TWD 0403: Isolation

Hershel and Rick

I can assure you that this post contains harmless spoilers. I would like to believe that. 

Good news and bad news for The Walking Dead fans are in store in Season 4's third episode: Isolation.

The good news: No main or recurring character will die in this week.

The bad news: Death/s (of main character/s) might happen next episode.

Less excitement? Hell no! The third episode has thrilling and action-packed sequences the TWD way.

One revelation is Carol's character who will make soft-heated fans cry (again). We will never look at her again the same way we see her in the past three seasons after this episode.

A High-Spirited Sepulturero

Noel Evangelista is the one-handed Sepulturero

He was born with only one hand, grew up being called names, was not able to go to college due to financial reasons, and now lives a life working for the dead.  Life wasn’t easy for this 31-year old sepulturero but he is in high spirits every day.

Noel Evangelista, or “Putol” to his close friends, is the youngest among the nine children of couple Salvador and Anita.  He started working as an undertaker at Evergreen Memorial Garden in Pasig City in April 2005.  He previously worked for five months in a small laundry shop in 2003.  He had difficulties getting a new job in the next two years.  That’s why when Evergreen came into the picture, he did not have second thoughts of accepting the offer in spite of the strange stories he hears about working in a graveyard.  

After eight years in the memorial park, Noel has yet to encounter any unusual experience though almost everyone in their group already had a hair-raising tale to share.  One claimed to have heard a crying baby in the middle of the night while another said he saw a white lady in the vicinity.  Maybe Noel is just lucky to have a 7 am to 4 pm schedule.

The only extraordinary moment at Evergreen that Noel will forever cherish is seeing the lovely Angel Locsin in her Darna costume running around the cemetery during a shooting for an episode of the popular TV series a few years ago.  Second on his list would be a chance encounter with respected TV journalist Jessica Soho who also taped a segment of her show there.

Noel works with seven other undertakers in the said cemetery.  All of them are males --- five married (including Noel), two bachelors and one is gay.  They call themselves “Samahan ng mga Baog” (gang of barren or sterile people) because all of them are yet to be blessed with a child.

Whenever asked what it is like working in a cemetery, Noel jokingly answers that they are like call center agents.  While call center agents work on the graveyard shift, the sepulturero is also working in the graveyard, only literally, he explains.  And the sepulturero also extends good customer service to clients like what those individuals in the BPO industry are doing.  At the cemetery, there are also VIPs called “alaga.”  These are the ones that the sepulturero takes care of everyday.  All Noel has to do is make sure that their tombs are clean from dirt or wild grasses, and he gets paid Php 200 per “alaga” every month on top of his salary.  In call centers, they call this a bonus.

This graduate of Rizal High School (the largest secondary school in the world according to the Guiness Book of Records) may only have one hand but he does more than just burying the dead or cutting grasses in the park.  He is also a talented athlete who excels in both volleyball and basketball in local tournaments. 

A proof of his remarkable skill was documented by ABS-CBN ace newscaster Korina Sanchez in her program Balitang K in 1999.  Noel was given 12 chances to shoot from the 3-point line and amazingly made 10 baskets under time pressure using only his left hand. 

Contrary to public perception, there is life in the cemetery.  Noel and his colleagues are such friendly and fun-loving people.  No matter how difficult their assignments are, they continue to deliver good work whether under the sun or pouring rain -- with a smile.   Any tough task is bearable because of their camaraderie and close relationship with one another.  Also, they are united by the same reason that compels them to work in the cemetery.  They are all breadwinners of their respective families. 

But Noel admits that he sometimes encounter difficulties at work. Being handicapped, he struggles when he is assigned to do tasks like digging the soil, carrying the coffin and other work that requires the use of two hands.  He is thankful that he has an understanding employer and co-workers.  But he always tries to make it up by volunteering as a messenger for their office every time his brother Edwin lets him use his motorcycle.

He is also known to his family and friends as a good cook.  His specialties include spaghetti, soup and spicy sisig.  He is still keeping his fingers crossed. He hopes that somehow he can still fulfill his dream of becoming a successful chef.

Noel, who was a sacristan of San Miguel chapel in Pasig City for four years until 2003, is just thankful to God for giving him an opportunity to be a productive individual despite of his disability.  He used to hide his handless right arm in his pocket when he was young.  But today, people won’t even notice that he only has one hand because of his hard work and dedication.  Truly, it is inspiring how this high-spirited sepulturero has overcome every challenge he encountered in life -- single-handedly.  

TWC 0402: Infected

Michonne in one of the sequences on "Infected"

At least one recurring character of the show will bid goodbye.

