Happiness Overload with the Theme Y.O.L.O. — You Only Live Once

It was last February of this year when we had our Educational tour in Manila. And it was also my very first time experience to travel on a plane alone going to Manila because I was not able to include myself in the group booking. I felt anxious about it but at the very day I realized it was so fun to travel alone. I feel independent and cool.

Our six-day tour to Manila, Tagaytay and Bagiuo tour was indeed educational, very fun and exciting. Every day of the tour is a day to look forward to. During the first two days we were in Manila we went to the House of the Senate, House of the Representatives, Supreme Court and to the National Economic Authority Development (NEDA).

On the next day, we went to Tagaytay where the very famous Taal volcano is located. It was definitely a breathe taking picturesque to look on. After that, we immediately went to Enchanted Kingdom it should be one of my most favourite part in the itinerary of the whole tour, however, I was really disappointed because I was not able to experience all the extreme rides because it was Saturday that day and there were a lot of people in the amusement park. Then, I just comforted and told myself that I shall return.

The following day, we were in Bagiuo. They had their Panagbenga and Flower festival that time. The climate was really cold but later on my body temperature was able to adapt the cold. I actually even missed the cold environment in Bagiuo right now. We went to a lot of places in Bagiuo like the Philippine Military Academy, Mine’s view, and took a picture from outside of the Mansion. However, I was not able to go in Burnham Park due to some emergencies but I did not actually feel sorry about it because again I told myself I shall return. 

The next day we were still in Bagiuo. We went to the Bell Church and then we were in La Trinidad’s Strawberry farm. The view in the farm was really nice and of course we bought our own strawberry pasalubongs. Fresh strawberries smells really sweet but it actually tastes a bit sour yet it was still very delightful. On the same day in the afternoon, we had to travel back to Manila for our last day tour.

Our last tour was in Ocean Park but before that we had our side tour in Intramuros. The place really looks old and historical but it was still a nice place to visit. After then, we went to another very historical and famous site in Manila which is in Luneta or Rizal Park. After then we went to Ocean Park wherein a lot of different kinds of fishes, maybe big or small, are displayed. The place is really wonderful and very suitable for fish lovers. After that, we finally had our last stop in the SM Mall of Asia for our lunch. We stayed there while waiting for our flight schedules. While I, on the other hand, took about two hours in the line just to buy that J.Co doughnuts. Obviously it was very tiring but since it was coming from my dear cousin’s favor I had no choice of course. 

All my experiences, I can say were worth it. I really had fun and I wished to return and visit again those places we’ve been too and by that time it should be with my entire family. And at exactly four in the afternoon we had to finally go to the airport. By that time I already have a lot of classmates with the same flight so I need not to worry anymore.

Well, I really love traveling perhaps maybe soon or next time in the future I could get to travel a lot to places where I have been dreaming to visit. But I would want my travel to start here in the Philippines of course. My next stop dream place to visit actually is in Palawan.And  I am really wishing to spend my summer vacation there!

xxx

Formal Letter to the President

Cebu, City

Philippines

March 15, 2014

The Honorable Benigno S. Aquino III

President of the Republic of the Philippines

New Executive Building

Malacanang Palace Compund

J. P. Laurel St., San Miguel

Manila, Philippines

Dear President Aquino:

I am Ma. Katrina Amarillento a student from a University here in Cebu studying Political Science. I am writing to tell you what I would want to change in our country’s society. I just observed in our society that most of the rich people get more and more while in the contrary most of the poor people becomes the same as what they. I just wonder if you can do something in making more or less equalized the status of mostly if not all of the citizens in our country.

