Whale Shark Stranding in Maribulan, Alabel, Sarangani Province

A whale shark stranding was reported by the Provincial Governor’s Office in the shores ofSACI Wharf, Maribulan, Alabel, SaranganiProvince last March 5, 2010 at around 2:30 p.m. The staff of the Environmental Conservation and Protection Center (ECPC), together with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), went to respond to the stranding and confirm the identity of the organism.

The 4.75-m long, juvenile butanding, as what whale sharks are locally known, was unintentionally caught and dragged ashore in a 300-m net, which was laid perpendicular to the shore at a depth of approximately 6 feet. Close inspection of the animal revealed a number of scratches in some parts of its body, especially on the dorsal portion. It was also noted that there were at least three scars found in dorsal fin and a triangular cut was observed at tip of its tail. Since the butanding was still alive and can function normally, the team decided to tow it (with the help of some locals) to deeper water for release to the open sea. Moreover, it was also noted that there were at least three documented whale shark strandings/sightings in the area within the past four years. Sightings/stranding in the area may have been caused by its feeding behavior – they are often found in areas of where food is abundant. A previous study during a sighting revealed that the water in the area have high plankton content, especially that of krill (a shrimp-like crustacean), which is one of the preferred diet of a butanding. The ECPC team shall schedule yet a monitoring regime in order to pinpoint the main (and other) reasons for the stranding/sighting.

Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) were among the largest animal in the planet and is considered as the largest fish in the world, growing up to 20 meters and weigh of up to 34, 000 kilograms. They are characterized by a massive and long body, with white or yellow round spots (which are now used for identification and monitoring), and their skin is considered as the thickest among all animals. Although a butanding has a wide and big mouth, it only feeds by filtering planktons through a fine mesh in their gill-rakers. These gentle giants pose no harm to human; however, whale sharks are now threatened and are classified by the World Conservation’s Union (IUCN) as ‘vulnerable to extinction’^[1].

_________________

¹ Tim Winton. ECOCEAN Brochure. www.whaleshark.org

Philippines: A heavenly and hellish cradle of biodiversity?

A paradise of beauty and splendour, unique and unmatched, a haven of life’s variety, and a cradle of unique existence, the Philippines takes pride for its bounty: the rich diversity of life it has been nurturing since ancient times.

However, in the midst of the unparalleled beauty and richness of Philippine biodiversity, like any other country and/or locality, the loss of biodiversity is evident and is in great extent. This jewel – the Filipinos’ heritage of wealthy natural resource – is under threat, in deep crisis. Like the world’s economy (which is obviously largely based on US’ economy), the Philippines’ ‘natural stocks’ are dwindling down, down, down… And like the world’s economy, it badly needs our attention, our efforts, and our help.

Now why do I ramble about all these rather abstracted and near-shit craps I call biodiversity crisis? There’s just one simple logical reason behind all these: we are all connected.

Let me give you a clear view on our connectivity. Picture the bees: minute organisms equipped with wings for flying, buzzing here and there, hopping from one flower in the other, facilitating pollination – a very simple ecological process but are of great importance since it ensures the proliferation of much of the land vegetation. Now when these bees become extinct (i.e. not a single organism buzzes), the plants that are dependent on them will eventually become extinct having lost one of the foremost driver for their life and reproduction; subsequently, lifeforms dependent on plants will become extinct until all life on Earth will be virtually lost including us, humans.

As you can see, the magnitude of negative effects due to the loss of even the bees can be very great, drastic, and, well, ominous. Sadly, this scenario is not far from happening in the Philippine setting. Yes, we are most likely to experience this ‘plague’. Hence, we should really do something about it. NOW!

Philippine Biodiversity

The archipelagic nature of the Philippines, the long isolation of its 7, 100 plus islands, the complex geological history and the local and regional climate patterns have greatly contributed to the countries’ high level of biodiversity and endemism.

It is with this fact that the Philippines is considered as one of the 17 megadiversity countries. It has several centres of diversity and endemism such as Sibuyan Island, whose number of endemic species is unmatched by any other country in Europe. In fact, Philippine biological diversity was described by Dr. Heaney and Dr. Regalado as ‘Galapagos times ten’.

The Philippine flora and fauna is very exceptional, having up to 13, 000 and 1,130 described species, respectively; more than half of those floral and faunal species are endemic in the Philippines and is thus found nowhere else on earth.

Our marine water is the center of center of marine biodiversity. It houses 468 (and counting) of the 800 described corals species, more 2,000 and 40 species of mangroves, respectively, and 13 species of the 23 seagrass species found around the world.

Amidst all these, the Philippines’ environment and natural resources have been degrading in an alarming rate since the 20^th century. Ninety seven (97%) of the original forest was already lost although many wildlife species (both flora and fauna) are still being discovered recently, mangrove and seagrass beds reduced to only 24% of their original cover. Meanwhile, only 5% of the coral reef community is in excellent condition.

The biodiversity crisis the country is experiencing now is brought about by many factors: by extractive industries (i.e. logging and mining), conversion of rainforests into agricultural lands and mangrove forests are converted into aquaculture ponds. Population growth and the need to pace up with economic development have further put pressure on our environment, where more often than not, human and the economy are being chosen over the protection and conservation of biological diversity and the environment in general.

The Philippines is one of the two countries (the other one is Madagascar) to be both a megadiversity country and a biodiversity hotspot. The rate of biodiversity loss in the country is so alarming that certain two reports have been made that the damage in Philippine biodiversity is irreparable, and it is also feared that local unidentified and endemic species are being lost undocumented.

