master-ryu

Arigato, Irwin-san!

2006-09-07T12:41:00.000+08:00

If I would ever make a list of my top inspirations for my life, the list would probably be short, concise, but varied. There's Shigeru Miyamoto whose creative genius emphasizes simplicity in video game design. There's comedian Jay Leno who never fails to deliver big laughs night after night. Count also Anthony Bourdain and Rokusaburo Michiba, two maverick chefs whose cooking skills I will never be able to match. On the industry of film and criticism, who could possibly neglect Roger Ebert--the undoubted demigod of his craft. And then there's Hayao Miyazaki, master of animation and head honcho at Studio Ghibli.

I could be forgetting a few others, but I could never forget to list Steve "The Crocodile Hunter" Irwin, the Australian naturalist and conservationalist who died in a tragic marine accident last Sept. 4, 2006.

He was a great inspiration, for lack of a more ornate description. He really was. He was the source of my love of and interest for animals, be they cute or ferocious, furry or scaly, big or small. To me, his greatest contribution to mankind was making us realize that for all our problems, for all our weaknesses, and for all our evils, deep down in our hearts, we are capable of much, much better things.

I'm sorry that your life here in this world was short. But what it lacked in length, it more than made up in substance. Thank you very much, mate!

I love this poem

2006-08-31T09:32:00.000+08:00

I want to blog but I just can't

There's too little time that I can spend

All my chance I fail to use

My problem now I have no muse

So it's as if I am a bum

Merely master of my own free time

Ideas enter but they do not stay

So when I type I lose my way

To all my friends who read this blog

I apologize for being a snob

But to all of you I make this pledge

I swear to God I'll kick the hedge

Open my mind is what I'll do

And stare at girls 'till I am blue

So fear not because I'm back

Now excuse me I have to hit the sack

Post-College Night

2006-07-20T14:48:00.000+08:00

We planned to go to Tagaytay after the College Night: Time. We were supposed to sample the delights of Mushroom Burger and the Starbucks of Tagaytay Starbucks. But, since Moc and Sachie were with us, Shao's van couldn't quite handle our combined weight.

So instead we went to the very far and fine eating establishment called Tropical Hut in BF. What a road trip! There Jennie planned for Tats to have a "Burger FEst", as she calls it, in the future wherein we would experiment on just how many burgers Tats can eat in one sitting. That's to be discussed. So stay tuned!

Post-World Cup

2006-07-20T14:39:00.000+08:00

France lost. Italy won. Zidane headbutted someone. Story of the night.

But the fun side of it was that we were all rooting for France, but when Italy was winning, we were rooting for them. And when Italy won it, we all did our best in singing "We are the Champions" in support of the huge Italian delegation amongst the crowd. Shameful, I tell you.

And so the four year wait for the 2010 South Africa World Cup begins. Hopefully, by that time, we'd all have more money in our hands to get better (and more) food.

ROd is 20! aww...

2006-07-20T14:20:00.000+08:00

It might be hard to believe, but Rod Steven O. Vasquez (the bald dude on the extreme left. the cute girl is jam abrenica, his girlfriend) has turned 20. He is now on his way to becoming a millionaire by age 25...or not.

But never you mind that. Money's not important. The important thing is that Rod celebrated his birthday by having a drinking, gambling, smoking, failing-to-set-the-gear-shift-on-neutral-before-ignition (more on this later) bash! What a night!

Poker was the name of the night but some of the guys preferred to play "99". Good thing for us in the poker table because we were the ones still standing normally by the end of the whole party--everyone else had it in them.

And, before I forget, let me share the neutral thingy I was talking about earlier. You see, we were about to leave in Rod's van (me, Jam, Sachie, Moc, and driver Rod) when Rod got out of the car to say goodbye to the other peeps. He told Jam to start the car saying that it was in neutral (the gear shift). Turns out it was in 1st GEAR and that made the van move forward. Having no driver onboard, the van proceeded to push on, sliding down the not-so-steep road. As the van nearly had a close encounter with a electric post, I decided to jump towards the driver seat (cue Power Rangers music) hoping to be a hero. But being the car ignoramus that I am, I yelled: 'Where's the brake!!!???". Somebody shouted, "Gitna!", and the rest as they say is history. Whew!

But that didn't tarnish the occasion -- as a matter of fact that "incident" will be a source of many future barkada conversations. Most probably, though, at the expense of the bald dude who just turned 20. Happy bday Bokis!

ARGH!

2006-07-09T15:54:00.000+08:00

Been unable to log in to the web for such a long time now. It felt like I've missed so much. Anyhows, I'm back and...I don't really have much time because I'm writing this while a price counter is ticking fast in a Netopia branch.

College Night: Time went on with just a few hitches yesterday. It was fun! Hoho. Undoubtedly the best production of the SSC-CoL yet. Most of the performances rocked, especially Shao's band and the funny videos.

Didn't get to see much of the crowd, though. Was too busy runnin' around makin' sure everything went as smooth as possible. There was a weird moment during the transition to the 90's if you could remember. Some 5 men (myself included) paraded, model-like, towards the mini-stage at the center to the tune of an obscure Michael Jackson music. That was an impromptu thingy. Yup. Impromptu. So don't ask.

Fun night yesterday and I'm sure tonight will be no different. We'll be watching Superman Returns in just a while and then at 4 am we'll go to San Mig Pub to watch the World Cup final between France and Italy. I'll be rooting for France because I'm symphatetic to the great Zinedine Zidane who will be retiring from the great sport after this match.

Too bad about the Japanese team. And too bad that Hidetoshi Nakata, our country's greatest ever player, decided to call it quits at a very young age of 29. We'll miss him. Now bring on the world basketball championships in Japan! (coming this august!)

***And congrats sa BSBA group--2nd runner up sa video production contest sa college night. Haha. Galing ni rod and JRF! Booyah! COngrats din k tats--best actor!

Passing through walls

2006-05-31T20:28:00.000+08:00

Oh, yeah. I never had so much fun watching a bad movie. X-Men 3: The Last Stand I simply couldn't stand--good thing that the most gorgeous celebrity these eyes has ever laid its sights on was on-screen. Ellen Page aka Shadowcat or Kitty Pryde.

Oooohh. Joratio is only mildly attracted to her and Wally snubs her like an insect, but they don't have good eyes, you see--mine sees as clear as a crystal.

Never had I wanted to go to another country more desperately than now. I wanna go to Canada (her hometown)! *Sob*

Too bad Ben Foster (the guy who played Angel in X3) is rumored to be dating Ellen. Lucky bastard. I'll kick his ass.

Oooohhh. Ellen Page...

Samurai Blue 2006

2006-05-31T20:17:00.000+08:00

This is it. It's only a little over one week until the whole world watches closely as the whole world plays. Fifa World Cup 2006 in Germany is finally upon us, and coming June 9, 2006, time may indeed stop.

This is Japan's third consecutive World Cup, with the first effort in France '98 ending without a win for Japan, and with the second effort in Korea/Japan giving a Final Round of 16 appearance.

With about a dozen of Japan's Germany roster currently playing or have played in various European leagues such as the Italian Serie A, English Premiership, and most of all, the La Liga Espanola, Japan seems poised for a real chance at bettering its previous Cup appearance.

Our first match is against Australia, followed by Croatia, and finally against reigning World Champions Brazil. We're ranked 18 in the world, I hope we that the Samurai Blue Nippon team show the world that we can do better than that.

Polar Opposites Make For A Crackling Good Time

2006-05-10T00:18:00.000+08:00

This is weird: After a gloomy 2 hour experience watching Edward Norton's American History X, a story about a white supremacist and his sudden change of heart after a brief incarceration, I watched a Korean romantic comedy that females all over Southville have been talking about for ages. I talk about My Sassy Girl, of course, which co-star my long-time crush Jun Ji-hyun who I had no idea was in this film (otherwise, I'd have watched this film a looooong time ago).

Now, I say that this is weird because while I'll give a serious 5 out of 5 to American History X, I dare say that it's an inferior film to My Sassy Girl. And while a film like My Sassy Girl will never be nominated for an Oscar, it'll probably rate higher in my Favorite Films of All time list (if I ever make one) than the other film of comparison.

Without discussing anything concrete about the film (translation: I'm lazy!), My Sassy Girl not only feature one of the most beautiful girl this Japanese eyes had ever laid its sights on, it's practically the single most charming film I've ever seen.

So, while I'd like to have a lengthy discussion with my macho peers concerning the whats and hows and other hooplas of American History X, I'd really rather spend time with the Southville females and gloat over how cute My Sassy Girl is.

Prep for Operation Dominion

2006-05-08T04:33:00.000+08:00

Slacking off day and night during summer is nice and all but there's only so much heat one can take (darn...e..lec...tric....fan....somebody...). So, getting psyched for next (last?) school year has been the modus operandi lately. Ah, I can just see it--the all day slacking off at the base camp. Oh, wait, sorry, I just said that wasn't the plan.

In that spirit, I present to all my SISC buddies Operation Dominion. I've yet to construct what I expect to be a pretty hefty final docu (and I probably never will) but the rough of the plan is to take over all essential systems of Southville. From the food, to the air, to the girls, to the teachers, to the garbage cans, to the newspapers, to the computers--we'll take control!

What's the purpose? MWAHAHAHA! To serve my dastardly and maniacal evil genius, of course!

So, people of the Alpha Phi Culallic/Sister's Burger/White Team/Lords of the College Cafe, prepare for the final challenge! The point of ascension is at the fingertips of our clan. All hail the mighty Reuel Vernon Culalic --sacred leader and supreme grandmaster-- he who hast saved us from the fiery inferno of Mount Doom!

