Dell or Sears

Just had my late lunch for the day. Just took two scoops of rice and some hot sardines and since it's late afternoon, I ate it along with a cup of hot coffee (not much a perfect combination right? hehe). It was satisfying 'coz kinda miss having it for a meal and sardines always makes me remember my home town, Zamboanga City (most sardines factory can be found in Zamboanga City).

Speaking of 'missing', one thing that I will surely miss is my current account at&t u-verse. I will miss my teammates, the stuff we do, the people on the floor, the irate and nice customers, the troubleshooting steps that we do, the tools that we used, everything. So far we only got 1 more week together as we will be deployed to different account next week. Some of us will be staying in the same site, some will be transferred to different sites especially for technical account. Not sure yet for my status, but I have finally decided to take DELL (I passed the interview and training starts this 27th), a technical account, which I think will really help me develop my technical skills. It is a lot further from our place but it's really ok, though at first I was hesitant. Though not sure yet if SEARS will take me too 'coz I had my interview first with them but no result yet if I have made it or not. SEARS is a sales account and I couldn't really imagine myself doing sales. The only reason I tried applying because I wasn't sure then if I will make it in Dell, and SEARS is just in OJV too, so it's closer to our place. But now I have finally decided to take DELL, so my status is still floating 'till SEARS will submit the result on Monday. But I talked to OM and to my coach that I will take DELL but they said they are not sure yet since SEARS interviewed me first and if I made the assessment, I'll be counted in SEARS already....I don't know why it would be difficult for them to give us a chance to choose once we passed both accounts. I mean I wouldn't like it there so the tendency I might not perform.

Anyway, I know everything's gonna be find, I know they will let me take Dell over Sears, 'coz if they won't, I may just attend the training and will still apply to different center. I can't do things that I don't like, especially if I have a lot of choices and chances of doing what I really like.

For now, I'm firm with my decision to take Dell and can't wait to start with the training this 27th Inshallah (If God wills)!

Hereafter - Official Trailer [HD]

After working together successfully with the inspiring bio-film last year in 'Invictus', Director Clint Eastwood and Matt Damon team up again for another film that might earn them another Oscar nominations. Though empty handed from last year Oscar, 'Invictus' was nominated for two major acting awards, Best Actor for Morgan Freeman and Best Supporting Actor for Matt Damon. Clint Eastwood has a total of four Oscar Best Picture films and won two for Unforgiven (1992) and Million Dollar Baby (2004). He was also nominated for Best Actor in lead role for both films. Other nominations include Best Films for Mystic River (2003) and Letters from Iwo Jima (2006). Matt Damon also has three nominations and won one for Best in Screenplay shared with best friend Ben Affleck in "Good Will Hunting". Other nominations include Best Actor for Good Will Hunting and Best Supporting role for Invictus.

Hereafter is a supernatural thriller film that centers in three different people that experience death in so many ways (imdb.com). Also starred by Bryce Dallas Howard (Eclipse, Terminator Salvation, The Village). "Hereafter" will be coming out in cinemas this October 22, 2010.

Disturbed - "Another Way To Die" Official Music Video

Just watched this music video from Channel V this morning, didn't know that an official music video has already been released. The group was not featured in the video but its theme is very meaningful as it talks about pollution that kills the environment and possibly the entire human race if its totally neglected, thus explains the title of the song "Another way to die". Their album is called "Asylum" which debuted at No.1 in Billboard 200 Albums and this is their first single. Searched it in Youtube today and wanna share it to you guys, enjoy!

Eid'l Fitri

Still full with bread and hot coffee that I just took for the Iftar. Still thinking of eating rice later or will just have some noodles and juice with a glass of milk. Tonight could be the last night of Ramadan, if the Islamic leaders world wide declare the last day of fasting tonight, prayer for Eid'l Fitri will be tomorrow morning Inshallah (in God's will). I'm happy and sad at the same time. Happy because it's Eid'l Fitri and every Muslim should celebrate but sad because Ramadan is over.

Glad that my supervisor allowed me to take my rest day on Friday morning so I can pray the Eid'l Fitri prayer, it's also my off on Wednesday 'til Thurday afternoon so I got a two-day off. Currently I'm just waiting for a text message from my cousin so I can go to Taguig tonight or tomorrow night and pray the next morning. It would be my second Eid'l Fitri here in Metro Manila, it's difficult and it made me miss home more. Anyway, I know there is nothing permanent, who knows the next Eid, I'll be back with my family in Zamboanga City Inshallah! Advance Happy Eid'l Fitri to everyone!

An eye-opener to every Filipino

The world witnessed the hostage drama that just ended an hour ago in a tourist bus in Quirino Grandstand, Manila. It took more than 10 hours and left 4 tourists from Hong kong dead along with the hostage taker, who was a former police officer. He was shot in the head by the SWAT who took over the rescue after hearing series of gunshots while on negotiations with policemen. It was really saddening, most especially the people involved are foreigners. I could just imagine how foreign people are thinking about our country now. Nine months ago, Philippines was on every news channel worldwide because of the massacre in Maguindanao that left lot of innocent people dead. Now another incident just happened which sent message to the world that our country is one of the non-peaceful places to live in, maybe next to countries nearby in middle east.

I still do not know the details on why the hostage taker did it, though it was mentioned that he was dismissed from service because of the involvement in serious cases and wanted some demands. But whatever the reason is, end doesn't justify the means, a basic rule. A basic rule that most of us forget to obey. The hostage taker might have wanted a better life for him and his family or may want to send positive message to his superior or to government because of possible neglect of their responsibilities that resulted to his dismissal. He might have wanted to clear his name for whatever reasons. And somewhere along the way, these positive ends that he wanted to achieve was taken to a bloody and gruesome act that took away innocent lives and hurt not just his family but the entire Filipino nation. This is really a challenge for the new government. Hope this would serve as an eye-opener for every one of us. We can't change what just happened a few hours ago, but starting today moving forward, we can always make things better by always doing the right thing. A good act will never turn out bad no matter how tough the consequences are. In the end, good always prevails and God is always with those who do good deeds.