Importance of biodiversity

Our environment, through biological diversity, has long been offering man with low-cost but effective goods and services that cannot be contested nor substituted by any machine we can invent. For centuries, it has been a constantly providing us food, wood and fiber, fuel, medicine, fresh water; have regulated our climate, floods, diseases, and purified our air and waters; and lastly, with its beauty, it has provided inspiration and pleasure since the time of our forefathers.

Thus, I believe I need not iterate the importance of concerted efforts for ecological sustainability, for environmental conservation and protection. I believe I need not tally anymore what we can do for the said cause; I just know we all have had more than enough of it. I trust every one’s better judgment, of a well-informed choice and action.

This is a CHALLENGE. I am challenging all the people on Earth. I am challenging YOU.

tHe tHiNkiNg uRcHiN suPpoRts Earth Hour 2009

On Saturday, March 28, 2009, at 8:30 in the evening (local time), everyone is encouraged to participate on the first international election between the Earth and global warming, through the Earth Hour.

Let's all grab this opportunity to take part in this international movement and cast our vote for the Earth by switching our lights off for an entire hour (that's only sixty minutes or three thousand six hundred seconds). Leaving your lights on means a vote for global warming. The goal for this year is to gather one (1) billion votes for the Earth, which will be presented to the world leaders in the upcoming Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. The official goverment policies to take action agaisnt global warming and the subsequent climate change that will be determined from this meeting will replace the Kyoto Protocol.

Earth Hour was initiated last 2007 in Sydney, and was participated by 2.2 million homes and businesses. A year later, in 2008, it had grown up into a global sustainability movement with up to 50 million people switching their lights off.

This year, Earth Hour 2009 is being taken to a new level, where every individuals, encompassing all races, from different countries, are encouraged to VOTE EARTH. Every one is being called up to take a stand and control over the future of our planet.

Let's all vote because every vote counts.

Again, VOTE EARTH by simply switching your lights off for one hour on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at 8:30 PM local time, taking part in the global movement -- the Earth Hour.

Make a single flick at that switch, that's just it!

tagged: current moment

weeeee! so here's my first post with respect to the tagging mania that seems to plague the blogosphere. reckon this is one way to build links. this one's from a friend, braggies.

So the basic premise is this: all answers should “at the current moment.”


1. Where is your cellphone --- in my pocket, right side.
2. Your hair --- black, brushed down on my forehead..
3. Your father --- probably on duty, i'm not used to know about his itinerary.. *smirks*
4. Your favorite thing --- ballpen.. just can't leave without it.
5. Your dream last night --- none, can't remember what my last dream was
6. Your favorite drink --- milk.. thick, creamy, milk!
7. Your dream goal --- to become an internationally renowned research scientist and to own a hacienda
8. The room you are in --- office, doin overtime. sharks, this is la perruque!
9. Your fear --- closed spaces, to die in vain, earth's eventual death (?)
10. Where do you want to be in 6 years --- in a hardcore research institution..
11. Muffins --- anyhting will do..
12. One of your wish list items --- to be able to attend graduate school at UP MSI or abroad (lols)
13. Where you grew up --- gensan. been here all my life..
14. The last thing you did --- turned off my pc.
15. What are you wearing --- shirt i bought during training at Silliman University Marine Lab
16. Your TV --- just a plain Sony CRT TV.
17. Your pet --- don't have one..
18. Your computer --- to wit.
19. Your life --- just the way i want it..
20. Your mood --- depends.
21. Missing someone --- hardly...
22. Your car --- i commute.
23. Favorite store --- nothing in particular, perhaps dunkin donuts. i just love to slack there..
24. Your summer --- will be diving for sure, or do things of that sort.. either here in Sarangani Bay, or hopefully at Lanao del Sur (pag natuloy ako sa raket ko dun.. bwahehehehe)
25. Your favorite color --- blue, black, white
26. When was the last time you laughed --- earlier today, when our lab analyst said she's been tired and stressed about her being beautiful after i praised her about her beautiful curly hair.
27. When was the last time you cried --- can hardly remember...but i'm a cry baby, that's for sure..
28. Last person who emailed you --- Ate Bhebz, a friend who's a graduate student at UP MSI, sent me a new research article.
29. Your favorite food --- spaghetti, carbonara, lasagna, pizza.. tomato and cheese based dishes.. i eat anything though.. *winks*
30. A place you would rather be right now --- atop a cliff, by the beach.. enjoying the moonlight, twinkling with the stars, feeling the breeze sweep through my body.. ahhhhh.. solitary bliss!

guess this ends here. i really don't know who to tag. i'm sorry enhenyero.. *laughs*

on blogging and environmental advocacy..

so my blog's pretty technical now.. dealing with all the things about my field, on environmental conservation and protection, focusing on the marine environment.

hell, yes, to a tolerable extent (hopefully), it's pretty boring.

i just can't help it. my personal thoughts are more often than not full of anxiety, of problems, of stressors, and of all the craps a self-confessed non-conformist, radical, and rebellious cynic can ever think of. i am helping myself in this aspect though. focusing on happy thoughts, making myself a blessing to every life i have touched, i am, and will be touching.

and so instead of writing about the rather appalling and vexatious thoughts i have, i promised myself to write about what I know about my field of work, and be an advocate of change, of sustainable development, of saving the last frontier -- the ocean.

