I wrote this entry at Malaysia Airport. We had a 7 hours stop over so we decided to go out and planned to eat out. Unfortunately, we don't have the local money (Ringgit), so we decided to go back inside and eat our lunch. All went well except for the 10 euros and 2 us dollars i paid for 5 cans of Pepsi for our group, wow! its too much! Happy though because my friend whom i just met at the airport paid for our meals...
The gentleman wearing a red bull cup works in ENOC, an oil company in Dubai and beside him is an Engineer working in Al Kaleej Newspaper. He's the one who paid our super yummy soup. The man in white bull cup is a professional boxer trainer. Bisaya pud from Calinan but lives in Manila.
Its 2am in the morning of November 30 and I’m still up. Later at 3:30pm, my pick-up will come for my 6:30pm flight to the Philippines. This will be my third vacation but this time, I feel excited and nervous at the same time. Plans are set and yet financially I’m not confident.
I will be departing Dubai at 6:50pm via Malaysian Airlines and a stopover in Malaysia Airport for 7 hours before reaching Manila on December 1 at 5:30pm. I am planning to go out and see Malaysia but budget is the greatest factor to consider. If Malaysia will accommodate me in 7 hours within my budget range, I will grab the opportunity. Even not in the place where their iconic Petronas Tower located is, for I learned that it is far away from the airport, but to the nearest point where I can take photos. But still, money is the deciding factor. I will decide when I get there.
In Manila, I will be picked up by the Malate Pensionne chauffer service and will check in immediately after. Nearby mall will be my 1st target to buy toiletries and sim card to contact friends. Bobby, Jose’s daughter is most important and the rest will follow. I might end the night with a drink in a bar.
On my 1st day, vacation plans should be followed strictly. I will enjoy the metro to the fullest for I will not be going with somebody. I will be alone which I think the coolest because it will be cheap, flexible and very movable.
Hahahaizzzzz, cant wait!
That’s why im still up! The clock is ticking…. Tik, tok, tik, tok, tik, tok….
This will be my 1st blog entry in connection for my 45 days vacation in the Philippines. I am so excited and had sleepless nights. Tomorrow will be my flight, November 30 at 17:30hrs via Malaysian Airlines. I feel so anxious for I don’t know if my money is enough to celebrate Christmas and New Year with my family.
Anyway, allow me to share some major plans that I should do, visit or accomplish for my vacation:
Gaylife in the capital, Manila: Pride March, Bathhouses, Bars and Dance Clubs
Explore Boracay for the 1st time
Long land trip and enjoy the scenery of the county side
Home Sweet Home: Quality time with my family, friends and to God
Apply for House and Lot Loan thru Pag-Ibig
Upgrade my SSS Premiums
Eat, Love and Pray
I’m hoping that it will run smoothly,
Bon Voyage!
But before that, a sneak peek on my luggage bag...
One of the reasons why I have erratic sleeping pattern these past few days is because of Photoshop. I just learned it last October when my mother ran for Barangay Kagawad. I was forced to learn the Photo Editing Software by myself because of my eagerness to help my family during campaign.
I spend several hours in the internet searching for helpful links that would teach me where to start. I checked google for links and youtube for videos. At the end, I found myself posting online posters and banners on my Facebook Account with conveying messages to vote my mother, lol! Unfortunately, she placed 12th when it need to be top 7 to win.
I’m about to set aside my prowess in making digital art for it was not convincing. Imagine my mother landed in 12th place on the last election when she was 9th prior to that. I find it too time consuming and the need of making more it not necessary as of the moment.
But not yet, when I learned that my batch mates is cooking for grand reunion this Christmas I immediately showed them my full support. I’m set to be in the Philippines when it happen so I immediately made new one. I post some online posters to help them disseminate the information and the response is quite impressive. Though I find it very plain and simple, very amateur!
I love Photography and Digital Art. This is the reason why I invested for a camera beyond my capacity. Thankful though because I was able to have it in less hassle way. I don’t know where this love of mine will bring me in the future but I’m enjoying it. I’m hoping that I will learn more this technology and share it to the world in most humble way.
I should be happy by now! 10 days more and I’m off for my 45 days vacation to the Philippines in time for Christmas and New Year after 5 long years of not celebrating it with my family. But the pressure is on. I have lots of plans with very less money. I hope that everything will be put into places in God’s help. Anyway, Jesus was born in a manger and I should copy that during my holiday. In between trips, instead of booking a nice room to sleep, a nice bench on a secure location is enough, lol!
