Wala akong pakialam, I’m just a concerned citizen...

Kwentong Eye in the Ship

Ano naman ang mapapala ko? Ang mahalaga naipaalam ko sa inyo ang mabuti at dapat gawin... Oo buhay nyo yan at gusto nyong mag take ng risk e... kung nakalusot kayo, swerte nyo at pag nahuli kayo malas nyo lang, wag na lang kayong mansisi ng ibang tao, agency o gobyerno dahil alam nyo naman ang tama at mali, ang legal at hindi legal!

Bakit nga ba lagi na lang nasa huli ang pagsisisi? Bakit nga ba mayroon pang taong gustong iparating ang mga balitang magbibigay sa atin ng tamang daan? at bakit meron pa rin taong gustong gustong abutin ang mga pangarap kahit hindi naman tama? At bakit meron pa ring mga ahensya o grupong sa hangad lang ay kumita ng pera ay magdadala kay Juan dela Cruz sa ibang bansa na hindi tamang proseso? O sadya bang ang kahirapan ang syang nagdudulot upang kumapit tayo sa patalim?

Totoo po na isa sa pinaka magandang lugar sa mundo sa parte ng Europa, ang United Kingdom (countries including England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales) ay masasabi nating isa sa mga ‘dreams’ ng pinoy na gustong marating. At sino ba ang hindi gustong marating ito? Mapalad din ako na makarating dito kahit wala sa pangarap ko! at ang nakakatuwa pa ay ‘I’m beginning to love this country’ (lol) malinis, maganda ang paligid, mataas ang pagtanaw sa ‘human rights’, mapag-alaga sa likas na yaman, sa dagat, sa bundok sa mga hayop at sa kanyang kapaligiran. Dito mo makikita sa totoong buhay ang mga naglalakihang Palasyo (historic Edinburgh Castle), mga malilinis at naggagandahang parks, mga monuments, mga landmarks mga orihinal na ‘botiques’ mga super duper na discount on sale items (ang aking weakness) hays sarap mag shopping (sige lang kaskas ng kaskas), at higit pa don ang one pound (£1) is equal to Seventy Pesos (P 70) Wow kung kumikita ka ng £3,000 ay mayroon kang P210,000.00 aysus kaya naman pala sarap pumunta ng UK (lol)... teka muna bakit ba iyong ang pinapaabot ko hahaha lalo lang matatakam kayong pumunta dito hehe at masarap pati dito ung climate, malamig kahit summer hehe at pag summer alas-tres ng umaga e maliwanag na at magtatagal ito hanggang alas-onse ng gabi! Swak ito sa mga binatang katulad ko (wink*) sarap maglakad at maggala sa kung saan saan (lol)... un nga lang napupuyat ang mga manok haba ng umaga...


Teka nga muna balik tayo sa pinupunto ko mga kababayan hehehe ayun nga po alam nyo bang naghihigpit na ang UKBA (United Kingdom Border Agency) at kanilang immigration sa mga nagnanais na makapunta dito? Opo at ibibigay ko sa inyo ang ilan sa mga balitang aking nakalap, hindi po ito tsismis, napag-uusapan lang, walang labis walang kulang, ano ba napapakanta tuloy ako...

Sa aking palagay, eto pakiramdam ko lang ha! Ayaw ng mga Briton ng maraming tao at maingay (kaya siguro walang divisoria dito! At bawal ang SM joke!) o ayaw din nilang magkaroon ng smokey mountain o kaya mga squatter sa Manila at India (lol) sa totoo lang ayaw talaga nila non... like what happen recently ung eviction sa illegal travellers of Dale Farms... (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/10/26/dale-farm-eviction-delayed-yet-again-by-bats-115875-23514859/) yan basahin nyo ang buod ng istorya... o kaya i-google nyo na lang at marami kayong makikita don... napapagod na kong mag cut & paste (lol). Katuwa pa sa balitang iyan na delay because of wildlife, o dib a sabi ko sa inyo, they are protecting wildlife and animals... kakaiba talaga ang UK! Pati bats and newts they care for all of them... see site of Keeping exotic pets at http://www.keepingexoticpets.co.uk/caring-for-newts.html mama mia! they care for all of these insects and animals! No wonder kung bakit ang ganda ganda ng kapaligiran nila, kung bakit blessed sila sa magandang mountains, rivers, seas, etc. etc. kasi they are a good stewards of God given creation... wala akong masasabi... kinukulong nila ang pumapatay ng ibon or those cruel to animals... kaya ung pumapatay ng aso at bumibili ng aso ewan ko lang sa inyo kung saan kayo pupulutin!

E bat ba napunta tayo sa mga wildlife? Ah kasi parte sila ng delay of Squatters eviction ahihi... At alam nyo ayaw nila ng maraming anak! Sa atin nagkalat! We love children and lots of children (lol)... Konti na nga lang sila dito pero may nag aabandon pa ng mga child, parang gusto kong mag-inquire at mag adopt, imported na bata (lol)... eto puntahan nyo ang website nila http://www.giveachildahome.co.uk/ inquire kayo hehe... ayaw nilang maraming tao sa bansa nila kaya meron sila nito NO to 70 million visit the site at http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/19658 e tayo tuwang tuwa pa at napapa dyaryo ang recent happening ng 70th billion child from Philippines yahoo meron pang regalo ha at binisita pa ng UN katuwa naman talaga... o nabasa nyo ang petition ng mga katauhan dito? Ano sabi, “because of the strong public petition on immigration they are calling for the necessary steps in curbing immigrants, visas, etc. eto na naghihigpit na sila, kaya naman isa sa mga affected e ung mga gustong pumunta dito thru Study visa o eto puntahan nyo ang site -
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-15544453 tighter rules were introduced on student visas, 762 banks from Philippines were banned and have been put on a Government black-list of financial institutions which cannot be trusted to verify documents supporting student visa applications
http://www.talktalk.co.uk/news/article/3-000-banks-on-visa-blacklist/25478/ ilan yan s mga pangyayari dito na aking nakakalap.

Totoo ayaw rin nilang mahatiian pa ng ibang mga tao with regards to their grants kasi pag british citizen kana may karapatan ka sa public finances (health, finance & benefits). Mga kababayan hirap na rin ang kanilang bansa, crisis din po sila... at eto ang mainit na balita: UK 'highly likely' to slip into recession, warns UBS http://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/UK-highly-likely-slip-tele-4000980940.html?x=0


O ayan bahala na kayong umunawa ng mga nakalap ng inyong tsismosong kababayan dito sa UK hehe... actually trabaho ko kasi ang maglagay ng news and information sa TV mess hall ng barko, kaya ayan wala akong ginawa kundi maghalungkat ng balita lalo na pag affected tayong mga pinoy...

Un lang at magandang gabi sa inyong lahat! Hays natapos din ang blog na ito, 5:45 pm na dito at sobrang dilim na sa labas ng barko... taglamig na dito at ito na ang huli kong project sa UK waaaaaaaaaa... I love this country especially during summer (lol)... punta na ko next year sa South America... Brazil here I come...thank you Lord for the blessings...

Gandang umaga Pilipinas!

Looking for a friends:

Qualifications: One of the following:
He/she should loves to cook, bake,
prepares juices and other drinks...







He/she should have time for
running/jogging in morning/evening
and joins fun run/marathon...










He/she should love taking photographs and
loves to shoot, have time to go out to shoot for any topic...

He/she should love plants, likes
gardening...








He/she should be adventurous, out goer, loves to travel anywhere (kkb)...



