Unplanned trip to Angono Rizal

Voicebox Concert

I was requested by my friend and officemate, Katz Cruz, to take photos of their concert last December 16. Performers were not really professional singers but they were trained to sing and confidently sing in front of the crowd. The concert was staged at PETA Theater Center in Quezon City.

Together with Katz performing is her daughter Katrisse.

Congratulations Katz, Katrisse and the rest of the performers. Job well done!

See more of photos by clicking on this link VOICEBOX PHOTOS

FPPF Grand Reunion

Here's an upcoming event that I would definitely attend.
As emailed by Ka Lito of FPPF:

WHAT: FPPF Grand Reunion (everyone who joined the FPPF workshops since 1993, including all members of camera clubs, delegates of pw manila and pw asia 2008, photo summit)

WHEN: October 27, 2007 (Saturday)

Come and enjoy the event commemorating the 20th year of the FPPF.

Morning:
registration starts 7:30 a.m. at the Fort Santiago chamber
Fee is 150 to cover snacks
Shooting of models starts at 9 am - 11 a.m.
Lecture on lighting fundamentals by Allan Razo 2:00 pm.-4:00 p.m.
Venue: Arch Leandro Locsin auditorium at the NCCA, intramuros, manila

Evening:
Gala concert of the Philippine Madrigal Singers
8 p.m. cultural center of the Philippines

Tickets available at 5247576 and look for Karen

See you there!
-kalito

Manila Zoo

I had forgotten to bring my camera’s memory card last Friday so I dropped by the office last Sunday after lunch to get it. I brought my camera with me and thought of practice shoot. I passed by Robinson’s Galleria mall in Ortigas adjacent to our office building. Inside the mall, the atrium was packed with bystanders taking advantage of the free viewing of the Manny Pacquiao vs Antonio Barrera’s boxing fight. I hurriedly went to the office to get the memory cards and took picture of the crowd.

It’s always pleasant to roam the metropolis every time there’s a Pacquiao fight as there’s literally no traffic! Everyone is either at home watching TV or for those who have money ought to go to cinema and enjoy watching the big fight with no advertisement. I stayed and watched a few rounds and decided to leave the mall and visited Manila Zoo. The last time I went to Manila Zoo was last year with my brother Buboy, his wife, Janelma and their two-year old kid, James.

Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden or Manila Zoo in short is located on Adriatico Street in Malate. It has a total land area of 5.5 hectares and home to hundreds of animal and plant species. It was opened to the public on July 25,1959.

When I left the mall it was still sunny. The rain started to pour when I reached Manila Zoo! It rained all throughout that afternoon. Unfortunately, the rain mired me to stroll around so not much animals to spot.

Incidentally, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim already dumped the suggestions of transferring Manila Zoo from its current location to make way for a basketball coliseum. Let’s all hope that he will find ways to improve the facilities and the situation of animals being housed there.

Here are some of the photos I managed to take. Please click: Manila Zoo

OFF TOPIC:
A attraction is soon to rise in Manila, behind the Quirino Grandstand. Construction is underway and hopefully it’s finish in time for the upcoming Christmas season. It’s called the Ocean Park Manila. It’s an ocenarium similar to that of Singapore. This is one attraction you wouldn’t wanna miss! =)

Panalo si Pacman!

There are those who can afford to watch the fight of Manny Pacquiao in posh hotels and restaurants. It costs Php2,000 and up which comes with a meal. Theaters also offer to show it on big screen. I think it costs between PhP200-300.

But for those who do not have the means, opted to watch in malls for FREE!. Above photo was taken at Robinsons Galleria's atrium fastfood, Ortigas. It's a lot practical to watch while dining with friends or family.

Congrats Pacquiao, panalo!!!

Pandesal

Canon Photo Marathon - "The Urban Jungle Challenge"

Here's an upcoming photo contest of Canon of which I have already registered =) Please check out the link below for details. Goodluck!

Title: Canon Photo Marathon - "The Urban Jungle Challenge"
Date: 13 October 2007
Time: 8.00am - 9.00pm
Venue: The Blue Leaf, McKinley Hill Village, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

Participants have to pre-register.

On the actual day of the contest , each participant will be given 2 separate themes at different times to base their photographs on. They are given 3 hours to complete each thematic work, return to the specified location with their pictures, AND download them onto the server before getting their next assignment. Submitted photos eligible for the contest MUST be taken within the area of MAKATI CITY and on the day itself.

Judges will evaluate all the pictures after each round.

A first and second place winner will be awarded per theme. A bonus category will also be announced should the photographers have enough time to take and submit more photos. One winner will be awarded for the bonus category.

A shortlist of 10 per theme will be the basis for selecting the three top prize winners. 1st Runner Up and Grand Prize winner will be sent to the Canon Photo Clinic. Should any of them not be able to attend, the 2nd runner up will be sent in their place.

