Friday, December 14, 2007

Imogen Heap: Warp your way to electric dreams


Then I was 3 years too late…

I was never into ambient and electronica that much, until a friend of mine- Isabelle, whose very much into this contraption, introduced to me a couple of Imogen and Frou frou’s treat for the hearing. I on the other hand, got a bit reluctant at first to hear but eventually got the guts and curiosity to try out a few songs off from her 2004-05 Speak for yourself album and boom! The headphones never wore off since then- to the point that even at home I’ve gotten the habit of putting myself to bed with a cue of her songs playing.

With power tracks like: “Headlock”, “Goodnight and go”, “Have you got it in you”, “Hide and seek”- a strange concoction of musicality, “Clear the area” – my personal favorite along with “The walk”

I eventually entered her powerhouse and asked for more of her hits from everyone who has a collection of her songs, some of which led me to her now- defunct band Frou frou hits (My favorites include: “Maddening shroud”, “Must be dreaming”, “Psychobabble”, and “Shh” and an array of her other offerings.

Perhaps, in this day and age this artist from the UK and her music rocks! Imogen is a must tripper as it gives the ears something new and nostalgic, away from the clutches of guitars, heavy theatrics and stuff. I’ve tried her stuff and I’m feeling it way down in my dreams and so should you!

For Imogen fans out there, pay her site a visit for more news and updates of her tours and stuff at: www.imogenheap.com

P.S. Kudos Imogen heap!!!

Source: http://yuwie.com/jovir


Message in a Bottle

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

An Unsung Mother's Tragedy: Sullivan

Here's one more song to ponder that caught my ear in the late 90's, and it still rings a ding. Its all about a mother's grief and tragic loss of all her sons during world war II a.k.a the Sullivan brothers who were enlisted in the navy.

Really cool song from Caroline Spine to give a thought on the message that "War is not always the answer" and maybe to open up the eyes of everyone to the veterans who paid blood, sweat, and tears for their countries during the world wars.

Source: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir


Sullivan
Caroline Spine

It's not hard to reach back to the day
underneath that Iowa sun
running to the tower of waterloo
looking for the Sullivan's train to come
and his five boys would run to the top
and salute him as he went by
first we'd wave hello
then we'd wave goodbye
goodbye...

It's not hard to reach back to the days
after the attack on pearl
overnight my buddies turned into men
running out of time for games and girls
and the Sullivan boys were not overlooked
Uncle Sam'll call them each by name
the very next day they left on a mystery train

Say goodbye, Mrs. Sullivan
and don't you cry
"-We regret to inform you
the Navy has taken your sons away-"
all five... so put your blue stars in the window

It's not hard to reach back to her smile
when she'd receive a letter
and the letters they sounded generally the same
they said if they couldn't be home
but at least they were together
on a mighty fighting battleship
somewhere in the South Pacific
the letters never got much more specific

Say goodbye, Mrs. Sullivan
and don't you cry
"-We regret to inform you
the Navy is keeping your sons away-"
all five... so keep your blue star in the window

It's not hard to reach back to the day
when the war finally came home
Uncle Sam will send you a telegram
so he doesn't have to tell you over the phone
i heard she cracked up
when they found out what the war had cost
when all five of her boys were lost...

Say goodbye, Mrs. Sullivan
go ahead and cry
"-We regret to inform you
that all your sons have passed away-"
all five... so change your blue star to gold

blue star to gold...


View the Photo and click Play for audio.











Wednesday, October 31, 2007

The song for the carefree me: Hand in my pocket

Here's the song for the carefree and sober people out there, a rant to strive by life's atrocities with a smile. From Alanis Morissette- Hand in my pocket. Enjoy!

Source: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

I'm broke but I'm happy
I'm poor but I'm kind
I'm short but I'm healthy, yeah
I'm high but I'm grounded
I'm sane but I'm overwhelmed
I'm lost but I'm hopeful baby

What it all comes down to
Is that everything's gonna be fine fine fine
I've got one hand in my pocket
And the other one is giving a high five

I feel drunk but I'm sober
I'm young and I'm underpaid
I'm tired but I'm working, yeah
I care but I'm restless
I'm here but I'm really gone
I'm wrong and I'm sorry baby

What it all comes down to
Is that everything's gonna be quite alright
I've got one hand in my pocket
And the other one is flicking a cigarette

What it all comes down to
Is that I haven't got it all figured out just yet
I've got one hand in my pocket
And the other one is giving the peace sign

I'm free but I'm focused
I'm green but I'm wise
I'm hard but I'm friendly baby
I'm sad but I'm laughing
I'm brave but I'm chicken shit
I'm sick but I'm pretty baby

And what it all boils down to
Is that no one's really got it figured out just yet
I've got one hand in my pocket
And the other one is playing the piano

What it all comes down to my friends
Is that everything's just fine fine fine
I've got one hand in my pocket
And the other one is hailing a taxicab...


View the video now!

Message in a Bottle

Monday, October 29, 2007

A Rural- Urban Legend: Warlito "Waway" Toledo- Man or Myth?

"Be sure to lock your doors and keep your windows closed at night, be sure to keep the women and children out of sight, for teenagers it is a whole lot forbidden to take strolls and night-outs especially during the wee hours of the night; as he is on the prowl and looking for the next victim to pounce upon; among his favorites are those that are left home-alone..."

