AC Dimatatac

longing...

2012-02-14T18:55:00.003+08:00

I know its that time of the year wherein almost everyone is going gaga over love but here I am feeling stupid as ever.

For my special someone, I love you like no other but I know your not the one

Colorblind by Dresden Dolls

i love you like a brother
and i love you like a child
and i love you like a lover
and i love you dumb and colorblind
and i love you like a mother
even after all you've done
and i love you like no other
but i know
youre not the one...

and i loved you in bright orange
and in violet and in green
and i loved you in such colors
as your eyes have never ever seen
and i loved the way you acted
but your one trick pony's dead
and i loved you unprotected
but you only love in
red

i know its dark for good
i never listen when i should
you only see in black and white
so go on back to your own kind
and i'll go back to mine

i love you like a brother
and i love you like a child
and i love you like a lover
and i love you dumb and colorblind
and i love you like a mother
even after all she's done
and i love you like no other
but i know youre not the one...

Hoping that I can finally let it go....

Day 215-213: Birthday Song

2012-02-09T13:31:00.005+08:00

Yesterday is our Nanay's 86 birthday and almost everyone in the neighborhood attended her party. Chicken, fish, pancit and lots and lots of cake we're served and of course our dear lola is excited in entertaining them. Its good to see that she's healthy and drinking beer again hehe.

As the day ends her best friend came along to spend a few days with her. I overheard them talking and laughing over a television show and it makes me think of Tatay. I know she's missing him a lot after all its been 8 years since he passed away but as I look at her I know that she's happy and contended with her life. She's a very strong willed woman who is blessed by a loving husband and a good family. I wish to hear her hearty laughter more in the coming years and continue to be an inspiration for all of us.

As a took this photo of her it makes me think of the "Birthday Song" of Don Mclean. I know that if Tatay is alive he will surely sing this to her. Hehe so 'Nay ako na lang muna ang magdedicate ng kantang eto para sayo....

Birthday Song

If I could say the things I feel, it wouldn't be the same
Some things are not spoken of, some things have no name
Though the words come hard to me, I'll say them just for you
For this is something rare for me this feeling is so new

You see, I love the way you love me
I love the way you smile at me
I love the way we live this life we're in

Long ago I heard the song that lovers sing to me
And through the days with each new phrase I hummed that melody
And all along I loved the song but I never learned it through
But since the day you came along, I've saved it just for you

You see, I love the way you love me
I love the way you smile at me
I love the way we live this life we're in

I don't believe in magic but I do believe in you
And when you say you believe in me there's so much magic I can do

Now you see me, now you don't: watch me dive below
Deep down in your love lake where the sweet fish come and go
And I might sink and I might drown but death don't mean a thing
'Cause life continues right or wrong when I play this birthday song

I learned from you, and you can't even sing

We love you Nanay and happy happy birthday!!!

Spare Baguio trees from greed and corruption!!

2012-02-09T13:28:00.001+08:00

Save Baguio trees 2-day protest | Greenpeace Philippines

A very productive weekend indeed (photos by yours truly)

day 219-216: Fun Run!!!

2012-01-29T14:25:00.004+08:00

Thousands of advocates from NGOs and community groups join the Anti-Coal Fun Run in Olongapo City organized by Sikad Subic a group that campaigns against the setting-up of coal fired power plants in the city.

day 225-220: year of the dragon

2012-01-22T14:26:00.001+08:00

Kung Hei Fat Choi to all :)

day 229-226: a day in the beach

2012-01-16T20:49:00.009+08:00

I always love beaches for the following reasons:

its the perfect place to get your perfect tan only if you do it right :)

a good place for relaxation and bonding with family and friends

people watching weeh :)

Lastly, finding a good companion such as these two adorable cats.

day 235-230: Hala Bira!!

2012-01-15T13:27:00.002+08:00

The mother of all Philippine festivals, Kalibo Ati-Atihan is consists of tribal dancing parade and ethnic music that accompanied by indigenous costumes and weapons. Its been observed every third Sunday of January in which people smear thmeselves of charcoal or any black substance to look like Aetas.

The name Ati-Atihan means "to be like Aetas" or "make believe ati's". It started at around 13th century wherein a group of Malay chieftains or "datus" fled from Borneo and accepted by the Ati's the early settlers in Panay Island. Its a celebration to seal a peaceful pact between two different races and cultures. It became a religious feast in 1750 wherein a companion priest of Fray Andres Urdaneta and explorer Miguel Lopez de Legaspi baptized in one day 1,000 inhabitants of the town and surrounding settlements in the place. Since then its been celebrated with masses and novenas to their Patron Saint Sto.Nino.

As time passes by,people add modern touch to the festival such as modern type of Ati-Atihan dance and used of creative masks instead of charcoals. The drum beats are also in tune of some pop music. But the spirit of the festival is still there and it became more lively with these new features. People from other provinces and even in Manila visit this place just to participate in the lively street dancing and witness the creativity of the costumes and props of the locals and the Aetas themselves. Many devotees are also flocking the church to attend the masses and novenas as they believe that they will be bless by the miraculous power of Sto.Nino.

day 237-236 : letters

2012-01-13T18:27:00.003+08:00

Last December I did a general cleaning in my room and this is what I've found:

Reading old letters from my friends, relatives and my mom is like getting to know myself all over again. Its quite nostalgic and fun

Thanks everyone for these timeless memories :)

day 239-238: murky future?

2012-01-12T14:39:00.007+08:00

Do you want your future drinking water to be like this?

If not then start doing something like this..

Our water is not a dumping ground stop polluting it and start protecting it!

*story on this site

day 245-240: Viva Nuestro Senor Padre Jesus Nazareno!!

2012-01-10T11:29:00.006+08:00

Its an annual event in the Philippines wherein people all over the country gather in Quiapo Manila to celebrate the feast of the Black Nazarene. It is a life-sized, dark-colored wooden sculpture of Jesus Christ carrying the cross, believed to be miraculous by many devotees.

It first came in the country about 1600 through the galleon from Acapulco Mexico. Its said to be made by an anonymous Mexican carpenter and its color is attributed to a fire on the ship carrying it, charring the image from its original fair tone into its present dark complexion.

This year more than 2 million devotees attended the procession from Quirino Grandstand up to the Quiapo Church. The whole parade lasted for more than 22 hrs and the causalities reach up to 1,000.Nevertheless the faithful will continue to participate on this event every year.

day 246: devotion

2012-01-07T15:45:00.001+08:00

what is devotion?it is something that we need to show in public or something that we ponder in private?

day 259-247: the best of 2011

2012-01-02T15:14:00.016+08:00

Time for some reflections, the following 12 photos are the highlights of my 2011.

January- its good to see my college friends again after so many years.

February- my first try in shooting wedding (thanks for the opportunity Kuya Mel sa uulitin :)

March- spending my birthday in Saigon with my dear friend and classmate Chiloy ^_^

April- taking lighting sessions with Kuya Mel as preparation for my portrait portfolio for ACFJ

May- after one year of studying and 6 months of working for our final portfolios, we're finally done weeh!! Thanks so much for all our mentors and for the good memories and hardships my dear batch mates hehe kudos to all :)

June- Coron!!After our 2 weeks of sleepless nights preparing for the defense its time to sit back, relax and enjoy the beach weeh!!

