The Unspoken

OWWA Scholarship

2008-05-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

1. Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)

The Education for Development Scholarship Program is a scholarship grant offered to qualified beneficiaries/dependents of OWWA member-OFWs who intend to enroll in any 4 to 5-year baccalaureate course.

It is given in the form of a financial assistance amounting to P 30,000.00 per semester. The OWWA pays the tuition fee directly to the school and releases the remaining amount upon the scholars' submission of grades for the semester.

Scholarship Privileges

Financial assistance amounting to P 30,000.00 per semester
The scholar may choose his / her desired program/course offered by a CHED-accredited college or university
Scholarship shall continue until completion of the course (4-5 years), regardless of the status of OFW membership provided the Scholarship Agreement is complied with

Eligibility Requirements

Must be a child of a married OWWA member or brother / sister of an unmarried OWWA member
Must be 21 years old or below
Must be a Filipino citizen
Be in good health and with good moral character
Must have an average grade of at least 80% and belong to the upper 20% of the graduating class

Documentary Requirements

Accomplished application forms (2 sets)
1"x 1" ID pictures (2 copies)
Proof of relationship to Member (copy of Birth Certificate of applicant and of the Member if related as brother or sister duly certified by the Local Civil Registrar or NSO)
Form 137 or Transcript of Records with Principal's Certification on Scholastic Standing
Proof of OWWA membership (i.e. Official Receipt of OWWA Contribution/Certification from OWWA Membership Processing Center)
Health Certificate attesting to physical fitness of applicant (Form B)
Certificate of Good Moral Character issued by the School Principal/Guidance Counselor (Form C)
Certification that applicant belongs to upper 20% of graduating class issued by school principal (2 sets)
Statement of applicant that he/she has not earned units in any post-secondary / undergraduate course (Form E)
Sworn Statement that he/she has no pending application for resident immigrant status in any country and does not have dual citizenship signed by parent or legal guardians (Form F)

2. Skills-for-Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)

The Skills for Employment Scholarship Program is a scholarship program that the OWWA offers in coordination with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), to land-based or sea-based OWWA member-OFW's or their dependents/beneficiaries.

A qualified applicant may avail of either a one-year technical of a six-month vocational course offered following the regular school year calendar.

Upon receipt of the scholarship voucher, the grantee may enroll in any TESDA-registered program. Program choices shall be supportive of the land - and sea-based skills requirement. Financial assistance for a one-year program is P14,500.00 while for a six-month program is P7,250.00.

The amount of financial assistance will be paid directly to the training institution. If the tuition fee is more than the financial assistance, the scholar will shoulder the difference. If the tuition fee is less, the difference will be given to the scholar upon completion of the course.

Course offerings include: agriculture and fishery; processed food and beverages; tourism (hotel and restaurant); decorative crafts and ceramics; gifts, toys and housewares; jewelry; metals and engineering; furniture and fixtures; garments; construction; communication/electronics/information technology; maritime; land transport; health, social services; and other community, social and personal services.

Availment Requirements

Must be an active OWWA member (land-based or sea-based) or beneficiary/dependent of an active OWWA member
Must pass the TESDA qualifying examination or Multiple Aptitude Battery Test (MABT) on the program of choice
Have at least one (1) recorded membership contribution

Qualified beneficiaries/dependents

Child not older than 21 years old or spouse of a married OFW
Brother/sister not older than 21 years old of an unmarried OFW

Documentary Requirements

Accomplished application forms (2 sets)
1"x1" ID pictures (2 copies)
Form 137 / HS Report Card or Transcript of Records/ official copy of grades
Proof of OWWA Membership: official receipt of OWWA contribution / OFW E-Card
If a Member's beneficiary: proof of relationship to OWWA member (e.g. copy of marriage contract and/or birth certificate of both OFW and applicant- dependent duly certified by the Local Civil Registrar)

3. Seafarer's Upgrading Program (SUP)

The Seafarers' Upgrading Program is intended to provide OWWA-member seafarers job-related training in priority maritime courses identified by the Maritime Training Council. It is designed to upgrade the skills, and develop the expertise of Filipino seafarers in accordance with technological advancements and international maritime standards.

Beneficiaries under the SUP receive from OWWA financial assistance fro training costs, ranging from a minimum of P 1,200.00 to a maximum of P 7,500.00. These amounts are inclusive of meal and transportation allowances in the case of trainees referred to the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP).

