I joined James Betia’s (aka Journeying James) Contest for the free race kit, and I just got the information Friday night while I was in SM Mall of Asia with my friend Ziggy while waiting for Running Diva. Without thinking twice I told Ziggy that I need to go home at 10pm because I have a fun run early Saturday morning. I need this race because it’s FREE! And it’s part of my training.

I woke up at 3am early on Saturday morning, without even knowing where in Alabang Town Center is the starting line. So I just follow the couple that I saw because they are also wearing running attire. And it was a success! The starting line is near Rustan’s Supermarket at Alabang Town Center.

I saw few people from Takbo.ph and some of my few friends that I met in Atulayan Island in Naga City. It’s nice to run from a different location, and it’s not too crowded. The race route was inside Ayala Alabang Village, few up hills but mostly composed of flat course.

My goal for this run is just to run at my own pace and finish the course without walking. And to my surprise, as I approach the last water station where I saw Ms. Nao, she told me that I was the 2^nd female to pass by for the 5k distance. I was so overwhelmed when she informed me that I was running for 2^nd place. I finish my 5k with a time of 36:45; I am not really at peace with the result because during the awarding they are mixed up with the result for the 5k category.

Overall I am just thankful that they gave me the same price, and for the official result I was in 3^rd place for the 5k category. I am thankful for the free race kit, 3^rd place on the 5k category, and to the race organizers that are very considerate and open when I told them that I was on 3^rd place after they announced the winners for the 5k category.

Race Bib - got it from JourneyingJames ContestRun with the Light 2011

Prices - 3rd Place Women's 5k Category

Join us! When you get to be part of a huge event where running groups, athletic teams, health-minded social, commercial, and caring communities will merge and synergize, while investing in a worthy cause, you’ve already won! Let’s join hands helping change lives and inspiring our youth. We at LIFELINE Foundation Support Team, Inc. invite you to take part in what is simultaneously a worthy cause and one of the biggest running events in the South this summer. We invite you to this year’s RUN4LIFE 2011 RUN FOR A CAUSE on May 15, 2011 at Filinvest Westgate, Alabang.

Mark MAY 15, 2011 in your calendars.

Registration period has begun and is up until May 6, 2011.

We at LIFELINE Foundation Support Team, Inc. invite you to take part in what is simultaneously a worthy cause and one of the biggest running events in the South this summer. We invite you to this year’s RUN4LIFE! RUN FOR A CAUSE on May 15, 2011 at Filinvest Westgate, Alabang.

After RUN4LIFE 2010’s huge success last July 2010, and we’re expanding this year!

We received numerous positive feedback from our runners, sponsors, and other participants, and asked for the next run.  Well, here we are.

The proceeds of this year’s fun-run will go to the following Lifeline Foundation initiatives and supported projects:

• Satellite School Program
• Patient of the Month and Medical Missions

• Community Library
• Youth Soccer Program

We invite you to partner with us in our efforts toward the betterment of people’s lives by participating in RUN4LIFE 2011 RUN FOR A CAUSE.  There will be four legs in the run: 3k, 5k, 10k, and 16k.  We’re opening the race to everyone:  young and old, beginners and experts, enthusiasts and supporters, individuals and groups.

We are expecting participation from the large establishments, institutions, and communities, and running groups in the vicinity.  So tell your friends, family, neighbors, team mates, colleagues – tell your village!  This is indeed a praiseworthy objective to put together our time, energies, and resources for.

   YOU MAY REGISTER ONLINE AT:    http://www.ineedalifeline.org/run4life/    OR
                                                 
REGISTER IN PERSON AT OUR REGISTRATION PARTNERS:

    ·         Chris Sports

              – Chris Sports 3/F SM City The Annex (+632 441-1889 and +632 441-1075)
– Chris Sports 4/F Market! Market! @ The Fort (+632 886-7467 and +632 886-7468)
– Chris Sports SM Megamall 2F Bldg. B (+632 633-4946 and +632 633-1659)
– Chris Sports 2F Glorietta 3 (+632 818-6124 and +632 818-6136)
– Chris Sports Mall of Asia Main Mall 2/F (+632 556-0260 and +632 556-0261)

·         Lifeline Foundation Headquarters
#86 Aguirre Ave., BF Homes Parañaque (+632.836.2514)

·         Sujiivana Salon
The Serenity Place, Westgate Center, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang,
Muntinlupa City (+632.771.2386 to 87)

·         Guhit kamay
G/F Cinema Area Alabang Town Center, Zapote Rd., Alabang, Muntinlupa City

REGISTRATION FEES:

·         3k  course – P450           ·         10k course – P550
·         5k  course – P450           ·         16k course – P550

* Fee is inclusive of singlet and race number.
* Singlet availability is subject to a first register, first serve basis.
* An on-site registration will be open on the race day at 4:00am,
but no guarantee on the availability of race kits.