July- its good to be back in our province after 8 years maupay!!

August- ever been inside a control room of a nuclear power plant?hehe this is one heck of an experience!! hoping the government will covert this mothball BNPP into a more productive way as a tourist destination rather than operating it again.

September- again another once in a lifetime experience to enter a cold storage area for fish the temperature is below 8 degrees Celsius brr.....

October- my first solo exhibit, Realities a photo story on Cosplay being shown in SM Mall of Asia during the 2011 Cosplay Mania thanks everyone for making this possible :)

November- travel again hehe this time in Angkor Wat wherein I met new friends and great photographers

December- after 4 years its good to spend Christmas with the whole family in the Philippines :)

2011 is a good year thanks to my family, friends and all the blessings and challenges Lord God for this new year I pray that Your will should be done again Glory be to the Highest!!

Deadly beauties- a photo story on pyrotechnic

2012-01-02T14:57:00.006+08:00

As the year ends so does my third story for the year 2011...

Deadly beauties

Every time there is a big event such as New Year or fiestas people always celebrate it with a loud bang from firecrackers and exhibitions from fireworks display.They do it out of traditions or just the simple thrill of listening to its loud noise and watching the beauty it possess in the night sky. But how many people really know what's behind this complex beauty?

According to the Department of Health (DOH), a total of 476 people, including children, were injured by firecrackers and stray bullets during the Philippines’ observance of the holiday season. Out of this number, 454 are cause by pyrotechnic products. The figures already decline by 13 percent from last year's data of 536.The accidents are largely cause by firecrackers especially Piccolo, a type of pyrotechnic which is small but can cause a loud bang and severe injuries. The victims are suffering from eye injuries or loss of fingers and most of them are children. A medical personnel from Jose Reyes Memorial Medical center is saying that the government should educate the public all year-round on the dangers and hazards posed by the use of fireworks and firecrackers.

A campaign launch by DOH this year called Aksyon Paputok Injury Reduction (APIR) gives warnings and alternatives in pyrotechnics such as prohibiting children to use any kinds of firecrackers and use other noisemakers such as "torotot" as a substitute.

Even though every year Filipinos are facing the same dilemma out of this products, the industry cannot be simply taken out because its been in the country since pre- Spanish era, being brought by the Chinese and taught to our ancestors.

Pyrotechnics has its origin in Santa Maria, Bulacan it started as early as 1876 by Valentin Sta.Ana. He then passed it down to his children which established the first fireworks factory in this town. As time passes by they gain more knowledge on fireworks making that the industry boom and give birth to other factories and stores in Bocaue, Baliuag, Norzagaray, Angat towns and spread all over the provinces in the country.

The industry faces a lot of difficulties from the terrible accident that occur in Meycauayan City that killed 26 people to the banning of production during the Marcos Era. But people are still pursuing this kind of business that is why in 1992 the Philippines created Republic Act 7183 - an act regulating the sale, distribution and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, also known as Firecrackers/Pyro Law.

Since then about 500 manufacturers can be found in the towns of Bocaue, Santa Maria and Baliuag some of them even join international competitions such as the Macau International Fireworks Display.

It cannot be denied that this line of business pose a lot of safety and health issues to the workers hence they establish a Pyrotechnics Regulatory Board to address these issues. The board duty is to make safety as a top priority of every manufacturers not just for the sake of their workers but also for the people who uses their products. They also provide ways to promote the industry by making quality a top priority of the makers rather than quantity in order to be in a competitive level to China.They also encourage the makers to produce much safer pyrotechnic product. One manufacturer and distributor called Nation Fireworks are focusing more on making fireworks display rather than firecrackers.

As of 2000, the industry is downgrading due to illegal makers and "fly by night" type of manufacturers and dealers. But groups such as Philippine Pyrotechnics Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc. (PMDAI) is working hard to professionalize the industry by mandating every makers to register their businesses legally. They also hold safety workshops and seminars all over the country to educate the makers on how they can maintain their businesses and achieve high class quality fireworks.

Even with these efforts a lot of manufacturers and dealers are thinking of giving up the business and take other jobs because of the difficulties they are facing. Its not easy to give it up especially if its been in their family for centuries and it will always remain as part of the traditions. One can never deny the yearly causalities that the country is suffering because of this industry but this can be avoided if only everyone can be responsible in making and handling this delicate products.

This photo essay showcase the two sides of this complex industry, the beauty of its creation and the danger that comes with it.

day 260: Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-26T17:40:00.002+08:00

Its been 4 years since we spent Christmas in the Philippines with the whole family and here is how we celebrated it...

Merry Christmas to all!!

day 264-261: hanapin nyo kami ni DJ sa Paskuhan :)

2011-12-26T17:23:00.006+08:00

My couz and I attended last Dec 16 Paskuhan event in UST, a night of free concert and fireworks display. We had fun playing "lost in the crowd" photo-ops see? ^_^

day 265: traveling feet

2011-12-26T17:18:00.002+08:00

“A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” – Lao Tzu

I never imagine to go back again in Angkor Wat after two weeks but the return trip sure is fun together with my mentors Lea and Grace.Its the lack of planning and pure adventure that really makes the trip memorable and of course its our bonding moments kuno hehe.

Ulitin natin to guys :)

day 276-266: 6 days, 3 countries, new friends, great adventure :)

2011-12-04T13:12:00.015+08:00

Where was I a week ago hmm let the photos tell you my tale...

Bus terminal in Bangkok to Siem Riep. I've waited for about 7 hrs before I can board that bus argh!!!

The culmination of AngkorWat Photo Festival 2011. This last night of the festival they showcase the works of 27 young photographers who participated in this year's workshop. I was able to be inspired and to meet new friends and great Asian and Westerner photographers. What a great night of learning, drinking and just having fun hehe :)

Angkor Wat temple!!! Weeh got a tiring and fun tour together with Chiloy's batch mates in the workshop. Too bad were not able to see all the temples but at least we got this nice sunset

After walking in the temple I finally experience a very tickling foot massage :) and its only for 2 dollars with free beer

Phnom Penh a four hour bus trip from Siem Riep, we only stay here for one night just to see the photo festival.

One of the exhibit story in the Phnom Penh photo festival. Its a work of one of Chiloy's batch mate, I just love the lighting in these photos. Good portraits!

Back in the city of motorcycles hehe. Good evening Saigon!!

A pretty cat guarding the bag store ^_^

The greatest ice cream in the world!! Haha why is it that we always have a hard time looking at this place imagine we even go inside a travel agency just to ask for directions ^^;

What a good way to spend our last night in Saigon, eating in our favorite noodle place :)

Great travel, new friends, inspiring photos hehe life is good :)

day 282-276 portraits

2011-12-04T12:49:00.011+08:00

My most favorite type of photography is portraits because it focuses more on the emotions and real life situation of the subjects. Here are some portraits I've taken this year.

