Category Archives: Cagayan de Oro City

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Hanjin Shipyard in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental Stopped!

Before I left the Philippines, there was this big buzz regarding a $2-billion Korean shipyard investment in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. A lot of people were happy, I for one. It would mean more employment for the local people. By local – I do not only mean Villanueva or Tagoloan. It means the whole Northern Mindanao populace. This project would surely boost the economy of the region as well as the whole nation.

It is a shame though that this multi-billion dollar project was discontinued because of political issues (what else). Mayor Paulino Emano of Tagoloan and Mayor Juliet Uy of Villanueva are in the hot spot. These two political figures are being investigated concerning an alleged extortion situation. Honestly, I do not believe anymore in the sincerity of our government officials. I am not stereo-typing but I hope that the truth will prevail.

You maybe wondering why I feel so strongly about this issue. Well, the shipyard project was supposed to be built beside the power plant I worked for. I know how important these foreign investment to locals. For me, it changed my life. It got better. I just got lucky though because when I was employed, the “local employment” bullshit was no big deal that time. I was hired because my superior believed in my capabilities and skills, and NOT because the mayor recommended me. I was just a plain lass in a far flung place.

One thing that I strongly disagree is – the hiring of incompetent workers. I know that they have this MOA somewhere stating that workers must be locals. BUT come on, it is an investment, NOT a charity. Are the tax monies collected from these foreign investments not enough? If you are the owner of a company, would you hire a farmer for the position of a welder? They are building ships for goodness sake! Also, why limit employment only to municipalities geographically involved, when you could find qualified workers in the nearby towns?

Anyway, just my two cents.

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Our CHErie Amor

Behind that cute and innocent-looking face is a very strong-willed and achievement-driven Atenista. She is a jolly friend, a great confidante and the “baby” of the group, simply because she is the youngest and the most “manang” (read: conservative)…. a late bloomer. But now, she surprises me along with our univ friends with the unstoppable success of her career…and she is no longer the barriotic lass I know (she gonna kill me for this). She exudes the aura of a modern Filipina. Carefree, witty, sweet and loving.

I know you are reading this, Che. I tell you now, you do not deserve to be hurt. You better decide now, before it is too late. Yes, follow your heart and where it leads you to, but be smart enough to lead a life free from unfaithfulness and deceit. I know, you know what I mean. Cheer up, my friend!

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Celebrating April Fool’s Day-slash-Palm Sunday at the CDO White Water Rafting

 

It is my second time around, enjoying the rapids of Cagayan de Oro River.My first time was on Rizal’s Day (December 30) of year 2005. Yes, I am paddler. Not yet a certified one, but a struggling neophyte. I have to applause at myself though, for bravely making the “graduation rite”. Jumping off from a big rock (as high as a roof-top of a bungalow)! Such an adventurous day today. I love everything about it, the scorching heat of the sun, the ever-so-green trees, the water striders, the chirping birds, the cool waters, just everything.

There are six adventure companies operating in the same area. Each has its own promo. Anyway, I just want to spread the news that CDO White Water Rafting (the pioneer) is having a promo for the whole summer. From Php.1, 200/person, they have it at a discounted rate of Php.500.00/person for the beginner’s ride (of about 3 hours) with fourteen (14) rapids to enjoy. Enjoy the summer!!!

Oh by the way, don’t forget your sunblock or else, you will be like me. I am red as a lechon (roasted pig) now. Suffering from second degree burn is not good.

 

On the other side of the fence….

Seeing parishioners parading to the church, I felt a guilt feeling. How could I forget about going to church? I know, I know. It’s awful. I am simply awful. Yes, I am a non-practicing catholic. It’s very unbelievable for a choir member (during my younger years). During my pious days , I went to church almost whenever there was a mass or a religious celebration..or even a “pahina”. Now, I am nowhere to be seen. But I do not forget to silently pray, in which case, more than always…when I am happy, sad or worried.

 

 

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“We Serve and Protect”

This mission will just remain meaningless texts for most Filipino. No substance at all.

I abhor the Philippine National Police for having such a crooked system in dealing with “small-time” cases (like snatching and hold-ups) in the country. Such is treated with minor attention and response. With this, I do not entrust my safety and security to them. Some (or should I say, most) of them are part of these petty crimes (not to discredit the good ones).

