Pinoy Potter's Chronicles

Wishing my classmate success

2007-11-19T17:33:03Z

Yesterday, I had lunch with a long-lost high school classmate. Ron-J, as we fondly call him during our high school years, is probably one of the smartest if not the smartest guy I've ever met in this generation (and maybe in my lifetime). He is our batch valedictorian, and also part of the UP-CBA team that bagged first place in the 2006 Intercollegiate Finance Competition. I learned that he will be taking his CFA Level 1 this December 2, 2007.

I am really glad that we bumped each other over yahoo messenger, which made our meeting possible. He is still the same Ron-J that we know in our class: smart yet humble. At least I found another person with whom I can seek guidance and tips in the CFA (if ever I decide to take it, which is probably not in the near future).

May Ron-J ace the CFA Level 1 exam this December 2, 2007. Thanks for offering me help for the realization of my future plans. Thank God that your workplace is just one building away from mine.

A Sounding Board Found

2007-11-18T13:59:01Z

A good friend is really rare nowadays, but what are the odds for one to be able to find a friend who is almost identical with your personality (even a few mannerisms and preferred animes) and goals (literally)?

Like I mentioned in my previous blog entries, this year marks the unfolding of a new chapter in my life. Part of that transition is meeting a whole new cast of characters. However, only a few made an effort to make me part of their lives and showed interest in becoming part of mine, and that becomes more evident when the person goes “an extra mile”. One of them came along on a peculiarly good time, and that gratefulness of mine for that person was reinforced with the fact that we have a lot of things in common (in fact, quite identical), and it all started with my job search and “bulalakaw” story.

My struggles seem to continue piling up, mostly goals-related, and a few other personal concerns. Just a while ago, I was able to emit a lot of problems. Had it been another person, he or she would have stopped finding time listening and giving advice to my recurring and growing frustrations. Thanks to this good friend and companion of mine, not only did I have a positive perspective of things that give me pressure, I also met someone who is hopefully willing to be a sounding board during tough times especially in the absence of my family, even if I'm stupid in nature. Haha.

A Special Birthday Greeting

2007-11-15T15:29:31Z

I met a handful of new people from different walks of life this year. Among those people, a few made a difference and made a mark in my life. It happened that today is the birthday of one person that made a mark by inspiring me to pursue a very challenging career in the field of finance. I really value his trust and friendship because he is the very first person that believed in me even if I keep on feeling frustrated because of the challenges that I'm currently experiencing (heck, I even felt and is somehow still feeling that I won't last in this field). He is even more patient than me. Art, as I fondly called him, is really such a noble and helpful friend, even if I've caused him several inconveniences (I've practically lost count). I will always be grateful to him for being there not only as a friend, but as a father figure to me.

On his birthday, I wish him nothing but more intangible blessings, especially those that really matter. I also wish him more health for him and his family, especially her daughter.

May the Lord continue to watch over my friends like Art.

Farewell Jeric

2007-11-14T16:16:14Z

Yesterday afternoon, I received a text message from my friend Joyce Cabalagan stating a bad news about a schoolmate who died in a motor accident yesterday morning. He is Jeric Contreras, one of those that are active in school during our time. He graduated with a degree in AB Philosophy (Cum Laude), and also a TOSSB awardee.

Well, even if he wasn't exactly a close friend, he was a good acquaintance. Even if I do not totally agree with his ways (like participating in local politics), I will remember him for his convictions against mediocre student leadership. At least, he did his share while he was a student and he wasn't indifferent.

May his soul rest in peace. Life is indeed, short. We can never tell if it will be our time. I guess the only thing we could do is to do our best to live life to the fullest. I know that making this a reality will be a daily struggle, but that's just the way it is.

Stamp collecting season once again!

2007-11-09T18:12:27Z

I know some find it overrated when people crave for the new Christmas season drinks of Starbucks Coffee because of stamps in exchange for a daily planner. Yup, it's stamp collecting season once again. For someone who is a frequent customer of Starbucks, this is something that is already a routine. Well, I did look forward to this.

For the record, I think that the previous editions of the planner are better. The 2008 planner is nice, except that it doesn't look formal and is not really something useful for someone who works in a corporate setting. Also, it is actually crazy to spend roughly Php3,000 just for a planner.

However, I know I will not be alone in collecting my stamps. Haha. As of this writing, I only have five stamps, but four of them actually came from my colleagues from the office (thanks to our intern and my principal for being so generous to me). Just a few hours ago, I was actually at Starbucks with my colleagues.

I will not force myself in completing the stamps especially if I will have to rely on my own initiative (and pocket). It's not practical, but with the help of nice friends, I might just be able to get my 2008 planner. I don't mind if I will be able to complete it until January of next year.

Besides, I know a lot more people who are really so darn crazy in completing their stamps soon.

Pre-Long Weekend Drinking Session

2007-11-07T13:32:40Z

Last October 31, we, the MIB associates, spontaneously decided to reward ourselves by having drinks at Masas (Greenbelt 2) after office hours. We took advantage of the long weekend. The drinking session made us discover more about each other, aside from the new loveteams that were formed. I guess it feels good to get to know my colleagues not as officemates, but as carefree persons outside work. These guys are actually fun to be with (well, even while inside the office).

Would you believe that I had the guts to drink beer and liquor even if I have some sort of kidney problems? Thank God I didn't have any problem afterwards. It's just that, well, it's been months since I had my last drinking session with friends. As long as I know how to moderate myself, I know I'll be fine.