For more details please visit this link:Photomarathonasia

UAAP Cheer Dance Competition 2007

I was at Subic doing a photo shoot of The Cliff when I received a text message from Rosahlee. It read: “Nood tayo bukas UAAP cheering competition sa Araneta, ganda mag-shoot dun!” and I replied: "Yehey! Makakanood na rin ako ng live!" I’m so excited as I only get to see it on TV.

I met Rosahlee at Taco Bell, Araneta Center past 1pm. The main gate of Araneta coliseum is already filled with yuppies lined up as early 1:00pm though the event starts at 3:00pm. You can easily identify which team or school they represent through their shirts. As usual, scalpers take advantage in selling overprized tickets. Tickets were actually sold out! Rosahlee had a pass from the sponsor, Samsung, so we came in at the production gate at the back. Inside the full-house Big Dome, the deafening beat of drums resonated as students, alumni or supporters from each represented schools cheer their lungs out. The lively crowd and colorful balloons, flags, costumes and other paraphernalia definitely add to the fiesta mood.

Schools vying for the coveted title are Adamson University , Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle Univeristy (DLSU), University of the East (UE), Far Eastern University (FEU), National University (NU), University of the Philippines (UP) and University of Santo Tomas (UST). The criteria for the competition were 50 percent for choreography, 30 percent for synchronization, 10 percent for audience audibility and 10 percent for costume.

The UP Pep Squad won the 2007 UAAP Cheerdance Competitions, dethroning, five-year consecutive champion, UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe by a mere margin. UP brought home a trophy and the top prize of P172,500. They garnered an over-all score of 92.66 points. They truly deserved the title because of their seamless aerobatics performance and pyramid styles. UST Salinggawi Dance finished second place, with measly 0.5 points behind UP. FEU Pep Squad, won third place with a score of 91.66 points. Ateneo de Manila University Blue Bubble Battalion finished fourth, Adamson Pep Squad fifth, UE Pep Squad sixth, DLSU Pep Squad seventh and NU Pep Squad eighth.

I am one lucky girl shooting like crazy on the photographers’ row. I’m grateful to Rosahlee for the opportunity to capture the event. Amazing!

Please click this link =>UAAP to see photos of competing schools.

The Cliff Royale photo shoot

Alvin and I were invited by Charina to shoot a resort called The Cliff Royale. It is located at the Ntional Road Bgy Baretto,Olongapo City.

Charina was actually recommended by her friend to the owner of the resort, Mrs. Elisa Montecastro. Since it was a “friendly/mutual” discussion among friends, there was no rate involved. In short Charina will shoot for free and invite friends along in exchange for free accommodation including transportation and food, hence the invite. Of course, I said yes. Being an amateur like Charina, it’s a good opportunity to hone my skill.

So I took a day off last Friday. Our meeting place was at Shell Gas station in Oliveros Edsa, Quezon City. When I arrived, a silvery-white-haired-woman immediately called me and asked if my name was Charina. I haven’t met Mrs. Montecastro but I got the feeling that it was her. So I introduced myself and true enough, it was Mrs. Montecastro.

Mrs. Montecastro is 78 years old. Though the white hair is apparent and with eye glasses on, she doesn’t look her age. She’s energetic and she can walk fast without stooping. She’s a retired teacher turned businesswoman. She’s an alumnae of UP Diliman and had taught at a public school for 20 years. She’s a well-traveled person. She had visited almost all the 7 wonders of the world. Wow! I hope to do that when I reached her age or even younger. =) The photos according to her will be used for advertisement purposes (i.e., brochure and for its website) to promote the resort. After a few minutes Charina and Alvin and Anthony, Alvin’s co-teacher, arrived at the gas station.

The resort was so called the Cliff because it was built along the cliff. The surrounding area is filled with establishments, restaurant and bar. You will not notice that there’s such a resort in the area. When you enter the gate, you will be surprised of the hidden view inside. The veranda is overlooking the vast ocean. There are villas with unique colors and eclectic structures, a fusion of modern concrete and nipa hut style. There’s a established walkway along the cliff going to the beach. Although it is still continuously being developed. A pool is yet to be excavated. A spa would definitely sell the resort. But it surely is a nice and relaxing weekend getaway.

Please click => The Cliff for more images. For details you may contact Mrs.Elisa Montecastro mobile no: 0917-8515273.

Verditct: Erap, Guilty of Plunder

The decision read:

“Judgment is hereby rendered finding the accused, former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada guilty beyond reasonable doubt of the crime of plunder.”

“The penalty imposable for the crime of plunder is reclusion perpetua to death. There being no aggravating or mitigating circumstances, however, the lesser penalty shall applied.”

