Karlo's entry
#6 slice
12 May 2005
Dear Blog,
It's been a long time since we've experienced each other. (Look! I've grown much hair). My deepest apologies for leaving you hanging in the void for eons. I have been busy nursing my bruised article, hunting down elusive OWWA people whom should be the main sources of my long feature, and dreaming of being with naked nymphs and floating phantoms as we get lost in a spectacle of changing colors. I also have my hands full finding ways to gather money for my tuition (Damn CAP!--Man, how they fail people.). I can't seem to focus; too much pressure surround. But that's just fine. It's all part of life...this massive life that in time shall swallow us all wholly. Oh, and uh...did I mention self-righteous sickos get eaten first?
Missing you,
your LOver
Friday, May 13, 2005
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Ace's entry: One down, one to go
Ace's Entry
ONE DOWN, ONE TO GO
3 May 2005 Tuesday
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
Despite Sir Leo's praises and the festive mood happening in my brain,
I told myself: BAWAL MATULOG SA PANSITAN.
That afternoon, I interviewed Capt. Adonis Donato about the
employability of Pinoy seafarers…for the second OFWJC article. (By the
way, I slightly changed my angle since Sir Leo already wrote about the
Management Level Courses…I am now writing about maritime training and
its relation to the employment status of Filipino seamen…at least
they're related)
In my April 28 article, I discussed about journalistic orgasm. With
the details I got today from Mr. Donato and the DOLE site, I can say
that I'm now pregnant….with ideas. Sana isilang ko ng maluwalhati ang
second article…
Today is a significant day in Alexian History. My work is published
today…and as I told you, seeing one's byline or tagline is every
writer's fantasy.
Minsan lang mangyari ang moment na ganito kaya aabusuhin ko na….
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
ONE DOWN, ONE TO GO
3 May 2005 Tuesday
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
Despite Sir Leo's praises and the festive mood happening in my brain,
I told myself: BAWAL MATULOG SA PANSITAN.
That afternoon, I interviewed Capt. Adonis Donato about the
employability of Pinoy seafarers…for the second OFWJC article. (By the
way, I slightly changed my angle since Sir Leo already wrote about the
Management Level Courses…I am now writing about maritime training and
its relation to the employment status of Filipino seamen…at least
they're related)
In my April 28 article, I discussed about journalistic orgasm. With
the details I got today from Mr. Donato and the DOLE site, I can say
that I'm now pregnant….with ideas. Sana isilang ko ng maluwalhati ang
second article…
Today is a significant day in Alexian History. My work is published
today…and as I told you, seeing one's byline or tagline is every
writer's fantasy.
Minsan lang mangyari ang moment na ganito kaya aabusuhin ko na….
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
MY WORK GOT PUBLISHED IN THE OFWJC PACKET!
Ace's entry: The OWWA files episode 4
Ace's Entry
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 4
2 May 2005 Monday
This morning, I submitted a revised version of my Maritime Forum
article. From 1 and 1/8 page, it became a 4 paged news feature. I
followed the advice of Sir Leo by changing the angle of the report.
And indeed, through my new angle, (feedback mechanism), the other
contents of the story flowed smoothly.
Later on, Sir Jere asked me to call OFWJC for some clarifications
about the article. I called Sir Denis so I can answer some questions
about OWWA's Halfway Home. He then asked about my working relations
with Sir Leo. I told him I'm very happy with my pace and my training.
When I asked him if my article would have the honor of occupying a
space in the next OFWJC packet, he said "Titingnan ko"
That night I prayed: "Lord, Sana po umabot po yung article ko para
makasama sa packet. Amen.
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 4
2 May 2005 Monday
This morning, I submitted a revised version of my Maritime Forum
article. From 1 and 1/8 page, it became a 4 paged news feature. I
followed the advice of Sir Leo by changing the angle of the report.
And indeed, through my new angle, (feedback mechanism), the other
contents of the story flowed smoothly.
Later on, Sir Jere asked me to call OFWJC for some clarifications
about the article. I called Sir Denis so I can answer some questions
about OWWA's Halfway Home. He then asked about my working relations
with Sir Leo. I told him I'm very happy with my pace and my training.
When I asked him if my article would have the honor of occupying a
space in the next OFWJC packet, he said "Titingnan ko"
That night I prayed: "Lord, Sana po umabot po yung article ko para
makasama sa packet. Amen.
Ace's entry: The OWWA files episode 3
Ace's Entry
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 3
1 May 2005 Sunday
Today is Labor Day Sunday but still, business is business. I revised
the OWWA Halfway Home article since Bill Huang, the Bangkok-based
editor, placed some questions that I need to answer to clarify the
contents of the feature. He also asked me to translate some quotes
for foreign audiences.
I immediately consulted my notes and submitted the article (again) to Sir Denis.
OOPS…
One funny thing though…the answers to Mr. Huang's questions can be
found in the original, unedited version of my article…
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 3
1 May 2005 Sunday
Today is Labor Day Sunday but still, business is business. I revised
the OWWA Halfway Home article since Bill Huang, the Bangkok-based
editor, placed some questions that I need to answer to clarify the
contents of the feature. He also asked me to translate some quotes
for foreign audiences.