About Lifeline Foundation

LIFELINE Foundation Support Team, Inc. is a non-stock, non-profit organization made up of doctors, nurses, dentists, educators, musicians, engineers, counsellors, graphic artists and writers who are all friends living in the city of Manila, dedicated to the relief of the oppressed and the empowering of the victim-minded.  We began with a suicide prevention hot-line in 2003, and within the same year started giving free medical, dental assistance, along with free food and groceries, clothes and blankets to several Mangyan tribes of Mindoro. As Filipinos we began to sense a greater call to a global responsibility to the human need.  We were proud to send a mission in December 2005 to war-torn Rwanda in Africa – third world helping third world, proving we have a lot to give.

Since then, our foundation has given birth to several initiatives to help empower and change people’s lives: Medical & Wellness Outreach Missions to different barangays and municipalities in the Metro extending up to the provinces providing free medical consultations and medicines to several hundred policemen, firefighters, tanods, barangay workers, traffic enforcers, sanitation workers and their families; Patient of the Month program, where we sponsor surgery, therapy or other treatments to people who cannot afford it, to restore them to productivity once more; Animal Welfare school tours; Satellite School program for the underprivileged children of Barangay BF, Adoption Advocacy, Prison Cottage Industries, and many more. Get to know more about Lifeline Foundation Support Team Inc. by visiting http://www.ineedalifeline.org

 

I decided to run at Takbo.ph because it was I’m a member of the organization, and of course I don’t want to miss this event. It was opened for 2,000 runners, limited slots only.

This is my 2^nd race event after 3 months of no run. I’m excited because I can finally run at Filinvest Alabang. New route for me, and I did not expect anything from the route but all I know that this is a road race.

The gun start for 5kms is 6:10pm. And we’re late for 1 minute. So we’re the last one who crossed the starting line. I was with Daniel and Clarence. As I crossed the starting line, Sir Jinoe saw me walking and he shouted at me, “Takbo na! Naka takbo.ph singlet ka pa naman tapos naglalakad ka!” I laughed to what he said. I started the run slowly; the race for that night was very nice because it’s not hot. And the wind breeze was cool. One thing that I did not expect from this run is the up hills. I thought everything was flat course. But at the end I was able to push myself and manage not to walk for my 5k run. And my finishing time is 34:34. I am satisfied with the result. As I reached the finish line, I was so thirsty. I did not hydrate myself to push myself and I am doing it as a part of my training. At the finish line, there’s a Pocari Sweat booth for the finishers, multi sport magazine, and certificate for the finisher, Gardenia bread and a Magnolia drink.

I enjoyed the run, and the photo booth. The entire race was fully organized and Congrats to Boss Jinoe and to all the volunteers and crew of Takbo.ph, you did a great job! I am looking forward for the next takbo.ph run!

Aristocrat Food - For Purchase

Sponsor: GSM Blue

Gardenia Raisin Bread

Chris Sports

Thanks to Junrox for this shot

Photo booth One

Photo Booth Two

Thanks to Marvin “Nutty Bunny” Opulencia and Junrox “tigerboy” Roque for allowing me to use their images.

Last October 2010, we started to plan for this trip. We waited for seat sale and blessed enough that we got two! First, from Manila to Hong Kong we booked via Cebu Pacific and paid an airfare for only 1,100php. And the 2^nd seat sale was from Macau to Manila for only 2,400php.

We arrived at Hong Kong International Airport at 12 midnight. We don’t have a choice but to take a cab from the airport from the hostel at Tsim-Sha-Tsui. Most of the taxi drivers in Hong Kong don’t know how to speak in English so my friend bought a map and just showed the location of the hotel to the taxi driver, and we paid around 300HKD for the taxi fare.

The best place to stay in Hong Kong is at Tsim-Sha-Tsui because it’s near to MTR station, food chains and souvenir shops.

We stayed at Cosmic Guesthouse, the room was small, not super clean compared to 3 star hotels but our things are safe. We stayed at Cosmic Guesthouse for 2 nights. The receptionist knows how to speak in English, very accommodating. We got a promo for our room inclusive of Ocean Park and Disneyland tickets.

Here’s the package that Cosmic Guesthouse offered to us:

3 adult tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland Regular Price $350 per,

3 adult tickets to Ocean Park Regular Price $250 per,

2 nights stay in a 3 Guests Ensuite (1 Double + 1 Single Bed) Regular Price $280/night/room,

The regular price for the above package is Total HK$2360. We can offer you HK$2120

Day 1: Hong Kong Disneyland, Peak Tram and Avenue of Stars

Our 1^st destination is Disneyland. We just took the MTR going to Disneyland, quite fast compared to the MRT here in the Philippines. Disneyland is really for kids, we watched 3D movie, walk and walk and walk. Rode the space mountain, I felt dizzy after that. The food inside Disneyland was expensive. But the parade was really entertaining. We stayed at Disneyland until 4:30pm.

Hong Kong Disneyland

with Mickey

with Kababayans working at Disneyland

Our 2^nd destination was Peak Tram. The ride going up to the Peak was SCARY!!! It feels like the tram will stumble down anytime. But the view, up there was so nice. You can see the buildings and beautiful lights around Hong Kong. We had our dinner at the top, they have fast food chains and souvenir shops at Peak Tram.

Going up!