These are but some of the words that can be heard circulating in the Northern City of Danao and the towns:Compostela, Liloan, Consolacion that supposedly sheds the light on the man or myth "Waway", the former victim of foul deed-gone berserk, and is looking for justice on what has happened to his wife; one fateful night while they were resting after laboring for a sugar cane plantation harvest.They were supposedly robbed and attacked by armed men, and in front of Waway's eyes his wife was raped and brutally killed, and he was stabbed and shot several times and was also left for dead. He managed to survive the wounds and the grave ordeal,but has gone berserk and became a serial- killer since then.

Sudden news broke out about 3 months ago, with matching posters and flyers plus the supposed picture of "Waway" being posted 'round Danao, Compostela, and Liloan reminding everyone to be on the lookout for the dangerous criminal and be vigilant to call the authorities at his sighting.

I got the chance to hear news about him, when i overheard my cousin mention that he's going to bed early and watch over his house to safeguard against "Waway". I made him tell the story but to my bewilderment as i thought, that by now the police in my town, should this guy be on the loose; would be scampering checkpoints and night patrols,not to mention that a news "scoop" like this surely will never escape the nose of the media.

I heard some neighbors talk that he supposedly attacked a woman in Danao (raped and then supposedly plucked out one of her breasts thereafter.)Others would say that he has victimized another woman from one of the mountainous barangays in Compostela; and just recently, his sighting on far-away Lapu-Lapu; then the story would be told all over again, with different versions this time!(Another case of the Habal-habal story?)

This guy's popularity coupled with the tale and the posting seems authentic indeed, that it has attracted some attention from the media, and some prominent personalities scoured the town police stations for the authenticity of his story and the corresponding details that go with it, but to no avail; Policemen either don't have him in their records or would just say that he never existed; but a spark did came when a precinct from Danao; i think, commented that they have a record of him on a case back in 2004 and that it was the relatives of "Waway" that allegedly posted pictures of him around the city and the surrounding towns. Where the scare started, I've never known.

Provided that this guy's tale and what he does is true; has everyone on a scare-and a good thing mind you, as the streets became empty of late-night brawls of gangs and hang-outers!

People would say that he's out there on the prowl and that everyone is reminded to be home at night with the men to be always on the lookout for their women and children.

Still the question remains, is he a man or just another myth?...

View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir
Source: Message in a Bottle

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Check out the poetry (if you can call it that) plus more I managed to brew up at Papersnpen!

Writing Exercises: Writing Back Cover Stories

The Assignment:

According to Jim Kochenburger, VP-Townhall Press, a research shows that most people spend less than 15 seconds reading the back cover of a book before deciding to purchase.

The book's back cover is a sales pitch and nothing else – it’s about engaging a potential reader's interest to cross the threshold of the book. You want action. You want to get people to look inside your book—or better yet, to buy it. Your back cover is the last piece of promotional material that hits potential purchasers on their way to pay.

Today’s exercise is an attempt to writing a back cover copy. Select one from the titles and explore. And from the story that plays around on your head, you may come up with a back cover copy. A good goal for cover copy is 150 words, 200 if you must.

  1. The Last Outrage
  2. Strangers in Paradise
  3. The Year of Yes
  4. The Devil in the White City
  5. A Life in Two Genders
  6. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café
  7. Sleeping with the Fishes

***Below is what I came
up with for my choice, (The Last Outrage) I made up a story based on the popular PC strategy game : Battle Realms...



The Last Outrage


Mordikai, the country besieged by war is the setting for this awe inspiring sequel to last year’s best seller- Conspiracy at the Trenches.

Kenji, now aided by the heroic band of warriors from the Wolf Clan began the treacherous journey to the Kingdom of Levi to save Reva, the demi-god druid and Kenji’s love interest now held captive by the Cult of Samael on the bowels of Mount Shinja.

On the way, they will battle and make friends with the noble but deadly band of notorious thieves known as the Serpent Clan and will cross paths with the defiant band of Mordikai’s warrior-elite, the Dragon warriors. See how Kenji survives a near fatal blow that will lead him and his warriors at the mercy of Mordikai’s most powerful clan- Lotus.

The country’s tide will turn as Kenji, thru a duel of swords, is able to slay Arachnid- the treacherous Lotus pack master; and will in turn be proclaimed as the clan’s new leader.

Swords and Sorcery will clash once again as Kenji lead the united clans to go and battle the dreaded Berserker and his evil Samaels.

Will Reva be freed and will Mordikai’s peace be restored?...


View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Source: Message in a Bottle



Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Talk about discipline: The Dancing Inmates of the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC)

Here's one cool way to practice discipline in prison! Just imagine the hard work that everybody from the jail guards down to the inmates puts into this activity- and it's daily mind you!

These inmates from the Island of Cebu, Philippines is now in the walk of fame worldwide courtesy of their videos thru You Tube featuring their Algorithm dance moves and more!.

I've got my hat's off to those responsible for this activity, as this is one way to channel the inmates' energy to do creative things instead of minding riots and gangs amidst the weighing, and worsening population amongst our penitentiaries.

hmmm...wished every penitentiary would follow their example someday.

Check out their moves on this video; Radio Gaga- by Queen.

Source: Message in a Bottle
View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Tuesday, August 07, 2007

Writing Exercises: Making a Super-product Flyer


In the writer's pool we had a stretch to make a flyer copy for a super product we can think of, in an hour, complete with loads of information for the product in one small piece of paper and still manage to keep it interesting to sell even if the product itself may come as boring.

Here's what i came up with...hahaha


Time Capsule Coffin ZXD


In 201 B.C. the Pharaohs of Egypt built the great pyramids to settle in when they die and to preserve their bodies,watching the eons pass by...

