Winners of the SEAIR & Microtel Boracay Bloggers' Tour!

Out of 63 entries, these are the 8 lucky winners of the SEAIR & Microtel Boracay Bloggers' Tour!

I made it!!!!


SEAIR / Microtel Choices

57. Edcel Suyo http://soloflighted.com/2010/08/20/ive-been-to-different-places-but-ive-never-been-to-bora/

48. Darwin Miranda Cayetano http://damicaye.blogspot.com/2010/08/boracay-adventour.html

49. Micaela Rodriguez http://micamyx.com/2010/08/18/the-seair-and-microtel-boracay-dream/

9. Karlo Jose Pineda http://karlopinedajournals.wordpress.com/2010/07/27/of-boracay-and-bitterness/


Most Likes

44. Brenna Bustamante http://queenbiyachessa.com/why-boracay/ - 1059 likes

8. Gracee Bongolan http://graceelicious.tumblr.com/post/864324899/boracay-escapade - 738 likes

38. Medalla Vanvan http://vancee.multiply.com/journal/item/2/2 - 676 likes

Bloggers' Choice

45. ThePinay Solobackpacker http://thepinaysolobackpacker.com/2010/08/16/living-out-a-childhood-dream-my-2-hour-boracay-experience/#more-3629


Congratulations to the winners! Please expect our administrator to contact you within the next few days. We would also like to remind the winners that the promo is for bloggers. So you will need to have active blogs to be able to participate in the tour. Thanks and see you in September!

To those who did not make it, thank you for joining and watch out for our next contest!

Source : SEAIR Fan Page

Bloggers Event at Robinsons BF Parañaque

Robinsons Supermarket is the place where Bloggers meet! With its free wi-fi facility, internet enthusiasts could really enjoy dining on their favorite comfort foods while surfing their favorite sites, updating their Facebook, Tweeter and or Tumbler, chatting with family or friends and of course… Blogging!

So why not blog about the place to be in the community… Robinsons Supermarket BF Parañaque and enjoy the exclusive special offers from our anchor stores, Handyman, Robinsons Appliances and Robinsons Supermarket as well as from all our Food and Non-food tenants. On September 11, 2010 at the second level or Robinsons Supermarket BF Parañaque, 11am to 3pm.

OBJECTIVE:

We would like to create awareness within our community not only about the various brands, products, food and services they can find at Robinsons Supermarket BF Parañaque but as well as the amenities they can enjoy by just hanging out in our mall. With its unique structure, at the heart of Barangay BF, we would like everyone to know that Robinsons Supermarket BF Parañaque is truly the best place in BF to just chill, dine and shop.

WHO CAN JOIN:

o This event is open to all Bloggers

o Target market/ readers: Moms and/or Dads who are looking for convenience in terms of shopping and dining; Teens/ Yuppies who are looking for a place to hang out especially on weekends

o Preferably living within the area (Parañaque, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa)


How to join:

· Pre-registration will be done online :

o just email: eilleen.navarro@robinsonsretail.com.ph or add us up on Facebook (robinsonsbf@ymail.com) and PM us your details: Name, Age, email address and blog site

o Wait for acknowledgement of registration via email.

· Each participant will be given a “Passport” or a coupon booklet where it has all the exclusive discounts and/or freebies they can avail from different stores on the day of the event.

Also, attached below is the directional map going to our mall.

Dawn of the Space Age: The Philippine Premiere

During my school days, I was so fascinated with astronomy. In fact I dreamt of becoming an astronaut. Together with my grade school friends we were always talking of our objectives why we would like to be a space explorer. My interest about astronomy increased more when we studied more about space exploration and when I watched a planetarium show during our educational trip in Manila Planetarium way back in high school. But unfortunately that dream was just a dream. When I grew up I learned that it is not easy to become one, considering our financial capability and I find taking such related course is not practical. There is no money in astronomy in our country.

