10 UP Freshie Tips

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - It's a happy, jolly and merry Christmas for many 4th year students because UPCAT was just released, 2 months earlier than the usual which is around February.

 

Si Oble sa Quezon Hall

And so, today is the best time to let these new Iskolars ng Bayan to know the BEST (?) tips fresh from Twitter (or not so fresh at all - most of them were from @OverheardAtUP) on how to survive life in UP from the UPians (oooppps...) Iskos and Iskas themselves.

Limelight: UP Pep Squad's Keith Landicho

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - I am pretty sure everyone knows how much of a UP Pep Squad fanboy I am.. No? Okay. But yeah, I am.. You wouldn't believe it, but 50% of any Youtube UP Pep video views is mine (hmm.. maybe 49%) As a matter of fact, I was there live during the 2011 and 2012 UAAP CDC and even made documentaries (here and here) and closely monitored them in 2013. I will be honest that I am not a fan of cheerleading and/or cheerdancing (if ever there's a difference.) I don't even know what "cupie" and "1-1-1" mean, if somebody could just explain it below this post right now, lol. So the main point is, there's gotta be something that UP Pep Squad has to be loved like this. For sure, I know I am not alone. I love them and we all love these people. They arguably have the largest fanbase compared to the other teams.

But admit it, if I ask you to give me a name of a member, will you be able to give me one? Except maybe for the stunners. Not even a name?

So let me formally introduce to you, Keith Landicho. A drummer-turned-cheerleader for the Unibersidad ng Pilipinas.

 

Keith and the UP Pep Squad. Taken by Ria Narciso.

Keith is a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communication Engineering student (3rd year) of UP Diliman. He’s currently a rookie cheerleader of the well-known UP Pep Squad.

FYI: UAAP Cheerdance Competition

MANILA, Philippines - The UAAP CDC month is already here! I made an infographic for everyone. I'll add more info as I gather them. Here's the deal so far:

    

Call Me Jed™ (cc) 2013. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Philippines License.

An Artistic Experience

PARIS, France -  An artistic experience for me is my unique perspective of seeing the physical world with a more meaningful sense. Since the real definition of art is ambiguous, an artistic experience can also be vague itself. I think the whole point of understanding an artistic experience is for you to elaborate and understand art in general. An artistic experience for me is divided into three points of views: how I perceive art as the creator, how I see art as an assessor, and how I distinguish the difference between art and reality.

Photo by: ba1969

To fully define what an artistic experience is, I came up with a simple idea that art, although perceived or seen or felt as a form of an object as its byproduct, is the actual transformation and application of the person’s thoughts to the object which his/her creativity is applied to. This way, I can easily recognize where and when an artistic experience is happening.

The first point of view of an artistic experience is when I am perceiving art as the creator, or simply when I am actually doing art myself as a way of my personal expression and creation. For me, changing a bleak object into a work of wonder is an artistic experience in itself. The actual experience is the conversion of my ingenious approach to a substantial entity--an output. An example is when I turn a piece of white paper into a colorful abstract painting. By this kind of transformation, an artistic experience is actually happening.

The Art of the Streets of Manila

MANILA, Philippines - Art, defined as the undefined form of self-expression (or group,) is unquestionably found wherever you go. Although art is seen in different forms, sizes, shapes and textures, and of course, not limited to a kind of painting or any picture made by hand, it is arguably generalized by many that art is simply a picture. Having this idea made me think that a picture is more of an art to some when it is drawn by the hand. This kind of sorting gave me a very unique discovery that there is art wherever we look in the streets of the Philippines that is never recognized by award giving bodies, not even by the locals themselves. I am referring to the art that is probably the “most erased” of all time: graffiti.

Photo by: beermug

Graffiti is a kind of a drawn picture or letters printed on a wall or any form of solid object using aerosol spray paint or simply paint as a sign of tags or expression of an individual, or groups. It is plainly a street art. A very detailed explanation would be the one written in 1985 by Allan Schwartzman in his book Street Art where it says "Art, specifically visual art developed in public spaces - that is, "in the streets" - thought the term usually refers to unsanctioned art, as opposed to government sponsored initiatives. The term can include traditional graffiti artwork, sculpture, stencil graffiti, sticker art, wheatpasting and street poster art, video projection, art intervention, guerilla art, and street installations. Typically, the term street art or more specifically post-graffiti is used to distinguish contemporary public-space artwork from territorial graffiti, vandalism, and corporate art. Artists have challenged art by situating it in non-art contexts. "Street" artists do not aspire to change the definition of an artwork, but rather to question the existing environment with its own language. They attempt to have their work communicate with everyday people about socially relevant themes in ways that are informed by esthetic values without being imprisoned by them."