I can assure you that this is a harmless spoiler post about The Walking Dead Season 4 Episode 2: Infected.

Just one friendly reminder. Don't watch this episode during meal time specially if you have low tolerance seeing blood spurts and gutted intestines. Well, if you've been watching TWD since its first season, I think you can handle it anyways. Suit your self.

The first 15 minutes is bloody action-packed and will introduce you to a mysterious character who might also be the same person responsible or have a hand in the death of Patrick in the previous episode.

Too bad, Michonne won't be part of the cat chase inside the prison but will be involved in an unfamiliar situation--- being kicked ass by zombies. Yup, you read it right. Did she die? Hmm, I told you this is a harmless spoiler so better watch the episode to know the answer.

A father with two kids will die. Will it be Rick or Hershel ? Well, their will definitely be emotions pouring at the death bed.

The ending of this episode will open a number of clashes among the characters which will begin on episode 3.

Animals dominate the MTV Top Hits Chart this week

I was about to turn off the TV but was glued for another 15 minutes after I got myself to MTV. The top 3 videos this week bit me like crazy animals!

#3 is The Fox (This should easily win the video of the year award lol)

#2 is Roar (Katy Perry is beautiful. Hear she is the most stunning creature on Earth)

#1 is Wrecking Ball (My all-time Miley Cyrus MTV... ever!)

Let's see if these videos will stay on top of the food chain next week.

Hanging Out with a Hunk and talking about his concert

Who says I only hangout with guys who I share with the same waistline and age bracket?

Well, it was great to have a chance to chat with a celebrity hunk this afternoon.

He can act. He can dance. He can sing.

And it doesn't stop there. He is also good-looking and owns a well-chiseled abs. 

GMA Artist Center prime artist Aljur Abrenica is set to conquer the spotlight as he stage his first major concert this November 7 at the Music Museum. 

Dubbed  as "Come and Get", supporters of Aljur are in for a special treat as he is expected to perform tracks and medleys that he personally chose.

Aljur Abrenica performing during the blogcon

Aljur, during his blogcon held at Congo Grille at Quezon City, expressed his excitement for his upcoming concert which will feature his favorite songs that he dedicates to all his fans. He also said that people should also watch out for the surprise numbers that they have prepared for the concert including his performances with some of the best Pinoy performers in the country today.

People close to his heart who have confirmed to join him on stage are Julie Anne San Jose, Rochelle Pangilinan, brother Vin Abrenica and Kris Bernal, his leading lady in GMA Network's weeknight primetime series Prinsesa ng Masa. Thanks to Stratworks for making this happen!

Ticket prices for the concert are P2,000 (VIP); P1,500 (Orchestra) and P1,000 (Balcony).

And if you can't still get enough of Aljur, he will be releasing an album under MCA early next year.

Now that just solves what I Valentines gift my wife will get on 2014.

It’s time to own a Foton

The cars we drive say a lot about us.

I couldn’t agree more with American author Alexandra Paul.

My family owns a decade-old car with one unfriendly door at the back which only opens when it feels like to; a portable headrest that I sometimes use as a paperweight for old newspaper at home; and a “loyal” car stereo with only one audible station and a CD player that only plays the Kenny Rogers album.

Now, tell me what you think about me based on the car I drive? Promise... I won’t hit you with this portable headrest that I am holding right now.

During times like these, the only logical thing to do is to look for a new car… JUST look for a new car for the meantime and let’s see when I will be able to buy it. Online is one of the best places to hunt for that dream car. Aside from getting helpful reviews (and rants) about certain brands and models, you can easily compare prices of vehicles from different manufacturers. 

Spending hours googling for our prospective wheels led me to www.foton.com.ph and I must say, the Foton Thunder 4x4 hit me like a lightning (pun intended) and made me tell myself, “It’s time to own a Foton!”

Why would I swap our old car for a Foton? Let me state the reasons one by one using the name of this fast-growing commercial vehicle brand FOTON.

Family Friendly. This 5-seater pick-up is perfect for me and my loved ones who are always on the go. My wife and I love to travel with our 4-year old son Charles. In every journey, we prioritize safety. Foton interior features includes Child Safety Lock, Dual Airbags, 3-point seatbelts and a One-touch Electric Window Control for driver. The last time I got into a vehicle with such wonderful add-ons was when my boss asked me to unload her stuff from her car. 

Outstanding Design. Have you ever experience while on the road, you were marvelled with the good-looking luxury vehicle that just passed by and then you realized it was a Foton. Well, it happened to me once and the first thing I said was, “That’s the one from Willing-Willie?” That’s how eye-popping Foton’s car exterior can be. And when we talk about what’s inside, it would be good to know that Foton has entered into a partnership with diesel engine leader Cummins to produce heavy-duty diesel engines for its vehicles.  Nuff said.