This is the famous "Zorro" from UP Diliman he's a popular face in big rallies or if your just jogging in UP Oval you'll frequently see him. Its just straight shooting, full body to emphasize his costume and blur background

An old woman reading a newspaper in her make shift house along Pasay Road. This portrait give more sense of place of the subject and taken in a candid way.

An environmental portrait of a fireworks maker in Baliuag Bulacan

This is Kuya Monching a punk pedophile from Recto Manila, another environmental portrait. Doing black and white portraits are good because it emphasize more on the shadows and highlights of the subject's face.

My friend's batch mate in this year's AngkorWat Photo Workshop. The best lighting that you can get in an indoor portraits is the window lighting. See its effect on the face of the subject.

Cosplay!! Hehe my favorite subject in doing glamor portraits are cosplayers as you can see they are very colorful and they know how to pose :)

This is my latest portrait taken by my good friend Chiloy in AngkorWat just a week ago. In doing outdoor portraits maximize available light and always open your eyes in spots with good lighting and composition hehe just like this one (thanks friend :)

day 289-283: shapes, lines, speed and frames

2011-11-18T12:01:00.006+08:00

What attracts the audience to a photo is a good combination of different composition elements such as lines, shapes, speed and framing. See the following photos:

lines from the pavement and shapes and color of the road blockade and the sweeper

framing of the workers in the leaves and the cable wires

cable wires and the flatform of the workers

framing using the gate

speed of the moving train

slow shutter for the moving people and framing the subject in between them

shapes and colors of the stereos and DVD players

Be very observant, you don't need high-end cameras and equipment to achieve a spectacular photo just compose well. Maximize these elements and you can make a simple photograph strong and catchy for your audience ^_^

day: 295-290 - more colors

2011-11-18T11:56:00.006+08:00

295- what you see is what you get

294-made in china

293- year of the dragon

292- different generation

291- vendors and customers

290- monogataris (stories)

day 296: Pasko na!Pasko na!

2011-11-09T18:51:00.002+08:00

Its the season to be jolly la la la la la la la...

For this week's theme is colors, a very important component in photography because it gives life and appeal to the audience. Its one of the things that caught attention to the audience. But for me colors is just the heart of photography :)

day 298-297: densha

2011-11-07T19:48:00.002+08:00

La vida es sueño (Life is a Dream)

¿Qué es la vida? Un frenesí.
What is life? A frenzy.
¿Qué es la vida? Una ilusión,
What is life? An illusion
una sombra, una ficción,
a shadow, a fiction,
y el mayor bien es pequeño;
and the greatest good is small;
que toda la vida es sueño,
that all life is a dream,
y los sueños, sueños son.
and dreams are dreams.

day 300-299: ang mariposa at mga pusa

2011-11-05T17:24:00.003+08:00

Hey just posting some photos that I've originally taken in colored but turn it to black and white just to emphasize highlights and shadows.

day 301: a road less travel

2011-11-03T21:37:00.000+08:00

Rainy November it is...

day 302: araw ng patay

2011-11-02T18:16:00.001+08:00

a day with the living and the dead

day 303: aklat

2011-11-01T19:20:00.001+08:00

This month of November I'll be posting elements of composition in photography. For the first week it will be the "monochrome tales" singles that are taken in black and white.

During 1800s photos can only be produce in black and white. Its how they tell stories of events and portraits of well-known people. Nowadays, photographers of all genre still uses this form of composition to showcase more the depth of the emotion of their subjects and give strong impression on their stories.

On my first post are books being sold on the streets of Manila in a very cheap price. See how the shadows are being emphasize here using black and white.

day 306 - 304: the way we prepare for the dead

2011-10-29T17:21:00.006+08:00

Flowers for the dead. A florist arranges the flowers she sells for the all souls day in Dangwa Flower Market, Manila. 29 October 2011

Scare time. People buy hallowen accesories and costumes in Quiapo Manila as part of their preparations for the coming all souls day. 29 October 2011

Going home. A man reads a tabloid while waiting for the bus to go. People flock in bus terminals to spend the long holidays in their provinces as part of remembering All Souls Day. Manila, 29 October 2011

day 307: read the sign

2011-10-29T17:14:00.001+08:00

Read the sign. Bikes are park in a "no parking zone" in Recto Manila. Commuters nowadays prefer bikes as their way of transportation hence society groups are pushing the government to assign designated bike lanes and parking space just like those in the UK and USA.29 October 2011

day 308: donations for the blind

2011-10-29T17:11:00.001+08:00

Donations for the blind. Blind beggars perform in the streets of Manila as they ask for alms.29 October 2011

day 309: Practice makes perfect

2011-10-27T16:27:00.002+08:00

Practice makes perfect. A group of students practice baseball in an empty lot in Meycauayan Bulacan.27 October 2011

day 310: Never lost

2011-10-27T06:48:00.002+08:00

Never lost. Passerby's watch over an artist as he paints a portrait of a couple inside a mall in Ortigas, Metro Manila. The cost of painted or charcoal draw portraits cost over 300 to 800 pesos.26 October 2011

day 311: End of the day

2011-10-23T18:23:00.001+08:00

End of the day. Workers from a car repair shop are finishing up as the day ends.22 October 2011.Bocaue, Bulacan

day 312: preparations

2011-10-23T18:16:00.003+08:00

Preparations. These fuses are used to light up "fountain", "Apollo silver" or any fireworks display. It usually made of small amounts of gun powder, strings and paper. As the "ber" months begin pyrotechnics makers are preparing their products for the coming of the holidays.22 October 2011.Baliuag, Bulacan

day 317-313: workers in the streets part 2

2011-10-21T17:54:00.006+08:00

Here is part 2 of the street photography season

Ukay-ukay.Mother and daughter look at the used clothes for sale in an "ukay-ukay" or "surplus store" along E.Rodriguez Manila. These stores are very common in Manila because they sell designer used clothes in a very cheap price. 20 October 2011

Easy repair. A lady watches the repair man as he do some remedy on her umbrella along the streets of E.Rodriguez Manila.20 October 2011

Angry bird in pink. A balloon vendor arranges his "angry bird" products along the streets of E.Rodriguez Manila.Angry birds is a popular game for android phones and tablets.20 October 2011

Parking lot. Green tricycles park along a bank in E.Rodriguez Manila waiting for passengers.20 October 2011.

In between. A vendor of cold bottled water sells his products along E.Rodriguez Manila.20 October 2011

day 322-318: workers in the streets

2011-10-21T17:44:00.008+08:00

From day 322-313 I'll be posting 10 singles of street photography. These type of photography is telling a story on what is happening in the streets. For me its almost the same as photojournalism but the difference is your telling the story of common people.

Here is the first part. The 10 photos are all taken in just one day and most of them are just in one avenue.