But after graduation, who would have thought that I will work as a planetarium operator in Science Discovery Center,the premier science center in the Philippines. And guess what I am now on my 3rd year exploring the universe through different planetarium shows.


*This photo is from byahilo.com

Tomorrow, Sept. 1, the Digistar Planetarium in Science Discovery Center is proud to present the public launching of one of the best and interesting planetarium show ever, the "Dawn of the Space Age".


If you think you've already learned everything about space exploration, I bet you, not everything! The show will reveal the facts that is not written in the books. Some of the hair-raising moments astronauts experienced in the space. What happened to Yuri Gagarin during his journey? Who is Alexei Leonov? What happened to him during his space walk? Who won the race to space? Discover Apollo 11. These and more when you watch Dawn of the Space Age.

Show Schedule:
Dawn of the Space Age
12:40 3:20 6:00 8:00

Other shows:
Seven Wonders
11:20 2:00 4:40 6:40 (9:20 if the center is open until 11PM)

Cosmic Collisions
12:00 2:40 5:20 7:20 (10:00 if the center is open until 12MN)

Stars of the Pharaohs
1:20 4:40 8:40

* Last ticket selling is 8:40 PM.

The NIDO FORTIFIED Science Discovery Center is located at the South Side of the Mall of Asia’s Entertainment Building, and is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Photos courtesy of
smsciencediscovery.com
byahilo.com

Hangtime on Sports Unlimited (Spot My Pic)

How would you feel if you see yourself in national television?

Well, for me it brings so much smile and fun. Just last August 14, I saw my picture featured on Sports Unlimited even in just a split of second(lol). I tried to upload some of our photos (Mt. Gulugod-baboy Adventure) in their Facebook Fan Page and amongst so many fan photos my crazy pic was chosen to be included in the video. The theme that time is "Hangtime".

Well watch this video and spot my pic..

I Believe

"I don't bring the level of my Faith down to the level of my Experience..."




“Please visit http://apps.facebook.com/ibelieve-badge/ to make your own Levi’s I Believe badge.

Want to grab a LEVI's Gift Certificate? Check out projectvanity.com by Liz

3 Years of Science Journey

Today marks my 3rd year journey as a Planetarium Control Operator in the premiere science center in the country. I'm very much happy with the prestige it has to bring.

DARWIN CAYETANO
"The Pioneer and the Longest in Service "DIGISTAR" Planetarium Operator in the Philippines"

Amazing huh!?
But it is not just the prestige. It is all about the memories I had in the past three years that made my journey uncomparable. And the people I have meet along the way that added a spice and happiness to that journey makes this chapter of my life even more sweet. They are people I have been hanging out with since God-knows-when.

Thank you Science Discovery Center for this great science journey
Thank you friends and colleagues for taking part in this..
Thank you guests, students, teachers for visiting and spending a lil time to learn and enjoy...

SCIENCE DISCOVERY CENTER
www.sciencediscovery.ph

Boracay AdvenTour

Boracay, it's everybody's favorite to spend vacation and escape from the hassles of city life. The perfect haven to relax and try to work out those muscles with all of its adrenaline-rushing water sports and activities. Indeed, Boracay is one of the world's best known paradise for all beach goers, tourists and even bummers all over the world.

Well let me tell you my Boracay experience. It was one of those escapades that will surely retain in my memory. My friend booked our flight with SEAIR, and yes, they offered one of the fastest flights and inexpensive Boracay airfare. Very convenient for a person like me. It was my first time to ride a plane, so I was one of those nervous but excited being. I couldn't pay attention to the safety measures that the attendant was saying. I was in paranoia that some horrible plane crash and accidents kept playing in my mind. So many "what if's?". I cant explain how I feel while on the plane especially during the take off and landing. But seeing the view down there was an experience and sight to behold. When the plane's engine stopped, I felt relieved. And when we arrived at Caticlan, I was very excited for I know that we were minutes away from the paradise. We took a short tricycle ride to the pier and a boat ride to the White Beach. And yes, I cant hide my feelings that time. It was incomparable. My smile almost reached my ears. Well, I was a first-timer, that's why..:)