Truly Cost-efficient. Talking about quality cars, Foton definitely offers the best prices. And the fact that you use diesel, you’ll get great mileage. Typically, you’ll get 25 to 30 percent better fuel economy from Foton than similarly performing gasoline engines. Diesels also can deliver as much or more fuel economy than traditional gasoline-electric hybrids. Now if you are still not convinced with the savings you can get from Foton, better look for a solar-powered pick-up or a truck that runs in kerosene.  

One of a kind.  In just 14 years, Foton has become China’s biggest commercial vehicle brand. That speaks a lot about the quality of the brand. Each car is carefully produced in the industry city of Weifang in China (a factory in Subic will open soon) with the vision of helping every Foton owner to succeed in their goals in life that’s why they embraced the tagline “Empower Your Business.”  Well, I don’t mind using my car for trades and transactions. I would probably have the best-looking mobile canteen in Ortigas or Makati.

Never-ending possibilities.  Owning a Foton not only gives comfort and safety to users or a remarkable tool for business to succeed. Having this car opens many opportunities to different kind of people who are looking for their dream car. If ever I get to own a Foton Thunder in the future, I’ll be packing our stuff and be touring the country with my family as far as where our wheels can bring us. For me, owning a Foton is a great fortune.  It’s more than just a car, it is realization a dream.  

Are you looking for your dream car like me?

Join Foton’s Big Show 2013′s Grand Launch at the World Trade Center on October 25 and witness the launching of the new FOTON View, the 1st dancing wheel loader in the Philippines. Get a chance to trade-in your old vehicles from October 26 to 27 avail of BIG DISCOUNTS and BIG REWARDS when purchasing FOTON vehicles at the event. Receive amazing giveaways just for coming and you get even more when you test drive our passenger vehicles or attend our forums and trainings. No entrance fee! 

I am inviting all my readers, family and friends to join me and have a chance to attend the test-drive at the Foton’s Big Show 2013. Just register here: http://bit.ly/FotonReg

TWD 0401: 30 Days Without an Accident

Daryl and Carol

Beginning today, I will blogging about The Walking Dead simply because I have been hooked with this US TV series. 

The AMC hit’s fourth season premiere, “30 Days Without an Accident,” was intense and heartbreaking and tragic.


Now, here's a little spoiler: Fans will be introduced to a number of new characters then three of them will bid goodbye in different ways--- one will be gutted, the other one will commit suicide and the third one will die mysteriously either due to an ailment or a foul play. Analyze it.

Btw, love the grocery store sequence. Scream fest! 

Now, what's your take on this week's episode?

Rainy Friday and MORe

It's raining on a Friday!?

What can get worse than this? I was trapped inside our house this morning with nothing in my head but the office workloads that have to be finished within the week. What can I do, it's raining cats and dogs. Wait, I think it's cows and carabaos with the way this pouring of water on our roof sounds.

More reason to pout came when I got a text message from my wife that she have yet to reach her office because of the traffic jam at C5 Road. Then I just heard over the radio that people should avoid Makati this afternoon because there will be a grand parade to be led by Ms. World 2013 Megan Young.

I was about to turn off the radio when I decided to just switch the station and look for "happy" stuff to listen to.

Then I heard this laughter. A familiar laughter, actually.

"Ang nag-iisang babaeng punung-puno ng pasabog," this female DJ declared. Then, she introduced herself as Chikki Boomboom.

No, you are my dear friend Arbie whom I have worked with in some events and activities in the past (I told my self). Well, he is indeed Arbie aka Chikki B. and I am so proud how this girl climb the ladder towards her dream.

Not too long ago, we meet at least once a week to discuss upcoming gigs or exchange text messages for some social media activities or just to give update on the status of her radio auditions or the latest out-of-town trip she had with her friends.

Now, from 9:00 am to 12:00 nn every weekday, she is hosting, along with co-DJ Papi Charlz, what is dubbed as the "kauna-unahang game show sa FM Radio."

If you're a fan or regular listener 101.9 MOR, you have definitely heard of the crazy duo of Ready, Get, MORe!

Everyday, these guys giveaway prizes to lucky listeners who will join their amusing gimmicks like my favorite Taglish where you just have to translate in English their mystery Tagalog words of the day.

There are also days that surprise Kapamilya stars join them in the radio booth making their riot exchange of punchlines doubly fun to listen to.

Just call 415-1111 o 924-2684 if you want to join and get a chance to win exciting MOR premium items and "limpak limpak na kasiyahan." You can also visit www.mor1019.com for more details about the program and other shows of the FM radio station of ABS-CBN.