Vegetable in a Hot Pot

Fish Fillet

View from The Peak

And our 3^rd destination is the Avenue of Stars; it was freezing cold that night. But it was all worth it. I admit that I am thankful that I am wearing leather boots that night because of the cold breeze and the never ending walking session as we explore the city of Hong Kong. And the highlight for that night, I was able to meet my friend Dianne who works in Hong Kong and I haven’t seen her for years! That was amazing!

With Dianne

Lights, Camera, Action!

Avenue of Stars

Day 2: Canton Road and Ocean Park

On our 2^nd day, we went to Canton Road to take pictures of the Signature Brand stores. And that was really nice, because they have big signs of the brands but it looks like Tiangge here in Manila. They don’t have shopping malls like here in the Philippines but the brands that they sell in Hong Kong was so expensive.

Canton Road

Going to ocean Park we rode MTR then a bus. What I love about Ocean Park is their breath taking rides! I love Abyss! It’s like I left my heart in the air. And the roller coaster ride was really great! If you’re looking for thrill then Ocean Park is what I recommend for you. 

Ocean Park

Cable Car Ride

Abyss! You take my heart away!

The Panda Bear was so cute! I want to take him home, haha! He’s so neat while eating, and he’s so cute. Too bad I can’t touch him.

Hello Panda!

We spend our whole second day at Ocean Park. You need to have tons of energy for you to enjoy Ocean Park. And after that we picked our baggage at Cosmic Guesthouse and went straight to Macau via Jetfoil Ferry. The travel time from Hong Kong to Macau is only one hour. As we reached Macau we head straight to Venetian Hotel to check in and we ate at Dragao, its authentic Chinese cuisine, very delicious and affordable. We ordered siomai, yang chow fried rice, chicken feet, spicy squid, siopao. It was all good! And ordered 2-3 servings and we paid only 380 MOP (Pataca).

While waiting for our food at Dragao

We always eat at Café de Coral in Hong Kong. For only 25 HKD you can have meal with drinks. The Nai Cha is the only thing that I really appreciate and love in Hong Kong. The tea was a real tea and not a Lipton Tea bag. 

Breakfast at Cafe de Coral

Brunch at Cafe de Coral

Day 3: Talay Thai, Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, Saint Paul Ruins, Macau Square, Venetian Hotel

On our 3^rd day we had our lunch at Talay Thai; it’s located at Fisherman’s Wharf. The food was so delicious and I love it! I was on a diet when I was in Hong Kong I really can’t appreciate their food. But in Macau the food was really delicious plus you have other options and it’s not a fast food chain. I eat like a horse when I was in Macau.

Talay Thai - RECOMMENDED!

Chow Time!

Pineapple Fried Rice

Macau Fisherman's Wharf

Inside Fisherman's Wharf

Macau Version

We spend our whole day taking pictures at Saint Paul Ruins and then we went to Macau Square, shop ‘til you drop! The perfumes were on sale. And I recommend the Portuguese Egg Tart that we bought at Macau Square. Yummmy! The Migoreng (instant pancit canton) that we bought in the grocery was one of the best foods that we bought in Macau.

Macau Square - shopping!

Store of Portuguese Egg Tart (seen at Boys over Flower) - can last for 3 days

Saint Paul Ruins

After that we went back to Venetian Hotel for our Gondola Experience. I forgot the name of the personnel, he’s a Romanian and he knows how to speak in Tagalog. That was nice! They have a very beautiful voice that serenades the guests. The Gondola costs 108MOP per head.

Gondola Experience One

Gondola Experience Two

Venetian Hotel

In Front of Venetian Hotel

We HEART Venetian Hotel

Day 4: Half day at Zhuhai

Zhuhai is the border of China from Macau. The people there are like “Probinsyano” but they are worst! They spit anywhere; don’t know how to fall in line. And I hate it! When I was in line at the immigration, someone just spit on the floor. Ewwww! The native Chinese people don’t have manners. BUT as much as I hate their manners, I LOVE to shop in Zhuhai! It’s like Divisoria here in the Philippines. The items are very cheap. When they give you a price, you can haggle even 60% off the price. The bags, clothes, accessories that I saw in Greenhills, Tutuban mall is the same items that I saw when I was in Zhuhai.

We left Zhuhai at 6:00pm, after that we went straight to Les and Mikii’s condo to pack our pasalubong and went straight ahead to the airport. We’re in a hurry because we need to be there at 8pm. We grabbed sandwich and water for our dinner. And the sad thing about our flight is it was delayed for 5 hours! And none of the Cebu Pacific personnel updated us if how long do we have to wait for the airplane. No meals or anything from the Cebu Pacific. I’m so tired and wasted when we arrived here in Manila at 7:00am.

Over all the trip was very good and the air fare was very affordable!

I want to thank my friends Mikii and Les for accommodating us, and for giving time and effort to tour us in Hong Kong and Macau. You guys are the BEST! I will definitely go back to Macau. Love you both! And I am excited to see your little angel too, soon!  

Mikii and Les, thanks a lot! This trip will not be possible with you guys, see you soon!