Former president Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada was found guilty of plunder but was acquitted on the perjury charge. The Special Division of the Sandiganbayan convicted Erap on two counts of plunder and sentenced him to life imprisonment after a six-year trial. His co-accused in the case, his son Sen. Jinggoy Estrada and his former lawyer Edward Serapio were acquitted on the ground that the prosecution failed to prove their guilt.

Related links:
Sandigan bayan decision
GMA news:erapplundertrial

Sagada Escapade

Aug 24 (Fri)

Head count, 2. It’s just me and Rosahlee leaving for Sagada. Mellany, Dory, Ava, Joyce and Marge have not confirmed so two brave souls, rain or shine pushed through as planned.

I stayed up late last night to fix the things I’m going to bring in our trip to Sagada. The weather looks fine though intermittently it rain in the afternoon. It was past 5:00pm when I called up Rosahlee at her office. She had reminded me of the “must have” stuffs in my backpack: sleeping bag, extra jacket, sleepers/mojo, flash light and above all, pocket money! From the list mentioned, I don’t remember packing any of those stuffs in my bag. Rosahlee was quipped to say “Don’t tell me you only bring camera and lenses in your bag!?” She of course based the essentials in our first Sagada experience it was sooo cold considering it was summer. I was hesitant to bring the bulky sleeping bag because I got the feeling that the weather is pleasantly beautiful in Sagada. Well, I still followed Rosahlee’s must haves for my own good =) “Mahirap na baka manigas ako sa lamig! Hahah”! I still have time to pack those essentials, so I called my cousin Gemma and requested the stuffs to be brought to our office in Ortigas.

After dinner, I left the office past 9pm. I took a cab and headed to Victory Liner, Pasay station. I texted Rosahlee that I was already at the terminal. In a few minutes, we met and boarded at exactly 11:00pm. Our route was bound for Baguio. Rachel and Ten, both OCMI members and real life sweethearts =), are also leaving for Sagada on the same day. They left 10pm onboard Autobus straight route from Manila to Banaue Sagada. So we will just meet them in Sagada.

Aug25 (Sat)

It took 7 hours travel from Manila to Baguio. We safely reached Baguio at 5:45am. Just as I stepped out of the bus, the cold weather sunk into my skin causing my sleepy head to wake up “aaargghr, ang lamig! ” Men were standing at the waiting area beside the bus station offering transient houses for rent. We decided to take breakfast at Chowking before going to Dangwa station. Since it’s going to be a long travel, we also bought packed lunch. The first trip to Sagada was at 6:00am followed by 7:30am trip. We’ve missed the first trip so we’re in for the second trip. A 70-seater non-aircon bus was waiting and already half-filled. The front and rear seats were occupied by Koreans. We were seated at seat nos. #33-34.

There were three stop-overs en route to Sagada. At each stop, fresh vegetables and snacks are being sold by the locals. One has to take advantage of these stops to eat, stretch and take pee, otherwise you’ll wait for hours for the next stop. The used to be bumpy and dusty roads to Sagada had now turned to wider and concrete roads. Some re-concreting of roads were still in progress.

We arrived safely in Sagada at 3:30pm. Rachel and Ten arrived earlier and had already settled at St. Joseph’s Inn. Their room cost PhP500/day. We’ve not eaten the packed lunch we bought at Chowking so we took the first inn we checked, Traveler’s Inn, and settled. August month is not peak season in Sagada so we’re the only guests that day. The ground floor has a mini grocery and a souvenir shop There were approximately 6 rooms on 2nd floor, I just don’t remember, there are rooms with 3 beds and common CR and a room with two beds with CR inside. The 3rd floor has similar set-up. There’s a common kitchen with free use of gas range. We got the room for two persons with CR and water heater inside; it cost PhP200/head, a little lower than the rate of George’s Guesthouse. We then ate our packed lunch inside the room.

After lunch we unpacked some of stuffs in our bag, wasted no time met with Rachel and Ten and walked around Sagada. We went to the famous Log Cabin Guesthouse and Café for dinner reservation. A visit in Sagada is not complete without the gastronomic buffet in Log Cabin sumptuously prepared by French Chef (a.k.a. Chef Aklay). He considered Sagada as his second home. Reservation is until 12noon, no walk-in except for Weekdays where they served regular menu. We met Mildred, whom introduced herself as the sister of the owner. She has a bubbly persona and very accommodating. She allowed us to take photos inside the restaurant. We met Chef Aklay in the kitchen busy preparing stuffs for dinner. He has nice built, tall, good-looking with natural curly hair. I wanted to take photo of Chef Aklay but he refused and jokingly told me “You need to get permission first from my mom.” Chef Aklay was camera shy! =)

We asked Mildred of nearby sightseeing and she suggested us to go to pottery. We were lucky enough to get a ride up the hill where the pottery was. Nobody’s around when we got inside the pottery. May be because it was weekend so there were no workers. We took pictures inside and headed back to the town. It was already 5:00pm. Usually it drizzles in the afternoon. We dropped by a souvenir shop bought a map and asked for a nice spot to explore for tomorrow. The man recommended us to hike Kiltepan upon seeing our cameras. He offered us to buy native coffee called Pidlisan but we promised that we will just go back tomorrow afternoon. We headed back to our house, took a bath then met with Rachel and Ten for the much-awaited dinner at Log Cabin.

