Monday, January 14, 2008

Im claiming 2008 as MY year of years!

Things to look forward to:

- Management Training Program at Splash Corporation. How can I resist? I'm gonna be dumb if I let the opportunity pass. Great job, good position, greaatt salary. I can't wait.

- Agora Awards results on Feb. If ever I get the award, I can literally die. I'm willing to trade all of my Marketing awards just to get one. Ay, wait, probably not. Basta, all I want is that for this year. I hope I get it.
I haven't completed all the requirements yet. I'll probably do that on Thursday.

- My condo. My parents are buying me one, that's sure already. My mom said: "Ginagawa namin to para makapag-simula ka na sa future mo." Funny. They were to buy one at the Fort already (thinking that I'll be working at Makati) but now that I want to work for Splash (located at Mindanao Ave), they're probably buying me a condo somewhere else. OR they could just buying me another big thing (A car would be great ahem)

- Maroon Five concert. Come on Vamvi!

- Sept 17. Since I lost my phone last year on the day of my birthday, I was not able to celebrate it. This year, I'm gonna make sure that there's a big celebration. One that people will not forget. :)

- Out of the country trips with friends and family.

- More out of town adventures with the people I loove.

- A new laptop. My dad just bought my second one last year with the whole highest level of Vista thing plus other cool specs that I don't really use. Now that I'm working, my dad said that I'd have to give it my brother since his laptop crashed AGAIN just recently. I'm gonna get one in Splash naman daw e.

- My updated Ipod. Haha! It's such a high knowing that you're Ipod is updated. I crashed my Ipod early last year that's why it took me awhile to put almost all of my favorites.

- A better body. It's about time I become very serious with my health. When I start working again, I'll make sure I eat healthy and drink healthy. Wait, maybe the I'd have to pass sa drinking healthy.

VuhVye.

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Pinoy Third World

I love my country. I'm staying here because I love it here. Gorgeous beaches, warm, friendly people, fiestas left and right, cheap clothes, cheap standards of living in fact!

This video, however, sums up everything I hate about Pinas: non-sense everyday crimes, prevalence of drugs and lack of education. It's entertaining, I swear. Too entertaining, however, that we fail to find solutions for the problems considering that they've become somewhat normal and even funny already. Grabe.

Vvrrooom vvrroomm! Watch it and enjoy.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Karen recommends.

FOR THE FIRST TIME, just so you know! I'm definitely not techie and I really don't believe in recommending people the clothes that I like (Because 1. I'm selfish and I want to wear something different from that of the others 2. I believe in finding one's uniqueness through his/her clothes making other people's suggestions a LITTLE irrelevant) that is why do not expect anything related to innovation or retail here. These are the items/locations that I've found interesting, effective, and genius in the past month.

1. Cream Silk Precision Repair Treatment
One of the best features that I've had since birth was my hair and I was always proud of it. Sadly though, I've had too many haircuts and too many right and wrong hair colors done in my hair enough for it to be damaged this much. Don't get me wrong, it still looks nice (bleahahaha!) but I just knew that something was different the minute I dyed my hair black. I kept on complaining how it became sad-looking and lifeless to people simply because it's like not having a cellphone for a month. My aunt gave me a box of that Cream Silk Precision Repair Treatment and my God, repair kung repair!

You just have to use it once a week. Must I say, one try was enough for me to get hooked. I'm really going to use it again. It brought back my love.


2. Splash Corporation's Baby Spa Liquid Powder
This product is genius. I'm giving this to my preggy friend. FINALLY, a company realizes that loose powder is terribly bad for babies! This liquid powder is perfect because it nourishes and protects the baby at the same time. It comes in different scents to! I think I'll try all actually.

3. TALC
Okay, fine I said there's nothing fashion-related here but Talc is so cool (I can't believe I used that term) that I just have to say it. They have the most gorgeous and fun bags that you'll ever see. I have the "Seoul" one thanks to my Momma Alexa.

4. Laptop sleeves/bags/envelopes
Laptops are definite must-haves now that is why it's important for someone to buy a a protector for your laptop that would look good anywhere, anytime too.

5. Belle de Jour
This planner is fit for all the Sex and the City girls out there. Other than the fact that I know the owner of this planner (Hi Dar!) and that I'm so amazed by how much her product has gained market through the years, I think that this planner is Cosmo mag made more organized.

6. Gloria Jean's Planner
For the not so kikay, I prefer this planner. The Starbucks planner has become so overrated and yucky through the years that buying it is kinda useless already. The Gloria Jean's planner is perfect for highschool-college people. It's really cool inside. While the Starbucks planner has Deviant art-ish pictures of coffee and coffee shops in between months inside, Gloria Jean's has pop-art. I love love love it. I'm so happy my dad gave me one.