Filipino seafarers who are active OWWA members may avail of the program. Beneficiaries may subsequently avail of the SUP after payment of three (3) additional membership contributions and if training is availed of within the prescribed period.

Course Offerings

All Filipino seafarers who are OWWA members are entitled to avail of the program once every three (3) contributions. Availment may be assured upon first (1st) payment. Documents required are:

Accomplished application form
Seamen's Identification and Record Book (SRIB)
Poof of OWWA Membership (OR Of contribution)
1"x1" photo (2 copies)
Latest residence certificate

4. DOLE-OWWA Tulay Microsoft Project

In partnership with Microsoft Philippines, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and OWWA launched Tulay or Bridge Education Program, which provides OFWs IT training and access to technology that will enable them and thei families to communicate through the internet.

The Tulay or Bridge Education Program is a part of Microsoft's Unlimited Potential (UP), a global initiative aimed at providing technology and skills for underserved individuals. OFWs and their families learn the basics of computer applications such as MS Word, Powerpoint, Excel as well as internet and e-mail use at the Community Technology Learning Centers (CTLC).

Through Tulay, the OWWA expects OFWs to gain IT skills that will enhance their work, thus increasing their value in the workplace. These new IT skills can further help them become more competitive in pursuing a career in the country upon their return.

The project also aims to address the primary issue of family disintegration. It is hoped that through the project, problems arising form OFWs' prolonged separation from their families will be greatly minimized and as it mitigates the social impact of being away from home because of the accessibility and ease of using technology to connect and communicate to loved ones at home.

The CTLCs being maintained and operated by DOLE-OWWA are located at the OWWA Central Office, OWWA Satellite Office in POEA, OWWA Regional Welfare Offices in La Union, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro. OWWA overseas posts with CTLCs are: Riyadh (KSA), Hong Kong, Taichung (Taiwan).

5. Tuloy-Aral Project

The Tuloy-Aral Project was launched last December 2004 with the objective of assisting the children of less fortunate former OFWs as well as other poor and needy elementary and high school children. The DOLE and the OWWA regional offices, with the assistance of DSWD, identify children of former OFWs needing financial assistance to send to school. The DSWD or DOLE/OWWA prepares a family profile that shall serve as the basis for the selection of the beneficiary.

The Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs) are tasked to promote and identify OFWs who are successful, financially stable and in good standing to act as prospective foster parents. OFW organizations may also volunteer to act as foster parents.

Identified foster parents are requested to provide a US $ 100.00 financial support per year to the child-beneficiary to enable him/her to continue his/her elementary or high school education. The amount will help cover for expenses such as books, school supplies, materials for projects, transportation, authorized school contributions, and allowance for the whole school year.

The OWWA Family Welfare Officers monitor eacg child's progress in school. The Tuloy-Aral project is nationwide in coverage as it is being replicated in each region of the country.

Copy pasted this from www.owwa.gov.ph.

Got Tagged!

2008-05-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I knew that I was tagged by Ate Yhen, melai, and ate watz the other day. But then I was so busy daydreaming (lol!!) so i didn't bother doing it. But now that my mind's back on earth, I realize that this is so much fun...heheh! So here it goes..

Rules:
1. Mention the person who tagged you and create a link back to them.
2. Copy-paste the traits for all the twelve months (see below).
3. Pick your month of birth.
4. Highlight the traits that apply to you.
5. Tag 12 people and let them know by visiting their blogs and leaving a comment for them.
6. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve done it!

***won't tag anyone cause it seems like everybody's been tagged...so i'll just do the rule #4...*grin*

The Months and Traits

JANUARY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Ambitious and serious. Loves to teach and be taught. Always looking at people’s flaws and weaknesses. Likes to criticize. Hardworking and productive. Smart, neat and organized. Sensitive and has deep thoughts. Knows how to make others happy. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Rather reserved. Highly attentive. Resistant to illnesses but prone to colds. Romantic but has difficulties expressing love. Loves children. Loyal. Has great social abilities yet easily jealous. Very stubborn and money cautious.

FEBRUARY: Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexy. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest and loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizes dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.

MARCH: Attractive personality. Affectionate. Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Loves to serve others. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Observant and assesses others.Revengeful! Loves to dream and fantasize. Loves traveling. Loves attention. Hasty decisions in choosing partners. Loves home decors. Musically talented. Loves special things. Moody.

