Torch Blog

Blog Moved....

2008-08-23T18:46:00.004+11:00

Ei guys, I moved my blogs to this site --> http://web.mac.com/gotorch

We Need a Hero!!!

2008-08-21T07:27:00.005+11:00

Got this article of Nene Pimentel about Ninoy Aquino who was assassinated at the tarmac of Manila International Airport 25 years ago...

Ninoy Aquino: A hero for all seasons—Nene Pimentel


	OPINION

	It is the sum of his selfless deeds that gives meaning to August 21 as a celebratory occasion, to remind ourselves of the meaning of his life and especially of his epic death.

The great French dramatist Jean Anouilh (1910-87) incisively categorized human beings into two classes. He said:

“There are two races of beings. The masses teeming and happy -- common clay, if you like -- eating, breeding, working, counting their pennies; people who just live; ordinary people; xxx. And then there are the others -- the noble ones, the heroes. The ones you can quite well imagine lying shot, pale and tragic; one minute triumphant with a guard of honor, and the next being marched away between two gendarmes.”

I am sure that the Frenchman Anouilh had not met the Filipino Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Yet, he could have very well spoken those lines in reference to him.

Indeed, our people watched with awe the incredible feats of Ninoy, the Wunderkind, from the ‘50s at the start of his teenage life all the way to his mid-life. Then some 30 years later, in horror they witnessed TV footage and still pictures of Ninoy “lying shot, pale and tragic” on his arrival at the tarmac of the Manila International Airport.

To be more precise, the tragedy played out on August 21, 1983 at the Manila International Airport.

Under house arrest

On the afternoon of that day, I was in my study in my house in Cagayan de Oro where at the time I was under house arrest on charges of rebellion against the martial law administration.

The phone rang and the voice at the other end said that my friend, Ninoy, had just been shot dead at the tarmac of the Manila International Airport.

Although I had previously warned Ninoy about that tragic possibility should he come home from Boston where we met in 1982, now that it happened, the incident left me completely shattered and shocked beyond belief.

What a waste of talent, I told myself. I knew that Ninoy did not have to come home at the time or at all while martial law ruled the land.

Extra mile

But as the fates would have it, in 1983, three years after his heart surgery, he made public his decision to go home. His family and his friends in the US advised him not to do so. Even the wife of President Marcos said in the media that it was not advisable for Ninoy to come home because as she had put it bluntly he might be killed upon arrival.

The advice of his family and friends, notwithstanding, Ninoy came home. He said he wanted to walk the extra mile for peace in the land and convince President Marcos that it was time to end martial law and restore the country to its democratic moorings.

Freedom shot

But upon landing at the Manila International Airport, burly men, strutting with the harsh mien of unbridled authority went up the plane and brusquely hustled him down the steps of the plane’s ladder. Then, a shot rang out and seconds later, Ninoy was seen by his co-passengers lying down on the tarmac bruised and mortally wounded.

The shot reverberated throughout the country but instead of scaring the people with the awesome display of martial law power, it freed them from their lethargic acceptance of martial rule and roused them to a fever-pitch revulsion of it.

At Ninoy’s wake, thousands of people from all segments of society – the rich, the poor, men, women, and children – paid him their last respects. And 10 days later, more two million people walked 12 hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. beside his bier to escort him to his final resting place or watched from the sidewalks more in anger than in sadness at what they thought was a senseless sacrifice of the life of a man who was destined for greatness.

In 1986 or three years after Ninoy’s assassination, the people had enough of martial rule. And it was, now the turn of the executor of martial rule and his family – public and private – to leave the country and go into exile in Hawaii. Their leaving heralded the return of a democratic government to the land.

A hero made or born?

But was Ninoy a hero made or was he hero born?

The question may sound academic but it has a bearing on whether or not Ninoy deserves the accolades that he has been receiving from our people since 1986 when martial law was finally uprooted from the land.

Skeptics probably entertain the view that setting aside August 21 of every year is an example of an undue honor for the man who would be hero.

I beg to disagree. It is not the setting aside of August 21 to commemorate the day of Ninoy’s assassination every year that makes him a hero. To belabour the point, it is rather the sum of his selfless deeds that makes him so and gives meaning to August 21 as a celebratory occasion for the people to remind ourselves of the meaning of his life and especially of his epic death.

But to go back to the larger question of whether or not heroes are made or born, I am not too sure that there is a neat “either or” reply to it. At least, not in the case of Ninoy.

Heroic dimension

The supreme sacrifice of Ninoy presented Philippine society with a heroic dimension that it sorely needed and at the time when we needed it most.

For months before his assassination, foreign wags had started to air scurrilous statements that the Philippines was “a nation of 60 million cowards” who did not have the courage to stand up to one-man rule.

That observation, it must be said, was not true at all. There were people who fought the martial law regime in various ways – some peaceful, others violent. But it was the assassination of Ninoy that gave a nationally recognizable face to the heroic dimension of our society.

Despite its inherently evil connotations, Ninoy’s assassination - as the Fates had decreed it – was, thus, a good thing for the Philippine society as a whole.

For as the philosopher Jean Baudrillard asked, “What is a society without a heroic dimension?”

Ninoy Aquino offered his life to answer the question and in the process proved the skeptics wrong. He also showed that he was right along with those of us who believed in our people: that indeed, the Filipino was worth dying for.

----------
These are excerpts from the privilege speech of Sen. Nene Pimentel delivered on August 13, 2008.

Microwave Safe!!!

2008-08-18T18:08:00.008+11:00

Got this email from my Auntie and I wanna share it with you guys as an FYI...

This information is being circulated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center as well.

Please circulate to all you know; Cancer update

Johns Hopkins - Cancer News from Johns Hopkins

No plastic containers in micro

No water bottles in freezer.

No Plastic wrap in microwave.

A dioxin chemical causes cancer, especially breast cancer.

Dioxins are highly poisonous to the cells of our bodies. Don't freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as this releases dioxins from the plastic.

Recently, Edward Fujimoto, Wellness Program Manager at Castle Hospital , was on a TV program to explain this health hazard. He talked about dioxins and how bad they are for us.

He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwave using plastic containers...

This especially applies to foods that contain fat.

He said that the combination of fat, high heat, and plastics releases dioxin into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body...

Instead, he recommends using glass, such as Corning Ware, Pyrex or ceramic containers for heating food... You get the same results, only without the dioxin. So such things as TV dinners, instant ramen and soups, etc., should be removed from the container and heated in something else.

Paper isn't bad but you don't know what is in the paper. It's just safer to use tempered glass, Corning Ware, etc.

He reminded us that a while ago some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons...

Also, he pointed out that plastic wrap, such as Saran, is just as dangerous when placed over foods to be cooked in the microwave. As the food is nuked, the high heat causes poisonous toxins to actually melt out of the plastic wrap and drip into the food.

Cover food with a paper towel instead.

This is an article that should be sent

to anyone important in

your life!

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

Fake Facts in Beijing

2008-08-16T08:08:00.007+11:00

Spectacular fireworks, great display of singing talent and culture....Whadyoknow!!! All fakes?

Here are the facts:

Fireworks that were jaw dropping were computer generated....

56 Ethnic children from all parts of China were from the same one !!!

China admitted that the gurl who sang at the ceremony didn't actually sing live, she had it lip-synced...

Just imagine, this is the Olympics, not a business deal or anything, so now you get the grip of the NBN-ZTE & North Railway projects?

Kiko, my Idol...

2008-08-14T08:41:00.008+11:00

My youth was a blend of Rock `n Roll, grunge,rap and rnb... We would listen non-stop to Guns `n Roses, Motley Crew, Skid Row and many more.. And then the next day would be rap day with 2 live crew, mah man snoop dogg,`lil mc, and of course that Pump up the Jam song that makes you dance all nite long... But locally, it was mah main man FrancisM, all his songs we would play and sing with him during our high school days... Mga Kababayan and Cold Summer Nights, wow, up until now I listen to those songs once in a while....

The news I read this morning made me numb from head to foot... Kiko has been diagnosed with LEUKEMIA, and is asking for your help for blood donations, in any type or whatever platelets, he need this urgently...

You can donate blood to him at the lower ground of Medical City in the name of Francis Magalona...

Again, prayers can move mountains, I believe my IDOL could survive this....

`till next time, God Bless everybody!!!!

Torch c",)

What is Federalism?

2008-08-13T08:02:00.009+11:00

To have 11 states in the Philippines is quite, hmmm I dunno how to describe it but not amusing for me...