Feel free to check out my Multiply and Flickr.

Among Tales of Individual & Corporate Success

2007-11-02T19:13:34Z

I've always been fond of books about individuals and corporations that succeeded and stayed alive amidst adversities. I am actually fond of success stories in general. Whenever I pass by National Bookstore or Fully Booked, I usually browse and briefly scan the books of this kind. One time, I remember standing for like an hour at National Bookstore Powerplant just to scan the book "NeGOsyo: Inspiring Stories of 50 Successful Filipino Entrepreneurs". I tried to learn and see how these entrepreneurs were able to do it. Well, I did like the book in some way, though it turned to be more of a biography of certain individuals that are running big corporations in the Philippines. Only a few individuals in the book are worthy of note because in my own terms, they really worked hard in reaching the path of success. Fully Booked, on its corporate or management section, has several hardbound and paperback editions of the success story of McDonalds, Microsoft, and Google. However, I am more inclined to read more about local individual and corporate success stories.

The success story of my Alma Mater is the very first tale that I have ever read. This, however, did not come in one thick publication. I managed to appreciate the one hundred years of success and growth of my second home for the last eight years because I journeyed with it and witnessed it grow. Even the likes of Raul Roco and Ninoy Aquino can attest to the fact that my Alma Mater survived the extreme of extremes, despite the monastic way of life of its founders. Despite the size of my second home, it managed to post a challenge and be a benchmark in some academic disciplines and fields.

There was one local corporate story that did catch my attention. In fact, this tale was somehow hyped, because it told about the story of a broadcasting giant: Kapitan by Raul Rodrigo. I have not read the book though in one seating, but I managed to read quite a number of pages while I was at Fully Booked Powerplant. Except for the main family featured in this coffee table book, I thought that the roots of the 61-year old broadcasting company were quite something. The book made me realize that in any written corporate history, it is not the "monetized capital" that will be printed first, but the "human capital". Coincidentally, this conforms with Warren Buffett's philosophy that "Money doesn't create man, it is man who creates money". The story was about the foundation of Philippine TV alright, but it boiled down to the success of the corporation, something brought about by the people that took part in its growth. The founder's idealism was also worthy of note.

Until recently, I came across another tale of corporate success. This time, this was a rare story, for the book cannot be bought over-the-counter. The book, titled "Different... From All of the Rest: 25 Years of Corporate Partnership", was indeed, different from all of the rest. The book told about the humble beginnings of a local investment house made of the people, for the people, and by the people; Filipino people to be more specific. This masterpiece was about the roller-coaster ride of the corporation, which was bumpy but fulfilling at the same time because along with the ride are its people, who are also its primary capital in the field of capital itself. What's even more unique about this tale is that it contained different forms of prose (and even poetry). I have always wanted to go where others dared not to go, and this book not only reminded me of this goal (which I actually forgot out of several preoccupations), but also served as proof that I can do it. If only the corrupt leaders of the government can actually read the book, they might learn from it and lead the country into greater heights.

I have always been fond of success stories, but I have some sort of bias with the three tales I've mentioned because somehow, I have been part of them, or I had my own sightings on a portion of their growth and journey.

So far, the first and the second tale, and their account of their success, have already been challenged by quite a number of factors. In fact, they have somehow "fell for it". For the case of the first tale, I must say that in the recent years, it has been investing too much on "physical capital", and not really more on the "intangible capital", which is education and the improvement of its academics (for more details on this, just contact me). Don't get me wrong though, for I will forever be indebted to my Alma Mater and proud that I am a Bedan. The second tale, on the other hand, somehow had a wrong turn recently. Aside from being revenue-conscious, the firm in the second tale became clouded with control and money, to the point that even fate had to give them the hardest lessons they had recently: including the tragedy they became involved in, losing the leadership in their arena, and suffering a net loss for a quarter.

I have only been part of the life of the firm in the third tale recently. I can say for sure that until now, the principles imbibed to us still remain and are still being reminded to us implicitly. I can't say, however, if the firm itself still holds tight to its own ideologies. This still remains to be seen. There are lessons at the course of the firm's journey though that to me, made the firm a bit less courageous, but I really am in no better position to judge them. They've been there for more than a quarter of a century. I, on the other hand, am still in the early stage of my development.

But, thanks to "Different... From All of the Rest", and the other tales like I've come across like "Kapitan" and the story of my Alma Mater, I've realized now, more than ever, that I should invest more in myself, and not what surrounds myself. I hope that soon enough, I can start investing for my own human capital. Sadly, the human capital in me is really risky. In fact, it is "prone to default" or "below investment grade". But, as they say, the higher the risk, the higher the reward. I've promised to a very few people whose opinion and support really counts that I will give them rewards out of their investment in the human capital in me, and not losses. I really hope it can happen.

Isang Paggunita sa Undas

2007-11-01T11:35:21Z

Dinalaw ng aming pamilya ang puntod ng aking lolo sa Manila South Cemetery. Sa kalagitnaan ng aming pagpunta, napansin ko na tila marami pa rin sa ating mga kababayan ay hindi ginugunita sa wastong paraan ang araw na ito. Hindi ba dapat araw ito ng panalangin at pag-alala sa mga mahal natin sa buhay na namayapa na? Subalit marami pa rin ang tila, lihis o baluktot ang paraan ng paggunita ng mahalagang araw na ito.