To my family and friends who wants my pasalubong instead of my presence, PASENSYA! This is not the time for me to become a Santa Claus. Please bear with me, Global Crisis, Global Warming and Global POBRE!
May bagong bisita na dadayo, sila ang nakasama namin nung kami ay nag-WILD WADI. Dahil pareho silang pogi, nagboluntaryo ako na akin ang isang bote. Pero late akong makakarating dahil sa trabaho, ang bilin ko sa nag-organisa ng party.
Pasado ala-una nang silay aking madatnan. Lahat sila ay bangenge na, kaya inom ko sa alak aking binilisan. Dahil wala pang laman ang aking tyan, agad akong tinamaan na humantong sa padalos-padolos kong galaw na tila ba walang pakialam.
Agad akong umorder ng dalawang bote, kahit ang nasa mesa ay di pa nangangalahati. Gusto kong magpa-impress, ipakita ang aking superb hospitality. Malay mo, ang bisita sa kama kami matulog ng magkatabi.
Pero sa di inaasahang pangyayari, si Wendell nawala sa sarili. Dala ng kalasingan, nagsusumigaw, nagiiyak na walang iniintindi. Broken hearted daw sya at gusto na nyang umuwi. Nang ihatid, gusto namang pumirmi, hay naku! Nag-iinarte.
Bad trip, si Rodel nagwalk-out. Ayaw nya sa eksenang taliwas sa rules ng party. Aniya: “Tamang tawanan, kulitan lang sana ang dapat ipakita. Hindi ang madramang eksena na daig pa mga artista.”
Patuloy ang aming pag-inom sa alak na lasang lason. Palibhasa mumurahin pero kami walang ibang option. Tawanan, kulitan na para bang walang katapusan. Kaya ako’y bumagsak sa kama na tila walang pakialam.
Di ko na nalaman ang mga huling kaganapan. Pero balita ng aking kaibigan marami akong tinawatagan. Kaya pala telopono di mahanap kinabukasan, buti na lang tinago ni Amor na isa sa kainuman.
Matinding sakit ng ulo aking naramdamn, paggising ko kinabukasan. Sumumpa sa sarili na dina iinom kailanman. Ewan ko lang kung ito’y mapapangatawan.
Kung ikaw ay OFW kailangang magsaya, upang di umuwi sa Pinas na para bang balisa. Kung ikaw ay magkukulong sa kwarto ng mag-isa, ikaw ay matulala tatanda kang bigla
Malungkot sa abroad pero kailangan labanan, sakripisyo sa sarili’t pamilya dapat taasan. Dahil kung di makayan ang lungkot sa ibang bayan, pano na lang silang umaasa mawawalan ng yaman.
I’ve been to Wild Wadi for 5 times and every time my friends invite me to go back to the place I simply say “no”. But last Saturday was a different story, I did not hesitate to go back to the place because 1. I want to use my new Billabong board shorts; 2. I want to flaunt my sexy body after frequenting the gym for almost 3 months now; and 3. It will be at night so the sun will not kill us.
We reached the place at around 6pm and immediately line-up to the counter and pay. After sometime, we saw our selves yelling and shouting, enjoying the swimming pool and the rides that this water park offered.
(Photo courtesy of Wendell)
I feel so happy walking around the area with my new shorts on although most of the people wearing the same. I taught that my body is good enough but when I saw people in the place, mine is unflattering. I still have to work out more.
The most interesting part is the weather. Wild Wadi is perfect at night. You can enjoy all time without thinking of sunburn, heat stroke, and other related sickness for over sun exposure. We did not notice the time, it runs so fast. In fact, most of my friends wants to stay more although we already enjoyed the place for almost 6 hours.
The group of friends I am with this night out gave me a refreshing feeling as well. They are so cool and funny and everybody treated one another fairly. Plus the very good looking people in the place that adds excitement to the magnificent view of the amazing hotel, Burj Al Arab.
Geraldine, Glaiza, Wendell Charmaine, Arvy, Cherry, and the two hunks from Nozumi, Maraming Salamat! I had a great time.
Till next time!
PS: Chicken Burger in Wild Wadi should come on your dining table first before other. They use fillet instead of patty and used fried potato slices instead of ordinary French Fries.