He/she should be a blogger,
knows anything when it comes to blogging...
tulad ni Pablong makatat manunulat (http://pablongmakatatmanunulat.blogspot.com)
at si pinoy sa earth (http://pinoysaearth.blogspot.com)


Ay hindi ko po sinasabing wala kayong ginagawa (lol!) hindi naman po dapat lahat alam nyo hehe one of those lang na pwede kong kasama sa shooting, sa pagluluto, sa galaan, etc. etc. matagal ang bakasyon ko ngayon yahooooooooooooo

eto ang kasagutan sa Pinoy via UK student visa

Attention: Pinoys, Agency, Banks & Government
based on the news from Hello-Phils regarding the

UK-based students vent anger at PH agency

http://pinoysaearth.blogspot.com/2011/10/uk-based-students-vent-anger-at-ph.html

that was published recently
Be aware po: kanina lang eto ang nabasa ko... Totoo po na naghihigpit na ang UK Border Agency sa mga gustong pumasok sa UK na non EU member... at isa na ang Pilipinas sa watchlist...

'3,000 banks' on visa blacklist
http://www.talktalk.co.uk/news/article/3-000-banks-on-visa-blacklist/25478/

Published: 2:59am, 30th October 2011
Updated: 9:23am, 30th October 2011


Nearly 3,000 banks have been put on a Government black-list of financial institutions which cannot be trusted to verify documents supporting student visa applications, officials have said.

Foreign students applying to study in the UK who claim they have funds to support themselves and pay for their course held in any of the banks on the list will receive no points for maintenance, the UK Border Agency (UKBA) said.

The list, which includes 1,977 banks in India, three in Pakistan and 762 in the Philippines, is the latest part of the Government's efforts to crack down on bogus students.

Study is the most common reason for migrants coming to the UK, with three in four of the 228,000 who came to the UK for study last year coming from outside the EU.

A UKBA spokeswoman said: "We have radically overhauled the student visa system in order to tackle abuses whilst continuing to attract the brightest and best genuine students from across the world.
"We need to be confident that those applying for student visas have the funds to support themselves and pay for their course in the UK."

Alp Mehmet, vice-chairman of the campaign group Migration Watch UK, said the list was "just one indication of the rampant abuse of the student visa system".

"It is high time that interviews were re-introduced in countries of concern to weed out bogus students before they get a visa," he said. "Once they are here they are not only very difficult and expensive to remove but they also damage the reputation of our very valuable higher education sector."

Officials will give a 30-day notice period when any bank is added to the list to enable potential foreign students to provide financial documentation which meets the new requirements.

The list will also be kept under review, officials said.

Ang buhay nga naman...

There comes a time sa buhay natin na dumadating ang saya, lungkot, ginhawa, hirap, sakit, tagumpay, katatawanan at kamatayan... sabi nga ni kuya Kim ang buhay ay “weather weather lang”. Pabago bago, nagpapalit, dumarating ang bagyo, tag-ulan, tag-init at tamang panahon... parang buhay lang di ba? Sa mga bagay na iyon, handa ba nating tanggapin? Hindi naman pwede na laging masaya at tagumpay... dumadating din ang mga bagyo at sakit o lungkot as spices of our lives. People are learned from that lesson at iyon ang nagiging daan para magtagumpay at magkaroon ng kagalakan...

Hello! Philippines – yan ang pambansang dyaryo ng Filipino dito sa UK which I recently knew to one of my Filipino colleagues here in Vessel Alliance, (one of the Technip Fleet here in North Sea and in coming days will be sold to Seamec). Hello-Philippines which contains news around the Globe kaya ang mga pinoy updated din sa Pinas when it comes to showbiz, kaya I sometimes surprised sa mga pinoy e... sabi ko nga, “mga tsimoso kayo talaga (lol)” pero hindi ko sila masisi maybe it’s one of their outlet, ang magbasa ng mga kaganapan sa favourite nilang artista. That’s Life ika nga! Iyon ang nagbibigay kasiyahan sa kanila so hindi dapat hadlangan...

Ang buhay talaga hindi pare-pareho kanya kanyang gusto, kanya kanyang bisyo, kanya kanyang plano... ibat-ibang hilig... kaya may kanya kanya ding pangyayari ang bawat isa, at kanya kanyang experiences, at dito sa Hello! Mababasa nyo ang ibat-ibang kaganapan... Sino nga ba ang dapat sisihin sa mga bagay bagay na nangyayari sa atin? Ikaw (Me,myself & I) sila (surroundings), mga tao (others) at mga namamahala (Government), Sino nga ba? Tulad na lang nito:

Another Pinoy 'drug mule' arrested in Hong Kong (http://hello-hilippines.com/term/world/another-pinoy-drug-mule-arrested-in-hong-kong.html) The Filipino, who had worked as an airport cab driver in the Philippines, was allegedly offered by a drug syndicate to go abroad to deliver goods.

Sarili – ginusto mo yan dahil may pangagailangan ka, para sa iyo at sa pamilya mo... at ano naman ang consequence?

Surroundings – lahat naman naghihirap at nakikita mo sa iba ang madaliang pagyaman... nakakita ka ng mga masasamang gawain na madaliang kita at hindi naman sila nahuhuli...

Others – kailangan ka nila pero may kapalit... Pera – kailangan mo! Kailangan nila! Kasi kikita sila pag nagawa mo ung pinapagawa nila... yon nga lang may kasamang risk at ikaw ang mapapahamak... sana lang tulungan ka nila...

Government – dahil ba sa walang mapapasukang trabaho? Dahil ba sa kawalan ng oportunidad sa sariling bayan? Hindi naman natin dapat sisihin ito sa gobyerno... lagi na lang pag may mga problema lalo na pag nasa ibang bansa... lagi na lang gobyerno... buhay nga naman!


Mapait na karanasan di ba? Ginusto natin and unfortunately nahuli ka! Akala nyo kasi ang kasamaan ay nagtatagumpay! Sorry ka! Ang Kabutihan pa rin ang syang mangingibabaw!

Pinoy feeds the Homeless in Austria (http://hello-philippines.com/articles/lifestyle-features/pinoy-feeds-the-homeless-in-austria.html)

Ito naman ang isang magandang kwento na masasabi nating ginusto nya dahil naranasan nya ang buhay na ‘yon at kasayahan nya na makapaglingkod sa kanyang kapwa dahil naging ganon din ang kanyang buhay at naging matagumpay sya at binabalik nya sa iba ang blessings na natanggap nya buhat sa itaas. Pananalig sa Diyos – isang gabay upang matunton natin ang tamang daan at kasayahan at kaligayahan ng buhay, bagay na masasabi nating tamang ginawa ng isang tao... mula sa kahirapan hanggang ang makamtan ang masaganang buhay... buhay na wala tayong masising tao... buhay na masasabi nating tagumpay at nakakatuwa na makarinig tayo ng mga ganong karanasan... kasama ang pagpupunyaging makaahon sa bagyo at hirap at tamang pagpaplano at pagtungo sa hinaharap... walang masamang hangarin tulad ng naunang balita... wag mong sabihing wala kang masamang hangarin sa pamilya mo? Nag connect nga e... masama ung hangarin mong magdala ng droga sa ibang bansa kaya pati ang pamilya mo napasama na rin...

Flood horror:Tributes to nurse who drowned in her basement (http://hello-philippines.com/term/europe/floods-horror-tributes-to-nurse-who-drowned-in-her-basement.html)

Ito naman ang isang pangyayaring nakakalungkot... hindi natin talaga alam kung hanggang kailan tayo mananatili sa mundo... walang nakaka-alam kung paano at kailan ang nakatakdang araw na yon... bigla-bigla na lang dadating ang pangyayari... hindi natin alam ang bukas... Ang mahalaga mayroon tayong Diyos na titingin sa atin... may Hesus na nagmamahal sa atin na makakasama natin sa kabilang buhay... may eternal life (John 3:16)... may panibagong buhay na wala ng luha at mapapait na karanasan... nakahanda ka ba kaibigan?