We checked in at *Microtel Inn and Suites. Microtel Boracay is a distinctive resort hotel of the Microtel Inn and Suites in the Philippines. Combining hotel comfort and exotic island flair, Microtel Boracay is a serene seaside retreat that has taken the same practical approach of the Microtel Inn and Suites chain of hotels. The result is an affordable, international class hotel from which to explore with convenience and comfort the exciting tropical island of Boracay, Philippines. Accomodation was great. The hotel staffs were very hospitable and helpful (two of those values that we Filipinos are known for). They never fail to smile and greet to every guests that passes by. I can say that we got what we paid for. Another thing that makes Microtel an ideal place to check in is because of its location. Lies along the Diniwid Beach that is away from the noise of pop music and hubbub that has overtaken the island. It is perfect for those who want a more relaxing and quiet stay and is a few minutes walk to all the "going-ons" at the heart of the white beach.

The first thing we did was of course, eat and fill those mouth with sumptuous foods. Each menus surprised our eyes and filled our tongue with such "sobrang sarap" foods. It made us forget our diet. After a little rest, we headed our way to the shore. It was really amazing. I have never been to a beach with such kind of beauty. My feet felt the fine powdery white sand and the water is so steady and clear. My friends and I played beach volleyball under the sun. It was hot and fun. The day experience was great. But the night life was so crazy and much fun. We went bar hopping and take a shot or two then grooved with different people to the beat and rhythms of the cool music.

Day 2. Our Adventure day. We tried different activities and water sports. We started with horseback riding and nature tripping at Tibiao Whitewater River. I was so fascinated of its classic features of a tropical whitewater river, with rich vegetation hemming the banks, views of rice terraces, spectacular falls and clear water. After that we tried glass bottom boat and banana boat ride where we were all thrown away and stumbled into the water. It was very remarkable and fun. Unfortunately we were not able to try kite boarding and windsurfing as well as snorkeling. Maybe next time, if there is.:)

And at the end of the day, we unwind with relaxing massage offered by skilled masseurs by the beach while watching the panoramic view of paraws sailing in pristine water along the sunset. Oh what a great life!

On the next day, when I woke up. Yes! the next day was a BIG disappointment. I woke up and everything was just a DREAM. Yes! t'was a dream. Well, anyone can dream. I can dream. It is the reason why you haven't seen any photos of my adventure.:)

That is why I am very much thankful to Seair and Microtel Inn and Suites because that dream may come into reality when they launch the an all-expense paid trip to Boracay for 8 lucky bloggers. Somehow, I now have the chance to fulfill that fantasy. So I blog my way to Boracay.

To my fellows in the blogosphere, Press that keyboard and blog your way to BORACAY now...

Need more info for your "Ticket to Boracay?"Click me.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

To let them know about your blog entry, post it as a link in the Seair Facebook Fan Page. It has to be posted from 12:00 a.m. of July 26, 2010 to 11:59 p.m. of August 20, 2010. Only one entry per blog will count. Once it is acknowledged by the administrator, your entry is counted.


SEAIR: Offering World-Class Service During Flights to the Philippines

Renowned for its "paradise-to-paradise" destinations, SEAIR has now flown almost 3 million passengers to 17 local tourist destinations. It offers the fastest flights to Boracay as well as flights to beautiful destinations like Batanes and Tablas, Romblon. SEAIR is paving the way for the development of tourism by pioneering new and exciting destinations.

As the airline with the longest history of uninterrupted flights to Boracay, SEAIR is raising the bar by offering complimentary VIP transfers between Caticlan Airport and Boracay island. It is blazing new trails by offering daily flights to Basco, Batanes, the best new paradise destination in the Philippines.