APRIL: Active and dynamic. Decisive and hasty but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people’s problems. Brave and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Emotional. Aggressive. Hasty. Good memory. Moving. Motivates oneself and others. Sickness usually of the head and chest. Sexy in a way that only their lover can see.

MAY: Stubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High spirited. Spendthrift.

JUNE: Thinks far with vision. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating, tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Able to show character. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Brand conscious. Executive. Stubborn.

JULY: Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people’s feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. Dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. No difficulties in studying. Loves to be alone. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Likes to be quiet. Homely person. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Prone to having stomach and dieting problems. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.

AUGUST: Poor resistance against illnesses. Loves to joke. Attractive (lolz). Suave and caring. Brave and fearless. Firm and has leadership qualities. Knows how to console others. Takes high pride in oneself. Too generous and egoistic. Thirsty for praises. Extraordinary spirit. Easily angered. Angry when provoked. Easily jealous. Observant. Careful and cautious (not at all times). Thinks quickly. Independent thoughts. Loves to lead and to be led. Loves to dream. Talented in the arts, music and defense. Sensitive (sometimes) but (not) petty (haha).Learns to relax. Hasty and trusty. Romantic. Loving and caring. Loves to make friends.

SEPTEMBER: Suave and compromising. Careful, cautious and organized. Likes to point out people’s mistakes. Likes to criticize. Stubborn. Quiet but able to talk well. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal but not always honest. Does work well. Very confident. Sensitive. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Must control oneself when criticizing. Able to motivate oneself. Understanding. Fun to be around. Secretive. Loves leisure and traveling. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Very choosy, especially in relationships. Systematic.

OCTOBER: Loves to chat. Loves those who loves them. Loves to take things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn’t pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily. Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not care of what others think. Emotional. Decisive. Strong clairvoyance. Loves to travel, the arts and literature. Touchy and easily jealous. Concerned. Loves outdoors. Just and fair. Spendthrift. Easily influenced. Easily loses confidence. Loves children.

NOVEMBER: Has a lot of ideas. Difficult to fathom. Thinks forward. Unique and brilliant. Extraordinary ideas. Sharp thinking. Fine and strong clairvoyance. Can become good doctors. Dynamic in personality. Secretive. Inquisitive. Knows how to dig secrets. Always thinking. Less talkative but amiable. Brave and generous. Patient. Stubborn and hard-hearted. If there is a will, there is a way. Determined. Never give up. Hardly becomes angry unless provoked. Loves to be alone. Thinks differently from others. Sharp-minded. Motivates oneself. Does not appreciate praises. High-spirited. Well-built and tough. Deep love and emotions. Romantic. Uncertain in relationships. Homely. Hardworking. High abilities. Trustworthy. Honest and keeps secrets. Not able to control emotions. Unpredictable.

DECEMBER: Loyal and generous. Sexy (lol). Patriotic. Active in games and interactions. Impatient (very much) and hasty. Ambitious (uhuh). Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Loves to socialize (with select people). Loves praises (of course). Loves attention. Loves to be loved (who doesn't). Honest (i'd like to believe i am, heheh) and trustworthy. Not pretending (though often misunderstood). Short tempered. Changing personality(in short, my topak). Not egotistic. Take high pride in oneself (yeah). Hates restrictions. Loves to joke (which are at times nakakapikon, heheh). Good sense of humor. Logical.

Isang Pagpupugay

2008-05-09T18:48:00.000-07:00

Nuong nakaraang buwan, nabasa ko ang stat msg ng isa sa mga katrabaho ko. Ang sabi "Remembering Cris." Akala ko ay kung sino lalo pa't Cris din ang pangalan ko. Sabi ko, sino kaya itong Cris. Hangang sa nito lamang nakaraang araw ay napadaan ako sa blog ni Kuya Homar. Habang binabasa ko ito'y napukaw ang aking interes ng isa sa kanyang mga post na tungkol kay Cris Hugo. Lalo akong napa-isip. Ang sabi ko, sino ba itong taong ito at mukhang napaka-importante niya. Doon ay natagpuan ko ang isang link sa isang artikulong sinulat mismo ng isa sa mga malalapit na tao ky Cris Hugo...at napag-alaman ko nga kung sino ang taong ito.

