That Mara died but it's not true. And it was Lenita. And then, Mara and Susan tried to go away with them. While Gary keeps doing evil plans and Clara lives in the del Valle's. Will Clara stay in the del Valle's? Will Mara have a good life with Susan forever? Will they will ever met again? Will Mara and Clara become true friends again?

Mara Clara is a 90’s popular drama hit in the television starring Judy Ann Santos and Gladys Reyes. However, with 2010 version it has starred the newest drama gems of ABCBN; Kathryn Bernardo and Julia Montes. The show's highest ratings were 39.7% and the lowest is 25.9% based on TNS ratings. Moreover, up to now, it is one of the station’s top rater in primetime slot. In addition, as a price of being popular, these lead teen stars are now enjoying various applauds from different critics and viewers. 

Plot:

Jerome (Jericho Rosales) starts working in his dream company as cargo shipper for SR Corporation and here he met a second encounter with Angela (Anne Curtis). The two fell in love while spending a night in the woods after the vehicle broke down for a shipping assignment. Upon knowing of the relationship, the president of the corporation and father of Angela, wants to end their love. Given the circumstances, Jerome is framed for the attempted murder of his girlfriend's father, flees and returns a different person longing to unravel the truth and exact revenge.

Green Rose is a remake of the 2005 Korean drama; Green Rose produced by SBS and was distributed in the Philippines by ABS-CBN. The remake stars Jericho Rosales as Jerome Delgado, Anne Curtis as Angela Tuazon, Jake Cuenca as Edward Fuentebuella and Alessandra de Rossi as Geena Rallos. The reunion series of Echo and Anne get me hocked to the TV screen and adding up the gorgeous naturally built body of Jake and charming Alexandra is just so perfect. I am so addicted to this show now. 

Story:

Via (Claudine Barretto), the only daughter of Don Fernando (Juan Rodrigo), was raised as his darling princess. On her eighteenth birthday, she found out that her father has promised her hand in marriage to her childhood friend, Michael (Diether Ocampo), and before the birthday party was over, she was kidnapped. She was rescued by a good Samaritan named Gabriel (Rico Yan), whom she fell in love with. Michael, at the latter part of the story, became romantically involved with Via's best friend, Trina (Rica Peralejo). As the story unfolds, Via ended up having to decide between the two men in her life, while learning more about her mother Magda (Jaclyn Jose) and fighting off her evil aunt Selina (Princess Punzalan).

In the story, Selina was one of the most influential characters, due to her desire to acquire the power and wealth of Don Fernando (Juan Rodrigo), her brother. She possesses intelligence in illegal tactics that made her stronger and she used people in order to manipulate them when a bombing in the departure of Via and her family to start a new life began. Via lived a new identity but came back to her family, and they all faced Selina one last time in dignity and Via restored peace in her family.

Mula Sa Puso is a Philippine remake of the original 1997 TV series that starred Claudine Barretto and the late Rico Yan airing on ABS-CBN. Two years after the series had its finale in 1999, it was adapted into a film where the whole cast reprised their roles. On March 2011, ABS-CBN announced that they had decided to remake the television series after the success of Mara Clara. The remake will star Lauren Young as Via, JM De Guzman as Gabriel, and Enrique Gil as Michael. Ariel Rivera and Eula Valdez, who were both part of the 1997 series and the 1999 film, are set to join the cast playing different roles this time. Wenn V. Deramas who directed the 1997 series and the 1999 film is also set to direct the remake. This is one of my favorite telenovela in the 90’s and the 2011 remake never disappointed me. Its so refreshing to watch Dawn Zulueta and Eula Valdez justified the role of antagonist Selina. By the way, is Eagle Rigs for good now on ABSCBN?