As I can see in the present, the society is experiencing disparities and deficiencies. This is very visible in the case between the rich and the poor wherein such issue have escalated to a higher degree. This is a social reality to everyone and a very crucial societal situation as well. This I believe may be traced back from the capitalist and the communist system which sparked the beginning of social structure in the community. Yet, because of the numerous events that happened and are happening now, this issue is usually taken for granted and is not being fully addressed. Hence, this must be recognized fully and be treated as well. Thus, there should be something done between the relationship among the labourer and the owner, perhaps an improvement of benefits. Labourers are very important in the production and also in every country’s economy. Thus, it is best for the authority to take good care of them especially for those who are greatly oppressed and chooses to remain silent symbolising a powerless capacity. I just wish to at least speak for them in behalf and let their rights be heard. Most importantly I am wishing that you could address this one.

Thank you very much for the great effort in your public service.

Respectfully yours,

Ma. Katrina P. Amarillento

+639 223 812 144

mk.amarillento@gmail.com

Is it Goodbye for K-Dramas?

Korean dramas have successfully flourished in the Philippines. Even I myself watch Korean dramas a lot. Most of their shows have definitely captured the hearts of the young Filipinos and even some young at heart Filipinos as well. Even my grandmother watches these kinds of show. Seemingly, I really cannot conclude what makes everyone get hooked or some, addicted to it. But perhaps I could guess. Well, in my case, I just find their characters really good looking and then I just find myself imagining what it feels to be in the shoes of the female main character – then smile. Daydreaming like this and the good looking characters could be some of the valid reasons I believe. I have actually seen few dramas thus, I have even included below some of my very own all-time favorite Korean drama series below. v ^__^

As I would remember, it all started with ABS-CBN network’s late afternoon show Meteor Garden. I can still remember how all the youngster at that time hurries to come home after school hoping never just to miss a single episode of this show. But even before these Asian dramas prevailed in the country’s media, there were even some other foreign shows, like Maria Mercedes, Rosalinda, Marimar, and the like being aired. Asianovelas in the Philippines have long been occupying some time slots in most of the major television networks in the country. This large adaptation even made some networks create their very own version inspired from some of these dramas.

This sudden domination of foreign dramas has greatly influenced all the minds of the Filipinos. It may eventually create implications in the way we think, our fashion tastes and even our actions. The effects are very influential especially amongst the minds of the teens. It was then until Congressman Lito Atienza (the former Manila mayor) filed last, February of this year, a bill regarding the limitation of the airing of foreign telenovelas to non-primetime hours. Thus, means to say from six to ten in the evening TV networks should air only original Filipino productions for television. It is actually stated in Section 3 of the House Bill No. 3839, “a suspension of entry of foreign teleserye. It is hereby provided that foreign teleseryes during primetime be banned by the public telecommunications entity concerned.” Apparently, this bill will cause a lot of reactions among those die-hard foreign especially Korean drama addicts.

However, if I were to be asked and give some opinions I should allow an approval on it. It is actually for the benefit of the Filipino entertainment. Moreover, the bill only states regulation on the airing of the foreign dramas for only four hours in a day. Thus, there’s nothing to worry much about because there are still a lot of timeslots for these foreign dramas to be moved and inserted in. In addition to, this will also allow extra income to our very own entertainment producers. Most importantly, the bill is a matter of patriotism to our very own television shows and entertainment for as I have observed most youngsters imitate their styles and trends. Thus, these are actually a contemporary type of imperialism in a specific aspect. This in a way, serves as a reminder of what we really are and our capacity of coming up with a worthy quality type of shows and may even more showcase the talents of our very own Filipino artists. Moreover, this will help to remind us that we should love our own. Seemingly, since we have an easy access to the internet, Korean shows can still be seen online through streaming or even by downloading it. In a way, these dramas are viewed way better continuously and without the five-minute commercial disturbances. Therefore, I cannot see anything wrong with the bill as long as it will not violate the right of an individual in practicing his or her right for freedom.

“Waiting is a sign of true love and patience. Anyone can say I love you but not everyone can wait and prove it’s true.”

Love per se is the greatest gift of all. But how far can one go for love? Nobody really knows when the right time comes, for love is actually a matter of time, patience and faith. Genuine love is measured through sacrifices and taking risks. But true love can also be examined with patience. In the present day, most youth take for granted the meaning of true love. Love cannot be seen immediately by one’s physical appearances and capabilities. What if you actually do not like his or her personality? Love is a matter of acceptance to that person’s value as a whole. Most of the instances nowadays, a lot of relationships do not last long. Most even only last for a very short period of time and only a few number of relationships actually survives. It is because most of us confuse love with infatuation. They immediately fall in love with the outer aspect of an individual without considering who that person really is. Many are victims of being blinded with these sets of physical attributes. Hence, it is important to know him or her better and deeper before. It is actually a step by step evaluation for a more effective relationship.

True love is a matter of waiting for the right time. It takes a lot of patience and faith in His plans. Some relationships also experience letting go and making sacrifices. Letting go of the person you truly love is an evident sign of true love towards that object of affection. But only those who have strong and selfless hearts are capable of doing such. It is also a manifestation of strong belief that if that person is really meant for you, you will really end up finding each other. If it then happens, I personally congratulate you. It is only then a realization that you two inevitably belong with each other and that the best for the both of you is yet to come.

Getting to Know @mariakatqueen Better

Quick Info J

Hello! My name is Kat, but for documentation purposes, it’s Ma. Katrina Pimentel Amarillento. I am in the middle and the only rose among the four thorns. I was born on the eight day of May 1993. I am a Roman Catholic and a proud Filipino. I am also very pleased to tell you that I live in Dalaguete, Cebu, southern part of the province of Cebu. Actually, our town is called the Vegetable Basket of Cebu and we annually celebrate during fiesta our very own Utanon (vegetable) Festival.

I am slightly fair-skinned. I normally have a long and wavy hair but only except when I get my hair rebonded for some special occasions. I am five (plus) feet tall. Mostly, I feel comfortable wearing bigger sized shirts especially when I am at home. My clothing statements depend on my mood. Sometimes, I act boy like and definitely am not the constant very girly, social girl type. But don’t worry I am always on the go!

I Love <3

I am very adventurous and very ready to take challenges that appear to be so exciting for me. I love to eat and sleep. I am also open-minded and really an optimistic type of person. I am imaginative and creative. I am God-fearing and very family oriented – “Family first.” I am fabulous (sometimes). My favorite color is red and I enjoy online shopping. I also like Hello Kitty stuffs because I find her very cute, cuddly and attractive. I remember a guy friend told me at first that I look very serious, strict and intimidating but seriously I am super friendly and cheerful. I am interested in books like mythologies, adventures, informational and science-fictions.

There are some aspects when I am hard to please. I am shy, however, I am doing my very best to overcome it. I can handle money very well but never had I and never will I accept a treasurer’s role because I have questionable skills in math. I mean I know how to budget but I honestly get confused in calculating figures especially when letters are added on it. Rather, I would remember myself before being always elected as secretary in the class. Well, falling in love with math is definitely the thing I will forever cherish.

Definitely, I am a music lover. Acoustic music, I truly love Juris Fernandez, a previous vocalist from the MYMP band, Yeng Constantino and soul siren Nina. When I’m in the mood for jamming I listen to rock music usually from Red Hot Chilli Pepper and My Chemical Romance. When I want to chill down and relax I listen to any known reggae songs or back to classical and golden oldie songs. Yes, I sing a lot. I also know how to dance. I also know how to play a few musical instruments. Music is evidently my passion. I also tried doing some song covers before. I remember joining some singing competitions before but unfortunately I never championed. However, all the experiences were worth keeping for and it gives me more lessons to learn from it and improve from it as well. 

Someday, soon…

I really and always dream of traveling around the world. I love to travel. I want to own a big dog, St. Bernard or Huskies perhaps. I want to be a singer-songwriter. I also wished on doing some volunteering missions to organizations like Red-Cross and maybe establish my own foundation for the old people someday.

What I Hate?

Well as for now, I hate insensitive and immature people. And as always--cockroaches!

xxx