Here we go, Federalism is to have states within a state... Just like in Uncle Sam's country, they have states there that embodies certain laws different from other states within the United States... This is good in America because each state has its own income and we know that America is a powerhouse, they're rich and one state can really govern and handle their own problems and development... But in P.I.? hell no!!! Here's why, we can't barely have an income from our own national government much less from our own barrio, city or provincial government...

The question is, is it time for us to have a Federal government? For me not yet, maybe when we could see a considerable earnings in our GNP, a lower inflation rate, more jobs then maybe we could transition our government from one state to a Federal form which consists of several states as I've mentioned above...

Right now that the battle in North Cotabato between the Arm Forces of P.I and MILF for this Moro Juridical Entity has escalated, madame President is arguing that we need to go forward and have a Federal government, also known as or popularly known as CHA-CHA (Charter Change)...

Well, again, IMHO, leaders on whatever form of government each country has, are the ones who make a difference and can change the country towards development, just like what Lee Kuan Yew did in Singapore....

MG

2008-08-09T17:21:00.003+11:00

Our new angel, my brother's new baby boy, Mathew Gadiel Garcia Delica...

08-08-08

2008-08-08T08:05:00.005+11:00

Am not into chinese feng shui or lucky charm or anything, like wearing red on Mondays for good luck is so not me...But don't get me wrong, this is just me and I have nothing against them or those who practice or follow these things.... I just mentioned this because today, as they say is one luckiest day for the chinese or again for those who believe in them; today is triple 8, August 8, 2008... If number 8 is lucky what more if you have them in threes...

One significant thing about today is the addition of another angel to our family... My sis-in law is expecting a healthy boy today via a CS operation... This baby is one lucky guy because he is the 8th grandchild of my parents and having 8-8-08 as his birthday, it means 4 eights, 4 times luckier... But I believe every child is a blessing and lucky as well...

Oh, today is the opening of the Olympics, go for the gold guys, sana makasungkit na tayo ng ginto...

`till next time, cheers to the good life....

Torch c",)

Globe Iphone 3G Unleashed!!!

2008-08-07T09:24:00.007+11:00

I dunno how many but am sure a lot of you guys are waiting for the D-day of GLobe's Iphone 3g launching...

Now it's official, August 22, 2008 will be the release date of this phone they called JESUS PHONE...

Click on the image below to view their plans...

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

7 Secrets of Happy Marriage!!!!

2008-08-06T09:22:00.005+11:00

With our ever changing lifestyle, you can't help but wonder, how could families keep it together... Especially husbands and wives, because just like me, am overseas and how can you keep the love alive as they say... Well, if you gonna ask me, I still don't know, am no love guru but one thing is for sure, sense of humor would definitely douse a heated argument...

Chance upon this SITE that most likely would enlighten us more about this issue...

1. Communicate. It's important that you keep the lines of communication open. Especially when things go wrong. There are so many outside influences that can affect a marriage -- jobs, family, friends, hobbies, education, church. If you're suddenly not being able to spend time together, or you're fighting about money, it's especially important to talk about what's going on.

2. Listen. It's a sad fact that we are often more polite to strangers than we are to the people we love the most. If your spouse is trying to talk to you, whether it's to find out what you want for dinner, to tell you about their day, or to discuss a problem in your marriage, give them the same courtesy you'd give a complete stranger, and LISTEN! Don't try to finish their sentences, don't try to solve their problems, and don't ever say, "I told you so!"

Here's an especially apt poem, written by poet Ogden Nash:

To keep your marriage brimming,
With love in the wedding cup,
Whenever you’re wrong, admit it;
Whenever you’re right, shut up.

    3. Create rituals and family traditions. Every successful couple has their own private rituals - things they do that has a special meaning just to them. So whether it's getting your spouse coffee every morning, a special touch that means "I love you", or creating couple signals for "Let's get out of here, or "No, I don't want to buy a timeshare for $95,000!" find your own. Remember some of your favorite childhood family traditions, and incorporate them or start new ones in your own couple. Some day, you'll look back on each time as a treasured memory.

    4. Go on a date. Couples who have been together for thirty, forty and even fifty years or more say that one of the things that has kept their marriage strong is going out on a "date" with their spouse on a regular basis. If money is tight, try taking a walk together, going to a dollar movie, or even to a drive-in. Spending quality "couple-time" helps to reinforce the special feelings that made you fall in love with each other in the first place.

    5. Agree on money matters early. Amazingly, many couples never discuss money except in the most superficial ways until after they're married. One of the leading causes of arguments in marriages is because of a difference in how money is handled. Before you walk down the isle, discuss your feelings about things like credit, paying bills and saving money. Talk about how you will pay expenses, and who will handle the money. Finding out after the fact that you have major differences is only going to lead to long term problems.

    6. Love and Respect. No matter what happens outside of your marriage, it's vital that you and your spouse always treat each other with love and respect. There are some simple rules that have worked for couples for the last 80 years that still apply today. They include: Never go to bed angry. Kiss each other every time you come home, or before going out. Say "I love you" every single day. Mind your manners, and say "Please" and "Thank-you." Do something for the one you love every day. Just because. Occasionally write love letters to each other. Laugh at his/her jokes, no matter how bad they are, or how often you've heard them. Don't sweat the little things. Try something new once in a while.

    7. Maintain a commitment to your marriage. This can be especially difficult today, but it's important that you put your marriage first. If you're committed to making your marriage a success, and you know that your partner shares your commitment, there's nothing that the two of you can't accomplish.

     And you'll be one of the lucky few that have a truly happy marriage!

`till next time, keep this love alive!!!

Torch c",)

Remittance Petition!!!

2008-08-03T09:28:00.007+11:00

Fellow OFW's, this one's for you...

With the rising cost of about everything in the world we need to do something to alleviate the sufferings we're having right now... Migrante International took a step forward by pursuing the online petition to remove the charges on taxes by the government/banks for our monthly remittances...

Just imagine for every billion dollars remitted monthly, the government tends to earn a whopping $1.5m or P62M, wow, that is huge. What about the charges from banks, for every $200 remittance sent monthly, $15-$22 is charged as service fee. For 10 million OFWs sending remittances, banks earn an stupefying $1B every month."

So guys, please go to the petition site and help make a difference...

http://www.petitiononline.com/Ibasura/

Macbook Touch!!!

2008-08-02T09:53:00.004+11:00

Just imagine your ipod(touch) just getting bigger but you could still fiddle with it and most importantly, compute(because it's a computer) more than what you've asked for...

The next release of Macbook computers will incorporate the touch and gestures technology even more than their previous editions... Originally for Iphone and Ipod Touch, It was first experienced with Macbook Air and then with the release of 2nd generation Macbook Pro on their Laptop devices... Release date according to speculations would be end of the year or early next year...

Neways, do you remember Apple Newton back in the old days? Did you watch Steven Seagal's Under Siege 2 film? He used Newton there and experts are saying that now is the time for the second coming of Apple Newton 2... I thought Iphone was the second coming of Newton, hehehehehe.....

I had a previous blog `bout this, check this out --> Mac in 2010

See and enjoy, you might wanna replace your Windozed PC with a Mac...

Follow this link for a much better explanation --> GIZMODO

Attention GUYS!!!

2008-07-30T17:34:00.005+11:00

This is an alarming news...

Based on a study at Harvard School of Public Health, soy reduces macho grande's sperm count... Soy has this content that acts like estrogen in women, wow, does it make guys feminine also? How `bout kids? Nyikes....

More info here --> SOY

A New Threat to Google!!!

2008-07-29T09:23:00.005+11:00

While Microsoft and Yahoo can't come into terms with their reported merger, there's a new threat to Google in the search engine business...

Called ironically Cuil (pronounced COOL), 3 former google employees formed a new company that promises 120 billions of web pages or links that they say is 3 times more than google has.. Hmmm let's see how this new search engine keep up with Google in the next few months to come...

Try it now --> www.cuil.com

GMA's SONA!!!

2008-07-28T09:20:00.005+11:00

Today will mark the 8th State of the Nation Address of Pres. GMA... Ok, fine we are immune to lies of your government but what bothers me this morning is the suspension of classes in Manila... You know what is the reason? Bagyo daw... Igme the latest tropical storm in P.I. is leaving and currently in Batanes but Defense chief Sec. Teodoro said that according to PAGASA, heavy rains and strong winds will rattle Manila today... C`mon, this is crazy, why not just admit it that the reason is because of SONA, that the government just want students to stay home and watch GMA's lies, oh and yes, to keep them off the streets to avoid `em joining rallies from sectoral groups...