Well, they gave us wonders to see, but did their sarcophagi and pyramids held true to their motive?

From the makers of NASA Space capsules – Pantheon Technologies Ltd. comes the state of the art innovation of a funeral equipment that everybody most offend neglects and hates the sight of – the traditional coffin.

Now you’ll never be afraid of death and look at coffins the same way again with Time Capsule Coffin ZXD complete with technological features:

  • Titanium Exoskeleton for maximum protection from the elements and the wear and tear of time
  • NBC (Nuclear, Biochemical, and Chemical) shield
  • Lifetime- Environment Microchip Controller, giving you the right amount of moisture and preservative- for that fresh first day of death look
  • EVAC INI- Evacuation Initiator, with all-terrain wheels and rocket boosters (Your computer guardian complete with danger sensors to automatically transfer you to another area in cases of emergency)
  • Light Weight and No Batteries! – Time capsule coffins come with self producing power paint that will last as long your coffin does
  • Comes in Custom-made Stylish Colors and Designs that will surely fit you and your lifestyle


With Time Capsule Coffin ZXD, unlike the foolish pharaohs, why would you just live for one lifetime when you can last FOREVER

Visit our website now at: www.pantheontech.com or call our toll free hotline at: 1-800-622. Our friendly technicians will attend to your needs 24/7. Just contact us thru these details and we’ll visit, advice, and give a quote on the unit that you want, wherever you are in the World!


Pantheon Technologies Ltd.

Harnessing technology to stand the test of time

www.pantheontech.com


Friday, August 03, 2007

Message in a bottle: Writing exercises: 30-word Cinquains

Message in a bottle: Writing exercises: 30-word Cinquains

Message in a bottle: Transformers: More than meets the eye

Message in a bottle: Transformers: More than meets the eye

Check the Earplugz: My Dizzler Playlist

So nice to sit down on the beach and listen to my Dizzler playlist. Check it out and enjoy!

Transformers: More than meets the eye

Certainly the best movie up to date! Had fun watching it and felt a deep sense of satisfaction just watching one of my childhood hero series come alive on screen.

I had anticipated the release of this movie (tagging along our favorite munchies) and I’m glad to say along with millions more autobot fans out there that the movie producers have outdone themselves this time. A loud Bravo and kudos to all of you!

Last July 7, 2007 I went along with Jasmin to watch the movie at SM City Cebu, and man the place was fully packed with some comforting themselves, either sitting on the stairs or leaning against the walls!

Lucky I brought along my lighter as I was able to spot two seats near the center row and quickly settled in before somebody spot the comforting bays; (you'll have to be nimble in these situations)

Talk about a hell of a movie, the action scenes and CGI effects knocked me off my seat! Plus, the plot is cool; although some slight changes were employed (The all spark story and Optimus’ hot rod looks) Where the hell is omega when you need him?

Anyways, turning my attention once in a while to discuss the characters and powers to my awe amazed girlfriend (who’s just been introduced to the Transformers universe by the way; too much muggles and wizardry on her mind) I had a chance to catch a glimpse of the people around us, with whom as the movie progressed, just fixed their eyes onscreen silent and dumb founded.

The movie ended with a standing ovation, with all of us filling the cinema with laughter and loud clapping.

Never have I seen a CGI movie (much more a transformers movie) with so much impact on an audience. Autobots, transform and roll out!



Friday, July 20, 2007

Writing exercises: 30-word Cinquains

I got the idea for this great writing exercise from Adria's Cinquain community project site; do check her site out at: http://incinq.blogspot.com and get in line with everybody's bigger picture of life, expressed in a few words.(as always, more power to you and thanks for the inspiration.)

I shared it among the writer pool, along with some pictures as topics, with a format of having 30 words (5 lines x 6 words on each.)

Below are what I came up for my part.

A.



B.





A. Living with hunger

I swallowed my pride in asking

The pain, deliberate hunger hid undertow

Getting weaker, death in the making,

Crawling, aching, feeling my blood flow

Hoping for pity you might bestow.



B. Toilet Blues

Gripping mayhem with hands trembling stiff

Cursing the heavens, running down fast

Holding, gastronomic gases that people sniff

In desperation, hold out the last

Letting out bowels, watching them splat.


View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Source: Message in a Bottle


Monday, June 18, 2007

Tagai kog Haiku- Three senseless Haikus in the traditional format

Pole vault

Hanging in the air

A grip and a mechanism

Dash and jump to surpass the goal


Capoiera

A dancing beat flies

Lethal but fun to witness

Quick paced atmosphere


Flood

A sudden flutter

Clears the dampening bottom

I wade my guts by


View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Source: Message in a Bottle




Tuesday, June 05, 2007

3 Stars and a Sun- a tete-a-tete on the Philippine independence


This June 12 marks another yet tedious year in which we all celebrate our “freedom” from tyranny, poverty, apathy, corruption, greed and of course debt?

Let us skip the boohoos and simply look back to the cause of our heroes. Their blood became the legal tender and their lives, the bitter-sweet payment so we’ll enjoy the “freedom” that we have today, but still the question remains…are we really free?

For 300 years we were under the Spanish conquistadors and 3 centuries we suffered under their greed and oppression which eventually ended after long years of bloody struggles and revolts.

Like children waking up from a nightmare our forefathers lived by the sword and abruptly took their grip on the mighty power.

Another century followed with big brother America, bringing renaissance, education, political prowess, and capitalism. Things went well for a time until that fateful bridge incident that sparked the revolt and abruptly ended their stay. With the declaration of independence, the nation rejoiced back then, but only for a short time.