Breakfast.A vendor of soya or commonly known as "taho" is selling his product to a passerby along Lacson Ave., Manila. Taho is a Philippine staple comfort. food made of fresh tofu, vanilla syrup and pearl sago. 20 October 2011

Start of a day.A man arranges leaves from different plants in his stall in Dangwa Flower Market in Manila. Dangwa is known to sell fresh flowers originated in various provinces in North Luzon.20 October 2011

Hanging job. Cable workers fix a street signage for passengers along Espana Boulevard, Manila.20 October 2011

Resting. A vendor of rags rest along a sidewalk in E.Rodriguez Manila.20 October 2011

Livelihood.A vendor of pineapple sells his products along the streets of E.Rodriguez
Manila.20 October 2011

day 323: eye in the sky

2011-10-19T07:53:00.006+08:00

The moon hiding in the clouds last Oct 17, 2011. According to PAG-ASA (Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) expect to see meteor showers from Oct 17-22, its peak will be on the 21st.

day 324: magtanim ay di biro

2011-10-19T07:50:00.005+08:00

Sorry for the late updates so many things happen this past week and I was down with the colds ^^; Anyways here is my supposed to be entry for the blog action day last Sunday (16 Oct) during the World Food Day. Its my photo essay of organic farming in Bacolod, Negros Occidental last 2 years ago. Its an eye-opener experienced of documenting these farmers because they really show hard labor and real passion on what they are doing.

Let's always remember not to waste food and finish it with all gusto. Kudos to all the farmers in the world. Happy World Food day to all ^_^

day 325: blending in

2011-10-19T07:37:00.004+08:00

A cat rest atop of these rusty roof in Manila.15 October 2011

day 328-326: rush hour

2011-10-11T13:50:00.005+08:00

Bumper to bumper. Both public and private vehicles are stuck in a traffic during rush hour in EDSA.

Going home. Commuters from all over the city are hurrying home during the rush hour at the top of a hanging bridge in North EDSA.

Waiting. Passengers are waiting for vans and fx in the terminal area of Trinoma mall, North EDSA.

day 329: Hard worker

2011-10-07T21:08:00.001+08:00

Hard worker. A child vendor of "chicharon" or dried pig skin stands in a jeepney trying to sell his goods.

day 330: Pasko na!

2011-10-06T17:13:00.004+08:00

Pasko na!Passerbys look into Christmas trees and other decoration display along Mc Arthur Highway Meycauayan City. Philippines is said to be the country that has the longest preparation and celebration of Christmas.

day 331: dinner time

2011-10-06T17:08:00.003+08:00

Dinner time. Before going home, people eat street foods like "itlog pugo" also known as quail eggs along North EDSA.

day 332: Morning walk

2011-10-04T16:43:00.002+08:00

An old woman and a child taking a morning walk inside their subdivision in Meycauayan, Bulacan

day 333: worker at night

2011-10-03T21:38:00.002+08:00

A vendor of mangoes waits atop a bridge for customers.

*Theme for this month is photojournalism. I started with feature photos of last weekend Cosplay Mania 2011. For the coming days I'll be posting singles that tells a story about current events, slice of life, spot news, features/lifestyle, portraits, and sports.

This is my favorite genre of photography stay tune for more stories guys

see you,
AC

day 335 and 334: Cosplay Mania 2011

2011-10-03T19:18:00.008+08:00

Last weekend held the biggest cosplay event in the country known as Cosplay Mania 2011. Cosplay is a pop subculture in which people wear costumes and portray their favorite characters from comics,video games, anime, graphic novels, live actions and movies.

Kosupre!!People taking photos of cosplayers is a common site during the first day of Cosplay Mania 2011 in SMX Convention Mall of Asia Pasay City, Philippines.

Archnemesis. Cosplayer portraying as Shockwave, the antagonist in the third movie of Transformers, performs during the Project Cosplay Solo Competition in SMX Malll of Asia, Pasay City, Philippines.

Helping out.Cosplayers help out each other before they do their catwalk

International cosplayers from Thailand perform their skit during the second day of Cosplay Mania 2011

day 336: sa wakas...

2011-09-30T23:48:00.002+08:00

For me the main responsibility of a documentary photographer is to share to the public the story of your subject. Tomorrow and this Sunday, I'll be having a photo exhibit on Realities- a photo story on the social understanding of the pop subculture known as cosplay.

This is my thesis during my diploma course in photojournalism in ACFJ (2010-2011), but its more than just that. For me this is a story of different people who find themselves an interesting culture in which they can share their creativity and individuality to the others.

Thanks to Project 8, Guy Singson, Zoila and Lira of UPAME and Gaz and Annie from UST and cosplay.ph .Its a privilege to document your wonderful stories guys and I hope I'm able to bring justice to it.

This story is dedicated to you and all the cosplayers in the Philippines. Keep the culture alive and let it grow for the future generation.

Many thanks to Lea Guerrero, Arthur Diono, Alex Baluyot, Gigie Cruz-Sy, Cristina Derillo, Jenny Tuazon and for all those who support my one year project :) (hehe I sound like Lolit Solis)

Kudos to all of you!!

day 337: atop

2011-09-29T22:21:00.001+08:00

Manila at night...

day 338: in the corner

2011-09-28T17:20:00.002+08:00

My new corner in the office ^_^

day 339: and it pours

2011-09-27T18:21:00.002+08:00

I woke up today by the strong winds brought by typhoon Pedring, I hope that everyone is alright in their houses and for those who are working and still outside I pray for your safety.

day 340: alma mater

2011-09-26T17:02:00.002+08:00

This is where I spent my elementary and high school years. Established last 1920, this institution helps shape the future of many Bulakenos and still doing a good job of educating the youth nowadays. This place held a lot of fond memories and first time for me like my first dance, first love, first fight, and a lot more.

It stands the test of time and hopefully will remain to do so for the future generation.

Day 341: worship

2011-09-25T16:30:00.003+08:00

Here I am to worship

Verse 1

Light of the world
You stepped down into darkness.
Opened my eyes, let me see.
Beauty that made this heart adore You
Hope of a life spent with You

Chorus

Here I am to worship,
Here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You're my God
You're altogether lovely
All together worthy,
All together wonderful to me

Verse 2

King of all days
oh, so highly exalted
Glorious in heaven above
Humbly You came
To the earth You created
All for love's sake became poor

(Repeat Chorus)

Bridge

I'll never know how much it cost
To see my sin upon that cross
I'll never know how much it cost
To see my sin upon that cross
I'll never know how much it cost
To see my sin upon that cross
I'll never know how much it cost

(Repeat Chorus 2x)

I'll never know how much it cost
to see my sins upon that cross--

day 342: how the monster punch michael jackson

2011-09-24T19:56:00.003+08:00

See the photos below on how the monster from Voltes V punch Michael Jackson hehe

Poor Michael ^_^

day 343: cubao X

2011-09-24T06:53:00.006+08:00

We had dinner and drinks at Freds last night, a bar restaurant in Cubao X which is used to be known as Manila Collective a photo-cafe place. Cubao X is one of my favorite hang-outs in QC, it held a lot of good memories like the time when my college friends used to participate in the annual garage sale, the late night meetings of PCP batch 5 in which always ends up in drinking and talking rather than meeting haha :) and the time when DPJ Batch 6(Diploma course Photojournalism in ACFJ) edit some photos.