Filipino visionaries honored in San Francisco (http://hello-philippines.com/term/u-s/filipino-visionaries-honored-in-san-francisco.html)

‘Make a Difference’ ito naman ang tema ng mga pinoy na nagpupunyagi upang mapaganda ang antas ng pamumuhay at makita ang angking talino at sipag ng mga pinoy... gawaing makapukaw ng kasayahan sa mga mambabasa... proud ka pag nakakabasa ka ng mga ganito di ba? Sabi nga ‘Tagumpay nila, tagumpay natin’ paano naman un, ‘Pagbagsak nila, pagbagsak din natin?’ siguro dapat, ‘Tagumpay nila, maipagmamalaki natin’ tulad na lang ni Manny Pacquiao, tagumpay sya at maipagmamalaki natin... hindi naman natin tagumpay yon e, siya lang ang kumita hindi tayo (lol)... mga taong may vision at may plano sa kanilang propesyon... mga taong naghahangad to ‘make a difference’... mga magagandang hangarin... nagtatagumpay...

UK-based students vent anger at PH agency (http://hello-philippines.com/term/europe/uk-based-students-vent-anger-at-ph-agency.html)

I quote ko lang ito, based sa sinabi ng isang estudyante, “Napakalaking gamble noon sa amin na ang laki-laki ng binayad namin tapos wala naman (trabaho). Akala namin pagdating dito okay. Yun pala, yung mga sinabi niyang trabaho, di naman totoo,” said John, the designated spokesperson of the students. --------- Sorry po kuya student visa ata ang inaplayan nyo e hindi naman working visa at ikaw naman Agency minsan, para lang kumita at maraming makuhang pera e nag dadagdag kayo ng konting salita to win them... Minsan hirap spelingin talaga ang mga pinoy hehe... When I attended the Job Fair sa MOA complex meron dong agency na working abroad thru student visa na minsan nga pangako un ng agency na makakapag trabaho while studying... pwes, ang totoo po walang ganon... marami po ditong mga pinoy akong nakakausap at hirap talaga silang makahanap ng work dahil nga pinunta nila rito ay mag-aral at HINDI MAGHANAP NG TRABAHO... sana working visa na lang hinanap nyo at hindi pa kayo mapapasama... un lang walang nakahandang working visa sa basta-basta na lang papasok dito... working professional ang kailangan nila at dadaan ka sa butas ng karayom bago makapasok... sabi dito: Tier 4 visas are likewise not intended as a route to residency in the UK or British naturalization but it would provide qualified applicants the possibility of transferring to a work permit under Tier 2. “The fastest route available for Filipino health care workers, dentists, pharmacists, HRM graduates who want to reach the UK is through the Tier 4 student visa category, which requires the educational institution to accept the student,” said Geslani. (http://hello-philippines.com/articles/lifestyle-features/uk-requirements-for-filipino-job-applicants.html) pakibasa ung buong article sa blog na ito.

Sana lang ung school na tatanggap sa inyo ay bigating school, at maging maganda ang transcript of records mo at magiging daan para makakuha ka ng work here, tulad na lang ng nabasa kong news na isang pinoy ang nakapag work dito dahil maganda ang kanyang records sa school... hmmm mayaman po ung taong un at talagang na finance ng kanyang pamilya para makapag –aral dito at hindi tulad ng iba na ang intension ay makapunta dito at mag work na magiging daan para maging illegal aliens...

Hays, ang buhay nga naman!...

TAGUMPAY NG PINOY!

Filipino visionaries honored in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO - Building coalitions between community and education leaders for the last 15 years, Hydra Mendoza has championed improving academic standards in public schools.

As president of the San Francisco Board of Education, this Filipino has made her countrymen proud.

“The work that I’m doing in the city is really valuable because I can influence and I can put a bug in people’s ears and say, what about the Filipino community? Or say that’s not how we like to do things,” said Mendoza.

Lou Razon found her passion for design at a young age. When she decided to pursue a career doing what she loves in the US, she knew she was doing more than just following the American dream.

“I want to show the world that Fil-Ams are great designers and very talented,” Razon said.

These two women were among the many who were recognized for their contributions to the community as the City of San Francisco paid tribute to this year’s Filipino American milestones.

The US Senate recognized October as Filipino American History Month.

Those who strive to make a difference everyday however said, celebrating the Filipino is certainly not a one-shot deal.

“Marami kasing magandang dala ang Filipino kahit saan siya magpunta. In the attitude about work ang sipag ang resilience kahit anong challenge gagawin niya para sa kanyang pamilya. So ang gusto lang natin mapa-alala wag silang mahiya Pilipino sila,” said Kai Rodriguez of The Filipino Channel. -ABS CBN:

KAAWA-AWA NAMAN SI ATE...

Floods horror:Tributes to nurse who drowned in her basement

A HOSPICE worker desperately screamed for help for 10 minutes as flood water engulfed her basement flat.

Neighbours have described the final horrific moments of the Filipino-born Irish citizen Cecilia De Jesus, who became the second victim of the flooding that engulfed parts of the country on Monday night.

She died just hours after off-duty Garda Ciaran Jones was swept away while attempting to divert traffic away from a dangerous bridge in Co Wicklow.

The mother of one, who was in her 50s, had only recently moved into the basement flat on Parnell Road, Harold's Cross, Dublin, in anticipation of her husband's arrival from the Philippines.

He had been due to join her in December but instead was last night dealing with the shock of the freak accident that claimed his wife's life.

Flood waters engulfed the row of terraced Georgian houses around 11pm on Monday night, after the River Poddle burst its banks.

According to witnesses, water quickly made its way down an incline from Harold's Cross through a series of houses and streets before hitting Parnell Road.

"I was woken up by the sound of water pouring. There's a wall behind our buildings which collapsed and that rush of water came up to the houses," a neighbour, Dave Cullen, said.

Traumatised

Around the same time, the Grand Canal in front of the terrace also burst its banks.

"By the time I got to the front door, the water was up to my waist, the car, which I had left in front of my house, was covered, you couldn't see it anymore," Mr Cullen added.

A woman living above Mrs De Jesus's basement flat had been awoken by the sound of screaming.

"Help me, help me, help me, for maybe 10 minutes she was crying," a still traumatised Larisa Vingre told the Irish Independent.

A group of Pakistani men who live in the top floor of the house and firemen who arrived soon after, made desperate attempts to get into the basement, which by this stage was almost completely submerged.

Rescuers even tried to smash to smash a hole in the ceiling of the flat but were unable to help Mrs De Jesus.

It wasn't until the basement was pumped out yesterday that rescuers were able to retrieve her remains.

Friends have described the mother of one as a warm and jolly woman.

"She was a very nice person, she was helping her family. She had really good friends in Harold's Cross and was a loving and caring person," Rebecca Gasataya who worked with the victim in the mortology unit of Our Lady's Hospice, Harold's Cross said.

"Her husband used to work here but went home to the Philippines after he lost his job as a carer."

Mr De Jesus had been due to move back to Ireland from the Philippines.

Last night the couple's student nurse son Michael Kevin De Jesus posted "Mamma, I miss you" on his mother's Facebook page.

UK-based students vent anger at PH agency

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - More Filipino students are coming out to complain against Kirsten Student Development Inc., a Philippine-based consultancy agency that gave advice to applicants on how to secure a student visa in the UK.