Other experiences that deepened the wound of freedom came to being, World war, Marcos regime and the worst of them all –poverty and corruption that is still existent to this day.

The transition after transition of people in power only proves futile for only promises and lies were heard of from their sweet tongues.

Nowadays, wanton crimes are becoming rampant coupled with rising prices of commodities, plus the shadow of greed and corruption…when will we experience the real essence of freedom? When everything we do, when everything we see and hear slowly becomes quite a burden…

Source: Message in a Bottle

View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Friday, May 25, 2007

My writing exercises: Acrostics (poetry with acronyms)





What's in a name?
Well, I interpreted mine in poetic lines in our recently concluded exercises. Try yours and fire away!

The Eagle


Just as the sun rises in the east,

Over the silent hills, fertile valleys he seeks.

Vines and wires, the long miles he takes.

In search of prey, to fill his hungry heart with a feast,

Roaring courage like thunder, but swift as the wind;


A king is on the hunt again.

Master of the heavens, yet frail in manner,

An eagle is proud with no prejudice; yet a comical hunter.

To live by the claw and rule the clouds,

Over nature’s mercenaries, lay claim to their blood.

Naive yet a killer, merciless; an arrogant scream he cries,

Gone in a blink after a graceful killing; he takes to the skies.


Source: Message in a Bottle


Thursday, March 15, 2007

A piece of advice everybody should hold on to: Baz Luhrmann - Everybody's free (to wear sunscreen)




Here's one song that really sticks to my mind whenever i seek advice. Posted below are the lyrics to Baz Luhrmann's speech for a song: Everybody's free(to wear sunscreen). To hear the mp3, do check out the earplugz. enjoy


Ladies and Gentlemen of the class of ’99, wear sunscreen.
If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it.

The long term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable than my own meandering experience…I will dispense this advice now.

Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth;
Oh nevermind; you will not understand the power and beauty of your youth until they have faded.
But trust me, in 20 years you’ll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can’t grasp now how much possibility lay before
you and how fabulous you really looked….

You’re not as fat as you imagine. Don’t worry about the future; or worry, but know that worrying is as
effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubblegum.

The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that
never crossed your worried mind; the kind that blindside you at 4pm on some idle Tuesday. Do one thing everyday that scares you.

Sing.
Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts, don’t put up with people who are reckless with yours.

Floss. Don’t waste your time on jealousy; sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind…
The race is long, and in the end, it’s only with yourself.
Remember the compliments you receive, forget the insults; if you
succeed in doing this, Tell me how. Keep your old love letters; throw away your old bank statements.

Stretch. Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your
life…the most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives, some of the most interesting 40 year olds I know still don’t.

Get plenty of calcium. Be kind to your knees, you’ll miss them when they’re gone. Maybe you’ll marry, maybe you won’t, maybe you’ll have children, maybe you won’t, maybe you’ll divorce at 40, maybe you’ll dance the funky chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary…

Whatever you do, don’t congratulate yourself too much or berate yourself either – your
choices are half chance, so are everybody else’s.

Enjoy your body, use it every way you can…don’t be afraid of it, or what other people
think of it, it’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever own..

Dance…even if you have nowhere to do it but in your own living room.
Read the directions, even if you don’t follow them. DO NOT read beauty magazines, they will only make you feel ugly.

Get to know your parents; you never know when they’ll be gone for good.
Be nice to your siblings; they are the best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future.

Understand that friends come and go, but for the precious few you should hold on.
Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle because the older you get, the more you need the people you knew when you were young.
Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard;
live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft.


Travel. Accept certain inalienable truths, prices will rise, politicians will philander, you too will get old, and when you do you’ll fantasize that when you were young; prices were reasonable, politicians were noble and children respected their elders.

Respect your elders. Don’t expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund,
maybe you have a wealthy spouse; but you never know when either one might run out.

Don’t mess too much with your hair, or by the time you're 40, it will
look 85. Be careful whose advice you buy, but, be patient with those who supply it. Advice is a form of nostalgia, dispensing it is a way of fishing the past from the disposal, wiping it off, painting over the ugly parts and recycling it for more than it’s worth. But trust me on the sunscreen…

Source: Message in a Bottle

Friday, March 09, 2007

Writing exercises: (Nano- fiction composition in 55 words)




Figured this is a great exercise. In the writer's pool we were given instructions to come up with a nano-fiction in just 55 words, titles to start and with the parts:

a. Setting
b. Character/ characters
c. Conflict
d. Resolution

1. Trouble on the mountain side


They were just miles away to reach the ground. Pete, Sam and their guides were taking a break near the crevasse, took their last look at the mysterious beauty surrounding Devil’s gate. “We’d better be off guys, before it gets dark. Sam, is that snow coming down the side?” “Nope” Sam replied “its just clouds.”


2. Christmas in the Ant Colony

Christmas, the time for feasting in the ant colony. The queen before the crowd of workers decreed that whoever will open the enormous storage bins will become her king. Five drones and two workers stepped up for the challenge. The five drones failed but the workers succeeded, thus, the two became kings, a crown each.


3. Interfering with History

The time machine swiveled. From inside, Peter and Paul stepped out cautiously to see a prehistoric world before them. “All follies and ridicules are now long gone Paul, Look at the sight! we’d better step out and explore!” “wait” Paul retorted. “Perhaps we should linger awhile inside, I hear a ferocious roar in the distance.”

