Friday, January 26, 2007

Rome Jorge: The Story Behind The Journalist


Being on the shoes of a journalist is quite intriguing. People seem to think that this kind of job is not that profitable, while others think that it is full of excitement and adventure. A journalist might interview the most prominent person or just simply explore the lives of ordinary people. But most of all, this profession dares people to ask.

But what if the journalist plays the role of the interviewee?

A known-writer, Rome Jorge finally gets the chance to turn the tables and answer questions. As a journalist, he had interviewed personalities like Phoemela Barranda, Iya Villania, Ruffa Gutierrez-Bektas and Pops Fernandez among others. He is a columnist and staff-writer of The Manila Times' Lifestyle Section and a contributor to Manual and Mega magazines.

Romano Cortes Jorge chose the life of being a journalist because for him, this kind of job enables him to learn something new. Aside from meeting famous personalities, he also got the chance to do some things that common people couldn't do. It's like he has to work but that piece of work gives him some privileges or access to some important events around the corner. An example was when he got the chance to dive on one of the most beautiful diving spots in the country. Fortunately, because of his work, he had it for free.

At the age of 35, this UP graduate had somewhat lived the life that he wanted. Actually, he had just transferred to a new apartment and lives on his own. However, he couldn't help but compare his self to others. He admitted that the hardest thing about his life was when he sees that his colleagues have became doctors, lawyers etc., while he was still stuck in his same old roach-infested office.

Rome was sometimes concluded to be a metrosexual, but he defended himself against that misconception with an idea that “men is as vain as women.” Others think that he's a playboy but the truth is, he consider himself as a “torpe.”

On his plans about having a family, it seems like he knows what reality might bring to him. Enjoying his single-life as much as he could is a gamble. He confessed that he had dated single mothers and other girls around the corner but for him, marriage and kids will not guarantee that a relationship will work. According to him, he wanted to have a child of his own, but it would be alright for him to have none.

As of now, Rome is also teaching at The Manila Times School of Journalism. He admitted that he loves teaching the same way he loves to write. Teaching also adds digits to his pay check aside from being a journalist. Being able to do so, he had informed many students about feature writing and enabled him to understand his self more.

With all of those answers from a person who dares to ask, Rome had revealed himself not only as a journalist but also as a real person. He became true to his answers and similar to his articles, he never wasted a word to describe his life. Indeed, Rome proved, that aside from news articles and features, a journalist's life is also worth to be published.

Friday, December 01, 2006

A Tsinoy Stage Actor (The Gifted One v2)


Be the best that you can be and money will follow.”

Those were the inspiring words of 36 year-old stage actor, Nap Ching.

Nap is a Tsinoy, thus making him a little involved into business. It really wasn't his dream to act. At an early age he realized that he must earn money. But as he grew up, his perceptions have changed. He developed an intimate feeling for acting and performing.

He had his first exposure when he was still in grade school. Starred in a play entitled “Jonah and the Big Fish,” he reminisced his moments as it was only him and the “Big Fish” acting on stage. When he reached college, he had an exam wherein he could write his answers or act them out. And again, his acting skill helped him as he passed the test by just acting out his answers.

Nap became a part of a theater group before he underwent an acting workshop. As a professional stage actor, he really enjoyed his job. For him, every show is memorable especially when he got his first paycheck. However, being a stage actor doesn't promise a regular income. After every show, he had to audition for another one. So while he's not on stage, he teaches gymnastics for kids.

As he enters the spotlight, the audience would not see Nap. But instead, they would see what he is portraying. Every show transformed him into a new being. On the other hand, he describes himself as a passionate, funny and optimistic theater person. He doesn't take criticisms as negative comments. For him, those were like giving tips for him to improve. His will to learn made him stay young and be capable of achieving more success.

Playing humorous roles is what he loves. He wants his audience to smile and laugh inspite of today's hardships. With his comic acting , he was able to join ABS-CBN's “Clown in a Million” hosted by Bayani Agbayani and Vhong Navarro. And being part of it is one of his biggest breaks.

Nap never rejected any role for theater. But when he had an opportunity to do a television commercial for a brand of liquor and a cigarette, he refused to accept it. He didn't want to break his stand that he must serve as a role model especially for kids. To put it simply, he didn't want to go against his principles.

But God was really good to him. After rejecting the said commercial, a blessing knocked at his door. He was offered to do a television advertisement for Globe Telecommunications with young actor Geoff Eigenmann. With that, he added another big achievement to his list.