(photos courtesy of my friends Nishant top and LJ bottom)

This is also the place when I first get drunk haha thanks to my adviser Sir Alex Baluyot but its a good memory because of all the brain storming that we did for my portfolio.

There are rumors that authorities will take the place down and replace it with a condominium but I doubt it will happen. Cubao X has been a significant place not just because its a market for selling goods but also a place for artists, cooks and book lovers.

I hope it stays so that future generations will have fun experiences such as mine ^_^

day 344: takbo

2011-09-22T17:27:00.001+08:00

"Some people create with words, or with music, or with a brush and paints. I like to make something beautiful when I run. I like to make people stop and say, "I've never seen anyone run like that before." It's more then just a race, it's a style. It's doing something better then anyone else. It's being creative."

-from a running sayings site

day 345: hometown

2011-09-21T14:37:00.002+08:00

Daily traffic in my hometown at Meycauayan Bulacan

day 346: new look

2011-09-20T10:49:00.005+08:00

Our new office set up :)

day 347: ohayou

2011-09-19T06:53:00.002+08:00

a cloudy Monday morning to you guys

day 348: monogatari

2011-09-18T21:19:00.005+08:00

It's the annual book fair event in SMX Convention Center at the SM Mall of Asia. Local and international publication gathered here to sell their books, promote new learning techniques and do book signing for some.

This is the first time I attended this event and I was overwhelmed of the number of people and books (hehe who says printed books are dead huh?! :) Anyways, its good to see that there are still so many who appreciated books even with the fast developments brought by technology.

For me I like reading e-books but I much prefer holding the physical body of the book because its much more personal and friendly for the eyes ^_^

happy reading everyone :)

day 349: ac

2011-09-18T03:51:00.003+08:00

Self portrait- 2011/09/17 by Veejay Villafranca

350: what's left behind

2011-09-17T00:20:00.002+08:00

Just got home from a wonderful dinner with my mentors Grace and Lea. I missed hanging out with them just talking and fooling around till we got tired of each other hehe :) Gawin ulit natin to guys :)

day 351: 40 years of activism

2011-09-15T17:58:00.004+08:00

The founding fathers

Today is the 40th anniversary of Greenpeace, an environmental organization that acts to change attitudes and behaviour, to protect and conserve the environment and to promote peace.

I've been working with Greenpeace since 2007 and its been quite an experience :) This is where I've discovered my passion in photography and been inspired to work beyond my own needs but more for the greater good of everyone.

To be inspire by us watch this video

The new generation

day 352: bro

2011-09-14T21:10:00.003+08:00

He's my younger brother taking BS Bio in UST, he's my only companion since my college years but now he's staying in Manila.

He likes cats and anime just like me but he's a more serious type of person. He's quiet and just like to read books and listen to his MP3 rather than socialize with others. Despite this his a very sweet kid once you get to know him.

Little bro thanks for all the years that we've been together now that your on your own in a big city learn to be more open and enjoy life a little more. Be strong and remember the things our parents thought us. I'm just here as always, take care...

day 353: dusk

2011-09-13T18:02:00.003+08:00

endings are always
sad and melodramatic
yearns us to do more

day 354: tomodachi

2011-09-12T21:35:00.002+08:00

College is one of the best days of my life, this is where I've discovered my passion in story telling, built a relationship with God and met great people that influenced me for who I am today.

One of those people is Jenny, we've been classmate since first year and until now we're still together in our job. I've dedicated this piece for her for reminding me today about some of the important lessons in life. Thanks friend for being there for me, hope to return the favor to you one day. I'm just here always ^_^

day 355: humility

2011-09-11T20:10:00.000+08:00

and He said, " I tell you the truth unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like a child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3-4

An important lesson that we shouldn't forget

day 356: neko

2011-09-10T19:50:00.002+08:00

He's wangwang name after the sound of an ambulance because whenever he meow's he sound like that "wang wang wang wang" He's been our family cat since my college years.

I don't know how old he is now but he's a father of 5 cute kittens and a husband of a very beautiful white cat. His family lives 3 blocks from nanay's home but from time to time he stays there.

We adore him even though he's a very lazy cat but he's a good companion for our nanay. We love you wangwang and stay as cute as you are ever :)

Day 357: no smoking

2011-09-09T22:29:00.001+08:00

Smoking is dangerous to your health but damn I really need one tonight so hard to resist such sweet temptation

Day 358: speed of light

2011-09-08T21:58:00.001+08:00

During my early years of learning photography, I used to loiter in overpass bridges during night to practice. One of my favorite subjects are passing vehicles because I love the challenge of capturing its movement. I recorded the proper speed of the shutter in order to get the effect that I want.

Nowadays, I still used to do this just to capture the feeling of satisfaction that I had back then. The learning doesn't stop in photography it continues no matter how much you are familiar with the camera and the techniques. Its a craft in which one should always practice and practice until you surpass your expectation.

Day 359: nanay

2011-09-07T14:28:00.002+08:00

The phrase "working mother" is redundant. ~Jane Sellman

She's 85 years old but still full of energy to man the store for 7AM-8PM. She's a mother of 4 and a grandmother of 9. She lost her partner 7 years ago but that didn't stop her to be one of the strongholds of the family.

She's selfless
She's adorable
She talks a lot

But above all this she's a blessing from God whom no one can replace. (love you nay :)

Day 360: I-shop

2011-09-06T17:04:00.001+08:00

After almost 3 years of eating in this karinderia we just found out today that its name is I-shop eatery hahaha :)

day 361: ladies in pink

2011-09-05T21:24:00.001+08:00

caption: Si Smurfette ay napunta sa Dr.Lazcano para magpa-detox.

:) thanks guys for this idea as photo no. 361. Anna (Smurfette) and Grace (detox) are friends from work, they love to tease me a lot about anything especially love life hahaha. But I love them because I know I can depend on them anytime (thanks guys mwaah :)

day 362: what one truly feels

2011-09-04T18:43:00.003+08:00

It pours from heaven
To bring comfort or sadness
Amazing isn't it

Day:363 Childhood

2011-09-03T19:18:00.003+08:00

When I was a little girl my dad used to baby sit on me. He put me to sleep in this swing by tying two ends of a blanket. Such a sweet memory....

Day 364: Hero

2011-09-02T16:58:00.007+08:00

Yesterday I mentioned personal as a theme for this month, what do I mean by this? When I conceptualize this project I thought that this will serve as my way of educating and inspiring people on a single photo that I've shoot that day. In order to do so I thought it would be better that in each month or weeks there will be a theme that I will focus on for better story telling and for it to look more organize ^_^

Anyways for this month its personal. For me photography is a very personal medium, its a way of expressing my thoughts and feelings about anything. For this month I'll introduce myself day by day by the photos that I will post.

For 2nd day the title is hero. I'm an anime/manga/comics fan since elementary and it has a huge influence to who I am today. Mga Munting Pangarap ni Romeo,Card Captor Sakura, V for Vendetta are some stories in which I've learned a lot about real life, such as friendship, dreams and love. I think I'll be a fan of these literary pieces for the rest of my life and if ever I'll have children of my own I'll share these inspiring stories to them.