This is a lame excuse... Just to update you on Manila's weather, SUNNY!!!

Phak this shit!!!!

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

33 years and counting!!!

2008-07-27T10:24:00.006+11:00

Thank you Lord for everything... It's been 33 years, and am loving it... Few bumps and bad things along the way but hey, life is good, can't complain... I just wish (i think everybody has this wish) that I would be with family more often than not, good health and great Christian life....

Thanks to those who greeted me, it means so much to moi...

Cheers to the good life y'all!!!

Torch c",)

4mos.

2008-07-24T15:08:00.006+11:00

After 4 months, look how adorable she is...

From whattoexpect.com website..

Your 4-Month-Old Baby: Voice Lessons

At four months, your baby is just beginning to find her voice...and laugh! Here's what else your little clown is up to these days.

Okay, so she still cries…a lot. But as she reaches the four-month mark, your baby is learning to vary her voice, adding some adorable coos and goo-goos to her repertoire. You might also discover, if you haven't already had the pleasure, what her darling little laugh sounds like — and she may soon add an attention-grabbing squeal of delight as well (um, was that a human sound?). These giggles and cackles are the first inklings of her sense of humor.

Just through everyday conversation, you've been providing her with the building blocks she needs to begin learning how to speak. She can now understand all the basic sounds of your native tongue and will soon start trying to produce them herself (see, you knew she was smart!). Although there is a wide range of normal — anywhere from three to six months — most babies at around four months old progress from vowel-only oohs and aahs to consonant vocalizations. She'll start with just one consonant at a time: a-ba, a-da. A month or two from now, she'll start practicing her ba-ba-bas, ga-ga-gas, and (much to Daddy's delight) da-da-das. So keep up the running commentary — she's eager to join in!

Just as she enjoys practicing her newfound vocal prowess, she's working on lots of new physical skills too — from grabbing toys to doing her imitation of a turtle on its back. She may find (and be totally mesmerized by) her feet — such fun toys, always available and tasty, too! If you put her on her tummy, she'll work on pushing up her head and chest, as well as flipping over onto her back, where she'll begin to lift her head and shoulders if you gently pull her up. All this helps her build the muscles she'll need to sit up on her own. As long as she has good neck control, try propping her in a seated position. If she slumps down or slips sideways, it's too soon. If not, you can assume she's comfortable and ready (and she'll probably enjoy the change of scene.) If she does start fussing — or slip-sliding away &dmash; pick her up and try again another time.

With all this working out, she should be pretty worn out come nighttime. Many four-month-olds sleep for a six-hour stint at night, giving their lucky parents some much-needed rest. Even if your baby is waking more frequently than that (and many still do!) she may at least settle into a more predictable pattern for naps and bedtime. Encourage this by introducing, and sticking to, a simple sleepy-time routine (such as nursing, then a story and a song).

Wahhh ibalik nyo ako sa Pilipinas!!!!!!!!

Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act

2008-07-23T12:13:00.004+11:00

Sen. Kiko Pangilinan had the right motive, save the minors from being immured with adult criminals and have them transfered to DSWD, obviously to reform and make them better adults in years to come...

What is the downside?

Right now, you could see on tv,print media,hear it over the radio and of course Internet, minors are being caught violating the law...Not minor violations, but major ones like drugs, homicide and even rape...

I was listening on the radio this morning and they said that few minors were caught transporting huge amount of shabu... These kids are being employed as couriers of illegal drugs because their employers(big time syndicates) know that once caught, they will not languish in jail but in the pearly white blanket covered bed in DSWD...

I think an immediate amendment of this law is necessary before we could see more minors headlining the news everyday for major crime violations...

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

August 22 - D day!!!

2008-07-22T12:58:00.005+11:00

Will it be the Iphone day in P.I.? Read more here ---> AppleInsider

IMO, am not that interested owning an Iphone 3G as much I was so interested with my 1st generation Iphone back in February...

But, if the price is not like a highway robbery, who knows I might get interested and buy 1 thru Globe...

Those who are interested to own one, here's the break down...

IPHONE 3G Specs:

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

Beware Fakers!!!

2008-07-19T10:39:00.005+11:00

Are you going to Milan? or maybe Paris? nah maybe Rome? Make sure you're not bringing your fake Louis-Vuitton, Chanel, etc bags...

Airports in these countries will seriously examine your bag(s) before you enter and they will detain you once they're sure that you're a faker...

Good thing wifey is not into bags, hehehehe... Or she's just waiting for me to give her an LV? hmmmmm...whew!!!

I was not that aware of this because my main concentration was software piracy like Microsoft and other big software companies where they will ask you to open your laptop in the airport and examine if you have the license for it... Same goes with dvd/cd music/film piracy where they will confiscate it once you are caught carrying it inside your carry on bags...

The best thing to do is avoid having fakes if you are going out of the country, to save yourself from humiliation...

Imagine even eBay got served ---> Handbagged

Ask your suki in Greenhills and 168 to upgrade the quality of bags or dvd packaging to make sure that it won't be obvious as fakes.... NAhhh just kidding, just save and buy the genuine one, no money? buy local brands...

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

Abdominal Epilepsy!!!

2008-07-18T09:02:00.005+11:00

We got scared yesterday because our `lil baby Zarene(nephew) had seizure and it was the first time and he is 9 years old already...

Still waiting for further tests today but please read the article below to have a better understanding of this disease just in case you would encounter such...

ABDOMINAL EPILEPSY

The association of abdominal symptoms with epilepsy has been recognized for many years. For example, "gastric and intestinal disturbances" were viewed as primary etiological factors by medical doctors during the late 19th and early twentieth century (Musser & Kelly, 1912). The invention and clinical application of the electroencephalo-gram (EEG) during the 1920's shifted the focus of medical attention from the abdomen to the brain where, for the most part, it has remained to this day.

Another example of the abdominal connection in epilepsy is the aura which is common in certain types of epilepsy. For example, temporal lobe epileptic seizures frequently begin with an aura. In neurological terms, an aura is actually a mild seizure which precedes the primary seizure. It can be thought of as a warning that a seizure is about to happen. Most often, auras manifest as an altered consciousness or peculiar sensation. "The most common aura is of vague gastric distress, ascending up into the chest" (Gordon, 1942, p. 610).

Modern medical science has rediscovered the abdominal connection in epilepsy. Several papers published in the medical journals during the 1960s called attention to the abdominal connection in epilepsy. Over the past forty years, numerous researchers and clinicians have reported on various aspects of abdominal epilepsy.

Common clinical features of abdominal epilepsy include abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and diarrhea with nervous system manifestations such as headache, confusion, and syncope (Peppercorn & Herzog, 1989). "Although its abdominal symptoms may be similar to those of the irritable bowel syndrome, it may be distinguished from the latter condition by the presence of altered consciousness during some of the attacks, a tendency toward tiredness after an attack, and by an abnormal EEG" (Zarling, 1984, p.687). Mitchell, Greenwood and Messenheimer (1983) regard cyclic vomiting as a primary symptom of abdominal epilepsy manifesting as simple partial seizures (1983).

Although abdominal epilepsy is diagnosed most often in children, the research of Peppercorn and Herzog (1989) suggests that abdominal epilepsy may be much more common in adults than is generally recognized:

"Abdominal epilepsy is well described among pediatric patients but is recognized only infrequently in adults. Our experience over the past 15 years indicates that the disorder may not be as rare as is suggested by the paucity of literature on the subject. Moreover, the variability of the clinical presentation indicates a spectrum to both the gastrointestinal (GI) and central nervous system (CNS) manifestations of abdominal epilepsy in adults." (Peppercorn & Herzog, 1989, p. 1294)

One of the primary problems in understanding abdominal epilepsy is clearly defining the relationship of the abdominal symptoms to the seizure activity in the brain. In other words, what is the pathophysiology of abdominal epilepsy. Is the essential pathology in certain areas of the brain which happen to be connected to the abdominal organs? Or, is the primary pathology in the abdomen which is conveyed through connecting nerve fibers to the brain resulting in epileptic seizures? Peppercorn and Herzog noted both possibilities in their attempt to understand the cause of abdominal epilepsy:

"The pathophysiology of abdominal epilepsy remains unclear. Temporal lobe seizure activity usually arises in or involves the amygdala. It is not surprising, therefore, that patients who have seizures involving the temporal lobe have GI symptoms, since discharges arising in the amygdala can be transmitted to the gut via dense direct projections to the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus. In addition, sympathetic pathways from the amygdala to the GI tract can be activated via the hypothalamus.

