Best of Boracay

Here's a few snapshots from one of my favorite work assignments as of late.

It was a pretty indulgent trip. It would have been more enjoyable though if I didn't have that really bad diarrhea for the most part of my stay. It was horrible. It was so bad I barely slept one night. Shit was practically walking out of my asshole. But hey, I can't complain. At least it kept me from gaining weight.

Fun times.

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Hickey Horror

Well, I had an interesting weekend.

I hope you had a good one.

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New Guys, Old Ways

I'm afraid I may be slipping back to my old ways. See, I've been very, very, very careful the past year or so to the point of paranoia. But now that I've finished school and have some spare time after work, I find myself getting bored a lot. But more than boredom, I think it's about time I get over the paranoia and carefully get back in the circuit.

I've going back to the gym for past three weeks now, which is great, but it's also partly because I'd like to be more marketable, so to speak. I was looking really unhealthy about two months ago.

Anyway, I'm back in the game. I think. I want to go on dates and hang out but I haven't really met anyone that I want to be seeing regularly. Well, until last week.

The moment I first saw his profile (online, but of course), I knew there was something. I don't know. I just felt good about him. It wasn't until about a week later that we finally met. It was last Friday night. He looks exactly the same in person as he does in pictures--if not better. He's gentle, smart and nice so when he asked me for the second time that night to sleep over, I just couldn't say no. It was, I think, the happiest I've been, in an intimate way, in a seriously long time. It's that kind of intimacy that makes you dream, that gives you foresight. He snored like crazy, rendering me sleepless. Still, I woke that morning, on his shoulder, with a smile on my face, which lasted throughout that day.

Two nights later, I was back in his place. He was sick but it didn't matter. I just really wanted to see him, which pretty much meant I was fucked and not exactly in the way that I prefer. I was falling too fast, too soon. This time, he fell asleep on my shoulder. With his head next to mine, I endured another night of his heavy snoring. I was a zombie at work the following day.

It has been four days since we last saw each other and I'm almost 100% certain now that everything wasn't I was hoping it to be. I mean, if he was looking for something more worthwhile with me, I'd be there, in his arms and not here, pounding on my keyboard.

Ah, it's good/awful to be back.

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Graduation

Hello. I wish I could blog more often but I just have been too occupied lately. Twitter and Instagram are also to blame.

Anyway, I finally graduated yesterday. Yup, I've officially finished my master's degree. It didn't really sink in until I was there in PICC, taking part in the ceremonies. It feels amazing. I didn't cry but I was close.

As if graduating wasn't awesome enough, DLSU also won the UAAP championship game yesterday. I watched it in Chili's, Greenbelt with friends and many other La Sallians and a handful of UST supporters. It was so amazing. We were jumping and hugging each other during the winning moment.

Yesterday was truly one for the books. To God be the glory.

I hope I get to blog again soon. I miss it. In the meantime, I'm basking in the afterglow of victory.

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Yanis Marshall

I've been obsessed with this French choreographer's dance videos. He teaches dance in heels, and my gawd, is he good. I think Yanis Marshall and his crew can give Kazaky a run for their money.

Here are some of my favorites.

Ah-fucking-mazing.

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The Grindr Effect/Defect

Here's a thought-provoking video I found last night that reminded me of my recent vacation.

When you go to Boracay alone, especially if you're in your 20s and single, the expectation of people, and perhaps of yourself, is you'll meet someone, or some people, and go home with juicy stories for all your friends to giggle and laugh about. So when I got back from my recent vacation, it was no surprise that friends anticipated exciting (maybe even R-rated) stories from me. I think more than two people asked me if I had birthday sex. Sadly, I came home empty-handed.

Save for that incident when a guy kissed my ear while saying sorry for stepping on my slippers, my trip was pretty PG. I'm going to be lying if I said I didn't wish I had met someone but I'm also partly to blame. It was my choice to hang with my good, female friend from college for all the three nights I spent there, slimming down my chances of meeting someone. It was also my choice to dance up a storm instead of working my way around the bar and talking to prospects. But above everything else, I think my biggest deficiency or error, was not having Grindr. In fact, I don't even have mobile browsing right now because my Blackberry broke down a few weeks ago.

Apparently, the top gay scenesters have largely shifted to Grindr, which, I think, explains the poor selection left in Planet Romeo. I can personally attest to the latter as the profiles listed under Boracay were truly disappointing. My other friend, however, who was also visiting the island alone and who maintains a Grindr account, was on a roll, meeting multiple guys in one day, thanks to his iPhone. He even hooked up with that doctor I went on a date with earlier this year! He was swiping away half the time we were together, sun-bathing.

And it's not just Grindr anymore, apparently. The shift to mobile apps is further strengthened by newer similar applications such as Jack'd, Hornet and Bender, catering to today's savvy and adventurous gay guys.

I have no access to any of these apps at the moment and now, I can't help but feel like a second-class citizen of the gay world. I wondered what it would have been like had I had such convenience. That's when I realized what a difficult trick I would have been, having too many restrictions and conditions that most guys would probably not agree with. Somehow, I find slight relief in knowing that it never would have worked out.

This makes me long for the old days. By that I mean, the guys4men era with the simple, nondescript interface; a time when computers are left at home and bars are for dancing and for people who come up to each other without the help of any app.

So I didn't return with a hot, raunchy tale about how I met someone and did things I wouldn't want my family to know about but I can't say I didn't have a blast. Boracay just never disappoints. Besides, you don't need to be on vacation in a beautiful tropical island for those hanky panky stories, do you?

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27

So I am definitely not getting any younger. I am approaching my late twenties and long-gone are the days when I would give a fake, older age when talking to someone online.

I just got back in my room from another night of drinking and dancing. Didn't really meet anyone, which is sad. Then again, I have too many hang-ups right now, anyway, and I've been totally paranoid. Thus, I've totally dismissed the notion of going back to the clubs alone in the hopes of snagging a worthwhile trick. It's four fucking thirty.

I've spent my recent birthdays away from my family so I can't help but feel homesick. As much as I'd love to extend, maybe it's a good thing I'm leaving the island in less than 12 hours.

Here's to 27!

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Beach Bum

It was in 2010 when I first traveled alone to Boracay. Three years later, I'm back to the same situation. I was supposed to be here for both work and leisure but the former no longer applies so I'm dedicating my entire stay for sunning, eating and drinking--and my on my own dime, of course.

It would be nice to have some friends with me, but hey, I can't let the lack of company stop me from taking a vacation. Besides, one of my good friends from college works here so she can hang with me during the evening.

This afternoon, after lunch, I had the chance to re-read one of my favorite books on one of my favorite spots on the island.

I'm turning a year older in two days and once again, I'm in this tropical paradise to mark the occasion. That's something worth celebrating, alone or otherwise.

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Chef Arnold's

I'm a sucker for hidden neighborhood haunts so it was a treat to find this place just a few blocks from my place. The owner is a former seaman cook who decided to put up his own business a few years ago.

I recently discovered this gem online and I'm glad I finally got to drop by yesterday with my friend, M, who was looking for an apartment in my area. The place is carinderic, with the seats located right on the pavement but the star here is the food; the pizza, in particular.

We ordered the New Yorker and the crew immediately started kneading away. Each pizza is made only when an order is placed so it's fresh and hot all the time. The dough got a little too toasted, which was acknowledged by the chef's wife who had a chat with us for a bit, but we didn't mind it so much. It tasted good and fresh. I just wish they would change the cheese topping as it tasted like cheap cheddar. Then again, for P170, I shouldn't complain.

This is the leftover slice (that I took home) after reheating.

Aside from the pizza, we also tried the pasta bolognese, which was cradled by a tortilla bowl. I definitely didn't expect that from a whole-in-the-hole joint. It was good and well worth the P80.

We only ordered two dishes plus two bottles of Tropicana and I still got to bring home a doggie bag with the following day's dinner.

I even like the hot sauce; not too hot and not the watery type. This one's a little lumpy. Made from scratch, perhaps?

If you live in Mandaluyong or happen to be in the area, try Chef Arnold's. It's along San Rafael Street, near the Sta. Ana Street area. They also deliver within the vicinity.

It's places like this that really make me glad I live here--aside from the fact that our area is largely much, flood-free, of course.

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Sights From The #MillionPeopleMarch

Yesterday, National Heroes' Day, will go down in history as the time when Filipinos from all walks of life gathered to fight the system and remind those in power that we have had enough.

Personally, I wasn't really sure whether to go or not until I convinced my friend, Erin, to come along. So off we went the following day, dressed in white with not much idea what to expect. The turn-out was good despite the drizzle, which made the grounds muddy and a bitch to walk on. Georgina Wilson, Belle Daza and Raymond Guttierrez didn't seem to mind. Neither did DJ Manolet Dario.

We also spotted some personalities from the fashion set like Amina Aranaz-Alunan and Jujiin Samonte with partner Paulo Castro.

Here's Erin trying to steal a shot of the young priests.

Even our aeta brothers and sisters want the pork barrel system abolished. They were also present and in full native clothing, bahag and all.

At some point, the whole spectacle felt like third world Coachella with this blaring from the speakers.

It's inspiring how everyone, rich and poor, gay and straight, gathered, but the event could have used some more organization. There were moments when we literally had no idea what else to do aside from flail our fists in the air, yell the chant and sign the petition.

Nonetheless, it was a memorable experience. I'm not the type to usually to take to the streets but I'm glad to have joined this movement.

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Rainy Daze

How are you holding up?

It has been three days of crazy raining and it's supposed to continue up to tomorrow. This weather is absolutely insane. At about 4am today, I woke up to the roaring of thunder. It was a terrifying combo of thunder, lightning and heavy rain, which was simply impossible to ignore. I was actually scared lightning would hit inside the house. It was so bad I was literally under my comforter (it's that cold too) and I couldn't go back to sleep so I decided to check on the house. Good thing we're on the second floor.

I feel real lucky to be home, safe, dry and with Internet connection while people out there are practically fighting for their lives. Some people, on the other hand, are busy trying to hook up. I get it. I understand how the warmth of another body would be soothing during these times but I think I'll settle for my comforter for now, and maybe another Italian/Spanish movie like the one below.

How about you?

Hold tight and stay safe.

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Conclusions

Ok, that has been the longest time that I have not blogged. There were moments when I'd feel guilty about it but then I'd be reminded of my thesis and everything else that needed to be accomplished, I'd realize I better prioritize wisely.

But now I'm back and I'm happy to report I pretty much did well. I have some revisions to do but I'm hoping there won't be any major problems with my paper anymore. That defense yesterday was insane, though. I was ripped to shreds. The words "It seems you passed your defense..." still resonate within my being up to this moment.

Anyway, this thesis has brought out the best and worst out of everything. It brought out rashes, literal headaches and other bodily ailments, but it has also exposed the best in people, especially my family and friends. It's pretty awesome how everybody helped.

But it's not all good news today. To put it bluntly, I no longer have a job. I didn't get fired or anything. It's just an unfortunate reality that we at the office have to face. Gawd, I'm going to miss being editor of that publication. But I think I'm done crying about that.

My birthday's coming up! That's something to be chippy about. I guess.

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Issues

One moment I was worrying about losing a tooth, then I'm thinking I have cancer the next. That's pretty much how I've been lately. Let me tell you, Googling can both save and ruin your life.

It's so hard being me right now. I'm stressed out over my thesis and as if that's not enough, I have been going to doctors left and right. Today, I went to a neurologist because of these headaches/dizziness I've been having. It's mentally, physically and financially draining me out. Seriously. Right now, I just really want to be with my mom. But that's going to have to wait. My thesis is due in less than a month and I'm so behind at this point it ain't funny at all. By the way, in case you don't mind helping, please click here. :)

I can't wait to get out of this.

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Brillo Breakfast

This morning, we were supposed to go to Laguna. But that got cancelled. We planned on having breakfast at Tagaytay instead. That also got cancelled during ungodly hours this morning. It's disappointing because I really wanted to take a breather and enjoy the weekend away from the city even for just a few hours but there's really nothing I could do. Well, I could have gone alone but, nah.

What I did do, instead, was cook breakfast at home, which means skipping this week's thesis consultation. The situation presented a great opportunity to try what I picked up at the supermarket last night; a new, local, premium corned beef brand called Brillo. At around P130, it's less expensive than Delimondo by P30. I love Delimondo so I couldn't wait to find out if this one's at par with what I've always regarded as the original, locally produced, premium corned beef.

Instead of adding cubed potatoes, I decided to use the marble type instead and cooked them separately--in butter and some seasoning of course.

The actual Brillo corned beef looked fine, I observed, upon opening the can. I like that it doesn't appear mashed so the texture is great. The shreds are intact but easy to chew. There was also just about enough juice and fat. As for the taste, it's not bad at all but it's a little too salty for me. I would say it's a good alternative in case Delimondo is not available. One can serves two or even three. I wonder if Brillo plans on coming out with other variants the way Delimondo did.

Breakfast was yummy and satisfying but I still want to go to Tagaytay.

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Get Lucky

I love Daft Punk. I love Pharrell. But this is something else. And the guy, George Barnett, is cute. I love the spunk, the passion, the energy, the John Mayer-esque, uglyfying facial expressions.



Not crazy about the siren sound effect because it reminds of ABS-CBN's Showtime but that's just me. I'm obsessed with this video.

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State of Confusion

First of all, I hate that I don't get to blog as much anymore. But it's because I've been really busy, both because of the crazy workload in the office and the demands of school. Speaking of the latter, it has been bothering me so much as of late that I think I've been sinking into depression. It's evident with the amount of food in my fridge.

I am proud to report that I have successfully completed the academic requirements of my degree. But there's one more fucking hurdle that I need to go through; the thesis. The defense is scheduled to occur this August 10 and I have barely started. Seriously. My Introduction is in a state of disarray. It was gunned down by my mentor this weekend and I don't know if I can fix it on time. I'm really not sure if I could finish this whole thing before the defense. The good thing is, I haven't enrolled yet. I've been seriously considering filing residency for a term but it was never really the plan, especially since my whole family has been expecting me to finish school by the end of this term. But more than anyone else, it's me who cannot wait to conclude my grad school stint. I just don't know how to do that right what with all that's going on. The last day of enrollment is this Saturday and I have until then to decide. There's not a day that I don't have this mental battle within myself. It makes sense to skip a term but the pressure and my own pride are pushing me to just dive in and get it over with--granted of course that I finish my paper on time.

So yeah, it's been driving me to the edge, this thesis dilemma. In fact, I went to the ER last Monday to have my throat checked because it has been sore and the pain was killing me. It seems stress has started to take its toll on my health.

There's just so much to do and being sick is the last thing I need. Like right now, I should be doing that damn paper, but I'm not, so until my next meltdown next time.

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Little Bites

It was our friend Nikki who introduced these bite-size, red velvet crinkles to us when she gave them as gifts last December. Since then, my friends and I have been big fans of Little Bites. It's one of those home-based businesses born out of passion or boredom or both that turn into popular sensations in the city. This one's owner is Charmaine Niduaza or Cham, who is based in Las Piñas or somewhere in the north. I personally have not tried her cupcakes but if they're anything like her red velvet crinkles, then they must be spectacular!

Each little pair of wine-hued crinkles, embracing a cream cheese center of white, sweet frosting, hits the right spot--not too sweet but nothing bland either. It's really one of those things that will leave you longing for one more until there's none left. And no, I'm not being paid to say that. I wish.

One microwavable container is priced at P100 only but it's the delivery charge that may cost you a little. We had our order delivered to Resorts World last Friday and the charge was P180, which is actually still not bad especially if you're ordering a lot (we did). I got two and I was thinking of bringing one to the office but I recently changed my mind.

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How I Found My New Love

I was stalking a guy on my way to Rustan's to try on Native shoes for our then upcoming photo shoot at the beach when I ended up in this small store in Glorietta. I have been desperately looking for sandals or "mandals" for some time now but I realized I needed something that can withstand the elements, especially once the rainy season comes in so the leather ones at Zara were out of the question. For the lack of better choices, I was down to Native's boat shoes and some very basic flipflops at Aldo.

We were on separate escalators going opposite directions when I caught a glimpse of the buff guy. While he wasn't exactly my type, my compulsive stalking did lead me to this.

As always, this pair was out of my budget (neither did I wear them to our shoot) but I thought the purchase would be worth it. They look durable and since they appear to be a cross between sandals and shoes, it's really like hitting two birds with one cash withdrawal. I actually find them weird but I think it makes them more interesting, like conversation pieces. Come to think of it, that's also pretty much the kind of guy I've been drawn towards.

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Mr. Movie Date

Right from the start, I already had an inkling that it wouldn't work. This is why it took  me almost a month to finally send him a text. His immediate response was, "Hi. Horny?". Not what I was hoping for but I can't say I wasn't tempted. Surprisingly, that exchange of messages didn't lead to me being a trick but a future date.

That date was last night. Before we could finalize the plan of meeting up, he was very clear about his disinterest towards effeminate guys. This was understandable. I told him honestly about where I place in the scale and sent pictures. "See you Friday :)," he said, sealing the deal.

I knew yesterday was going to be a physically taxing day at work so I brought an extra shirt. Casual Friday started with a teal tee with a nice glittery print in front. For the date, I brought out this nice, navy 5cm shirt that I must have worn only five times (or less) since I got it about four years ago. It's special like that. It also has a less casual feel, which made it more appropriate for the occasion.

One of my favorite shirts.

After changing into my second look in the men's room, I proceeded to the cinemas where he had been waiting. I walked towards him hoping everything turns out fine. He looked good. But he may have lied about his age. I don't know. His profile says 32 but he actually looked a tad older, maybe 37? In any case, he appeared fit and neat. What struck me later on was his resemblance to The Chef; from the looks to the manner of speaking! It's was 2009 all over again except there wasn't as much chemistry last night. No affection, no naughtiness. no intimacy. He was stiff in a way that I don't like. Or he just was not interested.

It was apparent that the disparity didn't stop with age. The choice of activity itself was off.  As he had suggested, we watched Iron Man 3.Watching a movie on a first date? Not a good idea if you're really aiming to get to know each other. We didn't even eat after the movie. He was nice enough to drive me home, though. It was during that ride when it became even clearer that there's just nothing there. What's good was we both handled it decently, I think, like two civilized individuals who respect each other. We talked about his chihuahua, our respective jobs, hometowns and families--chunks of silent moments in between. It's safe to assume the pleasantries we uttered before I shut the car door were the last words we would hear from each other.

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Baler Beach Break

This weekend was pretty epic. I had many firsts in a matter of 30 hours or so.

A few weeks ago, what was a bagnet-fueled conversation ended with a plan to go to Baler.  It's one of those spur-of-the-moment things, which we didn't really make a fuss about but materialized anyway.

I have to say, I wasn't really that excited because I've never tried surfing and I didn't think I would enjoy it. Also, Baler is not exactly as scenic as Boracay or even Batangas.

True enough, the beach didn't seem spectacular but there's something captivating about it. It actually reminds me of the beach we have in my hometown--its's probably the black sand.

We arrived at our resort very early so the room, naturally, wasn't ready yet. We decided to tour around town to kill time. The waves weren't good at that time anyway.

One of the highlights for me was when visited this approximately 400-year-old balete tree. It looked really creepy but also intriguing. I was surprised when this teen asked me if I'd like to climb it and he was offering to guide me. I was apprehensive what with all the mysterious tales attached to balete trees. But curiosity and an odd sense of adventure prevailed.

It definitely was not an easy climb. I literally had to squeeze myself into branches. But it was fun and rewarding. I'm so glad I did it.

After the balete tree visit, we went to Ditumabo Falls. We weren't briefed properly. I didn't know we had to trek for about an hour to reach it. The way up was rough and quite treacherous for untrained mountaineers like ourselves. But my, my, was it worth it. The sight of the water crashing down from several feet to form a crystal-clear pool at the bottom was majestic. It wasn't part of the plan but we couldn't help but take a dip in the ice-cold water. The girls had to swim in their shirts, which was unfortunate. How "provincial", I thought. :)

What followed our Dimatubo Falls experience was not exactly as scenic but definitely planned and needed and vital; a heavy, shameless buffet lunch at this inexpensive joint called Gerry Shan's. It was pretty decent at only P185  per head.

We were ready to go home after our little feast but the driver had a different idea. He brought us to Ermita Hill, much to the chagrin of our surf-hungry friend. It was nice and pretty but nothing breathtaking if you ask me.

Unfortunately, the waves still weren't as sizable as we were wishing for that afternoon. I decided to postpone my first surfing lesson to the following day. It turned out to be a good idea as the sea gave better swells the next morning.

Can I just say, getting to stand up on a surfboard, riding the waves gave me a sort of I've never had before. It was an awesome experience. It was my first time and I'm hoping it's not my last.

After learning how to surf, I took time to take in the scenery.

I decided to leave the girls who had extended their lessons and walked back to the resort. On my way, I was stopped by this interesting scene. Curious, I walked closer to and observed the local way of life unfold before me. It was pretty charming--touching, even.

It was a short trip and it was far from luxurious. There were a lot of mishaps (mostly involving our accommodation) that could have ruined this weekend but I'm glad none of those dampened our spirits. My entire back is burning at this very moment and my body still hasn't recovered from the physical stress of this trip but my gawd, was it all worth it.

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