We've been experiencing low volume calls for more than two weeks now. The average avail time is 30 minutes which is really a long wait for us compare to last months which calls on que are atleast 5 calls. We almost had no time to take our breaks and some of us were forced to render overtime for atleast an hour more.Our team is so far on top, passing all the major metrics.

My scorecard is looking good too.Passing all major metrics except for one, which is just corresponding to just 1 point in our scorecard. With the perfect score of 20 points, my score so far is at 17.5 points. And I just need to get at least 8 points to pass.

We really need to keep an eye on our scorecards as it determines our job with at&t. Once you failed the scorecard three times consecutive or not, you will be removed from the account (at&t). Though there are possibilities that you will be transferred to another account, you will be lucky if you will be starting right away. And most of the time it takes a few months before another account would be available for you, so the chances are, either you take a long vacation first (that is if you have a lot of savings) or you take your chance applying to another company. And most of time, it's always the last option that works best.

I'm so happy that I'm still with Sitel - at&t for more than a year now and I really love the job, though it's difficult sometimes and the salary is a bit lower compare to other company, I still like it here. It's more challenging and i'm enjoying the company of my co-workers. And I think that's what matters most. As of now, don't know yet 'til when I'll be staying here, I couldn't really tell, but I'm pretty sure, as long as there is no better opportunity for work abroad, I would still be with Sitel, Inshallah!

Wish things would go back to the way it was before

Just had a hot choco-milk and cheese bread for Iftar today. Woke up almost late and wasn't able to prepare the curry noodles with egg that I was thinking off having for Iftar. Though I was still planning to cook it, the bread and milk made me full and I realized that I still have rice from last night suhoor and couldn't just waste it. So I just ate it with corned beef and sardines along with cold mango juice. Though it's my second Ramadaan here in Manila, this is the first time that I'm eating Iftar alone. Last year I was with my cousins in Taguig and it was never boring during Iftar time. You can prepare your own choice of food without as wet market is accessible. Mosque is just fronting the house so I can always pray Tarawee. I really miss it, I feel so guilty fasting without praying. Hope time comes that I could go back to the way it was before, where praying five times a day is my only hobby Inshallah! This is not the life that I always ask for, but I know this is just temporary.I hope I would already have a job abroad in Saudi or Malaysia whereI can be freely do my responsibility as a Muslim Inshallah!

Salt - Movie Review

Watched this film after the trip to Malaysia. Though this was shown before my flight I didn't have the time to watch it on the first day. I was planning to watch it in Malaysia but didn't have time either. So I waited to come home and watched it the next day after arriving to Manila.

Though the film got mixed reviews from the critics, most viewers (the ordinary people who watched the film and not the professional movie critics) liked it. I didn't expect a lot from the film, 'coz as a movie geek, I really trust the critics, but of course even them got their own views, and getting 50+% from rottentomatoes is already something, it means more than half of the critics like it.

The movie started with Evelyn Salt as an CIA agent (starred by my female action favorite Ms. Angelina Jolie) being tortured as mistaken to be a spy, she was rescued by Mike who later became her husband. While working as CIA agent again and living her marriage life with Mike, her reputation as CIA agent put at risk again when an interrogated Russian suspected her to be a spy and is planning to kill the Russian President. She ran for her life and tried to save her husband.

The plot may seem to be known and has been used in several movies but Salt offers more than we we have seen before. Twists were unpredictable and actions were breath taking and even made more intense by Jolie's effortless acting. Aside from the action thrills, movie is also filled with drama and romance for viewers' takeaway. With powerful support cast from Liev Schreiber (X-Men Origin: Wolverine) and Chiwetel Ejiofor (2012) the movie is one of the best spy films that I have seen. The movie somewhat ended telling the viewers that Evelyn Salt is coming back soon, and if its true hopefully it would be as good as this one.

Visited Malaysia at last

Just got the chance to write again here. Lot of things that I wanted to write about, many things that I wanted to share. Like for instance my trip going to Malaysia. It was the best vacation so far. I was able to meet my sister again after almost five years of not seeing each other. I finally meet my brother whom I never met, 'coz he left the country before I was born. Played with my very cute niece Putri, and met some relatives who really made me feel so at home. Almost everyday we went out and visited the center of trade of Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu and ate Malaysian food. The food was really amazing, and the people were nice. The place was not polluted, it was clean and peaceful. They don't even get stormed there, just mild rain shower but sunny and windy most of the time despite the strong storm here in our country. Food is cheap and most employed people have cars so just imagine the economic status of the country. Salary is higher and no taxes for most employed both government and private workers. I really want to work in Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur, hopefully there would be opportunity for me soon, inshallah!

I really miss everything, more than the food, I really miss my sister, my brother and their families, especially Putri. Hope I can find work there so I would have more time to spend with them. Inshallah!

Some of the photos taken in Sandakan and Kota Kinabaluh Malaysia

Kah Bong and Me

My sister Indah Lai and my niece Putri

With Kah Joe and his wife Inda Saripa at the airport in Malaysia

the last two shots taken in one of the parks in Kota Kinabaluh

Can't wait for Friday

It's the start of my ten-day leave from work. Though my flight for Malaysia is on 30th, I filed my leave started from July 29th to August 6th and since I got my rest day on every Wednesday and Sunday, I got a total of 10 days of time-off from work. So cool right?

So far, I haven't done anything today but to sleep and and started sorting some clothes to bring. But tomorrow I'll buy some stuff, maybe a shirt or a cap for Utoh Jul and Kabs (brother and brother-in-law). I want to buy a doll or stuff-toy for Putri but I'm worried that the people from the airport will ask me to deposit it since I have only a light ticket with no baggage free. So maybe I'll get one for her in Kota Kinabalo instead.

I'm gonna pass by Star Mall tomorrow to see a dentist and a barber to get a hair cut before that. I also need to wash the pair of shoes that I'll be using before living the house tomorrow. And I hope I won't forget the Munchkins that Inda Lai asked me to buy for her. Haay, can't wait for Friday. So excited for my first international flight, hope everything will be ok Inshallah!Ameen!