Inside a cozy Log Cabin, you’ll hear a gentle background music, fresh flowers were set on each table with candle lit, and a fireplace completes the ambiance. It was a gastronomic feast for the four of us. Desserts and coffee were perfect combo. It only cost us PhP250! We talked over dinner our itinerary for tomorrow.

Aug26 (Sun)

Rosahlee’s mobile phone alarmed at 4:00am. The cold weather was tempting to sleep more after a long travel that we’ve been through yesterday. In a few minutes we woke up and Rosahlee called Rachel on the phone that we’ll meet them in front of George’s Guesthouse. The main entrance of their inn was of course still closed at that undgodly hour. Rachel and Ten were stuck inside and cannot find the other way out. The housekeeper was still sleeping and they don’t know where to find him. We agreed to go ahead. Rachel and Ten will just follow us at Kiltepan.

It’s 5:00am.”aaarghrrrr” cold! Lizardo bus was waiting for passengers in front of St.Theodore’s hospital. The bus usually leaves at exactly 5:00am followed by 6:30am trip going to Baguio. We started walking a few meters with no idea where Kiltepan was. All we have was a map for direction. After a while, Lizardo bus was approaching. We flagged it down and asked the driver to drop us at the jump-off site, approximately 300m from municipal hall. We’re lucky to have ridden the bus and asked for direction. There was no signage that would point the way to Kiltepan and there were no locals yet at that early morning to ask for direction. The ride cost PhP 15. From jump-off it’ll take 45 minutes to reach Kiltepan. The driver told us to just follow the trail and keep right. The trail was established already, it can even accommodate a 4x4 vehicle. One cannot get lost.

When we reached the summit, we were greeted by sunrise! Intermittently the fog would cover the panorama and the cold wind would blow on our face. It was such a fascinating moment to be with nature and experience this magnificent scenery. Rosahlee and I enjoyed every moment taking photos of the rice terraces and a village on top. Rachel and Ten followed few hours later. As promised, they brought a cookset with them and made coffee for us. What could be better than that?! Sipping coffee atop Kiltepan while looking at a magnificent view. I can feel the fog running through my skin. We were all thankful for that golden opportunity. We’re all elated as we descend the trail.

We walked from jump-off back to town. We were hoping that a bus would again pass by but unfortunately there was none. We went straight to Episcopal church where we met two local boys. They accompanied us at the Calvary, echo valley and in the hanging coffins. It was very tiring as you have to walk uphill and sometimes rolling. The boys never seem to get tired! =)

After an exhausting walk, Rosahlee and I decided to eat at Yoghurt House while Rachel and Ten went back to their inn and cooked lunch. Yoghurt House serves American menu. You can order various combinations of yoghurts, jams, cereals as well as pastas. All of them homemade, and go well with a hot cup of coffee. They also have tasty breakfast set menus that include the usual eggs, toast and other sandwiches. We had spaghetti with vegetables, triple decker tuna sandwich and banana yoghurt for lunch.

The hearty meal definitely recharged my worn out itchy feet =). We went back to Traveller’s Inn for the needed rest and hot shower. Around 3pm we called up Rachel and Ten and informed them that we will be going to a souvenir shop to buy the local Pidlisan coffee as we promised the man whom recommended to trek Kiltepan. Afterwards we met Rachel and Ten whom already arranged for the guide at the Municipal Hall going to Sumaguing cave. The cave trip cost PhP100 each. Freddy was the assigned guide for us whose been doing it for more than 10 years. So we’re safe with this guy, surely he knows the ins and outs of the cave. =)

From the Municipal Hall, Sumaguing cave is approximately 200m. We walked going to the cave. You can actually rent for a ride, of course that’s additional cost. We stopped at a nearby sari-sari store while Freddy got his lamp. The way going inside the cave was slippery. You can hear the bats “eeeking” and bats’ droppings are all over the place, from your hands and even on top of your head, ngek! =) But don’t worry, you get to wash your hands as there are flowing waters inside and for sure your whole body will get literally wet during the caving trip. I managed to take several shots inside the cave but did not attempt to go far where you have to cross the ledge with flowing waters. I have experienced the whole caving thing during my first Sagada trip though. I was afraid of what might happen to my camera. I didn’t take the risk. Dad did the same thing. Rachel and Ten went on with Freddy. It’s not really advisable to bring SLR camera inside the cave. A compact camera would be good enough to capture the images inside.