On the other hand, it is not clear that the initial disturbance in abdominal epilepsy arises in the brain. There are direct sensory pathways from the bowel via the vagus nerve to the solitary nucleus of the medulla which is heavily connected to the amygdala. These can be activated during intestinal contractions." (Peppercorn & Herzog, 1989, p. 1296).

In other words, the trigger for the seizures may be in the abdomen.   At this time, there is no definitive model of abdominal epilepsy which explains the association of brain seizures and abdominal symptoms. However, there is a growing body of medical information which may lead to a better understanding of this complex relationship.

EDGAR CAYCE'S PERSPECTIVE ON ABDOMINAL EPILEPSY

Edgar Cayce's explanation of abdominal epilepsy is that nervous system incoordination in the abdomen ("abdominal brain") is transferred to the brain via the medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata is a major nerve center at the base of the brain where the spinal cord enters the brain.

As discussed in other sections, Cayce identified "adhesions" in the lacteal ducts of the abdomen as the source of the nervous system incoordination which was transferred from the abdominal brain to the brain in the head via the medulla oblongata. Physiologically, lacteal ducts are part of the lymphatic system. They absorb fats and proteins from the small intestine. Cayce stated that various etiological factors (e.g., high fever, abdominal injury, reflexes from other portions of the nervous system) could produce "adhesions" in the area of the lacteal ducts. An adhesion is a:

"... union of two surfaces that are normally separate; also, any fibrous band that connects them. Surgery within the abdomen sometimes results in adhesions from scar tissue. As an organ heals, fibrous scar tissue forms around the incision. This scar tissue may cling to the surface of adjoining organs, causing them to kink. Adhesions are usually painless and cause no difficulties, although occasionally they produce obstruction or malfunction by distorting the organ." (Miller & Keane, 1972, p. 16)

Abdominal adhesions were a major etiological factor in Cayce's model of epilepsy. He noted that adhesions to the lacteal duct area could be produced by a variety of sources including high fever, abdominal injury, and nerve reflexes from injured spinal centers.

Here are a couple of examples of Cayce's description of the pathophysiology of abdominal epilepsy. The first case involved an eighteen year old male. Cayce stated that there had been a spinal injury producing nerve reflexes to the abdomen which:

"... caused a slowing of the circulation through the areas of the lacteal ducts, thus producing a cold area there, that has produced a partial adherence of tissue.
     With the activity of the lymph through the area, we find that periodically, when there is the lack of proper eliminations through the alimentary canal, there occurs a reflex to the coordination between sympathetic [abdominal brain] and cerebrospinal [central nervous] system area; that takes the governing of the impulse, as it were, to the brain reactions; or a form of spasmodic reaction that might be called epileptic in its nature." (1980-1)

Note the reference to adhesion ("adherence of tissue") and a slowing of circulation through this area. Cayce believed that restricted circulation produced coldness in the area of the lacteal ducts (on the right side of the abdomen). According to Cayce, "From EVERY condition that is of true [idiopathic] epileptic nature there will be found a cold spot or area between the lacteal duct and the caecum." (Cayce, 567-4)

Also note the reference to periodicity associated with "activity of the lymph through the area" and "proper eliminations through the alimentary canal." In other words, cycles of seizure activity were linked to activity of the gastrointestinal tract (i.e., digestion and eliminations). Hence seizure activity may be associated with digestive problems with certain types of foods (e.g., carbohydrates and fats) and/or with improper eliminations (diarrhea or constipation).

Another important point is the importance of "coordination" between the nervous system in the abdomen and the nerves of the brain. Consistent with the growing body of medical information on the "abdominal brain" and enteric nervous system, Cayce referred to the abdominal brain as the "solar plexus brain," (2259-1 & 1800-15), the "secondary brain" (294-212), and the "central brain in the solar plexus" (4613-1). He noted that the brain in the abdomen with its nervous system (the "sympathetic" system) and the brain in the head with its nervous system (the "cerebrospinal system") must coordinate to maintain physical and mental health. When these two systems are out of harmony with each other, various forms of illness usually result. Epileptic seizures might be regarded as the most severe form of incoordination between these two brains and nervous systems of the body. Actually, the extent of nervous system incoordination might be described as almost a complete dissociation.

Here is another description of the basic nervous system incoordination by Edgar Cayce given for an adult suffering from epilepsy:

"As indicated, the lesions - or adhesions and lesions - in the lacteal ducts are the basic cause for the disturbance in the nervous system.... When there is an expression or activity from the sympathetic nervous system ... we find there is movement or impulse to and from the brain centers themselves. Then with a lesion or adhesion the impulse is cut off - or deflected.... Then this ... connection with the solar plexus nerve centers [abdominal brain], making for an incoordination with the cerebrospinal nerve system, produces at the base of the brain - or through the medulla oblongata - an incoordinant reaction [seizure] ...
Q. Do you find any condition existing in the brain, or is it reflex?
A. As we find, and as indicated, the accumulations that have been there [in the cerebral brain] are rather reflex - and are produced by the condition in the lacteal duct area."   (1025-2)

Note that the reflex from the abdomen produced "accumulations" in the cerebral brain . Perhaps a modern brain scan or electro-encephalogram would have detected a focal lesion in the brain as the source of the seizure. Yet, Cayce insisted that the source of the condition was in the abdomen. Also note that the reflex from the abdomen was mediated through the medulla oblongata, an important nerve center at the upper portion of the spinal cord where it enters the skull. This is significant because Cayce sometimes recommended that a piece of ice be placed at this area during the aura or at the beginning of the seizure. This simple technique has proven effective in several contemporary cases where Cayce's therapeutic model has been utilized. Incidentally, this technique for preventing seizures was also used by osteopathic physicians during the early decades of this century.

Following is an exemplary excerpt from the Cayce readings on epilepsy which summarizes his approach:

"As has been indicated and should be noted by the masseur or osteopath the lesions that cause attacks are in the lacteal duct and those areas about the assimilating system and the upper portion of jejunum and caecum.
     There are NO brain lesions, but there is that which at times hinders the
coordination between the impulses of the body and the normal physical
reactions or that break between the cerebrospinal and the sympathetic or vegetative [enteric] nerve system, that coordinates from the lacteal duct through the adrenals and their reaction to the pineal; causing the spasmodic reaction in the medulla oblongata, or that balance at the base of the brain.
     Have sufficient periods of the Castor Oil Packs. To be sure, they are disagreeable, but they will break up lesions as no other administrations will. The best time to take these is the evening, to be sure. These should be given in series; applied for an hour each evening for two or three evenings BEFORE each osteopathic adjustment is to be made, see? At least every OTHER series, follow same with at least a tablespoonful of Olive Oil taken internally....
     Keep these up until this coldness AND the lesion in the right side is removed, which is just a hand's breadth below the point of the rib, or over that area of the ducts.
     To be sure, there may be many questions as to the exact area of the ducts, even according to some anatomists for they have changed their ideas of people, and yet people haven't changed a very great deal!
     There are, to be sure, lacteal ducts. There are the strings or ducts all through the upper portion of the alimentary canal, or jejunum; but the larger patch or area is that lying just below the lower end of the duodenum, and where same EMPTIES into the jejunum, see? ...
     The adhesions in these ducts here were produced by an excess temperature, which the body suffered at some period when there was too SUDDEN dropping of the temperature (which they may check and find to be correct), and NOT sufficient water, or manipulations, or activity, through the alimentary canal.
     This has gradually caused the disturbances to the general breaking of coordination in the nerve systems, and brings about for this body the SOURCE of the attacks.
     These CAN be these will be eliminated, if these applications here suggested will be followed."   (2153-4)

Cayce's primary treatment recommendations for epilepsy were directed at eliminating the nervous system incoordination in the abdomen. Castor oil packs, massage and diet were some of the therapies commonly suggested by Cayce to heal the abdominal brain and prevent seizures in the cranial brain.

UPDATE: My nephew will be released today(July 19) from the hospital... Sadly, it's abdominal epilepsy but on the bright side he is well and can't wait to go home!!!

Torture Test!!!

2008-07-16T17:49:00.004+11:00

After realizing that Iphone 3G would actually blend, I found a site that did some torture test to Apple's latest baby ...

Guess this new gadget is truly not that love by many...

http://www.pcworld.com/video/id,852-page,1-bid,0/video.html

Will it blend?

2008-07-13T13:55:00.005+11:00

Some people are nuts just to promote their products..

Watch this one as an example... Marketing strategy? yeah, but still way overboard for me...

`till next time, hold on to your 1st gen. Iphone guys!!!

Torch c",)

LPG Power!!!