Hanggang sa pagsulat ko ng artikulong ito ay mangiyak-ngiyak pa din ako. Isa pala siyang kapwa ko Bicolano na pinaslang ng mga taong walang ibang alam kundi ang gumawa ng maiitim na bagay para sa sarili nilang interes. Hindi ko man siya personal na kilala ay sobrang sama sa loob ko na malaman na may mga taong nakakayang pumatay ng taong walang kalaban-laban. Sa isip ko'y napaka-bata pa niya para mamatay at napakarami pa sana niyang magagawa. Kasing-gulang ko lamang siya at nakakatawa man ay magkasing laki din lang kami.

Habang nagninilaynilay ako'y pumasok sa aking isipan ang tungkol sa isang estudyante sa Bicol University (BU) na pinatay dalawang taon na ang nakalilipas. Naaalala ko pa iyong mga coupon-bond size na itim at puting poster na nagsasabing "Justice for Cris" na lagi kong nakikita sa may tapat ng BU. Oo, siya pala yung aktibistang pinaslang noon.

Nuong pumotok ang balita tungkol sa kanyang pagkamatay ay naikwento ko ang pangyayaring iyon sa aking ama. Tandang-tanda ko pa kung paano niya ako (at ang aking mga kapatid) pinagsabihan na huwag na huwag sasali sa mga rally o makakaliwang kilusan. Ito ay dahil sa posibilidad na mangyari ang katulad na insidente. Kapag nangyari daw ito saamin ay baka hindi niya matantya ang kanyang mga hakbangin laban sa mga taong may kagagawan ng ganitong bagay. Siya man daw ay matagal nang hindi nagugustuhan ang palakad ng sistema sa Pilipinas. Ngunit nananatili siyang tahimik para sa katiwasayan ng aming pamilya. Mataas kasi ang pangarap ng aking ama para sa amin.

Pero habang binabasa ko ang tungkol kay Cris Hugo ay para bang may malaking bahagi ng aking pagkatao na nagsasabing kailangan kong kumilos at manindigan. Hindi na tama ang lalo pang lumolobong bilang ng mga aktibistang pinapatay. Ang hindi ko maintidihan ay bakit kailingan pa silang paslangin. Sa tingin ko'y maliban sa pagiging bukas sa pagsasabi ng mga hindi magagandang bagay tungkol sa lipunan at panawagan sa pagbabago ay wala namang magagawang bayolenteng bagay ang mga aktibistang tulad ni Cris. Bakit ang isang napaka-batang tulad niya ay ikinababahala pa nila na umabot pa sa pagpaslang sa kanya. Ganoon na ba kasama ang mga tao ngayon? Hindi ko matanggap sa aking puso't isipan na may mga taong nakakatulog ng mahimbing pagkatapos nilang magpakawala ng balang tumapos sa magandang kinabukasan ng isang napaka-batang walang ibang hinangad kundi ang kabutihan ng nakararami.

Para sa mga naging biktima ng political killing sa Pilipinas at maging sa iba't ibang panig ng mundo...saludo ako sainyo. Naway dumating ang panahon na mabigyan ng katarungan ang inyong pagkamatay. Higit pa man, sana'y may patunguhan ang inyong prinsipyong pinaglaban. Nais kong malaman niyo na ako'y kaisa niyo. Pagpalain sana kayo ng Maykapal.

Coping on the Changes

2008-05-02T23:00:00.000-07:00

Ohhh..I wish I could just lie down and sleep like this woman...tomorrow's weekend yet I can't see myself lying on the couch and enjoying my rest day. There's just so many things to do yet there's so little time.

Of course, there's no one to blame. It's just that I just miss those days when I could just lie down on the sofa and enjoy a day of DVD marathon. Obviously, those days are gone. I'm no longer a student...no longer a kid...and so, I'm expected to be a better person, daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, grandchild, friend, and girlfriend (not to mention the pressure of being an employee never gets out of my thoughts). Phhhewwwww! Yes, I would have to attend to those roles this weekend...hooohhhhhh...just thinking about it already makes me feel exhausted. Nevertheless, I'm happy being with these people. They are the few people in this world who matter to me.

Hottest Magz Online

2008-05-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

^{Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com}

My Love Test

2008-04-28T22:36:00.000-07:00

When I get so bored with my job, I search the internet for "getting to know myself" quizzes. Here are a few results:

Cris, you're fit to commit because you know what you want

You don't need us to tell you that you're on the right track. A cool and confident person, you know what you want; now it's just a matter of finding it. Even more important, you know that love is about much more than what kind of clothes they wear or car they drive. And you're ready to make it work.