Between performing on stage and doing commercials, he prefers the former. He likes seeing the reactions of his audience as he performs. With his dramatic performances, he always had an instant reward, unlike in commercials that he had to wait for them to be aired before receiving some response. Also, the reactions that he could get were only from those who know him personally. Plus, it was already polished before it was aired to the public.

Nap doesn't have any dream role. But aside from his passion for comic roles, he also enjoys being a villain. On the other hand, he desires to work with the people behind any stage play or show. He really appreciates the tasks of the directors and the creative team. For him, the actors would be nothing without them.

With all of his achievements, Nap knows that he would go farther. Considering his attitude and passion for the craft, he would surely reach the top. He always makes the best out of his talent and for as long as the stage calls him, he would surely never stop sharing his gift.

Facing Reality (v2)


From a jam-packed LRT station; from a dozen of road blocks along Sta.Cruz; from rapid walking, at last I made it.

After an hour and a half, I reached the pit stop for this leg of the race, the JS2A room. The moment I stepped inside, I thought Sir Rome would say: ”Jeraine, you're the last person to arrive. I'm sorry to tell you, you have been eliminated from the race.”

But he didn't. As I finally took my seat, all my daydreaming faded into the nothingness. I had to absorb my environment. The place was not “Pinkantadia” - the walls were just pink. I felt extreme coldness, making me think that I was inside a huge freezer; fortunately that was just the noisy air con's fault. Someone was talking in front but he was not a reality show host – he was our professor. This wasn't a reality television series - we were just having our class. And with that, I had to leave my imaginary world and face reality.

Reality? A simple word with a simple meaning. It's all about truth, whole truth and nothing but the truth. Good or bad, depending on how you perceive a thing or an event, as long as it's for real, it falls under reality. However, some people are afraid to accept it and find it hard to deal with it.

Well as for me, I sometimes tend to have a fanciful world for the sake of my happiness. Even for a while, I would love to escape from this world and forget my hardships in life. But no matter what I do, reality would always sink in to my imaginary world. It would never stop reminding me that I'm still the same person struggling to survive in spite of my imperfections.

But it made a good gap out of my “Amazing Race” dream. I found another fault in me that I really want to fix. I have realized that on the course of being a good journalist, there would have to be more road blocks here that I have to face than in Sta. Cruz. The challenges that I have to take on would be really tough. And unfortunately, I am still weak to face it.

On the other hand, dreaming of achieving something wouldn't be enough. I have to strive hard and just hope for the best. I could dream of being in a reality television series or anything that I want, but still, I know that I have to improve, not only to win in my “Amazing Race” dream, but also more importantly to win in this reality---my reality.

Mabuhay Pacman! (v2)


Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao had put an end to another historical trilogy in the world of boxing.

With over 18,276 in attendance, and to the millions watching around the world, the Filipino southpaw once again made his countrymen proud as he successfully defeated Erik "El Terrible" Morales with a Technical Knock Out (TKO) as early as their third round.

The Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada was jampacked with supporters of each boxer. Reports also said that some Filipinos came from Canada, Australia and other parts of the United States. Both warriors almost have the equal number of fans. From time to time, the crowd would scream Pacquiao's name or do some Morales chants. But most of all, they were really proud of raising their flags as they cheer for their idols.

Boxing analysts weren't able to predict the match's winner. But they agreed that the Pacquiao-Morales Grand Finale would be a close fight. Morales, who is a former champion, wanted revenge against Pacquiao as the latter defeated him with a knock out at the 10th round of their second rematch. "No one has ever booed me out of the ring and no one ever will," Morales said. It's also a must win for the Mexican boxing legend as his boxing career would be at stake. "I feel it's a very important fight for my career because it's the one that I can't afford to lose. I have to win."

On the other hand, Pacquiao wanted to win, first and foremost, for his country, and to retain his World Boxing Council (WBC) Super Featherweight Title. "When I am in the ring, I am also fighting for my people. I want to make my country proud and make my fans happy. My country is important to me that is why I must win," Pacquiao said.

With Pacquiao's WBC Super Featherweight Title on the line, the match started with both boxers measuring each other's moves. Morales tried to corner his opponent to the ropes. But when Pacquiao started to build some momentum, Morales received different combination of Pacquiao's punches resulting to his swollen nose and cheeks.

On their second round, Pacquiao was advised by his trainor Freddie Roach, to get off the ropes. Both men were using their "in-and-out, up-and-down" strategies but it became more useful to the Filipino icon. The Mexican boxer went down for the first time after a shot close to his right ear, which made him lose his balance.

Pacquiao was overpowering Morales by the third round. Morales seem to be confused with Pacquiao's unstoppable attack. As he went down again for the second time, Pacquiao felt his dominance and never wasted time, sending his opponent to the canvas for the third time. Morales remain seated for seconds while staring at his father, Jose.

And with almost 14-seconds left, referee Vic Drakulich decided to call off the match, making Pacquiao win and retain his title.

Being victorious, Pacquiao registered a new record of 43-3-2 win-loss-draw, with 34 victories via knock out, while the Mexican boxing legend set his record to a 48-5-0 win-loss-draw having the same number of Pacquiao's victory via knock outs.

Both received a huge amount of prize, but the most rewarded here are the boxing fans as they have witnessed another great boxing trilogy wherein a Filipino boxing superstar emerged as the winner.

Indeed, it's another celebration for the People's Champion and for his inspiration, the Filipino people.

Aduana Experience (v2)


Along the busy streets of Port Area in Manila lies a restaurant that caters most of the workaholic employees, some foreigners, students and other people that simply want to have great food at an affordable price.

And the name to remember, the “Aduana Ice Cream House.”

“Aduanas,” as people usually call it, serves as an oasis for customers who suffer from hunger. It is also a place for people who wanted to escape, even just for a while, from their demanding responsibilities and share their thoughts and experiences with each other. Aduanas offers a wide range of choices. They serve appetizers, main courses, desserts, noodles, salads and soups, sandwiches, and beverages as well. And as you enter their place, your senses will be stimulated with the luscious aroma of the food that awaits you. It's like a grand welcome to their most important guest... you. Moreover, the relaxing ambiance of their place will make you feel at home while eating.

Thinking of what to eat? Well, this may help you.

For those who want something that will excite their appetite, Aduanas have chicken feet, commonly called Adidas, for just P65 . Seafood lovers could enjoy Kinilaw na Tangigue, which can be equally enjoyed with beer. But most people prefer to have their most popular food – the Aduana's Sizzling Sisig that costs P125. Clients can choose among pork, pusit, or tuna sisig which they could eat with rice or match with beer.

Stomachs that crave for noodles, salads and soups could have Chicken Macaroni Salad for only P50 or a taste of Batangas with their Bulalo for just a hundred bucks.

Aduanas also have their “Aduana Ice Cream House Specials” which include Pork BBQ, Sinigang na Hipon, Tangigue Steak and Boneless Bangus with rice. Their prices range from P65-P120, but they promise that when they mean “special,” they mean “special.” Their mouth-watering specialties will surely make you want more.

On the other hand, customers who want that “tapsilog experince” could have the Aduana All-day Meals for only P68. They offer not just tapa, fried rice and fried egg but also other viands like lechon kawali, chicken adobo, beef teriyaki and longanisa among others. The meal also comes with a regular glass of iced tea or a cup of brewed coffee.

For merienda time, a bacon sandwich worth P45 or a jumbo hotdog sandwich that costs P55 will be a perfect treat. Both sandwiches come with a regular glass of iced tea. But for those who want other beverages, you can choose among their ice cream milk shakes, sago't gulaman or a glass of soda while enjoying other snacks like Monte Cristo or a chicken sandwich.

And for people with sweet tooth, prepare yourself for their yummy ice cream and desserts. A wide selection among different flavors of ice cream, like chocolate and strawberry among others, cost P30 per scoop. Clients who wish for a taste of leche flan could have it for just P29. And to top them all is the Aduana Salad Royale, another delectable specialty for just a hundred bucks.

Dining at the Aduana Ice Cream House could be enjoyed more if you have someone with you.; your family, colleagues, classmates or friends. Because going to Aduanas is not just simply eating... it's an experience. And with their good food, it' definitely an experience that's worth to be shared.

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

sounds so creepy...

Neverland Ranch Investigators Discover Corpse Of Real Michael Jackson


http://www.theonion.com/content/node/30940

Mabuhay Pacman!!!

Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao had put an end to another historical trilogy in the world of boxing.

With over 18,276 in attendance, and to the millions watching around the world, our 27-year old kababayan raised again our flag as he successfully defeated Erik "El Terrible" Morales with a Technical Knock Out (TKO) as early as their third round.

The Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada was jampacked with supporters of each boxer. Reports also said that some Filipinos came from Canada, Australia and other parts of the United States. Both warriors almost have the equal number of fans. From time to time, the crowd would scream Pacquiao's name or do some Morales chants. But most of all, they were really proud of raising their flags as they cheer for their idols.

Boxing analysts weren't able to predict the match's winner. But they agreed that the Pacquiao-Morales Grand Finale would be a close fight. 30-year old Morales, who is a former champion, wanted revenge against Pacquiao as the latter defeated him with a knock out at the 10th round of their second rematch. Also, it's a must win for the Mexican boxing legend as his boxing career would be at stake.

On the other hand, Pacquiao wanted to win, first and foremost, for his country, and to retain his World Boxing Council Super Featherweight Title. Plus, he doesn't want to disappoint all of his fans around the world.

With Pacquiao's WBC Super Featherweight Title on the line, the match started with both boxers feeling each other. Morales tried to corner his opponent to the ropes. But when Pacquiao started to build some momentum, Morales received different combination of Pacquiao's punches resulting to his swollen nose and cheeks.

On their second round, Pacquiao was advised by his trainor Freddie Roach, to get off the ropes. Both men were using their "in-and-out, up-and-down" strategies but it became more useful to our kababayan. The Mexican boxer went down for the first time after a shot close to his right ear, which made him lose his balance.

Pacquiao was overpowering Morales by the third round. Morales seem to be confused with Pacquiao's unstoppable attack. As he went down again for the second time, Pacquiao felt his dominance and never wasted time, sending his opponent to the canvass for the third time. Morales remain seated for seconds while staring at his father, Jose.

And with almost 14-seconds left, referee Vic Drakulich decide to call off the match, making Pacquiao win and retain his title. Being victorious, Pacquiao registered a new record of 43-3-2 win-loss-draw, with 34 victories via knock out, while the Mexican boxing legend set his record to a 48-5-0 win-loss-draw having the same number of Pacquiao's victory via knock outs.

Both received a huge amount of prize, but the most rewarded here are the boxing fans, as they have witnessed another great boxing trilogy wherein a kayumanggi emerged as the winner.

Indeed, "Tinapos ni Pacman ang laban."

Sunday, November 19, 2006

The Gifted One...

"Be the best that you can be and money will follow."


Those were the inspiring words of 36 year-old stage actor, Nap Ching.
Nap is a Tsinoy, thus making him a little devoted to business. It really wasn't his dream to act. At an early age he realized that he must earn money. But as he grew up, his perceptions have changed. He developed an intimate feeling for acting and performing.


He had his first exposure when he was still in grade school. Starred in a play entitled "Jonah and the Big Fish," he reminisced his moments as it was only him and the "Big Fish" acting on stage. When he reached college, he had an exam wherein he could write his answers or act them out. And again, his acting skill helped him as he passed the test by just acting out his answers.


Nap became a part of a theater group before he underwent an acting workshop. As a professional stage actor, he really enjoyed his job. For him, every show is memorable especially when he got his first paycheck. However, being a stage actor doesn't promise a regular income. After every show, he had to audition for another one. So while he's not on stage, he teaches gymnastics for kids.


As he enters the spotlight, the audience would not see Nap. But instead, they would see what he is portraying. Every show transformed him into a new being. On the other hand, he describes himself as a passionate, funny and optimistic theater guy. He doesn't take criticisms as negative comments. For him, those were like giving tips for him to improve. His will to learn made him stay young and be capable of achieving more success.


Playing humorous roles is what he loves. He wants his audience to smile and laugh inspite of today's hardships. With his comic acting , he was able to join ABS-CBN's “Clown in a Million”
hosted by Bayani Agbayani and Vhong Navarro. And being part of it is one of his biggest breaks.



Nap never rejected any role for theater. But when he had an opportunity to do a television commercial for a brand of liquor and a cigarette, he refused to accept it. He didn't want to break his stand that he must serve as a role model especially for kids. To put it simply, he didn't want to go against his principles.


But God was really good to him. After rejecting the said commercial, a blessing knocked at his door. He was offered to do a television advertisement for Globe Telecommunications with young actor Geoff Eigenmann. With that, he added another big achievement to his list.


Between performing on stage and doing commercials, he prefers the former. He likes seeing the reactions of his audience as he performs, and with his dramatic performances, he always had an instant reward, unlike in commercials that he had to wait for them to be aired before receiving some response. Also, the reactions that he could get were only from those who know him personally. Plus, it was already polished before it was aired to the public.


Nap doesn't have any dream role. But aside from his passion for comic roles, he also enjoys being a villain. On the other hand, he desires to work with the people behind any stage play or show. He really appreciates the tasks of the directors and the creative team. For him, the actors would be nothing without them.


With all of his achievements, Nap knows that he would go farther. Considering his attitude and passion for the craft, he would surely reach the top. He always makes the best out of his talent and for as long as the stage calls him, he would surely never stop sharing his gift.

Monday, November 13, 2006

A star to reach...

As I look up in the sky
With clouds so dark
And diamonds that glitter
I can't help myself but wonder
Where will I see you?
When will I be with you?

You seem so far
And for me you're a star
With million miles away from me
I'd be lucky enough if you could see me

You seem to be so high
Yet I don't know why I still try
To reach you, to hold you
That's what I dream of
But I fear a lot
Would you have a glimpse on me
If we could share the same spot

Everyone promises to catch you
But me? I'll just stay here for you
To listen on your sorrows
To cheer you up in times of trouble
To be strong as your shoulder

No matter how long I wait
For you to know my existence
With the Man listening up above
There's still fate that I believe
Our eyes will soon meet

For your smile wipes my tears
For your voice telling me not to fear
And for the glow you give to my heart
I know there's still hope
There is... There is...

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

Aduana Experience...

Along the busy streets of Port Area in Manila lies a restaurant that caters most of the workaholic employees, foreigners, students and other people that simply want to have great food at an affordable price.

And the name to remember…the “Aduana Ice Cream House.”


“Aduanas”, as people usually call it, serves as an oasis for customers who suffer from hunger. It is also a place for people who want to escape, even just for a while, from their demanding responsibilities and share their thoughts and experiences with each other.

Aduanas offers a wide range of choices. They serve appetizers, main courses, desserts, noodles, salads and soups, sandwiches, and beverages as well. And as you enter their place, your senses will be stimulated with the luscious aroma of the food that awaits you. It's like a grand welcome to their most important guest... you. Moreover, the relaxing ambiance of their place will make you feel at home while eating.


Thinking of what to eat? Well, this may help you.


For those who want something that will excite their appetite, Aduanas have chicken feet, commonly called Adidas, for just P65 . Seafood lovers could enjoy Kinilaw na Tangigue, which can be equally enjoyed with beer. But most people prefer to have their most popular food – the Aduana's Sizzling Sisig that costs P125. Clients can choose among pork, pusit, or tuna sisig which they could eat with rice or match it with beer.


Stomachs that crave for noodles, salads and soups could have Chicken Macaroni Salad for only P50 or a taste of Batangas with their Bulalo for just a hundred bucks.


Aduanas also have their “Aduana Ice Cream House Specials” which include Pork BBQ, Sinigang na Hipon, Tangigue Steak and Boneless Bangus with rice. Their prices range from P65-P120, but they promise that when they mean “special”, they mean “special.” Their mouth-watering specialties will surely make you want more.


On the other hand, customers who want that “tapsilog experince” could have the Aduana All-day Meals for only P68. They offer not just tapa, fried rice and fried egg but also other viands like lechon kawali, chicken adobo, beef teriyaki and longanisa among others. The meal also comes with a regular glass of iced tea or a cup of brewed coffee.


For merienda time, a bacon sandwich worth P45 or a jumbo hotdog sandwich that costs P55 will be a perfect treat. Both sandwiches come with a regular glass of iced tea. But for those who want other beverages, you can choose among their ice cream milk shakes, sago't gulaman or a glass of soda while enjoying other snacks like Monte Cristo or a chicken sandwich.

And for people with sweet tooth, yummy ice cream and desserts awaits you. A wide selection among different flavors of ice cream, like chocolate and strawberry among others, cost P30 per scoop. Clients who wish for a taste of leche flan could have it for just P29. And to top them all is the Aduana Salad Royale, another delectable specialty for just a hundred bucks.

But of course, dining at Aduana Ice Cream House could be enjoyed more if you have someone with you; like your family, co-workers, classmates or friends. Because going to Aduanas is not just simply eating... it's an experience. And with their good food, it's definitely an experience worth to be shared.

Sunday, November 05, 2006

yummy halo-halo...

Raine or Shine:
Savoring the 'halo-halo'

by Tristan G. Jovellana


http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/TagalogDefaultfiles/PhilippineCulture/halohalo.htm


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