Pissed with insensitive people

Totally turned off. I can't believe that she is so insensitive. I thought I liked her, I just realized something that pursuing her is not really a good idea. I thought religion was never an issue for me in a relationship as long as you respect each other. But when that person somehow shows hatred or a bit of unwillingness to what you believe?You can't just help but to be offended. I understand people who are non-Muslims that are asking about my religion, like why we don't eat pork and all that. It's fine by me. I'm more than glad to explain to them. But what I can't tolerate is when someone mock your religion, spreading bad things about what you believe based from what they read online or watched from the internet. This is a big issue for me. Though it doesn't involve me directly, there still pointing to Islam in general. They are so insensitive that even you try to explain to them what's really going on, still they don't stop. You wanted to tell them "hey, it's my religion, please have some respect". Do I really need to say the exact words to them. Simply by opposing to what they said should really mean to them that I'm hurt, 'coz they are talking about Muslims and Islam as my religion. But she didn't get the message. I was trying to stop her at least to save the friendship or for sake of being teammates. But there was no apology or anything. I was really pissed. I can't believe that she's that too insensitive, of all the people.

It's not really easy to belong to a place where people are different from what you usually get along with. I'm not talking about people who are non-Muslims, 'coz I got a lot of friends who are Christians, Catholics and others with different religious beliefs, but they don't judge, they respect. Not like some people here in Metro Manila, well not really all, so far there is one person who just pissed me off, and the worst part is, I liked her a lot and now because of it I realized that I'm not into her, at least not anymore. I was just blinded 'coz she is a decent woman, at least that's what I know about her. I'm glad that It wasn't too late for me to know her Alhamdulillah!

The Sorcerer's Apprentice Review

I watched this film without having too much expectations because of the mixed reviews from the critics and some viewers. Since the trailer came out, The Sorcerer's Apprentice is really on the list of my summer movie guide. I got the chance to watch it last Thursday, I even chose watching it over "The Last Airbender". I sat in the middle seat and there were few viewers since I watched it on the second week.

The movie started with the narration on how magic and sorcery and the battle of good and evil begun which common for movies with similar genre

The story begun with Baltazar (Nicholas Cage), Veronica (Monica Belluci), Horvath (Alfred Molina) as apprentices of Merlin, a good and powerful sorcerer. When Horvath along with Morgana, an evil sorcerer who turned against Merlin in order to user their powers and planned to awaken all the deads to bring havoc to people on earth. Baltazar and Veronica must stop them and should look for the apprentice that is destined to defeat Morgana. The apprentice turned out to be the science-geek Dave (Jay Baruchel). As Dave thorned between his personal life and his responsibilities as an apprentice, he should focus and believe in himself that he can fulfill his destiny to become a great sorcerer to save mankind.

Nicholas Cage and Jon Turtletaub seem to be comfortable working together since National Treasure 1 and 2. The comedic scenes though sometimes not funny at least with Cage, Jay Baruchel regulates it. He fills the boring side of the film. And Jay doesn't need to exert effort, he is really funny by nature. Sorcerer's Apprentice is not Nicholas Cage' best adventure film I've watched since National Treasure films have been phenomenon, but surely is entertaining and worth the admission ticket (3 out 5 stars).

"An Oscar-worthy Thriller" - 'Inception' Movie Review

Christopher Nolan just gave us his another masterpiece after 'The Dark Knight' last 2008. This time it's a breath taking and mind-blowing thriller with great special effects that challenges your imagination or even your dreams. The film centered on a man named Cobb (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) who specializes in extracting ideas from a dream. He does it too well that he makes money out of it working for biggest corporations all over the world. When offered for one last task that would allow him to get back home where his kids are waiting for him, Cobb didn't think twice, without thinking how tough the job would turn out to be. Accompanied by Arthur (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, 500 Days of Summer, G.I. Joe), Ariadne (Ellen Page, Juno, X-Men: The Last Stand), Saito, Eames and Yusuf, Cobb has to free his mind from the dreams he created that keeps on haunting him and focuses on the dream or even dreams that he is in. The job this time is not the usual way of stealing ideas from one person but planting one instead.

The film goes from one dream to another dream to another dream which makes the movie unique compare to similar movies created before (like Matrix). The scoring, though sounds like similar to which was used in 'The Dark Knight' it really plays well that intensifies all the scenes, not to mention the mind-bending visuals which really perfectly visible in Digital Screens. What I really like about the film is that, though its a fiction, it never deviates itself from reality. Like for instance, what Cobb says "You don't remember how it all begun when you are dreaming" which is really true, you don't know how everything begins in a dream. It just started with you in such situation. And in a dream you will feel everything is real. "When you are in dreams, everything is real while you are in it, you will only feel strange when you wake up" as Cobb explains. And lastly, when you are in dreams, subconsciously, your thoughts wander, and it mostly depicts your worries and conscience. In the case of Cobb's dreams, his dead wife, their children and with all the memories haunt him in every dream he created. Not just in this type of genre that the film has to be based from reality, the reason why most movies are not successful in making the film meaningful is that they stuck with their too wide imagination and forgot about their reality.

Also starred by Academy Award Winners Marion Cotilliard and Michael Caine, Christopher Nolan's Inception is really one of the best films created this year, it's original, thought-provoking and the cast performances are really outstanding. Unless there would be greater movies out this year, Inception will surely be one of the nominated films in Oscar Best Picture and performances of DiCaprio and Cotilliard might score an acting nominations too. Inception, is the type of film that lingers with you for a long time even after leaving the cinema. In fact I don't know if I am even over it. I'm thinking of watching the film again though in regular screen this time (5 out of 5 stars).

"A piece of crap" - 'Predators' Movie Review

What would you expect from a remake of this thriller film?Bloody, more violence, and more actions as what it shown on the trailer .Well sorry to disappoint everyone that the movie is not as what it appears to be. If you enjoyed the old film with Arnold Schwarzenegger this time you might just want to skip watching it 'coz it was nothing but a piece of crap. Forgive me, it was too disappointing. It is more dramatic than what expected to be as action-thriller film.