Eto si John, ang matalik kong kaibigan. Sya ang nagtulak sa akin sa mundo ng kabaklaan. Grade 3 (June, 1989) kami noong unang nagtagpo, hanggang ngayon na kahit nagkalayo, puso't isip namin ay nagkakasundo.
Sa kanya ako unang umamin na ako ay bakla, noong di ko na matago at nababahala. "John, bakla ako", ang pag-amin ko sa kanya. "Alam ko matagal na, bruha ka!" ang sagot naman nya. Mula noon, nalaman ko kung pano magsaya, ngumiti na walang halong kaplastikan at humarap sa kanino man. Nalaman man ng tao ang tunay kong pagkatao, pero feeling ko gumanda ako at ang mundo. Salamat John!
Disco, malling, kape, sine, foodtrip, sextrip, at kung ano-ano pa. Ako'y naging masaya sa feeling nya. Di ko alam na kahit kulang kami sa pera, nakakahanap kami ng paraan para magsya. Pero lilinawin ko lang, di kami magsyota. Ewwwww!
2005 ako'y nangibang bayan, Dubai aking pinuntahan upang dito maghanap ng kabuhayan. Naging malungkot man nung una, pero sa tulong nang teknolohiya, kumyonikasyon namin ay di nag-iba.
2007 muli kaming nagkita, maikli lang dahil emergency lang ang eksena. Namatay kasi ang ate na lubos kong kinalungkot pero nandyan sya kasama ng iba pa, kaya madaling nanumbalik ang aking sigla.
Kalagitnaan ng 2008 ako'y natuwa, dahil from Davao lipad sya patungong Manila. May job offer sya papuntang Saudi Arabia, excited ako dahil next level na kaming dalawa. Bagong bayani, pang-international ang beauty.
Dumating ang 2009 at di pa rin nakaalis, tinatanong ko kung bakit, ang dami daw mintis. Patuloy ako sa pagtatanong kung anong klaseng mintis, pero ang dami din naman nyang dahilan kaya malabo na daw ang kanyang paglisan.
May 2009 ang sumunod na uwi sa Pinas, at muli kaming nagkita ng matalik kong kaibigan. Excited dahil kami ay gagala, di sa probinsya na aming kinalakihan pero sa syudad ng Maynila na sobrang yaman, sa kabaklaan at iba pang kamundohan.
Bathouse, bars, dance clubs aming pinasukan. Malate ginawa naming tambyan. Isang gabi, kami ay nagpamasahe (link) at tumuloy sa aming kaibigan na si Phoebe. Tawanan, inuman hanggang magdamagan. Feeling mayaman na dati’y sa panaginip lang.
Di mapapantayan ang saya kapag si John ang nasa tabi. Palagi syang may baon na nakakawili. Gano man kahirap ang kinakaharap,gagaan at liliwanag kapag sya ang nakakausap.
Nang ako’y pabalik sa Dubai na aking pinagtratrabahuan, lungkot na naman ang aking naramdaman. Panay ang tanong sa sarili kung ito ba ang kailangan, ang bansang sinilangan ay di talaga mapantayan. “Maswerte ka!” ang sabi ng kaibigan kong si John. “Marami ang gustong mag-abroad, pero di napagbibigyan.” “Sa muling pagkikita!” ang iyak ko sa kanya. Di na nahiya ang tunay na naramdaman, dahil emosyon ko di na napigilan.
Dumaan ang mga araw at mga buwan, wala ng balita sa kaniyang pangingibang bayan. Ayaw na daw nya dahil di nya kaya, mas gugustuhin daw nya kasama ang pamilya.
Setyembre 2009, apat na buwan mula nung kami nagkita. May sinabi sya sa akin na lubos kong kinabahala. Messages online sa facebook una nyang binalita, agad ko namang tinawagan para ako’y maliwanagan. HIV infected daw sya kaya di sya pumasa, sa trabaho abroad wala ng pag-asa.
Natakot ako sa kanyang sinabi, dahil hindi man lang nya nabanggit noong kami ay magkatabi. Ang mahirap nagkasabay kami, sa mga lugar ng paraosan sa bandang Malate.
Ngayon, ako’y nalilito. Kung kukuha ng test sa Pilipinas bago ako mabuko dito. Pero ano ang magagawa ko kung magpositibo, di ko alam… Dyos ko, tulungan ako.
Sa ngayon, patuloy ang buhay. Kung ano man ang ibibigay ay tanggapin ng buong husay. Ang mahalaga, naging mabuting umaalalay. Sa kabutihan at katahimikan, pilit di sumasablay.