2008-07-13T10:32:00.004+11:00

With the rising cost of petrol today, paghihigpit sa sinturon ang kelangan ika nga ng ating mga magulang... I've read some stories and articles about LPG powered vehicles and am pondering of installing this to Makisig... Imagine the savings I would have if I will use LPG instead of Blaze from Petron... When I read that Sen. Chiz Escudero, one of the brilliant senators we have in P.I. is using LPG made me realized that, man this is not funny anymore, even those who is filthy rich is thinking of saving money because of the rising cost of petrol why am i not making any effort to save? Demet, makes me feel guilty!!!

SO GUYS, think of ways how to save these days, not only on fuel but also on other things like food and communication, if it's not that important, send sms instead of calling every min. of the day...

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

For Ladies Only!!!

2008-07-11T12:32:00.005+11:00

Ladies, do you want your hubby to live longer? Of course you will definitely say yes... Based on the studies of a Japanese scientist, erectile dysfunction can be prevented if your hubby will have more sex when he reached the age of 50... In the U.S. an American doctor said that more sex means longer life for your hubby and advices at least 3 or more sex a week.... So, with these findings, I think when your hubby ask for it, don't say no and you will definitely be together longer... Always remember that if a person is happy all positive vibes will be absorbed by mind and body!!

`till next time, practice makes perfect, geeezzz am overseas!!!

Torch c",)

Don't Drive just DRINK!!!

2008-07-10T12:35:00.006+11:00

With the rising cost of petro l these days, the cost of a bottle of my favorite San Mig Lite in some bars in Makati and Kyusi is much cheaper than a litter of Makisig's Blaze high octane gas...

Now the phrase Don't Drink and Drive can be rephrased to DON' T DRIVE just DRINK...

`till next time, drink up, ride a jeepney, leave your car, stay safe!!!

Torch c",)

LoBat!!!

2008-07-08T18:48:00.003+11:00

LoBat, lomi at battery, hehehehe...

Well, my in-laws will be opening two stores and I think I will have to take this opportunity to show you the design I made for both businesses...

For my father in-law...

For my mother in-law...

`till next time, sarap ng lomi talaga!!!

Torch c",)

Pescetarian

2008-07-08T10:25:00.008+11:00

I learned a new word today...

Check it out...

Pescetarianism
Pescetarianism (or Pesco-vegetarianism) is a semi-vegetarian dietary choice, in which a person — known as a pesco-vegetarian — only eats vegetables, fruit, andfish or other non-mammalian sea food, but will not eat mammals or birds. Someanimal products like eggs and dairy may be part of a pescovegetarian diet.Terms like pesco-vegetarianism are sometimes used to describe pescetarianism, to emphasize that pescetarians abstain from eating the flesh of land animals. However, these terms are controversial and lesser-used, in part because they imply that pescetarianism is a type of vegetarianism. The Vegetarian Society, which initiatedpopular use of the term vegetarian as early as 1847, does not consider pescetarianism a valid vegetarian diet.[1] Some other entities accept pescetarianism as a valid vegetarian diet, including MedicineOnline.com,[2] Vegetarian.LifeTips.com,[3] and the Centre for Cancer Education.[4] The definitions of "vegetarian" in authoritative, mainstream dictionaries vary.[5]

Bored?

2008-07-07T15:38:00.005+11:00

Sometimes if you're doing the same thing everyday you tend to get bored and always looking for sumthin` to make yourself challenged or try different things... I found this site that will bring the old school typing tutor to the test... This time you're competing online... Very nice, I like it, hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did...

My score wasn't that high but at least I won that round :) Check this one out @ http://play.typeracer.com/

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

Rafa's might...

2008-07-07T09:29:00.004+11:00

After reigning for 5 years in a row at the Wimbledon Open, Roger Federer finally lost it to his rival Rafael "Rafa" Nadal... This rivalry has been the the headline of men's tennis for so many years and both of them are always complementing each other after each of their championship battles... Rafa haven't won in grass or either hard court when he's facing Roger in the championship and same goes to Roger, he can't beat Rafa in the clay court most importantly, Roland Garros or the French Open... But now , Rafa finally grabbed the limelight in the grass court, winning in a 5 sets thriller that viewers saw the grit and awesome display of great tennis championship...

Full story at www.wimbledon.com...

Dahil sa Langis?

2008-07-03T14:56:00.003+11:00

I received this email from mabuhay miles a moment ago... Am not affected by this (not at the moment) but some friends will definitely will be disgusted reading this advisory...

TRAVEL ADVISORY ON FREE BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE

50 POUNDS OR 23 KILOS LIMIT PER PIECE OF CHECKED-IN BAGGAGE TO AND FROM USA (INCLUDING GUAM) AND CANADA

Following the lead of most airlines flying trans-Pacific routes, Philippine Airlines will start implementing for all tickets issued or re-issued starting 01 July 2008 a limit of 50 pounds (23 kilos) for each of the two pieces of free baggage on flights to and from the United States, including Guam and Canada. The Civil Aeronautics Board approved the reduction of the baggage allowance last 12 June 2008.

Tickets issued before 01 July 2008- but for travel from 01 July 2008 onward - still entitle passenger to the erstwhile free baggage weight limit of 70 pounds (32 kilos) per piece.

PAL is constrained to take this step as a consequence of record-high fuel prices that have adversely impacted the airline industry worldwide. The International Air Transport Association has forecast a massive global industry lost of $6.1 billion for 2008. In response, most major carriers have reduced free baggage allowance or imposed new fees for checked baggage as a way of easing operational cost.

The 50-pound limit allows smoother connections for PAL passengers traveling to and from interior points in the U.S. and Canada, where domestic flights have already applied the new weight cap. Also, most U.S. carriers have limited free checked baggage allowance to only one piece, while some have eliminated it altogether, charging $15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second.

Note:

As part of the Elite level privileges, Mabuhay Miles Premier Elite members and Million Milers can carry one (1) extra piece of luggage (not exceeding to 50 pounds or 23 kilos) when flying to and from the USA (including Guam) and Canada on Philippine Airlines.

Ingrid is free!!!

2008-07-03T13:27:00.006+11:00

Finally, after 6 1/2 years of being held captive by Colombia's rebel group FARC, Ingrid Betancourt is free... For those who is not familiar with her, she's a french-colombian politician who was then a presidential candidate prior to her captivity... She was actually campaigning at that time (Feb of 2002) and was ahead in the survey...

By being a french citizen, her story became a world wide issue because France and other neighboring South American countries began to negotiate for her release...

Kudos to the Colombian military, not only for her release but also to the freedom of 14 more hostages including 3 Americans...

Full story is on CNN...

Coffee!!!

2008-07-02T17:55:00.007+11:00

My breakfast is not complete without coffee and I guess am not alone in this world... I've read so many articles in the past about the goodness of coffee but this article I read this morning has more significance in our present situation right now; wherein finding for alternative cure for cancer and other serious diseases are going full scale...

So maybe, going to starcbuco once in a while isn't that bad after all...

Read it here ...

Escaleras and the Ungasis!!!

2008-07-02T10:22:00.006+11:00

Maybe Bossing got tired of his Enteng Kabisote series every filmfest and decided to give way for another run of one of the all-time favorite hit tv series Iskul Bukol... Tentatively, the working title is Escalera Brothers and the Ungasis(20 years after) and was included as an official entry to the Manila FIlms Festival this December...

Among the three, am a big Joey de Leon fan and I haven't seen him on the big screen for quite sometime now, so this is a great opportunity for him and chance for us to check if he still got it as former box office king and once touted as the next Dolphy... But of course, now it's a different story `cause everybody's talking about Bossing as the next King of Comedy... Why not, if you have box office hits one after the other...

`till next time, see you at the lobby!!!

Torch c",)

Justin TV

2008-07-01T11:23:00.005+11:00

Do you want to broadcast yourself over the Internet?

Well, just logon to www.justin.tv and you can be seen worldwide by anybody...

Quality depends on your broadband/dial-up connection...

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

Manny Wins!!!

2008-06-29T16:05:00.003+11:00

Yahooo galing mo Meni!!!

Teka, pati sa chicks panalo ka ren, Tibay mo meyn!!!

MANNY PACQUAIO VS. DAVID DIAZ

PREFIGHT

Nicole Angela Judalena sings the National Anthem of the Philippines. Chants of "Manny! Manny! Manny!" begin immediately after. Jasmine Villegas sings the National Anthem of the United States. Again, chants of "Manny! Manny! Manny!" Both fighters blew up in weight tonight. Diaz weighing 148 and Pacquiao weighing 147. The challenger, Manny Pacquiao, comes out first. He smiles to the crowd as he makes his way out of the tunnel. He looks calm, cool and collected. The champion, David Diaz, comes out next accompanied by former jr. middleweight champion Fernando Vargas. He looks up for the challenge. "LADIES AND GENTLEMEN...LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLEEEEEEEE!"