These students contacted ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau to vent their anger against Kirsten, which promised to talk to the UK colleges and assist the students with their ad hoc requirements in getting the student visa. The students shelled out up to $7,000 to Kirsten for this service.

But what attracted the students to Kirsten was the opportunity for them to work in the UK while studying.

They were promised to be given on-the-job-training with pay, but these jobs came later than anticipated. Many were left with no job or money to finance their education in the UK.

This is the root cause of rage among the students in Birmingham.

“Napakalaking gamble noon sa amin na ang laki-laki ng binayad namin tapos wala naman (trabaho). Akala namin pagdating dito okay. Yun pala, yung mga sinabi niyang trabaho, di naman totoo,” said John, the designated spokesperson of the students.

He was earlier interviewed by ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau on the same issue.

Aurora Amelig came to the UK in 2008 as a student, also getting the visa through Kirsten. After only 3 months, Amelig and her fellow students found out the college where they were enrolled in suddenly went into liquidation and was forced to close down.

Around a hundred Filipino students were affected by the sudden closure of Affinity College. Amelig said, as a consultancy agency trusted to choose a reputable college for them, Kristen failed to do its job.

They were not able to refund their tuition fees and were left to look for another another college. When some students were unsuccessful, they were deported.

What also irked them was the indifference of the consultancy agency that sold to them the idea of earning enough to fund their own education. The students also did not get any assistance from Kirsten, when they faced challenges of living in the UK.

“Wala man lang letter from Kirsten saying na ito ang gagawin at mag-enrol kayo sa isang school which is an affiliate. We did not receive any assistance from them, to think na 3 buwan pa lang naman kami sa England,” said Amelig.

She further explained: “Kung kamag-anak mo at anak mo ang pinapunta mo dito para mag-struggle, I doubt kung papupuntahin mo pa siya. Kunsiyensya na lang. May mga estudyante na nagbayad ng napakalaki. Baka binenta pa ang lahat ng ari-arian sa Pilipinas. Tapos maghihirap sila dito.”

Kirsten denies allegations

In a phone interview with ABS-CBN News Manila, Kirsten denied all the allegations.

Maridee Basco, president of Kirsten, said they neither duped the students nor promised them work.

“Hiindi po kami nanloloko. We are very transparent here. Lagi nila akong kaharap, lagi nila akong nakakausap. May meeting every time na may issue sa UK. Nung naipit file nila sa embassy for 10 months, bakit di sila nagreklamo na linuloko sila? Bakit nung may 3-year visa, saka sila magco-complain? If you are not satisfied, don't go to UK. Dito pa lang, stop na,” Basco said.

She reiterated that Kirsten did not promise work.

“Di po ako nangangako ng trabaho. Hindi ito work-permit. Itong sinasabing trabaho ay pinaka-OJT with pay sa mga carehomes. Nagkataon na may bayad ito based on their rate,” she said.

Basco also explained that Kirsten charged different fees for students, but did not say if the tuition was included in the payment.

“Nag-increase po, nagbayad na sila $3,000, merong $4,000. After last year, na-inform magdadala ng additional because the course is different,” said Basco.

The students insisted that Kirsten made them believe that the $7,000 fees cover part of their tuition in the UK college.

Regarding assistance to students in the UK, Kristen was adamant that it is the responsibility of the trainer and the UK college.

Some students believe Kirsten and the UK college colluded to cover up the lapses of each other.

“Malaki ang posibilidad na may sabwatan sila kasi ang eskuwelan nagkukunwari na wala silang alam sa binayaran. Kasi yung mga binayaran namin na supposed to be for tuition fee, wala naman daw nakarating sa eskuwelahan,” said John.

UK College defends itself

Kirsten facilitated the UK visas of the Filipino students for a 3-year Level 3 National Certificate Care and Management course under Quality Care Solutions Ltd or Wave Training Ltd.

When contacted by ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau, Wave Training categorically denied that there is any collusion with Kirsten in providing "false hopes" or advertisement as the students alleged.

Gail Porter, Interim General Manager of Wave Training Limited explained in a letter that "there is not, and never has been any collusion between Wave and Kirsten in an attempt to cover up the 'wrong information'.”

Porter also explained that the students signed an agreement that outlines the responsibilities and obligations of each party.

“All learners were issued with details of the course and requirements in their visa letters and have signed a Learners' Agreement. This agreement in brief sets out the level of tuition fees payable to Wave and the expected behaviors of each student. Copies of the agreements were supplied to Kirsten and some students signed the Learners Agreement before leaving the Philippines,” said Porter.

Porter also added: ‘We are not privy to the exact detail of Kirsten’s communication with each individual student. When examples of false information have been brought to our attention we have immediately responded to agents to address this."

The company likewise clarified that it did not shirk from its responsibilities to the students in making them aware of the fees they needed to pay, particularly tuition fees.

‘We at Wave did our utmost to ensure that all students were aware, even before they left the Philippines, that there would be tuition fees to pay to the college and indeed what the payments would be. These overseas tuition fees charged by Wave are between £2000 - £6000 per year, less than fees charged by other colleges/universities,” said Porter.

Because of the complaints against Kirsten received by Wave, the college is not dealing with Kirsten in the future.

“Notice was previously served to Kirsten of our intention to discontinue working with them following the enrolment of the final batch of students by email and by letter earlier in 2011,” stated Porter.

Angry students

The students are still angry because they believe they have been duped.

John, on behalf of fellow students at Birmingham, has a message for Kirsten: “Tigilan na niya ang panloloko niya. Kasi sa puntong ito bisto na siya. Siya na ang sinungaling, siya pa yung mayabang”.

Amelig is appealing to Filipino students to delay their plans to study and work in the UK, and wait for the UK economy to improve.

“It’s too expensive here at naka-student visa ka lang. First thing, you don’t have work. Kahit mga British citizen hirap kumuha ng 35 hours of work sa sarili nilang bansa, so how much more ang foreigners,” she said. - ABS CBN:

Pinoy feeds the Homeless in Austria

Hello Phillippines - Tue, October 4, 2011 11:41 PM

Instead of putting a part of his earnings during the past year into some other things, he choose to gather his resources in order to feed the homeless people in Vienna.

On Christmas Eve, Wilson, together some Pinoy volunteers – will take time to prepare the ingredients needed for the charity work.
During the past years, almost 200 homeless, most of them men, appreciate exotic food that the Pinoys prepared. Wilson has been preparing pansit (noodles), fried rice and fried chicken for the „Obdachlosen“.

Wilson has already been doing this charity work for the past 4 years.
Wilson commented: “Six years ago, pagkatapos ng Christmas party namin sa bahay, napansin ko na napakaraming sobrang pagkain (after our Christmas party, I noticed we had a lot of left-overs). I thought of bringing these to the train station, where the “sandler” (homeless) are staying. Afterwards, I learned that there is a CARITAS House in Vienna, where homeless could temporarily stay.”
Wilson did not only cook for the homeless. He was able to gather from generous donors Christmas presents for them, too. Packs of cigarettes, soaps, shampoos, tissue papers, chocolates, toothbrush and toothpaste and other necessities were distributed to the delight of the homeless.
Wilson added: “In addition to foods, we are also giving these people some gifts, kasi wala naman silang pamilya na magbigay sa kanila ng regalo (since they no family who would give them gifts). At least through these little and simple gifts, ay mabubuksan silang regalo today or this Christmas (they will open gifts today or this Christmas).”
Lorna Titgemeyer, former Chairman of the Council of Filipino Associations in Austria is also helping Wilson in this charity effort.
She said: “Indeed, it is very easy to contribute material things. Though I am very much convinced that when one contributes time and effort, the worth is much more. That is why, when Wilson asked me to help him, I immediately answered him yes.”
The homeless beneficiaries were very much grateful for the time and effort given by the Filipinos. They appreciated very much their willingness and dedication to help even though they are immigrants here.