You've gotten to a place where you are happy with your life, and you're ready to share it with someone special. So whether you've found them or are still looking, know that this time, you'll get what you want.
[wow, this is so much like me...lol]

Cris, you're looking for a Soul Mate

Who needs a fling when what you want is the whole fairytale: long walks on the beach, up-all-night conversations, and watching sunrises/sunsets in each other's arms. You're probably a picky dater who doesn't connect with just anyone. Sure a strong intellectual streak, loyalty, and a great sense of humor are terrific selling points. But if your dates can't savor romance like you do, it might be the perfect match you're dreaming of. You're hoping to find your other half, that one person who can finish your sentences, someone who really 'gets' your inner emotions. And until you find them, you probably don't mind flying solo every now and then. That's because deep down, you know that being with the wrong someone is just an obstacle to being with your one-and-only. So even as you're reading this and thinking about how to find them, know that somewhere out there, they're probably wondering the same about you. It's just a matter of time.
[This is exactly me...I'm a picky dater and I'd rather be alone that go with someone that I don't like. Whoever wrote this just came up with the perfect combination of words to describe me.lol!]
You are a Hopeless romantic
Do you swoon when a guy recites poetry to you? Go ga-ga over a bouquet of hand-picked wildflowers? Then there's no doubt about it — you're a textbook Hopeless Romantic. Chances are you love soft music, candlelight, and long walks on the beach at sunset. Crying at sappy movies (your favorite kind) is a given — a box of tissues is a must — and you've have had your wedding planned since grade school. You're looking for a deep relationship — a soulmate. Traditional and sympathetic, guys love that they can open up to you and talk to you about their feelings, their past, and their hopes for the future. How can a suitor win your heart? By romancing you. Sending you flowers, surprising you with a picnic lunch, or going for a horse-drawn carriage ride. Before you know it, you'll be creating a life-long love story.
[LOL! This really made me laugh!lol! I may be a hopeless romantic but I utterly hate that "Francisco Balagtas" type who'd recite poetry to me...I won't even go ga-ga over those hand-picked flower...I have never planned my wedding coz it's far from my plans in life..."You're looking for a deep relationship — a soulmate. Traditional and sympathetic, guys love that they can open up to you and talk to you about their feelings, their past, and their hopes for the future." - that's the only part that fits me.heheh]
Cris, your romantic pattern is Mentor and the Protégé!

The Mentor and the Protégé is a romantic pattern that's about more than love for love's sake. In it, love grows out of deeper need to learn and understand other aspects of your life through the teachings of someone else.
But, here's the recurring pattern you may see in your relationships: Love isn't the only thing you're after.

You want power, success, attention, maybe even fame. You want to be recognized, doted on, and adored for your talents. And the object of your desire is the person best suited to provide you with these things — a boss, a mentor, a teacher, or a troubled genius.

Similarly, the object of your affection can take the place of an absent parent or role model, providing security and nurturance. Whatever the reason, you're likely to feel a boost to your self-image when you're with this person.

Just as this romantic pattern overpowers you, you might wish to be overpowered by someone stronger, wiser, and more accomplished than yourself. Your romantic pattern starts out innocently enough. Did you recently take a job working for an amazing boss? Has a teacher or mentor taken a special interest in your work? Maybe a long-time family friend stopped by for a visit, and revealed a fascinating side you've never seen before. The attention this person gives you is just what you're craving. From there, it's not a huge leap to falling in love.

In "My Fair Lady" a bet to train a poor woman in the ways of high society blossoms into romance. An older gent tumbles head over heels for a much younger woman in "Gigi." When secretary Tess McGill (played by Melanie Griffith) finds out her boss has stolen her idea in the movie "Working Girl," she gets revenge not only by taking her boss's place but stealing her beau. Bridget Jones has an affair with her boss, and in "The Graduate" Benjamin Braddock is sleeping with the wife of his father's boss. Sometimes these affairs work out; sometimes they don't. But the familiarity of this classic pattern itself is what brings them to life. You undoubtedly have seen yourself in some of these entertainments.
[Somehow this is true...especially the "more than love for love's sake...love grows out of deeper need to learn and understand other aspects of life through the teachings of someone else...wish to be overpowered by someone stronger, wiser, and more accomplished than yourself" Insecure guys make me feel uncomfortable in the long run.]