Sa kaibigan kong si John, walang iwanan. Sama-sama tayo at magtutulungan. Ano mang unos ang ating madatnan, kaya natin to sa tulong ng pamilya at sa Dios na lay lalang...
Ngeek! August 16 pa pala ang huli kong post at ang laswa pa. Para naman ma-update tong blog ko, magpopost na lang ako nang kung anu-ano. Anyway, wala namang nagbabasa dito.
February 2009 bumili (utang actually) ako ng dslr camera dahil na rin sa blog na ito. Naiganyo din siguro ako ni George na kaibigang chuva dahil isang araw, kinuha akong photographer sa mga katrabaho naming babae na binihisan nya ng bonggang-bongga. Kahit point & shoot lang ang gamit, aba! naaliw kami sa resulta.
Fastrack...
After 1 and a half year of having this gadget, noong Friday the 13th, August lang talaga ako nagseryoso. Nang pakiusapan ako ni Eric, ang aming butihing Purchasing Secretary na kunan silang mag-asawa ng retrato para sa nalalapit nilang kasal sa simbahan sa Pilipinas. Mega-excited naman ako dahil first time kong mag photo-shoot session kaya super research sa internet at nood ng video sa youtube ng mga pre-nup pictures para naman di ako mapahiya.
At eto na nga... At eto pa...Sample photos lang muna dahil sa halos 500 na kuha, 5 lang ang pumasa sa mag-asawa, kaya may susunod na session pa, heheheh!
I am addicted to video scandals over the internet but I never thought of doing it by myself... not until last night. After I get drunk, evil spirit comes to my body. I set up the video option of my Ipod, place it on the top of the fridge and recorded the unthinkable scenes. My Ipod was the sole witness of what happened during the night which was the union of 2 bodies, mine and a former colleague. I watched it over 10 times this day and I did not feel good, in fact I feel tension, uneasiness, and scared. But as of this writing, the clip is still on my music player.
I want to save the clip or download it here but it will make my life more complicated so better not to. Tonight, after this entry I will delete the 1st video scandal I ever made for myself.
Mirror, mirror on the wall who is the prettiest among them all...
The HGRS Staff during Christmas Party 2007. From left to right: Amor - Spa Therapist, Kim - Spa Attendant, JV - Receptionist, George - One Touch Service Operator, A friend - not HGRS Staff, and Jonathan (Straight) - Waiter at the back stage before the Macho Gay Competition.
Fatima - Receptionist Supervisor, Grace - Restaurant Hostess and Chris of Metropolitan Catering during the coronation night of the 1st HGRS Barrio Fiesta. A celebration for the upcoming Philippine Independence Day.
Author's Note: "BONGGA! wait, parang mas maganda pa yata ang mga nasa taas ah, heheheheh!"
Yesterday, was my roommate's birthday Bob, aka "ang Mayor ng Tondo." He was known mayor for being so friendly, happy go lucky, trend setter, party maker, and above all lassenggo.
The day started with a surprised birthday wish from his close friends. We put birthday banner, balloons, and cooked food for breakfast before he came home from a night shift duty.
When he finally arrived, we wished him by surprise. He almost cried. And the party is on from morning till late at night.
Colleagues and friends helping each other to make this day special.
For the past 5 years of working here in Dubai, i see to it that my family is my priority. I send them money monthly more than expected. I send them 70% of my earnings here and that is every month without fail (sometimes more when there is a need). When I was asked by my friends what are my achievements of working for half a decade in abroad, I answered them i send my 2 brothers in college.
Yes, they finished college. But, if you asked me how did they become after? still the same, living in our house. My brother next to me got married, had a child and still stays in our house. He find job though, but it is not enough. Our youngest whom i send in school as well lives in our house, jobless. In short, I failed for investing on their education. I don't have regrets on sending my 2 brothers in school but maybe, if I decided to keep that money with me, perhaps I have already paid the 4 years installments of my ultimate dream, HOUSE & LOT.
My mother asked me again to help my niece to college and again I said yes. I'm too good not to say yes to my one and only lady of my life, my Mom.
The next kin that I am supposed to send school is my niece, my eldest sister's 2nd daughter. My sister died last February 2007 of heart ailment. I promised her, before she died that I would help her in sending her siblings to school. But this time, it will be different story.