This charitable action initiated by Wilson seven years ago has become a tradition for him. He regards these people his family, in a sense that he himself has no home and family here. He said he was just lucky enough to obtain a good job at the UN and could do something worthwhile for the homeless.
Wilson said, “I do this as my personal commitment. Christmas is about giving or sharing. Now, I don’t have my family here, so I also said to my friends, I want to celebrate Christmas with those people with no families at all, like me. So I spend Christmas with the homeless as well.”

The Young Man’s Get-Rich Plan

Contrary to what Kanye West says, most women aren’t gold diggers. But your empty wallet doesn’t exactly make you a catch.

A new study from Princeton University found that men who lack material wealth—particularly a car, a house, and financial assets like mutual funds—are less likely to get married than guys who are more fiscally fit. That’s because doing grown-up things, like making your car payments on time, tells women that you’re responsible enough to raise a family, and because both having a wedding and feeding a baby simply require a hefty reserve of cash, writes study author Daniel Schneider, a Ph.D. candidate at Princeton.

Of course, a down economy means it’s harder than ever for guys to get their post-college financial life in order. But here’s how an eligible bachelor can make the most of what he’s earning and keep his personal wealth in the black.

1. Pay Off Your Credit Cards
According to student loan giant Sallie Mae, half the undergrads in America had a credit card in 2008, up from 32 percent in 2000. “Since the big banks are tight-fisted with loans in the current economy, pay off your credit card balance with a lower-interest loan from a small community bank or credit union, ” says Karen Blumenthal, author of The Wall Street Journal Guide to Starting Your Financial Life. Find a credit union near you by searching the National Credit Union Administration.

2. Start an IRA
Though your 60s might seem like a far way off, it’s smart to start building for your retirement as soon as you land a job out of college. A Roth IRA lets you invest without having to pay a capital gains tax when you withdraw the money, and the big fees you’d have to pay for a pre-retirement withdrawal will keep you from dipping into your savings. Plus, “many inexpensive mutual funds will waive the minimum [fee] if you commit to investing a little each month, even if it’s only $50,” says Blumenthal. Look for a fund with a mix of around 60 percent stocks and 40 percent bonds to help cushion the volatile market.

3. Fine-Tune Your Cell Phone Plan
Want to find some extra cash? Websites like Validas and Billshrink analyze how you use your phone to help determine if you’re overspending on an unlimited data plan or should upgrade your text message limit. “Even if you’re in the middle of your contract, you can upgrade or downgrade your carrier’s plan without any penalties,” Blumenthal says.

4. Cut Excess Spending
You shouldn’t be staring at a single-digit checking account balance every month wondering, “Where did all my money go?” Many banks now let you use their websites to sort purchases made each month into categories like “food,” “utilities,” and “entertainment.” “If your bank doesn’t have that setup, you can sign up for a site like Mint.com that analyzes your spending for you,” says Blumenthal. Use the graphs to see if you really want the biggest slice of your paycheck buying HBO and Netflix and Hulu Plus and NFL Sunday Ticket. Spend Sundays at your buddy’s place instead—your wallet will thank you later.-Mens Health News:

UK Requirements for Filipino Job Applicants

This was revealed by recruitment consultant Emmanuel Geslani said Filipino professionals like scientists, environmental specialists, information technology and telecoms specialists, health care workers, teachers, marketing executives, and social care personnel “are still in the wanted list” in the UK. But he said the entry of qualified applicants into the Kingdom would depend on the points-based system introduced by its Borders and Immigration System in 2008. It requires that overseas nationals wanting to enter the UK undergo a managed immigration program with a five-tier system.

“This means depending on the category of (the) visa, you will be permitted to live and work in the UK, seek and undertake employment, establish a business, invests or be self-employed,” he said.

Under the Tier 1 permit system, highly skilled individuals like engineers, information technology specialists, and marketing professionals would not be required to have job offers before filing for an application to enter the UK.

“It is your credentials that are assessed and if you have 75 points accumulated then you are qualified to apply for a Tier 1 visa. Points are based on age, experience, academic degrees like PhDs or Masters, and present income of from 18,000 to 40,000 British pounds,” he said.

He added that the worker must be proficient in the English language and can support himself or herself and any dependents without using public funds.

If an applicant is successful, he or she would have the right to immigrate to the Kingdom and have full and free access to the UK employment market.

Under Tier 2, teachers, nurses, and engineers may qualify. But under this category, a job offer or a sponsor registered with the UK Border Agency is necessary to process the application.

Applicants under this should have a minimum of 70 points in skills assessment and must have a score of 7.0 in the International English Language Testing System. A job in the shortage occupation list, qualifications like Bachelor, Masters, and PhD degrees, and income also gain them additional points.

Geslani said Tier 2 visas would offer successful applicants a “potential route” for a permanent settlement in the UK, wherein they can become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and a path to British citizenship after five years.

Dependents like spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner and/or dependent children below 18 would also be allowed to join the worker as long as he or she is capable of supporting them.

On the other hand, low-skilled workers or seasonal types of work would fall under Tier 3 while international games participants, church workers, and charity volunteer fall under Tier 5. Visas for both categories only allow a limited period of stay.

Tier 4 visas are likewise not intended as a route to residency in the UK or British naturalization but it would provide qualified applicants the possibility of transferring to a work permit under Tier 2.

“The fastest route available for Filipino health care workers, dentists, pharmacists, HRM graduates who want to reach the UK is through the Tier 4 student visa category, which requires the educational institution to accept the student,” said Geslani.

Under the student work program introduced by international job consultancies, more than 4,000 Filipinos have been granted student visas since 2008.

The UK Border Agency has, meanwhile, said that it will intensify its drive against fraudulent visa applications in the Philippines.

HIRAP NG MARINO

By Nepthali Paraiso

Sa aming paglalayag sa malayong dagat
Parang nangawala mga tao sa barko
Dahil ba sa lakas, ng along sumasambulat
Sa aming barko, ang mga tao’y nahihilo

Lumabas ng Scotland, panaho’y ‘di kay inam
At sa pagdating ng lugar, agad masimulan
Kaya naman lahat kami’y, animo’y nagkasakit
Nagsusuka, nahihilo, nagtulog sa kanya kanyang kwarto

Kaya’t inyong mapapapansin sa messhall namin
Sobrang daming pagkain, kakonti lang ng kumain
Garlic bread at spaghetti na aking kinain
Sa kinahapunan ay isinuka rin

Buti pa ang iba’y may panahong umidlip
Di ko naman maiwanan, itong opisinang pinagbilinan
Maging ang aking kwarto, ngayo’y may kasama na ako
Siyang natutulog at panggabi sa trabaho

Hindi na ko kumain, ng gabing iyon
Di mapalagay, hirap ang katawan
Kailangan ng lakas, kailangang lumaban
Kumain ng biscuit, konting ubas at tubig

Kaya’t ako’y dumalangin, kami’y pagpalain
Gabay at kalakasan, sa kinabukasan ay taglay
Panahon ay maging maayos, maging ang karagatan
Matapos ang proyekto ng walang peligro