Why am I saying this? I am talking based on experience. I was a victim of a (bag) snatching incident just early this week. If I haven’t called my uncle (a local politician), my case will surely be unheeded. After two days, the renowned snatcher (he’s been going in and out from the rehab; he is a minor) was arrested and my belongings was recovered. The snatcher pleaded guilty and informed us that he already returned two mobile phones and one digital camera to the police station (a different precinct from where I filed my complaint) where he was detained. The policemen on-duty denied it and said that they only receive one cellphone (an old model) and a digital camera. That night, I received an inside information from a neighbor (who is also a policeman of the same area) that the other cellphone (a new model) was already sold to a certain Muslim buyer by (guess who?) a certain policeman. Really disgusting!

I do not know whom to blame. Is it the national government for giving them very low salary; hence, resorting to other income-generating activities? Is it the superior-in-uniform who protect criminals; thus giving an undesired example to their subordinates? Take your pick.

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It’s weekend..

and I am still working.

In preparation for the upcoming inauguration of the plant on Monday, everybody is busy doing their assigments. Well, not really all. The company hired event organizers in Makati and in CDO for the whole job. I am just so excited of this historical event in the island, being the first-ever coal-fired power plant in Mindanao.
Congrats to the Communication Team, with the help of their German counterparts in Essen, the new company’s website , which looks like our mother company’s site, is now ready for viewing.

Kudos to everyone!

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My Year Ender

My heartfelt gratitude to my ever-loving husband, who is never tired of understanding his fickle-minded wife. You can be assured of my undying commitment. Sorry for the time, when I erred and hurt you so bad. It will never happen again. The day we took our vow is the most wonderful and fulfilling day of my life. Thank you for loving me and Amber unconditionally.

My heartfelt gratitude to my family, who never left me hanging in the air. I may sometimes act like a bad daughter or a sister, you still accept me for who I am.

My heartfelt gratitude to my previous Boss, who will soon leave the country for good to start a new (and stress-free) life in Siam. Thank you for being a dear friend to me and the rest of your people. You never cease to support us in times of mistakes and misfortune. You will always remain the strong-willed and smart (not to mention, extravagant) Boss that I know. Take care and enjoy your life in Siam. I hope that you will find your love soon.

My heartfelt gratitude to my current Boss, who is ever-softspoken and kind to his people. We may have been working for just a few months, but I have learned to accept your ways and find them very good. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you.

and lastly,

My heartfelt gratitude to a prominent yet humble lady, who I met only once (during my first and last interview before I was hired) and whom I never thought had helped me took my first step in this long and winding path that I am struggling to finish. You may not know this, but my previous Boss told me so. The simple information you shared to him turned out to be the final decision. Thank you, thank you. I pray that all is well with you and blessings will continue to shower your home.

I hope that next year, I will have more people to thank to.

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Mapawa Nature Park

In the northern side of Cagayan de Oro City lays a haven away from the chaotic traffic and the murky air looming the city skyline. It is said to be a habitat for different tropical breeds of flora and fauna. Tranquility besets its atmosphere, hereby giving any soul a relaxation that is far beyond compare. To keep sanity, one needs the intervention of the greatness of nature and just enjoys the simple blessing that God has given us. Truly, serenity does not have to come with a high prize.

Let us appreciate the wonders of nature. Come and visit Mapawa Nature Park.

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BIR Sex Scandal

Just this evening, I received a forwarded email, entitled “BIR CDO”, from my sister. At first, I thought that it was just another “sweet and thoughtful” forwarded message. When I clicked it open, I saw a familiar face. Her face radiated an aura of youthful beauty. Serenity and calmness was seen in her almond-shape eyes. I envied her. Such a pretty face.

As I scanned my screen, lower and lower, I was tongue-tied in disbelief! Right before my very eyes, I saw a kitten unfolding into a tigress. Such a disgrace! The pretty face was unmasked. Her true color showed. She is a star, a star in a sex scandal.

You may be asking why such a reaction to a common (popularized by Paris Hilton) scandal. Well, I know the girl. She was a high school schoolmate and a neighbor. She was popular and cool. She was a beauty queen. She is a mother and a wife (but the man in the video is not her husband *sad*). But all went to the dump, because of a moment of stupidity and a lapse of judgment.

*Sigh* Life is such hard to fathom.