We’re lucky to get a ride on our way back. It was only 5pm when we got back to the Municipal Hall. Rachel and Ten went back to their inn to rest and prepare food for dinner. Dad and I went on for another food hunt, this time we dined at Masferre’s restaurant. Old photos were hanging on the walls depicting the unexploited images of rice terraces, the villages and natives of Sagada. All photos were beautifully captured back in the 1930-40’sby master photographer Eduardo Masferre',the Father of Philippine Photography, all in black and white. His works depict the unspoiled local customs and traditions of the Cordilleras. I hope his works and the images will be preserved or perhaps put in a museum. Taking picture inside the resto is not allowed.

Masferre’s restaurant offers Chinese and Filipino cuisines. We ordered chopsuey and beef steak which were very delicious, I liked the fresh veggy very much. After dinner we went back to Log Cabin for coffee but unfortunately they don’t serve walk-in diners even for just coffee. We decided to try St. Joseph’s restaurant but we’re too tired to walk as their location was too steep. We then went at Alfred’s for cup of coffee. We met and chat with Benedict who was there in Sagada along with other UP alumni. But he was dining alone, enjoying a quite moment. He was eating Alfredo’s special, a yellow rice mixed with veggy, and pork and egg on top. We later ordered and take out Alfredo’s special for tomorrow’s packed meal. We had a nice chat with him while drinking hot coffee.

Aug27 (Mon)

We failed to catch the 5:00am trip to Baguio so we took the next trip at 6:00am. The bus left at exactly 6:00am but it stopped now and then because of oil leak which caused us delay.

We arrived at Baguio past 1:00pm, went straight at Jollibee and bought lunch for take out. I had to sneak out to buy “pasalubong” at a nearby market that took me only15mins. to complete my list. We haven’t got ticket bound for Manila but as soon as we got in the terminal the driver had told us to already go inside the bus, as it’s about to leave. “Yehey! Uwi na kami!” =)

I highly recommend a visit to Sagada. A weekend getaway is fine but if you can stay longer do it. There’s so much beauty too see and experience, clear mountain air, slower pace of life, the cold weather, the friendly people of Sagada, the good company and most especially the succulent food. =)

I hope to visit again soon!

Skate Asia'07

Skate Asia'07 started last Aug12 and ended today at Mall of Asia (MOA). Alvin invited me to join this photo ops with sir Ador, whom covered the event for Fuji Film.

It was raining hard this morning. I was feeling lethargic to wake up and hesitant to join today's photo shoot. Alvin texted and told me "bangon ka na, kita tayo MOA ha" (please get up, i'll see you at MOA). Alvin just bought a SIGMA 50-150mm lens and excited to use it today. Okay, I got up reluctantly, prepared breakfast and took a bath. The rain hasn't stopped. The event starts at 9:00am and am I still home waiting for the rain to stop. Alvin together with Charina were already at MOA. It was past 10:00am when the rain stopped and so I hurriedly got my bag and camera and went to MOA.

The competition was ongoing, I arrived 11:15am at MOA. I texted and called Alvin on his mobile phone but no reply from him. Alvin may have not noticed his phone ringing because of the loud background music. It wasn't really hard to locate them because their apparatus are so obvious. The mere flash would lead me to the photographers' corner. I first saw sir Ador with his 70-200mm lens from the opposite side then Alvin and Charina.

I'm also excited to see the new lens that Alvin recently bought. I joined them and had a great time taking photos of the young figure skaters. It's good to have a telephoto lens specially when shooting moving and far subjects like this situation. Here are some photos (link: Skate Asia'07) I managed to take with my 24-70mm lens.
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Planning for next Sagada

I was looking at my calendar for next holidays to come. It was a perfect timing when I received a text message from Rosahlee (a.k.a. Dad) asking me if I have any plans on long weekends? She sent similar message to Ava, Mellany and Marge and to solicit advice where we can all spend a nice long weekend.

Two choices came about, Anawangin and Sagada. We got no replies from the three gals so Rosahlee and I decided to choose Sagada! Yes! We’ll go to Sagada, yahoo!

It has been eight years since my first visit to Sagada. It was summer, May 1998 when I went there, with other OCMI members. We’re 12 in the group and Tapz was the only guy around.

I googled Sagada and look for a place to stay/accommodation. Dad sent us email in this context with hash itinerary:

Hello Peeps,
This is it... No rules... except, we need confirmation kung matutuloy tayo o hindi...Kung GO kayo, kindly confirm with this email.

Escapade : Sagada 2007 (hindi pwedeng OCMI goes to Sagada kasi kailangan may ITng maayos yun, patay tayo sa mga KUYA, LOLO at LOLA natin pag-wala)

Friday August 24 ETD (from Manila to Baguio): 12mn - sakay tayong bus papuntang Baguio... (Victory Pasay) - any volunteer kung sino makakabili? Please email your account# para mabayaran po yung ticket before bumili... Hephep... pangit mag-Cubao, pangit daw mga Bus doon at tsaka mas madaming sumasakay to think na galling Pasay din ang bus doon...