Sana'y isipin natin kung ano talaga ang ginugunita sa araw na ito. Nawa'y kapiling na ng ating Panginoon ang lahat ng mga namayapang naging bahagi ng ating buhay.

Badminton!

2007-10-27T16:35:37Z

Last Monday, me and my colleagues Kacel and Miss Kathy decided to play badminton for the next day. Keena ,not wanting to miss the fun, decided to join us. We were so excited to the point that I had to rush at Rockwell Powerplant Mall the same evening just to buy a badminton racket.
The next day, we left the office at exactly 6:00PM. Mind you, we had a lot of trouble going to Powersmash Badminton courts. We were standing at the side of Dela Rosa for an hour just to wait for a cab, and it was traffic, but all the troubles were nothing compared to the fun we had, even if we were amateurs in this sport.

We had so much fun. In fact, we decided to play badminton once again. We just had our second time this morning, together with another colleague Roschelle Lim. Well, when Roschelle joined, I realized how amateur I am in this sport. Too bad we didn't have a camera this time.

Badminton is one heck of a sport. At least I now have an alternative to bowling. I hope I'll get to play badminton with my other friends despite our busy schedules.

More photos of my first badminton experience at my Multiply and Flickr.

My own turbulent state

2007-10-22T15:47:33Z

I'm still at the introductory part of Alan Greenspan's eyewitness account of the transformation of the global economy, and at this rate (you know, being busy at my job security and all), I dunno when I'll be able to finish AG's "personal and intellectual legacy".

However, at his introduction, I found certain quotes that I personally consider striking. My apologies if you don't find any economic significance to these quotes. Well, rest assured that the quotes have a direct relationship with economics. It's just that coincidentally, these partly reflect my "psychie", or should I say, my own turbulent state. Haha.

"... All people appear motivated by an inbred striving for self-esteem that is in large part fostered by the approval of others... People have an inbred need to interact with other people. It is essential if we are to receive their approval, which we all seek... What contributes to self-esteem depends on the broad range of learned or consciously chosen values that people believe, correctly or mistakenly, enhance their lives..."

"...We have to perceive life as enjoyable to seek to sustain it. Regrettably, a surge of exuberance sometimes also causes people to reach beyond the possible; when reality strikes home, exuberance turns to fear. Fear is an automatic response in all of us to threats to our deepest of all inbred propensities..."

Post-Glorietta Bombing Thoughts

2007-10-19T14:01:41Z

Photos courtesy of Disney Cute Land:

One heck of a tragic day. I honestly don't know what's in the mind of those who bring nothing but chaos. The thought just gives me the creeps. I usually go to Glorietta, it's my second most preferred mall. What if it happened on a Saturday while strolling or meeting a friend? Or what if my friends and colleagues from the office suddenly decided to have our lunch-out at Glorietta?

May the people behind this chaos find peace after what they did.

Intuition, anyone?

2007-10-18T16:51:57Z

Intuition is "the immediate apprehension of an object by the mind without the intervention of any reasoning process" [Oxford English Dictionary].

Intuition is "1 : Immediate apprehension or cognition without reasoning or inferring 2 : knowledge or conviction gained by intuition 3 : The power or faculty of gaining direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference." [Merriam-Webster]

This very same word is something that I badly need to work on and improve within me. Based on my self-initiated diagnosis and dosage of the reality check drug (which, by the way, turned out to be a bitter pill to swallow), my current sickness is weak intuition. It is the driver that contributes to my current struggle. Understanding the theories and rules in my chosen pursuit are hard enough, but it's a whole lot harder appreciating these in a more intuitive manner.

Unfortunately, the reality check drug can only help me notice or recognize the problem and not really to cure it (not even gradually). I still need to find the right vitamins or supplements in order to gain intermediate intuition or to exercise the intuitive side of my brain.

I'm supposed to be in the "work in process" stage. However, if I were to thoroughly assess myself, I can't say for sure if I'm already in that stage, or if I'm still the same raw material produced by my Alma Mater (note the emphasis on the word in bold). I'm not sure where the problem really lies. Is it because of the weak foundation I had from college? Is it my low capacity utilization? Is it my age? Is it my lack of discipline and complacency (an attitude that I imposed to myself since college)? Is it because of lack of time (the fact that there are only 24 hours a day)? Is it because of my excessive exposure to the internet and boob tube? Is it because I'm in the wrong place, or am I at the right track but doing things the wrong way? Is it because I'm really not smart enough? Or is it most if not all of the above + the possible factors not known to myself?

I dunno. I guess I'm just glad that I'm aware of what the problem really is. It is important for me to work on the problem because I've been wanting to do and pursue certain things successfully with certain people, for myself and people whose opinion and impression really count. After being able to fully recognize the problem, I thought I should do things slowly, but surely. I just hope that I am not and will not be too slow.

Reminiscing Childhood

2007-10-11T15:13:59Z

During one lunch break at the office, we (the new associates of our company) just found ourselves talking about TV shows that we used to faithfully watch when we were kids. To my surprise, we all had the same TV habits when we were younger. All of us were talking about Shaider and all the stuff identified with the defunct japanese action series. From the characters in the persona of Alexis and Annie, up to the unique weapon of Shaider such as the Babylos (whenever he enters the time-space warp) and Bluehawk. We even found ourselves laughing when we reminisced the "zhigi zhigi" theme. At the course of our discussion, I even felt disappointed that I failed to recall Shaider's weapons and dialogues.