7. Bobby's File Case/Trapper Keeper
I honestly don't know what it's called but it's like a trapper keeper with flaps inside where you can put all your files/handouts/important documents. On the side, there's space and pouches for all your necessities like pens, post its, Ipods, etc. It's really cool 'cause the skin's all leather and it's sold for ONLY Php450. They have it in different colors - pastels, neutral, etc. I'm excited for the Gold, Bronze and Silver edition. I want the bronze one. But if Bobby follows my animal skin ideas, I'll buy either the zebra or the leopard print.

I'm so proud of my brother. It was supposed to be solely for his LS project but it got so famous and big in Ateneo that he's been negotionating with Fully Booked already because they want to sell his products as well. For inquiries, please message me at my Tagboard.

8. Gossip Girl
Ugh, so ditsy!

9. Ugly Betty
Okay, my frieds have been watching this since the first episode but I only had the chance to watch this just recently. It's so addicting. Betty is soooooo adorable and irritating at the same time. I love Amanda, she's such a typical blonde.

10. 77 Cafe at Kamuning for QC people and 19th Bar and Grill for South people
They both have the same feel - cozy. Both establishments serve delish food and alcohol like others. What I love about these two places are their homey setups.

Current bands play at the 19th Bar and Grill. I don't know if 77 does the same thing but as far as I know, it just plays music fit for chilling (wataword).

11. F*art
Indicated by the name itself, F*art is a fusion of fashion and art. Conveniently located in the heart of Quezon City, near ABS-CBN and GMA-7 studios, it is where young, fast-rising fashion designers and artists showcase their creations.

F*ART offers funky fashionable finds fit for fun Filipinos.

In Fashion ART anything is possible and what you imagine is within your reach. That is because Fashion ART allows you to interact with Filipino fashion designers and artists so you can customize the products you really want to have, according to your taste and needs. That’s right because Fashion and ART is a place where young, fast rising Filipino fashion designers and artists showcase their freshest creations. Fashion and ART offers funky fashionable finds fit for fun fab Filipinos.

It's cool to spend the whole day there and experience all the interesting goodies.

12. Mr. Kebab
I don't know anyone who hasn't been to this place yet (not that I asked everyone I know if they've been to Kebab). This place will always be my favorite. There's a runner up though - Grilled Tomato at Tomas Morato.

13. Piedra, Fort
For that fun night of Hifhof and RnB. It's where I usually have fun with my friends.

14. Inihaw na Chicken at Chicken Boy, Xavierville
They're not called Chicken Boy for nothing :) Eat it with Bacolod rice and you're solved for the week.

15. Bath and Body Works' Warm Vanilla Lotion
It can work wonders. A person can be addicited to this smell in a second, I promise.

16. Olay Total Effects
I've been using it for more than a year now and must I say, I've never had any complaints.

17. Colloidal Lotion
For the very very very dry skin, use colloidal lotion. Trust me, I've had my own taste of going to the derma because I shaved my legs the wrong way causing my legs to dry (up to a point when it looked like a snake skin! can you believe that?!) and itch. When my derma gave me this colloidal lotion and that other lotion whose name I completely forgot. They are really effective. My ugly skin was gone in days!

Colloidal lotion, from what I've heard, is a combination of fats and some other ingredients needed to make lotions.


There. Enjoy!

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Wrap up

This year was the most intense, exciting, and fulfilling year of my life.

I don't usually do year-end summaries but this year is so exceptional that I just have to write about it. 2007 was a year of firsts and a year of lasts, a year for things to finally happen, and a year for old things to develop into new ones.

This one's taken from a survey my friend Ria answered too.

1. Did you fall in love?
I always do.

2. Did you get any new best friends?
I’m lucky that I was able to keep all the friends that are worth treasuring. Meeting new friends are wonderful, I must say. I’ve met quite a lot this year and I’m very thankful for them but I’m more thankful for those who stayed. Adults are right, 'the older you get, the less true friends you have'. I'm still lucky to have true friends to keep me happy and (sometimes) sane, thank God.

3. Did you start disliking someone?
I hate disliking someone this bad but I guess I do hate someone right now, I'm sorry.

4. Did you get your heart broken?
Yes and I'd rather not talk about it anymore.

5. If you could change something about this past year, what would it be?


6. Are you happy of how things turned out?
I am more than grateful for everything's that happened. I love my life because of 2007. I'm pretty sure that I'm more mature and more driven this year. It feels so good to know that you're assured of your future because you're on the right track to personal success/happiness.


7. Did you get any thing pierced? Where?
Other than my normal ears and navel piercings, I haven't had any yet.

8. What's your new favorite color(s)?
Blue will always be my favorite color. It makes me think of the sky and the beach everytime.

9. Did you do anything life changing?
I joined MarkProf Foundation's search for the Top25 Marketing Trainees for 2007 plus I've been recently nominated for an Agora Award. I love it.