ETA (Baguio) : 5am (syempre sa station yan ng Victory) Breakfast at hanapin natin sakayan papuntang Sagada : 5-6am (umpisa na ng bahala escapade)...

Pagkasakay natin ng papuntang Sagada, NO RULES na tayo - kung sama sama pa din tayo agiikot pwede din, kung hiwahiwalay OK lang din... NO RULES nga...Kung 1 bahay lang tayo pwede din kung hiwa-hiwalay OK lang din (kung may gusto sa pang-mayaman na accommodation, dun ka pumunta. Kung DUKHA ka, mag-tent ka...) OK ba kayo dun?

Kitakits ulit (eto dapat buo tayo dito):

Monday August 27, ETD (from Sagada to Baguio) : 5am (Kung ba-biyahe tayo ng may muta at di na mag-tu-toothbrush, gumising ka ng 450am, pwede... basta dapat 5am nasa bus station ka...

Pagdating sa Baguio, may option na umuwi agad (kung gusto mo) or yung gusto magpwaiwan, pwede din (bahala ka sa buhay mo)....

O ayan malinaw ba?

O mag-confirm na...Email agad... Oi Juvy, Kahit anong mangyari, tuloy tayong 2 dito ha...

Dad / Rosahlee

Sagada, here we go! Yahoooo! Excited na ko!

Mechanical Action

I was at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City yesterday. 'Twas actually my first time to be there. It's very similar to Glorietta Mall in Ayala, Makati. Going there is very convenient that is if you're taking metro rail transit(MRT), as there's a passage connected to the mall.

I didn't go there to shop or even stroll. I was there to see the Mechanical Action! It’s a theatrical circus performance of man-powered machine and acrobatic acts. Last week it was shown at Glorietta Mall which is far from my place. Since Trinoma is just one-ride away from our house, so I thought of watching the show. They have 3 schedules that start at 1:00pm, 3:00pm and 6:00pm. I watched the 6:00pm show at the activity center.

It was a nice show and very entertaining, considering it’s free! It featured aerial artist elevated by an acrobat walking inside a giant wheel and a contortionist on a turntable powered by unicycles. Please check out other photos here: Mechanical Action.

a contortionist on a turntable powered by unicycles. wow! look how well she executes a balancing act. =)

photos originally uploaded by Juvy Torno

Planning for wedding…

My brother, Buboy, is married to Janelma for more than 3 years. They had civil wedding and would want to renew their vows in church. My parents promised to give them church wedding next year and both gladly appreciated it.

Of course, they’ll need a wedding planner. My mom and sister had appointed me to be the wedding planner/coordinator. So it means if this didn’t turn out well, they all have to point their fingers on me. How I wish it’s my own wedding that I’m actually planning =). Well, I guess I should treat this as a practice preparation for my future wedding which only God knows when! Hahah!

So initially I prepared a checklist that would help us in the preparation. Last Saturday, Janelma together with her sister, Janilyn and I went in Quezon City and look for the prospective church. Buboy had to work that day so he wasn’t able to join the search.

We visited two churches, the first church was Sta. Rita de Cascia Parish located inside Philamlife Homes, just walking distance from MRT North station. We met the staff named Jane. She’s very accommodating and very helpful in attending to our queries. She gave as a leaflet/wedding requirements. The wedding package cost PhP12,000 inclusive of the following: clerical jobs (pre and post wedding); stipend for the priest solemnizing; fresh flower décor; carpet use; electricity consumption for video coverage and marriage fee for local civil registrar; The church also has a social hall for reception which has a capacity of 250 persons. It costs PhP 8,000 with reservation fee of PhP 1,000 and PhP1,000 caterer’s fee. They have five (5) wedding time slots in Saturdays which starts at 8:30am followed by 10:00am, 11:30am, 2:00pm and 3:30pm. We requested to be tentatively enlisted on July 14, 2008 (Sat) at 11:30am slot.

Sta. Rita de Cascia Parish Church

The second church was Mt.Carmel Parish near Broadway and St.Paul College,QC. We inquired at the office for the wedding package. The staff was not as accommodating as the staff of the first church. The lady staff just pointed her finger on the bulletin board to see for ourselves the wedding package. The guard approached us and was kind enough to give us a flyer. I was actually copying the info on the board when he gave me the leaflet. “Naawa sa akin.” I had a chat with the guard and I learned that he will be retiring this year. He accompanied us to the social hall where there was an on-going set up of wedding reception. We took a peek and took photo of the venue.