SEAIR, the Philippines' premier leisure airline, is known for its world-class service and dedication to its passengers, even being cited in the New York Times. It is the choice of the Jet Set Crowd, of socialites and glitterati, and of movers and shakers in the business world. So for your next flight within the country, be sure to check out SEAIR airlines Philippines -- the fastest way to experience the beauty of the islands.

For affordable airline tickets to the Philippines, or if you want to experience flying with one of the best leisure airlines in the Philippines, call SEAIR reservations at 8490100. You can also book online for your convenience.

Follow them on Facebook on their Official Fanpage.


The Microtel Inn and Suites Hotel in Boracay offers the following facilities and services:

* Swimming pool
* Restaurant
* Meeting room
* Non-smoking rooms
* Handicapped accessible room
* Wireless internet access in the lobby
* Internet kiosk
* 24-hour vending area
* Free unlimited coffee at the lobby
* Safety deposit box available at the Front Desk
* Photocopy, fax and mailing services


Microtel Boracay offers quality accommodations and hotel facilities at reasonable prices that vacationers can truly enjoy in Boracay Island.

Enjoy!!!

P.S. don't forget to check their page..;)

http://flyseair.com/
http://www.facebook.com/flyseair
http://www.microtelphilippines.com/

*Informations and photos used in this blog is own by and can be seen at Seair and Microtel Inn and Suites website.

What do you love about the rainy season?

Playing under the rain with my playmates when I was a kid is what I miss the most during rainy season. It shows every kid's carefreeness,being free-spirited and uncomparable joy. It brings our innocence and memorable childhood happiness, something that will never ever happen the same way again at my age.:)

Thanks alifeinstyle for making me relive those moments again..

*Share your stories now and win 1K worth of GC.
For more info log on to alifeinstyle.blogspot.com

YugaTech Contest: Show me your PC, win 1TB!

Good workstation helps us to do our job easier and faster. Well check my place.



When the lights are ON...



and when it's OFF and the show is on-going...





Perhaps this is the coolest workstation I have ever been to; the coolest digital theater in the country.



Take a photo of your laptop, desktop or your workstation and share it with YugaTech by uploading it online and win...

1 Terabyte Western Digital Caviar Black SATA 3 (6 Gb/s)


For more info please Click this link YugaTech

Plus DO NOT FORGET to Follow on Facebook Western Digital Philippines



Here are some other photos of my workstation: The coolest digital theater in the country..

FREE Trip to Boracay

Many of us for sure love or dreaming to go to Boracay, lalo na ako. Sino bang hindi!? Mas lalo na kung LIBRE. If you are interested why don't join this...

Win a Free Boracay Vacation Package by WOW Philippines Travel Agency

WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc. is celebrating it's 5th year in business during July of 2010, and we would like you to have a chance to celebrate with us, so we have decided to give-away a FREE Boracay Package complete with 3 Star accommodations at the luxurious Artista Boracay Resort on Boracay Island. The lucky winner will win the following Boracay vacation package.



Vacation Package Inclusions:
- 5 Days / 4 Nights Luxury 3 Star Accommodations at the Artista Boracay Resort
- Flights to Boracay from Manila to Caticlan Airport on Philippine Airlines
- Island Transfers - Door-to-Door from Manila to the resort and back to Manila Domestic Airport
- Three (3) Meals each day, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Boracay Activities - Horseback Riding, Island Hopping, Glass Bottom Boat

Read More Information: http://www.boracay-packages.com

Drawing Date Will Be On SEPTEMBER 5 of 2010

CONTEST RULES & REGULATIONS

Special Note To All Entries: No international flights will be provided, all entries from countries other than the Philippines must provide there own international flights, into and exiting the Philippines if they are proven to be the winning entry.