Year 2010, is an unforgettable year for me. Because I learned a lot, I woke up from the bad things that I’m doing and most of all, I made the most important decision in my life and that is when I decided to turn 180 degrees to my Creator, my Savior Jesus Christ.

Year 2010, on the 1^st and 2^nd quarter of the year my world is turning for the things that I do, to the people that I thought I was important but I learned that I am not important to them in the end. God taught me to be strong, to be dependent on Him and to only Him, to feel secure in Him, and to build my life around Him, to keep on believing and doing things for Him.

God is a jealous God; He wants my attention just on Him. To make everything easier, He removed my love life, because I was so focus on it that I forgot to spend time and even talk to Him. Of course I was hurt, but I learned to be dependent and be secured on Him. His presence is so alive in my life, that even the smallest thing that I want to do I want to let Him know. I learned to find my happiness in Him. While I was doing the “move on” thing, I didn’t know that God is re-arranging my life. He made me see the people who are worth keeping and those who are not. And most of all, my references in a man becomes biblical that I want someone who has a personal relationship with my God.

I want a man who will pray for me, who will care for me, who will love me unconditionally and someone who will claim me from my God because he wants me to be the only woman that he will cherish for the rest of his life. God taught me to choose a man based on what the bible says and not on what other people says.

Obedience is something that I do because I don’t want to hurt Him, and I don’t want the wrath of God to be upon me. And with obedience, comes blessings. Before 2010 ended God showered me with His blessings, something that’s unexpected. So for 2011, I will start to count my blessings first from 2010:

Blessings from 2010:

• God provided for:

ü  Cebu Marathon

ü  TNF Baguio

ü  Calaguas Trip with college friends

ü  Cebu – Bohol Trip with my family

ü  Camsur Marathon – Naga/Legaspi Trip

ü  Sagada Trip with college friends

ü  New Job (without my own effort)

ü  Iphone 3g – from my mom

And when I’ve decided to prioritize my Victory Weekend last November 21, 2010, God gave me a new job. I didn’t apply for the position but the HR told me that she just saw my resume at best jobs. So I just went to attend the interviews but after my Victory Weekend, I got the job offer! God is so good, that the blessings just kept on pouring in that I don’t have to really work hard for it.

As what He promised on His word:

But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. – Matthew 6:33

As 2011 begins, I will start my year right. I will align my path with God. I will be expectant for more blessings, more wisdom and knowledge from Him. And I know that His grace is always sufficient, more of blessings too at the ministry. Because I know that this is just the beginning of my journey with Him.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. – Jeremiah 29:11

Last November 2010, we went to Sagada and we joined Travel Factor. It costs 4,800php per head inclusive of:

• Roundtrip Bus Transfers via Florida bus: Manila-Banaue-Manila
• Roundtrip Chartered Jeep: Banaue-Sagada-Banaue
• 3D/2N Accommodation in Alibama Inn / George Inn
• Day 1 – Lunch
• Day 2 – Breakfast, Lunch
• Day 3 – Breakfast
• Private Jeepney during tours around Sagada (see itinerary)
• Cave Connection Adventure (Enter Lumiang, Exit Sumaguing)
• Service of the Local Guides & Cave Guides with lamps
• Service of the tour director
• Travel Insurance
• Travel Factor ID, lanyard and CONQUER Sagada T-Shirt

Here’s our itinerary for the trip:

Day 0, Fri, Nov 26

10:00 PM Meeting Time at the Bus Terminal

(Florida, SH Loyola corner AH Lacson, Sampaloc, Manila)

10:45 PM Exact Bus Departure Manila to Banaue

 

Day 1, Sat, Nov 27

08:00 AM ETA Banaue

Breakfast at Banaue (at own expense)

08:30 AM ETD Banaue

11:30 AM ETA Sagada

Check-in at Alibama Inn

12:00 NN Lunch at Alibama Inn (included in package)

01:00 PM Banga-an Rice Terraces, Trekking and Swimming Bomod-ok Big Falls

05:00 PM Sunset at Lake Danum

07:00 PM Dinner (at own expense)

Overnight at Alibama Inn

 

Day 2, Sun, Nov 28

04:00 AM Wake Up! 🙂

05:30 AM Sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint

08:00 AM Breakfast at Alibama Inn (included in package)

09:00 AM Cave Connection Adventure

01:00 PM Late Lunch at Alibama Inn (included in package)

*could be later, depending on the speed of the spelunking group

Dinner (at own expense)

Overnight at Alibama Inn

 

Day 3, Mon, Nov 29

07:00 AM Breakfast at Alibama Inn (included in package)

08:00 AM Walking Tour: St. Mary’s Episcopal church, Calvary Hills, Echo Valley,

Hanging Coffins, Sagada Weaving, Pasalubong shopping

12:00 NN Lunch (at own expense)

01:00 PM ETD Sagada

04:00 PM ETA Banaue

Early Dinner at Banaue (at own expense)

06:30 PM ETD Banaue

 

Day 4, Tue, Nov 3

03:30 AM ETA Manila

 

Instead of trekking on Day 1, we had our Cave Connection Adventure. We’re inside the cave for 6 hours because we’re a big group (30pax), we have to wait for each other. The cave was beautiful but the water was freezing cold! And it’s not a cave that you just have to walk and see the view inside. You have to climb, do rappelling, sit and slide whenever it’s slippery. If you’re really looking for an adventure you should never miss the cave connection. It will test your patience, endurance on climbing, rappelling and sliding. The rock formation at Sumaging cave was very beautiful; I never thought that there is such thing in Sagada.