Friday, March 02, 2007

Writing Exercises: (Writing a personality profile without using a single Adjective- 300 words minimum)




whew! figured I have to post this one- another exercise given by my boss and man, I sucked myself on making it! I reviewed this one before submission, but still a few words managed to get through my caffeine infested eyes. This page, became bloody red upon checking.

Me in a nutshell


I was born into this world in the year of our lord, nineteen hundred and eighty, to teachers’- Jose and Virginia Amatong. I was raised by my parents in the town of Compostela – a town situated at the northern part of the island and stands approximately 24 kilometers from the metropolitan and has been enjoying my stay in that town ever since.

I attained the levels of education in the centers of learning on that place and eventually moved to the city.

After graduation, I immediately worked and moved from different establishments in the city to explore the other fields of writing before eventually moving to iCOMM International in order to equip my skills further in writing for the World Wide Web, marketing, and advertising.

I am one with adventurism, open-mindedness, and curiosity. I am willing to just about venture into anything that I might find to be of worth knowing.

I am an enthusiast of music- to the point where I’m singing the genre I like on stage, goldfishes, sci-fi and fantasy books, movies, arcade and PC strategy games, and I have a penchant for gardening and is slowly developing my knowledge in raising the ruminants on our farm.

In the 26 years of my existence, I am still wandering about, gathering what I could to prepare myself for married life. I have a fiancé right now and I admit that even if the thought of marrying her is on my mind I am still considering a lot of things. For one, I fear marriage without stability and I want things to go smoothly when the time has come for me to face that, without sacrificing my freedom to do the things I like.

I really enjoy the freedom that I have for now. Being a child without siblings, has taught me a lot of things- not only in the aspects of personality, my being, and all those things that can only be taught inside the four corners of a classroom, but how I look at freedom and life in a kaleidoscope of a child without siblings, left on his decisions to wander in the streets.

This is me, said in a nutshell.

Thursday, March 01, 2007

The Prisoner (An office daydream)


Tonight ill climb those high walls again
Which to me, no man would dare climb
Go past the sentries, In the dead of the night.
Run past the watchdogs, with eyes red as blood.
Ravenous, with teeth razor sharp.

Step upon those thorny bushes that cut like knives
Past those gleaming searchlights.
Get a grip on those protruding white stones
Slowly and painfully inch my way to the top.

This ball and chain ill try to break away
With an iron saw in hand, coupled with a hardened gut
frail hands must cut through this cell
A small burden for a prize I had long for.

Surely they’ll hit me with what they’ve got
The cunning arts I must employ
Battle with my fears, grind my teeth
In silence, I must camouflage.

In hell’s kitchen I will burn,
To get caught or not,
The only cards I’ll play

If I’d get caught
My body, in bullet holes will be pierced
But It’s worth the gamble, for freedom I pray…

Then all of a sudden, What the heck?
The thought I must leave for another day
For I’ve just waken up from a daydream.
Wipe the drool off my chin.

I still have to work, on my PC I suppose,
Got a moments loss, into a doze
Assignments to finish, and earn my way
For the good of my wages, there are bills to pay… (JAmatong)


Message in a Bottle


Message in a Bottle: Untitled (A dose of Prose dedicated to the famous)

Message in a Bottle: Untitled (A dose of Prose dedicated to the famous)

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Untitled (A dose of Prose dedicated to the famous)



A payment to you.
Life’s ladder you climbed.
The instrument to reach your ambition.
A lifestyle you uphold.
A dedicated occupation.
A family you saved.

The ramps you passed.
Under glaring lights.
Mystic cameras.
Creates a billboard for me,
A light on screen.
A colored blot to view on the morning paper.
A face gracing the magazine covers.
New clothes to wear.
Cushions to sleep.
Life’s luxuries.

Yes, life on the fast lane
Popularity,
The money, cars
Engrossed on the limelight.
Busy schedules to keep,
Sleepless city lights,
Frenzy city nights.

What’s on the other side?
I don’t know
You could be a friend.
Perhaps a foe,
Perhaps a cellophane,
Life’s misery, you hid undertow.

Villains, they will haunt you
Envy your success.
On deaf ears, let them pass,

For you are loved, subtle and simple;

behind your back he has always reside

though he may not have much...

Live your days.
Always keep a sane mind.

Follow not deviant ways.
Look life not upon a shelf.
Together, build a house,
Raise a family,
Make it into a home.

When all this will be over
Look upon your shoulder,
Take a peek,
On things you have surpassed.

Looking in the mirror,
Your lips will crack into a smile.
You lived your life.
You’ve made your mark…

And when it's time to go
To yourself, you'll say…
“I’ll see you when you get there…
If you’d ever get there, someday”…

Jasmin Uy


Message in a Bottle



Friday, February 16, 2007

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: A Love Letter ( A gay criminal writes to his police captor)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: A Love Letter ( A gay criminal writes to his police captor)

Writing Exercises: A Love Letter ( A gay criminal writes to his police captor)


A letter written in perfumed stationery was posted on a local police precinct bulletin board, and reads:


Dearest SPO3 N. Santiliano,

Though this letter may come as very surprising and embarrassing to you, but please know that I’m only grabbing the last opportunity that’s left for me in this world to let you know how much I feel for you. Before ill walk the dark aisle that leads to death’s chamber tomorrow, I’ll utter for the first time the words that I feared that someday ill say. “I love you” and I guess ill carve my feelings for you on the headstone of my grave.

I remembered the first time that our paths met clearly, that it seems forever etched in my mind. It started on a typical Monday morning, when after a few shots rang out, you and your partner were abruptly chasing me on the gutters of Avenue 21 after I punched a couple of holes on that little old lady who refused to hand me her purse.