Upcoming on Primetime Series…

Synopsis:

Elisa, (Melissa Ricks) is a beautiful and rich teenager and the eldest daughter of Mariano (Albert Martinez) and Dana Altamira (Agot Isidro). She is the perfect daughter, but little does her parents know that she is not who they thought she was and she kept a secret personality that they never knew of. One night, after Mariano's party, Elisa insisted her father to go out with her younger sister, Cristine (Isabella De Leon) and her cousins, Santi (Franco Daza) and Eduardo (Aldred Gatchalian). They go to a local club where there is a party being held there. The three, except Elisa soon get drunk. When Dana and Vivian (Mickey Ferriols) come to fetch them, they see that they are drunk and find out that Elisa is now missing. The investigators, Cristobal (Joem Bascon) and Giselle (Desiree Del Valle) investigate the mysterious indecent and they manage to list down names of people who might have possibly kidnapped Elisa, including her family members (aunts, uncles, cousins), her friends and classmates. The investigators then went to the places where Elisa used to go to, to try to solve the mystery. Will they find where Elisa is? Who is the one who kidnapped Elisa? Will the mystery behind the disappearance of Elisa be revealed?

Nasaan Ka Elisa?  is the upcoming teleserye of ABS-CBN, a Philippine remake of the Chilean 2009 drama Dónde Está Elisa? (later remade in Mexico in 2010), top billed by Melissa Ricks. Also starring Albert Martinez, Agot Isidro, Eric Fructuoso, Vina Morales  Christopher Roxas, Mickey Ferriols. The trailer is good and it looks like excitingly to watch.

Plot:

María Hernandez (Erich Gonzales) is a naive girl who dreams of a Prince Charming in her life. When she meets Luis Fernando Dela Vega (Enchong Dee), she thought she already met her Prince Charming. But when she sees him with another girl, Soraya Montenegro (Paw Diaz), she gets hurt and seeks revenge as she transforms into a rich, gorgeous woman and becomes the girlfriend of Luis Fernando's younger brother, Vladimir Dela Vega (Inno Martin). Will Luis love her again for who she was or who she changed into?

Maria La Del Barrio is the upcoming teleserye of ABS-CBN, a Philippine remake of the Mexican drama María la del Barrio (later remade in Mexico), top billed by Erich Gonzales. After GMA Network remade and brought the success of two of Thalia's soap operas; MariMar and Rosalinda ABS-CBN's decide to make their own version of Maria La Del Barrio Which was a Mexican TV telenovela that was first aired in 1996 on RPN 9 Dubbed in the Tagalog language it became the Second Philippine Phenomenon. It was aired on the television network RPN-9 the home of all classic Philippine Dramas and became the most loved soap opera in Philippine History dubbed in Tagalog. At the same time Thalia sang also the Tagalog version entitled Mariang Taga-Baryo under her Philippine album Nandito Ako. It also stars Enchong Dee, Ian Veneracion, Angel Aquino, Kaye Brosas, and with special participation of Ai Ai Delas Alas.

Truly, remakes rules the ABSCBN primetime dramas and will rule more in the coming weeks. So better fasten your seatbelt, seat back and relaxed and be entertained by these wonderful shows.

Music Video Review: Britney Spears' Till The World Ends.

Britney Spears released her new music video on March 4, 2011 and been hitting local and international charts. The song is her second single for her seventh studio album Femme Fatale. Till the World Ends was written by Dr. Luke, Alexander Kronlund, Max Martin and Kesha and produced Luke, Max Martin and Billboard. The song was leaked on March 3, 2011, and was released for digital download the following day. The song has uptempo dance-pop and electropop song with a chant-like chorus, where Spears sings about dancing until the end of the world. The music video shows an underground dance party of Britney Spears set on December 21, 2012. The video was filmed inside a basement in Los Angeles, California. 

The Music Video of 'Till the World Ends' was directed by Ray Kay and choreographed by Brian Friedman. Ray Kay has also directed various videos of popular artist including, Lady GaGa's Pokerface, Willow Smith's Whip My Hair, Sean Kingston and Justin Bieber's Eenie Meenie, Justin Bieber's Baby and Adam Lambert's For Your Entertainment and many more. The video begins with the words "December 21st, 2012" flashing on screen, while Spears appears strutting in an underground party wearing a studded leather jacket and stockings. Several people are seen running to a manhole and enter the sewer system to arrive to the party. This is followed by a dance routine in which Spears is wearing a sequined bodysuit and a small jacket with shoulder pads, while accompanied by female dancers. During the video, there are scenes of buildings burning and debris falling, as well as intercut scenes of Spears in front of an illuminated background. As the second verse begins, she dances provocatively with her male dancers. 

