Tropang Sawi

By: Ren Coruejo

Tara na't Pakinggan,
Kaming mga nasaktan,
Kami'y magpapakilala lng nman,

Ako nga Pala si "Patpat"
Iyon ang tawag nila sa tulad kong Payat,
Minsan nang pinakilig ng taong di tapat,
Ginawang mundo ang taong di karapatdapat,
Nabulag sa pag ibig na inakalang sapat,
Sinisi ang sarili sa katawang buto't balat
Ngayon puso ko'y tila nalowbat
Dahil sa panloloko ng taong Huwad.

Ngayo'y ako naman ang mkikipagkwentuhan,
Ako nga pala si Repob, Pobre ang kabaliktaran,
Minsan ding nahumaling sa gandang kumikinang,
Nasilaw at naakit sa babaeng buwang,
Kinutya, pinagtaksilan, pinagpalit sa Mayaman,
Paghihirap at sakit tiniis na lamang,
Sarili tinanong, Ang pagiging mahirap ba'y isang Kasalanan?

Tama na ang mga salaysay aking mga Tropa,
Ako nman ngayon ang mgpapakilala,
Pangalan ko'y Negrita iyon ang tawag nila,
Umibig sa Lalaking may ibang sinisinta,
Nilalait, pinupuna, kulay kong di kaaya aya,
Tinutukso't binabato ng masasakit na salita,
Hindi mkatulog mula gabi hanggang umaga,
Sa kakaisip kung bakit siya pa,
Iniibig kong lalaki kasing ugali nila,
Ngayo'y natuto na,
Kadalasang ugali ng tao'y kabaliktaran ng itsura.

Labis na sakit na ang mga naririnig ko,
Ako'y pakinggan, estorya ko'y isaulo,
Wala sa Likod, dahil nasa harap nyo,
"Bekikang" iyan ang tawag sakin ng mga tao,
Bakletang mahilig sa matcho at gwapo,
Minsang naging seryoso sa lalaking siraulo,
Binigay ang lahat, maging ang buhay ko,
Binubugbog, pinerahan ng lalaking tarantado,
Sa ibang bakla'y nkipagtalik kapalit ng malaking premyo,
Mga inipon ko't pinaghirapa'y winaldas ng gago,
Mga plano kong binuo'y biglang naglaho,
Dahil sa isang lalaking manlolokong minuminuto,

Aking mga kaibigan, relax muna kayo diyan,
Talambuhay ko nman ang inyong pakinggan,
Ako pala si "Bobby" iyan ang aking Pangalan,
Kasalungat ng Patpat, Ako ay Malaman,
Sa Kusina'y napag iwanan,
Iyan ang bulong bulungan,
Hindi sa nagyayabang, kami'y may kaya din nman,
May negosyo't may ipagmamalaki aking kanunonunuan,
Minsan ding umibig nang walang alinlangan,
Sa isang babaeng akala ko'y pang walang hanggan,
Subalit nahuli kong may ibang kasintahan,
Napagtanto kong siya'y salawahan,
Isang araw siya'y sumulpot sa aking harapan,
Humingi ng tawad sa kanyang mga kasalanan,
Subalit sapat na ang aking mga nasaksihan,
Mga pera kong binigay ang lalaki ang nakinabang,
Kaya't ako'y hindi na magpapaloko kaninuman,

Ang mga naranasan niyo'y masaklap isipin,
Pahintulutan sanang estorya ko'y idagdag din,
Ako'y tinaguriang "Matalinong Matsing"
Dahil sa ilong kong bitin na bitin,
Matalino man, ngunit may kulang pa rin,
Dahil ang itsura ko'y isinumpa ng dilim,
Pinagdarasal ko laging ako ay mapansin,
Ng nililigawan kong kasing ganda ng bituin,
Oo nga't maraming humahanga sa angkin kong galing,
Ngunit hindi sa itsura kong walang bahid ng ningning,
Dumating ang panahon nung ako'y umamin,
Sa babaeng ako'y may tunay na pagtingin,
Pagsinta ko'y pinabatid ng mariin,
Sinamantala kahinaang maituturing,
Ako'y ginamit, relasyo'y nilihim
Pinagawa ang mga bagay na labag sa akin,
Isang araw ng ako'y dalhin,
Ng kapatid kong nag aalala sa akin,
Sa paarala'y nasaksihang may ibang kakissing scene,
Kaya napabulong na lng ako sa hangin,
Tama bang ito ang dapat kong sapitin?

Ang mga Kwento nami'y kapulutan ng aral,
Wag Maging bulag sa pagmamahal,
Puso'y isantabi, isip ang ipairal,
Kung noo'y nasktan ng pusong Brutal,
Ngayo'y matuto ka't wag maging hangal,
Kilatising mabuti mga taong kanal,
Puso'y di mawari sintigas ng bakal,
Sariling buhay mo'y wag isugal,
Sa mga taong may pusong mapanakal,
Ipabatid sa lahat Katapangang marangal,
Mapagsamantalang tao'y di dapat magtagal,
Sila'y di nararapat sa mundong Banal.

Why life begins at forty as they say

As the saying goes "life begins at 40" by people like me who reach the age forty, it suggests that after reaching this age, a person has a fresh start in life and can start anew with new experiences and opportunities. It's often seen as a time to reflect on one's life so far and set new goals for the future. I know that age is just a number, but many people find that hitting their 40s can bring a newfound sense of confidence and clarity, they are now focusing on what truly matters to them. Whether it's pursuing a new career, taking up a new hobby, or simply living life with more purpose and intention, the 40s can be a time to rediscover and reinvent oneself. For my 40th birthday, I want to a famous person that my hometown will be proud of me.

Being a famous person requires a lot of hard work, huge dedication, and a unique talent or skill. It's also helpful to have a clear personal brand, a strong online presence, and the ability to network and collaborate with others in entertainment industry. Additionally, I am considering to look for a mentor, have the time to take acting classes to further develop my skills and to gain knowledge from experienced professionals.

Above all, fame doesn't guarantee happiness, so I will make sure that pursue my passions for the right reasons. With God's help, I want to spend my next ten years in making my self famous at the right time.

It's 25th anniversary

Happy 25th birthday 🎂 to Google. 🤗

Google's 25th birthday marks a significant milestone for one of the most influential companies in the tech industry. Over the past quarter-century, Google has revolutionized the way we access information, connect with others, and navigate the digital landscape. From its humble beginnings as a search engine to its current status as a global powerhouse, Google's impact on society cannot be overstated.

In celebrating this anniversary, it's essential to reflect on Google's journey of innovation and adaptation. From introducing groundbreaking products like Gmail and Google Maps to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence with projects like Google Assistant, the company has consistently pushed the envelope in terms of technological advancement.

Beyond its technological achievements, Google has also made significant contributions to society through initiatives like Google.org, which focuses on using technology to address global challenges such as climate change, education, and healthcare. Additionally, Google's commitment to diversity and inclusion has helped foster a culture of creativity and collaboration within the company and beyond.

As Google looks ahead to the next 25 years and beyond, one thing is certain: its influence will continue to shape the future of technology, innovation, and society as a whole. Here's to another quarter-century of groundbreaking achievements and meaningful impact!

Theater acting

I embarked on my acting journey in July 2022, delving into various productions to explore the art of performance. Seeking to deepen my skills and immerse myself further in the craft, I made the decision to enroll in a Theater Arts class on August 19, 2023. Facilitated by PETA Inc., the class comprised eight enriching sessions aimed at refining my abilities in portraying diverse roles across stage plays, movies, series, and more.

For aspiring actors eager to embark on their own path, I wholeheartedly endorse the pursuit of formal training. Enrolling in a Theater Arts class not only provides a structured approach to learning the intricacies of acting but also serves as a cornerstone for developing a strong foundation in the art form. Through immersive experiences and expert guidance, such classes offer invaluable opportunities to hone one's craft and expand one's artistic horizons.

Undoubtedly, the study of theater arts offers a transformative journey, enriching individuals from myriad perspectives. Beyond honing artistic skills, it fosters a holistic growth mindset, nurturing capacities for collaboration, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication. Each session serves as a catalyst for personal and professional development, empowering actors to embrace the multifaceted nature of their craft with confidence and finesse.

As I reflect on my own experience, I am reminded of the profound impact that theater arts education has had on my journey as an actor. It has not only equipped me with the technical proficiency required for the stage but has also instilled within me a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling and the art of performance. I encourage aspiring actors to embrace the transformative potential of theater arts education, knowing that it serves as a gateway to a world of endless possibilities and personal growth.

Off-load avoidance this 2023

Reposting this from a Facebook group.

‼️𝐈𝐖𝐀𝐒 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐋𝐎𝐀𝐃 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣3️⃣‼️ 

Prepare all requirements! ⬇️⬇️⬇️ 

❓What are the 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬?

There are two levels of inspection for internationally-bound Filipinos, both conducted by an immigration officer (IO).

In primary inspection, passengers must present basic travel documents:

✅Passport, valid at least six months from the departure date;

✅Valid visa, depending on the destination;

✅ Boarding pass; and

✅ Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket, when necessary

❓What are the 𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬?

There are other documents a traveler may need to show to their IOs, which will vary depending on travel purpose, age, and other details.

Tourists

🙋🏻‍♀️Self-funded travels

1️⃣Proof of accommodation

2️⃣Document showing financial capacity or source of income, and 

3️⃣ Proof of employment

🙋 Sponsored travels

👩‍👦‍👦 Sponsored by 1st degree relatives (spouse, parents, or children) abroad

1️⃣Original Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-issued birth or marriage certificate

2️⃣Confirmed roundtrip ticket

Copies of sponsor’s:

3️⃣Valid passport

4️⃣Valid work visa/permit or an equivalent document

👯‍♀️Sponsored by other relatives abroad

1️⃣Notarized original Affidavit of Support and Guarantee (AOSG)

2️⃣Confirmed roundtrip ticket

3️⃣Original PSA-issued birth or marriage certificate

🙋🏼‍♂️Sponsored by an unrelated foreign national

1️⃣ Notarized original AOSG

2️⃣ Substantial proof of relationship

3️⃣ Confirmed roundtrip 

4️⃣ If a judicial entry, sponsor’s registration paper

🙋🏾‍♂️Traveling with an unrelated local sponsor

1️⃣Notarized original AOSG

2️⃣ Substantial proof of relationship

3️⃣ Copy of sponsor’s return ticket

❓Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

✅ OFWs departing for the first time 

1️⃣ Overseas employment certificate (OEC), or OFW Clearance issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)

2️⃣Valid and appropriate employment visa, work permit, or any equivalent document 

3️⃣ Employment contract

4️⃣ Visa Usage Undertaking, or Manpower Request specifying visa usage approved or verified by the DMW or Migrant Workers Office (MWO), if applicable

✅ Balik-Manggagawa (BM)

1️⃣Valid and appropriate employment visa, work permit, or any equivalent document

2️⃣OFW Clearance, OEC issued on-site by MWO or Migrant Workers Airport Assistance Center (DMW-MWAAC), or Online BM OEC Exemption, or manually issued OEC

3️⃣Proof of employment, as necessary

✅Direct hires

1️⃣ OEC, e-receipt, or valid OFW Clearance, and

2️⃣ Valid and appropriate employment visa, work permit, or any equivalent document

👦🏻 Minors

👩‍👦‍👦 With married parents, while the mother is accompanying

1️⃣Original Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-issued birth certificate or report of birth

👨‍👧‍👦 With married parents, while the mother is not accompanying

1️⃣ Original PSA-issued birth certificate or report of birth

2️⃣ Original PSA-issued marriage certificate

The following are scenarios where travel will require Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certificates of Clearance or Exemption:

✅ DSWD Travel Clearance Certificate (TCC), if:

    * The parents are unmarried and the minor’s mother is not traveling

    * The minor is accompanied by anyone other than their parents

    * The passenger is over 18 but unable to fully care or protect themselves because of a physical or mental disability or condition

    * The minor is above 13 years old and traveling alone (minors below 13 are prohibited from traveling alone

✅DSWD Certificate of Exemption from TCC, if:

    * The parents are unmarried and the minor is traveling with their biological father who has sole parental authority or legal custody over them

    * The companion is their legal guardian

    * Orphans of married parents traveling with substitute parent/s

    * Orphans of non-married parents and traveling with substitute parent/s or closest maternal relative

✅𝐎𝐅𝐖 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬, 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞

👨‍👧‍👦Dependent family members joining an OFW at the host country

1️⃣Valid dependent visa or any equivalent document, and

2️⃣Copies of the OFW’s valid visa and OEC, e-receipt, or OFW clearance

👩‍🎓Students under the International Student Affairs Program or Student Internship Abroad Program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

    * CHED endorsement

🧑‍🎓Students or scholars

    * Acceptance letter from the school or institution abroad

    * Duly notarized affidavit executed by the student or scholar indicating the educational institution, and the duration of the course or program of study

    * Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket consistent with the program duration, if practicable

    * Proof of financial capacity or scholarship

    * Endorsement from the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) for Arabic language scholars, if applicable

    * Certification from the school division superintendent for basic education students under an international exchange program, or joining a competition abroad

        * Minors under this category also need a DSWD Travel Clearance Certificate

🙋🏼‍♂️ Passengers with prospective employers abroad

    * Confirmed return or roundtrip ticket consistent with travel duration

    * Documents relevant to the purpose of travel, and

    * Duly notarized affidavit executed by the passenger indicating the purpose and duration of travel

🙋🏻‍♀️ Passengers traveling abroad for compassionate or humanitarian visit to an overseas Filipino

    * Certification from the DMW or the Department of Foreign Affairs specifying the purpose of travel

🙋 Passengers traveling for company transfers or trainings

    * Intra-company transferees

        * Proof of local employment, as certified by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)

        * Secondment agreement between the local company and foreign host company, as necessary

    * Intra- or inter-company trainees

        * Proof of local employment, as certified by the DOLE, and

        * Traineeship agreement authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate where the training will be conducted, as necessary

🙋🏾‍♂️Volunteer workers

    * Endorsement from the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency

* Hajj pilgrims to Mecca

    * Endorsement or list of pilgrims from the NCMF

* Donor traveling for organ donation or transplantation

    * Department of Health clearance approving the organ donation or transplantation

The following are passengers who may be required to present a CFO clearance:

* Filipino spouse, fiancé/e, or partner (described as someone who is in a “genuine” heterosexual or same-sex relationship) of a foreign national, with an immigrant, resident, spouse, long-term, partner, prospective marriage, family reunification visa, or other similar visas

* First-time Filipino emigrants and resident visa holders registering with the CFO for the first time

* J1 visa holders, or exchange visitors bound for the United States

* Au Pair visa holders

#ChriszysTravelTips #DiyTravelSg #DiytTravelSingapore

I'm entitled to my opinion

This is to re-post this good article to read from Facebook page Thinking Is Power.

DEFINITION AND EXPLANATION: It is true that everyone is (legally) entitled to their opinion. However, “I’m entitled to my opinion,” is often used to shield an unsupported position. And being entitled to your opinion doesn’t mean you’re right, or that anyone needs to take your opinion seriously.

There are several problems with this fallacy. 

1. An opinion doesn’t mean what they think it means. Opinions are subjective judgements or viewpoints. When someone claims they are “entitled to their opinion,” it’s often because they are trying to shield factually incorrect assertions.  

2. All opinions aren’t equal. Expert opinions are interpretations of evidence based on years of study and experience, and are significantly more robust and reliable than non-expert opinions. “I’m entitled to my opinion” suggests that their opinion is just as good as anyone else’s.

3. We should all be open to changing our minds if the evidence suggests we should. “I’m entitled to my opinion” is essentially an admission that they can’t justify their position… but yet they’re unwilling to entertain contradictory evidence or other points of view. 

In the face of facts that contradict a belief, especially one central to our identity or values, we use motivated reasoning to reduce the cognitive dissonance that arises when reality and our beliefs are in conflict. When that fails, our Get Out of Jail Free Card is to defend the belief by rendering it unfalsifiable and therefore immune to evidence. We move the goalposts. Discount sources or deny evidence. Proclaim that it’s our opinion.

It’s important to remember that the purpose of arguing isn’t to be right, it’s to get it right. “I’m entitled to my opinion” shuts down any further disagreement. We simply don’t want to be wrong.

HOW TO COUNTER: I tell my students on the first day of class that they are not entitled to their opinions. (At least not in class!) They are only entitled to what they can support with evidence. 

It’s a bit trickier in the “real world.” Remember that people are often unfamiliar with the basics of critical thinking, so they may not be used to having to support their positions with evidence. Consider explaining why “I’m entitled to my opinion” is fallacious, and the benefits of healthy disagreement. The best approach is probably to ask them why they hold this particular opinion, and why they think they’re “entitled” to it.

MORE ABOUT THIS AND OTHER FALLACIES: thinkingispower.com/logical-fallacies/

Support TIP on Patreon!: www.patreon.com/ThinkingIsPower

Scams in the local entertainment

I have been for so many various production companies. This is article is about my experience in the local entertainment industry. You name it: shorts, movies, series and shows.

How to spot scammers in the acting business? Let me provide you some tips.

1. Some productions collects payment. Just make sure you get official receipts the first time you pay. If not, that's a red flag. A legitimate acting workshop must be a business registered and that any money you pay should be issued an official receipts.
2. Others don't ask you to pay for anything and that's a pro-bono. It means there's no talent fee. That's fine for the sake of exposure to the public viewing. May it be on YouTube or Facebook. Just go for this. Change it to your experience.
3. Make sure that the production company you're thinking or planning to join has connections with people who are already in the industry. It is a must that the company should be able to produce a good set of setcards for your with a VTR and that you have a copy of these.
4. Since I have been for over  a year, make sure that they good camera not smartphones when shooting a scene for your project. Branded camera adds legitamcy of the production.
5. Regardless of gender or sex, if a talent scouts ask you to send nude photos, that's a no-no.

Having these things said, make sure to join Facebook groups about acting in the Philippines and do your research for these production companies. I have a list of them but I keep it a secret for me.