Day 365:Partner

2011-09-01T17:37:00.006+08:00

I've decided to make a 365 days worth of single photos, here is my first entry title my partner.

Well this is not exactly my first "baby" but I decided to use this for this project. Stay tune on the other photos for the next 364 days :) Ops the theme for this month is personal.

see you,
AC

Epic Heroes

2011-08-31T23:19:00.003+08:00

Kosupre or cosplay is a form of pop subculture in which people wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific character from anime, manga, video games, graphic novels and live actions. It is a performance art that started in Japan and continue to grow in different Asian and also western countries. In the Philippines, it started last 2000 as a form of hobby to a bunch of creative kids and now it grow into a kind of culture in which people of all ages can participate.

This October 1 and 2 2011, prepare for the biggest and most exciting cosplay event in the country, Cosplay Mania II. It started last 2008 as a small convention but as years pass by it continue to grow and become more popular. Now on its 4th year, this two day cosplay convention is pack of challenging competitions, creative galleries and cool merchandise.

Prepare to witness cosplayers perform at their best during the project cosplay individual and group competition. This is also the final stage for the Cosplay Tournament of the Champions or Tourch, the nationwide cosplay competition that started last August 2011. This year they also add a new competition exclusive only for kids age 12 and below.Feature also on this event is the popular Costume Building Contest wherein cosplayers will be test on their ingenuity and resourcefulness in costume building within a 5-hour limit. The theme for this year's costume building contest is "Alien Invasion."

This event will also showcase the 10 finest cosplay photos from the Cosplay Snapshot Project and the most creative cosplay video on Costube Contest.

The continue success of Cosplay Mania is brought to you by Cosplay.ph, the largest online community of cosplayers. They're consist of veteran cosplayers and professionals who aim to bring cosplay in the Philippines to its peak and to help Filipino cosplayers to be known across Asia.

The organizers forged and strenghthened its partnership to other Asian countries by bringing in international cosplayers from Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore. Watch out for Pinky Lu Xun of Indonesia, she's part of the cosplay team "The Endless Illusion" and has been been cosplaying for 13 years. From Thailand are re-known cosplayers, YukiGodbless and JiakiDarkness, who won the 2nd place at the Thailand leg of the 2009 World Cosplay Summit. For its 2nd time visit is the famous Singaporean cosplayer Clive Lee who is known from his creative mecha (robot) costumes.These three special guests will conduct cosplay workshop to share their knowledge and tips on perfecting this craft.

Truly this event is worth visiting and its always fun to learn and explore new culture and practices. Its a family-oriented event and everyone will surely enjoy it. The continue growth and popularity of this event only shows that cosplay is not just a fad but its a culture that enhance the creativity of the people at the same time help them gain self-confidence by interacting with different people.

*Cosplay Mania II will be at the SMX Convention Center Function Rooms 3 to 5, SM Mall of Asia Complex Pasay City. The event will start at 11am and run up to 9pm for both days. Buy your tickets now at all SM Cinemas or online at www.smtickets.com.For more info check www.cosplaymania.com

to be inspired again

2011-08-30T17:51:00.005+08:00

Despite the heavy rains last Sunday I attended my classmate Mel Cortez one day wedding photography workshop on his office in Katipunan. Its an information overload day but its worth it. Here's what I've learned:

- in photography professionalism is the no.1 asset that one must learn and practice diligently

- be a versatile photographer be friend everyone (photojournalists,wedding photographers,advertising photographers, fashion, everyone :)

- photojournalism is not only applicable for news its techniques and language can be apply to every genre of photography

- it's not enough that your a good shooter you should also learn to be a good business minded person if you want to succeed in the commercial side of photography

- break the rules!!!hehe that's the only way that you will learn your own techniques

- no matter what achievements you received always be humble

- always share your knowledge always in order for the craft to continue to flourish

- wedding photography is harder than documentary because it has its own discipline and its own ways but you will surely survive as long as you know how to play it well

Lastly, practice and practice and practice your craft until you get better with it and always be open to changes because that's the only way you will survive in photography.

Thanks Kuya Mel, Sir Edwin, Sir Edgar and fellow workshoppers for a day full of learning and inspiration :)

*photo courtesy of Mel Cortez

day off tatts

2011-08-30T16:07:00.011+08:00

Last August 26-27, the annual tattoo expo event called Dutdutan was held at World Trade Center Pasay City, Manila. Its a convention wherein local and international tattoo artists gathered to showcase their art and to educate the public about this eccentric and unique lifestyle.

Its quite a lively event with drum duels, live action combat, bikini open photo shoot by FHM models and of course cat walk of the tattoo works of the artists. Despite of the heavy rains brought by typhoon Mina, a lot of people still attended the event to witness this wonderful craft and of course to enjoy the free show of beautiful models and free drinks ^_^

A tattoo artist from Tribu in which she uses a traditional tool for carving a tattoo on his colleague's ankle

A model showcase her tattoo the Holy Family as part of the portraits category.

A Japanese youkai (demon) tattoo is showcase as part of the portraits category.

Morgan Eyes poses for the photographers during the event, she's an international tattoo artists from Tribal Gear and one of the special guest for this year's Dutdutan.

May this culture continue to grow and may the public be more open to them and accept them as a form of art and creativity.

A long overdue visit

2011-08-05T18:27:00.010+08:00

It's been 7 years since I last went to our home province in Sulat, Eastern Samar and its good to be back again. Last weekend of July I brought my family there to attend the annual town fiesta and here is what I've seen:

The welcome sign atop of San Juanico Bridge, the one that connects Leyte and Samar provinces.

Our old house how nostalgic

Traffic? Well this is new

Now I know the cause of the traffic ^_^

Parishioners looking to a patron saint upon entering the church on the day of the fiesta.

Curacha, is a native dance of the Waray in which the dancers are being showered by money. The money collected in this dance will be part of the town's fund for their projects.

Just to witness again all this stuff that I've grown up with is quite an enjoyable experience. Its nice to catch up again with relatives and eat native delicacies such as chocolate muron and pili nuts. I hope we spent more time but that's ok it only means that there will be a next time.

Sunset in Kalanyugan Beach.

Just Be Friends

2011-07-11T12:36:00.003+08:00

A love that turns cold as time passes by.......

Two lovers drifted apart realizing that they will just be friends....

many thanks to Lira and Zoila of UPAME from making this video and photo shoot possible. see you again guys :)

One of a kind nature trip

2011-06-28T18:22:00.004+08:00

Have you ever been to a nature trip in which you have to see with your own eye a nuclear power plant reactor? Well its one heck of an experience and thanks to Greenpeace I was able to have one last June 11,2011.

The trip was organized to highlight the possibility of this moth-balled nuclear plant to be a tourist spot. This facility was built during the Marcos era and faced a lot of controversial issues like safety and corruption. The person in charge of the plant even joked that this place might be jinx :) Now its undergoing another phase again but hopefully this will work fine for the good benefit of the people.