Took the test here web.tickle.com.

still, my first love...

2008-04-26T00:48:00.000-07:00

It's been almost four years, and still it hunts me. Every time I think that I'm over it, I find myself drowning again on the illusions of the past...and yes, for some time I feel this hope that one day the hands of fate will bring us back together.

I have uttered all the good words in every way that I can to tell people, and most especially to myself, that I have ended it...that what we had was a part of the past, which should remain in the past. Yet when I see myself in the mirror, when I see myself in my dreams, a picture of his smile is still the one that flashes before my very eyes.

Yes, I am sincerely happy for him for he has finally found someone...and maybe she's the one. But how foolish it is, being happy for someone who has found his love while there you are, loving him in silence, loving him with a tear in your heart.

Now that I am with another man, I should learn to leave his memories, our memories, behind and live with what I have right now. But how can cupid play with my heart that just when I thought this was over, he made me realize that it never was...never is...and, perhaps, never would be.

How Fast Can You Type?

2008-04-25T02:37:00.000-07:00

Can you type as fast as 100 words per minute?

100 words

Speedtest

lol...the truth is I only got 46/min...imagine? Poor little girl...heheh! Anyway, i'll practice my typing more so the next time I take such speedtest, I'd get better score...lol

Hear it from a "Buhay na Saksi"

2008-04-22T00:45:00.000-07:00

I was browsing through the internet when the excitement for the next OWWA Scholar's conference this coming May etched my mind again. I thought of looking for the friends that I've met during the past conferences in the internet (hoping to find their blogs, etc). But then I came across a posted e-mail about a 22-year-old anak ng OFW pouring her disappointment over the scholarship...it seemed to me that she has doubts on the sincerity of the administration in giving away the scholarship to the OFW dependents.

Let me point out some issues that she raised.

I discovered that OWWA, according to its new Omnibus Policies, only provides 100 slots for aspiring scholars.

....The scholarship is limited since it could not accommodate the number of OFW dependents that we have. Remember that 60, 000/student makes it 6million pesos of expenses a year. And yearly, another bunch of 100 scholars would add to this...so, limiting the education to a 4-year term, 24million pesos yearly is for scholarship alone. Not to mention this is not the only thing that the departments spends for.

The OWWA scholarship only covers the youth who are not more than 21 years old. It’s basically useless to apply since I’ll be turning 22 this year. Is it my fault that I only learned about this scholarship benefit only now?

...If your parent is an OWWA member then she is expected to visit the office every once in a while to know of the organization's update, right? Just a thought.

Yet it seems to me that the OWWA scholarship does not want to show itself to the OFW beneficiaries. For what reason? I could only speculate.

...I, as a scholar, have witnessed the concern that the administration have given us, the anak ng OFW scholars. If they wanted to hide this scholarship in the closet, they should not have gotten 100/year scholars from all over the Philippine archipelago. They should not have let us enjoy the privileges and importance that only us have experienced. If you're thinking that there's something behind this, let me tell you that this is not like what you think. I'm a simple seaman dependent, my family knows nobody in the administration yet I qualified and enjoyed its privileges.

Another thing that bothered me upon reading the provisions was that I noticed that the process was too complicated and exhausting.

...Have you heard of "No pain no gain?" Have you found a-DOST scholarship qualifier that did not submit the intricate requirements and the thorny exams? Besides, how will the admin know that you are worth the efforts that they are to offer you if you did not pass the test? After all, that's what makes one different from the rest...that's what you call "screening."

Fine, after having done all the prerequisites, I’d probably expect to get into college the next school year—given that I have passed the stringent processes and examinations. Then, OWWA informs you through a letter or God knows what, stating that you are not qualified!

...If you belong to the upper 100 passers, submitted all the necessary requirements...what's the reason why you won't qualify? Application on a scholarship grant is like applying to be admitted in a good university, submit all the papers, do your best to pass the test, and hope for the best...but never expect, remember that you are always competing with a thousand sharks in the open.

Considering the incessant tuition fee increases and the skyrocketing prices of basic goods and services plus the Arroyo administrations unjust new taxes, the allotted budget is not enough to cover the quality education that we deserve.

...We have been working out to let the admin know of this grievance...and we are hoping to know the answer on the next conference.