The movie focuses on the story of eight different people who were trapped in a woods after falling from the sky on a parachute. None of them remembered anything. They later found out that they were trapped with unknown creatures in the forest. With no way out, they should stick together as they struggle to fight for their own survival. With the help of one survivor who came before them they must learn to fight and face their predators to live. Starred by Adriene Brody (The Pianist, King Kong) with Alice Braga (Repo Men, Crossing Over) and Laurence Fisburne (The Matrix).

The movie is lack of action and thrill. It started just fine but got worst and worst as it continues especially when the actual predators showed up. Though the acting is not that bad, the story is really dull (1.5 out of 5 stars).

Just watched Inception

Just came home from watching 'Inception'. I really waited for the film since it came out on the 15th. Just got the chance to watch it, had to wait Sunday off. Christopher Nolan (director of the film) really brilliant as the movie as what I expected is really really cool. With great especial effect, great performances, unique and mind-blowing plot, Inception is one of the best films released this year. It's not a surprise if the movie would be nominated for Oscar. Starred by Leonardo Dicaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt (500 Days of Summer, G.I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra), Ellen Page (Juno, X-men: The Last Stand), Marion Cotilliard (Public Enemy, Nine) and Cillian Murphy (Batman Begins, Dark Knight).

Off course I didn't watch the film in a regular cinema, but can't afford the IMAX so I watched it in Digital HD screen in SM Megamall. It was just for Php200 compare to Php160 for a regular streaming. It was really worth it. Next week Sunday or Wednesday (my next rest day) it would be Nicholas Cage's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice." A week after that is M.Night Shyamalan's "The Last Airbender" and Angelina Jolie's "Salt" a week after. Cool!I'm not really into movies am I?

"Not outstanding but better than the first two films" - 'Twilight Saga Eclipse' Movie Review

Let me start with the review by saying that "Eclipse is the best Twilight film so far". With the direction from David Slade (who also directed the vampire film '30 Days of NIght' last 2007) the movie went a bit further from a traditional Twilight dilemma where it suffers from reaching to audience as the movie viewers and not as fans of the book who have read it several times. What I'm saying is, only those who have the read the books who can understand what's going on the film, if you are not a reader then just feel sorry for yourself as everything goes to oblivion and wait for the next film to come up to put the puzzle together. Or wait for twiligh-geek friends to tell you what's really going on which is a bit annoying (for some).

The film didn't pick up from the boring ending of the last film where Edward said "Will you marry me?" (don't know the exact line though). But instead it started decently with a young man missing who eventually became the leader of the new group of vampires, New Born. Meanwhile, Victoria (which starred by another actor for the third time) was still the main villain of the movie as revealed later in the film using the New Born to avenge her lover James (who died in the first film). Of course the film didn't forget about the Edward-Bella-Jacob love triangle. It is all about themm all the time, and this time competition almost became even (although we all know Edward would win in the end).

Acting didn't much improve, especially for Taylor Lautner, no one can blame him anyway,he is really a newbie. But the supporting cast is really superb. Charlie is pretty much convincing as Bella's father, Dakota Fanning as always delivers the best of the character of Jane. Jasper who has more exposure in this film has shown more enthusiastic when it comes to acting, it won't be surprising if he lands on bigger roles soon apart from Twilight series. Anna Kendrick just started to become my favorite, though with little role as Jessica, still managed to deliver a not-forgetful performance when she delivers a speech on a graduation scene.

What I really like about the movie is that there was an improvement in making the audience thrilled as they added extra violence, which is really the main ingredient in vampire-werewolves theme movie.Plus scoring is really better. I can't just spoil the whole movie. It is not really one of best movies released this year but at least it's better compare to its first two films. This might be the beginning of the Twilight series to be critically acclaimed as reviews are getting better. We'll hope and see what they have installed for us in 'Breaking Dawn' next year which will be released in two parts. (2.5 out of 5)

Blackout, Predators, and Basyang

Power in whole Metro Manila and provinces nearby was out yesterday for more than 24 hours because of the typhoon 'Basyang'. It wasn't as strong as 'Ondoy' last year and the strong rain lasted for a night but it did manage to cut the power source of the whole Metro. And unluckily it was my off, so I spent my rest day without internet connection, wasn't able to play my new addiction 'Planst vs. Zombies' (not much into playing games, but this one made me so addicted to it). There was no MRT and LRT so the buses were all standing ovation and not to mention the traffic.

But despite of all these. My day went well as Lecel and I had time together. I just accompanied her to SSS in East Ave, not really a date though but I had fun. I came to know her more. I'm so fascinated by her personalities. She is so simple and I really like her humor. There is no boredom moment when she is around. We went home after eating in Mang Inasal around 11a m since both of us came from night shift and didn't have sleep yet. It was short but worth it. I'm looking for ward to spending time again soon

When I arrived home the power was not back on yet. So I slept for couple of hours went out around 5pm and buy my grocery in Robinson Galleria. I had dinner in KFC and waited til 8 PM for the light to come back up. When my roommate texted my that it was still out I decide to watch the new film 'Predators' and I wasn't much satisfied with the film. I expected too much from it. Should have picked 'Knight and Day' or just stayed at home. But anyway, I arrived home almost 12 midnight and the light was on. Internet was a bit f****ed up so I just played 'Plants vs. Zombies' 'til 8am. I only slept for two hours but it was a very satisfying sleep (don't know why exactly hehe). That's it for now, I'm really hoping for another good day. I got a shift tonight again 'til Saturday and can't wait to see her again.

missing my family

Glad that I was able to talk to my sisters in Zamboanga on the phone. I really miss all of them. Despite being pissed with the internet connection (again) my morning went just so fine when they called me. Although somehow I frustrate them of not working abroad just yet I know they understand, especially Kah Ming. After all, they are the only reason why I am working hard here in this big metro. If there is only a better opportunity to work abroad, why not?so far my job is ok, here, I'm enjoying it and most of all I provide them more than I used to give them when I was in Zamboanga.

While on the phone, our younger sister Queng, who is supposedly leaving for Dubai to work as midwife sadly informed me that she couldn't leave yet due to some health problem and she needs to undergo a therapy. It really pains me hearing her so frustrated. She really wants to help to realize all our dreams for our family with Kah Ming. We have this goal of making our lives easier for kah ming and of course to everyone in the family. We want to get the house renovated 'coz it doesn't look decent anymore, get her a small business and of course help her and Kah Tanz (her husband) sending our nephews and nieces to finish college. With all of these plans, Queng thought she would be able to help us with it, that's why she is really frustrated of not leaving. So for now, she just needs to go on therapy for a few months and at least we can see each other in Malaysia.