*** Of course, opening school day will most likely result in non-commencement of whatever plan and just boil down to all-day, every man for himself, chick hunting ***

Now Playing - Pinoy Big Brother: Kim Edition

2006-05-05T00:11:00.000+08:00

I critized it, I lambasted it, I poked fun at it (in numerous occasions, and I might add, with a mighty dose of satisfaction each time). I'm talking about ABS-CBN's Pinoy Big Brother.

But as much as I sincerely hated the first two iterations of this show, I can't seem to get enough of the latest--Teen Edition. It's not really that the show has 'improved'--it hasn't. The show's premise of a dozen or so 'housemates' stuck in a communal house, with menial tasks from here to there, has largely remained the same. So, what has convinced my usually rock-hard critical two cents to do a 180? One word: Yaks!

And to those not yet bitten by the Big Brother bug, yaks is the oh-so-cute one-time expression (she hasn't repeated it...darn) of Chinese cutie Kim during that time when kuya ordered her to sing a Chinese song, which unbeknownst to her was being simultaneously broadcast to the whole house (see, I'm watching the show).

Ok, ok. A complete reversal of thought just because of one cute girl (but she's so darn cute!) may seem illogical, beyond reason, or downright immature. Well, the truth is that my basic opinion fo the show remains the same. After all, I don't usually enjoy reality-based programming. And I especially detest constant outflux of emotions (which the show has an unhealthy amount of). In fact, since this is an all-teen edition, the frustration factor is at many times unbearable. If I was in that house (which I wish I was--seriously!), I don't think that that the word restraint would be in my vocabulary. I'd have given many of the characters a serious talking-to. Although I realize that they're still teens and that maybe I was just like them sissy-pants when I was their age, so I may be overreacting.

But the truth is that I watch this show everyday, in all its many versions (the primetime one, the uplate one, the before noon one. Are there other versions?), and I might just see this through right to the very end. Well, as long as Kim doesn't get evicted.

This author realizes that many years from now, when the author has settled down and finally gets married (???), and when all picturesque memories of Kim has faded (though, probably not), that he may kick himself in the arse several times over and be as red as a rose in embarassment for ever having written this piece. But until that time, happy reading.

some comments

2006-05-03T01:20:00.000+08:00

Caution: prior reading of joratio nuyda's recent post required (see links).

Narrative comments are a bitch to write (especially at this unholy an hour and at this mind condition--game euphoria/distraught). So, bite-sized shenanigans, instead. Here goes:

KH2: fun game. but not when your darn copy is not working properly.

edward norton: great actor. haven't seen american history x so I'd have to give the best job nod to kingdom of heaven (that voice still gives me the creeps)

crash: best film ever.

Silent hill: I loved all four games (creepiest game series ever…creepier than norton’s voice-over work for KoH). The recent film? My official two cents goes like this: “The most faithful game-to-movie adaptation ever; “Delivers a terrific audio-visual tour-de-force”; Painfully, the second part destroys the wondrous, and quite miraculous (considering that this is a videogame film) quality of the film’s first hour.” So, there.

Tatos: food. Girls. Sleep. And. Oh. Star. Wars. And. Of. Course. Mariah. Carey.

Cutest damn thing ever

2006-04-11T05:27:00.000+08:00

Before you get so enraged and risk burning down your home (I'm looking at you tats!), note that I excluded myself from selecting this choice, because, of course, we all know that my cuteness factor is way off the charts. Way off.

Ahem. The recipient of my prestigious choice is the moogle from FF: Crystal Chronicles. Just look at that. So fluffy and probably infinitely huggable (not unlike yours truly...ahem). I wish it existed in real life. I'll gladly part a thousand bucks for it.

Other oh-so-cute characters include Pikachu, that other fluffy thing from Magic Knight Rayearth, that shaky, cone-nosed character from Rave, Doraemon, Badbadtzmaru, and any penguin and cat character.

Graduation and Standing Up

2006-04-10T04:10:00.000+08:00

Reuel and ate Jennie finally graduated from the prestigious SISC institution. (no jokes there, don't bother). We (tats, wally, and sir ed) were on hand as your very dependable pseudo-soldiers. 'Tis my second time, actually, atfter last year's stint at the nursing capping ceremony...oh...but this was worse...a lot worse...

Try standing straight and rigid for over an hour and a half while carrying a quite heavy flag. Ugh. The memories...it burns the heart. Yup, that's what happens when over eager emcees decide to go ahead with the proceedings even as us poor souls were still in detail.

Good times though -- Sir Ed's "taaaaaaanghaaaaal!" and "kanang bali...kaAAAaaatt" more than made up for the sore muscles and uber back pain.

Reuel Culalic -- dreams of being a girl someday...

Congrats to our good friends Jennie Castillo (leadership award!) and Reuel Culalic (you rule!). Libre sa unang suweldo!

Summer hair

2006-04-01T21:22:00.000+08:00

It's so mainit...

somebody cast an ice spell

2006-03-29T18:52:00.000+08:00

I, your lowly (but extremely cute) vassal Ryu Uchida, beseech you oh mighty mages of way above -- please grant us your holy spell of "cool as winter" to combat the evils of summer heat.

This heat is preventing us, your vassals, from functioning in your beautiful world properly. With this dastardly heat, our important responsibilities such as playing games, reading books, watching tv shows and dvd films, and even eating (yes eating!), are even more harder to accomplish than they were before this scorch of a climate.

Ice us please.

Anniversarry!

2006-03-23T17:24:00.000+08:00

YEY! MArch 22. One year na! hoho.

of course, di mo lam kung anu klase aniv to because im the only one stupid (and sad) enough to celebrate such an occassion. magtanong tanong ka na lang.

send gifts everyone! looking forward to the next aniv! matatag toh!

WORLD CHAMPIONS!

2006-03-23T17:12:00.000+08:00

They went in without their best players (many Jap Major Leaguers preferred spring training). They were nearly eliminated before Mexico miraculously upset the U.S. They had their hearts torn and beaten to pieces after an American umpire reversed a decision which cost Japan the game in a round 2 match against, of course, the U.S. They lost twice to rival Korea. But then again, they handed Korea their only loss in the whole tournament by a 6-0 margin. Then they faced Olympics champions Cuba for the inaugural World Baseball Classic championship game.

And they won. 10-6. World Baseball Classic Champions. First. Ever. History.

GAME!

2006-03-17T18:24:00.000+08:00

Gamers take note: There's a new gaming mag in town and its gonna own your soul and... (hopefully) your purchasing money.

Game! magazine is now out in the market so pick up the premier issue and see my handsome mug in there.

Game! is a magazine made by crazy-ass gamers like myself and its the answer to the lack of locally published gaming magazines in the country (no, GM doesn't qualify).

So go ahead and buy a copy, or better yet, get yourself a subscription.

Also support other Hinge Inquirer Philippines mags like MPh.

buh-bye!

Shivering

2006-03-04T19:13:00.000+08:00

Hihihi. I can't stop giggling. And I can't stop smiling. No, I didn't win the lottery, nor did I win any tournaments or awards (though, in a related story, I lost p40 in a counterstrike match just recently. that's what i get for competing in an impromptu match after a hiatus of, I don't know, several years?).

I'm happy because of the "tribute to the teachers night", even though I tripped one time while going up on stage. Good thing few seemed to notice.

I presented an award with the hands-down most gorgeous woman in the world. hoho. if you don't agree with me, then die. Just joking. To each his own, ika nga.

I was totally nervous. I didn't know what I was doing on stage. Friends cite some really embarassing moments, but I was too caught up in the moment to even notice.

I know that what happened wouldn't affect anything. But you know what, it was one of my happiest moments ever. And that's enough.

I wasn't able to properly say thank you, bu thank you!

Buh-bye

2006-02-25T10:31:00.000+08:00

To Richard Capili -- friend, colleague, fellow servant --

When all is at its end, and when everyone is at their return journey, await us, for we will be joining you. Thank you for everything.

Italy, Germany, and China

2006-02-06T15:50:00.000+08:00

No, I'm not talking about a new Axis military power. I'm talking about the three biggest names in sportsdom for the foreseeable future. That is: Italy -- Torino Winter Olympics; Germany -- World Cup 2006; and China -- 2008 Summer Olympics. I'll add another country to that mix: Japan.

Now, before you go on about how bias I am about Japan then get this straight. One: I'm a Japanese! And I not only say that, I say it true, I feel it true, and I act it true. Second: There's a lot to root for about Japan. It's practically near perfect (asides from a really bad case of porn infestation -- Darcy's favorite).

Ok. Going back to the sports. Japan will be sending a huge delegation of athletes to both quadrennial olympics. That's because they're rich and they're competent. They will be participating in the German World Cup because they QUALIFIED! And notwithstanding the fact that Brazil is in their group division, I'm confident that they'll advance to the final 16. I say these things because I'm not entirely Japanese (which I'm thinking that you're thinking is quite ironic because I've been saying Japan, Japan, Japan--but read on). I am also a Filipino. And there's no humor in that, so quite giggling. The point is that we are in a messy situation. I say that politically, socially, culturally, and in this case, athletically.

Concentrating on athletics, I find it shameful when I realized that the biggest moments of our nation's athletic history is heavily reliant on individual successes. Efren "Bata" Reyes. Paeng Nepomuceno. And of course Manny Pacquaio. That's billiards, bowling, and boxing. Not taking into account the three Bs, we seem to well...suck in sports. Especially team sports. Now we can argue that this is because our country sucks, but say that to the Africans, who are no doubt the most impoverished people in this otherwise superbly magnificent world, and they'll just laugh at you and say that you're a MORON!

So, are Filipinos forever in dread of never knowing Italy, Germany, or China? Good thing the local media doesn't think so --they glorify the most minute of Filipino successes as if they were Super Bowl victories, and don't even get me started on how many times they proclaim that the Filipinos are world-class. Ugh.

And, No! I don't hate this country. Au contraire. It's just what they call constructive criticism. Let's win some medals, damn it!

More rantings!

2006-01-26T14:34:00.000+08:00

What the hell is wrong with SM escalators? Are they made from wood? Why do they break at the most inopportune time? Like when I'm about to get on it. Damn annoying.

Also, what year does Wendy's think it is? I'm pretty sure they haven't received the word that we're 6 years into the 21st century considering that they still set their prices exclusive of tax. Picture this situation: A man proudly orders a menu item at a Wendy's store thinking that he has just enough to pay for the item and get home. He's even more proud because he has got his finances figured out down to the last centavo. However, poor 'lil guy has no idea that Wendy's doesn't include VAT in their price listings, so when the smiling attendant tells the guy the total bill for the order, the guy is shocked that instead of exactly P50, his total bill is actually P50.20.

In a state of panic, and clenching his fists tight around the varied coins and bills that he has prepared, the guy deliberates avoiding utter embarassment and humilition over getting to home quick and easy.

Now, I'm not this guy but I'm pretty sure that somewhere out there a person has suffered this terrible fate. So, Wendy's: WISE UP!

And, oh yeah, I just have to reaffirm that penguins are the cutest things ever. Just look at them. Adorable.

But back to some more rantings (the penguins are there just for aesthetic value). Well, actually I don't have anything else to say, I'm quite happy and calm now because of the cute, adorable penguins! Aww. But, come support the White Team next week! Cheer for us!

Me

2006-01-19T15:34:00.000+08:00

I'll take a break from the series of Alpha Phi Culalic member profiles. I have some things to say and I hope you (all three of you) will listen.

1st: About shades
I don't really have a grudge against those who wear shades; it's just that I think that shades have their place and their use. For instance, driving in broad daylight constitutes the need to wear shades because otherwise you'll be blinded. Also, if you have sore eyes then it's best, for the sake of everyone, to wear shades. Consequently, there are times when wearing shades isn’t ideal, or in most cases, just downright weird. Wearing shades indoors is one example. Wearing shades all the time is another. Come on guys, let’s see those beautiful eyes. Trust me when I say that a person’s arrogance level increases exponentially when they wear shades, especially the impossibly black ones.

2nd: Fatigue
I’m really tired. I am. I’m only 19, but I sometimes feel older. I like going to school, if only for some things, but I’m tired of being in class. Yes, I still want to learn, that part of me will never die, but I need a break. I need time out.

3rd: DVD
I WANT more Asian films! They’re the best thing ever! Somebody find me a copy of Hana and Alice!

4th: About NaCl
The only thing that’s keeping me sane (though sometimes insane). I wonder when I’ll be free from this prison. But, in truth, I’m not really sure if I want out. Only three semesters to go for me…will I be free then?

Food Monster

2006-01-11T17:35:00.000+08:00

This next guy goes by a lot of names. He was once called BeeBoy after an incident with a bee (duh, of course). He was dubbed Joratio (pronounced Ho-Ra-Sho) because that’s his real name. In some circles, he’s regarded as Boy Pagkain (or in English, Food Boy) because of his seemingly unending appetite. In the basketball court, he is Mr. Excitement because, well, he is always excited.

But, this guy is known to us by the simple call sign of Tatos (that’s Tah-Tos, or you can say Tey-Toes) because the name sounds cute. Tah-Tos! Tah-Tos! Tah-Tos! Say it with me! Hooray! Hooray-sho!

Anyway, Tats (that’s the short version) is one helluva eater. He’s first order of business in school is food, and his last order of business is also food. Simply put, he goes to school for food. And for girls. Yup, lots of girls. Tats has a crush for every letter of the alphabet. I myself wear a certain pendant, and if Tats would have done the same, his pendant would probably read something akin to 3A65B2C5D and so on and so forth. The guy has crushes up the wazoo.

But, don’t get the impression that Tats is only about the food and the girls. Tats is also a bona fide rocker. And by that I mean he headbangs like there’s no tomorrow. Girls, take note, Tats is quite scary when enjoying his desired levels of noise, which he claims falls under the art category of music, but I detest.

And lest I forget, Tats has the patented Sunshine Shot. Watch our bball games to know what I’m talking about. Send him some love!

Boy Sabog -- Rod

2006-01-07T12:20:00.000+08:00

He's tall, he's white, he's everything your not. He's handsome, he's hot, he's overweight by 50 lbs. He's cute, he's charming, he's into...oh crap.

Yup. Yup. Yup. It's another edition of the fabled "RYU tells his friends deepest secrets". I've already touched on the profile of the savior of Middle Earth, now it's time for the greatest shooter of the White Team -- Rod Steven O. Vasquez.

Hmmm. What do I have to say? Rod has a girlfriend. Her name is Jam. Jam has a boyfriend. His name is Rod. Rod lives in Cavite. He drives a van. He has lots of money, but he is very "kuripot!" He hasn't treated me to Pancake House as per Lords of the College Cafe Executive Agreement No. 758, which states: Any member of the prestigious Lords of the College Cafe gay community who manages to woo (or fool) a girl into becoming his official (dapat may written consent nang parents) girlfriend should, under the penalty of ouster from the organization, treat all the other members of the organization to a eat-all-you-can festivity in the Pancake House restaurant within 1 year of the date of official relationship creation.

Anyway, Rod also likes Filipino films. We've watched Volta, Let the Love Begin, etc. Those movies suck! But Rod is a diehard Filipino film fan. His favorite TV show is Daisy Siete and his favorite actor/actress is Richard Gutierrez. He also religiously watches Boy Abunda's Homeboy.

Aside from his favorites, Rod is one helluva good friend. But then again, he is very "kuripot!" Hoy, manlibre ka naman! Nagugutom ako!

just so you wouldn't say I'm not updating my blog anymore

2005-12-19T12:38:00.000+08:00

So, whatup?

hmmm....

we had a drinking binge last...I dunno...and it was a blast. Better check out Tat's latest post for the full coverage because--men!---I'm still feeling that tequila. Yuck! Bring on some sparkling wine! Now that's yum.

What else? Oh yeah! That thingy in my last post. Hmmm. Honestly, I don't know. Trying not to think about it. But to tell you the truth, I think that's the end of it.

But no point feeling all sad and gloomy--ITS CHRISTMAS SEASON!

Yey! I had my PS2 fixed and the Chronicles of Narnia rules! Ill have my dvd player fixed too by tomorrow so that effectively recompletes the Ryu trifecto of videogames, books, and film.

Lastly, anyone here been to the Promenade Mall in Greenhills? I had to find my way there to interview someone (more on this story far later). Damn. That has got to be the most expensive place I've ever been to. Never had I felt more insecure than in the company of freakin' rich (and, I have to be honest, hot and gorgeous) people. Man, I'm so do not belong there. But I want to go back--wanna try the cinemas. And those flat-screen panels in E.G.G. (extreme gaming grounds)? Whoa!

puff puff

2005-12-05T16:26:00.000+08:00

Here I go again. Stupid 'lil me is dreaming big once again. When will I learn? Hah! Never!

So, a few days left to go till the big day. Big day for me atleast. It is in this hour that I truly wish that I have some sort of time-travel, or even just time-viewing, capabilities so that I can take a peak into the future and see what lies ahead for me. Just a tiny, little peak.

Unfortunately, the laws of physics does not provide for such a device, leaving me with no other choice but to say "Hallelujah!", breath heavily, and throw away all sense of apprehension, fear, and expectation. Away with you, "Reactions of other peepz!"

What am I talking about? Clue: Pearl Harbor.

Check back in a few days.

ALL HAIL THE MIGHTY REUEL!!!

2005-11-24T14:52:00.000+08:00

The man responsible for putting an end to Sauron's madness by destroying the One Ring has asked me to update my blog. And considering the sacrifice that Fro...ahem, I mean, Reuel has done for us, I saw it fit to honor his tiny request. So here goes...

Actually this post would be a tribute to the legacy of Reuel Vernon Culalic. No, he's not dead yet...unfortunately...but he's leaving Southville for good when he...???...graduates this school year so no better time than now to post something honoring the 'lil $#$#%^.

Reuel is the backup pointguard of the White Team. He's very good. But he's scared. Like a chicken. He likes chickens. When we go to McDo he always orders chicken. I've never seen him eat hamburger. In fact, I've never seen him eat bread. He eats rice. Now, why is that? I remember the hobbits eating bread!

Yes. Reuel is a hearthrob! All the girls look at her. Why? Because Reuel wears a magic cologne. He bought it from Baclaran. It smells like JRF piss. Not good. The cologne attracts girls who are attracted to monkeys. That's why.

Any Reuel questions? Just ask me. I'm the Reuel expert. And next time you see him, remind him not to go above 17 in my Mp3 player volume. GRRRR!!!

Another baby!

2005-11-14T16:58:00.000+08:00

YES!!! The monster baby is back at the house and I'm pissing my pants in fear!!! He looks like a 5 year old!!! And he's barely one year and a half!!!

No pics or stories as of now. They arrived just the other day. But I have pics of my other nephew (Matthew) who I call Ma-chu! So cute. The story is about our time in Manila Memorial Park (God bless the souls of the departed) last Oct. 31. It is customary for our family to go there every year and be with our departed loved ones. We usually have a good time there so that our loved ones will feel our love and happiness. Cheesy, eh?

The baby of our focus, Ma-chu, was dressed as a sly, 'lil devil (as seen in the pic). And when we went to the mini zoo in the park, he was so fond of the rods and the jrfs...oh I mean...ducks and the monkeys.

I'll try to get a pic of the two babies together sometime. Yesterday they were kissing each other! Oh no!!!

Not too late

2005-11-14T16:46:00.000+08:00

It's not too late to post something about our semestral break trip to Batangas!!! Yes, Yes!!! We went to Batangas --> me, Reuel "Arabian Nights" Culalic, Ate Jennie, Kuya Pao, Lola Moc, Sachie and Tal (The Terrible Duo), Jami the Chubby, Pao the Hair, and Jan (Jami's Cousin).

JRF the lover boy and Rod the lover boy 2 wasn't with us because both of them are under close scrutiny by their respective girlfriends so no trip for them. Haha!!! Wawa naman! Single life RuleS!!!! or not...

Anyway. Of course we went there for swimming and all that stuff. We actually only went for a dive one time because it rained during the 2nd day and we had to leave by midday on the third. It was still a blast! Cold water!!! Brrr...

Highlight of the 1st night was the fight against Mr. Emperador. Reuel tried to fight the man but he lost horribly. Good thing though because he belted out a few, ahem, "revelations" concerning something 100%. Better not go into much details --> just look for the video on ate jennie's blog (password: matabungkay). And don't tell Reuel that you got the password from me! Shhh!

The 2nd day I was asleep or bed-ridden for almost the entire day because Mr. Empy plus hot coffee it seemed wasn't such a good combination. But during that night...oh boy...I was in for a rough beating courtesy of Tal and Sachie! They're volleyball players alright because they whooped my head, my body, and my poor ass with their cruel spikes and tosses. Ouch. It still hurts. For more of this story: ask around!

I wish we had more time in Batangas! It was really fun despite everything. I really love cooking and I hope I get better on it. Next time: December trip!

the return of the monster baby!

2005-10-12T13:05:00.000+08:00

My sister and her cute, big, year-old son (my nephew) recently visited us in my aunt's house. They stayed there with us for a week, customary monthly thing. Of course, since my room is small and there's no such thing as a guest room, I had to make do with sleeping in a makeshift bed for the whole week.

Ouch! Still feeling the ill effects in my back. Try sleeping in six uneven pillows for a week!

There was this one unforgettable night though. It was about midnight and all seems well. I was probably dreaming, or something, and I noticed that it felt kinda heavy. After a while I woke up and found Shaun, the big baby who probably weighs much more than I do, on top of me sleeping merrily at my expense. Goodness! and he seemed to be enjoying it. and so was my ate who was merely watching and laughing all the while. She said the baby was in that position for over 30 minutes! hehe. fun, but then painful...arouch!

college cup III ends...

2005-10-12T12:59:00.000+08:00

okay, I know, I know, this one's long overdue. It happened like ages ago but I have some spare pics so I might as well use them. Anyway, college cup III didn't end like the white team wanted it to end, not referring to the champions pink or the runners-up red per se but rather that we didn't make it to the semis again. darn. something for next sem then.

championship was helluva lot of fun. although my voice failed me in several occasions -- i'm not cut out for that announcing gig, so hard on the vocal chords. argh. but it was fun, exciting, and nervewracking. hoping a bigger finals next sem.

you see some of the white team members holding the trophy. yup, its ourS! kidding. but I hope we'll get the chance to hold it for real next sem. suportahan niyo kami! watch all our games!

darn!!!! still can't get over the best muse thing! I mean, c'mon!

Going back...

2005-09-24T15:38:00.000+08:00

I'd forgotten how much I miss my high school alma mater -- Elizabeth Seton School. I can't be sure, but I believe that much of who I am today stems from my four years of stay in that institution. Sure, I may have had the same quality of education in similarly-leveled (ESS is considered one of the tops schools in the country -- supposedly, but I believe it) schools. But the same character? I doubt it.

It is in this school that I first developed the idea that there is a bigger world out there. A world bigger than the Playstation I was so fond of. Larger and more expansive than the television set most of us are guilty of being too attached to. ESS didn't teach me to abandon these luxuries, they however taught me how to put these things into perspective.

In my graduating year in ESS, I became the editor-in-chief of the Seton Notes (our official school paper), the treasurer for the Student Council, and the chief of the Yearbook Committee. Seeing where I am today, and realizing the various responsibilites that I hold, I am happy that I undertook those responsibilities back then because otherwise I may still just be a regular, happy-go-lucky, non-caring student. Thank God.

So when ESS elebrated its first Grand Alumni Homecoming, I was eager to go back. Not a lot went back, only around 600-700 people came -- they missed the free ice cream and iced tea (stuff which I found out could lead to fever when taken in excessively). But the new gymnasium where the party was held was breathtaking. It puts SISC's gym to shame. International my ass (not that I hate southville, I love it, it's just that ESS is better).

It is when I returned to my 4th year classroom, however, that things started to get really nostalgic. I guess what they say is true: no place like home. And for what seemed to be longer than ten months, I considered that classroom my home. Seating in my old seat -- priceless...

AfTer a very long vacation

2005-09-19T17:47:00.000+08:00

Not a real vacation per se, but a vacation from blogging. And not a voluntary, peaceful, and serene vacation, it's just that som many things keep cropping up and there's barely enough time to do anything, let alone blogging. But the rain has finally cleared (by that I mean not the 'real' rain but the events etc.), at least for a while, and that has allowed me the chance to blog once again.

Peer Counseling

The SSC-CoL, together with the Psychology Society of xtian sekhanan initiated the peer counseling seminar last...uh I dunno. it was attended by several schools including sisc. its objective was to help our peers in terms of counseling. hence, peer counseling. we have more projects lined up for this cause so await that.

St. Mark's talk

I was invited to give an inspirational address by the student council of St. Mark's Institute (SMI) -- a nearby school. The officers of the new student council there knew me from the Asian Federation of Student Leaders (AFSL) convention last october held in SISC. Anyways, the talk was at the last of the program -- they were celebrating linggo ng wika -- so I was guest of honor watching the festivities seated in the middle of the stage together with the school administrators. I was surprised by the number of poeple there, literally the whole school population of over a thousand was there. And I was expecting a crowd of less than 100. Whew! I delivered the speech quite ok and I'm glad the whole ordeal was over. I had to finish the food they offered me in a hurry bec. I have a meeting with the SISCPA (parent's assoc.) back in southville. off I went. busy day.

Alay-Lakad

The annual alay lakad of rotary international was exciting. we had more delegates including new friends from the freshmen block. too bad ******** wasn't there. that spoiled the whole affair. damn. regardless, it was for a good cause and I can't wait for the next one.

Field Trip

2005-08-22T17:25:00.000+08:00

I never thought U.P. Diliman was so damn big, but the university was indeed huge. AS IN HUGE!!! Never took the UPCAT so my surprise is pretty much understandable. Anyway, we went there to watch this play called St. Louis Loves Dem Filipinos at the school's famed Palma Hall Theater. The play was a blast, genius in many respects, funny beyond your wildest imaginations, filled with beautiful girls (hoho), but just too damn long. I was so freakin' hungry!!!

When the play was over and we got back to the bus (I rode with BSN-1A --my classmates in art appreciation) I realized I had nothing but chips and two C2s in my bag. Dear Lord. Thank goodness that we made a stop over at this line of food establishments or I'd have died of starvation (perhaps for the better??? uhm...nah....life is good). Unfortunately, as if adding insult to my great stomach injury, the line at McDonalds stretched as far as the Snake Road (one point for anime fanatics who recognized the reference) so I was left with no choice but to order at Jollibee. Damn kamote fries!

We went to two museums next, but as with most museum trips, there's pretty much nothing to talk about so I'll leave the rest of the story to your imagination.

Fabulous Opening of the College Cup

2005-07-30T19:16:00.000+08:00

Season III of the College Cup kicked off to a grand start with a fabulous opening last July 29, 2005. There was the requisite parade showcasing all 5 teams from the volleyball division and all 12 teams from the basketball group. Since I am the captain ball of the most popular, most handsome, and most attractive team of the College Cup, the White Team, I get to parade up front with our muse, Mikki Mangrobang.

Mikki wasn't able to win the best muse prize though, that award went to the muse of the Yellow Team. For me, I thought the contest was a no-brainer. I mean, even if all the muses' beauty were combined and multiplied to the 100th power of 1000, they wouldn't be touching the gorgeousness that is the muse of the Red Team. In fact, the muse of that team had such an aura, that team went on and beat defending champions Black Team.

But fanaticism aside, I was pretty relieved that the muse of the Red Team didn't get the award, or else I would have clobbered the best escort from the SFC. But considering the garguantan size of that guy, I'm glad that never came to be. Going back to the Red Team vs. Black Team, I was surprised of the outcome, and quite frankly, hugely disappointed. Black shouldn't have lost. But they did. And it was all their fault. Substitution mishaps.

Oh, and did you guys see the tarpaulin banners of the College Cup? Nice, eh? I'm hoping that Reuel gets the MVP award for this sem so that we can use his face in next sem's tournament. How creepy is that. Tats was very happy with the banner for the volleyball, just look at the pic above. I loved our team's jersey. Lovely, isn't it? The white and light blue combination resembling the jersey of the Denver Nuggets. I'm wearing #30 by the way, let's see you decipher the meaning behind that.

I can't wait for our first game. We're stronger now. I think. And I hope students would come and support us. Go White!

BSBA Week

2005-07-30T17:43:00.000+08:00

In an activity that took more preparation than initially thought, the BSBA Week Celebration, I'd say, was pretty stellar.

It started with the 'Business as Usual' mini-party. There were games, prizes, and food (Thanks to Ate Tin for the lovely, top-notch food -- loved the potato marbles!!!). My dear friend Rod Vasquez participated, quite reluctantly, in the trip to jerusalem game (you know, the game with the chairs and music). Due to his visible lack of enthusiasm, he was promptly eliminated. Wawa naman.

Meanwhile, JRF and France were busy munching the free food to their stomach's delight. Shao wasn't there because he's not BSBA (which means he's a psycho!). Don't worry though Shao, we'll prepare a BS Psychology Day...or hour...hehe.

There was also a retailing activity which lasted for two days. It was fun although it rained heavily during the first day and that hampered quite a bit the festivity. I seriously digged the BSBA Challenged, a sort of adaptation of Amazing Race. The challenges included eating polvoron; transferring a bottle of water using only straw and your hand into another bottle; looking for stuff in a deep box filled with corn starch; etc. But my favorite was the challenge wherein they had to find three guys whose signatures they must acquire. I was one of the three people they had to find so I hid. And the contestants, I'd imagine, were thinking of a few choice words while they were sweating like Rod Vasquez in any given moment with a crush trying to find me. Me bad.

The second day of the BSBA celebration was also fun. We had a food preservation demo courtesy of our dear prof., Dr. Mendoza. My friends Graziel and G-ann, together with my dear, naughty pet JRF tried their best to follow instructions (we were preparing quick-cured ham and slab bacon), but to no avail. Actually, their final product was pretty good with the most tender meat of the three dishes. It was on the receiving end, though, of too much cinnamon (hate that stuff).

Finally, we went to Honda Cars Phils. in Laguna for a plant tour. They gave us a nice-looking cap (see pic) during the orientation, but told us we had to return the cap after the tour (bummer!). Instead, we got a pretty ok pen as souvenir. To be honest, I had mixed emotions with the tour. It was fun and yet boring. Educational yet pointless. Get it? The free food was nice but I really wanted to see Asimo (their robot). Too bad he wasn't there. What was there, however, were the poor "associates" who seemed to be awestruck by the sight of females. Pity their souls.

Retreat? More Like Food Trip...

2005-07-25T18:48:00.000+08:00

As you may have all known, Southville is home to a program aptly called the Comprehensive Growth Series (CGS). It is usually held every semester for different classes of the different levels of IC. It's supposed to be a venue for personal, moral, spiritual, and whatnot development, but actually it's more of a sleep then eat kind of thing. Not that I'm complaining, those stuff are wickedly fun.

This is the first time that we had non-close friends in our room. Aside from my ever-present, and ever-dependable (NOT!) best friends (JRF, Shao, Roddie Boi, France), there was also Vhal Billiones and Marlon Bungato to share the room with us. There were only six bed spaces, so the Swiss guy had to sleep in the floor. No worries though, that guy usually sleeps in the College Cafe (kiddin' - he actually dragged a bed from the other room.

I have to say, though, that these two guys are downright weird. Weird enough to last two days and one night with us - the Lords of the College Cafe. Vhal, with his "and dalandan bridge is fallin" joke and Marlon's...actually...I better not say anything more about his...uhm...action with Kevin Miranda. All I can say is: ewww! How ewww? Much ewwwer than JRF's breath in any given day. Yes, even after brushing.

They're nice companions and I hope that we'll be seeing more of them in school. But where will the true essence of the CGS go if not for the ridiculous givings of food, drinks, and other stuff. Of course, eating isn't complete without sleeping and in that regards, my dear friend JRF can't be beaten (see pic above). He's the master of sleeping and he spent probably 75% of our stay in The Farm doing that mentally-straining, physically-draining activity. The other 25% he spent eating, reading his 'retreat letter' from his 'baby angel', and trying his best to molest me. Really ewww.

Rod, as usual, went on and on about this new girl while the Swiss guy was inconsolable with the venue's disturbing lack of alcohol...and cheese. Shao, back from his much too brief stint as a smoke-free guy (about two days), also dwelled on his misfortune as he wasn't able to inhale that darned substance of a gas. And, oh yeah, can you guess which is which in the pic of the two semi-kalbo guys above (choices: Rod, France).

Anyway, the CGS was tremendously fun. With all the food, the ice-cold water that you had to use as bath water, all the Menthos, the Milo and the Nestle coffee, and all the events which transpired which should never leave the confines of our memories, the CGS was indeed comprehensively growth-building for our series.

empty

2005-07-21T18:23:00.000+08:00

I don't have a glamorous life. I have just enough to go by and enjoy some bits of luxuries here and there. I do have a PS2 and a 29-inch television so that's pretty tasty. However, most other things come at intervals which would make others cry. I'm not whining though, I think I have a fantastic life right now. I have good friends, I have nice acquaintances, and I don't live in a basket or anything like that. God has been really good to me.

When sometimes I evaluate myself as a person, one thing pops up almost always: the empty feeling that I have. Sure, I'm terribly busy with all the extra-curri stuff that I'm doing. I nary get a breather sometimes. And the consequence? Well, my friends don't see much of me as they used to (don't know whether that's a good thing or not, though). Yet, I enjoy all these things. I really do. If you examine my heart, you'll see how happy and fulfilled I am by all the things that I'm doing. Many of these things never even reach the ears or eyes of the community that I am in.

I crave not attention. I crave not recognition. I crave not rewards. I crave not admiration. And I definitely crave not pity. When I do something, the realization that it is for a worthy, noble cause is enough reward for all the work put into it...at least for a night...

But I guess what I'm really trying to say is that behind all the titles, behind the reputation and the fame, behind the congratulations and the handshakes, behind the overly overrated perception of my intelligence, I'm really just someone trying to find something which will make up that emptiness.

When I fail at whatever, when I don't perform as my community expects of me, and when there's nothing for me to do for lack of inspiration, I cringe...temporarily. But after a while, that weird feeling is gone and I'm back once again at my seemingly perennial dilemma. And after comes the bitter sensation that if I had that one thing which I crave, then my failures would mean nothing, because compared with that one thing all the failures in the world are nothing.

I can't back out from this situation. My options are wide open yet I refuse to take any of them. I'm stuck with the assumption that maybe life has better plans in store for me in the future...maybe it isn't my time yet to be complete.

There's one thing that I'm sure of though, the one thing which holds me through all this clutter, and that is I, Ryu Uchida, Master of the Universe, will not willingly let go...If it leaves me, then it leaves me. And that, my dear friends, is the end of it.

Prelim Time

2005-07-18T13:35:00.000+08:00

Finally its prelims time. And finally, I have the time to watch movies and play videogames again. Woo. It has been a very busy prelims period for me and I'm not talking about academic duties. I'm exhausted yet fulfilled by the amount of work I do. Good thing I forget about that one tiny problem that I have when I keep myself busy.

I'm sorry to my friends because I'm not able to go with them anymore to gimiks. Di ako nakasama sa Fantastic 4, sa B-day celeb ni Rod, inuman kela swiss boy, and other stuff...sori...bawi nalang...

Hay...still can't stop thinking about....ops tama na...

Happy B-DAY Big Baby!

2005-07-04T17:56:00.000+08:00

My nephew, Shaun Justin, celebrated his 1st bday last Sunday and me and my relatives went to Quezon City for a kiddy party. Yey!

We went there using my aunt's vanette which was extremely excruciating. Me and four of my cousins were seated at the back and my aunt apparently 'tweaked' a few things in the back of the car without really any idea of what she's doing. The result is a uber-bumpy ride akin to riding a roller-coaster. And since my uncle drives so damn fast, the problem is compounded.

But after an exhaustive trip all was well and good with many food delights courtesy of a food cater service. Lemon-cured porkloin, veggies with quail egg, seafood pasta and other stuff were all in hand and in outrageous quantities - fun stuff!

It was mostly a kiddy affair for my super-heavy, super-big nephew (son of my sister type of nephew, actually as opposed to son of cousin nephew) who looks nothing like a one year old. In fact, it was a repeated joke that we were celebrating his 3rd bday because he looks so freakin' big. If you look at the photos, he was 3 months in the left pic and about 10 months in the right (didn't get to take a pic at the bday).

speak

2005-07-02T15:17:00.000+08:00

Just got back from a inspirational message stint at my friend Rod Vasquez' school in Cavite. They were gracious enough to invite me as guest speaker for a leadership seminar for their Student Council - fun, I tell you.

And I got P1000 as honorarium - fun stuff even if its a little hard to swallow for me since I merely gave a lousy talk. Oh well.

My First Time

2005-06-26T15:09:00.000+08:00

My first time to do an entrance of colors (not whatever it is you're thinking, sicko!)...

Yup. I became part of the entrance of colors during the capping and candle lighting ceremony of the 3rd year students. And yes, I've never done that before. I've never even worn a fatigue in my life prior to that occasion. I didn't do CAT, you see, because I'm a Jap citizen.

At first I was greatly hesitant (for obvious reasons) but Sir Franco talked me into it, besides I really wanted to go to the capping so I now had an excuse. It was quite fun and I liked the military-esque uniform. Very cool!

I carried the Philippine flag and it was quite heavy. And since it was so hot in the gym plus the fact that you had to hold it for the duration of the prayer and the national anthem, I was very exhausted at the end.

The ceremony itself was ok. Some fine moments and some funny moments (why was Rebo's pic like that?). But I'd rather attend next year's capping...hehe.

Who am I?

2005-06-20T17:05:00.000+08:00

On the one hand I am a very serious individual out to grow and learn as much of this world as I can...yet at the same time I find the time to play around, to enjoy and have fun...to laugh...and to smile.

But below the happy facade, am I really happy? Do I even know myself? I guess the answer to the first query would have to be a slightly less than emphatic yes. Yes, I am happy. I am happy that I have such wondrous and loyal friends whom I share most of my time and experiences with. I am delighted that I belong to a great school in which I have the opportunites to grow and to learn. I am ecstatic that I am able to partake of so many of this world's offerings, particularly culturally through film, television, writings, and interactive entertainment.

But before I delve into that side of me let me answer the second question. Yes, I know myself. I am a man of vision, of character, and most of all, I can confidently say that I am a man of God.

God. It's not a word very popular with today's generation - a generation which destroys moral limits and social traditions. So in this sense, I am a rebel. I am the unorthodox. I am not of the norm because I choose to live a part of my life in the past - the past wherein religion mattered, where limits abound. That part of me is my heart. My heart stays true with the conviction to limit my mind and follow with great obedience the Word of the Lord. But my mind is progressive, it continues to explore and discover. But is this not contradictory?

Not. For I am a conservative-progressive. I am conservative with my morals, progressive in my thinking. What falls into which is entirely up to me to decide.

But going back to the question of whether I am really happy or not, then I'd have to assert again that I am indeed happy. After all, with so many of the world's populace living in poverty, I'd have to be very insensitive to take such great pity upon myself.

That is not to say that I feel no pain nor sadness. When the day passes and the sounds of technology no longer occupy my being, I am left alone with only a pillow to hug. Ah...but yes, it is indeed that dilemma. So, in this context, I am normal after all.

That which I want, is that which I lack. That which I hope for, is that which eludes my grasp.

So I wait...in futility...in vain...but I'll wait smiling...

Whew!

2005-06-18T14:55:00.000+08:00

After an exhaustive planning and prepartion phase, we finally delivered the College Convocation yesterday. I was surprised that many students were there but dumbfounded by the 'quality' of the sound system in the gym. Someone should really get that fixed.

But the highlight of the event, for me, was seeing JRF with his crush walking side by side (as uniform models) along the red carpet. It was as if walking the aisle towards a priest. Lovely!

This is just the start of the school-year though, await much, much more to come...

blah, blah, blah

2005-06-10T16:36:00.000+08:00

Due to popular demand, and by that I mean due to Rod Vasquez' demand, I'm gonna write another post. Hmm. But what do I write about?

Do I write funny and revealing stuff about my four evil, dastardly, conniving, and wicked friends? Or do I list all the bad things happening in my life in an effort to solicit some pity and comforting from others? How about I yank on and on about how good and emotional the anime film Grave of the Fireflies while constantly and repeatedly getting 'huwat?' looks from disbelievers? Or how about I respond in kind to JRF's less than kind (or is that very kind) post in his blog? How about I tell you how happy and fulfilled I am when Japan beat North Korea 2-0 to be the first to officially qualify for next year's World Cup in Germany? But I think I'd rather tell you that me and a few others are working our assess off to prepare the orientation this coming school year and to give you the latest issue of the fabulous Collegiate Mover the very same day...but I think I'd rather not tell you that.

Maybe you'd like to hear that I'm going school shopping in a few minutes after I'm done writing this post? Did I tell you that I'm seriously liking this red and white (Japanese colors) bag I saw at this store? Its quite cheap and comes with a free hat. I hope nobody picked it up yet or I'm gonna cry. Should I just tell you the bad movies and the good movies and the good and bad PS2 games that I experienced over the past few months (reviews at the other blog)? Maybe Rod will like it if I disclose to the general public his very successful (cough x10) lofe life. Maybe not.

Wait, in trying to think what topic to write about, I've divulged all my options. Oh well, here's to the coming school year. Cheers!

19!!!

2005-06-01T15:54:00.000+08:00

Hey Yey Wey I'm 19!!! I feel like 17 or 18...or 19. Don't care but its great to be 19 even if I've only been 19 for a half a day now! Yahoo! Send gifts so I'll be happy. Thanks in advance! No figurines please! No liquor either (ahem, France)!

Man, I'm Stuffed

2005-06-01T15:46:00.000+08:00

I haven't been writing about what's happening with me lately so I thought I'd make an entry. Recently went to McDonalds ATC for a children's party for my one year old nephew, Matthew (son of my cousin). Of course I went partly for the food (ok, largely) but it was a nice, slow afternoon and I got to wander around ATC for a while.

Prior to the birthday, I haven't eaten at McDo for quite a while so all my senses were in high gear but I couldn't possibly eat everything (I'm the smallest eater in the group) - spaghetti, chicken, fries, burger, and sundae. There weren't a lot of guests so a lot of food were left untouched and in our family that could only mean one thing - Take Out! hehe. And so we went home with a food pack for all of us and that was that.

Its boring talking about yourself...

The Lords of Southville (or maybe just in the College Cafe)

2005-05-21T22:11:00.000+08:00

Schoolyear 2005-2006 will be the year of the "Incredibly Handsomes" otherwise known as the group of Ryu, Jrf, Rod, Franz, and the returning Paulo. So I thought why not divulge a few secret and previously unattainable bits of information about the members of the group for your enjoyment and knowledge.

Name: Ryuichi Gene B. Uchida
Nick: Ryu (some call me cutey)
Nationality: Jap
Gender: Male
Definition of Love: Sodium Chloride
Ideal Girl: Oriental and white
Interests: Videogames and movies
Fave Food: sushi and rahmen
Fave Drink: coffee
Fave Movie: Grave of the Fireflies
Fave Book: Red Storm Rising
Fave Song: Please Forgive Me
Fave Sport: Football (Soccer)
Fave School Place: Library
Ambition in Life: to own PS3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Revolution
Strength: astonishingly good looks
Weakness: height
Car: asa pa
Motto: "I like to move it, move it!"

Name: JRF Ibañez
Nick: Jerfy Boy
Nationality: proudly Filipino
Gender: ???
Definition of Love: oh yeah!
Ideal Girl: any girl will do
Interests: girls
Fave Food: anything edible
Fave Drink: Gatorade
Fave Movie: Let the Love Begin
Fave Book: Harry Potter
Fave Song: Don't Know What To Do
Fave Sport: Basketball
Fave School Place: Canteen
Ambition in Life: to be a girl (or is that to be inside a girl? ewww)
Strength: fully developed muscles
Weakness: English speaking skills
Car: Honda City
Motto: "Who's your daddy?"

Name: Rod Steven O. Vasquez
Nick: Roddy (or Flabby)
Nationality: unproud Filipino
Gender: uhm...male ata
Definition of Love: love is all that matters, faithful and forever...
Ideal Girl: Japanese
Interests: Cars
Fave Food: Sisig
Fave Drink: plain water
Fave Movie: same as JRF
Fave Book: Rod says - what's a book?
Fave Song: Love Takes Time
Fave Sport: Cockfighting
Fave School Place: Parking Lot
Ambition in Life: to have JRF-like muscles
Strength: pleasing personality
Weakness: 50 pounds overweight
Car: Kia Besta
Motto: "Love is blind"

Name: Francois Thoenen
Nick: Prangkoys
Nationality: Fil-Swiss
Gender: Definitely Male
Definition of Love: over in 3 minutes
Ideal Girl: sexy and hot...and game
Interests: alcohol
Fave Food: Cheese and dairy
Fave Drink: Red Horse
Fave Movie: Closer
Fave Book: Funny Comics
Fave Song: As Long As You Love Me
Fave Sport: Swimming
Fave School Place: doesn't really go to school
Ambition in Life: to pass a subject
Strength: deep pockets
Weakness: alcoholic
Car: Nissan Sentra
Motto: "Tara inom tayo"

Name: Paulo Jaranilla
Nick: Shao
Nationality: Filipino (???)
Gender: Male
Definition of Love: I'm in love
Ideal Girl: scary, intimidating
Interests: guitar and cigs..lots of cigs
Fave Food: La la
Fave Drink: tequila
Fave Movie: Star Wars
Fave Book: intellectual books you wouldn't have a chance of understanding
Fave Song: Nothing Else Matters
Fave Sport: is driving recklessly a sport?
Fave School Place: smoking area in Select
Ambition in Life: to own Marlboro Inc.
Strength: impeccable driving skills
Weakness: talking in Filipino
Car: Honda Hatchback
Motto: "Chillax (Chill and relax)"

Realization

2005-05-11T16:20:00.000+08:00

Caught in the net of deep emotion
Held anew by utter conviction
Approaching a state few men achieve
Realizing ironically the futility of belief
Looking intently for something to live by
Eagerly awaiting a cure for my cry
Nothing will change sadly even though I whine
Even with all I am, I'm no one because you're not mine...

Choose the best!

2005-05-02T16:55:00.000+08:00

Pictures are louder than words, or so they say (nevermind that the word is actually action is...), so that's why there will be few words in this post and three gorgeous pics of my international crushes. Choose the best and give me a holler.

A B C

A- Amber Tamblyn (American). Can be seen on Joan of Arcadia
B- Sarah Tan (Singaporean). Channel V VJ
C- Yu Aoi (Japanese). From the movie Hana and Alice (check my review at the other blog)

my drinking buddies...or my financial supporters

2005-04-29T12:07:00.000+08:00

one thing I like about school is the sheer fun i get conversing with my friends. i dont have a lot of friends like other people but that is because i prefer a small group whom I can regularly keep in touch with...i have such a group in southville...but among them, three people stand out...

rod steven vasquez, jrf ibañez, and francois thoenen are my closest school buds. they are the ones whom I drink with, go to the cinemas with, eat with, do assignments with (hmmm...), do projects with, scout pretty ladies with, just do anything basically with. they've been my friends ever since I went to southville and our bond is such that there's no reasson to believe that we wont be able to carry this friendship and fellowship for the rest of our lives. I have to mention another friend of mine by the name of Paulo Jaranilla - he left school sometime before but he'll be back (atleast he said). He's one of our best buds!

Let me get into each of these guys. First with Rod. Rod is 5'4, weighs like a gazillion pounds, loves cars, loves phil. telenovelas and phil. chick flicks, goes to the gym regularly but without effect, loves starbucks (like we all do), feeds their fighting cocks, eats a lot, wears expensive shades when driving his kick-ass/souped-up van, treats me in mcdo, starbucks, and movies regularly, asks for advice a lot, have trouble with girls, and seems to have a deep sense of affection for my people (the japanese).

Now on to JRF. The weird name stands for Joey, Ron, Fred but just call him jerf or as i like to call him, jerfy boy. He has these 6 packs and huge biceps and whatnot but very concious about this health. Eats like an elephant (when we were at EK, he ordered a cheeseburger meal and then ordered again two-piece chicken meal and devoured all of them in a jiffy), extremely...uhm...wants some "action", stands around 5'8, best of the bunch in basketball, richest of us all, drives a honda city, idolizes t-mac, has his shoes (the screw one), chickboi, and "wawa naman" in his love life.

France. He's a swiss-filipino who cant get enough cheese and milk. stands around 5'8 to 5'9. semi-dark complexion complete with rocker hair and goatee (ewww). very liberal in the "most boys want to do this right now thing". always asks to have drinking session (calls me in the middle of the night, with no advance notice, and fetches me with his shiny, white car, so that we can go to cavite and "hang-out" with rod). wears only dark clothes with a black hat. smokes more than he attends classes (bad).

so thats it...my dear school buddies...all of whom deeply understand the level of financial capability that i am in and thus generously and unselfishly continues to shower me with "libre". thanks and ciao!

habemus papam!

2005-04-20T17:16:00.000+08:00

there will be certain events in my life which I will carry in my soul for all eternity. one such moment happened april 19, 2005 at exactly 11:50 pm in my cellphone time...

I tuned in to fox news channel like I always do to get an update on what was happening on the papal conclave in the vatican for the election of the new pope. commentaries as usual were being discussed but suddenly and almost an hour earlier than expected, smoke belched out from the chimney...

all the news channels including our local channels were covering the event live and everyone was in a state of sheer excitement. of course no one knew yet if the smoke was black or white (black meaning an inconclusive vote, white meaning a new pope has been elected. 6 hours before this time I witnessed black smoke so I eagerly awaited the outcome.

at first no one wanted to jump the gun and tell if the smoke was white..some stations in the vatican in fact said that the smoke was black which made the journalists visibly disapointed at first. but I saw white smoke..i felt it..this was it..the roman catholic church - the single-most important organization in the whole world, God's personal connection to this world to which he entrusted the keys to heaven - is finally getting a new leader after pope john paul IIs passing.

chills went down my spine as the tens of thousands gathered in st. peter square burst out into a beautiful array of joy and excitement. the bells of st. peter were not yet ringing so we did not know for sure if indeed a new pope has been elected. adding to the confusion, the bells will ring at the top of the hour like it always do and it did. but 4 minutes after the scheduled ringing, the bells sounded again and my emotions swept me again as it did during the passing of the previous pope. tears once again - tears which I rarely shed even when i am personally conquered with grief and despair, but such historic events can sway even a matured and hardened man as i am to sweet tears. not many here in the Phils probably witnessed this event. yet im so lucky because I witnesed both the end and the beginning of a papal transition.

sure enough, a cardinal appeared on the window balcony of st. peter's basilica and announced to the whole world that he brings great joy. habemus papam! we have a pope!

unlike many, i didnt like to speculate on who the next pope will be because I believe that the choice of the cardinals in the conclave will be guided by the power of the holy spirit. I knew the next pope will continue on the traditions of the roman catholic church which has stood the test of time and war for 2000 years. the next pope, i believed, would follow on the footsteps of pope john paul II in preserving catholic values and principles which God wishes to be preserved.

and a conservative pope was indeed what we had..cardinal joseph ratzinger of germany, one of pope john paul II's closest aides who have served him as prefect of the church doctrine for over 23 years. the "enforcer" some have dubbed him. now the world will come to know him as pope benedict XVI. and the world will love him as the world loved the previous pontiff.

catholics rejoice for religion will breath new life into our troubled world. I hope these events will strike at the hearts of the troubled youth who have distanced themselves from the teachings of Christ, teachings which the catholic church seeks to preserve for all eternity. help me in this struggle. do not be afraid.

meow-meow!

2005-04-14T12:31:00.000+08:00

i dont have anything interesting to talk about right now because all my time is spent on either playing ps2 or daydreaming so I'll just talk about my cat.

meow (my cat's name) isnt really mine in the sense that he or she was given to me or something. meow's an adopted cat who purrs and meows all the time like any self-respecting cat would do. he does the "cat sweetums" or the act where it tries to gain your favor by driving his body into your legs...which is cute. anyway I give him food sometimes which he happens to devour in a few seconds..kinda reminds me of my friend JRF. he's like that.

the cat seems weird though and lives besides my window at the back of some stacks of chicken food. he knocks during the night and its quite scary. meow!

farewell...

2005-04-06T14:31:00.000+08:00

this has been a sad period in catholic church history...and in fact, the whole world. pope john paul 2 went to heaven at around 3:30 am last april 3. before that day, the whole world was already expecting the inevitable.

when I dropped my playstation2 controller after a lengthy session at around 1 am, aprl 2, and tuned in to foxnews, the impression was that this could be the pope's final hours. every news channel was covering in detail and in length the event. other news programs were cancelled and suddenly the whole world was focused on the ailing pontiff.

it was a sad moment..i myself am not a person who sheds tears easily, but in moments like this wherein an effect on the most important facet of my life - my religion, my faith - is close at hand, then my emotions were just stirred into tears. i stayed awake until about 4 in the morning all the while cycling only through foxnews, cnn, bloomberg, and other news networks. when I awoke I quickly clicked on the tv and to my surprise and happiness, the pope was still alive...and even more of the world came to know the pope's struggle.

and then a press conference was shown..the pope's aides delivering the words that the pope wanted to convey to the world.

"I have looked for you, now you have come for me..."

once again I couldnt hold back my tears. this was a great man with a great legacy and now God is taking him back to a place where he could rest easily, knowing that he made an invaluable service to God and mankind.

we will miss him..and his passing have made my faith even stronger...religion is not something very fashionable to the youth nowadays, and its sad...i hope that the next pope would continue on the legacy of Pope john paul II in clinging to the traditional values and morals that for 2000 years have been preserved. they need not be changed, and God does not want them to change.

I pray that this event would mark a change of heart for our disenchanted youth, most of whom have removed God and his teachings away from their lives..

farewell our Pope. may you have a safe trip to heaven...

enchanted at EK

2005-04-01T16:23:00.000+08:00

in order to take our minds off the sad and troubling truths that we have experienced, my barkada decided to go to enchanted kingdom. i have to thank rod vasquez for the free day pass ticket! thanks rod! di me makakasama kung nde libre. hehe. as always. thanks din kay jrf nilibre me food sa magic wok sa atc and ticket dun sa 4-d ride. bait niyo talaga

this was my 2nd time in ek. the first time i rode only rialto, log jam, and dodgem. im afraid of rides you see esp. roller coasters and anything that would put myself in abnormal level of g-forces. but i wasnt my normal self when i got to ek and my mindset was that i had nothing to lose. so i rode flying fiesta thinking it was kid's game and to my surprise my heart was shaken quite a bit. although my mind hurt more from all the circlin.

rialto was next and it was boring. i remember that robocop was the theme when i first rode the attraction but now its some spaceship thingy. there was a cute girl though among us so that was quite comforting. oh btw, rod vasquez, jrf ibanez, paolo nuguid, graziel hidalgo with his ian, and 3 of graziel's peeps were the ones with me at ek.

the next ride was something that i wasnt really prepared for but cautiously awaiting. space shuttle was a serious no-no to me before, but like i said, my heart was already crushed so there's no chance of it failing even more. so jrf and i with paolo and others (rod was scared shitless though) braced ourselves for the ride. paolo was quite experienced but jrf was visibly more scared than me. so when we got to the top and was released, putting us through high g-forces, my apprehension quicky vanished. it wasnt scary at all. the whole ride. the only part which is quite scary is the reverse corkscrew when i feel that im about to fall. in fact i was screaming "is this it?" most of the time and got the chance to belt out a " i love you ........!" while waiting to be dropped from the reverse drop. all in all it was quite nice and jrf was saying " di ako makahinga nung unang drop at kung mas matagal pa yun nahimatay na ako".

after that i saw a wishing well. and of course i took the opportunity. what do i have to lose, right?

most of our time was spent on water-rides though. riogrande and log jam put us from dry, well-dressed individuals to sloppy, wet-all-over, kids. seriously, we were wet from top to bottom. its like we went for a swim. and why shouldnt we be? jrf was scooping water while in the log jam and dishing it out at us and when we are in riogrande, we'd break out of our seatbelts so that we can absorb the full fury of the falls.

what really scared me half to death wasnt the space shuttle though, it was the wheel of fate (above). if you look at my picture, i appear calm and relaxed. but if you where there, you'd see my shaking knees and my hard as glue grip on the pedestal. wheel of fate was 10x scarier than space shuttle. i wonder how'd i feel if there was someone else there with me? would i still be scared?

anyway, i hope we go back to ek again, this time with more of the barkada. and this time, with more spare clothes and a towel.

caylabne moments

2005-04-01T15:59:00.000+08:00

finally got to go on a trip again with my relatives at caylabne bay resort somewhere in cavite. quite nice, id say. although the lack of girls my age was very disapointing.

If you look at the picture beside this text, you'll see me visibly shaken by the lack of female hotties in skimpy bikinis. hehe. but of course im just joking. im not into that stuff and besides my time at the beach was mostly spent on thinking...thinking about her...

the resort itself was not that bad. but quite expensive. p6000 a day my auntie said and we stayed there for 3 days/2 nights. there's a beach full of spiky rocks with artificial white sand in the shores. besides it are 2 swimming pools where we spent most of our swimming time because of the aforementioned rocks in the beach.

i wish that my friends were there with me because I was really sad. no one seems to notice it..even my friends are casual about it..but deep inside of me im really devastated..devastated from something that i was expecting...well even though i expected it it still hurt..but enough of that..

we did saw a filipino celebrity, cherry pie-picache, while I was writing my name in kanji (above) and looking at the sad sky (above also).

i comforted myself by thinking of things that could have been..things that may never be..although i still hope..as against my friend's wishes that i abandon my useless plight. love is love i guess and my heart knows better in this instance.

still quite happy though. i just hope she finds who she's looking for. i still trust no one other than myself for the job though. no one. well who am I to decide on the matter? just a silly japanese boy deprived of usual life's graces but still very fortunate. look at me above, im happy, right?

i hope we go to a resort again..somewhere remote.away from civilization...with my friends...so that I can hope once again that while im sitting on the sand, someone is right there beside me...wishful thinking? well nothing wrong in wishing.

the end has come

2005-03-30T11:52:00.000+08:00

just some update on the risk thing I was talking about before. Well, it turned out just as expected...oh well...valiant try I suppose...

But defeat doesnt change what I feel and I dont want this feeling to fade even though it can never be fulfilled...ps2 na lng nga.

a comment from a good friend...

2005-03-16T18:19:00.000+08:00

fear sets the men apart from the boys. and success is never achieved without taking a risk
- Landon Rañada

Well I say to that: Amen!

But...I'm still way out of my league...
Regardless, Im slowly inching my way into inevitable doom...

Don't know what to do...

2005-03-11T17:14:00.000+08:00

there's a song that goes something like:
Please forgive me I know not what I do...
Please forgive me I can't stop lovin' you...
Don't deny me This pain I'm going through...
Please forgive me If I need ya like I do...
Please believe me for what I say is true...
Please forgive me I can't stop loving you...

The message that this song signifies to me is of tremendous importance.

For someone like me who has confidence the size of the moon (not arrogant, though), failing to muster up enough courage to do even the simplest things is frustating. I just do not know what I should do.

If you know the outcome would be negative, would you still take the risk?
If you have so much to gain and so much to lose also in a single move, would you still take the chance?
If your heart tells you something which your mind contradicts, which will you follow?
If someone you love is someone who hates your guts, what recourse can you possibly take?
If the distance of earthly being between two persons is as heaven and earth, can harmony exist?
If defeat is as sure as the sun rises to the east, would you blindly engage into action?

Questions like these are what has been bombarding me for this past few days...should I act?or should I just plain concede? After all, I know the outcome...but still...what if? What if by some sort of miracle I have even the slightest bit of chance?

Well it doesnt really matter what my chances are. I know what I feel and let no man tell me otherwise. If defeat is what I deserve, then let me be defeated.

I'd rather go the way of the loser than go the way of someone who failed to take a brave stance for something so dear to him. I will spring into action, ignorant of the expected result, just so I can confess...just so I can express......just so I will not look back to this time when I've become older, thinking: "What if I took the chance?"

I risk everything so that I may gain everything. My future depends on this, I wish myself all the luck in the world. After all, Im going to need all the luck I can get...

Anato no koto wa suki desu...ya chigau...suki janai...aishitemasu...totemo aishitemasu...kore wa honto no koto desu..uso wa arimasen..komata mono desu ne kono inochi wa...

Tough times...

2005-03-02T17:31:00.000+08:00

I'm worried about my friend JRF Ibañez:
----- he seems to be in bad shape lately; always thinking and not concentrating on a particular task at hand. Must be love. Love indeed breaks even the most sturdy man.

Rod Vasquez is also out of shape:
----- he's getting chubbier! No love life kasi.

Paolo Nuguid is in distress:
----- I wonder why? Well, love is at it again I suppose.

Reuel Culalic:
----- never mind.

And as for me:
----- well..

America’s leader at the forefront of world problems

2005-02-23T19:08:00.000+08:00

In what was touted as a “routine” visit to Europe, amidst stinging criticism from left-wing extremists, President George W. Bush of the United States of America braved all obstacles and delivered, what I think, was a remarkable policy speech at a conference room in Brussels, Belgium last February 21.

No less than 88 militant, environmental and other finicky groups planned demonstrations for the day. Fortunately, none was reported to have been rowdy or disruptive.

However, the limelight was clearly not on the side of the dissidents but rather on the American leader who, in this time and age of world turmoil due to incessant international terrorism, confidently and assertively finds courage in his own faith to the Almighty to guide him in his duty and responsibility to safeguard not only the lands of the superpower nation but also of the entire world.

I saw most of the speech at cable television, most specifically Fox News, and what struck me the most was the striking moderate tone of the president while delivering his speech. Prior the live feed of the speech, pundits dished out “expert” advice on what the president should do while on his European tour and one of the interviewees claimed that since the United States is the greatest country on Earth (why people say this I still don’t quite comprehend), its leader shouldn’t be out there trying to mend fences with lower countries. Of course he didn’t say exactly that but that was the implied message. Regardless, the president clearly went the route of the peacemaker and tried to reach out to America’s European allies, most of which are in stark contrast to his policies.

“No passing disagreement of governments, no power on Earth will ever divide us."

These outstanding words by the US president summarized the entire speech for me. It means that even in these harsh times where politicking, mud-slinging, and people-pleasing-but-illogical-decision-making (ahem, France) seems to be the order of the day, America and Europe is still the world’s closest allies. They have been like that since the First World War, and they will be until the word “war” ceases to be part of every language’s vocabulary.

With world problems at an almost mind-breaking high – North Korea’s nuclear weapons program; Iraq’s continued instability; the recent Banda Aceh quake which sent out the killer tsunami; the still-existing conflict between Palestine and Israel; Russia’s apparent stalling of democratic proceedings and institutions; Syria’s continued occupation of Lebanon; Iran’s uncooperativeness in nuclear talks; Africa’s poverty problems; the United Nations’ escalating image problem amidst the “oil-for-food” scandal and the recent “forced” resignation of its refugee chief due to sexual allegations; and of course who can forget the growing tension about global warming brought about by record levels of industrial emission – the only way to possibly confront these tremendous obstacles is through a unified and concerted effort by the two most powerful political and economic entities currently in this world: America and Europe.

If Europe’s vaunted leaders do not heed the call of this righteous but unpopular president, then what step can be possibly taken as an alternative? As it is right now, the best option for the world is one which emphasizes this old adage: “If you lead, we will follow.”

Europe, follow America.

WE BEAT BLACK!

2005-02-19T17:20:00.000+08:00

From left to right: BOTTOM; Luigi Sanchez (supporter), Paolo Cuneta, Landon Rañada, Tatos Nuyda. TOP; me, JRF Ibañez, Rod Vasquez, JC Ibañez (not yet White team member), Paolo Nuguid (fan).

February 17, 2005 would go down in the annals of Southville International School and Colleges as the day when the previously unbeaten Black team (led by 1st College Cup MVP Karl Velhagen) was finally defeated by the White Team.

This feat was no small achievement, seeing as the Black team is the undoubted powerhouse team in the league. Also, the White team, clearly outmatched in terms of height, experience, and skill, was able to make critical adjustments through sheer dedication, determination, and most of all, heart. Without a doubt, this victory of the underdog White team over the dominating Black team is the most controversial upset in the short history of the College Cup.

Now, we love the Black team. Most of us favor the Black team to win again the championship, and this is because of several well-founded reasons. Foremost of all the reasons is that the members of the Black team are gentlemen and clean basketball players. Karl Velhagen, Glenn de Leon, Jude Atanacio, Paolo Gregorio, Pipo Amante, Randy Rabiño, Ken Calleon, Pat Kairuz, Jan Baquir, and AJ del Mundo are not only skilled basketball players, but are gracious both in victory and in defeat. We of the White Team, who see ourselves as gentlemen and clean basketball players, find no other team to relate ourselves with than the Black team. And for that, we greatly admire and respect them. Plus, most of them are our close friends.

The victory was a hard-earned one. As the coach of the White team, I was faced with the challenge of finding solutions to the problems posed by the daunting Black ensemble. The Black team is tall but fast, skilled but discplined, great as individuals but tremendous as a team. I looked into the relatively shallow basketball knowledge of mine and I stumbled upon a basic adage of the game: that is defense wins games.

Needless to say, defense was key to our victory. Those who were able to watch the game should attest to that. Of course, I will not divulge the secrets of that strategy but I would say that I give tremendous credit to the White team players (my friends, all) for their unflinching trust.

For my last words:
Dominic Casaus - thanks for being a super-center!
Paolo Cuneta - for being a tremendous defensive stopper!
JRF Ibañez - for being a great slasher and rebounder!
Tatos Nuyda - for playing with intense intensity all throughout!
Landon Rañada - for being our best all-around player!
Beda Realuyo - for being an outstanding point guard!
Rod Vasquez - for being a credible defensive and offensive option!
Josh Callueng - for being a great reliever for the big guys!
and of course...
Reuel Culalic - for making that impossible 3-point shot amidst tight defense and crushing pressure! You are our HERO!

Thanks for this great season, guys!
Until next time...