Isang Sulat Para Sa Mga Niloko

MAYNILA, Pilipinas - Niloko ka na ba? Nanloko? O tingin mo niloloko ka? Ito ay para sa iyo kaibigan. :)

Photo by: adamci.

Photo by: adamci.

Kaibigan,

Huwag kang malungkot.
Hindi mo kasalanan.
Huwag kang mag-alala.
Hindi siya kawalan.
Huwag ka ng umiyak.
Hindi siya kasing halaga ng bawat pagpatak ng luha mo.

Alam ko ang tanong mo sa sarili mo. Saan ka nagkamali? Ang sagot? Wala. Wala kang ginawang mali. Hindi mo dapat sisihin ang sarili mo sa kagaguhang ginawa niya sa'yo. Hindi kailanman naging mali ang magmahal ng totoo. Ang mali ay yung gagantihan ka ng kabaliktaran. Ang mali ay yung lolokohin ka sa kabila ng lahat ng pagmamahal na ibinigay mo sa kanya.

Marami kang tanong alam ko. At alam kong ang pinakamasakit sa ngayon ang yung wala siyang ginawa upang sagutin yun. Kung hindi ka iniwan sa ere na parang isang laruang pinagsawaan matapos mong madiskubreng meron na siyang ibang kalaro, e nagmamakaawa naman siya na patawarin ka dahil lang sa nahuli mo siyang nagkamali.

Tao ka. Maganda ka. Espesyal ka. 

Hindi mo dapat ikubli ang iyong sarili sa katotohanang ang taong inaakala mong makakasama mo habang nabubuhay ka ay siya mismong sisira ng pangarap mo. Dahil bukas makalawa, may nakaplano na ulit na isang bagay para sa iyo. 

Tandaan mo: Hindi siya kawalan.

Poll: Best University Website in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - Websites are the online home of many organizations, companies, and of course, (particularly for this post) universities. Let me do a little poll to know which of the big universities in the Philippines have the best looking homepage. To vote, go to the bottom part.


ADAMSON UNIVERSITY

www.adamson.edu.ph

It's blue and starry. AdU's website is very similar to that of UST's. I am not sure which of which came up first with the look at my front building homepage. The site has its announcements right under the banner.

ATENEO DE MANILA UNIVERSITY

www.admu.edu.ph

Blue and blue and blue. The blue pride. It has a very large slideshow of what's going on. I was able to catch Rizal's picture with Tagalog caption. Not so Ateneo in the Tagalog part but hey, the site looks so pro.

CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY

www.ceu.edu.ph

Presenting MMDA's extension site. Just kidding. The CEU site reminds me of old MMDA's theme. It is so PINK. Not a fan of the color, but they sure are making a difference here!

DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY

www.dlsu.edu.ph

The site is so pangmayaman. It has this Apple website feel on it. The shadows of the borders give it that kind of feel. The site is simple and easy to navigate on.

FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY

www.feu.edu.ph

The website has this 3D feel on it. Like, it looks nice actually. The colors: yellow and green complement each other so much that it looks so Slytherin with the yellow.

MAPUA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

www.mapua.edu.ph

The site is red and it looks like the Indonesian flag. The site seems like it's a Weebly template ripoff, but it is very simple which makes it look good.

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

www.national-u.edu.ph

This site is the only one with a wallpaper-looking background. It looks pale and there seems nothing special about it. Maybe because of the color.

POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES

www.pup.edu.ph

PUP site is the only one which doesn't literally waste any space. Look at how much they maximized the whole screen. It has a futuristic look on the banner.

UNIVERSITY OF ASIA AND THE PACIFIC

www.uap.asia

The site is very simple. Some bugs when I tried the Blaze A Trail campus tour. They also maximized the space but only on the slideshow part.

UNIVERSITY OF THE EAST

www.ue.edu.ph

Very child friendly looking site. Not into the minimalists side, more on the colorful stuff - decorative side. They highly emphasized them being "Topnotchers" so expect it all over the website.

UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES DILIMAN

www.upd.edu.ph

Very simple looking. The colors look 8-bitty. I think the website needs a complete overhaul. I guess it's all about the information and excellence, and not on the physical side.

UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS

www.ust.edu.ph

The site has a very good looking picture of it's famous building. The font is lovely. More like a directory, though but it's really nice.

20 Tips You Really Need Right Now

MANILA, Philippines - If you are a fan of memes, then I am sure you know Advice Mallard very well - it's the mallard who gives GOOD advices to everyone. I compiled some of these advices that I believe YOU really need right now.

© Dmitroza | Dreamstime Stock Photos &Stock Free Images

Here's my list:

1. Food tastes so bad after brushing?

"To keep food from tasting awful after brushing teeth, rinse with hot water."


2. Your kids keeps on scribbling on your newly painted wall?

"You can use toothpaste to remove crayon marks from walls."