so i am saying sorry for everyone who might want to learn more about me through my posts -- through what i write. i may fail you in this aspect, but surely, as you read through, you may be able to see glimpses of my true self (identity crisis on the loose? maybe, maybe not). i may be evasive on this part but will promise to write about my thoughts and views on life and living once in a while..

so for now, do bear with me. I'm in the mood of being self-righteous these days. so i might as well write about saving, protecting, and conserving our environment while i still have the fire..

so for every one of you who gets the chance to read (let's play pretend here that you all are hell lot), do pass the learning and wisdom (that, i can't promise i can impart but will really try. will really, really try) forward and let's hold hands, brace ourselves, and be with me as i go along with this advocacy.

on Coral Taxonomy

Way back college days, I was more inclined and interested in learning about marine plants, specifically seagrass and marine macroalgae.. more with marine macroalgae, i believe. Then, I was so fascinated with seagrass and macroalgal biology and ecology -- their chemical defense mechanisms, significance to the marine environment, and commercial importance to human. I was so into marine plants that my undergraduate thesis was focused on the review of the chemical ecology of three seagrass species that are found here in Sarangani (eleven seagrass species are found to be present in the Bay), namely, Thalassodendron ciliatum, Syringodium isoetifolium, and Thalassia hemprichii.

It was when I started to work for the Center that my field of specialization was altered. To an extent that I could hardly believe. Here, I was intoduced to the rather complex and intricate world of corals, more specifically, coral taxonomy. In fact, it was along this field of specialization that I've found one of my dearest friend: Ate Bhebz, who's also a coral specialist. She was the one who informed me that the GEF Coral Taxonomy Project, which is based at UP Marine Science Institute's Bolinao Marine Lab (BML) have been conducting coral taxonomy training. It was last year, around October, i suppose. Sadly though, I wasn't included to the approved list of participants because along the screening process, it was learned that I've also applied for the Sea Cucumber Ranching Project Research Assistantship. Conflict of interest. It was a complete heartbreaker, i really cried hard. Really hard. But then again, I have to move on. Though I was left wounded, I gathered myself up and started to do my own research for a more precise identification of corals. I've actually done this months before the said training. But the denial for my attendance on the said training gave more fuel to drive. However, my identification of corals is limited only to genus level. Can't help it. I've only meager resources. Assuredly, I won't stop studying and learning.

Porites sp.

Foliaceous Pachyseris sp.

Fire coral, Millepora sp.

Turbinaria sp. with extended polyps.

Mycedium sp.

Pectinia sp.

Foliaceous Pectinia sp. (yellow) and tabulate Acropora sp.

Euphyllia sp. with polyps retracted and extended.

Submassive Acropora sp. (although I've heard it's re-classified into Isopora sp.)

Coral Reefs: We need a chance!

Coral reef at Kamanga, Maasim, Sarangani Province.

I really feel sorry for our coral reefs. Like any other coastal ecosystem, they are in the brink of irrepressible and inevitable peril.

A gorgonian.

For years, coral reefs have been providing unequivocal and tangible services towards the environment, and most especially to man (i.e. food security through fisheries production, tourism like diving, coastal defense from storms, reduction of soil erosion)[1].

A couple of fish taking time to be photographed.

However, for the past years, this resource is in foreboding danger, being bombarded with global problems (ocean acidification due to increase in carbon dioxide; coral bleaching and rise in sea-levelas caused by global warming; and low fisheries yield as caused by overfishing) and local threats (crown-of-thorns starfish infestation/outbreaks; algal blooms; increase in number and prevalence of diseases such as white-band disease; cyclone damage, etc.) [1].

Crown-of-thorns starfish (the one with thorny projections found over the coral) devouring a coral (Pectinia sp.?)

Until recently, their significance to man’s lives were overlooked, misled by the notion that its bounty will never be depleted, that this is an infinite resource.

Shampoo sachet in the midst of a foliaceous coral (Echinopora sp.).

Diapers: babies must have been living underwater. Mermaids perhaps?

Bits and pieces of cellophanes all over a sponge.

A coral reef is a finite and fragile resource. Like everything around us, it should be utilized sparingly, with an utmost sense of decency to leave something more from that of those that were left for us by our forefathers; such that the next generation will be able to have a better feel of the services that this ecosystem provides us.. for that, I know they will really appreciate us and perhaps, with a better perspective, they may be able to pass it on to the next generation to the next as our reefs gets better to best. The only thing they ask from us is:

Please, give us a chance.

Literature cited: [1] Mumby, P. J., and R. S. Steneck. 2008. Coral reef management and conservation in light of rapidly evolving ecological paradigms.

Sunfish (Mola mola) stranding at Alabel, Sarangani Province

Last February 6, 2009, the staff of ECPC’s Ecosystem Research Division (from which I am a part of) was prompted to act upon the report of a stranded sunfish, Mola mola (Linnaeus 1758) in the shore of Purok Belong-Belong, Maribulan, Alabel, Sarangani Province. We went as fast as we could, hoping to see the largest bony fish in the world alive. But it was long dead when we arrived.

Stranded sunfish "basking" in the sun.

Coastal residents in the area reported that the huge fish, weighing approximately 250+ kg (it took eight big men to haul it to our vehicle), has been there since around 10:00 p.m. the other night.

Curious children looks over the dead sunfish.