ROUND 1

Pacquiao comes out firing the jab and lands a left to the body. Diaz lands a short right hook on the inside. Pacquiao showing a lot of movement. Diaz lands a 1-2 on the inside. Left to the body lands for Pacquiao. HARD left hand lands for Pacquiao upstairs. Diaz lands a right to the body. Stiff jab and a left hand lands for Pacquiao. Uppercut lands for Pacquiao. Chants for Manny grow loud. Diaz keeping a high guard and blocking a lot. Two HARD right hands land on the inside for Diaz. HARD left hook lands for Pacquiao and Diaz smiles and yells, "Come on!" Hard body shot lands for Pacquiao. Round to Pacquiao, but it could get very interesting.

Pacquiao 10 Diaz 9

ROUND 2

Right hand lands for Pacquiao. Some roughhousing on the inside. Uppercut and a left lands for Pacquiao. Diaz lands a body shot. HARD uppercut lands for Pacquiao again. Diaz lands a HARD left down the pipe. Another left lands for Diaz. Left and an uppercut from Pacquiao just grazes Diaz. Diaz blocking a lot with his high guard. They trade left hands. Nice left hook lands for Pacquiao. Diaz works the body. The crowd is yelling nonstop. Right hand lands for Pacquiao. They trade big left hands. Blood starts to flow from Diaz. Nice counter right hand lands for Pacquiao. Diaz lands a right of his own. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 20 Diaz 18

ROUND 3

Left to the body lands for Pacquiao. Wooooo...quick and hard right hook lands for Pacquiao. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. Another HARD right hook lands for Pacquiao. Uppercut lands for Pacquiao. Diaz eating a lot of leather now. They trade right hooks. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. Diaz lands a couple of body shots. Beautiful four punch combo lands for Pacquiao. Diaz lands a left. Short right hand on the inside lands for Diaz. Some roughhousing from Diaz on the inside as Pacquiao takes a break. Nice three-punch combo lands for Pacquiao. Diaz tries to work the body. A few more body shots land for Diaz. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 30 Diaz 27

ROUND 4

1-2 lands for Diaz now. HARD right to the body lands for Diaz. Right to the body lands for Pacquiao now. HARD right hook upstairs lands for Pacquiao. Left to the body lands for Pacquiao. A break in the action so the doctor can look at the cuts on Diaz. The action resumes. WOOOOO...HARD right hook lands for Pacquiao and Diaz looks wobbled. Pacquiao throwing a ton of combos. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. Diaz lands a jab. WOOOOOOOOOOO...BEAUTIFUL right hand upstairs lands for Pacquiao. Wow. Diaz lands a right down the pipe. They trade right hands. Diaz throws caution to the wind and just tries to slug with Pacquiao. Big mistake as he gets the worst of it. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 40 Diaz 36

ROUND 5

Diaz lands a jab. Pacquiao dancing in there. Some body shots land for Diaz. Quick uppercut lands for Pacquiao. Right hand and another uppercut lands for Pacquiao. BIG left hand lands for Pacquiao followed by a couple of rights and an uppercut. Pacquiao landing whatever he wants and doing a masterful job of boxing. The eye of Diaz looks horrible. Right hook lands for Diaz. They trade rights. Nice combo landed by Diaz. Pacquiao lands a big 1-2 of his own. HARD left hand lands for Diaz and Pacquiao wobbles for a split second. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 50 Diaz 45

ROUND 6

Diaz lands a couple of right hands. Pacquiao picking his shots. Right hook lands for Pacquiao. Diaz sneaks in a right of his own. They trade jabs. Diaz sneaks in an uppercut. Some roughhousing on the inside. The action has slowed a bit. Big left hand lands for Pacquiao. Right hook lands for Pacquiao and he dances away. Jab from Diaz snaps the head back of Pacquiao. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. BIG right hand lands for pacquiao. A break in the action again so the doctor can take another look at the cuts. The action resumes. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 60 Diaz 54

ROUND 7

Jab lands for Pacquiao. Some roughhousing on the inside again and both men get a warning. Hard right to the body lands for Diaz. Pacquiao answers with a right hook upstairs. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. Right to the body lands for Diaz. Diaz digs another 1-2 to the body. Double jab and a right hook lands for Pacquiao. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 70 Diaz 63

ROUND 8

Pacquiao lands a couple of jabs and an uppercut. Diaz sneaks in a left. Left hand lands for Pacquiao. Diaz lands an uppercut, but Pacquiao lands a right. Pacquiao backs him up to the ropes and lets his hands go. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. Diaz just covering up and eating a lot. 1-2 lands for Pacquiao. Diaz looks about done. Stiff jab lands for Diaz. Stiffer jab lands for Pacquiao. Round to Pacquiao.

Pacquiao 80 Diaz 72

ROUND 9

Jabs and left hands landing at will for Pacquiao. Diaz has nothing on his punches. Right hook lands for Pacquiao. 1-2 lands for Diaz. Jab lands for Pacquiao. Left hand lands for Pacquiao and Diaz rocks backwards. Right hook lands for Pacquiao followed by a left. They trade jabs. STIFF right hand lands for Pacquiao. WOOOOOO...short left hand down the pipe lands for Pacquiao and Diaz is down. That's it. The ref has seen enough and doesn't even bother to count. Masterful performance by Manny Pacquiao.

Pacquiao TKO9

Watch Pacman Vs. Diaz LIVE!!!

2008-06-28T12:07:00.003+11:00

I got this from a forum..

Here's how:

Download and install Sopcast client/player.
Run it and Login as anonymous
Search for HBO PPV channel on the “Live Channel” tab, or you can enter the channel on the “address” field if you have one.

Tentative channel: sop://broker1.sopcast.com:3912/35999

You can get more Sopcast channels at blog.nestlepoell.net or search for it at pacland forum.

It also worth to try this free video streaming website

and check the schedule a day before the actual fight.

Windows 7

2008-06-27T17:39:00.003+11:00

Since switching to a MAC last month, I've been a happy camper and love computing as its finest... But am not closing my mind even my heart to Windows... Fascinating, is the right word when you look back and try to remember what windows did to our lives and to computing since Windows 3.XX.. Though am loving my MBP and it's OS (Leopard) I never quit on searching for what Windows is doing right now and what they will do in the future...

As we all know, Vista is a disappointment... Lack of driver support, more blue screen errors and hardware hungry when running multiple applications... It's sad also that Bill Gates is relinquishing his post as head of Microsoft so that he could focus on his foundation and will now be guided by Steve Ballmer... But, don't worry Windows fans, they're shaking the heads of their Research and Development department to produce the next great OS and eliminate the disappointment created by Vista...

Windows 7 will be the next OS of Microsoft...

Screenshot below:

Go Manny!!!

2008-06-27T14:50:00.005+11:00

I really like to watch boxing specially when you're rooting for your fellow pinoy... Sunday, Pacman will fight again in the ring against David Diaz...

I remember when I was still in the Philippines, whenever there's a Pacman fight, most of my friends and relatives gather around the house to see his fight... San Mig lite is a fave companion and inihaw na baboy...Wooww!!! Demet homesickness buzzing again..

Well, hopefully he'll win so that it will alleviate the tension and all those misfortunes that are happening to our country now...

GO Manny and we will surely be awaiting the interview when you release those lethal " you know " combination...

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

Gel Dapa!!!

2008-06-26T12:31:00.005+11:00

My baby is 3mos old going 4mos in 2 weeks time but she gave us a surprising new trick this morning...

Dumapa na si baby, yahoooo... Wifey saw her lying flat on her stomach for the first time...

Duck Baby Duck...

Next month she'll walk na..hehehehe

Samsung OMNIA

2008-06-25T14:52:00.010+11:00

Another nice and sleeky IPHONE Killer!!!

Source: http://samsungomnia.com

It was unveiled at CommunicAsia, Singapore last week that coincided with its commercial launch in the Southeast Asian market. Europe will have to wait until July to get a grip of this smartphone...

HP Voodoo Pc

2008-06-25T12:40:00.004+11:00

In the early age of computers, it was all about speed and functionality but with the release of MACBOOK AIR, suddenly being fashionable and being thin were added to the category...