Then, it came to a point that the student is unable to finish her course for whatever reasons. The OWWA Omnibus Policies states that the student will be ‘compelled’ to reimburse the total amount spent by OWWA in financing the scholarship. Let’s say that you are in your third year and you suddenly have to drop out. It simply means that you have to pay back the amount spent, from your first year in college until the third level. Is this fair?

...OWWA is very considerate, you'll know it when you are a scholar...this is not a problem that you should bother yourself with...take it from a scholar like me.

But before you react on my response to those, let me tell you that I am an EDSP (Education for Development Program Scholarship) grantee who have enjoyed a number of benefits from OWWA. As far as I know, EDSP is not mandated by the constitution unlike CMWSP. In short, this is plainly the efforts of OWWA together with the concerned sectors.

I have been a scholar from the time I entered college until I graduated just recently. To tell you the truth, being an OWWA scholar is so much fun...with this, you'll find a new home, new set of friends, and new and exciting experiences. We have summer conferences at different beautiful spots in the Philippines which does not just make us closer and make us better leaders/individuals but also give us the chance to express our grievances...and the good thing is we see the results. It's true that there are some problems with the admin, but which organization doesn't have?

About my Template

2008-04-22T00:03:00.000-07:00

I was looking for a cute template which would best speak of myself. Then I found this sexy naked girl...it's not that I'm a pervert or so(hehe), I just love the way she explains the real me. She's full of emotions from within and wants to let the world know of it. It's like she's filled with love, passion, and even sadness and sorrow...she's like a walking castle of emotions. What made me like this even more is that the color itself is so plain and simple. Yet, it does not necessarily mean that it's dull or lifeless. The gray color even puts more dept on it...it's like a complete paradox of extremely overwhelming emotions and simple setting.

Is There Worse Than Worst?

2008-03-14T06:33:00.000-07:00

They say, if you've reached the top, there's no where else to go but to the bottom, when you've had you're best then it's time for the worse...but what if you've been having nothing but the lowest points? Could there be worse than worst?

It's just sad that while people are fighting for power, fame, wealth and other earthly stuffs, others are just thirsting for PEACE OF MIND...something that is very simple yet never given to them. These people who aim for more than what they need, what they deserve, are still getting it...while those people who ask only for what they need are never given even just a single piece of it. How can life be so cruel to the better ones while still cradling the unworthies...maybe the earth is really "earthly"...and it's really a pity...

Well, I'm not saying that these people are damn good, what I'm saying here is that...how costly is peace of mind? Why is it that it's s hard to get them? Why do some people have to suffer because of other's mistakes. Why can't they just leave them alone...with a simple and quiet living? Why is life always at its worst when it comes to people like them????

I'm Sorry...hope you can read this

2008-03-06T20:09:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, my colleague, Ate Lani, told me how shocked she was to hear about her friend who was said to commit suicide that very day. At that point in time, I felt sad even if I don't really know who her friend was...the news wasn't even confirmed.

Just earlier, another colleague of mine, Melai, asked me if I have read Ate Lani's blog...what I was thinking was far different from what I read today. It was about this friend that she told me a couple of weeks ago who committed suicide. I never really asked her before if the story was true that's why it's just today that I was able to confirm.

I pity this guy, her friend. Though I wasn't able to meet him, I feel like I knew him so much...and as I read his writing I realized how helpless he was living in a world full of wickedness...he's just an innocent young man, battling against a battalion of what he called "blood-hungry" people, whose only armor is LOVE for PEACE, JUSTICE and FAITHFULNESS. His frustrations in the world led him to letting go of his own life...frustrations which are not even greedy, not evil..

I admit, there were many times when I come to think of the same things that he was thinking (not the suicide thingy...just the real situation of the world...the unfairness, the wickedness of the people)...the only thing that keeps me living is the faith that I have that everything has purpose...that somewhere, somehow, I'd realize every thing's worth...that I should let God rule over my weaknesses...that one day, everything will just be as good as heaven...

I know, at times I'm also one of those whom he hated...but I'll try never to be such anymore...God Bless....

Click here to read the article that he wrote.