Shaider was one heck of a classic. Those were the days when television can be considered as a really good friend. Alexis and Annie made me stay glued to my chair when I was a kid.

That's not all. During that particular lunch break, we just kept on discussing from one TV classic to another. We reminisced the Maskman and Bioman days, as well as the good old animes during our teenage years, including Samurai X.

As of this writing, I've downloaded the soundtrack of the aforementioned TV classics of my younger days. I surely miss the good old days: the days when I have lesser problems and the days when I could afford to be innocent and carefree. Well, it's not like I've managed to stay away from my "immature" side (as evidenced by my neverending fondness of animes such as Pokemon). I just couldn't help but recall the good old days.

Ideal vs Real

2007-10-07T12:57:47Z

How come that whatever is ideal does not conform with what is real? I have always wondered why these two do not get along, be it in reference to a person, thing, or event.

There are people whom you want to get to know and be associated with, but the moment they show their real self to you (which, by the way, is not always negative), somehow your pictured person starts to fade away. It's never a crime to be just the way you are, especially if your real self does not really bring harm to anybody. It's just that, sometimes the real image of the person does not get along with the real you. Weird, but it happens, even if it's not what I wanted. There are times that even if the person tests my patience, I try to accept the person.

I have been a victim of this myself. There are quite a handful of people with whom I managed to create initial rapport, but the rapport was temporary because of certain differences amongst ourselves. In the past, I remember trying to change a part of me to prevent the rapport from fading away, but it didn't work. Believe me, a lot of people parted ways or disconnected with me because the real me is not someone who is ideal to them.

Even in terms of tangible things and certain events in my life. Take for instance my career. I have always been idealistic about succeeding in the arena of finance. In fact, I want to become an investment banker, and who knows, maybe I can become a financial journalist. However, when I started to get a dosage of reality, I never thought that it is so darn difficult. No, I never thought that I will experience difficulties, something my that idealism failed to see.

Why does life have to be so complicated?

I'm just glad that there are a few people who sees me for what I am and accepts me just the same. My sincerest thanks to these people. I just hope that I'll never get tired of either making what is ideal compatible with what is real, or accepting and improving myself and certain circumstances or events in my life based on what is real.

The Warren Buffett Way

2007-09-28T11:07:33Z

This is probably one of the best recently forwarded emails in my inbox.

There was a one hour interview on CNBC with Warren Buffet, the second richest man who has donated $31 billion to charity. Here are some very interesting aspects of his life:

1. He bought his first share at age 11 and he now regrets that he started too late!
2. He bought a small farm at age 14 with savings from delivering newspapers.
3. He still lives in the same small 3-bedroom house in mid-town Omaha , that he bought after he got married 50 years ago. He says that he has everything he needs in that house. His house does not have a wall or a fence.
4. He drives his own car everywhere and does not have a driver or security people around him.
5. He never travels by private jet, although he owns the world's largest private jet company.
6. His company, Berkshire Hathaway, owns 63 companies. He writes only one letter each year to the CEOs of these companies, giving them goals for the year. He never holds meetings or calls them on a regular basis. He has given his CEO's only two rules.
Rule number 1: do not lose any of your share holder's money.
Rule number 2: Do not forget rule number 1.
7. He does not socialize with the high society crowd. His past time after he gets home is to make himself some pop corn and watch Television.
8. Bill Gates, the world's richest man met him for the first time only 5 years ago. Bill Gates did not think he had anything in common with Warren Buffet. So he had scheduled his meeting only for half hour. But when Gates met him, the meeting lasted for ten hours and Bill Gates became a devotee of Warren Buffet.
9. Warren Buffet does not carry a cell phone, nor has a computer on his desk.

His advice to young people: "Stay away from credit cards and invest in yourself and Remember:
A. Money doesn't create man; it is the man who created money.
B. Live your life as simple as you are.
C. Don't do what others say, just listen to them, but do what you feel good.
D. Don't go for brand name; just wear those things in which u feel comfortable.
E. Don't waste your money on unnecessary things; just spend on those who really are in need.
F. After all it's your life so why give chance to others to rule your life."

I did a little research on the veracity of the forwarded email. So far, everything seems to be for real. No wonder he is such a blessed man. More than his managerial and finance skills, I really wish that I can have the same discipline as him. Seems like there's another person included in my "Who I Want to Meet" list.

Previously, I mentioned about two experiences that humbled me. This time, this forwarded message about Warren Buffett served as another humbling reminder. It was kinda timely. This past few days, I have again been feeling insecure of certain people at my age whose learning curve seem to become steeper and steeper, and whose career phase seem to be at a quick pace. Knowing how far they have leaped in the road to success kept me bothered these past few days.

I thought that I was able to cure my insecurity, but to no avail. However, this forwarded email by my current boss seems to be a good partial cure. After reminding myself with a humbling stanza from Desiderata, the story of Warren Buffett seems to be a good vitamins for the soul.

My issue with my biggest competition remains, as I mentioned in my previous blog entry. I really hope that time will be able to minimize all of the insecurities I feel, the Warren Buffett way.

And for the record: I still have no internet access at home because my PC is screwed. However, I felt the need to drop by an internet cafe here at Ayala just to post this.