Countries Filipinos Can Visit Without a Tourist Visa

Countries in Asia
Country No. of days allowed Official Webpage Embassy Phone Numbers in the Philippines
Brunei Up to 14 days none found +63-2-816-2836
+63-2-816-2837
Cambodia Up to 21 days Homepage
+63-2-818-9981
+63-2-810-1896
Hong Kong Up to 14 days Visa requirement page (See Table)
Indonesia Up to 30 days Visa exemption page
+63-2-892-5061
Israel Up to 90 days Visa exemption PDF
+63-2-894-0441
+63-2-894-0443
Laos Up to 30 days Exemption table
+63-2-852-5759
+63-2-852-5979
Macau Up to 30 days Visa free countries
webmaster@macau-embassy.org (US)
Malaysia Up to 30 days Requirement table
(632) 864 0761 To 68
Mongolia Up to 21 days List of countries with no visa
esyam@mongolianembassy.us
Singapore Up to 30 days Philippines is not listed in the countries requiring entry visa
63-(2)-856 9922
Thailand Up to 30 days Visa-fee exemptions page
63-(2)-815-4221
Vietnam Up to 21 days Visa exemption page
63-(2)-525 283763-(2)-521 6843
Countries in South America
Country No. of days allowed Official Webpage Embassy Phone Numbers in the Philippines
Bolivia
Up to 30 days Info page (Spanish)
None
Brazil 90 days Exemption List
+63-2-845-3651
+63-2-845-3654
+63-2-845-3655
+63-2-845-3662
+63-2-845-3668
+63-917-574-4513
Colombia Up to 90 days List of exempted countries (Filipinas)
+63-2-911-3101
Ecuador 90 days Embassy in US homepage
+63-2-8700-100
Peru Up to 183 days See Filipinas
+63-2-813-8731
+63-2-813-8732
+63-2-813-8733
Suriname Up to 90 days Check the list at the bottom
esuriname@covad.net (US)
Countries in Africa
Country No. of days allowed Official Webpage Embassy Phone Numbers in the Philippines
Morocco Up to 90 days Visa application page(see countries that do no need a visa) Consulate Office+63-8191686
+63-8866178
+63-8896170
+63-8896181
Saint Helena Up to 90 days none found was@minbuza.nl (US)
Seychelles Up to 30 days US website
63-(2)-631-6075
Tuvalu Up to 90 days Consulate of Tuvalu on Singapore
tuvalu@onecommonwealth.org (US)

Countries in North America
Country No. of days allowed Official Webpage Embassy Phone Numbers in the Philippines
Costa Rica Up to 30 days Country list (click Philippines)
+63-2-818-6740
+63-2-816-7851
Haiti Up to 90 days Embassy of Haiti in US
embassy@haiti.org (US)
Saint Vincent Grenadines Up to 30 days Website
mail@embsvg.com (US)
Country in Europe
Country No. of days allowed Official Webpage Embassy Phone Numbers in the Philippines
Kosovo Unlimited for valid passport Site of embassy in the US
embassy.usa@ks-gov.net (US)
Countries in Oceania
Country No. of days allowed Official Webpage Embassy Phone Numbers in the Philippines
Fiji Up to 120 days Visitor visa page (see exemptions) +852-375-1618 (Hong Kong)
Micronesia Up to 21 days Country list of requirements
(202) 223-4383 (US)
Nauru Up to 30 days none found none found
Niue Up to 30 days none found none found
Palau Up to 30 days US embassy website
+63-2-817-9666
Pitcairn Islands Up to 14 days (entry permit of $30) Information
admin@pitcairn.gov.pn (New Zealand)
Samoa Up to 60 days none found no contact info found
Tuvalu Up to 90 days Consulate of Tuvalu on Singapore
tuvalu@onecommonwealth.org (US)

Filipino caregivers protest new immigration law in UK

Filipino caregivers protest new immigration law in UK
HP - Tue, October 25, 2011 8:07 PM

Manila (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN) - Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the United Kingdom met several British lawmakers last week to protest a new immigration law that would disallow thousands of lowly paid migrant caregivers from settling in the UK after five years of work.
At the three-hour meeting at the House of Commons at Westminster in London, OFWs led by the Kanlugan Alliance of Filipino Organizations, relayed to Members of Parliament their concerns about a new policy by the UK Border Agency not to renew visas for anyone who was not being paid the minimum hourly rate of 7.02 pounds (about P486) set for senior care workers.
"The UK will need skilled migrant care workers for the foreseeable future. Skilled migrant care workers are hardworking families. Settlement is one of the main reasons why they come to Britain. It's unfair to change immigration rules for people already settled who've planned for their lives. Salary level should not determine who settles," Kanlungan said in a statement.
Kanlungan leaders and representatives from other groups such as the Migrant Rights Network and the Unison also met with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Migration.
The OFWs said the new policy was discriminatory because visas had already been issued to other migrant workers who are paid lower rates and who had worked legally for five years in the UK.
Kanlungan project staff Jamima Fagta, in an email to the Inquirer from London, said two caregivers, Lourdes Dizon Somera and Gundelina Ramirez shared their difficulties in obtaining their Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) document, which would allow them to live in the UK after five years of work.
The two explained to lawmakers how immigration rules affect them and their families, their work and the community as a whole.
Somera, who went to the UK five years ago to work and support her family and her younger siblings back home, said she was "devastated" when her application for ILR was rejected.
Somera also recounted how she had come to love her work of caring for her wards, since she is an orphan. "It is a mixture of joy and hard work being a caregiver...I have personal empathy with them so it is fulfilling when I deliver the care...It is as if I am caring of my own parents."
If she fails to get her ILR, Somera would have to leave UK, together with her two-year old son, who was born in London.
Fagta said the audience was "moved" by the OFWs' personal stories, adding, "If we were only given ample time, all of the senior caregivers in that room could have shared the same agony."
The OFWs, she said, appealed to the MPs to hold a parliament debate on the matter.
"The response was positive but we need to work together to achieve this," Fagta said. - Yahoo News:

Paghihintay

created on 15-Oct-2011 a.m.


Nagsimula na namang mag build-up ang alon at muli na namang maghihintay hanggang sa ito’y humupa at muling magtrabaho ang crew para mailagak sa seabed ang umbilicals... ito ang panahon na kung saan sa panig ng project personnel ay walang masyadong ginagawa... ang mahirap pa nito wala ring internet communication, hays nakakabagot, nakakapagod din ang walang ginagawa, natapos ko na ang daily project report, na update ko na ang Monthly Timesheet, na draft ko na ang minutes of meeting, nag check na ko ng mga incoming emails, hindi naman ako makagawa ng daily news dahil nga wala akong mapagkukunan at walang internet connection, nakatingin sa TV monitor ng galaw ng ROV, siguro nga mag daydreaming na lang ako, thinking what should I become after 5 years from now... what other plans I need to accomplish and where I get the provisions for my future dreams... ganon naman talaga tayo pag nag-iisa pumapasok sa isip natin ang mga bagay bagay patungkol sa ating buhay... ano bang gusto nating gawin, ano bang dapat nating marating at abutin? ... at habang sa pagninilay-nilay mo ay may darating na istorbo haha bigla ka na lang ma black-out at taranta kung ano man ang hinahanap nila... may 20 minuto pa pala ako bago pumanhik para sa morning meeting at syempre gawin ko na ang opportunity para tapusin ang isang artikulong ito... paghihintay... paghihintay sa trabahong gagawin... marami na rin tayong naranasang paghihihintay... ang iba naghihintay sa kapalarang darating... bigla akong napatingin sa labas dahil sa sinag ng araw... now pa lang nagliliwanag dito sa gitna ng north sea at nakita ko na rin ang magandang araw na aking hinihintay... ang pagliliwanag ng kapaligiran... natapos na kasi ang summer time dito sa UK at ngayon ay matagal na ring makakatulog ang mga manok dahil sa haba ng dilim unlike sa summertime na kung saan ay 3 oras lang ang dilim... kakagat ang dilim bago maghatinggabi at muling liliwanag ng alas-tres ng umaga kaya laging puyat ang mga manok... so ngayon nakakabawi na siguro sila hehe... panhik muna ko saglit sa taas at kailangan kong gumawa ng minutes of meeting at magpapirma sa mga amo para sa Daily Project Report...