I immediately consulted my notes and submitted the article (again) to Sir Denis.
OOPS…
One funny thing though…the answers to Mr. Huang's questions can be
found in the original, unedited version of my article…
Ace's entry: From papers to airwaves
Ace's Entry
FROM PAPERS TO AIRWAVES
30 April 2005 Saturday
This time it's for real. I bragged about appearing in radio in my
first entry, even though I was just there for some greetings.
But this time it's different…for today, I read news for DZAR's "Buhay Marino."
The news I read was a translation of my Maritime Forum News. Of
course, I cut it down to a specific topic since the program's air time
is limited (one of the constraints of the broadcast medium perhaps).
Here's the news I wrote and read:
Niloloko lang natin ang ating mga sarili kung ipipilit natin ang
makalumang maritime training. Ito ang iginiit ni Wenifredo Sola,
pangulo ng Philippine Association of Maritime Training Centers sa
Maritime Forum kamakalawa. Ayon kay Sola, dumarami ang mga
pangangailangan ng maritime industry at patuloy na tumataas ang antas
ng teknolohiya kaya dapat ay lumawak din ang kakayahan ng mga marino.
Ngunit nilinaw din niya na hindi ang pagpapaulit ng mga kursong naaral
na ang tutugon sa mga bagong pangangailangan ng industriya. Sa halip,
iminungkahi niya ang pagkakaroon ng mga bagong kurso hinggil sa mga
bagong makinarya at mga leksyon na magpapaunlad sa mga natutunan sa
Basic Education Degree. (Ito si Alexis Romero, nag-uulat para sa Buhay
Marino)
My "minutes of fame" on radio did not reach even half of the fifteen
minutes. (Does it mean I have more minutes? How can I check my
balance?) But oh, that was an experience. It's part of the holistic
training I am experiencing under sir Leo… (Imagine hitting two birds
in one stone – training for print and broadcast at the same time!) I
thank him for that.
SIDELIGHTS: este CONFESSION:
Nag text brigade ako sa mga kamag anak at kaklase ko a day before.
Exact message:
KUNG MAY ORAS KAYO, MAKINIG KAYO NG RADYO, BAKA MAGBASA AKO NG BALITA.
1026 KHZ, AM, "BUHAY MARINO". "LILITAW AKO SA RADYO." BWAHAHA. SIGE,
SALAMAT. (Talagang all caps ako mag text)
FROM PAPERS TO AIRWAVES
30 April 2005 Saturday
This time it's for real. I bragged about appearing in radio in my
first entry, even though I was just there for some greetings.
But this time it's different…for today, I read news for DZAR's "Buhay Marino."
The news I read was a translation of my Maritime Forum News. Of
course, I cut it down to a specific topic since the program's air time
is limited (one of the constraints of the broadcast medium perhaps).
Here's the news I wrote and read:
Niloloko lang natin ang ating mga sarili kung ipipilit natin ang
makalumang maritime training. Ito ang iginiit ni Wenifredo Sola,
pangulo ng Philippine Association of Maritime Training Centers sa
Maritime Forum kamakalawa. Ayon kay Sola, dumarami ang mga
pangangailangan ng maritime industry at patuloy na tumataas ang antas
ng teknolohiya kaya dapat ay lumawak din ang kakayahan ng mga marino.
Ngunit nilinaw din niya na hindi ang pagpapaulit ng mga kursong naaral
na ang tutugon sa mga bagong pangangailangan ng industriya. Sa halip,
iminungkahi niya ang pagkakaroon ng mga bagong kurso hinggil sa mga
bagong makinarya at mga leksyon na magpapaunlad sa mga natutunan sa
Basic Education Degree. (Ito si Alexis Romero, nag-uulat para sa Buhay
Marino)
My "minutes of fame" on radio did not reach even half of the fifteen
minutes. (Does it mean I have more minutes? How can I check my
balance?) But oh, that was an experience. It's part of the holistic
training I am experiencing under sir Leo… (Imagine hitting two birds
in one stone – training for print and broadcast at the same time!) I
thank him for that.
SIDELIGHTS: este CONFESSION:
Nag text brigade ako sa mga kamag anak at kaklase ko a day before.
Exact message:
KUNG MAY ORAS KAYO, MAKINIG KAYO NG RADYO, BAKA MAGBASA AKO NG BALITA.
1026 KHZ, AM, "BUHAY MARINO". "LILITAW AKO SA RADYO." BWAHAHA. SIGE,
SALAMAT. (Talagang all caps ako mag text)
Ace's entry: Lovemaking day
Ace's Entry
LOVEMAKING DAY
28 April 2005 Thursday
TIME: 9:00 – 11:30 AM
EVENT: Maritime Forum
VENUE: Pan Pacific Hotel in Manila
I covered the Maritime Forum which tackled the training needs of
seafarers. The event was organized by no other than the leading
maritime journalist in the Philippines—Mr. Leonillo Santiago. (mentor
ko yan!). Representatives from TESDA, PRC, Training centers, and
shipping companies shared their views and their suggestions about the
maritime industry and curriculum. The topics included the need for a
feedback mechanism to improve the maritime curriculum, the
communication barrier among Filipino seamen, the need for innovative
maritime courses and the need for a body that will take care of
Maritime education and certification.