Cave Connection - Lumiang Cave

Super Lamig!

Cave Connection - Sumaguing Cave

Sumaguing Cave

But there’s one incident that happened to me during the cave connection adventure. There’s a part in the cave where in you need to go thru the cold water just to pass that stage and climb after. My shirt was so wet and it was so cold. My nails are turning violet, and I can feel my heart palpitating when I was inside the cave. I didn’t went down at the last part of Sumaging Cave, instead I just stayed near the petromax (light) of the tour guide to be able to get warm. And when it’s time to go out, I was chilling and I have to climb like 50+ steps to be able to get out of the cave. So I was thinking that it will be more critical if I fade out at the stairs so I rush in to climb to be able to get out as fast as I can. So when I reached the top I lacked out of oxygen, and suddenly my surroundings turned out black. Luckily, the tour guide of Sagada which is Kuya Erwin really knows how to do a 1^st aide. So he removed my socks, and let me eat chocolates and drink water, and he wrap me with blanket. And he put all the lamps around me to be able to keep me warm. I really thanked Kuya Erwin Quiore for his help, and he really took good care of me.

Bomod-ok Falls

Bomod-ok Falls

Known for their Big Pasta and salad serving, delisyoso!

Bonfire on our last night

So I learned my lesson, and I promised myself that I will go back to Sagada during summer.

The trekking going to Bomod-ok big falls, easy when going down and super tiring when going up. The water was super cold, of course! The falls is very beautiful, even though I didn’t have the courage to swim but I can feel the water sprinkling all over my face because of the strong wind.

I recommend the Yoghurt House, it is famous for their big pasta serving, sandwiches and salad. Don’t forget to try their tea, where in the leaves are picked and dried up naturally to keep its natural flavor.

Our trip in Sagada is two thumbs up for me, even though I had a bad experience because of the coldness in Sagada. I will definitely go back to this place.

For more info you can check out: http://sagadagenuineguides.blogspot.com

 

November 19-20, 2010

Victory Weekend what’s in it? It is a life changing experience, it’s the best decision that I’ve ever made. Now I understand the excitement, fulfillment, importance of having a personal relationship with my God.

The Process:

Victory Weekend is the most unique “retreat” that I’ve ever attended. It struck me straight to my heart, and God made me see how sinful and selfish I am. To be able to participate, you must be:

1.       A member of “Victory Group”.

2.       You must finish the “One to One” booklet with your Victory Group Leader.

3.       Register to be able to participate.

4.       Do “3 days fasting” before Victory Weekend.

5.       Answer the “Preparing for Victory” manual one week before Victory Weekend.

6.       Buy the “Experiencing Victory” manual to be able to understand the topics on Victory Weekend.

7. The Water Baptismal.

 

A week before Victory Weekend, the attacks of the enemy was stronger that I’ve ever thought. That was the 1^st time that I really experienced it that the enemy disturbed me through my family and work. At first I used to think that it was normal. Then, I remembered, “oo nga pala Victory Weekend na sa Friday.” Then I prayed to God and He told me that I have to be strong and never lose my focus this time. The enemy keeps on putting lies on my head and hatred in my heart to be able to lose focus on God. And then I told myself, “This is it! There’s no turning back!” So I hold on to God, and prayed to give me strength, keep me on track, to be sensitive and hear Him during my quiet time. And by God’s grace I survived all the trials a week before the event.

 

The Event:

The “Experiencing Victory” Manual showed me the most painful event in my life. In Section One, there’s a topic: “The Cross: What God did for me”, I realized how selfish I am. That God loves me so much, and God sent His only son to give me LIFE. Jesus is perfect and holy but He was crucified on the cross because of my sins. Now I fully understand the meaning of the Cross in my life. It’s not just a Cross, BUT because of the cross I have my life to live with God. He’s so amazing because He never grew tired of reaching out to sinners like me. When I saw the materials that the Romans used to crucify my Savior I was humiliated in front of Him. Because I know if not for Jesus, I am the one who needs to be crucified to pay for my sins. And I must say that I would be dead by now. I can’t even ask God for anything at that time. I was crying, and all I can say is “God please forgive me for all of my sins”. That was the first time in my life that I cried out to God and humbled myself in front of Him. Because I know, I am not worth of anything if His Son was not crucified on the Cross. I am blessed and thankful for the gift of salvation. And I will never forget what Pastor John said, “Never underestimate your value as a Christian, because you were bought at a HIGH PRICE”.