1. Each person entering the drawing for a free Boracay vacation package must be at least 21 years of age or older.
2. Only (1) one entry per household will be accepted, additional entries from the same household will be voided.
3. Winning entry must provide valid picture identification, valid phone number, email address, and mailing address, entries not providing this information, in part or whole will have there entry voided.
4. The winning entry also agrees to have there PHOTOS and VIDEO of there winning Boracay Vacation Package posted in our websites, and YouTube.
5. Each entry must provide a CLICKABLE (HOT LINK) for (http://www.boracay-packages.com) to their personal or social networking website (Friendster, Facebook account etc.). To provide the link in your website, copy and paste the text below.

5. COPY & PASTE the Information inside the box below, to your social networking website.
############################################################################
Win a Free Boracay Vacation Package by WOW Philippines Travel Agency

WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc. is celebrating it's 5th year in business during July of 2010, and we would like you to have a chance to celebrate with us, so we have decided to give-away a FREE Boracay Package complete with 3 Star accommodations at the luxurious Artista Boracay Resort on Boracay Island. The lucky winner will win the following Boracay vacation package.

Vacation Package Inclusions:
- 5 Days / 4 Nights Luxury 3 Star Accommodations at the Artista Boracay Resort
- Flights to Boracay from Manila to Caticlan Airport on Philippine Airlines
- Island Transfers - Door-to-Door from Manila to the resort and back to Manila Domestic Airport
- Three (3) Meals each day, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Boracay Activities - Horseback Riding, Island Hopping, Glass Bottom Boat

Read More Information: http://www.boracay-packages.com

##########################################################################

- For Friendster User, you can BLOG IT;
- For Facebook User, you can add it to your LINKS SECTION;
- or BLOG it from your Personal Website.



6. Each reciprocal link will be verified upon submittal, any entry with an unverified return link to our website will voided, and deleted.

Note: Reciprocal link refers to a page on your BLOG, WEBSITE or SOCIAL NETWORKING WEBPAGE where we can view our link (clickable back to our website).

EXAMPLE - ( http://www.examplewebsite.com/free-boracay-package.html ) on your social networking webpage.

7. Each entry will be verified by either EMAIL, PHONE, TEXT, or MAILING ADDRESS, once the entry link is verified, the entrant will be sent an email confirming there entry into the contest.

TO COMPLETE THE REGISTRATION Please log on to http://www.boracay-packages.com

Artista Boracay Beach Resort 3 Star Accommodations

The Artista Boracay is located on Boracay Diniwid beach. Here you will find exciting activities, shopping areas, highly favored restaurants and the best beachfront on Boracay Island. WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc. choose the Artista Boracay resort in Boracay not only for its prime location, but also for there excellent service, great food and superb rooms that overlook the swimming pool. We have no doubt that you will thoroughly enjoy your stay at Artista Boracay Beach Resort.

Flights to Boracay Island via Caticlan Airport

Boracay Flights will be provided by Philippines Airlines, leaving Manila Domestic Airport and flying directly to Caticlan Airport on Panay Island. Once you arrive at the Caticlan airport you will be taken by currier to the jetty port where you will board a banca boat for a 15 to 20 minute ride to the jetty port on Boracay Island located at Cagban beach.

Inter-Island Land & Sea Transfers by Southwest

All land and sea transfers to and from Boracay, Caticlan and Manila will be provided for by WOW Philippines Travel Agency, Inc.

3) Three Meals Daily for (5) Five Days

All meals will be provided for, three set meals, with soft drinks only will be provided for each day, there will be a set buffet breakfast, set lunch and a set dinner buffet, all meals will be received at the Artista Boracay Restaurant, at the beachfront.

Boracay Activities (Horseback Riding, Island Hopping, Glass Bottom Boat)

Included in your Free Boracay Package will be three activities, starting on your second day your first activity will be a 1 hour horseback riding event, your third day will consist of Island hopping to other near by Islands, this also includes snorkeling and and your forth day will include a ride on the Glass bottom boat including snacks and soft drinks.

How to Travel Safe and Light? (Our Experience)

Nature tripping is one of the best way to relax and escape from the tiring and hassles of city life. That's the reason why whenever my friends and I find some time, we definitely try to go for some adventure outside the metro. And of course, we always prioritize our safety and convenience.