The discussions were meaty…so meaty that the notebook provided to me
by OFWJC no longer has empty pages. But at least I got several quotes
and perspectives which I think are more than enough to develop my
second OFWJC story (this time, about seafarers' employment). I'm also
sure the presence of several sources can provide Buhay Marino
Newspaper a credible story.
SIDELIGHTS: While I'm here in Pan Pacific, my co-interns, together
with their mentors are in DOLE to cover a press conference about Labor
day.
TIME: About 12:15 – 2:30 PM
EVENT: 3rd Philippine Ports and Shipping Exhibition and Conference 2005
VENUE: Manila Peninsula Hotel
The event was hosted by the Philippine Ports Authority and endorsed by
DOTC. It featured exhibits by different sponsors, each offering
products and services that could benefit the seafarers. Some of these
sponsors include Smart, Globe, Quest, Pisa, Maersk Sealand, Asian
Terminals Incorporated, and P and O ports.
Mr. Santiago and I were able to take a peek at the conference which
discussed matters about cargo ships. Most of the delegates in the
forum were foreigners concerned about the delivery of goods via the
seas. But since we no longer had any seats, my mentor and I
immediately left the hall. My mentor met some of his friends, most of
which are also maritime journalists. They talked about certain
maritime issues and trends. Later on, I helped the Buhay Marino staff
distribute copies of our maritime paper to visitors and delegates who
viewed the exhibits.
SIDELIGHTS:
- Thanks to C/M Rene Sanggalang, (co-anchor of Sir Leo in Buhay
Marino radio program) for the free ride and free lunch. God bless you.
- That afternoon, I told myself I must have copies of press releases
so I can write about these events for Buhay Marino. I then spotted a
brown-skinned lady who serves as a receptionist of the exhibit.
ME: Excuse me, meron po ba kayong press release nito para…
GIRL: I'm sorry, please speak in English… (She's from India! I never
knew it until I saw the round thing in her forehead. Akala ko Pinay.)
No press releases were issued.
TIME: About 3:15 – 6:16 PM
EVENT: Buhay Marino Press Work
VENUE: Buhay Marino Office in Morayta, Manila
I joined the Buhay Marino press work. I wrote my Maritime Forum
article using my notes. After finishing the article, Sir Leo asked me
to report on Saturday in Ortigas so I can read news for DZAR's Buhay
Marino. He advised me to translate my news in Filipino so the
listeners can better understand my message.
That afternoon, Sir Leo forwarded my revised article to Sir Denis, who
will in turn, forward it to the Bangkok-based editor for scrutinizing.
SIDELIGHTS: Sir Leo is one of the best morale boosters I've known.
Every time he introduces me to his friends, he will mention positive
remarks that will make me appear good to these people.
TIME: 6:30 PM
EVENT: Wala lang
VENUE: McDonald's Lepanto
After a long day, I rewarded myself with Chicken Nuggets, Coke,
McFlurry and Cheeseburger. Indeed, eating in a fast food is the best
thing to do before going home. God bless the soul of whoever
conceptualized fast food…
DAY'S SUMMARY:
I might sound offensive…and I'm sorry. But this day is like a
"lovemaking day" for me. Today, I gathered data for a potential OFWJC
story…just like a male and female copulating to give life to a
potential being. (But don't get me wrong! I won't do that until I'm
married! Conservative ako bah!). And I believe that when a journalist
is focused on his legwork, he will eventually come up with a good idea
that will guide the formation and flow of his story…which I shall call
"journalistic orgasm". But one word of advice: This orgasm won't be
reached if the reporter is too lazy to gather facts or too shy to
interview people. No legwork, no journalistic orgasm. Walang sarap
kung walang hirap.
LOVEMAKING DAY
28 April 2005 Thursday
TIME: 9:00 – 11:30 AM
EVENT: Maritime Forum
VENUE: Pan Pacific Hotel in Manila
I covered the Maritime Forum which tackled the training needs of
seafarers. The event was organized by no other than the leading
maritime journalist in the Philippines—Mr. Leonillo Santiago. (mentor
ko yan!). Representatives from TESDA, PRC, Training centers, and
shipping companies shared their views and their suggestions about the
maritime industry and curriculum. The topics included the need for a
feedback mechanism to improve the maritime curriculum, the
communication barrier among Filipino seamen, the need for innovative
maritime courses and the need for a body that will take care of
Maritime education and certification.
The discussions were meaty…so meaty that the notebook provided to me
by OFWJC no longer has empty pages. But at least I got several quotes
and perspectives which I think are more than enough to develop my
second OFWJC story (this time, about seafarers' employment). I'm also
sure the presence of several sources can provide Buhay Marino
Newspaper a credible story.
SIDELIGHTS: While I'm here in Pan Pacific, my co-interns, together
with their mentors are in DOLE to cover a press conference about Labor
day.