3. Want to know if someone's staring at you? 

"Yawn."


4. Did you get a pimple before an important meeting? 

"Use an ice cube to shrink it."


5. Want someone to add you on Facebook?

"Take a picture with them and ask them to tag you."

My Book Covers

MANILA, Philippines - Just sharing to everyone the book covers of my unfinished/unpublished novels or short stories. I made these images myself. The titles are the actual ones I wrote. I am an aspiring publisher or an author. Forgive the desperation. Haha..

A short story about someone who sinks with the Titanic.

A manga about a boy who needs to find his parents.

A short story of someone's view while the towers collapse.

A tagalog sparks novel about a promdi girl who encounters a rich scumbag guy.

Best Customer Service Experiences in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - There is a big difference to the (over-the-phone) customer service given by Filipinos to foreigners (through BPOs/call centers) and by Filipinos to fellow Filipinos (of local companies.) Filipinos working for BPOs are strictly guided by rules, formalities and forced rapport, while the local companies' customer representatives speak in Tagalog (or Taglish) and understand what you need perfectly -- there's no language barrier even in the slightest manner.

I don't usually call hotlines to get help. As much as possible, I go online and try to resolve the issue I am facing by myself with the help of people who've had experience the same thing. So unfortunately, there are only a few times that I have actually called or was called by these local companies, but hey, some are bad and some are good.

And good things do last. And why don't I share them now huh? I have three (3) good companies that perfectly fit the title above. The best companies with good customer services.




Globe Telecom

This Globe™ logo is a trademark of Globe Telecom

There are millions of Globe users in the Philippines. I think 95% of my phonebook contacts are Globe users. But the number of users didn't stop Globe in providing the best customer service. I have a lot of good experiences with Globe, being a prepaid subscriber since 2004-present (I guess) and postpaid by 2011-present, there are too many things to say. Take note that I am judging the customer-related service I experienced not the network's services (signal, internet speed, etc.) Here's one of them.

Mga Taong Nakakainis

MAYNILA, Pilipinas - Bakit nga ba may mga taong nakakainis? Kung iisipin mo. Pare-pareho lang naman tayo. Ikaw, ako, siya, 'yung nanay mo, 'yung nanay ng nanay mo, yung nanay ng nanay ng nanay ng nanay mo.. tao lang tayo, hindi ba? Pero bakit may mga taong nakakaasar? 'Yung tipong kahit wala namang ginawa, inis na inis ka.. Well, hindi natin kontrolado yung nasa paligid natin. Pwedeng naiinis ka sa kanila kasi may mga bagay silang ginawa sayo, or posibleng may mga bagay ka na hindi mo napapansin na kinaiingitan mo. Pero ganun pa man, anong klaseng mga tao nga ba yung pinakanakakainis?

Isa-isahin natin.


Taong Magaling Lang Kapag May Kailangan

Una, yung magaling lang kapag may kailangan. Ang daming taong ganito. Nagkalat yan. Kaliwa, kanan, taas, baba. Diyos ko. Makikita mo yan kahit saan ka magpunta. Yung mga taong pag may kailangan sayo e ang bilis bilis bilis pero pag ikaw naman ang may kailangan, hindi mo yata yan makikita kahit sa bahay nila. Well, siguro sila yung mga taong tinatake ka for granted ng hindi nila napapansin. Posible ring tingin nila you are their savior. Posible diba? Pero ganun pa man, nakakaasar pa rin yun. Sino ba namang gustong lapitan lang kapag may kailangan? Weird, diba?

Paano Magmove-on ng Mabilis!

MAYNILA, Pilipinas - Oo, oo.. Alam ko. Masakit talaga ang break up. Pangalawa na ata ito sa pinakamasakit na bagay na pwedeng mangyari sa iyo, sunod sa kapag tumama ung hinliliit mo sa paa sa kanto ng aparador--walang tatalo dun! Anyway, isa sa naiisip mo sa ngayon habang nasa breakup stage ka e "hindi ka na makakapagmove on dahil imposible ito." You are wrong! Akala mo lang yan! Pero I know mahirap, hindi madaling gawin, or it takes time. Sure, sure, it takes time. Pero how long? 3 years? 7 years? Don't fret my love! Dahil eto ang kasagutan diyan. I will tell you the fastest way to move on! In an instant! Ang bagong Unilever MoveOn Capsules made with the finest coconut jelly and North Korean ginseng extract na mabibili exclusive sa Watsons! ..... Haha.. Wag kang tanga. Walang ganung instant pagdating sa nararamdaman. Pero try mo. Baka tumalab.

© Joseasreyes | Dreamstime Stock Photos & Stock Free Images

Heto na talaga.


Isipin Mo Siya Ng Isipin

Oo! Totoo.. Sabi nila forget him/her to move on. Oo nga. Pero when people tell you to do it, the more mo itong gagawin. Pasaway tayo e. Diyan tayo magaling. Now I dare you to think of him/her. Pagsawaan mo siya. Think of how much time you are wasting thinking of this person. And you know, studies show that when you repeatedly think (write or say) a word, you will have this weird thinking na this word doesn't have a meaning. It's called semantic saturation. A psychological thingy. Google it up. Malay mo. Manawa ung utak mo kakaisip sa kanya. Pero as much as possible stick to "forget him/her." :D

Senatorial Candidates for the Philippine Elections 2013

© Hyrons |Stock Free Images

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Election Day 2013 is near. And the bad thing is I am not a registered voter. I feel incomplete. As a Filipino, I believe it is an important part of your adulthood to participate in the elections. But if I were to vote, here are the senators that I will vote for! I am not maka-UNA or maka-LP, so basically my votes are based on my "stock knowledge" about these people. I don't even know which side they are. Hopefully, some of them win tomorrow! But guys, don't take it seriously or just thank God I am not voting tomorrow!

10 Less Known Facts About the UPCAT Infographic

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - While reading facts and figures about UP, I came across a facts and figure article about the UPCAT and decided to create an infographic about. Here is the original source of the facts and figures: http://academic-clinic.com/2009/06/10-less-known-facts-about-the-upcat/

10 Less Known Facts about the UPCAT  | Infographics

Top 5 Anime Recommendations

TOKYO, Japan - Japanese cartoons contributed to the development of most of the youngers today. No doubt, anime is what kids today watch. But for some folks out there, they haven't even seen a single anime or probably didn't even know what anime is. Anime is the Japanese version of the American cartoon (or basically - a cartoon) - ever heard of Naruto or for older folks Voltes V? Yeah, those are anime. I am listing down the top anime "for me" so there's something for you to begin with. Again, these are my picks!

© Gataloca | Dreamstime Stock Photos & Stock Free Images

5.  YuYu Hakusho (Ghost Fighter)

Created in 1992, this was one of the most popular anime in the Philippines during the 90's. Everybody knows Eugene (the protagonist - the ghost fighter.) Basically the story revolves around  a team of fighters who had to fight in an arena (freestyle fighting in a stage with the audience who looked like malnourished monsters cheering for their favorites.) Just like any sports games, the winner advances a level ahead to fight with another set of players. The story has exciting episodes that will make you say "Aww I want more!" everytime. But lucky you, there's no stopping you from watching it since you can get the whole copy online or by a DVD.

Trying Samsung's S Memo

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - Samsung has an application that no other phone has. It's the S Memo app that is a built-in application for Samsung S3, Notes, etc. (End of Thinking Capacity)

So through time, I was excited to see that I have been literally scribbling drawings and words using it. And here are what I have come up with. They look like your little brother/sister/dog's drawing I know.. But I am here to show you how cute it is to use the app! It complete with all the brushes and pen tips essentials, and would definitely be a good app to play with. I am sure many of you can draw better than what I have come with below.. 

I dunno who this guy is. But he has some attitude.

Happy from Fairy Tail.

Really Nice Animated Pictures

MANILA, Philippines - There was a time when animated pictures were the highlight of the web. Now, seems like all websites are eliminating the support of this wonderful file -- the GIF. Before it's completely gone, let me just show you some amazing animated pictures that you may find awesome.

A Running Dalmatian?

A New York City Cab?

A Critical Analysis of “Cybercrime law: Demonizing technology: by Sen. Guingona"

MANILA, Philippines - In an article written by Sen. Teofisto 'TG' Guingona III on the Rappler website entitled “Cybercrime law: Demonizing technology”, he strongly states that the “Republic Act 10175 is oppressive and dangerous.” RA10175, also called the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, is the latest “cyber law” that pushes legal actions against unpleasant online interaction. Though, the Senator clearly pointed out that we need a Cybercrime Prevention Act, he still disapproved the libel provisions of the law.

© Johneubanks Stock Free Images

Guingona used three words to describe RA10175: vague, unfair, and oppressive. In vague, it is stated that since there is no clear definition of the people who are liable in making such cyber crimes, the practice of freedom and democracy for anyone is not envisioned in the law as anyone can be charged as long as there is enough proof of criticism. In this part of his article, Guingona used the provisions of the cybercrime act to show the imprecision of it. His argument proves to be correct as there was never anything mentioned regarding who can be held liable in such unpleasant acts. The vagueness is evident as to see nothing in an article means there is nothing to defend.

Calling it unfair, the senator also stated that RA10175 has a weightier punishment of up to 12 years imprisonment if proven guilty while the traditional libel act gets a mere four years and two months of jail years. In this statement, the validity lies to the facts of the laws involved. The traditional libel law has been active for many years now; therefore it is true that if proven guilty, one can be locked in for up to four years in jail. Seeing that the provisions of the new online libel law may take up to 12 years, it is unacceptable to state that it is unfair. First, it is not safe to compare an old law that has been in practiced for years now to a one that is still being reviewed by the lawmakers themselves as changes may still occur. Second, if ever the new law is already in effect, the extent of damage one can make by doing such libelous crime online is larger and bigger due to the fact that almost everyone has access to the internet, therefore the information (regardless of its accuracy) can easily spread out.

Is The Question "What is happiness?" Philosophical?

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - I came across one of my homework (or howemork) in my Philosophy subject and decided to publish it here. Fifty percent of the things I've written seems gibberish to me. Well, I didn't know what I was doing (or in this sense, writing.)

1. Is the question "What is happiness?" philosophical?

© Dancer01 Stock Free Images

The question “What is happiness?” is philosophical. A good philosophical question is a question, according to Avrum Stroll and Richard H. Popkin’s Introduction to Philosophy, which has seven characteristics of a philosophical problem. And this particular question includes: digging beyond the obvious—for we know exactly what happiness is. On second thoughts, do we really?

Let’s say the question is the argument itself. According to the book Philosophical Analysis, real arguments in natural language are not amenable to fully precise treatment. Many people would deal with the question with full of controversy and analogies. So, by thinking of the question--“What is happiness?”—we can come across many ways to evaluate it.

A philosophical question is one that has more than one legitimate answer. Therefore, the answer to this question can be different from one another. And the value of those answers has yet to be proven. The answers might be in many forms—making it a perfect example of a philosophical question.

2. Identify one valuable lesson that you learned in the Intro to Analysis of Statements which you think can help you in your life.

 A valuable lesson I learned in the first part of the course that would probably help me in my life is the knowledge on how to analyze the truth-value of statements. We all have gotten into an argument without actually being confident about how well our statements have been. We just utter words that sometimes just don't make sense even if our mind tells us that we know exactly what we are talking about.

A Compilation of Jokes!

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PSBank Debit MasterCard Review

MANILA, Philippines - In the Philippines, credit cards are becoming easier to have, but is that really a good thing? Easy credit card means easy money and it sure means easy debt. Ask yourself, you really need a credit card? Yes? You sure?

If the purpose of you wanting to have a credit card is to buy things online (because your ATM is not an alternative) or to go shopping in the mall without having to touch cash (because you believe it's so dirty) then proceed reading. I'll try to convince you that there is a better alternative. And oh. The title sure tells it to you already.

Let me introduce: PSBank Debit MasterCard

My own debit card!

What do I know about debit cards, you say? Well, I actually work as a phone banker of a large debit card provider in the US. I know how exactly how debit cards work and the internal process everything goes through. Do I sound legit now?

5 Youtube Videos That Will Make You Go Wow

CALIFORNIA, United States - There are 2 categories on Youtube. One is reposted videos and the other is the not so viewed awesomeness. People are either uploading or re-uploading them. And here I am, trying to find the most amazing Youtube videos that may or may not have gone viral .. yet. Enjoy!

5. A Musician Who Can't Afford A Drum Set

Here's a challenge for you. Do not look at the video and just listen to it. Great huh? You wouldn't think this guy's using just all those stuff we have in our kitchen. Someone please, give this man a drum set!


4. Japanese Men Who Are Either Robots Or CGIs

What the freaking kind of training did they do to perfect this performance. I doubt they are real humans. They are robots.. Hmmm... Or maybe CGIs.. I am not fucking sure. One thing's for sure, these people are Japanese!


3. A Rubber Girl Who Tosses A Bowling-like Ball

This video made me realize how amazing gymnasts are. She her skills are way too good, you will think that her skills kill! And this video cannot be done anymore by anyone else, not even her. Once in a lifetime skill. So perfect.

Helpful Tips On Teaching Korean Kids English

SEOUL, South Korea - Korean kids, as you already know, are mandated, if not forced, by their parents to learn English (one of the other things they must learn while they are young.) It's a funny reality that Korean children speak better English than their parents. English is a universal language. And in order to fulfill a Korean dream to be a fluent English speaker, parents hire the most efficient, most knowledgeable , and cheapest-to-pay English tutors.

I have become one of them (teachers) from 2008 to 2012. That's four straight years of having eye to eye contact with Koreans. I did online based tutorials and man-to-man classes. During those years, I learned a lot of things about the nature of teaching Koreans -- other than learning the Korean language.

Here are some useful tips that may help you.

1. Win your student's heart first

That's the first thing you must always think of. No matter how smart you are, no matter how cute you are, no matter how experienced you may be, if your Korean student doesn't like you -- then you may pack your bags now. Although kids are primarily attracted to good-looking teachers, most of them still stick with an ordinary looking teacher simply because they like them. These kids are picky. One of the English sentences they would probably learn is "I don't like Teacher Jed!"

So for you to be a likeable teacher to a kid's view, don't show your diplomas, your certificates nor your college grades, these kids do not care at all! What you needed to do, is to try to please them. You must make them feel like you are more of their friend. Be friendly. Try to play games as ice-breakers. First impression lasts, right? Treat them like your little brother or sister. Love them like your son or daughter. And I am sure as soon as you become  friends, teaching them would not be a pain in the ass.

A student I am so attached with. He is Won Mo.

A Step by Step Guide on How to Have a Philippine Driver's License (Non-pro)!

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - Driving could be hard for newbies. But getting a driver's license (DL) is a little bit harder.  You need to tell yourself "I won't give up!" Why hard you ask? Well, first of all, if you really want a legit DL, you must follow all the instructions, pass all the exams (driving test included,) and go through the exhausting process--and that means by waiting and waiting and waiting in long queues.

Here is a step by step guide on how to get a DL.

1.  Obtain a Student Driver's Permit to any LTO branch near you.

The first thing you needed to get is a Philippine Student Driver's permit. This is not intended for school students. I have a young friend who thought that the Student Driver's permit is the driver's license for young kids 16 and above. No. This ain't it. Okay? In fact, all drivers (no matter how old) must get this in order to get the DL itself. This is a primary requirement!

But hep-hep, please make sure you are qualified to have one. Here's the deal:

Qualifications:
1. Must be at least sixteen (16) years old.
2. Must be physically and mentally fit to operate a motor vehicle.
3. Must be able to read and write in Filipino or English.

Are we good? If so proceed. Here's what to do next.

A.  Prepare the following docs:

1. Original with photocopy of birth certificate.
In the absence thereof, any of the following:
a. Joint affidavit of two (2) disinterested persons who know the applicant and who can attest to his/her age and identity accompanied by non-availability of record from NSO or local civil registry office.
b. Any legal document to prove his age and identity such as GSIS, SSS, Passport or any government issued identification card.
2. For applicants below 18 years old, require parent’s or guardian’s written consent with photo copy of ID Card to prove his/her identity. If not accompanied by parent/guardian, the written consent must be duly notarized.
3. Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN) if employed
4. Duly accomplished Application for Driver’s License (ADL)

Make sure you have your TIN document ready. It could be your TIN ID, any tax form or a legal document or ID that's showing your TIN. In my case I showed them a tax form that is verifying my RDO. And it got approved! AND DO NOT FORGET TO PHOTOCOPY YOUR DOCUMENTS!

B. Go to the nearest LTO servicing branch (One Stop Shops included.) Yes, you don't have to go to LTO East Avenue (for NCR applicants) to get this.

Follow these simple instructions:

1. Proceed to the Customer Service Counter to get your checklist of requirements and secure a Driver’s License Application Form.  Get a queue number and wait for your number to be called.
2. When your number is called, proceed to evaluator counter and submit all the required documents and have it checked for completeness and authenticity.
3. Proceed to the Photo taking /Signature Area to have your picture and signature taken when your name is called.
4. Proceed to the Cashier when your name is called to pay the necessary fees and obtain an Official Receipt.
5. Proceed to the Releasing Counter when your name is called and present the Official Receipt and claim the Student Driver’s Permit.
C. Please take note of the fees:

Application Fee 100.00
Computer Fee 67.63
Student Permit Fee 150.00
TOTAL 317.63

This process may take up to 1-3 hours, depending on number of customers they are assisting. I remember going to LTO One Stop Shop Cubao (near TIP) in the morning and got it a little later after an hour and a half. And that's it! You now have your Student Permit! Weeeeee!

How Technology Gives Human the Edge (Essay)

MANILA, Philippines - In the era of technological advancements and the progression of science, an argument has come into view regarding the effect of technology to humanity and individualism. Many environmentalists and pro humans protested about the devastating effects that technology has caused the environment and humanity. They put the blame on such advancements. Humanity and individualism aren't sacrifice in this age of technology; in fact, technology has helped to develop a better world for individuals.

© IbanMontero | Dreamstime Stock Photos &Stock Free Images

The world has come to the age of the future. The building blocks of tomorrow that once we called impossible are just a few steps away to obtain. The world we live in today is unimaginable without technology. Can somebody survive without the internet? Yes, maybe. But it is now part of our lives. The basic necessities to survive aren't limited to just food, clothes and shelter. The Internet or whatever technologically influenced materials we have around are becoming part of us whether we like it or not. And they help us grow up to live within the range of the today’s standard of living. The world is not going to move without technology. A machine is technology. And machines surround us. From the bag zippers to our cars, a machine is right there! Technology is right there! Technology feeds our dreams with fulfillment and success. Technology is undeniable! It is here and it’s here to live on.

The world depends on technology to keep going. Life as we know it depends on technology to survive. The current state of the world is no doubt a technology-dependent biosphere. The government today is very eager to establish a broadband network that can link government agencies in a rush. The world has adapted into this kind of trend. Having the fastest internet in the world, Korea is a wired country. Everything here is fast, internet-ready and convenient. This country proves that taking advantage of technology has proven to be a successful tactic in becoming progressive and wealthy. And the trend, if that’s what we call it, scattered worldwide in a speed as comparable to that of light. The world, the countries, and the people: all depends on technology.

Humans are created in a way that they can easily adapt to their environment. A proof is when people go out of the country to a place colder than theirs, wait a few months later, it seems like they feel hotter than ever in this colder place. You see, it is human nature to evolve, not as the way Charles Darwin had defined it though. Humans are naturally talented and curious. They tinker electronic gadgets, they invent futuristic machines, name it, the humans tried it!

Social networking is becoming very popular to humans. It has grown from zero to fully loaded. This is the result of humans’ eagerness to connect. Humans love to talk. Can you blame them for abusing telephones? Can you blame them for misusing keyboards? Can you blame them for overusing cell phones? The ability to use words is a good enough reason to accept the fact that humans are created to connect with one another. After all, even animals have their own ways to communicate, no one’s exempted. It is natural for human to use all the resources it can acquire to their full potential. It is human nature to adapt, response and change to everything that can go wrong or right.

Mga Katotohanan Tungkol Sa Pag-ibig (at Mga Pagong)

MAYNILA, Pilipinas - Masaya ka bang naimbento pa 'yang letcheng pag-ibig na yan? Hati lang naman ang sagot ng tao e. Oo, kasi inlab ka. Hindi, kasi bigo ka. Well, well.. Hindi ako eksperto sa pag-ibig mga tsong at tsang. Pero inalam ko ang mga katotohanan at kasinungalingan pagdating sa pag-ibig. Simulan na natin!

My MATH  exam answer during desperate times! My professor actually agreed.

"Hindi kailanman naging mali ang magmahal.."

FALSE

Love is blind, ika nga. So, this is the flaw: since you are blinded by the situation, edi you won't see how wrong it is! Tapos right after mo marealize na mali ito, you will then conclude na minsan may mali rin sa pagmamahal. I guess the main point of the thought is: hindi siya mali sa mata ng nagmamahal sa panahon mismo na nagmamahal siya. Pwede? Pwede. Kaso may "kailanman" e, and that ruins it! At magmahal ng ano? Pwedeng pera, yosi or alak. It depends, dude!



"Masakit ang magmahal.."

TRUE

Kahit gaano ka pa kasaya sa iniibig mo ngayon, there will be a point in time na masasaktan ka dahil sa kanya. And that is a fact. It just happens eh, so let's deal with it na lang. It is unavoidable part of human nature. Kaakibat na ng pagmamahal ang sakit na 'yan. Pero kahit gaano pa kasakit yan, kung mahal mo talaga yan, you can manage. Yan ang tinatawag na bangis ng pagmamahal.



"Ayaw sa iyo ng gusto mo.."

TRUE

..most of the time.. Humans are picky creatures! Pataas ng pataas ang standard ng tao base sa anong meron sa environment niya. Pansinin mo. Bakit ang pangit pangit pala ng crush mo nung elementary pero gandang-ganda (or gwapong-gwapo) ka na sa kanya noon? Kasi, yung crush mo stands out among the people around you. The person is special. Eh, ngayong naghigh school ka, mas nagdalaga or nagbinata ka na.. Everything changes and so is your crush! The main point ko rito is since we are picky, we tend to choose the best among the rest. So, kaya ka ayaw ng crush mo ay dahil hindi ka niya type, and no matter how much you try: may instance talagang wala ka ng magagawa dun. At tanong ko sayo, isipin mo ung isang taong type na type ka pero ayaw mo? Subukan mo ngang mahalin. Cannot be, diba? It also applies to your crush's choice. Kaya 'wag ka nang masiadong malungkot. Karma lang 'yan! Why not love everyone? Para ebrebadi hapi! :D

Social Networking: Destruction/Distraction To Students

PASIG CITY, Philippines - I remember writing this in 2009 for my Korean student who was 2nd year high school in Colegio San Agustin Makati. Yeah, I did his homework. I had to make it look like his, though. :)

© Okrest | Stock Free Images and Dreamstime Stock Photos

Here is the short article:

Technology changes rapidly. From the old-fashioned snail mails to the new and fast 3G video calls. Indeed, everyone is qualified to be called a geek. The computer savvy people come from all ages, from your neighbor’s youngest cousin to your grandmother. But most computer users are proven to be us—the youth (students). How do social networking sites affect the way students study?

Today, Friendster has more than 13 million active members in the Philippines. Friendster is also the country’s #1 social networking site. In Korea, people don’t really have Friendster or Facebook, because almost 25% percent of the South Korean population has Cyworld. And just like any other countries in the world, students are among the top users. In America, researchers surveyed 219 students at Ohio State, including 102 undergraduate students and 117 graduate students. Of the participants, 148 said they had a Facebook account.

An Indian student was killed because of posting a little something about him in a social network that is popular in India. This is perhaps an extreme example of the social impact of these social networking websites such as Facebook, Myspace and Friendster on today’s youth. So instead of asking a new friend his home address, we rather ask his Friendster’s URL or if he’s on Facebook.

Things You Don't Know About Call Center Agents

MANILA, Philippines - Customer service is one of the conveniences customers take for granted, most especially because it is, most of the time, free and easily accessible. I have been in the business for a few months now, and there are things I just learned and noticed about it. Here are the things customers DO NOT know (or probably, don't take much of consideration) about the customer service representative they are talking to.

© Scantaur | Stock Free Images and Dreamstime Stock Photos

Customer Representatives Have Feelings, Too.

Of course you do know about it, don't you? I know how frustrated you are about the product or the service, but little did you know that shouting or cursing at the representative won't help you at all! If you want to be respected, you treat others with respect, too. Right? Most people who call the center start the call irate and end it irate.

"Hey, why the f**k is my phone not working?! You idiot. I hate your product! I am not using it again! F** You!"

Do you think that will help you? Seriously.

Think about it? Imagine those words being said to you when it is actually your first time talking to each other. Difficult right? Some agents actually absorb what you say, most especially if you said something about their race or accent. So the next time you speak with a representative, never ever say bad words, because these people are there to assist you and not to make fun of you.

It's Not Always The Agent's Fault If You Are Having A Problem

..It's probably the system or the company itself. Little did you know that most of the agents you are speaking with are not hired directly by the company which provides the product/service you just purchased. That is why they are called "call center agents", because the company, let's say Apricot Computers, paid Chuck Norris Customer Services, a call center company, to provide them the customer service they need. See that? But it doesn't mean they don't know anything about the products! These agents are trained for weeks just to be an specialist about the products or services! They probably know more about the products than the CEOs themselves! Trust
 me!

So, if ever there is a problem with the product or the company in general, never put the blame on the agent. Although he or she is the only person available to represent the company, he/she is not responsible for your mistakes and that of the company's. Calm down now, and talk with them as though you are speaking with your relatives.

My Creepy Short Short

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - "Patay na si Nena." sabi ni Pedring na anak ng magsasaka, kaklase ni Maymay.

© Joncasdam | Stock Free Images Dreamstime Stock Photos

"Kailan pa?!" bulalas ni Maymay.

"Alas dos ng hapon ngayon."

"Eh ala una pa lang."

"Heto't papunta na sa kanila." sabay labas ng kutsilyo.

THE END.

Call Me Jed™ (cc) 2013. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Philippines License.

Work or Study? Choose School.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - Working while studying is not the best idea ever. If I were to choose one, I'd rather study... no.. I'd rather work.. Hmm.. Ok.. I'd rather do none of them.. I want to be the world's most famous bum.

How does it feel like to work and study?

It feels awesome (and tiring.) Awesome in the sense that you have two worlds to manage. School papers to finish and a job to master. But it is tiring. It's difficult. If you were in a situation that you were to choose one, choose your studies. Trust me.

Why?

I am currently enrolled in UP Diliman taking ONE subject in the residential mode--meaning I still go to a regular class with regular classmates; and taking THREE more in UP Open University--this time I do classes online.

AND

I am currently employed full time, working for Telus International. I also have just started a small online business selling websites to small businesses.

Studying is DYING literally. I mean, how could I even manage to go to school in the morning after work. And to tell you Math building in UP Diliman is situated at the worst place.. It's so far, even the moon is nearer.

Okay, enough with the exaggeration.

Another downside is that it costs you more to study while working--with UP's STFAP system at least.

I was bracketed STFAP B by the Office of the University Registrar (all UP units.) That means it costs P1000/unit to study; while without work, I would probably be in Bracket D (P300/unit) or E (P0/unit)--and that's way, way cheaper.

Here is my FORM 5 for a MATH11 subject this SY 2012-2013, second semester.

3k for a subject?

My FORM5: a single subject.

STFAP bracket B.

Although working gave me the opportunity to earn money, it all goes to my studies (I pay for my schooling.)  So, it's somehow useless if you ask. Unless you have rich parents to help you out, then that is great.