Missing the Champions' Victory; Searching my own Feat

2007-09-26T15:09:47Z

You might accuse me of redundancy. Why say "feat" if I am referring to the "champions"? Well, I guess that's just the way it is. The San Beda Red Lions are champions already, but apart from being champions, they really won, not only the most-coveted basketball trophy, but also the hearts of the Bedans all over the world. To be honest, I feel sorry for myself because I am preoccupied with my work. I had to miss the red-filled stadium and the indian yell. I had to miss being with my Bedan friends shouting out of joy. Lastly, I had to miss singing the Bedan Hymn. Geesh, I can't even record the news on primetime and late-night television about the championship because my computer crashed last night.

My sincerest congratulations to San Beda Red Lions for bagging the championship trophy in the 83rd season of NCAA.

I had to miss the games because I am still at the early stage of my own battle in life: the battle for a successful career.

Speaking of my own battle, when will I ever succeed in conquering the first stage of this prolonged battle? A lot of my friends now have made their major leap in moving on to the next stage of their respective battles, but I am still at the positioning point.

The following are my favorite lines and phrases from one of my most favorite poems ever, the Desiderata by Max Ehrmann's

...If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time...

However, even if I do my best to remind myself of this line, I can't help but feel insecure at times.

Want to know the real hard part of it? The biggest threat in succeeding to this chosen battle of mine is not others. Neither my friends that are making the leap, nor colleagues or people I know from the same industry succeeding in the finance and corporate ladder. The biggest threat is no one else but MYSELF. Specially, the threats within me are my insecurities, my changing moods, and my brain which seems to be running out of space to accommodate more knowledge.

When will I ever claim feat in my own battle?

Humbling Experiences

2007-09-16T16:58:25Z

If you think I had enough dosage of reality check at my current workplace, then you are so wrong.

Last Thursday, I was given an invitation by an investment banker who believes in my potential to attend the Manila Info Session of Columbia Business School at SGV, Ayala. It is one of the most formidable MBA schools in the United States of America. The likes of Washington Sycip, founder of Asian Institute of Management and SGV, and Arthur Ty, the man behind the leadership of Metrobank, were a few notable alumni of the said school. Of course, my investment banker friend also came from this school.

Excited and curious, I didn't hesitate to attend the scheduled info session. It was a really informative session. In fact, the Admissions Officer wasn't simply selling the school, but also the idea of preparing an aspirant to improve his chances and be ready for the life of Graduate School.

However, when the alumni were asked to share about their daily life at Columbia Business School, my "excessive" idealism was suddenly shut down by reality. Pursuing further studies in a competitive environment requires heavy ammunitions and major retooling. It's never enough to get a superior score in GMAT, have an outstanding professional recommendation, and to simply have the money to pay for the continuing education.

Suddenly, I admired law students who had to suffer sleepless nights just to pass their recitations. I suddenly admired journalists who had to cut on their hours of sleeps just to get a 3-minute story done (and probably contribute to the ratings). More importantly, I suddenly admired businessmen who never seem to run out of business and management issues. I suddenly had high regards to investment bankers who always go home late just to finish a company's public offering.

I have always been vocal about the flaws of my undergraduate degree (which is giving me a difficult time in keeping up to the competitive environment of my company), but thanks to the Columbia Business School Info Session, I realized that my current problems are just the beginning. There are definitely more to come, if I seriously want to have a successful career.

In addition, while I fancy completing the three levels of the Chartered Financial Analyst exams, it's not a "must do" for me. However, I am more than sure that I will pursue an MBA education, regardless of the timing. It can be here in the Philippines, or abroad, hopefully at the United States. Too ideal, but there's nothing wrong in dreaming. Since I want to become an investment banker (and maybe consider becoming a financial journalist), I felt that it is really important for me to have an MBA degree from a very reputable school.

In this new and difficult chapter of my life, I already had two strikes of reality check. These recent events definitely humbled me. In fact, it looks like I can't go back to my old confident ways. San Beda was like just a small pond in this huge world, yet I used to think that I rule a kingdom.

Well, it pays to have at least someone who is already at the peak of success to believe in me. I owe that investment banker friend of mine a lot. I will probably not be humbled and I would have not seen the light if not for him. The funny thing is, he is encouraging me to get my career in shape so that I will have a fair chance in getting a slot at Wharton MBA Program of the University of Pennsylvania where the likes of Mar Roxas, Manny Pangilinan, and Lance Gokongwei. I was like, "Whoaah! Now that's being TOO AMBITIOUS!". I told him that there will only be 1% to 5% chances of me getting a chance there. He reacted, "at least it's not zero".

All I can say now is, I am really humbled by the recent turn of events and experiences I had since I graduated. I am not sure if these experiences will wake-up the sleeping serious side of me, but I hope it will. No more playing games and fooling around.

The Inevitability of Change

2007-09-09T15:51:14Z

I just watched High School Musical 2. Taking out some of the exaggerated choreography, I was able to relate with the musical, that is why I was glued to my bed the whole time. I never really experienced that kind of summer, more so the kind of "teenagehood" that the cast had. However, I surely felt nostalgic and a bit envious. I suddenly wished that I can turn back time. A few years back, the only things that matter to me aside from doing good enough in school are to have fun and to make friends. When I was in high school, my day used to be complete after playing volleyball, hanging out in school to kill some time, or after beating my classmates to a Pokemon Battle through Nintendo Game Boy Color. I used to break my voice box shouting at the NCAA games. Shallow, but those already make my day. There was more pressure to deliver during College, but I felt that it wasn't really that difficult all in all. I had my failures and misfortunes in my tertiary years, but those are incomparable to the times that I was so lax.