The fish measured 1.97m from the tip of the snout to the tip of the clavus (formed by extensions of the dorsal and anal fin rays), and .95m from the tip of the dorsal fin to the tip of the anal fin. The fish was taken to the center for taxidermy. During taxidermy, a ruptured fist-size cyst was found in the right side of the body of the fish, and a 12-cm remora (a parasitic fish) was also removed along its esophagus (the specimen was also preserved and is on display at the ECPC museum). The entire staff was also amazed after learning that the “bones” of the largest bony fish is cartilaginous, which prompted everyone to conduct further research.

Sunfishes belong to Family Molidae and can be found in temperate waters worldwide. In Sarangani Province, sunfishes were documented to be swimming in and around the Sarangani Bay area. In fact, the center has three (3) preserved specimens of this fish, including the one reported herein. They feed on zooplankton primarily jellyfish, salps, and ctenophores. They are relatively slow swimmers (thus said to be the largest zooplankton) and weighs up to over 900 kg, reaching the height of 11 feet when matured.

Despite their humungous size, sunfishes are gentle and do not pose any threat to human and have a great part in maintaining the balance and diversity in the marine environment.


Source: Australian Museum Fish Site (http://www.austmus.gov.au)
MarineBio (http://marinebio.org/Oceans/StructuresAdaptations.asp)

valentines day

It is Valentines Day… the time when people are reminded and get to realize that they’ve got loved ones to heed and take care of other than those things that constantly bombard them as they go along with their lives each day… the time when almost every single (unmarried ones, that is) person one you know fuss about getting to have a date, and worse, get laid tonight… the time of the year when the heart is of utmost importance – the star, the brightest of them all, the most brilliant and magnificent.

It’s Valentines Day and it’s also the 40th day of the death of my Grandpapa so I am melancholic as of the moment. However, the great thing is that we now know that he’s well taken care of up there. And we’ll be having a “family reunion” at our grandparents’ house tonight.

It’s Valentines Day and I almost got myself into an accident when the wheel of the motorcycle I’m riding on got flat while the driver seems to have the peak of his fastest ride towards wherever hell he is going to. Thank goodness, he had managed to slow us down into the safety of the side tracks.

It’s Valentines Day and I’m here in the office, doing overtime, and will later one become spent as everyone here will be.

It’s Valentines Day and I wish everyone will enjoy this day and that everyone will come to realize that one day is not enough to compensate 360+ days of slackness towards their loved ones…it's high time you work into bringing your loved ones in your life a lot closer from now on...

It’s Valentines Day, best regards!

messed up: over time

Was supposed to do my analysis for my coral data today but during startup, my computer rants: "virtual memory low"!

the heck. so now i am using my officemate's pc because my dumb (damned) computer can't connect to the internet (perhaps Gods way of saying: "Concentrate. Work, work, work!")

So i am currently uninstalling some installed craps in my pc, reckon it will help. Or so i believe it would.

Left with nothing else to do save burden or, worse, kill myself by waiting for the craps to be trashed out of the crappy pc, I am currently devouring the net for anything to do.

So i am now blogging -- guess this blog deserves to be attended this time after being sort of abandoned to weeks. But my conscience keeps babbling: "Hey Fred, the government is paying you for more by 'working' overtime.You are supposed to WORK!" Hell, yes, i am tormenting myself. Can't help it. How it pains to be conscientious!

Nevertheless, been working my ass off this week, been a good employee lately. I've never been late, save 8 minutes, for this week. A record high after being formally employed here in the Center for (uh, i'm counting... one, two, three, fo..) eight months!

Now I am bound to change. I am supposed to. Can't keep on complaining about all the problems and issues that troubles the government, more so with my co-workers, without me changing myself first. So I am helping myself.. Got to change a lot of things, especially in my outlook in life, working, and living.. Got to have a better perspective, see life with less hostility, meekly, gracefully.

Listening to Rihanna's Disturbia.. singing along my anathema with all airs i can muster: dum, dum, de, dum, dum, de, dum, dum... dum, dum, de, dum, dum, de, dum, dum...

Perhaps, Love

Love does not and cannot conform with the norms set by man, nor it can be hindered by unworthy and worldy obstacles; rather, it shines when suppressed -- fighting back with burning strength and fervour, it transgresses through time and space -- defying boundaries, ultimately, it never fails to forge into its true beautiful and glorious form such that when it touches the heart of anyone, he/she cannot deny the pleasure nor dispel the magic and power it beholds...

yadda, yadda, yadda

So I was being so grumpy today..I can even see lines in my face as I watch my reflection right in front of me, as fed by the monitor.

I actually have nothing in mind to write this moment, i just want to ease out every tension that builds up in my whole body.. perhaps a product of scant sleep and a terribly tiresome day brought about by river sampling at Glan River, Sarangani Province.. I am so tired I could hardly get myself into talking to other people, much more give anyone around me a smile, even just for charity's sake.

With nothing really in mind but desultory thoughts, perhaps I might disclose few issues and concerns I have been pondering since, uh, a few months from now..

• I've always wanted to be part of the academe. I actually don't know who've really inspired me to be one but I really have a strong inclination on becoming a teacher. Both from my father and mother side, I've got aunts who've got a teaching profession. One was an elementary teacher, and the other was previously an Associate Professor of Mathematics at the Mindanao State University - Gen. Santos City campus (where I also took my undergraduate degree) and now a math teacher at Nevada, USA. Although complaints for having a relatively low salary (as compared to other profession) was very evident and eminent among those in the teaching profession, this does not hinder me nor discourage me from becoming one (the soonest possible, the better). Teaching is such a noble profession I could not restrain myself from falling into its pit.

• I wasn't entirely happy with the meager compensation I am receiving as of now. Although many would want to be in my place (since only a few graduates of my field of specialization will have the chance to work along it) right now (though they do not necessarily want to covet my job), I reckon they would be thinking twice should they learn that this job offers no benefits (e.g. no hazard pay) and other perks deemed necessary for this course of work. I even came to a point that I felt I am being cheated. But then again, I also believe that this job gives me on of the best, if not the best training ground for greater future employment and career.

• As a product, not only once did I planned (and have actually acted) to apply for a job with greater compensation and perks. Just recently, I've applied as a Research Assistant for the Sea Cucumber Ranching Project at Bolinao Marine Laboratory and was on the brink of being hired had I not hesistated. Perhaps the will of God.

• I am so friggin tired. My body's aching and my health's deteriorating. For both of that, I am quite sure. Although I am thankful that our field works for the Biozonification Project (I am the team leader for the coral reef component and was tasked to assess the corals of the coastal barangays of Sarangani Bay ) and the sampling for the the five major rivers that flush in the Sarangani Bay was definitely over for this year, the long weeks of working under the scorching heat of the incessantly burning sun have left me so tired I want to rest and sleep for weeks on end.

Reckon that would be all for now..

sing-along..

Hardcore na trip ang ginawa namin kagabi..

From left to right: Ate Giff, Kuya Apolo, Ako, at si Kuya Jopy

Di alintana ang pagod dahil sa buong araw ng paglalakad at pagbiyahe para mag-sampling ng tubig ng sapa, pagsukat ng lalim at lapad nito't pati na rin ang bilis ng kuryente ng tubig (para sa water quality monitoring ng five major rivers ng Sarangani bay), hala! Sige parin ang lakwatsa!

Kasama ang ilang kaibigan - apat lang kami: ako, si Kuya Jopy (Marine Biologist ng Provincial Envronment and Natural Resources Office), si Kuya Apolo (Local Legislative Staff ng Sangguniang Kabataan), at si Ate Giff (Senior Environmental Management Specialist ng Environmental Conservation and Protection Center kung saan nagtatrabaho din ako bilang isang Marine Biologist/Researcher), nirentahan namin ang isang kwarto sa MusicBox para lang mag-videoke hanggang alas dose ng umaga..ikalawang beses ko nang nagkalat at nagpasabog ng malagim kong boses dun sa kwartong yun..

Gaya ng mga nakaraang araw at gabing magkasama kaming apat, hardcore ang laughtrip, food trip, usapan, at ligaya!

Sa uulitin! =))

on Twilight...

Watching Twilight at the cinema was something i was anticipating to do.. armed with high expectations and with a little knowledge about the movie much more with the story (well, i do know it's not the another-vampire-movie having fed by the lead actress saying that the vampires here were "vegetarians"), i was doomed to be disappointed.

Hardcore action was what I've expected to see although being a vegetarian vampire is sort of off-putting since I'd like to see bloods.. a hell lot of bloods! (lols) Never had I imagined that this movie is a rather cheesy love story. The whole movie is all about the getting-to-know-each-other stage of soon-to-be-lovers where almost, if not all, of the characters talk and talk and talk such that it came to a point that I've found them all irritatingly noisy. (i have to restrain myself from shouting inside the cinema but i didn't get the chance to hold my tongue on retaliating about the scenes) Moreover, I was also appalled by the lengthy scenes where both of the major characters just look at each other..almost to a point where they would devour each other since they were so close to each other that it will only take a second for any one of them to do so.

To sum it up, I really felt I'm cheated with the price I have to pay for the ticket.

But then again, there are some quotable lines that made me shiver but in a nice way:

"I don't have the strength to stay away from you.."
"You are my life now.."

Cheesy, huh?

the 2nd MBS experience...

in order to attend to this event, i'd really have to talk it over my boss to give me a rest day, just so i could come and join this yet another spectacular event i was so ecstatic to be in. then, we were doing our fieldworks for the continuation of the Biozonification Project (I was assigned as the team leader of the marine biologists who are to assess the status of the reefs.. and that, perhaps, is the greatest mistake ever done! *laughs*).

and because i was at the field, i didn't have the luxury of having to surf the net (if you could only feel the itch of my fingers), subsequently depriving me the chance of having to confirm my participation.. and so, with a little help from Mark, I was able to accomplish the task (kudos to Mark.. weeeee!).

now, i'm not going to spoil things up by the litany of how i got to attend the 2nd MBS. I'm here to talk about what i've experienced through all of it.. here goes:

I was late. I arrived at the venue at past ten in the morning. there were few talks but Mark assured me i wasn't missing great talks yet. Anyhoo, i rushed to the venue still.

I was anti-social (very anti-social, hardcore!). I was really disappointed of myself for being such during the event. However, i can't balme myself for not having mustered enough courage and confidence to socialize well.. i guess i hardly have the nerve to do such.. but then again, i was contented in conversing with Mark and Mikko who was a co-intern at the ECPC during the summer of 2007 (he's now a grown-up, not a yagit anymore..). there were lots of things to talk to with Mikko (as usual), and we've had lots of laughs.

I've met other Mindanaoan bloggers. So you see, although i was very anti-social then, both mikko and mark have also introduced me to some of the bloggers who also joined the summit. I got to see Hiyas and Elton and some of their friends whose names I could hardly remember but faces that i can't forget (because those are the only faces i got to see closer and longer from my area); Maris, Mikko's sister whom I never really expected to be THAT beautiful and, well, dropdead gorgeous; the girl who's Maris' friend way back her elementary years; and some of the blogger-organizer..

I've learned some tips and info about blogging. Although I've been blogging for years now (not as frequent as I am today -- that needs further assessment still), I'm still naive of a great many things about blogging and the blogosphere (or perhaps i am just indifferent to learn more about it. i just love to write, that's it!). And so I learned that, indeed, blogs/blogging is a very powerful tool. It's a very potent media where a plethora of things can be done and can have different purpose, as in for advertising, advocacy, etc. But i believe, what is really important is that it can be a catalyst of (positive) change (credits for Mark). But then again, action STILL speaks louder that blogs. (laughs)

erratic

My mind is racing and my heart's pounding.
Restless as restless as I can be.
I am in the brink of crossing borders, I am in the tip of a never-ending spire.
I am walking in the dark, trying to feel every corner, trying to have a grasp of the world I am currently traversing.
Feeling that piercing pang of angst linger over my sore soul.
Licking every droplet of sour mien with utmost reluctance, living it with divine annoyance.
I am to move away from my comfort zone, forging into a new horizon.

pitong pisong bayani

Gaya parin ng maraming gabing galing ako sa trabaho, wala na naman ako sa bahay at kumakain kung saan (dun kami sa paborito naming pinagpapabentahan ng garlic chicken, kain todamax). Matapos kong tsibugin peyborit kong binawangang manok at magpakabusog hanggang sa halos di na ako makatayo (wala akong kunsyensya, ang mga kapamilya ko halos wala nang kinakain, at malalaman ko pa pagkarating sa bahay na may tinira pa sila para sakin.. whoa! kaka-touch), tinamad na kami't nag-ayos para umuwi. Habang naglalakad papunta sa sakayan ng jeepney eh naisipan kong bumili ng kape sa kalapit na Dunkin Donuts (shet, promotion.. penge talent fee!!). Gaya ng dati, kahit pagod na ako eh di ko pa maatim na matulog dahil marami pa akong pag-aaralan (studious kasi ako, akalain mo yun?!). Pero di gaya ng dati, may special plans pala si Lord para sa akin ngayong gabi. Hindi naman na magiging angel na ako ngayong gabi (although mukha naman talaga akong anghel sa personal. oo, maniwala ka.. kundi..) o maging isa sa mga malokong superhero na ipinangangalandankan ang kanilang colored na briefs gaya ni Superman or magiging singer na nagsisisigaw ng "Good evening Aranetaaaaa!!!" oramismo. Ngayong gabi, plano pala ni Lord na maging tagapagtanggol ako ng naapi't tagapangalaga ng kaayusan ng mundo. Pero pauso ko lang yung huli..

Matapos kong bilhin yung kape ko na sinamahan ko na lang rin ng isang donut para maging value meal at makatipid ng pitong piso (ito ang magiging pamasahe ko ngayong gabi papunta sa terminal ng tricycle na papasok dun sa kung san mang lupalop ako nakatira), eh nagawi na ako dun sa sakayan.. Nakita ko itong isang bata -- mga nasa elementarya, medyo loose ang damit at may malaking bag sa likod -- na nakikipag-usap sa isang tricycle driver. Di nagtagal pag-uusap nila, iniwan sya nung langyang driver kasi di ata nagkasundo sa bayad. Kaya ayun, sa lamig ng gabi eh nag-antay ulit ang bata ng masasakyan. Ako naman, dahil di naman ako mahilig makialam sa mga bagay-bagay sa mundo, eh naghintay rin ng masasakyan.. papara minsan ng tricycle, makikipagtawaran, tapos iiwan ang driver habang nag-iisip, at minsanang iniinom ang mapait na kapeng nabili sa Dunkin Donuts (pangalawang beses ko nang binanggit to, tsk. bayad! bayad!).

Habang nasa kalagitnaan ako ng pagtri-trip ko sa mga mukhang perang driver eh lumapit saken yung bata.
"Lagao ka rin kuya?", tanong nya.
"Oo. Ba't ikaw, san ka?"
"Sa Lagao rin, sa may Capareda Street."
"Ah okay. San banda, papasok ka pa ba o sa kanto ka lang?"
"Sa kanto lang po."
"Sige, sabay na tayo. San ka ba galing?"
"Kukuha sana ako ng uniform, kaso sarado na yung patahian.. Sumali kasi ako sa isang skateboard competition, may libreng uniform."
"Ah okay."

La na kaming imikan nung bata. Makalipas ang ilang minuto eh kinausap nya ako ulti. "Di ako pinasakay nung driver kanina kasi raw eto lang bayad ko." sabay bukas ng palad at ipinakita sa akin ang barya niya. Mentally, binilang ko. Anim na piso. Sa loob-loob ko, lintik na driver, piso nalang kulang, di pa pinasakay?! Amfutek. "Hayaan mo na yun," kako, "ako na bahala sa iyo." (kahit kasi di nya pa sabihin, di naman ako ganun katanga para di makuhang nagpapatulong siya) Bigla ko naalala nun na meron pala akong isang donut, kinuha ko't iniabot sa kanya. Tinanong nya ako kung ano ba daw yun.. kako, donut, sayo nalang.. (busog naman kasi ako't pag dinala ko yun sa bahay eh alam kong pag-aawayan lang yun ng mga kapatid kong mga pataygutom na gaya ko)