Inda Lai, my sister in Malaysia phoned me yesterday about the trip this July 30th. She is excited for me and for Munchkins (from Dunkin Donuts). She also asked for Cheese Bread from our sister in Zamboanga. We were laughing on the phone when she told me she just wants food as 'pasalubong' and nothing else. I really miss my sister. She even joked me about wanting to come to Manila. She hasn't been here yet and she wants to see how big the Metro is. I told her I can always book her and Putri (her daughter) and they are planning to come by November or December. I just can't wait to see them this 30th Inshallah!

Blessed June and More blessings this July

Alhamdulillah (All praises and thanks belong to Allah)! I didn't not just pass all the metrics last June but exceeded all 5 major metrics in it. I've been consistently passing my scorecard but this is the first that I have exceeded it. After getting a very disappointing survey of 'Very Dissatisfied' from a wrong respondent I was still able to pass the NetSat (survey average). God is really Great!.

Meanwhile the rumor about moving to a British account is so far remains as rumor as we just renewed our contract 'til September. It was really a good news, honestly I'm not ready yet to say good bye to at&t u-verse, I'm really enjoying my work and the account. I'm already familiar with the tools and the services and so far not getting sick and bored with it.

I'm looking forward for another great and blessed month this July, Inshallah (In God's Will). Plus, I'm leaving for Malaysia this 30th and coming back on 6th of August (really glad they approved my leave, off course with paid).

Eminem - Recovery

Just downloaded 'Recovery' the latest album of my alltime favorite rapper, Marshall Bruce Mathers III a.k.a. 'Eminem'. Started to like his music with his first popular songs "Slim Shady", "The Way I am", "Stan" and "Cleaning out my Closet". Since then I have become an avid fan. He has 6 albums debuted at number 1 in Billboard Hot 200 (all album went to number one except his first one "The Slim Shady LP" which peaked at No. 2 in 1999.) To date he has 3 number one singles (two of it debuted at No. 1); 'Loose Yourself', 'Crack the Bottle' and his latest single from Recovery album 'Not at Afraid'

His first movie "8 Mile" was a box-office success and won an Oscar for Best Original Song. Also watched him in Adam Sandler's "Funny People" and he is going to appear in cinemas again along side Paul Walker in a horror film to be released sometime this year.

The following are the songs in Eminem's Recovery Album which features artists like Rihanna, Pink, Lil Wayne and others: (wikipedia.org)

Eminem's 'Recovery' Album

1. "Cold Wind Blows"
2. "Talkin' 2 Myself" (featuring Kobe)
3. "On Fire"
4. "Won't Back Down" (featuring Pink)
5. "W.T.P."
6. "Going Through Changes"
7. "Not Afraid"
8. "Seduction"
9. "No Love" (featuring Lil Wayne)
10. "Space Bound"
11. "Cinderella Man"
12. "25 to Life"
13. "So Bad"
14. "Almost Famous"
15. "Love the Way You Lie" (featuring Rihanna)
16. "You're Never Over"
17. "Untitled" (hidden track)

Got a new Globe Tatoo SIM

I'm glad that my connection is back and better. All this time I thought it was really my broadband, and I was ready to buy a new broadband kit of Sun Cellular, luckily I thought of trying a new Globe Tattoo SIM and that was it. All I need was a new SIM pack. How could I forget that I was using the old Globe SIM for internet surfing (Globe Visibility). I got it the first time they launched the broadband kit (last three years ago), so when they did some update on their bandwidth perhaps, I couldn't register to the unlimited internet anymore though regular charges works. Any way, I can't discuss the technicalities of it, I'm just glad that I was able to save 1,000 pesos for the new broadband and I can go online again 24 hours during my off.

My old Globe Broadband Kit, Globe Visibility when it first came out in 2007 which now called Globe Tatoo

So frustrating

Sometimes the things you do are not just enough for some people. And what hurts the most, is that those people are your family. You are doing your best to provide them, to support them, but they always ask for more. They don’t think about the sacrifices that you make, they don’t consider how hard you try. It is so frustrating!

They want me to work abroad to earn more. Who doesn’t want to earn more anyway? It’s not that I don’t want to go out, but I just don’t feel so inspired to go out thinking most of my friends didn’t much fine any luck in working abroad. Some of them are even in debt and their status in life are still the same. It just so easy to say, at least that’s what they think. How I wish they will realize the value of work and that things are not so instant. It really takes time and it requires a lot of patience.

For now, I will ignore them, I know what’s best for me, I would still support them to the best way possible. But they won’t tell me what to do, they can’t force me to do things that I don’t want to do. I still wish that there would be a better opportunity, wherever it is, here or abroad, it doesn’t matter.

New Start...Soon

Just logged out from work and one more shift tonight and off again. The month is almost over and my NetSat (customer survey) is still not passing, though almost making it at 70.56% (passing mark is 71.00%) I still believe that I can make it before this month ends, just need one more passing survey and I'm good. Our team stat looks good too this month.

Coach Luther told us this morning (although not official yet) that the at&t u-verse will only be up to August of this year. That means we would handling different account which I heard is also a technical account but our customers will be British this time. Its kinda sad that we need to start over, start familiarizing different technologies and tools, and ofcourse new mind sets of customers. But I think it would be exciting too and it would be a new opportunity for all of us, though it would be a new start. And what's good about it (according to our coach) is that the incentives are better and that's something we look forward for.

I'm still in the office right now, I don't know If I would have a better connection at home 'coz Globe Broadband is freaking not-just-good lately. By next week I would be checking the benifits from Suncellular and would switch to them most likely no matter what (either pre-paid or post paid).

The Karate Kid Review

When I came to know that 'The Karate Kid' would have a remake and to be produced by Will Smith, I thought it was not really a good idea. Then later I found out that his twelve-year old, Jaden Smith will star, I said 'Oh no, they would be just wasting their time. My judgment was not based from Will Smith producing the movie, but because of his son, who is so young for the role and that the old 'The Karate Kid ' had its time and had lost its attraction from the audience today due to countless number of movies released since then. Honestly, the movie was not even part of my list, I even watched 'A-team' (which opened on the same week) over it. But due to positive responses from friends, user and critics, I decided to watch the movie and tried to see it

for myself on how Jade Smith relive the spirit of the forgotten 'The Karate Kid'.

Dre, starred by Jade Smith (son of a celebrity couple, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith) is a 12-year old from Detroit, who was forced to move to China with his mother which starred by Taraji P. Henson. As Dre started to make friends with the kids in the new place in Beijing, he met a chinese girl practicing playing violin. The two started to get to know each other when they were interrupted by a chinese boy who knows kung fu and later beat up Dre. At school, same chinese boy and his group of kung fu kids always bully him. He got a chance to get even with them by showering them with a pail of filthy water which resulted to chasing him and got beaten up again. Mr. Han (starred by superstar Jackie Chan) rescued Dre and later helped him with his wounds. The next day, Mr. Han and Dre went to the gym (where kung fu kids are practicing) to make peace but instead they were forced to fight. Mr. Han refused to fight but instead made a deal with the Kung Fu Master trainer that Dre would be joining the Kung Fu Tournament. Mr. Han trained Dre and got along very well with each other and made it to the final of the tournament.

Jackie Chan really fits the role as Mr. Han, so far I can't imagine any actor portraying the role. Taraji P. Henson on the other hand is really good (I really like her since 'Benjamin Button') she is really one of the brilliant actresses in Hollywood. And Jaden Smith, WOW!what a good start for a starring role, really like father like son.

I can't say that this is the best Karate Kid film, but there is one thing for sure about this movie, you will really enjoy it, and the thought about Jaden Smith as the new karate kid (although he learns kung fu in the movie), he really did it just fine. What I really like about the movie is that the story was not rushed, it took its time introducing Dre, Mr. Han and the rest of the characters till you start feeling them and understanding them. It showed every detail that left all questions answered. And just like the whole movie was created with perseverance as gambled Jaden Smith for the role, every thing came out just perfectly fine. (4 stars out of 5)

Four more and I'm good

One of the major metrics in my scorecard is failing this month. Its because I got a rating of a 'Very Dissastified' from a customer. But I'm not really worried at all because of it, 'coz the survey went to the wrong person. Apparently, the e-mail of the customer that I spoke with has an e-mail forwarding. And the person got the survey was stupid enough to rate all the buckets 'Very Dissastied' 'coz he doesn't like recieving e-mail from our clients. So stupid that he can't even figure out the e-mail forwarding. It really hurts my survey so bad (and our team stat) that I need to have 6 'Very Satisfied' surveys to pass this month. Thank God (Alhamdulillah), I got two last Friday, so I just need four more to pass. I'm really positive that I can still make it this month. It's still early, I still have over a week (fingers crossed!).

Santolan

Accompanied Rosemary (a friend from Zamboanga) after shift yesterday to look for their staff-house for a training here in Metro. It was tiring 'coz I somehow forgot where Santolan was and took a long route from the Airpot to get there. Should have taken MRT instead from Taft station. Anyway, after leaving McDonald around 10am, took two LRT ride and a very long walk, we found the staff house finally by almost 2 PM.

I arrived home at around 4pm and checked the downloaded movies shortly after taking a bath. Surprisingly, the utorrent downloaded almost all the movies in queue, I thought the Globe got crazy again and dropped the connection (like what its doing right now, wtf!). My best friend utorrent (it's one of my new best friends now hehe) downloaded the well-acclaimed "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire", the romantic comedy of Jennifer Aniston and Gerald Butler, "The Bounty Hunter", John Cusack's "The Hot Tub Time Machine", a book-adaptation "Where the Wild Things Are", Stephen King's "The Sawshank Redemption" and the third season's first episode of "True Blood". It almost downloaded "Moon" but was able to finish downloading it today (I got a prepaid connection, Php50 for 24 hours).

I wasn't able to watch movie yesterday 'coz I was really tired from the trip and was very sleepy. I slept around 5pm and woke up around 2 am, it was a very satisfying sleep. I felt like a new reborn hehe, so I had a movie marathon session again, watched "The Bounty Hunter", "True Blood" and "Precious". For now, time out first from watching, need to update facebook account and of course my blog.

Rose and me while waiting for someone to open the gate of the staff house. Exhausted from a long walk under the heat of the sun

Rose's first LRT experience hehe..Stolen pic!

I wonder where all the sweats go?

A Fun Roller Coaster Ride (Movie Review : A - Team)

As soon as I found out that Jessica Biel is starring on A-Team, I couldn't wait to watch the movie and hoped for a simultaneous release here in our country. After a few months of waiting, the movie didn't have a simul-premiere here in the Philippines, it was shown one day ahead the world premiere, but I was able to watch the movie on its third day. I didn't have any idea about ' the A-Team' before which later I found out was a successful tv-series back in 1983 to 1986, so the movie seems to have a strong reputation, no wonder the production cost is over $100 million and considered as one of the anticipated movies of 2010.

The movie started in Mexico with Liam Neeson as Hannibal, the leader of the A-team, was held as a captive of two Mexicans but escaped when he was left for two guard-dogs to be fed on. Somewhere else in Mexico, Face (Bradley Cooper) was also held as captive after seducing General Tuco's wife. Hannibal came to rescue Face with B.A. (Rampage Jackson), whom Hannibal met along the way. The three tried to escape General's people and headed to the hospital to rescue the funny and crazy-like pilot Murdock (Sharlto Copley). The four went on a chopper and General's people tried to stop them which lead to a thrilling aerial dogfight. The team later on involved in a dollar plate framed-up and killing General Morrison. They were sent to separate prisons for six months.

The movie went on with three other characters pursuing the team. Jessica Biel as Captain Sosa who is an ex-lover of Face, and completely believes that the team took the plates and killed General Morrison. Patrick Wilson as Lynch who framed the team and has a personal interest on the plates. Brian Bloom as Pike who later on revealed worked with General Morrison and also has interest in the plates.

The strength of this film is the powerful cast. Acting is just fair, thanks to Liam Neeson, Patrick Wilson, Brian Bloom, and Shorlito Copley. Jessica Biel and Brad Cooper had some few struggles but nevertheless they acted beautifully. Let's just forgive Rampage, acting was new to him though somehow he performed enough. The film itself suffers from focusing on the huge explosives and the thrill and somehow left small factors slid through hoping audience won't notice it. But it was a fun roller coaster ride packed with actions and laughter. (3.5 out of 5 stars)

She is Out my league

"In order for other people to think that you are good for them, you have to believe that you are good for yourself"

This movie reminds me of Jason Segel's "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" film where a guy who is still in love with his ex-girlfriend after ditching him for another guy. The guy finds a hot girl and the ex is jealous now the ex wants him back. Pretty much same plot, same doze of laugh perhaps. But "She is out of my league" has its own flow of story, group of funny different characters, that separates it from 'Sarah' and that would keep you 'til the end of the movie.

Jay Baruchel (Knocked Up, How to Train your Dragon) starred as Kirk, not a hot-guy type who was ditched by his ex who is still living with his non-supportive family (except for his mom) along with her new boyfriend. At work, Kirk has a group of different best friends; a Mr. nice guy who is fat and married, a loud and rude rock star and a hot-good looking guy. When Kirk met a hot and perfect woman named Molly (starred by Alice Eve) and started going out together his best friends and his family couldn't almost believe which led to different speculations why Molly is going out with Kirk. As the movie went on, the two separated but not because they don't love each other but because of their differences. Kirk later found out that Molly even as perfect as she looks like has a defect and the only reason she dated him because Kirk is safe and won't hurt her. But everything went out fine with Kirk and she fell in love with him.

Lessosn learned that when you love someone, you love her for what she is and what she is not. Stop comparing yourself to someone you think is better than you, the fact that everyone is not the same, comparing won't help, 'coz no matter how you compare there will always be differences. And most of all in order for other people to think that you are good for them, you have to believe that you are good for yourself

movies, movies, download, download

Haven't done anything today but to watch movie while downloading a lot of movies using utorrent. Seems like I have downloaded all the new dvd rip films available online, so I'm downloading old films that I have already watched but want to watch it again and keep it as collection. My goal is to fill my 250 Gb external hard drive with all the movies. Then buy a new one once its full hehe..Currently, I'm downloading Hot Tub Time Machine, Superman Returns, De Javu, Jurrasic Part 3, Shrek 3, Hide and Seek, Defiance, and Happy Feet.

A lot of movie torrent files are still in que, but I can download them next rest day, and that is on Sunday. So time off from downloading tonight. Wishing for more movies to come lolz..Have a great day to everyone!

Hot Attic

It's almost 3 PM and I'm still awake, need to get some sleep before going to work later tonight. Couldn't sleep yet 'coz its too darn hot in my room (or should I say OUR ROOM with my room mates). I really wanna move to a place of my own that is not this hot. Although there are available rooms here with AC but its too crowded, the least four persons in the room, just like where I am now, so it doesn't make any difference if I transfer and the AC is not on for 24 hours. anyway. Although its not too hot lately 'coz its already rainy season, it is still hot during noon time, and wanna know why?'Coz our room is in the attic of a four-story townhouse unit and we are only using one electric fan, so how's that?...But I couldn't just leave this place for some important reasons. One, the Globe Broadband for my internet connection is better here. Two, electricity and water supply (with mineral water) are unlimited. Three, closer to a mall where I can watch movies and buy my groceries. Closer to a train station and to EDSA, and closer to place where I work. And the price is just fine. Pretty much all the good reasons huh? Except that its too hot during daytime.

Anyway, I don't think I should be thinking of this now. And besides I don't have enough money to look for a better place, unless I won't be sending money home to my sisters. Patience, patience, patience. And it is a virtue. And speaking of being hot, I just heard Mr. thunder, looks like he heard me pleading for rain hehehe. So I think I should be sleeping now, 'til next time.

PISSED OFF

Sometimes you couldn't really help but to get pissed with someone. I woke up this afternoon and went down to the dining room/living room to watch "How I met your mother" series. I was supposed to laugh and have fun atleast before getting ready to work later. But there was this one "boy" (helper) of the townhouse who completely ruined everything. He made some juice which I didn't mind at all, he took some ice cubes from the fridge and all that but when he took some cold water from dispenser, I noticed that he was using my Nestea Tumbler. So I asked him its mine which I knew was really mine, 'coz I'm the only tenant who has one. He just told me "sa'yo pala to kuya, akala ko sa ibang tenant, ibalik ko lng mamaya". "F***!" I said to myself, common sense, its a personal tumbler, you don't suppose to share it. I'm not being greedy or something, I can always share but not the tumbler, and I don't drink from it, I'm using it to make the juice and pour it to a glass. The worst is I didn't see him getting a glass, he must have drunk from it "what the f***". I was really pissed off, though I didn't tell him anything, it was shown on my face that I was uncomfortable (that is if he noticed it).I turned off the tv and went back to my room and "wtf, i'm so pissed off". I was supposed to go out and buy something but I don't want to see their faces. I'm trying to be nice and I know I am, but this one is something intolerable.

One thing I really hate about these helpers (is not that i hate them personally) is on the living room, they spent most of their time watching tv, using the electric fan, you couldn't watch tv anymore even if you want to. And the living room smells already.Thinking you can only watch tv on the living room up to 9pm 'coz that's where they sleep at the same time. I really like to stay in this townhouse 'coz aside from its clean and safe, its closer to my work but these people really made me uncomfortable. I know its just a tumbler, but respect is very important to me.

Time Off

Just arrived home from a grocery store and got myself some apples and oranges. One thing I like rest days is I got a time off from eating rice too. I'm not dieting, it's because I'm just lazy to go out and buy rice and besides I feel like I'm getting huge everyday. My only exercise is a hundred-meter walk to office everyday, without it maybe I'm a lot bigger now. I'm thinking of working out, we got a small gym in the office but none of my colleagues goes there, so it's kinda boring.