Saglit lang naman at natapos din ang meeting informing for the project updates and weather and some hazobs and orcas. After that I need to email the MOM and DPR then free na naman ako... siguro nga dahil sa hindi ganon kabigat ang trabaho ko kaya pakiramdam ko lagi akong busog... hindi ako pinagpapawisan dito and if I’m not using the gym malamang sakit ang aabutin ko, I need to have some exercise kaya minsan sinasabayan ko na lang ung exercise sa morning TV show and doing 30 push ups to make me alive and alert and enthusiastic! Minsan kainggit din ang other pinoys who work as Steward, AB Crane Operators kasi nga marami silang work at hindi nauubusan. Sa mga steward they need to change the cabins pillows and towel, cleaning the toilet and rooms. After that they need to help in the galley to prepare foods for the meals, magtapon ng basura at maglinis ng mga gamit... ayun kaya pinagpapawisan sila... minsan nakakainggit but then I’m so blessed compare to my work as Project Admin. Ang mga AB’s and motorman busy sila sa deck, cleaning and other works na inuutos ng Captain and Chief Officer kaya lagi sila sa labas exposed sa lamig at ulan at init... that’s the reason why I’m always thankful kay Lord! Ang pasasalamat ko ay gayon na lamang dahil nga sa nature ng work ko dito. Minsan nagagalit ang mga amo ko pag lumalabas ako at tumutulong para bang nakapako lang ako sa apat na sulok ng room ko attending for the calls and other needs ng Construction Manager and Project engineer e sometimes wala naman silang pinagagawa kaya naman I always ask them if they need coffee or tea... ang galing ano po? That was a privilege God has given me. Paghihintay... paghihintay sa pagpapala na ibibigay nya sa atin... so just wait... wait for the Lord’s timing...

daily strength 14 October 2011

Using social enterprise to help Philippine's poorest - Channel NewsAsia

MANILA: A third of the Philippines' population lives in poverty, and encouraging social entrepreneurship could be one solution to improving their lot.

Three years ago, Ms Guia De Vera could hardly make ends meet.

Her husband was earning US$8 a day working as a driver, and it wasn't enough to feed her five children.

Their lives changed when she became a weaver at GKonomics.

Now, not only is she able to provide for her family, she even has extra cash for savings.

Ms De Vera said: "It was very hard to budget my husband's meagre salary. But now, things have changed. Before, we did not have money to go out. Now, every Sunday, we have extra money to go to the mall with my family."

Ms De Vera is one of 30 weavers employed by GKonomics, a non-government organisation that has started various social enterprises in impoverished communities.

Ms Pinky Poe, finance director at GKonomics said: "In our country, all the development has really left a huge majority of the population behind... traditional business models do not seem to be working for everybody.

"Normal business planning focuses on profit maximisation. Here, business planning is maximising labor and still being profitable. That's where the redefinition comes."

Social enterprises like this are now helping to improve the lives of millions of poor Filipinos. That is why government and private institutions are now working together to help create more social enterprises that will not only empower the poor but help improve the country's economy as well.

GKonomics' community of weavers has evolved into a US$35,000 enterprise.

Their products are sold in many countries, including the fashion capital of Paris.

Each weaver can earn as much as US$115 a week.

"We pay way higher than normal rates. Seventy-five per cent of our selling price goes to direct labour.

"We are always asking ourselves how we can increase the direct labour employment. People ask us, 'why don't you get a cutting machine and just rush the cutting?'. But we want to hire four people rather than buy a cutting machine," said Ms Poe.

Organisations like GKonomics show how social enterprise can help lift people out of poverty.

With 30 million Filipinos living below the poverty line, many hope the government will give tax incentives to entice more people to engage in business ventures that help the poor.

- CNA/cc

Paumanhin...

ang blog po ay pansamantalang hindi na update dahil sa kawalan ng internet sa aming barko at ang inyong lingkod ay nagbakasyon ng 2 weeks sa Pilipinas at naging busy sa maraming lakarin...

Muli tayong magsasama sama sa mga balitaan, kwentuhan at kung ano ano pa...

Maraming Salamat!
Pinoy

I'm In Love!

Yeah it is true, kung sino pa ang inaayawan mo ay magugustuhan mo rin in the end… love at first sight? No! hindi siguro hehe, the first time when I met you, though maganda ka rin naman but then pinahirapan mo ko… ganon ba talaga sa unang pagkikita, may kasamang pahirapan then magugustuhan mo rin ako? I was thought si BA though mayaman e mukhang gusgusin, parang hindi naglilinis ang dumi dumi ng pamamahay, untidy nya at kuripot, gutom ang aabutin ko sa kanya .. d n nga masarap magluto tapos napaka boring pang kasama! So when the time we see each other, lagi kang nakangiti tuloy nabighani mo ako especially when you gave me that towel, hmmm… then when you served me that food, Wow! sarap mo palang magluto! yan pa naman ang gustong gusto ko sa isang tao, ung magaling magluto kasi masarap akong kumain… nakakatuwa nga e… naalala mo ba ung naiwan ko hahaha kasi naman… pero magaling ka talaga lalo na ung promise mo ginawa mo and I was thankful dahil pinadala mo kinabukasan… thanks talaga and sana sunod sunod na ung pagkikita natin though maraming nagmamahal sa ‘yo basta ako masaya na ko na makasama ka kahit panandalian lamang… thank you ha!

daily strength - 9 October 2011

daily strength - 9 September 2011

daily strength - 8 September 2011

daily strength - 7 September 2011

daily strength - 6 September 2011

daily strength - 26 August 2011

daily strength - 25 August 2011

daily strength - 24 August 2011

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daily strength - 21 August 2011

daily strength - 20 August 2011

Money is not matter, still you can see the world...

I really have no idea when I entered into this kind of industry – Offshore/Maritime but still the same position as been before, Admin work. At first, I am hesitant to apply for the job opening back in Manila thru Phil. Transmarine Carriers, Inc. To make a long story short, now I’m here experiencing the beauty of God’s creation from the middle east and now employed at Technip UK which vessels sailed on North Sea and other parts of International waters . Of course before working at sea you have the opportunity to visit and see the country where the vessel is standing by or in some instances you will fly to the nearest heliport the vessel is working with. The opportunity to ride from your local transport to International airways to helicopter and onto the vessel. That’s it you are tired for a long journeys especially if your from Asian countries like Philippines.

From Edinburgh Scotland where we berthed we sail for 2 days in transit to Halden, Norway and after the long journey at sea we find the place Norway as a lovely and really fascinating place to go. As we enter the water border of Norway and Sweden you will find the huge pine trees and mountains and a lovely houses seaside. The place is so cool. As of this writing, I can’t wait to go out but due to instrict rules of the private port we berthed walking or bike riding is prohibited and you need to take a taxi from here to downtown. I hope in due time we may be able to go out from here or waiting for another time on demobilisation as we unload all the equipment that we used. You know I envy those seafarers who work at Cruise Ship specifically in Royal Carribbean International where they really see the world in over 260 worlwide destinations.
As they say, “Money matters, for you will be able to see the world,” which is applicable for the rich and famous, dignitaries, millionaires and the like. But thank God for the work I fit into and the opportunity to work in an offshore environment.