The Music Video is a danceable video. You can see Britney dancing along with people in an underground party. Comparing the video to her previous video Hold It Against Me, I certainly like he latest video. It reminded me of the music video of Lady GaGa Just Dance. Seeing Britney Dance along with people and partying while the world is crashing. Visually, the video has a bright quality and it showcases a very good music video. The song is a solid dance music with up beat tempo that will make you want to dance. The choreography was just too good compared to he previous videos. What this music video did lack was anything memorable. There was nothing special or unique about the music video for “Till the World Ends,” and the only thing that really stood out was Britney Spears motorcycle gloves, which I want. There seemed to be an orgy going on between the party goers, which you can somewhat make out in this screenshot of a girl grabbing someone’s leg in a sexual manner.

Overall, the video was just too good.  Britney is impressive in her dance and the song is just quite good. I'll give it 4 stars out of 5.

My Adam Levine Look

After three months, my hair had its renewed make over. It means, after of dozens of stresses, work loads, paper works, etc., I had a make over. I had a massage from a nice friend, I had hair cut and along with my sister-friends we had a bottomless food trip. We promised that after all the deadlines, thesis and school works we will go to Quaipo. We just did. 

During those days when we are haggard and stress, we tend to buy and eat everything that caught our attention (FOOD ONLY). We tagged ourselves as stress eaters. DISCLAIMER: Food Eaters eats EVERY FOOD THAT CAUGHT OUR ATTENTION, REGARDLESS OF THE PRICE. Thank God I have rich and fabulous friends. 

Here is my Adam Levine look. I asked the hair cutter to follow Maroon 5's front man's haircut but he seems to get overwhelmed and removed all my hair. :D

viaje a quaipo

Quiapo is a district and city square of Manila. Referred as the "Old Downtown", Quiapo in known for where cheap buys or goods are being sold at rock-bottom prices and was the home of the Quiapo Church, where the feast for the Black Nazarene is held, with over millions of people attending annually. 

I was originally born in Manila and spent my infant hood ( o d ba infant hood - meaning 1-4) in V.Mapa cor. Sta. Mesa. I really remember almost everything when I was young as early as that age. My mama and I always attend sunday's mass at Quaipo Church where we always have to drop by on the replica of the Black Nazarene. Luckily, I was able to touch it as early as I was, and mama taught me about God. It was I guess 1994 when we moved to Makati and lived here or good .. and the rest are history !

During those early years, Quiapo - Manila as a whole was a very dirty place (my judgement). So many vendors and garbage are scattered around. Almost a decade has passed, Quaipo - Manila was still a busy place. Vendors, Religious  Supporters, Rich, Poor, Beggars and even animals are around the place. But a more neater and cleaner Quaipo - Manila ! Particularly, the under ground tunnel going to the church is now cleaner than it was before.

On the height of the campaign of the church to protest about the RH Bill, this scene pictured out in my eyes. A billboard of a condom was hanging around the church. 

Quaipo is still a religious concrete structure for Filipino Catholic believers. I am not familiar of the history of the Quaipo church but one thing is for sure. Filipino is a religious people and it is already marked in our blood.   Feast of the Black Nazarene is celebrated every January 9, and recognize as one of the country's most attended feast.

Quaipo is 45- 1 hour away from Makati. If you are coming from my place (Pembo, Makati) you need to ride a Jeepney from C5-Blueboz to Guadualupe. And from Guadalupe you need to ride another Jeepney routed to TAFT-HERRAN. Just tell the Manong Driver that you are going to Taft Herran before you will be lost to somewhere else. From Taft, a jeep is waiting for you going to Quaipo. Lastly, you need to find the tunnel going to the Quiapo Church. I wont tell you..you find it ! Remember Students: ALWAYS ASKED FOR DISCOUNT!