10. Favorite piece of clothing?
Oh God, I don't know where to start. I've been collecting dresses for the past months so I guess Im inlove with all of them. I'm addicted to my scarves and my big fasyon tops although I think I'm wearing them less from now on because I can't monitor my weight with those clothes. I love my grey tights too. They're so cute :)

I'm now starting to collect officey clothes. It's not really my preffered type but I have to buy because society dictates that of me. Good thing my dad pays for all of it. He's soo cute. He's into buying me Zara and Tyler clothes because he wants me looking all professional. Haha! I love you, Papa, and thank you.

11. Did you go to any parties?
Tsss, there was a time when I haven't seen my family for months because of parties/booze sessions. Before, they'd complain about the fact that I'm never home but they joke about it now. I'm trying to catch up on the things that I've missed out on (like regular Sunday reunions with cousins) that is why I TRY my best to lessen the going-out-routine-every-night thing.

12. Did you have any surgeries?
How I wish. Im so open to cosmetic surgeries that is why when I have enough money to pay for my own surgeries, I'll have my legs and arms done in an instant. Oh and I'll try getting those deep dimples that I've wanted for so long.

13. Do you like our president?
I don't really give a crap, to tell you honestly. The Philippine Government has always been so fucked up that to care for it is kind of useless already, in my opinion. In fact, I pledged to my family that I'll only get my Voter's Id when Bayani Fernando runs for President. I really hope he does.

14. Do you support our troops?
I do not care at all.


15. Did you get engaged/married?
Im too young to get engaged/married. I'm gonna marry when I'm sure of my extravagant future already. Haha!

16. How many bf/gf's did you have?
Around 8, I think.

17. What's your favorite thing you got for christmas last year?
Post Secrets book from Ley, shopping spree from my dad, and the Ipod case that Bobby gave me. Oh and DORA doll 'cause I look like her daw :)

18. What's the thing you want the most this year for Christmas?
Assurance and piece of mind. And that black and gold hoope earrings that I saw the other day.

19. Has anybody you loved passed away?
Nada, fortunately.

20. How's school going so far?
I'm finally done with college! Imagine, after 5 years!! Im proud to say though that I graduated with honors and that I graduated from a course that I'm totally inlove with. I can't wait to work.

21. Did you get any pets this year?
Nope. I want a dolphin when I'm super rich but for now, I think I want another Hammy (a hamster). I miss him.

22. Did you have any "new" members added to your family?
Haha, I don't think we're that viable to have another one added to our family. Indirectly, however, I think Len, our maid, who has been really sweet and wonderful for the past 3 months is the new addition.

23. What's your favorite song?
Crank dat! Kidding! I don't know. I have so many.


24. Who's your favorite band?
Fallout Boy, Vertical Horizon, Incubus, Maroon Five, The Fray, Death Cab, Rooney, Something Corporate, Matchbox 20, etc.

25. Favorite person in your family?
Dad

26. Have you had a job?
I've been a stylist 3 times for the past year and I loved every minute of it. 7 months for Tyler, 3 days for the Globe event, and 2 days for La Copa, Fort.

27. Have you been arrested?
Haha, there's so need for that! I'm crazy but not stupid.

28. Have you been in trouble?
All the time. I'm always in trouble, I swear. But it's all good! Being in trouble makes day to day activities more fun and exciting.

29. Have you thought about suicide/murder?
Before, but it was like a 30-second commercial in my mind.

30. Are you emo?
Haha, a loot of times.

31. Favorite trend of the year?
Tights and indie films! Plus long necklaces. It's really wonderful to find one long necklace that is totally different from all the others that are usually sold in Greenhills.

32. What decade do you wish you could live in?
My decade! It's so full of everything plus the people are less traditional and more carefree.

33. Do you have a crush on someone?
Wow, it's been a long time since I've encountered the term CRUSH. NOw that I think about it, I don't know if I've had one in months OR years.

34. New Year's resolution?
Lose the fat, get a nice job, give more and demand less, try going to events on time, and be honest to people.

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Unbubbly

Makes me crinkle my nose
Where ever it goes
I always know

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Sleigh bells ring, ARE YOU LISTENING?

It's the very first Christmas time that I don't feel that Merry.

You say "sana karmahin ako", I say you don't know how much I gave up for you that I think I deserve something more than just that line. I'm not saying this to make you feel thankful / grateful that I gave up things for you coz I did that without your influence but I hope you know that I started counting on you the day I made that decision. I think I deserve something more than "Bat kita aalagaan? Malaki ka na, kaya mo na alagaan sarili mo Kar. Di ka dapat umaasa sakin." Why can't I?!?!?! What the hell is the point if I can't actually count on you!?!

Last night I heard the most hurtful things that any special person can tell me.

You say I'm selfish, I say you've known that ever since we became a couple actually. My selfishness was never an issue to you before, why is it such a big deal now?! I thought you love/d me for being so demanding and so needy, what's the difference with then and now?! One tip honey, you get into a relationship with one person because you love that person for who he/she is, and not for who he/she can become. You're trying to turn me into someone Im not by making me understand that you cant fucking come to me when Im sick because you wanna buy car parts. You compare with your officemates and accuse me of being less of a girlfriend as compared to them. You tell me that Im the only reason why you feel that way about yourself when, in fact, I have no intentions of doing that to you at all. I am hurt, I hope you know that.

Thank you to the people who are always there for me whenever needed. I ALWAYS LOVE YOU, NO MATTER WHAT. Zham-fong LOVE TO YOU, DARLING!

Monday, December 10, 2007

'Tis the Season



Tis the season, really :)

Everythings's been great for me this year, thanks to those lucky stars. It's that time of the year once again, the time of gift giving, hot chocos, endless fasyon parties and guiltless shopping.

My Christmas wishlist for this year is totally blank. Not that I don't want anything at all, I just don't know if I want something that specific right now (kaw kasi bambi e). I feel like I've got every material thing that I could actually want (I havent been to the malls yet so maybe that would change). I'm focusing more on the things that I'm giving to my dearly beloveds. I want them to get something special, unexpected, unique, and spectacular this holiday season from me. I want them to be happy. In fact, I wish everyone's happy this Christmas.

It's been a fast year and to be honest, I barely realized that the year's coming to an end once again. From the Arcadia suprise party to Cyler gift giving (I miss you, Cyler) to losing / gaining friends to Lara's Crowne moments to Bora with the bitches to Tagaytay mis/adventures to sudden Puerto moments to Laiya debuts to LaCopa moments to Playa, Calatagan to bestfriends' graduations to pick-a-fight moments to stressful thesis nights to everyday drinking (at Xavierville, Grilled Tomato, Katip, Tomas, 77 Cafe) to Piedra nights to Holiday Inns to homecomings to I heart Katipunan to Ponte Fino Batangas to sucky retreats to Wii moments to high school reunions to Graduation pictures and write-ups to happy halloweens to going back to black hair (but shifting again to brown soon) to MarkProf to Subic Adventures to dolphin loving to double graduation.

This year was a year of great movies, impulsive (and sometimes unnecessary) closet filling, beach loving, booze overflowing, awards winning, network expansion, and love never-ending.

I can't wait for the next round.

---

Last night marked the end of our MarkProf training. The theme of the program was: "Top 25 Marketing Trainees: Ready for the World". Am I really? It's so scary for me. I dreaded the day the training would end coz it means that I finally finally have to face the real world and look for a job, support myself, and save my own money. I'm scared of the unknown and the unfamiliar. Last night, however, reassured me that I am actually ready and that I can take on any challenges that come my way. I celebrated that realization. I celebrated not only the idea of being one of the best Marketing trainees in the country, but I also celebrated the person that I could be someday.

I hope I make my parents proud, my country thankful, and myself happy and contented.

---

Sunday, November 04, 2007

Booyah

I miss them. I miss hanging out with them doing nothing. Oh well.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Results are out!

Karen Sangalang: Ranking = #1

A text from my dad: "Congratulations. I'm very impressed, keep it up"

I still can't believe it. Out of the Top25 of the Philippines, I was #1 for the first week. 6 weeks more to prove to myself and to others that I can really be someone great. I have to work harder for the next week. I know the others will be more competitive than ever.

God be the glory.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Ray of Light

The crazy ones are those who think that they can rule the world. More often than not, they are the ones who do.

According to my previous DepartmentHead, Marketing people are innately crazy. Ding Salvador, another founder of MarkProf said that the 25 trainees for 2007 are all crazy for joining the program.

Therefore, I am crazy.

I want to change the world, too, like most crazy people do, and I know I will.

The other day was our first training day for MarkProf. My God, everyone was so competitive. I kinda expected that already, though. We were branded as "The Dream Team of New Marketers" anyway so I knew that the people with me would be wanting that valedictorian spot on graduation day. I've never met a group of people more thirsty for glory and to tell you honestly, I feel so honored to be with a group that is so driven and goal-oriented. Healthy competition is always nice. I just hope it'll remain healthy come December.

The 1st trainor was the 1st Filipino Pres. of P&G. The second was Mr. Josiah Go and the third was from Unilever. I was amazed with Josiah's intelligence but was overwhelmed by Dondi's (from Unilever)creativity and imagination.

I think I'm more Dondi than Josiah. I'm more on the creative side of Marketing. I'm good with the other parts but brand conceptualizing and the likes are my forte. Out of the three trainors, it was with Dandi that I felt most inspired. I want to be like him. I want to be him.

I want to change the country, if not the world, through my ideas. I have so many of them that I just can't wait to start working already. I want my ideas to have an impact to the people. I want my ideas to demand attention and create a revolution. My goal is to effectively market brands that will be assigned to me by my future supervisor and at the same time allow people to see, realize, and discover a part of themselves in the brands that I will market.

I know that it's not right to block yourself from the possibilities of seeing other horizons but I can't help sealing myself in the world of Marketing. It is my calling that is why I'm gonna do everything to excel in it.

Note to self:
-review for next week's topic in order to be ahead of others
-research on the case study
-do homework about Blue Ocean Strategy
-book Bora tickets :)

Sunday, October 21, 2007

STC (Stop The Crap)

Dear fellow Theresians,

I want to share with you what happened to my cousin Janthina Pamela "Janpi" Oliveros, daughter of my tita Osang Jopson - Oliveros (HS 77). Janpi is a 4th year student at STC. She has been consistently on top of her batch the past 3 years, and the top candidate for valedictorian until this case.


I am sharing this with everyone because I feel that she was not given due process by the high school administrators. As a former Theresian, I cannot just sit and not do anything about what they did to Janpi. The Theresian community including the alumni ought to know about this. Although she's not interested to go back to STC anymore, I feel we have to do something to stop this from happening again to another student of our dear alma matter.


Please take note that Janpi, #1 in the batch is class president, model student, dance prod director, etc. Alison Bayle her classmate is #6 in the batch. She is the daughter of Mrs. Teresa Bayle HS Principal. She is a goddaughter of Mrs. Sacdalan and a some of the 4th year HS teachers.. Who wouldn't think this happened because they are desperate for Alison to be valedictorian. OR ELSE WHY NOT GIVE JANPI HER DAY IN COURT?


Please read on, this is her account of the story.


I am Janthina Pamela Jopson Oliveros a 4th year student of STC. I have been accused by the high school administration of committing forgery. The whole process was very traumatic for me. I am writing this letter to present my side of the story in the hope that these things would not happen to any other student again.

It was last March 2007 after classes had ended that Mrs. Guinevere Sacdalan, the coordinator of PEHM and head of the Young People Management office, called us for a two-day planning session to prepare for our dance production. The director, costume designer, script writer, and music in-charge of each class were called. During that planning session we chose the music for our production, made the costumes designs, assigned the sectors to represent, and finalized the order of presentation for the Family Day. Everything was done except for the dance itself.

Last August, I asked my PE teacher Mrs. Josefina Yalong if I could borrow our costume designs because we, the directors for the dance production, were already asked to assign the character and costume for each person in the class. When I got the costumes during dismissal time, almost half of the class were still inside the classroom. They saw the costume designs for the first time and there were a lot of violent reactions: they said it was ugly, it was not appropriate, the skirts were too short, there should be no sleeves, they don't want to wear shorts, etc. They wanted almost all costume designs to be changed by our costume designer Dianne. I said to them that it couldn't be done anymore because Mrs. Sacdalan had already signed each costume design. Someone from the group shouted "Edi i-forge" other classmates suggested "I-scan nalang!" "I-photo copy!" I was in a hurry to go home that time because it was raining so I just said, "Cge bahala na kayo diyan" and
left the costume designs with my classmates because I was assured that Dianne would keep the costume designs since it was she who made those. Classes were suspended the next day, and we had a long weekend. Sunday night, I even texted Dianne so she wouldn't forget to bring the costume designs because I was already going to submit them to Mrs Sacdalan. The next day during homeroom period, our class adviser Mrs. Rhodora Formalejo gave us time to discuss about our dance production. So I got the designs from Dianne and went in front of the classroom to show it to the class. While showing the designs, I noticed that two costumes were already changed just as what my classmates suggested the previous week. I just continued showing them, and since not all of my classmates were there the previous week when I first got the costumes, a lot saw the costumes for the first time and there were violent reactions again. Alison Bayle, the daughter of our principal, and script writer of our
class, even wanted another costume to be changed but I said it couldn't be done anymore since a lot of the costumes were already changed. Someone from the class asked to see the designs so I gave them, and the designs were passed around the class. Some of my classmates, especially our choreographers, were already talking to Dianne asking her to change and alter the designs once more. Since Dianne was seated beside one of our choreographers, Isabelle, she was forced to adhere to the changes they wanted. During recess time, I saw Dianne inside the classroom busy doing something. A lot of my classmates were walking around the classroom, so I went to look at what Dianne was doing and I saw that she was busily cramming another costume. After she finished drawing the costume, she forged Mrs Sacdalan's signature, and smudged it with ink. I was just standing there watching her, and I said "Dianne, masyado ka na mahahalata nyan." It was so obvious since she even smudged the
forged signature. So I got the design and tried to rub it off but it was done with ink so there's nothing I could do about it. I was called by Mrs Sacdalan after recess, so I hurriedly got the costumes and placed it on her desk in her office. I didn't tell her that our costume designer changed and forged her signature since I didn't want Dianne to be the one punished because she was just forced by the class.

After lunch, Mrs Sacdalan already knew what Dianne had done, and Dianne was called for in the office. She was made to write an incident report, and she wrote a short report that says it was I, the director of the class, who forced her to change and forge the signature. I was also called to Mrs Sacdalan's office. While on the way to the office I asked Mrs. Yalong our PE teacher what the problem was. Mrs.Yalong showed me the drawings of the costumes which were changed and told me the signature was forged. Mrs. Yalong asked me what happened. I did not immediately tell them what happened because I was afraid. But when our guidance counsellor Miss Karen talked with me I told her what happened. I was then asked to tell everything to Mrs. Sacdalan. I couldn't remember all the details and all the events that had happened at once. The events were slowly coming back to me as I was trying to recall them when I was asked to tell the story for about three times that one
afternoon. I stayed in Mrs. Sacdalan's office for almost 5 hours.

Dianne and I were never called to the office again. After about two weeks, Mrs Sacdalan already gave me a letter for my parents. They were asked to come to STC and talk to Mrs Sacdalan. After two weeks they were called again, and after one week they were called for the last time.

Excerpts of the incident reports which Dianne and I wrote were read to them and they were shown the drawings of the costumes which were changed. They were told that an investigation was underway and that they would be called again.

During the second meeting with my parents, they were told that Dianne was consistent in blaming me and that the administration committee decided that Dianne and I were guilty of forgery. My parents asked whether there was an attempt to make Dianne and I issue our statements face to face in order to flesh out the truth regarding who really asked her to change the costumes. Mrs. Sacdalan said it was not part of their procedures. My parents replied that it was part of due process. My parents also questioned why there were no witnesses interviewed regarding what really happened and why the class was not called to a meeting to really get to the bottom of things. My parents said that majority, if not the whole, class knew most especially the class officers. They also questioned why I was charged with forgery when I did not actually forge any signature and why Dianne and me were meted the same degree of penalty. My parents also questioned the gravity of the penalty on
Dianne and me when it was not done to defraud or cheat the school; but we merely yielded to peer pressure. They asked why it was only the two of us being punished and not the whole class. They even suggested that the penalty should be appropriate to the infraction such as disqualifying the class from the dance production and relieving me of my role as director, and not to judge our whole conduct. My parents also said that my behaviour for the last ten years in STC should have been considered in meting out a penalty. Mrs. Sacdalan said that these would be considered and that they would be called to a meeting again. After a week, they were called to a meeting and were told that the decision was final. My parents felt that all the points they raised were not even considered. And my father threatened to bring the case to court.

The administrative committee of the high school department had made their decision to give me a failing grade in my conduct grade for forgery. That would mean I would lose all the awards and recognitions until I graduate. When I learned that Dianne blamed everything to me, I talked to her and told her that isn't it, it was not I who forced her to change the costumes and forge the signatures? I even have witnesses, classmates who can attest to that because they were there when it happened. Dianne affirmed that it was not my fault. But Mrs Sacdalan claimed to my parents that Dianne was consistent in her statements that it was I who made her change the costumes and forge the signature.

During the months of August and September after the incident happened and while the investigation was supposedly still underway, my PE teacher was already spreading false stories about me in the faculty room. Mrs. Yalong claimed that I admitted to doing everything and that she felt betrayed. Mrs Sacdalan would make indirect remarks about me during meetings with the directors, choreographers and costume designers such as " O baka mamaya may palitan na naman kayo diyan." I also learned that the admin even made a new rule that students with failing grades in conduct cannot compete in inter-school contests. And for the past year I was already trained and I already competed and won in several contests. My math teacher-trainer was disappointed by this new rule since he already had competitions in mind where he would let me join.
I cried a lot since the whole case began. I dreaded going to school, hearing the side remarks, the false stories and accusations being hurled against me by some of my teachers. After the final decision was made, our family talked about what happened. I cried and told them I do not want to go back to STC again. We discussed all the options and they allowed me not to go to school while they were exploring the options available and while they try to have an audience with the school directress and the provincial superior of ICM.

We learned that to strengthen their case against me and attribute a "motive" they twisted facts about what happened during our 4 th year retreat last July. They invented the story of how I was told to inspect the bags of my class and list down those who brought cell phones, which was not allowed during STC activities. They said that I listed the names of all my classmates who brought their phones but purposely left out my name. They claimed that this angered my classmates and to make up I relented to changing the costumes and forged the signatures for the dance production.
But this is not true. What really happened was our Religion teacher Mr. Valencia made a surprise inspection of some of our bags and temporarily confiscated the cell phones of some of my classmates. After the retreat our class adviser Mrs. Rhodora Formalejo called us one by one because she said she felt that there was something wrong or there was an issue with the class. She asked us who brought their cell phones during the retreat. I and my classmates who brought their phones admitted to it. Mrs. Formalejo replied, " O sige sa atin-atin na lang iyon tapos na naman."
I also learned from my classmates that Alison Bayle was spreading gossips and bad things about me to my classmates while I was absent. She was also telling my classmates that Mrs Maria Teresa Bayle our principal was able to talk with some alumni who, she claims, told her that my mother was telling the alumni that I was being forced out of STC.
We also learned that right after the last meeting between Mrs. Sacdalan and my parents, a faculty meeting was called. We learned that our principal and the admin painted a bad picture of me before my 4th year teachers and that because of this, most of my 4th year teachers are angry at me even though I didn't do anything to them. We also learned that Mrs Sacdalan asked my PE and Music teachers to lower my grades for the 2 nd quarter.
We still hear that the gossips and the bad mouthing about me inside the faculty room continue.
I am so devastated by what happened and what is still happening. I really dread going back to STC. For weeks after the incident happened, I would drag myself to school every morning. It's as if everything I worked hard for, for the past 10 years I've been studying in STC was all gone in a snap. I've never had any infraction since Prep, and with that one incident, my life in STC was crushed. I couldn't take it anymore. I have been absent for two weeks, and I didn't take the quarter exams. But my two-week break from school did not lighten my feelings. How can I go back to STC knowing that the principal, the head of the Young People Management office, and majority of my 4th year teachers are angry at me and are bad mouthing me inside the faculty room?
Nevertheless I am still grateful to STC. I have been a scholar during my last three years at high school for being the top of the batch. More importantly, I enjoyed my first nine years at STC and I learned a lot. It has taught me to be responsible, to be concerned about our less fortunate brothers and sisters, and to be God-fearing. It has helped shaped me into who I am today and it has given me the opportunity to develop as a person and as a leader. But what happened is very traumatic for me. I have talked with my classmates recently to clarify the false stories being told about me, to thank them for their support and cooperation, and to tell them that I have enjoyed my time with them. It broke my heart seeing them cry and I cherish the hugs I received from them. Now, I just want to move on and to leave these things behind me. - Janpi Oliveros

************ ********* ********* *


I am not trying to ruin STC by coming out with this story. I just cannot afford to have STC's good name and reputation be ruined by some individuals with personal interests. And of course I feel the alumni ought to know about what happened.


Janpi is okay. She has taken college entrance exams in UP, Ateneo and DLSU. My tita has confirmed with DepED that to be eligible for college she just needs to pass the univ entrance and have a high school diploma. She is going to be home schooled til she gets a diploma.


Our family regret that Janpi will not graduate in STC. Too bad because she's supposedly my tita Osang's 1st daughter to graduate from STC HS and supposedly a valedictorian at that. Her elder sisters Celina Pia and Katrina Gianina went to STC grade school but graduated in Phil Science HS and QC Science HS respectively.


Why didn't they make those involved come face to face to settle the issue? It was really just a simple case which they used to bring Janpi down.

What would you do if you were in our shoes?

-Joyette Jopson HS96

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Grad Wish List

Wishing is the first step.

1. Lifetime of Secrets book - How wonderful.
2. My own Car - Otherwise, I'm driving Bobby's Mazda 3!
3. A new phone - I miss Cyler
4. That very HSP dress I saw awhile ago
5. Zara / Topshop / Dorothy Perkins Overload
6. Grand SURPRISE Grad party
7. My own place - Whatevs.
8. Fab job - c/o MarkProf already. Whew!

Invisible

I've never felt more unappreciated my whole life than today. How I wish I didn't do well in my recent activities. At least by then it wouldn't hurt this much. How I wish I didn't give it my all so that when they tell me those hurtful words, it wouldn't hit me this hard.

Good thing I'm not married to them. Just wait til I get my promising job this December / January. I'll be out in no time.

Sunday, September 30, 2007

Guess who's part of the Top 25 Marketing Management Trainees of the Philippines headed by none other than THE Josiah Go!?!?!?!?!?!

ME!

Greatest achievement of my life so far! LIFE IS SO GOOD TO ME. To God, be the glory.

http://markprof.org/home/

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Law of Sacrifice: You can't give everything to everybody

I learned that "law" during a Marketing competition that I joined last weekend.

Oh yes, I am part of the top hundred up and coming Marketers of the Philippines and I am so proud of it! Thing is, so is my YOUNGER brother.

Apparently, he joined the same competition and I knew about it only days before the 2nd phase. I hated the idea of him being there. I hated the idea of me being so scared that I might lose my chances of becoming part of the last batch standing because of him. Why does he even have to consider the idea of joining a competition that is so MINE? Or so I think it is.

He's always been VERY successful in all his endeavors. He's running for suma cum laude. He holds top positions in all his organizations. He won almost all the competitions that he's been into during his whole stay in Ateneo. He has organized countless successful events such as parties, fashion shows, etc PLUS everybody loves him. What's worse is that I do too. Hard as it may be for me to admit the idea, I know I do love him and that I am so proud of everything that he has accomplished. In fact, during emo moments, I feel so proud to be his sister.

But the night before the 2nd phase of the competition, I despised him. I can't accept that he's gonna be part of someting that I've been wanting to have for months. I was such a chicken shit because I knew that he could actually be part of the chosen group. I knew then that I had to do everything I could to win, not against all the other participants, but against my own brother. Losing is hard enough, but losing while you're brother gets accepted was so unacceptable.

Everything changed when he started doing all those sweet gestures during the competition. "Good luck, ate" "Tabi ka nalang sakin" "Good luck! :)" Ugh! He's so good at that that I just couldn't resist! What's worse is that I knew he was sincere. I hate it. I like it. Ugh.

I did my best and I am very sure he did his part too. I feel less selfish now that's why I'm ready to actually say this: I'm fine as long as one of us gets in the Top 25. If it's the two of us who are chosen, then lucky us. I am proud of how far we've come in terms of our goals in life and I hope that we'll both be successful in our chosen fields. Next time though, let me know about the competitions that you'll be joining so that I can join too. Boo yah!

Thursday, August 30, 2007

I haven't slept with a falloutboy so all I got is this blog

Here's an UPDATED list of self-realizations. Im looking forward to reading this 10 years after.

1. I've been to a lot of super expensive restaurants here and abroad but nothing beats the taste of fast food and good 'ol Mr. Kebab.

2. Nice clothes make me really happy but unique,lovely pieces from ukay ukay give me that unexplainable high.

3. I'm obsessed with plucking, fixing my bedsheet (making them so crisp is so addictive, and organizing my Ipod (titles should all be in small letters, etc.)

4. I thought I didn't like watching TV but when I finally had one in my room, I was hooked.

5. I may not seem like it but I actually love alternative and punk music. They make me steady happy.

6. Pink looks best on me than any other color.

7. I can never be on a strict diet. Ever.

8. I am better than I actually think I am.

9. The only people who could actually make me laugh my heart out are Conan O Brien, my bestfriend Ning, Melo Jose, Ramon Bautista, and the famous yet non-existent Ben.

10. I can never walk on icky, rocky, lumot-y, wet floors. Ugh. Thinking about it makes me shiver.

11. I am one jealous girl.

12. I will never age. I just know it. I have a heart of a hippie!

Friday, August 24, 2007

My new job as a Beckham groupie

I still consider the Olsen twins as my first love though.



I just can't resist loving Victoria Beckham. She's way too adorable! I love her! After watching her "documentary", I was hooked.

And oh..









Need I say more?

This ain't a scene, it's a goddamn arms race

My friend is getting married and I, along with all others, am very shocked.

Are we that mature enough to engage in such agreements? I don't think so. In fact, I feel so young that I'm finally getting my tattoo after my birthday. Bwaha. My long time idea is finally happening. How mature. Fine, the bride-to-be and I have different lifestyles already but I doubt that we have way different levels of maturity. In fact, I sometimes feel more mature than her when it comes to decisions regarding matters of the heart. But then again, I may be wrong. Honey, why?!?!?!?! Hinay lang, wag kang papasok sa di mo makakayang labasan pag kailangan na. I better get a superb explanation 'cause otherwise, I won't be believing in that marriage that much.

We once danced to Backstreet Boys and Moffatts songs. What happened to the whole "Let's have fun before marrying?"idea? God, I'm scared to even buy a dress that I'm gonna wear for THE (one and only) wedding that's (SUPPOSED TO) happen next year. Come on friends, we are still so young and free! Who would want to let go of that?!

I am totally tripped out by the whole thing. I can't let go of it that I had to call my in-a-relationship-but-definitely-not-married friend about it. Good thing she's on my side.

Goodluck 3cx. Hope you're happy. I will be if you are.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Fall in love with..



Falloutboy!

Sept. 21, 2007, Araneta Coliseum: It's a date! Thank you Bibi.

I CANT WAITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Time after time

I am sorry for hurting you that much. You don't deserve any of it but I know I just had to tell you sooner or later. There were a lot of things unsaid, a lot of issues not discussed. I must admit, I don't usually give out the secrets of my heart and mind, and I know that's totally unfair to you. I'll be waiting for the next time we're given the chance to talk.

If you're lost, you can look and you will find me, time after time.