TRIPOD at the shoreline of Anilao, Mabini, Batangas


At the peak of Mt. Gulugod-baboy, Batangas


GO Leslie!

Speaking of safety and convenience, backpack is one of those that provides these during your trip for obviously, this is where all your stuffs home. It is necessary for all the travelers to choose the best or the appropriate backpack to be used. I was reading some travel blogs last time and I found out that Pacsafe provides slashproof and and other anti-theft security features. VentureSafe 20L Adventure Daypack catches my attention which is perfect for our out-of-town trip this month in the becoming popular destination in Zambales, Anawangin Cove.


Check out Pacsafe’s superior features:

* eXomesh® Slashguard in front, side and bottom panels
* Slashproof adjustable shoulder straps
* Snatchproof shoulder strap allows the bag to anchor to a secure fixture
* Tamperproof zippers
* Zippered main compartment and front pocket
* Side mesh fabric water bottle pockets
* Padded adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap
* Padded air mesh back support
* Side compression straps


Another Bag that hits my interest is the Slingsafe 200 Anti-Theft Sling Purse which is a versatile shoulder bag that is very appropriate for a short day trips that can accomodate all your important stuffs. Aside from its security features, it has a headphone port. Its perfect because aside from sight-seeing, I love listening to my playlist during the travel.


Slingsafe 200 Anti-Theft Sling Purse is a versatile and lightweight shoulder bag with 4 anti-theft features. Great for short day trips without weighing you down with excess gear. What makes it different? It has slashguard in front panel and Slashproof adjustable shoulder strap. Snatchproof shoulder strap allows the bag to anchor to a secure fixture – Tamperproof concealed safety hook secures front flap, main compartment and zippers – Main zippered compartment – Internal snug-fitting mobile phone / PDA / digital camera / mp3 player pocket – Internal back wall zippered pocket – Front zippered pocket – Rear slip pocket – Headphone port

For all the beginners, here are some of the other useful tips that might help you guys whenever you go out-of-town. These are all based from our experiences, so I guaranteed you, this would be a great help.

BEFORE THE TRIP:

Create a checklist of the things that you will need. Its hard to get one if you left something you will need the most during the trip.

Know how long the trip is for you to know how much money you will be needing and how many pairs of clothes you will be using.

Try to minimize the things that you will be bringing. Just put in your bags the most important and the most useful ones only. Try to avoid bringing so much clothes and accessories. Have a pouch bag for your toiletries so that it will not scatter in your bag.

Instead of folding your clothes, it is better to roll it before putting it in your bags. Rolling the clothes saves space.

Dont forget to bring first aid kit and other medicines.

If you think you are going to spend a night in an unfamiliar place, dont forget to bring flashlight and insect repellants. If possible, dont forget to bring jacket/jogging pants/socks to protect yourself from cold weather and insect bites.

You can also bring some plastic bags where you can put your stuffs just in case the heavy rain pours. Plastic bags can also be used to place all your trash to maintain the cleanliness of the place.

Become knowledgeable of the place. There are hundreds of blogs and experiences of some people in the internet that you can read.

Let your family or guardians know where you are going.

Bring an ID everywhere and anywhere you go. And if any, dont forget to bring your Health Card just in case of emergency.

Be updated with the weather forecast. Its important to take a weather check before going anywhere.

Its OK to be excited, but have atleast enough sleep/rest a night before your trip.

WATER FUN/BEACH ADVENTURE:

Wear on the proper attire when swimming. Dont forget to apply waterproof sunscreen atleast 20 mins before you swim.

First Time - Feet First Rule. Dont just take the plunge to avoid any accident. Dont dive into unfamiliar waters. You'll never know how deep or shallow the water is.

Never swim alone. As much as possible, swim in a group. So that there is someone to help you if you get into difficulty. Remember that "even good swimmers drown."

Make sure you always have enough energy to swim back shore.