I ran as fast as I could to get away from you, but when I turned around and saw you chasing me I was stunned, it’s as if I got lost in the moment and I could not move. How I loved seeing your kinky hair that came to me like shining spirals in the pale-yellow light of the morning; and seeing the shadow of your silhouette approaching me in a fast pace; yes I couldn’t run.

How I loved the scent of your perfume and the way you grabbed me with ease and precision. The part that almost melted me into a drool was when you handcuffed me, yes our eyes met in a daze.

Since that fateful moment, I was never the same again. It melted the street-hardened heart that was in me and it seems like the everyday hardships that I had to endure in this rusted prison cell came to me like a scout on camp for an evening with marshmallows roasting on a bonfire.

Yes, I love you Nilo, even if it takes the dignity that’s in me, for you mean and will always be my world. Sadly I bid to you my heart this evening as soon as the prison chaplain arrives and let everyone be the witness of my undying love before I heed death’s calling for the wrong that I have committed.

Just grant me the very last of my wishes, and ill be the happiest one to enter the dreaded chamber come dawn’s first rays of light.

Loving you on death row,

Horacio “Boy- Bakal” Igmi

View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir


Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Message in a Bottle: Sting and the Police - Message in a Bottle

Message in a Bottle: Sting and the Police - Message in a Bottle

Sting and the Police - Message in a Bottle

Here's a classic that best blends in well with this blog, from Sting and The Police check out the lyrics and video. enjoy!

Message in a Bottle

Just a castaway, an island lost at sea, oh
Another lonely day, with no one here but me, oh
More loneliness than any man could bear
Rescue me before I fall into despair, oh

Ill send an s.o.s. to the world
Ill send an s.o.s. to the world
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah

A year has passed since I wrote my note
But I should have known this right from the start
Only hope can keep me together
Love can mend your life but
Love can break your heart
Ill send an s.o.s. to the world
Ill send an s.o.s. to the world
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah

Walked out this morning, dont believe what I saw
Hundred billion bottles washed up on the shore
Seems Im not alone at being alone
Hundred billion castaways, looking for a home
Ill send an s.o.s. to the world
Ill send an s.o.s. to the world
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah
Message in a bottle, yeah
Sending out at an s.o.s.
Sending out at an s.o.s.
Sending out at an s.o.s.
Sending out at an s.o.s.
Sending out at an s.o.s.
Sending out at an s.o.s...

View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir


Wednesday, February 07, 2007

Message in a Bottle: The Sound Recipe - The Excutioners and Linkin' Park

Message in a Bottle: The Sound Recipe - The Excutioners and Linkin' Park

The Sound Recipe - The Executioners and Linkin' Park

Check out these two videos, they're really way above the cool meter with just the right mixture of the musical elements: Rock, Electronica, added- in by a dash of Hip-hop; brings about that exquisite nostalgic treat.

The first being a choice cut from the kitchens of the master chefs, The Executioners in collaboration with Linkin Park and the second from the Linkin' Park Confectionery.

you're in for a treat that'll get your ears glued.



Monday, February 05, 2007

Jason Mraz - Mr. A to Z magnifico!

“The Lord of layback music”. That’s the best title that I say truly fits Jason Mraz.

From the first time that I heard his songs (off from A to Z), the sudden burst of unique mix of beats, (That’s pleasing to the ears, mind you) coupled with fast paced lyrics somehow turned me into an instant sound addict that I want to hear the songs and sing them all over again for the rest of my office life! (Much to the moans of complaints from my office mates.)

Songs like: Geek in the Pink, Mr. Curiosity, Clock watching, Please don’t tell her, Did you get my message, Wordplay, and Remedy from his old album has been playing in my mind ever since and I find it very amusing that only a few artists can do this sensation to me, and kudos to Jason for doing that!

Try his sound remedy, I’m pretty sure you’ll get in the bandwagon in no time! if you don't believe me; feel free to check out his video, Wordplay.

View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir



Message in a Bottle: The Loon Bohol Diarrhea Outbreak- (That pesky restroom urge)

Message in a Bottle: The Loon Bohol Diarrhea Outbreak- (That pesky restroom urge)

Thursday, February 01, 2007

The Loon Bohol Diarrhea Outbreak- (That pesky restroom urge)


With the recent news about an outbreak of diarrhea in the small town of Loon, Bohol (The Freeman Newspaper, Cebu 02/01/2007 / Jasmin Uy below) should teach not only the residents but us a lesson or two to keep sanitation a constant in our homes; this alarm has led to the hospitalization of hundreds of residents and claimed a couple of lives.

This just holds true to the fact (though a bit hard to admit) that with the coming of age for the Philippines, still a lot of our citizens, especially those that are living in far off countrysides, STILL DON’T HAVE TOILETS!

I find it ironic that as the country is slowly emerging in the business world and that the government sat busily promoting I.T. and exports, then news such as this comes along.

Man it’s 2007 and problems such these should have been long gone. I leave credits to the government because I find their information drive to be adequate but the real problem is in the people; because from what I’ve seen, even patches of small forests, beaches, and dark areas are not safe for would be- portable toilet seekers!

Just took a walk at a local beach once, I felt relaxed seeing the serene view and the calmness of the water, then all of a sudden Splat! I stepped upon a land mine (poop, I mean). There you have it; perhaps we should educate ourselves the right manners straight to our brains, because if we don’t then unhealthy events such as this pesky restroom urge will always leave us dry, once in a while.