The Experience:

I know my value now, because with God I am precious. I am His Princess. I am His loving daughter. I am worth of everything. With God I know that I can never go wrong. He’s someone that will never go back on my past, because with Him I am a new creation. Being a Christian is not easy. Because being a human we are born with the sins of our ancestors (sin that started from Adam and Eve). And the curse of sin will run down from generation to generation, and only Jesus can stop and cut the curse from my family. My heart is full of joy that I can relax and believe in faith that God cut the curse of sin in my life. Only God’s grace can sustain me, and can give strength in my walk with Him. Yes, there are still temptations BUT if I hold on to God his grace is always sufficient. Everyday, He has revelations. His words are more meaningful in my life.

 

The BIBLE is the best book that we can ever have. Before, this book is just an ordinary book for me, a book that will tell me the miracles, good things that God has done. But now, I realized that God’s commandments and His principles never changed. It started from Adam and Eve and until now all of His commandments, His character never changed. God is consistent. He is 100% percent sure of everything that was written in the Bible. Wonder what the BIBLE means? It’s “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth”.

The Realizations:

Now, I know I am on the right path. Yes, I still make mistakes but the fact that I am willing to exert an effort to live for my God is the best thing in my life. I couldn’t ask for more, because the wall of sins in my life was torn. Now I can come to God without hesitations, and I know that He loves me so much! I realized, that He never changed even though we are fickle minded. His love is consistent, it never fades. He is 100% faithful in my life, because if he’s not I will not be saved. And right now, I am not afraid to say that death is just a part of my life that will come anytime soon and it is the only way to be with my God. Death will kill my body but not my soul and spirit that belong to my Creator.

 

I would like to thank Thine Mojica, Yko Olandez, Kim Mijares, Joyce Habitan, Kath Azarias and Abhie Timajo for standing by my side, for all the prayers and support, for your overflowing passion and love.

And also to KG Sanchez, Elaine Buhain and Diana for being my classmates.

To all the pastors, facilitators and participants of Victory Weekend Alabang,

We are all VICTORIOUS in CHRIST!

The Water Baptismal

Kim, Elaine, KG, Me, Yko and Diana

Pastors, Participants and Facilitators of Victory Weekend

Lunch Time after Water Baptismal

Special Thanks to Kim Mijares for the photos 🙂

Last September 2010 I went to Naga City because of two reasons: one is for Camsur Marathon 2010 and second is for “GALA” mode.

It was April 2010 when I’ve decided to join Camsur Marathon.  Since then, I’ve always check on seat sales of Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines because I don’t want to take the bus going to Naga City because of long hours of trip. I want to enjoy my stay at Naga City and make gala with the best that I can.

And it was May 2010 when I bought my plane ticket at Cebu Pacific for 1,300php (back and forth) together with my friend Ross of Takbo.ph. Since she’s a free lancer and I really want to avail a cheap fare, we both decided to stay in Naga from September 23-28, 2010 (super gala talaga). And to add on my College friend Mau joined us too.

September 23 at 11 in the morning is our flight to Naga City. We arrived to Naga at 12 noon and we took a tricycle from Naga Airport to the main road and the fee must be only 7-8php per head. But the first time we asked a tricycle driver regarding the fare from the airport to the main road, he said 200php (grabe manong, sobra sa tubo). From the main road to Naga City we took a jeepney ride for 13php/head. We booked at the Old Sampaguita Inn for 500php/night; our room was air-conditioned, with television and hot and cold shower.  We booked at the right hotel because it is walking distance to SM Naga, and also to different fast food chains.

With Ross at NAIA Airport

Arrival at Naga City Airport (Mau. Mark and Clarence)

On our 1^st day at Naga, after we checked in at the hotel we had our lunch at Jollibee since we’re so hungry. After that we went back at the hotel to take a nap and rest to be able to go out late in the afternoon and explore the place. We went out at 6pm in the evening and had our dinner at the back of the Cathedral near Sampaguita Inn, we ate at “Jing Jing’s Eatery”, the food was delicious and it’s super cheap. I ordered half laing, beef steak and 1 cup of rice for only 29php (naisip ko nalang, ang sarap tumira ditto ang mura ng pagkain). After our dinner we had coffee at Beanbag Coffee (Starbucks Version of Naga City), the price of their coffee and pastries are way cheaper (and may Wi-Fi pa). I ordered White Mocha Ice Blended for only 75php (tall size of Starbucks). After our coffee session, its bedtime na.

Laing and Beef Steak

 