Beware of fog. Its easy to lose sight of the shore and get lost in the dense fog.

If a lightning storm is starting, DONT SWIM. Its an electrifying experience you want to avoid. Stop swimming at the first indication of a bad weather.

Be careful of being entangled in seaweeds when swimming. Try not to kick when in seaweeds as it tends to wrap around your legs.

If its your first time in the place, do not swim faraway from the shore, know never know what might happen next. It is important to wear a life vest for your safety.

Never turn your back to the ocean/sea. You may be swept off by strong waves that come without warning.

Dont swim when you are already drunk.

Learn atleast the basic of giving CPR.

TREKKING/MOUNTAIN CLIMBING:

Be polite and show respect to the people you will meet along the way especially the locals.

If possible take a tour guide with you. So that you will not get lost. You wouldnt want to end up walking whole day circling the areas that are virtually uninhabited.

Let other people or especially the authorities know your going up the mountain. There are some places that requires registration before you go mountain climbing. Dont take it for granted, its for your safety.

Firts time hikers must be wary most of dehydration and heatstroke. Drink and bring atleast plenty of water.

Wear sneakers or hiking sandals instead of rubber slippers. Some parts may be slippery and the proper footwear will give you more convenience and safety.

Opt to wear light cotton shirts instead of heavy fabrics. For some its better to wear shorts, but cargo pants or jogging pants are better suited for areas that have higher weed growth and mosquito infestation.

Respect the place. Maintain the cleanliness and natural beauty, avoid vandalism and burning.

Here are some other important things you shoudnt miss to bring:

enough water
Snacks
Sunscreen/insect repellant
Hat/visors
Shades
flashlights
sweater
knife/bolo
first aid kit/medicines
tent (if you want to stay overnight)
plastic bags (for your trash)


Have a safe trip. Enjoy!

My Super One

If you are a father, you have one of the most respected and demanding titles ever given to a man. It's not always easy to be a father; there are certainly moments of struggle. But hearing the word "Tatay", "Papa", "Dad" or whatever it is makes the entire journey blessed and wonderful.It would even leave a smile on your face because hearing these words is music to every father's ears.

But let's face it. We tend to overlook dads. Sure, those who can afford buy them a requisite tie on Father's Day or birthday. But by and large, fathers are down a few links on the family or friends or love-ones chain. First come mothers. Mothers whom we always seek for help, whom we shared our school experiences, new found friends, assignments, achievements, secrets and heartbreaks. Every laughter and tears of your life. After all, for our generation, fathers are generally the ones who meted out discipline and justice. We tend not to have warm, fuzzy feelings about the person who is about to punish us. When was the last time you mouth the words "I love you Dad?". Its always, Mom, I love you! Have you ever seen a guy having a tattoo spelled out F-A-T-H-E-R? Not likely.

*This picture was taken last January 2, during my father's 50th birthday. In the picture is my father, myself and my youngest sister.

That is the reason why I am giving this special space in my blog for the unsung hero of my life, my father, Mr. Dario Cayetano, my SUPER ONE.

At my very young age, I was thought how challenging life is. I was not born with all the wellness in life. My father was a former factory-turned-construction-worker. Even if I am not that fortunate, my father taught me how to be patient and strong to cope with what life has to offer. He was able to send me for a higher education, something he wasn't experience, an opportunity he never had. My father is a talented man who can sketch artistically. The one who often do all my drawings and lettering assignments and projects. In the kitchen, he is the master chef. He cooks better than my mother, especially when he prepares his specialty, my favorite "pinakbet". He also loves music as I do, something which I think I get from him. He is a man full of laughter and humors.

But life is not always like a blue sky with colorful rainbow in it. I never thought about the time I would have to step into my own father's shoes. He was always there to fill them. Then suddenly, he wasn't. And now I have had to step into them. I didn't feel prepared for the role, but I have to. Now I clearly understand how it is to be the father. What it takes to be the head of the family. It is all about self-sacrifice. Sacrifice for the people you value and love the most.