DOH: Bacteria caused Loon diarrhea outbreak

The Freeman 02/01/2007

The presence of bacteria in the drinking water triggered the diarrhea outbreak that killed four people and hospitalized more than 400 others in Loon, Bohol, according to the Department of Health. DOH regional director Susana Madarietta said shigella flexneri, amoeba and e-coli are the kinds of bacteria that contaminated the drinking water of residents in Loon brought about by their unsanitary practices.

DOH confirmed the presence of bacteria in 12 out of the 14 rectal swabs from the diarrhea patients in the place. Test results showed that amoeba, e-coli and shigella flexneri bacteria have caused bacillary dysentery or diarrhea among the patients. Compared to amoeba, shigella flexneri spreads very easily.

The presence of the bacteria means that the water source of Loon has been contaminated. "The presence of shigella flexneri means water contamination from human feces," Madarietta said.

Loon Mayor Cesar Lopez, a doctor, said the bacteria came mostly from fecal oral root, which means that "it came from water and that it spreads through person-to-person contact." However, DOH is still awaiting the results of the water analysis from at least three water sources of Loon and two refilling stations. The water analysis is being conducted at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center.

Even if DOH officials have already pinpointed the bacteria, they will still need the results of the water analysis for comparison. Madarietta said they have already put in place a command outpost in Loon that will provide medicine, fluids and needles to the residents, adding that they are visiting every household to educate them on proper sanitation and distribute packs chlorine.

Aside from boiling the water, DOH also recommended proper hygiene such as constant hand washing as well as proper waste disposal. Lopez said the public can already get water from their water source but for safety measures, each household should also practice self-chlorination.

He said one of the major problems in the town is that some houses, especially those in the mountain barangays, do not have toilets. Because of this, residents are used to disposing of their human wastes outside their homes. The incessant rains last December until the early part of January could have caused the fecal matter to seep into the water sources.

Lopez said with this development, the local government should implement the Sanitation Code of the Philippines, explaining that under the law, each household should have its own sanitary toilet. He said since Dec. 25, there have been 408 victims of the diarrhea outbreak with two fatalities - a three-year-old girl and a 57-year-old woman. But he added that the 58-year-old woman reported as the latest fatality died of infection in the upper respiratory system.

At least 369 patients were admitted to different hospitals in Bohol. As of yesterday, some 80 patients remain at the Natalio Castillo Memorial Hospital. - Jasmin R. Uy

View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercise- An Application Letter

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercise- An Application Letter

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: Minimalism - The Defense of the Weak

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: Minimalism - The Defense of the Weak

Message in a Bottle: A Future with Robots (Article late this year)

Message in a Bottle: A Future with Robots (Article late this year)

Message in a Bottle: Writing excercise: I sold the empty cans (Tritina style)

Message in a Bottle: Writing excercise: I sold the empty cans (Tritina style)

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercise: A Blood- stained alibi (The most absurd alibis)

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercise: A Blood- stained alibi (The most absurd alibis)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: The Reunion and the Loss (Scriptwriting)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: The Reunion and the Loss (Scriptwriting)

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercises: Mama Sita (Reflection monologue)

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercises: Mama Sita (Reflection monologue)

Message in a Bottle: Marketing Peeps

Message in a Bottle: Marketing Peeps

Message in a Bottle: Axistrizero

Message in a Bottle: Axistrizero

Message in a Bottle: The Light by the Window (An ode to Jasmin Uy)

Message in a Bottle: The Light by the Window (An ode to Jasmin Uy)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: Never Say Die, Tin Eagle (Fiction)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: Never Say Die, Tin Eagle (Fiction)

Message in a Bottle: Charter Change...Friend or Foe?

Message in a Bottle: Charter Change...Friend or Foe?

Message in a Bottle: A Horror Story in 500 Words: T'was the Night of Halloween

Message in a Bottle: A Horror Story in 500 Words: T'was the Night of Halloween

Message in a Bottle: Writing excercise: I sold the empty cans (Tritina style)

Message in a Bottle: Writing excercise: I sold the empty cans (Tritina style)

Message in a Bottle: Writing excercise: I sold the empty cans (Tritina style)

Message in a Bottle: Writing excercise: I sold the empty cans (Tritina style)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: The Reunion and the Loss (Scriptwriting)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercises: The Reunion and the Loss (Scriptwriting)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: A Forest Walk (Poem)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: A Forest Walk (Poem)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: A Forest Walk (Poem)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: A Forest Walk (Poem)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: The Blind Minstrel (Prose)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: The Blind Minstrel (Prose)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: How I became Hemophobic (A Vampire tells all)

Message in a Bottle: Writing Exercise: How I became Hemophobic (A Vampire tells all)

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercise- Presidentiable 1 or 2? (The argument I had with my consience during the past national polls)

Message in a Bottle: Writing exercise- Presidentiable 1 or 2? (The argument I had with my consience during the past national polls)

Message in a Bottle: On Television...Your World (An ode to Francine Prieto)

Message in a Bottle: On Television...Your World (An ode to Francine Prieto)

Monday, January 29, 2007

Writing exercises: Mama Sita (Reflection monologue)


Mama Sita, what was once the bold, now sits sadly on her rocking chair in a state-owned nursing home and is kept alive by social welfare. There is no one left to care for her; no immediate family, no relatives- with the passing years, they all went and were laid to rest in their graves.