I Wanna Go Home

2008-03-05T21:35:00.000-08:00

For the past 21 years that I've lived, many times, I have felt to be badly down physically, spiritually and most often, emotionally. It really sucks when you're just so aware of something wrong, shameful and degrading that you've done. Most of the time, this happens to me...and I just wanna find somewhere else where I could hide myself from the world (like in a dark corner) so that nobody could see that I'm crying...that I'm hurt...so that the world can no longer reach me, and hurt me... This is the reason why I feel so much for those who have committed suicide...or something close to that... Of course that's a big no no for me, but...just imagining the emotional torture that they've been through for them to be forced to end it all, it really sucks.

When I'm feeling as bad as the way that I'm feeling right now, I write it down...in a piece of paper and hide it in my closet so that no one can read it...or, I just imagine myself that I'm in a happy situation like being a Hollywood celebrity, rich young lady, a great achiever...something like that. Somehow it soothes the pain...but if you were to ask me what first comes into my mind, the first thing that I usually say to myself (and hoping that I could say to some one else) is I WANNA GO HOME...just like now...I wanna go home...='(

the politics

2008-02-26T16:08:00.000-08:00

I usually don't wanna talk about politics especially Philippine politics...maybe because i believe i can never change a thing considering the worsening situation. But the truth is, like all the others, i've got my own view point as well that one way or the other i wanna share with people.

Lately, people has once again been triggered by the ZTE scam...rally here and there, chaotic senate hearing, frenzied press, etc. While a big number of people, political groups and even religious sects call for Her Excellency's resignation, i say, a safe number of more than half of the populace remains quiet about the issue and choose not to get involved...i'm one of those, hehe!

But if you were to ask me, i don't wanna count myself as one of those who want a new president. I've always been supportive of all the elected officials because i believe that somehow they have the capability to do the job. The only thing that i want for the moment is...everybody, forget about the greed. Admit it or not, at the back of your mind you all want "something". So, what makes you think you're any different from the president or the congressmen that you call evil? We all know this, corruption exists even from the lowest positions in the government.

The challenge for the president now, and even future leaders, is...if you can't kill the corruption that eats the entire Filipino nation, then let someone else do. But if you think you can, then do it well. It's all in your hands.

in my opinion

2008-02-25T16:55:00.000-08:00

The first time i accidentally read the headline " Chine Eats Crow Over Faked Photo of Rare Antelope" i was really intrigued and at the same time felt so disappointed with the country (as how it was referred to on the headline). Who wouldn't especially considering the state that China is on today? So i read the entire news...realized the carelessness of the authorities who gave the award to the photographer. But above all, i saw that the picture was indeed sublime, a complete depiction of a perfect harmony of nature and technology...it's even better than perfect! (the picture shown herewith is the exact photo that i am referring to - a high-end $4 billion railway going to Tibet). But the unearthed truth of the faked photo has awaken me of the impossibility of such scene...how frustrating.

Mr. Weiqing Liu, the photographer of the said scene, was condemned by a lot of co-photographers and other critics for falsifying and deceiving the people...yes, he committed an unforgivable sin in the journalism world. Forgery is a total no no on anything. On the other hand, let's look not into his offense but on how he showed humility on the issue. He has said his apology and resigned from his much loved career...FYI, he's been known for his dedication on his job. What i'm trying to say here is that, we don't really know his motives...you may say that it isn't that easy to forgive such wrongdoing (considering its massive extent), and yes the motive may not justify what has been done...but try to look beyond, life is not just about that...i think he and even everybody has learned his lesson and that's what matters...i don't know, maybe i just believe too much in the word "FORGIVENESS".

oh my...

2008-02-25T00:52:00.000-08:00

where can i buy "proper concentration" coz i feel like i'm losing mine..oohhhh geez..this is my biggest weakness. got a lot of work and school stuff to do yet i can't do a thing! if only for this, I TOTALLY HATE MYSELF!!! it badly consumes me...does this sickness got a cure? heeeeeelllllpppp!!!!

hi there

2008-02-23T01:52:00.000-08:00

I've known blogs for quite some time and I've truly enjoyed reading others' journal but this is the first time that I've made myself one. The truth is I've long wanted to have this but things just don't permit me...so here I am now, enjoying the first-time kicks of this experience(haha! what a shame.)

2008-02-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

lately, things have gone like a roller coaster in my life, from a childish little teenage, I've suddenly had to be a woman...well, i can't tell you everything that's goin' on but believe me, this is 180° different from who i was just a couple of years ago. maybe time has been running faster than i thought...or maybe, i'm holding too much of the thought of being a kid.