Money is not matters if you have a passion and longing to see the world. Just look for an opportunity to work with Maritime or Airline careers. Do you know that in a big cruise ship alone they employ more than thousands of crew? From galley workers to information/desk/service dept. to casino, medical and IT dept. bar, recreation, deck, engine, hotel crews to name a few. Seeing the world will not cause you a lot of money, but exciting career and the opportunity to work and mingle with different people around the world. So the next time you want to change for a career why don’t try for something you yourself can see the world and experienced the high paying job.

daily strength - 19 August 2011

daily strength - 18 August 2011

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daily strength - 11 August 2011

Opportunities for Skilled Professionals

RECEIVING THE OVERFLOW

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“...we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance”
(Psalm 66:12, NIV)



TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
Friend, no matter what your circumstances may look like today, God’s plan is to bring you through to a place of abundance. He wants you to have an abundance of peace, an abundance of joy, an abundance of resources — He wants you to overflow with His blessings so that you can be a blessing to the people around you.

One thing I’ve learned is that if you want to live in the overflow of God’s blessings, you have to have an attitude to receive the overflow. Remember, as a believer in Jesus, you are a child of the Most High God. Royal blood is flowing through your veins. You were not created to be average. You were not created to barely get by and drag through life. You have seeds of greatness on the inside. You are well able to do whatever God has called you to do!

Today, I encourage you to put your shoulders back, hold your head up high and start thinking like a victor. And when you’re a victor, you know that any adversity in your life is not permanent, it’s temporary. Have the attitude to receive the overflow of God’s abundance. Keep believing and keep expecting because it’s just a matter of time until He turns things around in your favor!



A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Heavenly Father, today I open my mind and heart to You. I choose to believe that You have a good plan for me. By faith today, I receive the blessings You have for me so that I can be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

daily strength - 9 August 2011

daily strength - 8 August 2011

daily strength - 7 August 2011

daily strength - 6 August 2011

ANG PUERTO

Dito sa Puerto kay daming barko
Nakakatuwang pagmasdan kung ika’y bago lamang
Ibat-ibang laki at ibat-ibang kulay
Sa dagat ay kay gandang pagmasdan

Ba’t ba ako lamang ang tanging nagagandahan
O dahil pagod lamang ang mga tauhan
Sa maghapong pagtatrabaho sa bagong proyekto
Kaya’t sandali lamang, kami dito sa Puerto

Sa aking paglalakad maraming taong nasilayan
Dito sa Aberdeen sentro ito ng komersyo
Ngunit aking napansin pagkakaiba sa Edinburgh
Dito ay kulimlim at madaling dumilim

Sa Edinburgh na mas maganda at historical pa
Laging may araw, lugar ay kay inam
Ngunit ang puerto rito tambayan ng barkong walang trabaho
Kaya’t ang makikita mo, lugar ay parang abandonado

daily strength - 5 August 2011

daily strength - 3 August 2011

daily strength - 2 August 2011

daily strength - 1 August 2011

I'M SO SORRY...

God is doing something and I learned from it. Now I realized how fool I am when I say God is deserting me, it is because of excessive complain and finding fault to our government rather than praying for them. For the past days, I’ve been reading the news about Filipino Worldwide – an e-news of Philippine Star (www.philstar.com) which caters the plight of Filipino Overseas workers around the World. The comment I always posted is quite sarcastic. In addition to President Aquino’s State of the Nation Address whereby nothing is discussed concerning the so-called ‘”Bayani”. With the circumstances arise on Filipinos abroad, I am, too often seemingly bitter for the action of our government when we talked about OFW’s. With the experiences I had in the past from Saudi Arabia to Qatar, Dubai and Europe’s I have seen many Filipinos who are victims of their employers and the recruiters. Due to poverty the need to go out of country to find greener pastures sometimes falls to be a victim of their fellow countrymen.

The fact that I created this blog is to awaken our government the need to create more jobs and program for the returning OFW’s. A page where you can find the truth behind those giant and 1st World countries, the recent crisis in the Middle East and the Europe’s debt crisis and the like which directly affecting Juan dela Cruz. So when I came to office yesterday morning for some reason I don’t know my hands are beginning to check the books on the shelves and found the booklet, “Daily Bread” and lead me to Day 78 entitled, “Thankful for Government?” That’s it, what God wants from me is to pray our government and not insisting nor trying to re-shape the world the way I think, speak and live. God words always lead us to a life that is pleasing to Him, a Christian life that can be a model to others, a life that is always thankful for no matter what.

It’s always easy to complain
And say that government’s unfair
But God’s word says we should give thanks
And lift our leaders up in prayer. - Hess

daily strength - 31 July 2011

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU, BUT...

In your life, have you experience the time were God seems desert you?
Last night, whilst contemplating my past days which seemingly no ideas, no wisdom, no poems, nothing and nothing comes in my head and that I’m beginning to ask the Lord, where is He?

In Hebrews 13:5 The Lord says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you...” but what I felt for this past days that I am all alone and that you left me and can’t find you. Seeking of you and found you on those pages of Psalms. Like Israelites you sometimes need to leave us for us to learn and realize how worthy you are. Wake up in the morning, inspired and while taking a bath the thoughts comes and remember that like mother who left their child only to learn to stand on their own and the teacher who left their students with study lesson and assignment. They are the ones who mold us, teach us to make a better person of the future.

So sometimes we need to be all alone for us to apply what we have learned but relying on the one, the Creator.

YOU HAVE THE ADVANTAGE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“...His favor is for a lifetime...”
(Psalm 30:5, AMP)



TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
One definition of the word “favor” is an advantage for success. When you put God first, when you obey His commands, you open the door for His favor — you have the advantage for success! Even if someone may have wronged you and it looks like they have the upper hand, even if it looks like things are never going to change, you need to keep reminding yourself, “I have an advantage. God is in control of my destiny. He’s fighting my battles for me. He is my vindicator. And it’s just a matter of time before things change in my favor.”

I love the scripture in Hebrews that says, “Don’t cast away your confidence.” One translation says, “...for payday is coming.” In the difficult times, you have to remind yourself that payday is on its way. God is a faithful God. If you’ll keep doing the right thing, honoring Him and expecting His favor, God has promised He will pay you back. He will restore everything in your life that the enemy has stolen so you can live the abundant life He has promised to you!



A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for Your grace, mercy and everlasting favor. I open my heart and mind to You and receive everything You have for me. Thank You for restoring and healing every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

daily strength - 30 July 2011

daily strength - 29 July 2011

CONSIDER YOUR GOD!

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“...with God all things are possible”
(Matthew 19:26, NIV)



TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria
I had a gentleman tell me not long ago that his business was very, very slow. It looked like he would go under. He owned a small manufacturing company with one main competitor in town, a national company that was bigger with more resources. With the economy down, it made it harder and harder for him to stay open. This man was flexible about what he should do next, but he really believed he was in the business God wanted him to be in. So, he kept praying, believing and hoping; and instead of considering his circumstances, he considered his God. And just when he thought he was going to have to close down, his main competitor had a change in leadership and direction and decided to pull out of this market. Now he’s breaking all kinds of records.

Friend, today I want to encourage you. If there’s something coming against you, consider your God. He has a way to meet every one of your needs. You may not be able to beat the competition in the natural, but God can simply remove the competition. He wants to give you His favor. He wants to give you the advantage for success. Trust Him and believe because with God, all things are possible.



A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father God, today I put my trust in You. I know that You are faithful and have good things in store for my future. Thank You for giving me patience to stand and see Your promises come to pass in every area of my life! In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen