When you got nothing to do, keep yourself busy. LOL.
August 06, 2011/Saturday
"Ang Babae sa Septic Tank"
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Photos Courtesy of:
The much acclaimed movie of the 7th Cinemalaya Film Festival has crossed from "indie" to mainstream. Thank you to Star Cinema for bringing this wonderful movie closer to us. Since it started advertising that it will be released commercially, I've been wanting to watch it on its first day of screening which was August 3rd. Unfortunately, I have no one to accompany me on that day so I waited until last Saturday, August 6th. We went to Gateway Cineplex to see the movie. 5:50 PM block was almost sold out (few seats left, like less than 10) and we got the almost front row seat (second row actually because we can't afford to watch the 7:50 PM screening due to time constraint). It was a pseudo-3D experience. Our necks might have hurt, but the movie will make that feeling bearable.
The movie basically is a movie within a movie and talks about how artistic people make an independent film. It showed the adventures and misadventures of dedicated and driven film makers as they make their project work and meet its demands --- time frame, budget, location and the star of the film, et al. The movie also touched some social issues that do happens in reality like poverty and human trafficking. I don't want to go into details and relay the story so as not to be a spoiler. Better watch the film if you haven't!
The film was highly enjoyable and it made its audiences laughed their hearts out. It was well applauded. Cai Cortez, Kean Cipriano, JM de Guzman and "The Miss Eugene Domingo" worked their asses off and they delivered. They complemented each other, thus, making the movie effective and awesome. Hats off to their writer Chris Martinez and Director Marlon Rivera. Truly, they deserve the 5 major awards from Cinemalaya.
Ang Babae sa Septic Tank was one of the best 88 minutes of my life. And what's a better way to end the night??? A hearty dinner over a fun conversation at Super Bowl of China.
August 08, 2011/Monday
"Medical Exam"
12:00 AM: I put myself on a nothing-per-orem status in preparation for my medical examination on that day.
10:15 AM: Arrived at the clinic in Makati. It was just a LRT ride away and 1-2 jeepney ride depending on which LRT station you will alight. There was a number of people in the clinic. Looking through the flowchart, I told myself that it will be a long process. After accomplishing a form, I waited for my name to be called and paid for the necessary charges. Then again, you have to wait as you go through the step-by-step process. Step 2 was the submission of the urine and fecal specimen and the blood extraction (CBC, Hepa, Crea, HIV). By then, I drank water since I had nothing since 12. Step 3 was the Vital Signs Monitoring done by a Registered Nurse. Pulse Rate, Respiratory Rate, Blood Pressure, Height, Weight and Body Mass Index were noted. Step 4 was the Optical Exam. It was quite fast because the doctor was on a hurry. She just asked me if I'm wearing glasses and made me read some letters from the Snellen Chart then its done. Step 5 was Chest X-Ray. I almost got cut off due to lunch break but I was lucky enough. I decided to wait for the lunch break to be over and proceed to the next step. Step 6 was the Dental Exam. Due to the number of people in queue, the dentist just checked my teeth and asked me to have the extraction done outside and just present the dental certificate thereafter. Two tooth should be removed. Step 7 was the Physical Examination. Good thing it was an old, female internist who will do the assessment. Unfortunately, she found something that needs to be referred to a surgeon. Further surgical evaluation will be needed. Step 8 was the Psyche Test. It was at that time of the day wherein you're tired and drained that you need to do an essay and answer a questionnaire. That was the final step. Results will be released in 2-3 days.
04:45 PM: The day is over. Exhaustion was an understatement. I hope everything will go well. Went home immediately after the long day.
August 09, 2011/Tuesday
"NBI Clearance Part II"
A couple of weeks ago, I went to NBI's satellite office to renew my clearance. However, renewal is not possible since you need to apply for a new one for they have undergone some changes in their software since their previous contractor ceased to render their service. This change of service gives a lot of hassle and headache to every Juan dela Cruz who wants his clearance renewed.
A priority number was given and was asked to come back to the assigned date for your paper to be processed, hence August 9th. Having in mind that I am scheduled, I didn't bother to go to the satellite office early. I arrived at around 11:30 AM and was surprised with the number of people. I was pretty dismayed because I was waiting along with the walk-ins of that day. I told the security personnel that I'm scheduled for the day but he told me that I need to stand in line along with those who just arrived. I arrived just in time since the cashier was about to leave. After accomplishing the form and paying 115 Pesos, the long waiting period started. We were asked to sit on those white monobloc chairs while waiting. We seemed like playing musical chairs since we have to move from time to time as the people ahead of us finished theirs. Being a (very) patient person, the waiting time was not an issue and I just looked around and observed. Some made new friends and kept on chatting. Their stories were so animated that we eavesdroppers can't help ourselves but laugh. Some got irritated and kept on complaining and some just killed the time by having a short nap. Sit patiently, move 2 to 3 chairs to your left (or right), sit again and wait seemed to be an endless cycle. As the day grows old, the line became shorter and the number of people decreased. It was 06:00 PM when I had my turn. The NBI staff will then encode the pertinent information you have written on the form given earlier to their new system and have you check it for accuracy. After that, you're picture will be taken in the usual white background, black-and white photo and have your biometrics through finger scan. No more messy black inks will be left on your fingers and avail the 2 Peso wet wipes. Then your clearance is ready for printing --- that is if no hits will be found. Unfortunately, I've got a hit and was asked to come back on the 31st to have my new clearance. Even before with the old system, I always have a hit but it only takes 2-3 days for me to get my clearance. The holding time was eradicated when we purchased the NBI Clearance Renewal Card that appears to have no use at all since they've changed system.
Wait, wait, wait for patience is still a virtue. At least my day wasn't put to waste. How I wish our government will do something about this matter because time, money and effort are exerted here. Paging Mr. President.
August 10, 2011/Wednesday
"Unkabogable: The Gandang Gabi Vice Experience"
We were supposed to watch the taping of GGV a week ago, but since the ticket was not available yet, it was postponed until this day. We met at around 01:00 PM in Gateway since our contact person told us to be at ABS-CBN by 02:00 PM. We arrived ahead of the expected time and the security told us that he can't let us in until its two. So we walked around the loop to kill time (we saw one of my favorites, World Champion Jed Madela). We went back to the entrance before 2 and they said that they'll let us in by 3. So we just decided to have a snack while waiting (MUST TRY: Starbucks' Hazelnut blended drinks. Thanks for the sample). We went back to the audience entrance just in time. We looked for our contact person then we headed to the holding area. We waited about an hour or so and the program coordinator started to brief us along with the security and safety marshalls. Indeed, very cautious and systematic, after all, it for our own good. We were led to Studio 10 and took our designated seats. After everyone's settled, additional instructions were given and a stand-up comedian was keeping us company while waiting for the main event. Then, the show's main man Vice Ganda arrived and the cameras started to roll. For more details, watch Gandang Gabi Vice, Sunday Night(s) after Pilipinas Got Talent, where else? Of course on ABS-CBN.
It was a fun experience. Laughter was all around the studio as he threw funny antics and friendly banters with his guests. We saw how it works behind and on camera. Team work is essential to make everything work. True enough even in our everyday living. Also, I was reminded that just like us, celebrities are mere human beings. They commit mistakes and have their fair share of flaws and imperfections.
After the show we were so hungry. After all, I think we shed some weight because even though the studio have an adequate air conditioning, once the camera is on cue, the lights were so warm and bright that causes sweating. Shakey's was the top choice to end the day.
August 11, 2011/Thursday
"Dental Chair"
In compliance with the requirements of the clinic, I have to undergo dental extraction... extractions I must say because its two tooth. I set an appointment with my friend's sister for the procedure. Their clinic is located in Intramuros. It has this homey feel and will make the patients comfortable upon arrival. Arrived there before 04:00 PM, just in time before it rained. I've waited for a few minutes since Dra. Iris was attending to a patient ahead of me. By 4, it was my turn. After a short introduction and small talk, the procedure started. I had dental cleaning first then proceeded with the extractions. Doctor said that she doesn't usually do extractions bilaterally so she did the upper left side first. Topical anesthesia was applied then Doc told me the "parang kagat lang ng langgam" (ant bite) line before applying the actual anesthesia to the gum(?). First exodontia was done quite fast, Then she asked me how I was and if I can still go on with the right side. I said yes. So we proceed with the second one. Although I can say that my pain tolerance is high, the doctor kept on reminding me not to endure the pain, that once I feel a slight pain, raise my hand and she will readily add an anesthetic agent to the site. We ended up re-applying anesthesia 3-4 times on the right side since the tooth seemed to be problematic. The tooth was cut into 2, bone in the palate was slightly reduced --- it seems too complicated and I even forgot how the doctor explained it to me while the procedure is going on. Well fortunately, through Doc Iris' perseverance, the stubborn tooth was removed. The procedure lasted about two hours or so but its okay. No pain, no gain as they say, however, pain was kept at minimum. The doctor told me that I have a good oral hygiene and a good dental structure though some of my tooth are prone to cavity and so I need to take extra care on them. I was advised that 5 of my teeth needed dental filling (or pasta), 2 of which immediately to avoid further damage, that is root canal or worst, another extraction. And since 6 has been missing in my pearly whites family, she suggested me to have dentures made. All other options were discussed. She just gave me some reminders after the procedure:
T'was a long week.
The movie basically is a movie within a movie and talks about how artistic people make an independent film. It showed the adventures and misadventures of dedicated and driven film makers as they make their project work and meet its demands --- time frame, budget, location and the star of the film, et al. The movie also touched some social issues that do happens in reality like poverty and human trafficking. I don't want to go into details and relay the story so as not to be a spoiler. Better watch the film if you haven't!
The film was highly enjoyable and it made its audiences laughed their hearts out. It was well applauded. Cai Cortez, Kean Cipriano, JM de Guzman and "The Miss Eugene Domingo" worked their asses off and they delivered. They complemented each other, thus, making the movie effective and awesome. Hats off to their writer Chris Martinez and Director Marlon Rivera. Truly, they deserve the 5 major awards from Cinemalaya.
Ang Babae sa Septic Tank was one of the best 88 minutes of my life. And what's a better way to end the night??? A hearty dinner over a fun conversation at Super Bowl of China.
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| Black Gulaman, Seafood Chopseuy, Birthday Noodles, Lechon Macau, Yang Chow Fried Rice |
August 08, 2011/Monday
"Medical Exam"
12:00 AM: I put myself on a nothing-per-orem status in preparation for my medical examination on that day.
10:15 AM: Arrived at the clinic in Makati. It was just a LRT ride away and 1-2 jeepney ride depending on which LRT station you will alight. There was a number of people in the clinic. Looking through the flowchart, I told myself that it will be a long process. After accomplishing a form, I waited for my name to be called and paid for the necessary charges. Then again, you have to wait as you go through the step-by-step process. Step 2 was the submission of the urine and fecal specimen and the blood extraction (CBC, Hepa, Crea, HIV). By then, I drank water since I had nothing since 12. Step 3 was the Vital Signs Monitoring done by a Registered Nurse. Pulse Rate, Respiratory Rate, Blood Pressure, Height, Weight and Body Mass Index were noted. Step 4 was the Optical Exam. It was quite fast because the doctor was on a hurry. She just asked me if I'm wearing glasses and made me read some letters from the Snellen Chart then its done. Step 5 was Chest X-Ray. I almost got cut off due to lunch break but I was lucky enough. I decided to wait for the lunch break to be over and proceed to the next step. Step 6 was the Dental Exam. Due to the number of people in queue, the dentist just checked my teeth and asked me to have the extraction done outside and just present the dental certificate thereafter. Two tooth should be removed. Step 7 was the Physical Examination. Good thing it was an old, female internist who will do the assessment. Unfortunately, she found something that needs to be referred to a surgeon. Further surgical evaluation will be needed. Step 8 was the Psyche Test. It was at that time of the day wherein you're tired and drained that you need to do an essay and answer a questionnaire. That was the final step. Results will be released in 2-3 days.
04:45 PM: The day is over. Exhaustion was an understatement. I hope everything will go well. Went home immediately after the long day.
August 09, 2011/Tuesday
"NBI Clearance Part II"
A couple of weeks ago, I went to NBI's satellite office to renew my clearance. However, renewal is not possible since you need to apply for a new one for they have undergone some changes in their software since their previous contractor ceased to render their service. This change of service gives a lot of hassle and headache to every Juan dela Cruz who wants his clearance renewed.
A priority number was given and was asked to come back to the assigned date for your paper to be processed, hence August 9th. Having in mind that I am scheduled, I didn't bother to go to the satellite office early. I arrived at around 11:30 AM and was surprised with the number of people. I was pretty dismayed because I was waiting along with the walk-ins of that day. I told the security personnel that I'm scheduled for the day but he told me that I need to stand in line along with those who just arrived. I arrived just in time since the cashier was about to leave. After accomplishing the form and paying 115 Pesos, the long waiting period started. We were asked to sit on those white monobloc chairs while waiting. We seemed like playing musical chairs since we have to move from time to time as the people ahead of us finished theirs. Being a (very) patient person, the waiting time was not an issue and I just looked around and observed. Some made new friends and kept on chatting. Their stories were so animated that we eavesdroppers can't help ourselves but laugh. Some got irritated and kept on complaining and some just killed the time by having a short nap. Sit patiently, move 2 to 3 chairs to your left (or right), sit again and wait seemed to be an endless cycle. As the day grows old, the line became shorter and the number of people decreased. It was 06:00 PM when I had my turn. The NBI staff will then encode the pertinent information you have written on the form given earlier to their new system and have you check it for accuracy. After that, you're picture will be taken in the usual white background, black-and white photo and have your biometrics through finger scan. No more messy black inks will be left on your fingers and avail the 2 Peso wet wipes. Then your clearance is ready for printing --- that is if no hits will be found. Unfortunately, I've got a hit and was asked to come back on the 31st to have my new clearance. Even before with the old system, I always have a hit but it only takes 2-3 days for me to get my clearance. The holding time was eradicated when we purchased the NBI Clearance Renewal Card that appears to have no use at all since they've changed system.
Wait, wait, wait for patience is still a virtue. At least my day wasn't put to waste. How I wish our government will do something about this matter because time, money and effort are exerted here. Paging Mr. President.
August 10, 2011/Wednesday
"Unkabogable: The Gandang Gabi Vice Experience"
We were supposed to watch the taping of GGV a week ago, but since the ticket was not available yet, it was postponed until this day. We met at around 01:00 PM in Gateway since our contact person told us to be at ABS-CBN by 02:00 PM. We arrived ahead of the expected time and the security told us that he can't let us in until its two. So we walked around the loop to kill time (we saw one of my favorites, World Champion Jed Madela). We went back to the entrance before 2 and they said that they'll let us in by 3. So we just decided to have a snack while waiting (MUST TRY: Starbucks' Hazelnut blended drinks. Thanks for the sample). We went back to the audience entrance just in time. We looked for our contact person then we headed to the holding area. We waited about an hour or so and the program coordinator started to brief us along with the security and safety marshalls. Indeed, very cautious and systematic, after all, it for our own good. We were led to Studio 10 and took our designated seats. After everyone's settled, additional instructions were given and a stand-up comedian was keeping us company while waiting for the main event. Then, the show's main man Vice Ganda arrived and the cameras started to roll. For more details, watch Gandang Gabi Vice, Sunday Night(s) after Pilipinas Got Talent, where else? Of course on ABS-CBN.
After the show we were so hungry. After all, I think we shed some weight because even though the studio have an adequate air conditioning, once the camera is on cue, the lights were so warm and bright that causes sweating. Shakey's was the top choice to end the day.
August 11, 2011/Thursday
"Dental Chair"
In compliance with the requirements of the clinic, I have to undergo dental extraction... extractions I must say because its two tooth. I set an appointment with my friend's sister for the procedure. Their clinic is located in Intramuros. It has this homey feel and will make the patients comfortable upon arrival. Arrived there before 04:00 PM, just in time before it rained. I've waited for a few minutes since Dra. Iris was attending to a patient ahead of me. By 4, it was my turn. After a short introduction and small talk, the procedure started. I had dental cleaning first then proceeded with the extractions. Doctor said that she doesn't usually do extractions bilaterally so she did the upper left side first. Topical anesthesia was applied then Doc told me the "parang kagat lang ng langgam" (ant bite) line before applying the actual anesthesia to the gum(?). First exodontia was done quite fast, Then she asked me how I was and if I can still go on with the right side. I said yes. So we proceed with the second one. Although I can say that my pain tolerance is high, the doctor kept on reminding me not to endure the pain, that once I feel a slight pain, raise my hand and she will readily add an anesthetic agent to the site. We ended up re-applying anesthesia 3-4 times on the right side since the tooth seemed to be problematic. The tooth was cut into 2, bone in the palate was slightly reduced --- it seems too complicated and I even forgot how the doctor explained it to me while the procedure is going on. Well fortunately, through Doc Iris' perseverance, the stubborn tooth was removed. The procedure lasted about two hours or so but its okay. No pain, no gain as they say, however, pain was kept at minimum. The doctor told me that I have a good oral hygiene and a good dental structure though some of my tooth are prone to cavity and so I need to take extra care on them. I was advised that 5 of my teeth needed dental filling (or pasta), 2 of which immediately to avoid further damage, that is root canal or worst, another extraction. And since 6 has been missing in my pearly whites family, she suggested me to have dentures made. All other options were discussed. She just gave me some reminders after the procedure:
- Pack the site with sterile gauze or cotton balls to prevent bleeding. If bleeding is still profused, used soaked tea bag to compress the site.
- Avoid eating or drinking warm and fishy stuff. Ice cold drinks are better. Observe soft diet for the time being.
- Take antibiotic (Amoxicillin) every 8 hours for 7 days and a pain reliever every 6 hours as needed (I prefer Medicol).
- Brush teeth in a circular or vertical motion not horizontal so as to facilitate a better cleaning of the teeth, gums and the in-between. Take your time while brushing your teeth and if possible, do it in front of a mirror for better cleaning. Use mouthwash or if not available, lukewarm water with salt will do.
- Floss. Do not use toothpicks.
- Have a regular dental check up. At least twice a year.
T'was a long week.
Two of the hardest tests in life: the patience to wait for the right moment and the courage not to be disappointed with what you've waited.