Now, not to be outdone, HP will release (reportedly June 27) their (I would say MBA's clone) thinest laptop or possibly the thinest of all laptops in the market today.. It will be called, HP Voodoo Envy 133... Claims to be thiner than MBA with the specs thicker than your ordinary laptop... Nice, but no offense guys, this laptop will still run Windows as its operating system... Am a switcher and am loving my Macbook Pro running MAC OS Leopard compared to Windows phaking blue screen...

Check the official press release from HP at this site - -> http://www.hp.com/hpinfo/newsroom/press/2008/080610xc.html

and the official Voodoo Website

Another setback!!!

2008-06-25T10:17:00.007+11:00

Tsk tsk tsk, I don't want to start my day like this, blogging about misfortunes and negative things but I can't help it, we need to accept that shit happens everyday...

After the MV Princess of the Stars tragedy comes another setback to our beloved country... This morning I got an info that we are now the most corrupt country in the East Asia region according to World Bank... Wow, overtaking Indonesia is an indicator that we are far from solving our problem with corruption... I don't want to ruin your day but I guess we need to be informed and also start to help or maybe contribute sumthin` to alleviate our sufferings from all these misfortunes...

BTW, where's J.Lo now?

`till next time, God help us...

Torch c".)

Want to be slimmer? Drink Water!!!

2008-06-24T10:31:00.008+11:00

Imported from France, a bottled water promises to make you slimmer without the agony of going through liposuction...

Introducing Hydroxydase, the first slimming water available in P.I.. A third world nation like us can always afford to buy this kind of product as long as it would make us look better... Imagine, after Japan and Korea(both rich countries) the Phlippines is the third one to offer this pricey H2O...

Now am thinking, because my grandma when she was still alive always reminds me to drink lots of water, but I never thought following her during this time would be quite expensive... For P110 per bottle, you could spend around P2000/weekly if you will follow the suggested 1 bottle (30mins) before every meal... Whew, i miss those days when you just have to put your glass under your faucet and drink right there and then...

So, better check your fave grocery stores or drug stores for this magic water...

No More Mr. Nice Guy!!!

2008-06-23T11:20:00.009+11:00

Now i got sumthin` to prove why am not mr. nice guy, hehehe..

Better read it for you to find out; this is from yahoo personal written by April Masini...

Dating Secret Exposed: Why Nice Guys Finish Last

Are you a nice guy who has always wondered why the cocky guy -- the one who barely appears interested in the girl -- is usually the one who gets the girl?Have you suffered from hearing the words, "You're a really nice guy, but I only like you as a friend," from a woman who you would do (or may, in fact, have already done) just about anything and everything for -- only to turn around and watch her date (or even chase) a guy who treats her like she's nothing special? And are you stumped wondering why she would date a guy who treats her like that when she could have you who would treat her like a princess and give her everything she wants? Well, you better brace yourself because I'm going to tell you a couple of secrets that you might not want to hear.First, "nice" equates with boring and predictable. Look up "nice" in the dictionary and you find: pleasant; agreeable; satisfactory. In other words, average -- not exceptional, not exciting, and not sexy.I'll bet you've never heard a woman say she didn't want to date a guy because he was too confident, too passionate, or too exciting -- have you? But, I'll bet you have heard women say things like, "He's such a nice guy. He's so sweet and he's always there for me, but I only like him as a friend." Or, "He's such a good guy -- kind, thoughtful, generous, honest, loyal -- but there's no chemistry. He just doesn't turn me on." Sadly, I hear it all the time. The fact is, Mr. Nice Guy, you cannot bore a woman into feeling attracted to you or into wanting to date you. And as obvious as that sounds, if you are one of those guys I described that is exactly what you are trying to do. And it won't work.Please understand that I am not suggesting that you mistreat women or disrespect them in any way. What I suggesting is that you value and respect yourself more.

To illustrate what I mean: The answer to the question, "Why does the guy who doesn't appear to care as much about the girl get the girl?" is simple: The nice guy cares too much, too soon. He has made the woman too important and too valuable and it shows in everything he says and does. He is too available, too eager to please, too accommodating, and he gives too much -- all without getting anything in return. By doing so, he has made himself appear desperate, insecure, needy of this woman's attention, affection, and approval -- and he has stripped himself of any value in her eyes. After all, if he's already doing and giving everything, without her doing or giving anything - why would she value him? She won't. She is not going to value him any more than he values himself. What she is going to do is look for someone else, someone who she perceives as being more worthy, more confident, and more valuable.It works like this: Once you need something, or you want it too badly, you forfeit your strength and lose all power of negotiation.

You are in a position of weakness and you are perceived as weak. Someone (or something) else is in control of you, the situation, and it's outcome. Men in this situation appear to be anything but confident, strong, and exciting. More, they are perceived as being unworthy and as lacking value.

Translation: Things that are easily acquired, obtained, or maintained, without any effort or sacrifice, lack value... it's human nature.The secret to why the cocky guy wins with women, over the nice guy, is that he is perceived as being a stronger, more confident guy with more value. How? He never invests everything -- his entire being, ego, and self-worth in what one woman's response or reaction to him is. He doesn't gush with compliments; he isn't always available; he doesn't give too much; and he knows he isn't going to die if a woman says "no" to him. More, his attitude is, yeah, I'd like to go out with you, but if I can't, that's OK -- I'm a busy guy, with exciting things going on, and lots of other options.

Don't blame me for not being nice, :)

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

Nikon Club Philippines!!!

2008-06-22T15:30:00.008+11:00

Are you a nikon camera user? Well this one's for you... Finally, after years of talks and fights on how to organize and create a single organization for Nikon users, it has been released and launched online..

It doesn't matter if you are a DSLR user or just an average coolpix user, you are invited to join and be a member of this club... Very helpful because you could also join the forum and ask for whatever you need to know with your present camera(s) or questions with regards to your future buys...

Visit http://nikonclubph.org on how to join...

FYI: my id in the forum si goTORCHgo

`till next time, cheers to the good life!!!

Torch c",)

Sony C905 Cyber-shot!!!

2008-06-20T14:55:00.004+11:00

Sony-Ericsson introduces the only phone that has an 8-megapixel camera...

Honestly, this looks like my N6280 without the extra buttons...

Below are excerpts from GSMArena...

The Sony Ericsson C905 Cyber-shot has managed to create a real stir in the mobile community. It's the first GSM handset that ships with the whopping 8 megapixels worth of camera goodies and such things simply cannot go unnoticed.

You've probably already gone through the news scoop and you know the sweet details - face detection, smart contrast, both a xenon flash and a photo flash, as well as geotagging complete the camera feature set. A 2.4-inch QVGA TFT display with scratch-resistant mineral glass cover will serve you as a viewfinder.

Sony Ericsson C905

The Sony Ericsson C905 seems like an excellent high-end cameraphone - our old trustworthy 8 megapixel Canon EOS-1D Mark II N is already starting to feel a wee bit threatened. Will it keep its job?

The Sony Ericsson C905 Cyber-shot also comes with a built-in accelerometer for screen auto rotation, TV-out port, GPS and, wait for it … Wi-Fi support. Yes, that's true wireless networking on a regular feature phone.

And did we also mention the quad-band GSM/EDGE connectivity, the UMTS and HSDPA support, stereo Bluetooth (that's A2DP for the nerd group), USB and FM radio with RDS? Well, it is a nice feature combo by all standards. And it so happens, that we managed to sneak it for a quick hands-on.

Truth be told, the Sony Ericsson C905 Cyber-shot has obviously never heard of diets and healthy food. With a thickness of 18mm (up to 19.5 in its thickest part), it's a seriously fat fella - at least by feature phone standards. There are other really popular smartphones that take the thickness problem even further, but the C905 Cyber-shot is not a smartphone.

Now that being said, some of you are probably going to so hate us for saying this but… the C905 actually looks nice. Some high-quality materials have been used for creating its overweight body and it's crafted flawlessly. We knew we like it as soon as we laid our eyes on it for the first time.

But see what it's worth, a first look is never enough. Hit this small bump on the way to getting to know the Sony Ericsson C905 Cyber-shot a little bit better.

Spam Mail Warning!!!

2008-06-19T17:39:00.003+11:00

Read on from Inquirer.net

Symantec warns against new types of spam

By Lawrence Casiraya
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 11:04:00 06/19/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Symantec has warned about fraudulent email that solicit donations for disaster victims in Myanmar and China, and also spam that cashes in on high gas prices.

In its June spam report, Symantec noted email scam requesting donations for victims of the China earthquake. Scammers use a legitimate website and inserted a fraudulent page under the root domain. When the user clicks on the URL in the spam message, they are directed to the fraudulent site and are asked to make a donation.

