Latest Novel

I crapped this photo from a group shot released by Bookware Publication. It's my latest romance novel. Oh yes. How very timely. I cannot decide though if the girl looks like a mash-up version of Marian Rivera & Kim Chiu or Jessa Zaragosa.

Remember, don't judge the book by its cover. Seriously!

Remembering The 1995 World Youth Day

How time flies. About this time, sixteen years ago, the largest Papal gathering in Roman Catholic history (current world record holder) happened in Manila. More than 300 thousand Catholic youth from around the globe travelled to the Philippines just to attend the 1995 World Youth Day. The Rizal Park or Luneta saw about 4 million people during the last mass headed by Pope John Paul II. 

And I was there. 

I saw how millions prayed and showed their faith to God. It was the most amazing experience. 

And I will never forget this song "Tell The World of His Love" because it brings back a lot of wonderful memories and good feelings. 

Another song that played a role in the 1995 World Youth Day is "Shine Jesus Shine."

This year, the World Youth Day will be held in Spain (August 2011).

VIVA SR STO NINO!

Today, we are celebrating the 799th year of our Sto Nino Festival in Kalibo, Aklan. Our Ati-atihan Festival, though not being highlighted that much compared to other events- is actually the 'Mother of All Festivals.'

Yes- we started it all.

I remember my grandmother telling me before that even during the Japanese occupation- our town continued to celebrate the traditional Sto Nino Festival. Yes, not even the World War II was able to stop the Aklanons in giving honor to the Child Jesus. 

A few years ago, a friend of mine made this comment while we were strolling the town plaza amidst the drums and street-dancing.

"This is why we Aklanons are such good dancers. Even the kanto boys can dance!"

Which was true. Find anyone who grew up in Aklan, especially in Kalibo- beat the drums and you could see him/her swaying... or at least moving to the beat. Add a lyre and you'll see some dance steps.

It comes out naturally- you know- our dance skills. Most of us grew up surrounded by drums and lyre. It is part of our tradition and our culture. We dance to honor our Sto Nino. We could dance everyday for two weeks and it's not even enough. 

Viva Sr Sto Nino! Viva! Hala Bira! Hala Bira! Viva!

I practically grew up chanting 'Viva Kay Sr Sto Nino Viva! Hala bira' while street-dancing. It was already a way of life- we do it every third week of January (third Sunday). 

I feel bad that I cannot join my family and friends in celebrating our festival this year. It breaks my heart that I am here in Manila and they are in Kalibo- keeping up with our traditional Ati-atihan Festival. 

I may not be there to see the 799th festival. But I promise to be at the 800th Sto Nino Festival in Kalibo.

And that's a vow.