TIME: About 12:15 – 2:30 PM
EVENT: 3rd Philippine Ports and Shipping Exhibition and Conference 2005
VENUE: Manila Peninsula Hotel
The event was hosted by the Philippine Ports Authority and endorsed by
DOTC. It featured exhibits by different sponsors, each offering
products and services that could benefit the seafarers. Some of these
sponsors include Smart, Globe, Quest, Pisa, Maersk Sealand, Asian
Terminals Incorporated, and P and O ports.
Mr. Santiago and I were able to take a peek at the conference which
discussed matters about cargo ships. Most of the delegates in the
forum were foreigners concerned about the delivery of goods via the
seas. But since we no longer had any seats, my mentor and I
immediately left the hall. My mentor met some of his friends, most of
which are also maritime journalists. They talked about certain
maritime issues and trends. Later on, I helped the Buhay Marino staff
distribute copies of our maritime paper to visitors and delegates who
viewed the exhibits.
SIDELIGHTS:
- Thanks to C/M Rene Sanggalang, (co-anchor of Sir Leo in Buhay
Marino radio program) for the free ride and free lunch. God bless you.
- That afternoon, I told myself I must have copies of press releases
so I can write about these events for Buhay Marino. I then spotted a
brown-skinned lady who serves as a receptionist of the exhibit.
ME: Excuse me, meron po ba kayong press release nito para…
GIRL: I'm sorry, please speak in English… (She's from India! I never
knew it until I saw the round thing in her forehead. Akala ko Pinay.)
No press releases were issued.
TIME: About 3:15 – 6:16 PM
EVENT: Buhay Marino Press Work
VENUE: Buhay Marino Office in Morayta, Manila
I joined the Buhay Marino press work. I wrote my Maritime Forum
article using my notes. After finishing the article, Sir Leo asked me
to report on Saturday in Ortigas so I can read news for DZAR's Buhay
Marino. He advised me to translate my news in Filipino so the
listeners can better understand my message.
That afternoon, Sir Leo forwarded my revised article to Sir Denis, who
will in turn, forward it to the Bangkok-based editor for scrutinizing.
SIDELIGHTS: Sir Leo is one of the best morale boosters I've known.
Every time he introduces me to his friends, he will mention positive
remarks that will make me appear good to these people.
TIME: 6:30 PM
EVENT: Wala lang
VENUE: McDonald's Lepanto
After a long day, I rewarded myself with Chicken Nuggets, Coke,
McFlurry and Cheeseburger. Indeed, eating in a fast food is the best
thing to do before going home. God bless the soul of whoever
conceptualized fast food…
DAY'S SUMMARY:
I might sound offensive…and I'm sorry. But this day is like a
"lovemaking day" for me. Today, I gathered data for a potential OFWJC
story…just like a male and female copulating to give life to a
potential being. (But don't get me wrong! I won't do that until I'm
married! Conservative ako bah!). And I believe that when a journalist
is focused on his legwork, he will eventually come up with a good idea
that will guide the formation and flow of his story…which I shall call
"journalistic orgasm". But one word of advice: This orgasm won't be
reached if the reporter is too lazy to gather facts or too shy to
interview people. No legwork, no journalistic orgasm. Walang sarap
kung walang hirap.
Ace's entry: The OWWA Files Episode 2
Ace's Entry
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 2
27 April 2005 Wednesday
"Tacky Title"
"Weak lead"
"Too long"
These summarize the negative comments of Mr. Dennis Estopace on my
first draft. But wait, hinay hinay lang, my dear fans (Duh! Feeling!).
Please do not call him "the Menace." Each of his comments has basis.
Why?
"Tacky Title" – "OWWA Halfway Home: Home before home sweet home? O di
ba? Need I say more?
"Weak Lead" – I wrote about the airport staff saying "Mabuhay" or
"Welcome Home" to OFWs…and the fact that OFWs can't use them in
looking for a place in the city. Maybe Mr. Estopace wanted a lead that
would really focus on the transients' problems. Point well taken.
Too long – 1.300 plus words. Sir Denis wanted an article with a
maximum of 999 words.
Revise…Revise…Revise…and with some sort of divine intervention and
perhaps some omissions (yung iba ay pikit matang ginawa), I met the
required 999 words (not including the title of course). And again,
submitted the article today through e-mail.
One might ask: Are you not demoralized with that system? The answer is No. Why?
Sanayan lang yan
The critics here are competent (hindi yung kung sinu-sino lang na
wala namang alam sa journalism ngunit nanlalait ng gawa ng may gawa
para lamang may masabi at lumitaw kunwaring may alam din sila.
Since the critics are competent, their views are valid.
Despite the negative comments, the critics know how to appreciate.
To prove the last claim, I'll give you evidences. These are comments
also from Sir Denis. And since I began this entry with comments, it is
fitting to end it with comments, this time, positive ones.
"The best part of the story's on the part where "OFWs may ask."
"The best sound byte in the story's Roque saying: "Binabanlawan
namin sila." Ang galing ng capture ni Romero dito. I suggest we place
that quote high in the story."
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 2
27 April 2005 Wednesday
"Tacky Title"
"Weak lead"
"Too long"
These summarize the negative comments of Mr. Dennis Estopace on my
first draft. But wait, hinay hinay lang, my dear fans (Duh! Feeling!).