I can say that the whole tour is absolutely awesome as I quote Francis Dela Cruz, public outreach coordinator of Greenpeace, “How many people can put a photo on Facebook of themselves taken from the middle of a control room of a nuclear power plant?”

more info on BNPP turning tourism
http://bit.ly/kZAoGS
http://bit.ly/lhjfiD

happy mordor:coron trip

2011-06-15T15:44:00.008+08:00

My friend and I went to Coron last week of May after our defense in ACFJ . Coron island is part of the Calamian group of islands in the northern part of Palawan, Philippines. Its a wedge-shaped limestone island, surrounded by white beaches and seven lakes which are very popular diving and snorkel spot for the tourist.

Our itinerary for this trip is to sleep,bike and swim :). We arrived on the rainy Sunday morning and just slept for the whole day. During the night we took a very relaxing bath at the Maquinit Hot Spring.

The following day we were blessed by a good weather, we rented a mountain bike (25 pesos per hour rent) and just explored around the town proper, market and pier. Its an exhausted day but fun :)

The next 2 days are swimming days weeh! We went island hoping and swim to fresh water lakes, white sand beaches and snorkel in coral gardens.

The beauty that we witness for the past few days reminds me of how lucky we are to have these kind of places in our country. As the saying goes, "take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints", we must give our share to protect it by being responsible tourist. Lets not leave our trash on the place or vandalize the place. Even through these small efforts we can make a big difference and preserve these wonders for the next generation.

*for island tour trips check this site

Realities

2011-05-18T18:44:00.004+08:00

Realities is a photo story about cosplay.

Open publication - Free publishing - More anime

Video: Realities

2011-05-17T20:38:00.000+08:00

komiks!!!!

2011-05-09T12:53:00.005+08:00

I'm always fascinated in the world of comics growing up reading Funny Komiks and sharing the adventures of Combatron,Petit, Tomas and Kulas and Eklok. Those light and action pack stories always makes me laugh and taught me a lot of stuff about life.

Last Saturday I attended the Metro Comic Con 2011 at SM Megamall and was able to meet up with some of the great artists and story tellers of comics. From the re-known artist of V for Vendetta, Mr.David Llyod to the promising writer Mr. Budjette Tan of the local phenomenon Trese, I was overwhelm to shake their hands and express my appreciation to their works. Then, I was able to see lots and lots of comics from the western to the local ones. Its good to see a lot of local artists selling their works (they remind me of the doujinshi event episode in Genshiken :)

I noticed that most of the local artists are still into manga or western style of drawing their but some of them have this distinctive quality that gives a feeling of a Pinoy made work like Trese. Cha my good friend told me about this comic book about a lady name Alexandra Trese who solves folklore cases in Metro Manila. Its not a first that Filipino comics made a story out of folklores but what is different with Trese is the setting of this folklore tale. Its a combination of modern crime scenes wherein the culprits are manananggals,aswang,tyanaks and other folklore characters. Its a good story for the new generation of Filipino youth to learn and appreciate our legends.

Only a few cosplayers are present in this event which are mostly western characters but with some anime and manga cosplayers. This is good change of phase for me because I've been working with them for the past 6 months ^_^

I'm happy to attend this event and its quite a breather from my hectic school and work schedules. Its a privilege to see, meet and witness the beautiful and interesting works of this master story tellers and artists.

Kampai to the comics world!!

food for thought

2011-04-26T16:03:00.001+08:00

hehe I'm the last female seiyuu (voice actor :)

let's go outdoors (bonus on the hikari series)

2011-04-06T20:46:00.004+08:00

Here is our session outdoors using all the basics in light photography

with no background

visible background (slow speed)

two side lights

moving subject

top light and side light

rim light and side light

Again many many thanks for the wonderful lessons Kuya Mel hehe sana magawa ko ng ayos sa folio :)

hikari part 4

2011-03-30T20:55:00.009+08:00

Other important stuff that Kuya Mel taught me:

Shadows:

Bigger shadow if the small source is almost direct to the subject

smaller shadow if the small source is tilted upwards 45 degrees.

The farther the distance of the small source the stronger the light should be for this shoot the power is only 1/32 that's why the lighting is poor.

Background

The faster the speed the more blur of the background.

The slower the speed the more visible of the background.

Improvised!!!

Your small source can be a medium or multi directional source if you put improvised material such as white plastic on the flash bulb.

The more you give space between the plastic and the flash bulb the more multi-directional the light is because the light can travel more.

The tighter the space the more directional it looks.

That's all for now and thank you so much Kuya Mel for sharing this :) Don't worry Kuya I will practice this and hope to apply it well for my folio. Hehe kaya natin to!!! :)

note: photo credits to Mel Cortez

hikari part 3

2011-03-30T20:33:00.008+08:00

Large source of light is anything that is larger than your external flash and that is not limited with windows or space in short its the whole sky :) In this case the whole lighting in the room and the white walls that bounces the light.

With the right angle and power of flash from the small source, it's able to emphasize the subject away from the background.

Another way of emphasizing the subject is the use of a zoom lens and a bigger opening.For this shoot the focal length is 50mm the opening of lens is 1.8

Next: shadows, background and improvised stuff :)

hikari part 2

2011-03-30T19:49:00.007+08:00

Medium source is what they usually called the window effect a right amount of light coming from the outside.

Without reflector side lighting.

with reflector- white is always a good reflector because it bounces light and if you want to absorb the light then use a black reflector for it.

medium source and right angle of the subject can give a three dimensional effect on the face.

and it also changes depends on the expression of the subject. The more you make your subject smile the more you can get your desire expression out of it :)

Next: large source

hikari part 1

2011-03-30T10:43:00.010+08:00

Photography is a language of light----Jay Directo,AFP

I had a privilege to have a crash course in light photography from Mel Cortez, a successful wedding photojournalist and my classmate :) He introduced me to the wonders of playing with light and making good use of our usually neglected external flash hehe.

Actually I really don't like using flash in shooting but according to Kuya Mel it is a necessary skill especially if I want to excel on this profession. I must not be afraid to try new stuff and just continue moving forward (thanks kuya!!!! :)

So I'll be writing 4 parts series on light photography to share what I've learned from the master. You will surely got sick from my face once you done reading this (hehe sorry no other model available eh^^;)

Life without light is so dull

Small Source

There are three light sources: small,medium and large sources. Let's go over the small source which is our external flash:

Direct Flash-as much as possible avoid using this one especially on portraits because it only make the subject blend with the background.

45 Degrees- A bit of shadow can now be seen on the subject and I look separated from the background.

Side light- it emphasizes certain features of the face such as the bridge of the nose and cheeck bones. The effect of a side light can be seen clearly if there is a reflector on the other side (further discussion on medium source light)

Bottom Light- it gives a Dracula effect, good for antagonist type of subjects.

Top light- looks like someone is being interrogated hehe. This lighting usually erase some features of the face such as the eyes and jawline.

Rim light- it shows the outline of the body of the subject.