My father was diagnosed with liver cancer last year. And from then on, I can see how his health is rapidly declining. I feel guilty for not sending him to the best doctors for more check-ups and tests, for we do not know where to get the money to sustain his medication. Until the time came, where he, himself refused to continue his check-ups. He surrendered, he was losing hope. It is hard to pretend your OK while seeing the one you love aching. My heart not just feel broken but crushed. I cant help but cry most of the time. Right now, our faith is our only refuge. I'm still holding on to it for I know it is the strongest. Every second of each day is important. I try as much as possible to provide all my father's wish and needs, as long as I can. If I can't, there's no reason for me to give up and stop.

And if there is one thing I would tell the Lord, its for my father's fast recovery. If a miracle is too much to ask, then please let him extend his stay with us. Give us enough time to show how much we care for him. Allow us to fill all the emptiness and give him all the love that we taken for granted, things that we never much showed. Please give us enough confidence and faith to do it. Let us be his hand to hold when he's losing hope.

Last Father's Day, I sent my Nanay a message for my "Daduds", as how I call my father. The message still remains in my phone's Sent Item. I don't know why I haven't deleted it, maybe it is there for a reason. The message goes like this...

Nay, good morning,
pksbe kay DADUDS,
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY.
I LOVE YOU! Ingat kau lagi...

Sometimes my father listened without expression. There was no sentimentality or emotion, just frank acceptance of the inevitable, something I would say the character I inherit to him.

Daduds,(as i call him) I don't know how to say this to you personally. But I know someday, at the right time I will have the confidence to tell you this...

I am grateful to have been raised by a man who is so kindly predisposed to the wacky and the unexpected. You are a testament to the great values of kindness, hardwork and taking care of us. I will never forget the image of you among the crowd as I go up the stage to receive my awards in school, my first day in high school where you accompanied me in my first classroom, the happy moments we've shared near the lake and fishing, those days that we need to go up the mountain to get some guavas which I will sell in the school to have "baon", the times you took care of me when I was suffering from bronco pneumonia and holding my dextrose patiently as I play around when I was a kid. Thank you for encouraging me without being cloying and as a result, I felt supported but never pushed. Thank you Tay, for taking me in a real life adventure, where I learned the greatest lessons and experienced a different kind of excitement and fun.

I'm so sorry for the moment that we had a bad conversation a few years ago. We both had the point to fight for and I kept insisting my own. I was trying to be deaf yet still hearing how our voice both raised. In the end I realized, its me you are protecting. We were both in tears and couldn't speak anymore. That was the first time i ever see you crying. And there is no way to test a man's pain than too see tears welling from your eyes. I know saying I was sorry just didn't feel like enough. I'm sorry because it is too late for me to understand all of those. I'm sorry. I love you...

I guess the hardest part of one's life is seeing the most important to you suffering, yet you cannot do anything. Right now, my father is struggling to recover. I don't know how long we are going to stay together, but one thing is for sure, everyday, all the best that I can do is dedicated for him. His happiness is the main priority of my existence. Without his best guidance and inspirations to me, I would not be where I am now. I ought him every steps in the ladder of success and the achievements that I have.

Someday, even if we do not have tons of picture together to reminisce, I would ask the Lord to retain my memories of you, so that I can play back certain scenes in my head, moments that define you as my father and by extension, me.

Even if I am away from our family, even if I am having trouble hearing your voice in my head the way I used to, even if your voice is getting fainter as time goes on, maybe this blog will keep the memories alive and is a way to keep his voice loud and clear. I want to pump up the volume more.


We lost all our pictures when our country was hit by the strong typhoon Rosing last 1995. So I tried so hard making a simple drawing of me and my father.

Thank you GLOBE for letting me share my wonderful story about my Super One.This blog entry may somehow help to immortalize how great and wonderful my father is.

What about you?

Who is your Super One and Why? Share yours now.

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