But now, a lot of things have changed, and are continuously changing.

More Toil, Less Comfort
Suddenly, I found myself out of my comfort zones (and trying to find a new one). I used to take things lightly in school. Back then, be it a defense, exam or major quiz, I take things lightly because I used to have this mindset that I will pass and ace whatever is ahead of me (well, the school made things easy for me, but that's another story). Now, taking things lightly will be detrimental to my survival in this new chapter of my life. If I fail "this" one, I might have trouble getting the grips of my career. I might just not attain what I really want to become. In short, I can't mess up things. Also, someone out there is expecting me to do good. Someone believed in me for the first time, and I can't afford to fail for that someone. (Want to know who that someone is? Ask me via ym).

More Reality, Less Idealism
In relation to the previous paragraph, it is important to note that prior to my entry to the new chapter of my life, I've had a lot plans. I was so idealistic. However, when I had a peek of the real world of work and challenges, I had to change some aspects of my plans. I tried to stick to my goals, but I also became less idealistic in a sense that I had to dose my idealism with what reality showed me.

More Sacrifice, Less Spending
My Mom plans to have an early retirement. She intends to file her retirement letter before the year ends. Sadly, the company will likely not give my Mom anything. The other sad part is that my Mom failed to save a huge amount for retirement. That's why I may have to participate in paying for the family's expenditure. My lifestyle may have to change, gradually.

More Parting Ways, Less Time With Friends
Yup, more friends of mine are gradually becoming busier with their own lives. I have always been sad about this, and these friends are part of the comfort zones that I was referring to. This has consistently been part of my rants, but this time, those that are compelled to be distant and mind their own problems and preoccupations are increasing, literally. These days, I am already happy if someone remembers me, or asks for my thoughts. That is why whenever my friends need my presence, I try to make miracles so I won't miss the opportunity of being reunited with them. This is what really made me feel nostalgic after watching High School Musical 2.

The inevitability of change is usually hard to accept, especially if we are never prepared for it.

I'm Simpsonized!

2007-09-03T14:14:41Z

I became a certified Springfield passerby! I'm really not good-looking when animated. :D

Got this from Johann's blog, who found it through his friend. Join Springfield here.

A Trivial Week (for me)

2007-09-01T11:32:20Z

Last Monday, the Philippines (well, at least for the case of Visayas and Mindanao) witnessed a lunar eclipse. I felt deprived because despite the fact that our office is located at the topmost floor of our building, I failed to see such a scientific phenomenon because it was too cloudy. I had to satisfy myself with the media coverage of the lunar eclipse at Cebu, Davao and Basilan.

***

Last Wednesday, I was really laughing when I saw the news clip featuring Willie Revillame crying with no tears at his noontime show. I even had to look for the full version of the video over the internet (and found Willie's drama here). What's even more surprising is that he uttered several remarks that are not even related to the issue. He was so mad at Joey De Leon for cracking jokes about the controversial Wilyonaryo Scam.

It didn't stop there. Last Thursday, Joey De Leon naughtily reacted to Willie's shenanigans at his noontime show. He advised the latter to "explain before complain", and he teased the Senate to investigate on the "Hello Papi" first and not "Hello Garci". And you guessed it, the exchange of stupid words continued and will probably continue. Has the "real" issue been solved or put to rest? No. Did anyone win from this? No one. The biggest losers, in fact, are the network war fanatics and the masses who rely on variety shows to change their misfortunes.

***

Last Thursday. the government broke out the news that the Philippine economy grew by 7.5%. Just like what was expected, various economists and professionals from the financial community reacted differently. A number of them are surprised, even questioning the accuracy and integrity of the data, while others are optimistic. NEDA predicted that GDP will be anywhere between 6.1-6.7%, while polls conducted to various economists resulted a 6.3% prediction. I am not certain what really caused the huge jump in the capital formation component of the GDP, while government spending wasn't really that surprising since the country staged the Philippine midterm elections last March.

I am really overwhelmed with this. However, I don't know if the government can sustain it. The tax collecting agencies of the government are below their revenue targets, and they have been doing a lot of privatization to attain if not outperform their target budget deficit of Php63 billion.

Lastly, as Ricky Carandang puts it, has the economic growth been felt (or will it ever be felt) by the masses?

****

Our company sponsored a workshop on "Total Image Enhancement". The first part of the program was held two weeks ago, while the second part was conducted yesterday. It was spearheaded by Abigail Arenas-De Leon.

It was really an informative session. However, what really made me laugh is when she said that "even men have to cleanse, tone, moisturize, and protect". Some of the "rituals" of women should be done by men. I can't tell if I will be able to abide by this procedure in order to have what Abigal considers as a normal face for men.

****

After work. I met with my friend Joyce Cabalagan to catch up with each other. She was the first Bedan with whom I was able to bond after graduation. We shared countless stories to each other, that we ended up leaving Starbucks 6750 at 4:00 AM. We even went to a nearby 24-hour convenience store after staying at Starbucks. It was like we haven't seen each other for a year.

I guess it pays to miss the presence of some friends. Reuniting with them will be a whole lot more fun.

****

For the OFWs, bloggers, internet enthusiasts, or those that might be interested, watch the stint of Benj Espina at Media In Focus. It was aired last Thursday at ANC. The topic of the current affairs program is about the controversial column of Malu Fernandez that irked the Overseas Filipino Workers all over the world. The episode also discussed the fairness of the public's reaction, the line between opinion and discrimination, and the responsibility of bloggers and the people in the online community. (Videos here: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

My delayed take on the issue? Well, it's easy to say that the people that commented could have been more responsible in reacting to the issue. However, I can't really say if I could help it. As Ricky Carandang said, the moment that Malu Fernandez wrote that controversial article, she wanted to be read and she should have expected reactions. And just like everyone, being in a job that monitors the economic development of the country for our company's business, I say that the OFWs do not deserve such kind of "humor". Most OFWs are either parents wanting for a secured future for their children, or sons and daughters wanting to give their parents a better life that they deserve.

Opportunities

2007-08-26T15:59:22Z

Yesterday, I watched Evan Almighty with my geeky friend Jerrold (and I'm guessing that he will be proud of that adjective :-p) at Robinson's Place. Prior to meeting Jerrold, I bumped with another friend (and college classmate of whom I hold very high regard) Benjie at the escalator. Since Jerrold decided not to show up immediately (even if he was at the mall on time), Benj and I had the chance to quickly talk about life at work. He seems to be happy at Landbank Head Office, while the rest of his gang are taking up Law at San Beda. Damn, I miss school and my classmates! I really hope I will be reunited with my Bedan friends (maybe at the NCAA Season 83 Finals).

As I was saying, I watched the second installment of Bruce Almighty. While I find the way they "animated" the flood as pathetic, and even if the humor is just average for my taste, I believe it was able to send the proper message to the moviegoers. Like I always say, I am a no good moviegoer because I can't give a good review of any film. As long as I like the moral of the plot, It's fine by me.

There's a particular piece by "God" in the film that really struck me. It was a part of his conversation with Evan's wife. It goes something like this:

"If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?"

I can't really say much about the veracity of that quoted line. It's just that, I somehow feel that God did give me the opportunity for my prayers to be realized, especially those that I've been praying for the longest time, and also, those that I prayed for during the Simbang Gabi last year. For instance, I did pray for my first job to be better than the typical first job that a fresh graduate would usually get for the simple reason that it will accelerate my career. Right now, I would say that the opportunity is at the palm of my hands. It's just that, I am currently overwhelmed with my current job, and surviving is sure to be difficult. It's probably not the same as the job of my colleagues, but it sure is giving me a nose bleed. I've been in the company for like six weeks, and the feeling is extremes. I feel pressured and overwhelmed, yet privileged and grateful at the same time. If not for my "batchmates" in the office, it would have been more difficult.

I also asked God to help me fix some of the bridges that I burned, and at the same time, give me a new chance to build new bridges. This particular prayer was like months (and even years) in the making, but God gave me not what I exactly asked from him, but the opportunities for the realization of my prayers. In fact, just this year, I've built several new bridges, and maintaining these is now up to me. Now, I appreciate prayers more. Hopefully, I can give more meaning to my daily prayers.

Another moral of the film is for us to do one small Act of Random Kindness (ARK) at the time. This is really difficult, but I'll try.

****

Congratulations to Ralph Michael B. Dator, a really good friend from High School, for passing the June 2007 Nursing Licensure Exams. Being one of Michael's first Bedan friends, I am really so proud of him. I pray for a successful career ahead of him, and may he be a blessing to those who will need him most in his chosen profession.

What a Journey!

2007-08-14T14:31:47Z

I would like to give my sincerest thanks to all those who remembered, especially to my family, relatives, former classmates, officemates, and friends. This day isn't really festive, but their greetings surely mean a lot. As my own little way of commencing my 22nd year of existence, I had a little treat to my closest officemates.

However, as I unfold my life into another year, it seems that a major challenge is coming my way. This time, I would say that this will be one of the most difficult if not the most difficult problem that I will have to courageously win. I know the Lord will not give us a predicament that we can never win, but I'll try to be strong and find the solution to this. I just hope that the Lord will not make things unimaginably difficult for me.

I humbly and sincerely thank the Lord for everything. It was really such a unique journey. It's been twenty-two years of laughter, pain, failures, achievements, despair, and love. Honestly, I can't imagine that I survived. I sincerely thank the Lord for the colorful twists and turns of my life. Even my 21st year was a blast, with the closing of a major chapter and opening a new one. I am most grateful to the Lord for blessing me with intangibles, like the gift of family and friends (especially new friends). As for my wish, it's nothing more except for me to get over this upcoming major challenge in my life.

Tribute to the Passionate Youth of Today

2007-08-06T14:26:55Z

The new chapter of my life is really on the rocks, though recent occurrences are somewhat becoming favorable. However, at the middle of the roller-coaster ride of this new chapter, I met a a lot of passionate people who are of my age. In fact, as early as my job hunting days, I've meet quite a handful of fresh graduates that are pretty much serious with their goal of getting a reputable job, the most admiring of which are those that applied for management training programs of certain companies. In addition, sometimes I can't help but wonder what happened to my batchmates in high school and college. I have lost track with them, especially my friends. Some people I know are now working, while some are pursuing further studies.

Together with me at work is an economics graduate from UP. Despite the intellectual and professional struggles that we are experiencing at the company, she manages to stay composed. In fact, she delivers at the most unimaginable situations. Right now, I can say that we are partners (even on crime, haha). Hands down to my new partner at work. For the last 5 days, we managed to put up a sound forecast of something assigned to us, thanks to our teamwork. Two other young people joined the company last Wednesday, but due to our preoccupation with work, I really can't give my fair assessment about them. Nonetheless, I know they are very hungry and willing to learn. Most of the company's frontroom and backroom people are also young people. Mind you, a couple of those young people are Chartered Financial Analysts (Level 1). I hope that I will be granted a space in this competitive field that I have chosen.

During the Starfish Awards night, I met another twenty young people that are very vigorous in making a difference. Three of them became acquaintances. Reading their essay entries makes me think that I should not give up despite the troubles because they have experienced more challenges and unimaginable stories of hardships as early as their younger days. I am actually not surprised that I didn't win the top prize of the nationwide competition. Even putting grammar and composition aside, the unique life-changing stories of these young people are all winners. I thought that my own dwellings are already extraordinary, but the Starfish event made me realize that a lot of young people are hoping to make a minimal difference in this world, just like the "Starfish story".

At my very short Game KNB stint, I befriended an incoming PhD Optical Science student at University of Arizona. At the age of 24, he had a Master's Degree in Physics from UP and is currently at the United States to pursue his PhD as a scholar. A gifted and blessed fellow indeed. I am just glad that I have known someone like him in my lifetime. No wonder he became the winner in our Game KNB episode. What even made me admire him is the fact that he doesn't explicitly brag his intelligence. Humility is all over him.

A frequent reader of my blog of is of the same age happened to be idealistic in the field of mainstream finance, specifically in the field of investment banking. I got the chance to meet him in person and I would say that we are friends now. Surprisingly, he managed to give me a big hand when I was solving a certain task at work. According to him, my passion towards finance and investment banking, and also my idealism, drew himself to me. When in fact, whenever we converse, he seems to be more knowledgeable about the industry than me. I can tell that he has more of what it takes to survive the finance and investment banking industry.

Of course not everybody will be fortunate enough in getting stability and a sense of achievement soon. I have friends who have their own struggles like me. However, as long as the flame of determination remains despite the odds, their destiny to shine will come in God's time. (Easier said than done, haha!).

I met all these passionate young people within the span of one month or so. To be honest, I am overwhelmed after meeting all of them. I guess God had a purpose for making my paths cross with them. Somehow, I am reminded that a lot of people will be better and less than myself, and those that are better have reached their stature because they have what it takes, and they have turned their potential into something kinetic.

This blog entry is a tribute to the hardworking and passionate youth of today.

It's Complicated

2007-08-01T13:37:21Z

Nope, I'm not talking about my status in relationships, but my current job. While I may have been lucky since last week in terms of tangible aspects, my career is on the rocks.

I really wish to elaborate on this complication, but there are some things that are better left unsaid. One thing I can share, however, is the fact that I've been burned out these days and yet, I have not delivered or accomplished what I am supposed to do at work. In addition, my workplace is quite stiff on the professional aspect. One can't afford to be too me It's as if I'm going to have a death sentence on the report's supposed deadline. In fact, whenever you see me at work or at Ayala, you will notice that I'm disturbed, bothered, and pressured.

This goes to show that guts can only do so much. Sometimes, you really need to have the skill. In the absence of skill, attitude can help but the filling of the gap must be done. Right now, I am at that stage, yet, there's a pressure to fill the gap soon (yup, soon as in tomorrow, or as soon as the situations will require you to spit it out). Miserable, isn't it?

But hey, I have to be strong. I'll try to be strong.

Meeting Edu Manzano @ Game KNB?

2007-07-29T08:22:20Z

During my Deal or No Deal stint last year, Kris Aquino asked me before cuing for a commercial break, "Game Na?", and I briefly replied, "Game Na!". She suddenly said, "noontime yon".

Who would have thought that after a year, I will be given the chance to play at Pilipinas, Game KNB? In my previous blog entry, I revealed that last June 22, 2007, I underwent the screening for the said show. I have not heard a word from the staff after three weeks. They told us that they will be informing us within three weeks if we qualified to play. Since three weeks have passed, I thought that I didn't qualify to play, and I kinda had the feeling that I only got 6 out of 10 questions correct during the screening. Until last Monday, I received a text message from the show's contestant coordinator, saying that I qualified to play for the game show. I was scheduled to play the following day.

Come July 24, 2007, I arrived at the studio excited without much expectations. My thumb mark and photo was taken by the staff for their records. I had to wait for like three hours before the taping formally started.

I made it to the atras-abante round. Unfortunately, I had two very smart contenders. One of them is Carlo Samson, a UP alumnus and a former instructor who was given a scholarship grant at University of Arizona for a PhD in Optical Science. The other contender is My, a high school teacher. Of course, I did hope that I will get the chance to play for the jackpot round, and that I have a more immediate need for the potential winnings that the show could give. However, I also believe that My and Carlo deserve their winnings. Carlo Samson is really a very talented and blessed person. Among the ten contenders for that episode, Carlo is the closest to me because we were literally together during the screening. He was just next to me in the very long line. I will be more than happy for him if he will really succeed and soar to greater heights with his chosen profession.

As for Edu Manzano, well, he was really such a hilarious and naughty host. He really knows how to make us feel comfortable. He will not make you feel intimidated. He knows how to crack jokes and can make you laugh even at yourself. Though Carlo was his favorite in the episode, I am just glad that Edu made me feel that I am smart myself and that I can put up a great fight.

Please watch my slightly humiliating yet fun and humbling stint at Pilipinas, Game KNB? tomorrow, July 30, 2007. It will be aired 11:30 AM on ABS-CBN after Boy & Kris and before Wowowee.