Starbucks Version at Naga City

with Mau and Ross at Beanbag Coffee

And for our 2^nd day we had our breakfast at Biggs Diner, one of the famous places to eat at Naga City. I had Spaghetti for my meal and Molten Lava for my dessert. After our breakfast we’ve decided to go to Cagsawa Ruins to see Mount Mayon. From the Van Terminal we rode a van going to Sabang for 1 and ½ hour and just asked Manong Driver to drop us at Cagsawa Ruins and the fare is 60php per head. From the main road we rode a tricycle going to Cagsawa Ruins for 7php per head. As we reached Cagsawa Ruins, the weather was cloudy (oh no! NO perfect cone for us?!). We met one of the tour guides at Cagsawa, his name is Enrique Ocleana but we call him “King” for short. He’s a very nice, approachable and hospitable tour guide and very gentleman also. He toured us to Cagsawa Ruins and told us the history of it and we’re currently standing at the 2^nd floor of the church that sunk in because of Mount Mayon lava. He told us that he can take us to Daraga Church and Ligñon Hills thru his Honda Wave Motorcycle. It’s a Habal Habal ride for all of us. Our second stop is Daraga Church; according to King the church was called Daraga church because it was build by all Filipinas who are Dalaga. And Daraga is the Bicolano translation of Dalaga. And our 3^rd stop is Ligñon Hills; it was an uphill road going there. And at the top you can have a Zip Line activity; I just didn’t asked how much it is. We just waited for the rain to stop and still No perfect cone of Mayon for us. After that, we just decided to eat at Camalig and we ate their famous viand which is Inolukan and Pinangat. Bicol is one of the best places to eat. It was all worth it, because they have good food and the price is way cheaper compared to other places that I’ve been. We asked King to join us at our early dinner because it’s his birthday. He did not ask for any fix amount when we asked him how much we need to pay him. He told us, “mam kayo na po ang bahala”. So we gave him 400php as our payment and birthday gift for him. You can contact Enrique “King” Ocleana thru his mobile number +639995574164.

Biggs Diner

Molten Lava for 55php

Cagsawa Ruins

Daraga Church

Lignon Hills

Habal Habal with King

Famous for Inolukan and Pinangat at Camalig

On our 3^rd day Mau and I decided to go to Atulayan Island, we have no idea where it is and how long the travel time is. We researched at the internet to take a Van going to Tigaon (for 60php/head), we just asked Manong Driver again to drop us at Sangay. From Sangay, we rode a tricycle (for 25php) going to Nato Beach and from Nato Beach we rode a boat going to Atulayan Island (for 200php/head). Atulayan Island is a 30 to 45 minutes ride from Nato beach. A very serene place, clear water and fine sand. We went to the island with just bread at water on our bags. No plans of getting a cottage. We just had our malong, placed it under the tree and left our things. God blessed us as we bump into a big group with approximately 15-25 people and just invited us to join the in their lunch. We had squid, tuna and rice sa dahon ng saging. The group traveled from Manila to Bicol via road. And they’re also joining the Camsur Marathon. You can contact “Mang Koding” thru his mobile number +639094072846 for the boat ride. He’s very approachable and pwede ka tumawad sa fare lalo na when you’re a big group. And the care taker of the island is “Ate Lanie” +639074527566 you can ask her to cook for your food and their very hospitable and kind to their visitors. Mang Koding and Ate Lanie know each other, and have a contact regarding the visitors who are coming in to the island.

Atulayan Island

Atulayan Island

The people who feed us and our new friends

On our 4^th day, it’s Camsur Marathon. I am one of the participants at the 21km distance race. I was so tired and lazy to run because of my activity at Atulayan Island. I woke up at two in the morning to prepare for the race, and we also need to catch the bus schedule going inside CWC. Every distance has different starting points and one finish line. Running at Camsur was one of the greatest experiences that I had. The people are very supportive, as I ran the 21km distance minsan gusto ko ng maglakad. But the route is bayan-bayan, so all f the residents are outside of their houses waiting and cheering for the participants. So minsan I just thought nakakahiya maglakad. The weather at Naga City was next to Cebu City. It was very humid at that time, buti nalang di nauubusan ng sponge and water sa mga stations. And the residents are very helpful sila mismo ang nagbibigay din ng sponge sa runners. I had cramps for the last 5kms of the race, but I had no choice. I have to finish the race even if I have to walk. NO DNF’s for me. When I reached km 19, I said, “This is it! Malapit na!” but it was the longest to kilometers that I ever had! It was so hot and I am exhausted and still I pushed myself to finish my 21km run. As I approached the finish line, I saw my takbo.ph friends and they cheered for me and it was so good na there are times that you want to give up BUT you have friends to encourage you to finish it. For takbo.ph peeps, love you and for the residents of Naga saludo ako sa suporta nyo.  I am very happy too that Ross did finish her first full marathon, after all the sentiments na kinakabahan sya. Sabi ko nga it was normal, and besides she has training, e ako walang training when I had my first full marathon. Cheers to us sister! We’re a marathoner!

Approaching the finish line

With My Precious Medal at Camsur Marathon 2010

And on our 5^th day, after Ross had her first full marathon and I had my half marathon, we both decided to try wake boarding. We just both said, “bahala na sis, andito na tayo. We need to try it!” so we went to CWC, and had our wake boarding experience even though we’re having a difficulty sa paglalakad. Still we managed to stand sa board. It was all worth it! And ang sarap mag swim the day after ng run, magandang recovery run. Later that night, we prepared our stuff because our flight to Manila is nine in the morning. We’re both wasak sa pagod and haggard but the experience was so sulit. We’re both tight sa budget but still God stretched our budget from the hotel, food and to the places that we’ve been thru. Ang galing ni God, because He gave us finances for this run and pasyal and nakabili pa kame ng pasalubong. I can’t imagine that we only have 4,500php for 6 days for all of these. One of the best souvenirs that I had is the ref magnet that was made out of Mount Mayon Lava.

