Credits to the producer of the video –  Department of Tourism  Region VII Philippines

Be inspired. This is Cebu! Welcome!

After witnessing an event that shook the whole country, I detoxed myself from the vicious remarks I read on Facebook and other favorite blogs.  I held myself from making any comments – I promised not to use my site as an instrument to spread hatred. We are sad, we grieve for the victims but we will not fuel hatred as if what transpired is a reflection of the whole country.  I’m saying this because I cannot believe how some “kababayan” thought that its a case that can only happen in the Philippines.

I will not deny that there were mistakes committed by the police, media,  the government and even the usiseros. We cannot ignore those things. The drama was a criminal case that was under the command responsibility of the Mayor of the City of Manila and not of the President, not even you or me.  Let’s be clear about that.

We should not, will not let the world define us by this horrible event.  I just cannot accept the way some people think that its the fault of the whole nation. How backward. How stupid to think that way.

My faith in this country will never falter. I love my country, I love my city and I am proud to be called a Filipino.

One day, while looking through a display window, I saw the white rabbit waving and smiling at me. Curious. I had the sudden urge to talk to her.  I asked the white rabbit “What’s that funny paper attached to your face?” I noticed that it says, made in Hongkong, China. “You came all the way from China!”

“Society exists only as a mental concept; in the real world there are only individuals.” – Oscar Wilde

I found this near the front entrance of the Basilica del Sto. Nino, i never noticed this before.  I’m not sure whether the inscribed phrase is in Latin or Portuguese or Spanish. Perhaps you could help me with this one? ;D

Rain and sniffles is not a good combination – it makes me cranky and restless. I could bite people’s head off when not in a good mood. I love the rain but i hate the sniffles – its giving me parties in my head (aka migraines) that even Alaxan can’t alleviate the throbbing pain. Hmmm.  I think that’s the reason why I have the urge to eat chocolates like an expectant mom.  Nope. I’m done with the “expecting” part.

Anyhoo, since its the new President’s 1st State of the Nation Address today, I’ll post a national symbol. The kalesa/ caritela is a horse-drawn carriage used as a mode of transportation in some areas here in the Philippines. Here in Cebu its called tartanilla and its still being used in Cebu City’s downtown area, around Colon, the oldest street in the Philippines. (see map below). The tartanilla is driven by a kutsero and its as colorful as the Philippine Jeepney. I’ll try to catch one when its not rainy, meantime here’s a miniature from my archives.
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Stained glass window @ Basilica del Sto. Nino

History is written by the victors – Winston Churchill

If you want to learn more  about the history of Cebu or the “discovery” of the Philippines by Ferdinand Magellan (as claimed by then conquistadores), do visit the 16th century church, Basilica del Sto. Nino, look up and you’ll see a glimpse of the history on its painted ceiling.

As for my opinion  on Magellan’s “discovery” of the Philippines, I think we should discuss this personally. I believe that there are misinterpretations in the history of the Philippines. period. I stop here because I don’t have the authority to speak for it.