Di nagtagal eh nakasakay nga kaming dalawa -- ako at yung bata na pinapapak na ang bigay kong donut.. marami kaming kasabay papunta rin sa Lagao, isa nalang at puno na ang trike.. habang binabaybay namin ang daan eh wala kaming imikan nung bata.. marami kasi akong iniisip (sobrang ogag ng braincells ko, kung kelan ako pagod, saka marami akong naiisip.. gusto ata akong i-torture). Nang malapit na kami sa bababaan niya, iniabot niya sakin ang bayad niya sabay sabing "Kuya, eto na bayad ko oh.." Itinaas ko ang kamay ko sabay sabing "Naku wag na, ako na bayad sayo." "Huh? talaga?" tanong nya. Gusto ko siyang sigawan na ako na manlilibre pero nagpakahinahon ako't nagwikang "Oo. Ako nang mamamasahe para sa iyo. Okay?" Matapos nito'y pinahinto na niya ang driver at bababa na raw siya.. alam kong di siya sanay sa ganito at ako rin eh hindi (kasi naman kahit sanay akong magpaka-hero sa mga uod, lamang dagat, at iba pang hayop eh di ako kelan man nagpaka-hero ng ganito sa isang tao). Nasiyahan lang ako kasi alam kong bukal sa loob niya ang pagpapasalamat sa akin nung pababa na siya. Dalawa o tatlong beses? Di ko na alam kung ilang beses niyang sinambit yun pero ang sarap pakinggan.

Ang gaan ng loob ko matapos ng eksenang to (feeling ko nga eh sobrang nagliliwanag ako't nagkaron ng halo nung oras na yun). Kahit na sanay na ako manlibre ng kung anu-ano at inaabot pa ng ilang daan o libo nagagastos ko sa panlilibre eh di ko pa to naramdaman.. iba pala talaga ang galak na naidudulot ng sincere na pagtulong at pagpapasalamat sa tulong na nagawa mo. Kahit na di kami magkakilala at tanging alam lang namin sa isa't isa eh pareho kaming nakatira sa Lagao area, at alam kong skaterboarder sya't anim na piso lang pera niya pauwi sa bahay nila, at ang alam nya lang lang saken eh isa akong lalaking ubod ng gwapo, matipuno ang katawan, matalino, umiinom ng kapeng sobrang pait, namimigay ng donut at nanlilibre ng pamasahe; alam kong magkatali na buhay namin.. (sharks naman, parang mag-jowa o mag-asawa) Siguro makakalimutan nya ako isang araw (subukan nya lang, papapatay ko sya) pero alam kong paminsan-minsan eh maaalala nya ako at ang kadakilaan ko (alam kong magagawa nya yun, nakita ko kasi kung pano niya ako o ang tricycle lingunin nung nakaalis na kami't siya naman eh naglalakad na papunta sa kung san mang bahay nila) at siya naman eh habang-buhay kong papasalamatan sa pagtuturo at pagpapalasap sa akin ng sarap ng pagtulong at pagpapaalam sa akin na pwede ako maging superhero kahit di nakalabas ang brief ko't sa pamamagitan lang ng pitong piso.

Surely, I'll be in GenSan for the 2nd Mindanao Bloggers Summit

Mark have always been so ecstatic with the event he and other great people are brewing up -- the 2nd Mindanao Bloggers' Summit. He could not resist to invite me every time we get to text each other. Convinced as I am but battling with the need (and want) to attend a training on coral taxonomy to be sponsored by the GEF Coral Reef Targeted Research Project at the Bolinao Marine Laboratory of the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, I said yes but with a certain condition: that my decision will rest on whether on not I'll get accepted for the training.

Now, since I am quite sure that I will not be able to attend the said training, I've already give in to Mark's request and will attend the said summit given the opportunity. Hell yeah, I am convinced and thrilled at the prospect of having to attend the 2nd Mindanao Bloggers' Summit although I am still a newbie in the blogosphere.. Surely, this will be one hell of an experience. One worth the time. One that you'll surely can't afford to miss, especially when you've been living in GenSan since birth like i do (lols!)..

And, before i forget.. Here goes the 2nd MBS' sponsors and summit partner we've got to thank also.

CO-PRESENTERS:

NOKIA (Philippines), Inc.
Mayor Pedro B. Acharon, Jr.
Congresswoman Darlene Antonino-Custodio
ABS-CBN Regional Network Group
Mindanao Bloggers
Bariles Republic

GOLD SPONSORS:

ACLC-Skeptron Ventures, Inc.

SILVER SPONSORS:

Asia United Bank
NoKiAHOST.COM
Family Country Hotel & Convention Center
East Asia Royale Hotel

BRONZE SPONSORS:

Digital Filipino
Pacific Seas Seafood Market
Shalom-Crest Wizard Academy
Prints and You
Sta. Cruz Seafood, Inc.
Dellosa Design Builders, Inc.

on ragged leaves and brittle twigs

So while being bored and walking at the garden around our house, i chanced to see and stumbled upon these rare treasures.. on a small kalamansi tree (i am not quite sure if i should call it a tree since it's only about one foot tall, anyhoo, since I've already qualified it as small, so I'll let it be a tree), I've noticed two brown caterpillars (both have white bands and a small projections around their soft bodies) secured on the the leaf axils of the leafless tree. Seeing their dire situation, having left with no leaves to eat and being exposed to a number of detrimental factors, my mind raced on strategies to save them. I pondered that since i found them in a kalamansi tree (a leafless tree at that), if ever I'd rescue them and put them into safety, i ought to ward them in yet another kalamansi tree (God, I can hardly believe myself to have such logic. *laughs*).