Now a frail old woman, her wrinkles lay witness to the passing ages; sadly sit on her rocking chair, looks before the mirror to see a sad lifeless shell looking back, and slowly tears began to fall from her eyes…

“Never in my life have I imagined that this moment will come… its 2007 and all those years that have passed before me, lay wasted. How did I let myself be fooled by my two- cent conscience to believe that a life of celibacy would do me a great favor and will make a good example for other women in my time to be free- forever free from the burden of having to care for a good for nothing man, free from the burden of having to care for his children, free from the burden of carrying his children in my womb for nine months, and most of all to preserve my chastity.

Yes, I was popular back then, for my belief has attracted the attention of everyone but at what expense? Now that I am on my 98th year at the peak of the ladder of life, I have no one to turn to except these white walls.

There is no more turning back, I will gladly face my death and accept defeat without even tasting that organic heaven that makes up a man.

How could I have feasted my body on that sizzling organic life form, squeezed its life juices until I’ve satisfied myself and enjoyed the joyous pain. I could have borne children, which could have cared for me when I have gotten old and would have gladly passed on the genes of their bold mother to the coming generations.

I could’ve made a family, a family that’s happy and full of life, and best of all I could have shared the cradle of happiness doing those nightly rituals with a better half.

Yes I’ve been a fool all along, how I envy the other patients when their families pay them a visit but here I am, sitting like a rotten apple awaiting death for the worms in this nursing home...I have no one to turn to and perhaps one of these coming days I’ll die, but on the bright side; I have no one to pass on my guilt. (Silently sobs).”


View: http://www.yuwie.com/jovir

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Writing Exercises: The Reunion and the Loss (Scriptwriting)

Character description:

Gino Carpio: A “Balikbayan” Marine engineer who has recently been home fresh from his exploits in the United States, to the small town of Moalboal. They are childhood friends with Melvin but got separated for many years after Gino’s family moved to manila for him and his siblings to study.

John Peli: A proud owner of a popular “sari-sari” store chain in Moalboal’s town market. He has been longing to see Gino again but lost contact with his friend. After graduating college, he has managed to put up his own business and has been prosperous ever since.

Scene 1
One early morning, as Gino was jogging off in the town plaza, he decided to go around the town’s important places and see what changes had he missed after he left it.

As breakfast time is growing near, he decided that a bowl of “Utan bisaya” would be a great alternative to his usual American diet and a healthy one too, considering the parties and beers that he has taken up since he came home the other day.

So he decided to proceed to the town market and buy the vegetables that he need to brew up a healthy bowl.

He looked around at how his town market have changed, in infrastructure- far from his childhood days wherein he’d picture out cigar smoking fat ladies just selling their goods off from blankets all laden with the fruits, vegetables, and poultry products that the town has to offer.

He was just gathering up the items on his list when he happened to spot from one of the stalls, his childhood friend and confidant, John busily attending to his customers.

He came up to him, said his greetings and teary eyed gave John a hug and a kiss, (which was their usual greeting back in their childhood days) much to the amazement of onlookers.

At first, John was astonished and was not able to recognize him right away but after seeing Gino’s eyebrow, was able to recognize him and return the greetings.

Gino started a conversation with John, and started talking- reminiscing the times that they’ve spent together.

Gino: (after staring at Melvin for a minute) Did I ever tell you about Daisy? Daisy Fuentes I mean.

John: Err, did you say anything? Ohh yeah… Daisy now I remember! Why what’s up with her?

Gino: Yup Daisy, the girl whom I used to date back in high school, man how cute she has become! Just this morning I saw her jogging in the town plaza, and I recognized her right away. Man was she hot! Looking at those curves, wonder if she’s still single though; I haven’t got the chance to come up to her as I was going the other way.

John: I see, (looking at Gino with eyebrows raised) well she’s just around. News is that she’s married with two kids and she’s working at the municipal hall. She has been here in my place a lot and what a coincidence, just the other day she was here and asked a few questions about you too.

Gino: Dude, the guy that must have got her is the luckiest, I mean just by looking at her; she hasn’t aged a bit and the way I see it, she’s so sexy that she could easily pass as single in my eyes!

John: Err, hihihi. (drawing Gino’s attention to a bunch of spring onions) these would be great for “Utan” just add in the chicken and you’re good to go!

Gino: What’s up with you? I thought I told you I wanted to buy vegetables for “Utan” not “Tinola”!

John: Err, sorry… hihihi just got carried away. Anyway, I figured you might like to buy these too just in case

Gino: hahaha, man you still haven’t changed a bit, don’t you? You always seem to be thinking of something else whenever we’re talking
John: Err, yeah so I thought so anyway…

Gino: Now getting back to where we stopped, man Daisy….she’s the best! Anyways, so who’s the lucky guy?

John: Err, yup…me.

Gino: hahaha, your joking man, really… you?

John: Yup, I’ve been looking for ways to tell you this, but after you left her, we got engaged and got married. We now have two kids.

Gino: (Staring staring silently at Melvin) wooh no way! Really?... She married you?

John: Yup, and has always been for three years now

Gino: Really can’t believe it but anyways man, but I think it’s getting late and I have to cook these. Maybe, I could visit you at your house and meet with you guys one of these days?
John: Sure no problem man, but I think any day this week would be a bad idea. We’re so busy here (mouth starts to hone up bubbles, and starts to drool; drawing Gino’s attention)…maybe next week…
Gino: Hey your mouth’s watering man! Quit the joke already…hey, you guys (to the other sales clerks) lend me some help here! there’s something wrong with Melvin… hey, you ok? (catches a collapsing John) say something dude!...here…

John: Yes, I think the zoo is a terrific idea…

Lights dim, curtains close (End of Scene 1)