Mt Carmel Parish

If I were to choose, I would like the first church. However, the reception hall is not as nice-looking as that of Mt Carmel’s, which is newer and bigger. It would take a good caterer to turn it into a lovely venue. More updates to come…

photos originally uploaded by Juvy Torno

Edwin and Rochelle Nuptial

I’ve been wanting to shoot actual wedding since finishing my advance photography class. I wanted to experience how it is done and get the feel if this is the kind of expertise in photography I will pursue in the near future, who knows?!!!…

Alvin Balunes, who’s my classmate in FPPF advance class was kind enough to invite me to a wedding shoot, Rochelle and Edwin’s. He has been assisting some of photo shoots of our instructor in FPPF, Sir Ador Pamintuan. He’s supposed to assist sir Ador but he was commissioned to be the wedding singer hence, he gave me his slot. Thanks Alvin!

Edwin and Rochelle’s wedding was held last July 28,2007, 3:00 pm at the Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Makati. Reception followed at the City Garden Hotel in Makati.

It would really help if one reads wedding photography books as well as magazines to get ideas in posing the bride and groom. I would sometimes just observe and learn from the pro, sir Ador and sir Vic, how quickly they compose artistically and how they can easily command the group for candid shots.

It takes a lot of courage and patience and most of all practice to become pro. For now, I am enjoying every step of the way to hone my skills. I hope that I will someday wear the hat of a pro. =)

photos originally uploaded by Juvy Torno

Mall of Asia

The SM Mall of Asia is the largest shopping mall in the Philippines and the 7th largest shopping mall in the world. It is owned and operated by SM Prime Holdings, under the management of Henry Sy, a Chinese-Filipino business tycoon. It opened on May 21, 2006.

The Mall of Asia was constructed within the reclamation area, west of Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City, aptly nicknamed "Bay City". It is built on 19.5 hectares of reclaimed land and has a gross floor area of 386,224 square meters. The mall is located at the southmost tip of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue.

One day is actually not enough to roam around and check out every nook of the mall especially if your knees are weak.


Incidentally, this is where RCBC held its annual bowling tournmament. The company that I worked for is an affiliate, so we were able to experience a very nice venue. Last year, we held it at SM Megamall. The bowling area has 42 lanes and automatic scoring screens.

A giant globe, one of the attractions outside the mall The mall's front view at night.
with my nephew,Christian

Aside from the mall's main attraction, IMAX theater, the mall features the Philippines's first Olympic-sized ice skating rink. At 61 by 30 meters, the rink is described as the biggest of its kind in Southeast Asia. Whoa! =)

LRT Station

My ignorance had almost caused me trouble. I had no idea that it was forbidden to take photos in light railway transit (LRT) station. I had snapped few shots when the lady guard hollered at me "ma'am bawal po mag-picture paki-usap, humingi po kayo ng permit!" People are looking at my direction and immediately I hid my camera inside my bag as if nothing happened, "deadma". Thank God, the train was already approaching, so i jumped in right away! "Whew, what a reprieved!"

These "sneak" shots were taken at Quirino LRT station =)

Santuario de San Antonio church

Santuario de San Antonio church is located in Forbes Park, Makati City. We had previously passed by this church during our visit in Manila American Cemetery but decided to shoot some other time. Yesterday, Rosahlee and I pushed through with our plan and took picture of the church despite a gloomy weather.

I used a monochrome effect on the picture below. Please click the link: Santuario de San Antonio to see more of the images.

Binatog

I haven't eaten this for quite sometime...it's called "binatog", steamed white corn kernels mixed with milk, grated coconut and sugar. Others also put pinch of salt to taste.

I was at home last weekend with nothing to do that afternoon. Later, I heard “teng,teng,teng,teng” a sound created from a round metal whipped by another small metal rod. Instantly I know there’s a pushcart and someone’s selling binatog. That distinct “teng,teng,teng” sound has been associated with binatog. Unlike the vendor of “taho” the vendor of binatog need no effort to holler “binatooooog”. The sound of metal already pulls customers to buy.

At last, i've eaten binatog! It only costs five pesos(PhP5.00). Yummmy! =). So when was the last time you ate binatog? o hindi ka pa nakakain ni minsan? try it!!! =)

baywalk ???

At first glance, did you recognize that photos were taken at baywalk,Roxas Boulevard? Some of my friends have to look twice before recognizing that 'twas indeed baywalk. I took pictures of sunset at baywalk quite a few times but it's only now that i've seen the mountain at the background. It was fascinating to see the mixture of dark clouds slowly engulfing the light.

It seems that patrons along the bay do not mind the approaching rain. They continue to chat and enjoy the scenery. The color of lanterns added to a laid-back ambiance. =)

OCMI BMC1 at UP Diliman

OCMI members Vince,Richard,Rachel,Ava,Ten and I met last Saturday at UP Diliman. This is where we held our basic mountaineering course for batch XI with only two participants, Sheldon and Jason. Quantity doesn't matter it's the quality of members we produce that matters most. They were already jogging around the oblation when I arrived. They finished jogging past 10:am so we decided to eat early lunch and discussed OCMI's history at the table. Rachel had informed me and Vince to assist in introducing the organization and share to the participants OCMI's history and its culture. I guessed it goes with the age as Vince and I were pioneer in OCMI. I hope Sheldon and Jason will pass the training and become part of OCMI family. Goodluck guys! =)

a bit of trivia:
The Oblation is the iconic symbol of the University of the Philippines, represented by a man with arms wide-stretched and face facing up, symbolizing selfless offering of one's self to his country. The Oblation was made by Professor Guillermo E. Tolentino with the help of his assistant Anastacio T. Caedo, his student apprentice. According to a book tribute to Guillermo Tolentino, it was Anastacio Caedo, not Fernando Poe Sr., who served as the model for the sculpture.

Malate Church

Malate Chruch is located in Remedios and M. H. del Pilar Sts., Manila. Facing baywalk Roxas Boulevard where you can view a beautiful sunset.

It is renowned for two points of historical interest. It is dedicated to Nuestra Senora de Remedios (Our Lady of Remedies), an image of the Virgin Mary to whom the faithful have turned in times of trouble over four centuries. The church is also historically significant as the base from which the British launched their assault on Intramuros, which then placed Manila under British rule for a two-year period. Photographers love to shoot the picturesque, well-kept facade of this gray-stone church, an intriguing mixture of Romanesque and Baroque styles.


altar inside Malate church


Restaurants, hotels and other recreations can be found in the area. Be sure to stroll at the baywalk and experience entertainment and dining by the bay.

Paru-paro

Paru-paro is a Tagalog term for butterfly. When I was in Gasan Marinduque, I had an opportunity to witness (again) how butterflies are breed. Although I’ve seen the whole life cycle of butterflies with accompanying film showing at Butterfly Garden in Palawan (entrance fee costs: P15), I wouldn’t mind seeing it again. At least I got to see it for free. My Aunt Salve had a small cage in her backyard for breeding butterflies. It’s such a fascinating transformation and indeed lovely to capture in the photos.

It seems that breeding butterflies has now become a major source of income in Marinduque that used to be predominantly coconut industry. Marinduque is a typhoon frequented province. This made it difficult for the coconut industry to make progress hence, this shift in industry.

My Aunt Salve would sell a piece of butterfly between 7 to 10 pesos. From what I’ve heard, the middleman gains more by selling it at 14 pesos.

Please click this link paru-paro to see more pictures.

Manila American Cemetery and Memorial

I always look forward to Saturday. It means that I get to go out and practice photography. Rosahlee (aka Dads) is my shooting buddy. We both like to explore what the city has to offer for the sake of capturing its images. Manila is truly an exciting and fascinating place.

Our yesterday’s adventure was in Manila American Cemetery and Memorial located in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Dads and I met at 3:00pm in Shell Gas Station along Edsa, Ayala Makati City. We took the McKinley road passing through the “millionaire’s row” of Forbes Park, the exclusive Manila Polo Club and Manila Golf Club. Sanctuario de San Antonio church is also found inside this prominent place.

We have invited Joyce, a fellow OCMI member, to join us but due to urgent matter she expressed regret and skipped yesterday’s session. I hope she’ll be able to join our future photography adventure. The cemetery is apparently the largest cemetery in the Pacific for U.S. personnel killed during World War II, and also holds war dead from the Philippines and other allied nations. Inside this 152 acres cemetery are headstones made of white marble. A chapel at the middle of the cemetery is adorned with symbolic sculpture and montage. The memorial contains the names of those missing in action inscribed in the wall.

We could have stayed a little longer and wait for the moon to come out but the cemetery closes at 5:00pm. We were so occupied trying out different perspective then the guard had to stop us, “ma’am mag-close na po, bukas ulit!“

We decided to take snack in Prince of Jaypur, an Indian restaurant at the Fort area. We had rotti and shawarma for snacks with curry sauce and mixture of other sauces. Delicioso! The set-up inside is of course inspired by Indian culture. Quite dark but it didn’t stop us from taking photos inside the resto. =)



After a delicious snacks, we roamed the Fort and take pictures of posh condo buildings. We had the chance to pass by the Tent where there’s an ongoing Wedding Fair event. One of the activities there was pre-nuptial shoot with a gondola set-up. We enjoyed taking photos of the two parrots placed at the entrance of the fair.

We left the Fort past 8pm. We went back to the church as the lights were still open. We were hoping that we can still take photos inside the church but the front door was already closed. “Well, next time…let’s just call it a night.“

Please click this link:Manila American Cemetery to see more of my photos.