That's it for now, next is the medium source :)

let's go beyond switching off let's aim for a [R]evolution

2011-03-27T09:19:00.004+08:00

Greenpeace volunteers together with members of the Earth Ministry of our Lady of Remedies Parish (OLRP) and Greak Work Movement lighted up sky lanterns and LED (light emitting diode)powered sign with different messages on clean and efficient energy.Greenpeace is promoting an Energy [R]evolution a massive uptake of Renewable Energy (RE), coupled with comprehensive Energy Efficiency (EE) measures to fight climate change during the Earth Hour celebration last 26 March 2011.(c)AC Dimatatac/Greenpeace

off to the real world

2011-03-20T01:28:00.011+08:00

Graduation time, one of the peak moments in a short human life...

The moment to leave the safety confines of the universities and the comfort of the simple lives as students....

The sweet freedom from exams,term papers,recitations,reviews etc...

The moment of separations with friends, teachers and other people that's been important, hoping in the end that they will cross their paths again in the future...

The time of innocence is finished its time to face the world but no matter how harsh it can be there is nothing to worry about as long as you have the foundation of learning and experiences you gain for 15 years of education and the support from your family and friends everything is going to be fine.

Therefore graduates of 2011 its time to rock, explore and have tons of fun to the next stage of your lives...

25 years=6 days,3 towns,1 city,1 companion,millions of fun adventures :)

2011-03-18T15:24:00.025+08:00

Geared with my trusty 400D, my partner Ipod and enough clothes I traveled to Vietnam with my classmate Chiloy for 6 days exploring 3 towns and 1 city with millions and millions of zeroes in money :)

Day 1:

-Got lucky to have a 2 dollar discount in the taxi to the backpackers area but upon arriving in the place a guard who looks like a drunk Vietcong came out in a dark alley. It looks like he came out from a war scene and it really gives me the creeps I thought he and the taxi driver are trying to sell us hahaha but luckily we're able to get a good place to stay.

-Saigon traffic!!! Waah lots and lots of motorcycles and every time we try to cross the street we always scream

-We ate a very delicious breakfast in Cho Benh Tanh market and finally plan our itinerary haha we just need to fill up our stomachs in order to have a clear plan :)

-City tour!!!!! Art museum-hehe we didn't pay anything for this because we use the back gate to enter :) Revolutionary Museum and the building across that looks like a European place haha I forgot the name. Dong Khoi street and a park with a very interesting photo exhibit of Vietnamese photographers, cool selections unfortunately the captions are not written in English.

-The search of Fanny ice cream :) Our other classmate, Jae, told us to taste the ice cream in this place so we walk for almost 30 minutes just looking for it but its worth it. The taste is superb just the right sweetness and its truly a natural ice cream.

-Ate dinner in a newly open restaurant in Pham Ngu Lao with a buy one take one Saigon beer :)

Day 2

-Mekong Delta Trip in the islands of Ben Tre. Hmm...its not that amazing the place just looks like a normal rural area in the Philippines and the tour guide is very irritating he likes to impress himself as someone who knows a lot of Western stuff tsk...and he likes to sales stuff to

-One good thing that happen is the waterway experience and we're able to finished a half kilo of shrimps hehehe

Day 3

-Mekong Delta Trip again with floating market sights and biking!!!!

-the best noodles ever (bamboo snails noodles) and a different type of blowing the candle cake moment :)

-a visit to a Catholic church for prayers of thanksgiving and worship

Day 4

-Chu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple. Experience a weird religion mixed of Catholicism,Buddhism,Taoism and witness the creative war tactics of the Vietcongs.

-Detox time hehe we're running out of budget so we just settled with a light dinner full of fruits :)

Day 5

-Remaining sights to see in the city such as the War Remnants Museum and the Notre Dame Cathedral

-Repetition of favorite dishes, bamboo snail noodles and fanny ice cream :)

-Shopping!!!!

-5 days straight of horror and suspense film what's with the cable channels its not even Halloween yet

Day 6

-Return home....

6 Days of fun and relaxing adventure with lots of thrilling experiences like meeting of new people seeing other places, learning new culture and most of all just living the life to the fullest.

PS. Thanks for a wonderful company Chiloy let's do this again for your bday :)

hanabi

2011-03-06T09:25:00.008+08:00

Hanabi, or fireworks in English, can really be considered as an entire season in Japan. For them Hanabi marks the summer season, and it's also a chance for all the kids to forget about school for a couple of weeks before going back. For the adults, it's a chance to get away from it all.

I decided to take a little break from my folio project and shoot the 2nd International Pyromusical Competition in Mall of Asia last Mar 5. The scheduled competition is between Japan and Canada.Japan's representative is Tamaya Kitahara Fireworks Co. and their presentation is very spectacular. It's reflects on how animated Japanese people are by proper combination of artistic fireworks and the musical scoring from the upbeat theme of Super Mario to the smooth piano melody of What A Wonderful World. The audience are being swept in awe with the beauty of the fireworks and the flow of the musical transitions. For me it gives me a feeling of watching a mecha (robots) and shojou (romantic love) type of anime series. Its action pack at the same time very romantic.

For Japanese people hanabi are considered as "flowers of fire" like the splendid cherry blossoms' brief in existence but booms with beauty.

hanabi!!!
Fiiiireeee!!!(screaming like launching a missile from a robot :)

Smiley :)

People braving the rains just to watch the show

A thousand big fireflies in the sky

"Sizz...Whew...Kaboom! Pop-pop-pop! Fuss...Fizz..."

a photographer's life

2011-03-06T07:52:00.000+08:00

life....

2011-02-16T14:36:00.003+08:00

The photos here tells a lot of stories about how fast and short our lives can be.It showcases different emotions and expressions of the people around us.

love and death

2011-02-14T17:51:00.014+08:00

A weekend before Valentines Day, I shoot two things that I'm not used to;

a wedding.....

Holding together the rings that will symbolize they're unending love for each other, these couple are now ready to enter the new stage of their life as inseparable individuals.

The crying bride is being turn over by her parents to his soon to be husband.

A crying father proudly looks at his newly wed daughter.

Their first kiss as husband and wife.

A kid looks at the pre-nuptial photos of the newly wed.

.......and a funeral.

The flag-draped coffin of ex Philippine military chief Angelo Reyes is brought to his final resting place at the Manila's Heroes' Cemetery on February 13, 2011 together with his family and members of the military.

Members of the Philippine military salutes as the pall bearers carry the remains of ex Philippine military chief Angelo Reyes to his final resting place in Manila's Heroes' Cemetery on February 13, 2011.Military officers,relatives and family grieve on the funeral of ex Philippine military chief Angelo Reyes as he is laid to rest at Manila's Heroes' Cemetery on February 13, 2011.

One of the sons of ex Philippine military chief Angelo Reyes grieves during his father's final resting place in Manila's Heroes' Cemetery last February 13, 2011.

This experience reminds me on how life passes by so quickly. One moment we are all crying tears of happiness because of our love to our special someone but in just a matter of a day these tears can turn out to sadness because of the death of our loved ones.How unpredictable and short our lives can be...

kung hei fat choi 2011

2011-02-03T13:19:00.002+08:00

A good way to spend the coming year of the metal rabbit with my officemates in Ongpin and Estero :)

foootbballll!!!!

2011-01-27T20:43:00.001+08:00

Hehe my first attempt in shooting a sports event, I think I suck on this ^_^;