Now, should i still go to work or just listen to Ready, Get, MORe? Hmm... let's see...

8 Slices and Tidbits about Project Pie

Growing up (or getting old, the moment you get in your thirties), there are only few things in life that is equally worth experiencing when hot or cold--- water, the weather, chocolate and pizza!

It’s pretty obvious that I’ll be talking about pizza in this post since I mentioned it last in my enumeration.  Pizza, of course, will forever have a special place in my heart (aside from my tummy) since the first meal I shared with my ex-girlfriend and now my wife Leah is a round of thin crust pizza more than eight years ago. 

Thus, it has been our tradition that in every special occasion, especially on our anniversary, we have at least a slice of this tasty treat, which originated way back 997 AD from the Italian town Gaeta, for us to share. Every year, we also look for a new restaurant where we can have a pizza feast to celebrate. The Pizza god might have been a fan of our love story that he (or she) paved way for an amazing food haven like Project Pie to be situated just a few meters from my office.

I came, I saw and I conquered a whole pizza all by my self for the very first time and I am sharing eight slices of things you might want to know about my new favorite restaurant in this side of the city.

One outlet is already conquering thousands of taste buds and tummies. Project Pie, an artisan-inspired create-your-own-pizza opened its first and only (as of today) outlet at 515 Shaw Blvd., corner Laurel St, Wack-Wack, Mandaluyong City. It’s right in front of the new site of S&R which replaced the iconic Cherry Foodarama. It opens and closes at 10 everyday.

 Two ways to order pizza. First option is to build your own for only P285 and be the boss in choosing what cheese to put--- gorgonzola, mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan and feta--- to go along with any or all the other toppings available: pepperoni, crumbled meatballs, chicken, prosciutto, Italian sausage, bacon, Canadian bacon, green bell peppers, jalapeños, roasted red peppers, red onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, black olives, garlic, pesto, pineapple, cilantro, fresh chopped basil, artichokes, rosemary and sea salt. Twenty nine toppings on your pizza if you want.  The second option is to order by number for P245. Please refer to entry number 7 below for the details.

     Three healthy salads available for the green ones. Health buffs (who can’t resist the scent of a freshly-baked pan pizza) can grab a slice or two and order some side salad. You can have the (a) Classic Caesar composed of romaine, parmesan, croutons and Caesar dressing; (b) Mixed Greens with grilled chicken, feta, craisins, candied walnuts and raspberry vinaigrette; ot (c) Pizza Salad that contains mixed greens, grilled chicken, feta, mozzarella, tomatoes, Balmasic dressing on warm pizza dough.

      Fourth branch of the franchise and first outside USA. That’s how special this store is. The first three are in Las Vegas, San Diego and Colorado. Probably the first time an international franchise opened in Manila ahead of cosmopolitan cities like Hongkong or Singapore.  You might be salivating by now that’s why I inserted an inedible trivia in the middle of the list. 

      Five other awesome eats you can order. Parmesan & Garlic is P145 per order so does yummy desserts like Banana Nutella, Peanut Butter Nuttela, and Cinnamon Sugar. If you had too much banana lately (maybe because of too much Minions stuff), I suggest you try the Strawberry Mango Nutella which is still reasonable at P195. 

      Six ways to quench your thirst here. I will be enumerating the drinks for sale at Project Pie from the cheapest: (a) bottled water (P50); (b) bottomless Coca-Cola, China Mist iced tea (P65); domestic beer (P65); Perrier or San Pellegrino (P100); imported beer (P150) and Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay (P250). I bet my boys stopped reading at "domestic beer."

       Seven guaranteed-to-make-you-crave-for-more pizza creations that you can choose from for P245 only per whole pizza: (1) classic cheese pie; (2) signature red sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella, Italian sausage, garlic and crumbled meatballs; (3) tomato, artichoke, red onion, pesto, feta, mozzarella (white pizza); (4) sliced tomatoes, fresh chopped basil, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic (white pizza); (5) mozzarella, ricotta, gorgonzola, parmesan, cracked black pepper, olive oil, garlic, fresh chopped basil (white pizza); (6) grilled chicken, sliced red onion, cilantro, mozzarella, gorgonzola, barbecue sauce;  (7) prosciutto, caramelized onions, mozzarella and parmesan.

      Eight slices of pizza are not enough. This will probably be the words that will form in your head if not come out from your mouth after finishing your meal, while looking at the other customer at Project Pie still enjoying a few more slices on their plates.

   

Now, if you’re thinking of going out with your family, friends or officemates anytime, you might want to consider Pizza Project. Build your own pizza as you like it for a price that is friendly to your pocket.