Symantec also detected similar spam a few days after the Myanmar cyclone, requesting recipients to donate money.

The fraudulent email reads: "If you wish to contribute to charitable causes, it is important to verify the legitimacy of any email or Websites you may want to use when donating money. Donations should only be made via secure websites, which is usually indicated by the use of a padlock icon displayed in a corner of the browser."

Symantec also reported detecting a number of spam taking advantage of the rise in fuel costs. These email carry offers of free gas, or gas cards and products hyped up to improve gas consumption. In one example, spammers insist that with a particular device, the recipient can beat high gas prices by using water instead of gas in their cars.

It's Boston!!!

2008-06-18T15:01:00.004+11:00

How about that? A 39 point lead in a final game? wow!!!

`till next season, tobacco for the champs!!!

Torch c",)

Ces is free!!!

2008-06-18T08:34:00.005+11:00

At last, Ces Drilon and her fellow captives were released last night...

Thank you Lord, I hope this won't happen again...

Click the image for the complete story...

Streaming Movies!!!

2008-06-18T07:59:00.006+11:00

Mawnin guys, hope you're all doin` superbly fine!!!

I love movies and bet you do also, but being away in P.I. and with language barrier here in Russia, it's impossible to watch new movies aside from waiting for somebody that goes back and brought some DVD's... But a fellow OFW bored as me maybe hehhee, gave a site which i could watch new hollywood movies... Before I watched streaming movies also from another site but not new releases, more like 2 months after the movie was released...

The quality isn't that bad, though it was taken from a movie house of course...

Try it, they're showing The Incredible Hulk as of this writing...

HP B1200

2008-06-17T16:54:00.007+11:00

This seems to be a nice, sleek notebook if you gonna ask me... Core 2 Duo with 1gb ram, quite fine while surfing the net, doing some chatting and creating some word documents...But I got surprised last nite while working on friend's unit... He said he's been experiencing blue screen error while running MS Windows Vista so I checked it out... Outside casing tells you it's HP Presario B1200 when I went to system information it says Dell as the manufacturer.. Phak this can't be, this can not happen because they're like ebs(ABS-CBN) and shitty(GMA7) never will gonna support its other's product... So I chatted with my HP insider and confirmed that this may be a refurbished unit... HP outside, Dell inside... No wonder why it is so cheap... B1200 costs like P50K+ up but my friend got it for P36K, great phaking deal aight?

So guys, be aware, it's cool to have the latest technology these days and getting it cheap but always remember that it's not a sin to ask if you don't know anything...

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

Damn you Kobe!!!

2008-06-16T14:49:00.005+11:00

Just when you thought it's over, came a huge steal by Kobe Bryant.. Tsk tsk tsk...

L.A. hangs on with a 103-98 win over Boston..

Hopefully Celtics will win it in Game 6 and secure their 17th NBA trophy...

GAME 6 - June 17 Eastern Time ( June 18, Wednesday in P.I.)

If you didn't watch Game 5, go to this blog...

http://sports.aol.com/fanhouse/2008/06/15/nba-finals-game-5-live-blog/

Betting time... :)

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

Happy Father's Day!!!

2008-06-15T12:13:00.004+11:00

Daddy, Papa, Tatay, Ama, Erpats whatever you may wanna call `em, cheers to you guys, today is your day...

Microsoft Surface!!!

2008-06-12T16:56:00.004+11:00

If you're thinking that the people in Microsoft are just watching Steve Jobs' gadgets lord it over the market nowadays you're in for a surprise... Microsoft just unveiled their newest baby, Microsoft Surface computer and was launched at Sin City (Vegas)...

Read the article about the launch..

See it for yourself --> Microsoft Surface

Whew this Microsoft vs. Apple thing is heatin` up!!!

NBA Live!!!

2008-06-12T16:34:00.004+11:00

Have you been watching the NBA finals between Lakers and Celtics?

If yes, good for you, if not because you're at work or you don't have cable or some other reasons, well don't be sad, you can actually watch it online... Just check the links below and enjoy the Game 4 tomorrow...

http://www.ustream.tv/

http://www.justin.tv/zooptv

Independence Day!!!

2008-06-12T09:51:00.004+11:00

Today we are celebrating our 110th year of Independence from Spanish rule...
But for the nth time, Ate Glo moved it again last Monday as the official non-working holiday...Neways, just the same, Happy Freedom Day, MABUHAY ang Pilipinas...

Read on for more info...

The Philippine Declaration of Independence occurred on June 12, 1898 in the Philippines, where Filipino revolutionary forces under General Emilio Aguinaldo (later to become the Philippines' first Republican President) proclaimed the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands from the colonial rule of Spain after the latter was defeated at theBattle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War.The declaration, however, was not recognized by the United States or Spain, as the Spanish government ceded the Philippines to the United States in the 1898 Treaty of Paris, in consideration for an indemnity for Spanish expenses and assets lost.While the Philippines first celebrated its Independence Day on June 12, its independence was only recognized on July 4,1946 by the United States. Henceforth, Independence Day was observed on July 4, but in the name of nationalism, and upon the advice of historians, Republic Act No. 4166 was signed into law by President Diosdado Macapagal on August 4,1964, proclaiming June 12, which up to that time had been observed as Flag Day, as Independence Day...

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

Told ya!!!

2008-06-10T09:11:00.004+11:00

RSS from apple news...

Globe Telecom and Apple Bring iPhone 3G to Philippines

MANILA and SAN FRANCISCO—June 9, 2008—Globe Telecom and Apple® today announced that they will be bringing the highly anticipated iPhone™ 3G to the Philippines later this year. iPhone 3G combines all the revolutionary features of iPhone with 3G networking that is twice as fast* as the first generation iPhone, built-in GPS for expanded location based mobile services, and iPhone 2.0 software which includes support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync and runs the hundreds of third party applications already built with the recently released iPhone SDK.“We are very excited to be working with Apple to bring Filipino consumers iPhone 3G later this year,” said Gerardo C. Ablaza, Jr. president and CEO of Globe Telecom. “Our customers are our greatest passion and we’re constantly striving to offer them the most innovative products such as the revolutionary iPhone 3G.”“We are thrilled to bring iPhone 3G to millions of mobile customers in the Philippines,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s COO. “We can’t wait to get this revolutionary mobile device in the hands of even more people around the world.”iPhone 3G will be available to Globe’s postpaid and prepaid subscribers in the Philippines later this year.*Based on 3G and EDGE testing. Actual speeds vary by site conditions.Globe Telecom is a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines with more than 21 million mobile subscribers. As a pioneer, Globe Telecom continues to be a part of the revolution that’s connecting millions of people across the Philippines and around the world. Beyond technology, Globe Telecom’s business is truly shaped by the bonds that tie Filipinos together. Communications is ultimately about relationships, and this drives the company to innovate and constantly find easy and relevant ways to enrich people’s lives.Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and has entered the mobile phone market with its revolutionary iPhone.

`till nex time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)

Ces Drilon Kidnapped!!!

2008-06-10T08:13:00.007+11:00

Yesterday was another big blow to our media... A rebel group from Mindanao snatched one of the country's pride in broadcast-media, Ces Drilon... I admire her and Korina Sanchez for no non-sense approach in broadcasting...

Hopefully, she will be released soon...

Let's pray for her freedom...

Onli in the Philippines!!!

2008-06-09T18:23:00.005+11:00

It was disappointing knowing that only the Philippines has the 10-year basic education in the world... Imagine how we can compete with the rest of the world when they have 2 years more added on their basic education (12) before going to college...

This again shows how incompetent the leaders we have in our country...

Follow this link for the complete story http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=141567

The Happening!!!

2008-06-08T14:24:00.009+11:00

Remember The Sixth Sense? Yeah, a kinda hold-on-to-your-seat movie... Since then I was so intrigued by its Director, M. Night Shyamalan... His movies they say are not fiction but all coming from his personal experiences...

I found myself intensely watching an HBO documentary about him a couple of years ago while he was filming The Village in a remote location ... The guys who made that documentary even befriended Night but when they got too close to him, the group was banned from the location...

It's all here --> HBO..

Now, comes another movie from Night, from its trailer wow, I can't wait to see this but unfortunately The Happening aint gonna happen here in our place... Maybe I'll wait for the dvd release... or bit torrent release hehehehhe...

Showing on Friday the 13th (June)...

See the trailer here...

THE HAPPENING

`till next time, cheers to the good life...

Torch c",)