June 1, I send money for my mother for enrollment of my niece and a week after, i found out that the classes already started and still she was not enrolled yet. I feel like i was slap at my face. It seems that I am the one pushing her to go to school. I am the one who keeps on asking updates and yet, I found out that she is not enrolled yet. Bullshit!
Enough is enough! Today, on my mother's birthday I finally decided that I will never send money anymore to them. Im sick and tired of their reasons every time i asked them on the money that i send for purpose and did not materialize. It's over! 5 years of continous support is good and enough.
Its about time to shine, to love myself, and to fulfill my personal needs.
PS: Siguro naman di ako nagkulang, at di rin ako naging masamang anak...
One of the things that I like most of working here in Dubai is the chance of working with different nationalities aound the world. In our hotel alone, our staff consists of 24 different nationalities aside from the guests which vary from time to time, coming mostly from Mmiddle East, Asia, Europe, and America.
Last night, I was delighted by the group of Sri Lankans making thier lantern in celebration of their festival, please see below brief description. Although I saw the structure some days back, last night was the time it was fully complete. Their cooperation show other people in the accommodation how sincerity and how teamwork wins. There were more than 10 who helped each other.
To all my Sri Lankans colleague headed by Mr. Sarath (Time Keeper) and Mr. Baba (Banquet Asst. Manager), Congratulations for a job well done. Im hoping that the spirit you showed your group to others will inspire them to do the same.
Vesak is the main Buddhist religious festival in Sri Lanka. During this time, people celebrate the triple anniversary of Lord Buddha - his birth, his attaining of Enlightenment and his passing away into Nirvana.
The time i knew that my laptop repair would cost me much, i immediately decided to buy new one even if its "utang", through credit card which i hated most. I really dont buy on idea of borrowing or using services when you dont have the money yet to buy. Aside from the fact that I am still paying the Emirates Airline ticket that i booked for my coming vacation this December. But, without internet isn't easy. I feel disoriented and paranoid. I feel that there is lacking in my life which I can't survive if it continues for a week that is why, within 3 days I have my new one.
Packard Bell NJ65 is my new laptop, swiped at Sharaf Center in IBN Batuta Mall last May 20, 2010 for Dhs. 2,099. Although it is much cheaper than my older one, but as long as it can provides the basics, never mind. I promised myself that I will take good care of it and hoping that it will reach up to 3 years as what my older laptop served me. And mostly, I will try my best not to share it with anybody. I will consider this as my personal and no one should touch it not unless due to reasonable circumstances.
My life goes back to normal. I enjoyed internet to the fullest. Within a week of using it, i get an ample information and entertainment that I need aside of the cheapest way of communication to my family and friends.
EMails, networking sites, videos, etc. Those were the things that i love on the internet. This technoly satisfy me.
I wake up at 8am and went straight to cafeteria for breakfast. I normally skip breakfast but this time I made the effort since I need to take my medicine for toothache. Today is my scheduled tooth extraction so i need to be ready. After breakfast, i took my medicine and prepare my stuff for the day's activities. I place my laptop on the bag for i have plans to bring it to service center for repair.
10am i took our staff bus going to the nearest train station to karama, where my dental clinic is located. at 11:30 i met my dentist as scheduled and started the operation right after.
Ouchhhhh! that was my most painful tooth extraction experience. the doctor took almost 10 minutes pulling my damage tooth with the help of his assistant. he removed 2 teeth. i was operated on my head with 9 stitches when i was hit by a passenger jeep and operation for appendicitis (10 years ago) but the tooth extraction that happen today was the most painful. It was terrible.
After my super painful experience with my dentist, i went out from the clinic with my whole mouth aching, even the aneasthesia is still in effect. The process which took place on the dental chair and the pain i experienced keeps on playing on my head. I realign my thinking by texting friends and reading some notes from my bag but still, it was there.
I took a public bus and went to bur dubai to look for computer service center. When i found one, I handed over my laptop for repair. The technician told me to buy new one than to spend money for repair. He was very helpful and immediately we bid farewell. I was set to buy new laptop.
Later in the evening, i went to IBN Batuta Mall to buy a new laptop and walaahhh! im typing this entry to my new one (packard bell). I hope this will last for 3 years as what my acer laptop gave me.
Dahil walang guests sa lobby naisipan kong umikot na lang sa resort area gamit ang club car. Ito ang ginagawa ko kapag gusto kong magpalipas ng oras o di kaya’y mag-isip ng kung ano-ano.