Aside from the fruits I also bought a Dove soap, hair gel, Nova snacks and some biscuits. I wasn't able to buy the three-piece sachets of Vaseline shampoo I got 'coz according to the cashier lady it has to be atleast 6 pieces. How would I know? There was no sign or anything that it has to be 6. It was really crazy, but I didn't argue. Thank God I still have one sachet left (I lost two bottles of shampoo already and started buying sachets since), I would just pass by Mega Mall tomorrow after work.

Spent most of my day watching movies and my favorite series "How I met your mother", updating Facebook, checking mails while downloading a lot of movies. I even spent time with my computer more than sleeping and eating. I watched Planet 51, Valhalla Rising, Extract, The Men Who Stare at the Goat and started with I Love You Philip Morris but didn't finish it yet. I'm thinking of finishing it tonight and some other films that I download. I don't know which one to watch first, there are too many of them now hehe..Oh I just love rest days, especially if you just came from work. I'll be back to work tomorrow night and after that it's off again. So cool!

Month of May is over. It was another good month for me and for our team. The team finished the month with all green in scorecard. Although we ended up number three (out of 7 teams) we were the only team who passed all the metrics in scorecard. I'm glad that my NetSat (customer satisfacation survey) went up from last April's 66.67% to 83.3% last month. Although I came short in two metrics, I still passed the overall ratings. Thank's to my two coaches (Luther and Candy) last month and to our QA who continously giving me feedback.And I'm really hoping that I'll be able to sustain it. I really want to be promoted to a higher position and if that time comes I hope I'm more than qualified and really
deserves the position I didn't really think that I would be able keep this type of work at first, neither I thought of surviving the life in Manla. I was planning to apply for work abroad supposedly. But God is really great and has better plans for me. He wanted me to stay and somehow helped me a lot and my family. My communication skills is better now (I must say), and this is what I really wanted eversince. I'm still gonna work abroad. But not for now, the perfect opportunity will just come,and by that time, I'll be more ready to accept it. For now, I'm enjoying my work and looking better month this June.

Spotlight - Woody Harrelson

Just revived my movie blog today. I realized that I couldn't just let go of doing this. Especially now that I learned that blogging is one way of releasing stress. Not just blogging though, anything that you do outside work, where pressure, deadlines, scorecards are totally none of your concern. So here I am, filling up this site with movie contents. It doesn't matter if someone reads this or none, although it's a plus point if someone does hehe..

Anyway, my first article for this week would be a regular section on this site. I called it "Spotlight". It really sounds mediocre, but I don't think there are other words to use as this word relates to light of the camera focusing on something or someone in which as the title implies, this section would talk about an actor, director or perhaps writer or producer that has been contributing to movie industries. And my first ever Spotlight Victim is Woody Harrelson. Why him?'Coz I just watched his latest movie "Defendor".

Mr. Woody Harrelson is the actor who has the most movies that I've watched this past 365 days. And the irony of it, I just came to know him in Roland Emmerich's "2012" movie. Since then, I watched most of his latest films, though just got them in videos. And I'm telling you this guy is really versatile. He can be a crazy jackass or a very serious and scary person. No wonder he got 2 Oscar nominations both for leading and supporting roles.

The following are the movies of Woody Harrelson that I've watched this past 365 days:

1. 2012 - Who would forget Charlie Frost in this box-office disaster film. He played the radio announcer who predicted the end of the world. Acted alongside John Cusack and Amanda Peet, this is his highest grossing film with a world wide gross of $769.7.

2. Zombieland - played as Tallahassee, the zombie slayer alongside Jessie Eissenberg, Emma Stone, and Abigail Breslin. This movie opened at number 1 in North America with $24,733,155. The highest opening for Mr. Harrelson as the lead actor.

3. Management - this movie was released in late 2008 but got the chance to watch it early this year. He played the husband of Jennifer Aniston in the film and a pain-in-the-ass of Steve Zahn who is crazily in love with Jennifer.

4. Seven Pounds - I watched this film last 2 years ago. But I didn't know that he was in that film, 'coz I didn't know him yet 'til I have watched again the film in HBO. He was the blind man whom Will Smith shouted at over the phone but eventually donated his eyes to when he knew that he was dying.

5. The Messenger - Played the role of elite Captain Tony Stone whose task was to train the messenger (played by Ben Foster) in informing the departed families of soldiers who died during the war. His role in this film earned his 2nd Oscar nomination as Best Actor in Supporting role.

6. Defendor - his latest movie, that really made him more as one of the best actors in Hollywood. He played the title role as a hero-wannabe in this comedic film. Played alongside Kat Dennings.

Aside from the films above, you can also see Mr. Harrelson in these known films: Semi-Pro, No Country for Old Man, North Country and Anger Management. And he has several movies in production including the sequel foe Zombieland, movies with Josh Hartnet and Demi Moore to be out late this year and an animated film with Owen and Luke Wilson called "Turkey" next year.

A Book and a Shirt

I just got myself a new shirt and a book.I didn't really plan to buy some new stuff I just decided to go out awhile back supposed to eat chowfan and halo-halo from Chowking in Robinson Pioneer Mall. But before eating, I noticed that National Bookstore was on sale. Books are as low as Php 99.00, so I passed by and saw a book that really captured my interest. Its from John Robert Marlow called "Nano". Its a suspense/thriller book with ICT theme which reminds me of Michael Crichton books. I also saw the latest book of Michael Crichton called "Next", the last book he wrote before he died. But its still expensive, need to save for it. I also want to buy the books of Paulo Coelho. Looks like I really need to save a lot for books next time.

After eating in Chowking, I walked around the mall and found myself entering to a department store where shirts were on sale. I saw again the Dickies shirt that I really wanted. I couldn't believe that the cool black shirt that I fitted last 2 weeks was still there, and it was still on sale, just for 300 bucks. It was really meant for me, so I decided to fit it again and it really feels comfortable. After a few seconds of thinking of my budget this month, I decided to get it and I'm so happy that I did. It's my first Dickies shirt by the way and I'm so excited to wear it next week to work.