Special thanks to Suzi Bermudez and Brando Losaria for my race pics.

Last August 2010, we visited Bohol with my Mom and Jerry. It was their first time to go on a tour outside Luzon. I am really happy they had a lot of fun, because I want to make them see how beautiful our country is. Because my mom always tell me, “Anak, bakit naman gala ka ng gala?” and my answer is, “Ma, maganda dito sa Pinas. Ang pinapakita lang kasi sa US e puro bad news.” So my purpose is to prove it to my mom na maganda dito sa Pinas.

I bought a ticket to PAL before they come home at 1,700php back and forth from Manila – Cebu – Manila. Then from Cebu we just rode a ferry going to Tubigon (400php per head). Then we stayed into one of the cheapest place TRM Pension House for 750php/night – the room is air-conditioned, has its own bathroom, cable TV and it’s good for 3 persons (for additional person 100php per night and 100php for extra bed per night).

On our first day, since we have to wait for my friend who just followed us at Tubigon. We just had a tour at Danao Adventure Park. My Kuya, Ate Dona, Mom and Jahleel had a ride at “The Sky Ride” it’s a cable-car, while Jerry, Mau and Me had our “The Plunge” experience. It’s similar to bungee jumping but the difference is there is a machine that will drop you from the top. For more details for the rates and other activities, check their website: http://www.eatdanao.com. If you’re looking for adventure, you better check out this adventure park. We just rented a multi-cab jeep for 1,500php. Danao is a 2-3 hours ride from Tubigon. And our only option to reach Danao is to rent a van or a multi-cab jeep, so we just took a cheaper option which is the multi-cab jeep.

And on our second day, we woke up early and we rented a van for a whole day tour for 3,400php. The owner of the van is located at Tubigon Bohol, his name is Jayson, and his contact number is +639069345835. They are very kind, on time, very shy and polite.

Our tour includes the following:

1. Sagbayan Peak – entrance fee is 10php

2. Chocolate Hills

3. Stop over at the Road to Bilar – man made forest

4. Hanging Bridge at Sebilya – entrance fee 10php; you can also see “Buko King” at the other side of the bridge, if you want to see him perform you have to pay him 100php

5. Tarsier at Loboc – donation for shot with the tarsier

6. Prony – largest Python snake in captivity

7. Hinagdanan Cave – entrance fee 10php

8. Dumaluan Beach at Panglao – Personnel’s are very courteous, rooms are affordable. For more info check their website http://dumaluanbeach.com

To sum it all up, I am glad that my Mom and Jerry enjoyed our family vacation. Now they know and see the reason why I love to travel and explore different places here in our country. I am proud that I live here in the Philippines, there is so much more in our country that we never thought we had. I am thankful to God for giving us the resources to experience His wonderful nature blessings, and for the time that we spent together.

Every Nation 2010 was an awesome experience for me. It was my first time to attend a conference with 20, 000 attendees. At first I wonder how we’ll fit at the SMX Convention Center. But God made it all possible! According to His word “All things are possible! –Luke 18:27”

It was three great days of praise and worship, sharing how God works in our lives and praying for each other. There are different speakers from Africa, China, Iraq, Philippines, Laos, etc. as they share their experiences and speak about God; you can see how God transformed their lives.

One speaker from Iran was a communist and now he’s a believer. He used to kill people without pity. But as God revealed Himself to Him, he can’t do anything but to hunger for more for God’s presence. He was caught in Iran for sharing the gospel, and was prisoner for 135 days and he fasted for 132 days. Even in trials and tribulations he praised God. Because he’s in good faith that God is at work and in control of everything. And if ever he’ll die, he’ll die for his “Jesus”. He’s a brave man, with an incredible faith!

Then, I realized how lucky I am because I can serve and praise God anytime. I should be thankful enough that I don’t have to experience that kind of persecution in praising God. As we sing worship songs for Him, I can’t help myself but cry because I am forever grateful how God take good care of me and won’t allow me to experience that. He loves me and I am so lucky to have the freedom to express my faith.

I believe that God revealed Himself to me and to other people in different ways. God knows the best way to reveal Himself for us to see how powerful, grateful and faithful He is in our lives. I believe that God is very unique in making ways for us to experience His love and understanding. No words can define how matchless He is. My heart is filled with overflowing joy because I am a part of a congregation that “Honors God and make disciples”. He called us for us to make fishers of man. He called us for a purpose and to be a part of His kingdom. I know that time will come that I’ll be walking with my God in heaven. I am so excited for His plans for me, and how I experience Him in my life right now.

My favorite words from a few speakers at EN2010:

“I don’t endorse a politician, I only endorse JESUS” – Efren Penaflorida

“God made a way to me through McDonald hamburgers” – Jackie from China

“We’re not here to receive glory but to give glory” – Darlene Zschech

To Honor GOD . . . and make Disciples

Countdown

Darlene Zschech

Victory Group One

Victory Group Two