Nang akoy pabalik na sa lobby ay nakita ko ang isang Nanay akay-akay ang kanyang dalawang anak. Niyaya ko silang sumakay pero nahiya yata, pinapatulog daw nya ang kanyang bunso na noo’y nakaupo sa trolly. Pero ang panganay nyang anak na lalaki ay di nahiyang nagpaalam sa Nanay at umupo sa aking tabi. Pagkatapos naming umikot ay biglang nasabi ng bata na sa tingin ko ay nasa 8 years old pa, “Thank You!”
Lubos akong nasiyahan sa sinabi ng bata. Randam ko ang taos puso nyang pasasalamat na mahirap mo nang mahanap sa mga may edad na. Di man kami lubosang nag-kaintindihan dahil sya ay Russian, alam kong napasaya ko sya at ganun din naman sya sa akin.
Ang mga ganitong bagay, bagamat simple ang syang tunay na nagpapaligaya sa akin. Sinulat ko to ngayon, dahil gusto kong ipaalala na maraming dapat ipasalamat at dapat ikatuwa. Di ko man gaanong nagugustuhan ang takbo ng aking buhay ngayon dahil siguro napuno ako ng inggit sa iba, nasa akin pa rin kong pano ako liligaya. Dapat makuntento at huwag masyadong bumilib sa sarili...
I was invited to a black birthday party of our company nurse, Nina. She is very sweet and friendly. She invited almost all Filipinos to attend. The highlight was showing her pictures with family and relatives from overhead projector that the accommodation staff had set up for the event. It was fun watching the pictures taken from her very early years up to the present.
I was with 2 wacky gays Benjie and Rodel during the party. I don't care of what other people might think who were present, as long as I behave well and very happy. They might think that I changed a lot but who cares...
I woke up this morning with tears in my eyes. I dreamed of my mother expressing how she loves me through words written on a sheet of paper. Although it was just a short dream but it was so clear that made me cry. When I woke up, I remember that February 13, next day will be my sister’s 3rd year death anniversary and cried more.
We have a gap with my family right now. 3 weeks ago, I texted my family that March will be my last financial support to them which I think threaten them. I told them that I am planning to go home soon and needs enough funds for me to start back home. For the last few months or when the crisis hits Dubai, my income is getting worse compared to what I had on my first two years. Before, I can support them at least on what they request but this time, I felt anxious. I feel insecure on my financial status, career or even self-actualization. For the last 5 years of working on this company, I am still on the same position. No promotion, no increments. There are lots of questions bothering me lately that lead me to depression. Envy, jealousy or greed might be the word to say but wither it is less or more it still exists on my body.
I don’t know where to start but one thing for sure, I am not ready to go back home yet. I have a better life here in Dubai compare to what is waiting for me in Davao. There might be misconception on how I see life lately but I don’t have a choice except to accept and embrace it, face the challenges and be strong.
The following might help me:
Pray
I will love my self first and stop pushing to the limits if it’s not possible. Enjoy and Relax, spend, indulge.
Be contended and work on what you have: ask less act more
Don’t fight with my friends here in Dubai
Try to detach a little bit or put a gap to my family. Anyway, my family is always my home base.
Envy, greed and jealousy. Channel it in the right way. How? Think this: their experience might be worse than what you have
Focus on plans
Etc, etc…
“Bahala na si Batman!” I am not use with this phrase but what I can do.
Because I was not invited on my friend’s (AMOR) birthday party, I contented myself browsing the photos I took during my vacation in the Philippines last April – May, 2009.
Look what I’ve got! My close friend, in jeans...
From Brusko Gwapito young man to….
Katrina Halili wanna be! bwahahahahahaha!
So girls, be careful of whom you kiss for.
I miss this guy terribly. Thanks bro! Hanggang sa muling pagkikita.
I was bothered of the noise from the room in front of my window (Amor’s place – Spa Therapist). They were shouting for joy and singing happy birthday to which I don’t know who is the celebrant. I try to busy myself doing personal stuff but my mind keep on asking why I was not invited. Going to parties here without invitation is a common, but I seldom do that or if not at all times. I was also tempted to peek from my window on what is going on and felt bad that most of my close colleagues and friends were at the party.
I contended myself the privilege to be alone. I browse the internet and watch video clips: Pinoy Big Brother, TV Patrol, and some music video from youtube were just a few I watched. I updated my personal bulletin board on the wall and vacuum the floors. Lastly, writing this blog entry.