Then, i remembered that we've got this tall kalamansi tree near our gate. Without thinking twice, i lowered myself and with the aid of a small stick that i found in the stack of rotting leaf litters, i slowly picked up the bigger one, careful not to puncture its mushy body. Slowly, i stood up and walked briskly towards my target while keeping watch on the fragile individual on the stick. Once there, I've strategically put the little organism on the apex of a small branch where leaves were lush and where I can always see them every time I check. After which, i rushed to get the smaller caterpillar. Again, I put it at the apex of a branch adjacent to that of the other caterpillar. And so, they're set. Confident that they'll be just fine in their places, I continued to marvel around our garden and set off for another enriching, novel, and heroic adventure. But after a few minutes of walking and stopping over seemingly interesting things, I got tired and thought that I guess God wouldn't mind me resting. Besides, I've already had my share of heroic stunt for the day.

Days passed and I've come to forget about my little caterpillars. Then, earlier this day, a butterfly, sporting vivid yellow green and black wings, flew in front of me. Right then and there, I was reminded of the caterpillars I've saved a few days ago. With a sudden burst of excitement and euphoria, and with a camera in hand, i rushed to see and take a picture of them ( sadly, my cam's battery was about to get depleted, so i rushed to take their pictures and ended up with this ludicrous image [see picture at the left]). Among the raggedly eaten leaves and about to drop its share of excreta to nourish the soil, i saw one of them. On the other branch, however, I was astonished to see how one have grown so fast and so big even for only a couple of days. Smiling, I took a photo (the one you see here) and rushed back home to prepare to go to work. It's already 9:00 in the morning and I am friggin one hour late for work. But who would mind being late? For these two mushy and frail caterpillars, I'm their savior and hero, and for that, I'm one proud papa.

And so I arrived at work at exactly 9:57a.m., very, very late but was really exuberant and filled with good aura nonetheless.. I am so excited to the prospect of having those caterpillars undergo drastic change in morphology through metamorphosis and eventually become a full-pledged butterfly, ready to struck the world in awe and marvel over its flamboyant wings and charm every organism with its subtle and care-free flight.

badly needs help

It is with deep consternation to learn that the earth, ironically, has been housing and nourishing, for hundreds of years, a creature that does more harm than good. It is a creature that threatens not only its own extinction but, worse, the destruction of earth itself. It is even more alarming to learn that it is us.

Man’s activity coupled with his negligence has brought himself (and the earth) into the brink of foreboding and irreversible danger. His selfish deed, especially those that brings comfort to him, overlooks the welfare of other living organisms. Today, it has brought issues that are of global concerns, such as air and water pollution, and even triggering the now apparent climate change, as well as other significant environmental changes. Among these major concerns are the ozone depletion and the supposedly valuable Greenhouse effect.

Those matters were largely an effect of the industrialization of the countries that were equipped for advancement and “development”. However, setting and meeting their goals of “development” have reached the extremes. Man has developed chemicals and compounds that are indeed beneficial to him but brings menace to the environment. He has made the chloro-fluorocarbons (CFCs) where the chlorine (its by-product) attacks and causes the depletion of the ozone (a layer in the atmosphere that reflects harmful ultraviolet light). Consequently, man had also invented vehicles and machines that make use of fuels and other non-renewable energies that emit large amount of gases. These gases “clog” at the atmosphere, escalating the Greenhouse effect or the trapping of absorbed heat from the sun.

Obviously, ozone depletion was one of the adverse consequences of man’s oblivious deeds. With it, he is now held liable of his actions. He is now facing the threats posed by the depleted ozone layer such as the intrusion of harmful ultraviolet light (especially UV-B). As a result, UV light may suppress man’s immune system, increasing his susceptibility to diseases. It may also cause him blindness and make food production suffer.

Moreover, the Greenhouse effect is an issue that should be resolved as well. The Greenhouse effect is a natural process wherein radiant energy enters the earth and the resulting heat is trapped by a layer of gases (termed as Greenhouse gases, which is composed mainly of carbon dioxide, methane, etc.). It is with this trapping mechanism that life was made possible, for without it the earth will be too cold to support life. But as of man’s interference, as a result of air pollution, more carbon dioxides and other greenhouse gases are expended into the atmosphere, trapping more heat. This extra heat causes ocean expansion and the melting of ice in the Polar Regions, resulting to an increase in seawater level; chaos in agriculture and fisheries; and ultimately, the climate change.

These seemingly horrible things could have been avoided had man been careful and sensitive of his actions. It may be a cliché, but, still “prevention is better than cure”. Given the situation, man has nothing to do but exert extra efforts for preventing further destruction and spoilage of our resources. Better yet, he must find ways to actually reverse the result of his actions. Initially, he can start with small things (in any way, great things start with small beginnings). He must promote the use of fuel-efficient vehicles and the use of PUVs instead of private transport; ban the use of CFCs; stop illegal logging and deforestation; use renewable energies; and the conduct of growing of trees activity. Also, he must not debate between saving the environment and progressing towards development. Instead, he must gear towards sustainable development. Further, he must disseminate information regarding the adverse effects and the possible solutions to the problems at hand, penalize some if not all “environment offenders”. And finally, work as well as live in harmony with nature.