Please do not call him "the Menace." Each of his comments has basis.
Why?
"Tacky Title" – "OWWA Halfway Home: Home before home sweet home? O di
ba? Need I say more?
"Weak Lead" – I wrote about the airport staff saying "Mabuhay" or
"Welcome Home" to OFWs…and the fact that OFWs can't use them in
looking for a place in the city. Maybe Mr. Estopace wanted a lead that
would really focus on the transients' problems. Point well taken.
Too long – 1.300 plus words. Sir Denis wanted an article with a
maximum of 999 words.
Revise…Revise…Revise…and with some sort of divine intervention and
perhaps some omissions (yung iba ay pikit matang ginawa), I met the
required 999 words (not including the title of course). And again,
submitted the article today through e-mail.
One might ask: Are you not demoralized with that system? The answer is No. Why?
Sanayan lang yan
The critics here are competent (hindi yung kung sinu-sino lang na
wala namang alam sa journalism ngunit nanlalait ng gawa ng may gawa
para lamang may masabi at lumitaw kunwaring may alam din sila.
Since the critics are competent, their views are valid.
Despite the negative comments, the critics know how to appreciate.
To prove the last claim, I'll give you evidences. These are comments
also from Sir Denis. And since I began this entry with comments, it is
fitting to end it with comments, this time, positive ones.
"The best part of the story's on the part where "OFWs may ask."
"The best sound byte in the story's Roque saying: "Binabanlawan
namin sila." Ang galing ng capture ni Romero dito. I suggest we place
that quote high in the story."
Ace's Entry (SPECIAL EDITION): The OWWA files episode 1
Ace's Entry (SPECIAL EDITION)
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 1
26 April 2005 Tuesday
MANILA – After countless "phone pestering" and story outlining, an
aspiring journalist took pride in saying that he has finished the
first draft of his OWWA feature story.
Alexis, 20, a resident of Sampaloc and an intern of OFW Journalism Consortium
(OFWJC) submitted his first draft via e-mail to his mentor, Leonillo
Santiago, who will in turn, pass it to Dennis Estopace, OFWJC Vice
president. "Ang sarap ng feeling" Romero said. "Para kang nabunutan ng
tinik at nawalan constipation"
The story, which featured the launching of OWWA's Halfway Home for
transients and distressed OFWs, contained more than 1,300 words.
Romero attributes the length of the story to the relevance of the data
collected.
"It was supposed to be a short story but the information gathered are
so relevant…it's hard to discard them" he said. "Thanks to the patient
people and the informative literature available to me"
But despite the accomplishment, Romero said that he is ready to revise
or improve the article. "Yung haba pa lang nun baka isumpa na ako ng
editors ko. But that's journalism..parang kakambal na ng revisions" he
said.
Romero's article is part of his tasks as an intern of OFWJC.
THE OWWA FILES EPISODE 1
26 April 2005 Tuesday
MANILA – After countless "phone pestering" and story outlining, an
aspiring journalist took pride in saying that he has finished the
first draft of his OWWA feature story.
Alexis, 20, a resident of Sampaloc and an intern of OFW Journalism Consortium
(OFWJC) submitted his first draft via e-mail to his mentor, Leonillo
Santiago, who will in turn, pass it to Dennis Estopace, OFWJC Vice
president. "Ang sarap ng feeling" Romero said. "Para kang nabunutan ng
tinik at nawalan constipation"
The story, which featured the launching of OWWA's Halfway Home for
transients and distressed OFWs, contained more than 1,300 words.
Romero attributes the length of the story to the relevance of the data
collected.
"It was supposed to be a short story but the information gathered are
so relevant…it's hard to discard them" he said. "Thanks to the patient
people and the informative literature available to me"
But despite the accomplishment, Romero said that he is ready to revise
or improve the article. "Yung haba pa lang nun baka isumpa na ako ng
editors ko. But that's journalism..parang kakambal na ng revisions" he
said.
Romero's article is part of his tasks as an intern of OFWJC.
Rea’s entry: Another interview
Rea’s Entry
Another Interview
May 1, 2005
I had the chance to interview a local CAP official in Central Luzon regarding CAP (of course). She is an area manager and she gave me positive statements about CAP although she admitted that CAP is having a problem and that the payment for beneficiaries is really delayed. She gave me some reports and documents but they are all for the positive publicity of CAP. She told me that most of her statements will be quoted from a report somewhere since they are not allowed to speak about CAP. Meaning her identity is off the record.
I don’t know how to write my story so I decided to seek help from the documents and reports given to me and I think that I will have a PR report. I don’t know how to do a good story so I will just have to rely on my slightly used brain to do the work for me. I just hope that I can do something right. I am full of hope coz I don’t have anything than hope.
Another Interview
May 1, 2005
I had the chance to interview a local CAP official in Central Luzon regarding CAP (of course). She is an area manager and she gave me positive statements about CAP although she admitted that CAP is having a problem and that the payment for beneficiaries is really delayed. She gave me some reports and documents but they are all for the positive publicity of CAP. She told me that most of her statements will be quoted from a report somewhere since they are not allowed to speak about CAP. Meaning her identity is off the record.
I don’t know how to write my story so I decided to seek help from the documents and reports given to me and I think that I will have a PR report. I don’t know how to do a good story so I will just have to rely on my slightly used brain to do the work for me. I just hope that I can do something right. I am full of hope coz I don’t have anything than hope.
Rea’s entry: The first encounter
Rea’s Entry
The First Encounter
April 30, 2005
This day serves as a learning experience for me. This is my first day of interview and I have three people lined up.
At around 9 in the morning, I went to our neighbor for an interview regarding CAP. When I got there, their house is still messy and she was washing clothes at their backyard. She’s doing a hand wash so when she opened the door, she still got soap and bubbles all over her arms. When she saw me, she let me in and apologized for the mess. I told her if it was ok to do the interview and she said yes. She asked me if it was all right for me to do the interview while she’s washing clothes so I agreed. She is actually not an OFW but I wanted to know about her experience with CAP. She was really cheerful although she looks a little teary to me. She had worked as a CAP agent for 8 years to get a plan for her eldest son and she completed the payment by working in the company. It was her only chance to get her son ready for college since her way of living is by selling Avon products and Tupperware. She’s really worried about her son’s education. Her son is the valedictorian of their batch when he was in grade school and he is really intelligent for all the medals hanging on their Santo Nino’s neck. He’s a sophomore in a private high school. The school offered scholarship for his secondary education. Now her problem is where to get money for her son’s college education. It is not everyday that you can get a scholarship.
At 2 in the afternoon, I went to get another interview. This time she was a former nurse in Libya. She lives in Abucay Bataan, 20 kilometers away from the capital of the province. It is a two-story house but the façade is still not painted. She let me into the house which was fully furnished. And there are her two kids who are turning college freshmen a year from now. They are not twins but she got them to school at the same time. She is a widow. She is wearing a white collared-blouse tucked in her maong pants. She looks young for her age and she is currently involved in raising pigs. She usually drives her owner-type jeep which is actually air-conditioned. Her name is Precy Sangcal and she paid for the plans before she stopped working abroad. When I start asking questions about CAP, she really looks distressed and she looks serious about the topic. She did not get angry and start shouting and so. She just took it seriously and she was very formal about the whole situation.
I went to my last interview with Mr. Jun Canlas at around 5:30. The stretch of the road that leads out of the city, passing three towns before I got to Mr. Canlas’ house, runs through fields that are a sickly yellowish color with smoke almost everywhere. Dried rice stalks are being burned after they were harvested. When I got to their house, Mr. Canlas was already waiting for me and he let me in. His house is not that big and it is not yet painted and furniture is not the luxurious type. Looking at their house, I could see a middle-class family, living just right. They have a little farm away from home and they would spend their free time there. He was wearing a white Hanes shirt and a maong short with Beachwalk slippers on his feet. When we start conversing about the educational plans for his children, he seems teary and worried. He thought that he was not able to invest his earnings for a good business where they could get a great deal of money for them though he was able to buy three tricycles and a little farm. He was shaking his head while complaining about CAP and all that. In his last statement, he actually stood up and walked away from me. He was just staring out of their window while asking me if his children will be able to get the benefits intended for them in due time. He knows that he would not be able to get a decent job here in our country at the age of 55 so he is really exasperated where to get the money for his kids’ tuition fee in the future.
The First Encounter
April 30, 2005
This day serves as a learning experience for me. This is my first day of interview and I have three people lined up.
At around 9 in the morning, I went to our neighbor for an interview regarding CAP. When I got there, their house is still messy and she was washing clothes at their backyard. She’s doing a hand wash so when she opened the door, she still got soap and bubbles all over her arms. When she saw me, she let me in and apologized for the mess. I told her if it was ok to do the interview and she said yes. She asked me if it was all right for me to do the interview while she’s washing clothes so I agreed. She is actually not an OFW but I wanted to know about her experience with CAP. She was really cheerful although she looks a little teary to me. She had worked as a CAP agent for 8 years to get a plan for her eldest son and she completed the payment by working in the company. It was her only chance to get her son ready for college since her way of living is by selling Avon products and Tupperware. She’s really worried about her son’s education. Her son is the valedictorian of their batch when he was in grade school and he is really intelligent for all the medals hanging on their Santo Nino’s neck. He’s a sophomore in a private high school. The school offered scholarship for his secondary education. Now her problem is where to get money for her son’s college education. It is not everyday that you can get a scholarship.
At 2 in the afternoon, I went to get another interview. This time she was a former nurse in Libya. She lives in Abucay Bataan, 20 kilometers away from the capital of the province. It is a two-story house but the façade is still not painted. She let me into the house which was fully furnished. And there are her two kids who are turning college freshmen a year from now. They are not twins but she got them to school at the same time. She is a widow. She is wearing a white collared-blouse tucked in her maong pants. She looks young for her age and she is currently involved in raising pigs. She usually drives her owner-type jeep which is actually air-conditioned. Her name is Precy Sangcal and she paid for the plans before she stopped working abroad. When I start asking questions about CAP, she really looks distressed and she looks serious about the topic. She did not get angry and start shouting and so. She just took it seriously and she was very formal about the whole situation.
I went to my last interview with Mr. Jun Canlas at around 5:30. The stretch of the road that leads out of the city, passing three towns before I got to Mr. Canlas’ house, runs through fields that are a sickly yellowish color with smoke almost everywhere. Dried rice stalks are being burned after they were harvested. When I got to their house, Mr. Canlas was already waiting for me and he let me in. His house is not that big and it is not yet painted and furniture is not the luxurious type. Looking at their house, I could see a middle-class family, living just right. They have a little farm away from home and they would spend their free time there. He was wearing a white Hanes shirt and a maong short with Beachwalk slippers on his feet. When we start conversing about the educational plans for his children, he seems teary and worried. He thought that he was not able to invest his earnings for a good business where they could get a great deal of money for them though he was able to buy three tricycles and a little farm. He was shaking his head while complaining about CAP and all that. In his last statement, he actually stood up and walked away from me. He was just staring out of their window while asking me if his children will be able to get the benefits intended for them in due time. He knows that he would not be able to get a decent job here in our country at the age of 55 so he is really exasperated where to get the money for his kids’ tuition fee in the future.
Rea’s entry: The very first day
Rea’s Entry
The Very First Day
April 28, 2005
I checked my email first thing in the morning. I don’t usually do that but I just did so this invitation from Sir Dennis just caught my attention and without wasting time, I packed my bags and rode into the first bus going to Manila. The time of the DOLE’s press conference was 11:30 in the morning. I left Bataan at 8 am so I don’t really expect to get there on time. I tried to pull myself together to get there. I did not have the chance to go to our apartment. I went straight to Intramuros. I did not know the exact place DOLE is located so I have to ride a pedicab for the first time. I did not enjoy that first experience since I am very much worried about getting late. I thought that all the interns are going to be there and as I run to the 4th floor BWC Training Room, I was not able to see any of them so I waited outside the room panicking. People are busy in the other room preparing food while I stood outside the BWC room. I waited for quite a while and then I decided to approach a lady and ask if Mr. Billy Cabuag has arrived. Thank God he and Karlo were there. All the time I was looking at the other corner of the room hoping to find any of them but I did not see them coz they were at the other side where I was not able to see. The lady was kind and she let me in. I sat at the back of Sir Billy and Karlo’s seats. Around 10 minutes after I sat down, the briefing started. I tried writing notes and recording the event but I think they’re going too fast for my slightly used brain. Press people started asking questions after the brief introduction of the panel and the briefing is more likely concern about increasing wage and the jobs fair (celebration of labor day). After the Q and A portion, the people started pushing their way to get an ambush interview with the panel but of course sir Billy was too quick for them. He got his way to the Undersecretary first and I actually do not have any idea what he did there (I mean what sort of questions he asked). At 12:30 the conference ended and I had to go to Makati for the CAP’s press conference. My cousin and I went to Makati. We rode a bus but unfortunately, I fell asleep and my cousin does not know where Legaspi Village is. It was so traffic and we just missed the place. When I woke up, we’re far away from the place and I do not know how to get there via another route. In a nutshell, I missed the press conference. I went back to the office and talk to the bosses. Then I was assigned to do a report about pre-need sector since I still do not have a story plan for a news feature. I just hope that I can do something right this time.
The Very First Day
April 28, 2005
I checked my email first thing in the morning. I don’t usually do that but I just did so this invitation from Sir Dennis just caught my attention and without wasting time, I packed my bags and rode into the first bus going to Manila. The time of the DOLE’s press conference was 11:30 in the morning. I left Bataan at 8 am so I don’t really expect to get there on time. I tried to pull myself together to get there. I did not have the chance to go to our apartment. I went straight to Intramuros. I did not know the exact place DOLE is located so I have to ride a pedicab for the first time. I did not enjoy that first experience since I am very much worried about getting late. I thought that all the interns are going to be there and as I run to the 4th floor BWC Training Room, I was not able to see any of them so I waited outside the room panicking. People are busy in the other room preparing food while I stood outside the BWC room. I waited for quite a while and then I decided to approach a lady and ask if Mr. Billy Cabuag has arrived. Thank God he and Karlo were there. All the time I was looking at the other corner of the room hoping to find any of them but I did not see them coz they were at the other side where I was not able to see. The lady was kind and she let me in. I sat at the back of Sir Billy and Karlo’s seats. Around 10 minutes after I sat down, the briefing started. I tried writing notes and recording the event but I think they’re going too fast for my slightly used brain. Press people started asking questions after the brief introduction of the panel and the briefing is more likely concern about increasing wage and the jobs fair (celebration of labor day). After the Q and A portion, the people started pushing their way to get an ambush interview with the panel but of course sir Billy was too quick for them. He got his way to the Undersecretary first and I actually do not have any idea what he did there (I mean what sort of questions he asked). At 12:30 the conference ended and I had to go to Makati for the CAP’s press conference. My cousin and I went to Makati. We rode a bus but unfortunately, I fell asleep and my cousin does not know where Legaspi Village is. It was so traffic and we just missed the place. When I woke up, we’re far away from the place and I do not know how to get there via another route. In a nutshell, I missed the press conference. I went back to the office and talk to the bosses. Then I was assigned to do a report about pre-need sector since I still do not have a story plan for a news feature. I just hope that I can do something right this time.
Rea’s entry: Story Plan
Rea’s Entry
Story Plan
April 24, 2005
Here is the catch… got nothing in my head right now. Been taking drugs lately so I don’t think that my brain is functioning really well as if it had functioned well before. Got a slightly used brain so I need to exercise it a little bit to see if it is not rusty. The only thing I have in mind is the Omanization Policy so I started digging up for sources and stuff and got what I needed. It is just that I can’t give justice to a good story. I just hope that my father would not get disappointed in me.
My so-called first week of work (in bed) is the last week of my father’s vacation here in our poor country so visitors would usually pop up anytime of the day. My father and his colleagues at work had a little get-together at home and while having their happy conversation (they were all laughing while drinking and eating), I had the chance to sneak up on them and hear they stories. My father does not talk about work at home. He will rather hear about our stories rather than us hearing his story about the other side of the world. I had to collect my own memories to get into their world by looking at some old pictures and videos and by hearing his tape records. I heard him talk about the Omanization policy and that most of his colleagues have their contracts terminated last year or the years before. I had the chance to converse with them and their children. Leaving Oman is a hard thing for them. They got really great benefits and people have been kind to them but policy is a policy so they have to step down from their positions and let the natives do their work. Hearing them talk about their lives is like reading a novel or watching a drama series. Their stories have color and life which is very interesting just like ours. I really want to hear more so I had the idea of writing about it for them to squeal and let their emotions burst.
Story Plan
April 24, 2005
Here is the catch… got nothing in my head right now. Been taking drugs lately so I don’t think that my brain is functioning really well as if it had functioned well before. Got a slightly used brain so I need to exercise it a little bit to see if it is not rusty. The only thing I have in mind is the Omanization Policy so I started digging up for sources and stuff and got what I needed. It is just that I can’t give justice to a good story. I just hope that my father would not get disappointed in me.
My so-called first week of work (in bed) is the last week of my father’s vacation here in our poor country so visitors would usually pop up anytime of the day. My father and his colleagues at work had a little get-together at home and while having their happy conversation (they were all laughing while drinking and eating), I had the chance to sneak up on them and hear they stories. My father does not talk about work at home. He will rather hear about our stories rather than us hearing his story about the other side of the world. I had to collect my own memories to get into their world by looking at some old pictures and videos and by hearing his tape records. I heard him talk about the Omanization policy and that most of his colleagues have their contracts terminated last year or the years before. I had the chance to converse with them and their children. Leaving Oman is a hard thing for them. They got really great benefits and people have been kind to them but policy is a policy so they have to step down from their positions and let the natives do their work. Hearing them talk about their lives is like reading a novel or watching a drama series. Their stories have color and life which is very interesting just like ours. I really want to hear more so I had the idea of writing about it for them to squeal and let their emotions burst.
Rea’s Entry: First Week
Rea’s Entry
First Week
April 18 – 22, 2005
So much for my so-called first week.
While the other interns are doing their jobs and giving everything they have to impress their mentors, there I was trying to pass another lousy day by sleeping, eating and resting. Lucky for me to get sick and to have an excuse for being lazy. Please do not think that I love the idea of being sick and lazy coz I did not. I was not able to go out with the family since I was sick and trying to gain the strength I will be needing to face my mentor and the world of making news. To be honest, I was really scared. Don’t know why.
I am not so good in talking about what happened or to let anybody into my thoughts, this is one thing why I don’t have a diary or a journal. I don’t want to share much about my experiences or moments in my life since sharing them will only take them away from me. I would love to cherish them by thinking about it once in a while (thinking that I am the only one who had that kind of feeling or who have been into that situation). Do I look stupid or selfish? Hope not.
Being sick for a week or so is a natural thing for me. It usually happens once a month or so. I don’t really get it why my family is so bothered about it and yet we usually experience that every so often. This is the end of my first writing experience for a diary.
First Week
April 18 – 22, 2005
So much for my so-called first week.
While the other interns are doing their jobs and giving everything they have to impress their mentors, there I was trying to pass another lousy day by sleeping, eating and resting. Lucky for me to get sick and to have an excuse for being lazy. Please do not think that I love the idea of being sick and lazy coz I did not. I was not able to go out with the family since I was sick and trying to gain the strength I will be needing to face my mentor and the world of making news. To be honest, I was really scared. Don’t know why.
I am not so good in talking about what happened or to let anybody into my thoughts, this is one thing why I don’t have a diary or a journal. I don’t want to share much about my experiences or moments in my life since sharing them will only take them away from me. I would love to cherish them by thinking about it once in a while (thinking that I am the only one who had that kind of feeling or who have been into that situation). Do I look stupid or selfish? Hope not.
Being sick for a week or so is a natural thing for me. It usually happens once a month or so. I don’t really get it why my family is so bothered about it and yet we usually experience that every so often. This is the end of my first writing experience for a diary.
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