People from the party might be happy if I join them. But, I decided to stay in my room for my personal belief and principle that you have to sacrifice for a greater pleasure. I might miss the party this evening but who knows, I might not enjoy if I push myself. Or, there might be a big celebration to come that those who did not invite me will cry of envy, (BITTER Ocampo) lol!
I was 20 when I first read article about Bed Bar, the most famous gay-oriented bar in the Philippines. From that time my curiosity in the place increased and promised myself that I will go no matter what it takes. I will fly from Davao City to Manila to experience gay life in the Big City.
Friday – April 3, 2009 all curiosity that I had 9 years ago about Bed Bar was answered. It was a night full of laughter, dancing, drinking and of fun during my vacation in the Philippines from working here in Dubai.
When we were at the Entrance with my cousin Charlie, I already have idea what will happen. I hesitantly asked the lady on the ticket booth of what is inside and she asked me if I’m straight. I only answered her smile and she immediately teased me “uyyyyy! Si Sir pa-effect!” which means she did not instantly recognise me as gay.
We entered the place quite early and found out that there were less people inside, so we decided to sit on the nearby bar. After a round of beer we decided to get inside and were surprised how the place attracted club goers to its maximum capacity.
This is it, the party of a lifetime. I saw different gay people on their best look drinking and dancing with gorgeous hunk men half naked dancing on the top of the ledge. I was so happy and enjoying every minute. When suddenly, Charlie grabbed me to the side and wants me to meet a common friend. It was Joseph, a gay guy from Lebanon whom we’ve met and fucked with in Dubai. He loves Pinoys so much. I was overwhelmed to see him in the place and want to show how warm Filipinos are but he asked me if I am drunk. I think I scared him instead of showing my hospitality.
Then I met Doc Tony who used to take photos in the place and gave the password to access his gallery online. I also met Mugen, a blogger whom I followed for some time. He was one of the personalities I am planning to meet during my vacation and it happened unexpectedly. I was also invited by a group of 3 to go with them after the night but was so scared to dive in because I don’t know the city very well. Public Display of Affection was also very open and rampant, I saw couples holding their hands together and kissing without care to others.
The staff and waiters are very friendly as well and very sensitive on the guests’ needs. No wonder why this bar, despite the crisis still pass the border line. Still the most visited gay dance club in the Philippines.
The night ended with coffee on the street in front of Silya. It was very memorable. My curiosity in the place was not only answered but I met people who can understand each other. I feel like a cell phone fully charged by the good vibes I get from the place.
The following day, Saturday, we went back (hehehe!) and still have fun.
Now, memories are still on and going back to Bed Bar is still on my list to visit when I will have my vacation this December. My virgin pass was a great pleasure that needs to be revisited if not regularly.
We were lucky to be invited for the opening day of the Chinese Circus and Dolphin Spectacular Show at Dubai Creek Park’s Dolphinarium. The show cost Dhs. 120 (Php 1,500) per person but thanks to yours truly that we get it for free by communicating to their sales manager. The hotel also provided us with transportation so it was a hassle and expense free trip.
I was with Geraldine (Business Center Secretary) Leya, Rubi, Wendy (Guest Relations Officer) Aileen (OTS) Supervisor, Amor (Spa Therapist).
The show was great although most of the time were Chinese Circus performers were on stage. But I was amazed when the dolphins had their time. Dancing, flipping on the air, were just few of their tricks. The seals were equally outstanding as well. I keep on asking myself how long they spent to teach these creatures.
We departed the place with empty stomach so we decided to eat. It was the best McDonalds’ food I ever tasted for years. I finished 2 cheese burgers, large fries, and large coke in less than 20 minutes. GUTOM! We had fun.
As promised I will be posting some snapshots from the party celebrating yours truly and some close friends after I received the award as employee of the month (EOTM). Before anything else, I would like to thank Gilbert and Bregis, my 5* chefs for giving their time. The party started at 8pm and blasted at around 10pm when most of the afternoon shift came. It was just a simple dinner (3 dishes) but loads of Indian whisky bottles. Automatically, BANGENGE! I’m a party addict to the point I do gate crash, but making one is so exhausting. Preparation, expenses, and the after party realization: cleaning, washing, and hang-over.
Nevertheless, no regret. Share your blessing. My apology to those whom I want to be with but the invitation was not up for them due to circumstances. To all who came to celebrate with me, Thank You!
Akalain mo ba namang napansin din ako (after long time), EMPLOYEE of the MONTH: January 2010. Thank you (teary eyes)!
I been working in the company for almost 5 years and yet this is the only time they see my effort. I received citations and was nominated for the same aside from the wonderful and inspiring comments from guests, but this time: its official, a certification and a cash prize. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the General Meeting and pose to cameras while receiving my award (char!) because it was a fucking busy day at the lobby. I was just shocked when our Head of Department and colleagues congratulated me after the meeting.
Nevertheless, I am so happy. I was not expecting and don’t even know that I am nominated. Anyway, I am hoping that this award will drive me to do more, to be at my best at all times.
Salamat sa mga nagtiwala. Honestly, I waited for this. I might be too much humble or less assertive person especially on my contribution to the team, but this is what I believe in: “Wag magbuhat ng sariling bangko”.
Thank you Migs for your wonderful blog, it keeps on reminding me to accept and love yourself first before you can spread it out to others.
Thank you Migs for MGGFF that makes me find friends the easiest way. Friends that will listen, understand, and will keep you up all the time.
Thank you Migs for MGGFF that I find friends even I’m here in Dubai. Yann, Ares, Jason, Tsin and all those I constantly chat with online.
Thank you Migs for I met Ms.G, a very wonderful person that on behalf of her achievements and status in life, she was so accommodating and warmth on the 2 meetings that we had here in Dubai.
One of the good things that happened to me last year was when I became a member (since September 2009) of MGGFF or Manila Gay Guy Friends Forever, a networking site made by the author of Manila Gay Guy blog exclusive for his readers. The site is like my extended family on line. It provides me a place where you can meet other people, express your thoughts and inspire you to live life. What more interesting is that everybody has a common denominator, which is being gay.
Our first meeting with members of MGGFF UAE was last October. Ares, Yann, Tsin, Thor and myself were just so delighted of what happened that is why we decided to do it again last November and the experience was equally memorable.
Today, we met again and with a new member of MGGFF coming from Bangkok, Thailand - Ms. G. She was so adorable and full of life. She can make you laugh in the middle of storm of perhaps when your boat is sinking. She has all the stories to tell to make your day enjoyable behind the pressure of work, family and people around you.
The meeting was very good. I might be the weakest link of the group (less stories to tell and I feel so awkward of my TAGLISH) but they made me feel comfortable.
KUDOS to Ms. G and Yann who is so generous to pay the bill!
After having no day off for 2 successive weeks because of the holiday season, at last I had it today. I washed clothes, clean my room and off to the nearest mall from our accommodation, IBN Batuta Mall.
I took my lunch at the mall then a cup of coffee with a book while waiting for the screening time of my most anticipated movie, AVATAR. "This is life!" I told myself as I entered the movie house with a large size soda and loads of pop corn.
I almost raise my hand to touch the characters when the first scene appeared on the screen. It was my first time to watch a movie in 3D and I was amazed on how it goes right in front my eyes. The movie was so good and it was one of the best.
I went out from the mall so inspired and energized. I did not wait for our staff bus and decided to take the bus and continue reading my book.
The gentleman wearing a red bull cup works in ENOC, an oil company in Dubai and beside him is an Engineer working in Al Kaleej Newspaper. He's the one who paid our super yummy soup. The man in white bull cup is a professional boxer trainer. Bisaya pud from Calinan but lives in Manila.
The gentleman wearing a red bull cup works in ENOC, an oil company in Dubai and beside him is an Engineer working in Al Kaleej Newspaper. He's the one who paid our super yummy soup. The man in white bull cup is a professional boxer trainer. Bisaya pud from Calinan but lives in Manila.
I was with Geraldine (Business Center Secretary) Leya, Rubi, Wendy (Guest Relations Officer) Aileen (OTS) Supervisor, Amor (Spa Therapist). 
We departed the place with empty stomach so we decided to eat. It was the best McDonalds’ food I ever tasted for years. I finished 2 cheese burgers, large fries, and large coke in less than 20 minutes. GUTOM!
We had fun.
The party started at 8pm and blasted at around 10pm when most of the afternoon shift came. It was just a simple dinner (3 dishes) but loads of Indian whisky bottles. Automatically, BANGENGE!
I’m a party addict to the point I do gate crash, but making one is so exhausting. Preparation, expenses, and the after party realization: cleaning, washing, and hang-over.
