Singapore swipe

56 matches in 3 nights. That's all I'm gonna divulge.

Solo slinging in Singapore

Just got back to Manila from Singapore last night. What was once a trip filled with uncertainty may have turned out to be my best Singapore swing ever. I wanted to extend but rebooking a new flight and re-upping the hotel didn't seem to be practical from a cost-benefit perspective. Might as well just plan another trip soon because the plane tickets would cost about the same.

Singapore swing

I'm flying to Singapore later today and will stay until Sunday. First time I'm going completely solo for an entire trip so I'm a wee bit excited. Should be an adventure of a lifetime.

Booked myself a swanky hotel right smack in the middle of everything so it'll be easier for me to go around and get around. I don't really have anything planned so I'll be winging it probably the entire time.

Hopefully, there'll be much to write about when I get back so stay tuned.

Wild bank run

It started with: 19 banker, 1 player. I stood up at 26 banker, 4 player.

That was a dream Baccarat shoebox. I wish I had rolled and pressed bets more, but I'm not complaining. I have enough for my Singapore trip this week.

Mayweather vs Pacquiao

About 5 years ago, I told myself I was going to do everything in my power to watch Pacquiao and Mayweather fight live in Las Vegas, if ever it were to happen. Many people (though mostly Filipinos) were saying that Floyd kept ducking Manny because he felt the Filipino boxing legend was a serious threat to his undefeated record.

Well, about 5-6 years too late, but it's finally happening. My mind has changed regarding watching it in person though, so I'm just gonna catch it on TV.

If this fight happened a few years ago, I think Manny upsets Money. But now? I think Floyd jogs his way to a unanimous decision.

Blue Eaglets reclaim UAAP HS hoops title

After 3 years, which for Ateneo high school basketball seemed like an eternity, the Blue Eaglets brought the Juniors basketball crown back to Katipunan. I hope it stays within the confines of Loyola Heights for a long time. It's about time we developed another dynasty.

V-Day

I was never a Valentine's Day fan and I honestly think it's overrated. I don't even remember the last time I celebrated V-Day with a girlfriend (or a significant other). Now before anyone says I'm not sweet and all that crap, let me tell you this: If I'm gonna do something sweet, I don't have to wait until V-Day to do it, right?

Anyway, for someone who's not into it, I actually had a very interesting V-Day date this past weekend. Dinner. Drinks. And then a Nicole Sherzinger show.

Here's to hoping for many nights like this one... Cheers!

Declare total war

I saw the video of the merciless murdering of the fallen PNP-SAF troopers in the hands of the MILF and/or BIFF insurgents.

Say no to the peace talks. Fuck these savages. I wish the Philippine government, especially President Noynoy Aquino, will grow some balls and make the executive decision to bomb the shit out of the Mindanao areas where they still roam free.

I'm not about that peace life. Not in Mindanao. Until these Muslim insurgents are totally eradicated, peace in that area will never prosper.

Casino wars

Had a chance to check out the relatively newly-opened City of Dreams (CoD) Manila complex recently. Looks a lot more promising than Solaire.

As of now, if I had to rank the three casino complexes based on my personal experience (as a gambler mind you, and not as a random tourist), I'd give a slight edge to Resorts World Manila (RWM) over City of Dreams for the top spot, while Solaire is the bottom-feeder.

I will have to revisit my rankings once all the structures and amenities are fully-operational already. Meantime, it's either RWM or CoD if I want to engage in a game of baccarat or craps.

White Rock down

Was at White Rock resort in Subic with the CoachCom team for a couple of days to facilitate teambuilding sessions for a client. We lined up 7 activity stations that tested their mettle and attacked their fears. Everything went really well and the participants had a great time.

I'm not a fan of the resort though. Food was blah. I mean, if I wasn't hungry, I'd probably skip meals. The accommodations weren't good either, probably because we were billeted at the old hotel. I think they should step up and renovate the older facilities though.

Anyway, I've been involved with CoachCom for about 2 years now. For those who are unaware, it is the management consultancy arm of legendary Filipino basketball coach Chot Reyes. For inquiries/bookings, drop me a line.

The Butler did it

I was on the phone with my bestfriend during the final minute or so of Super Bowl XXIX. He was on the road, on his way to basketball practice and he wanted a live play-by-play commentary.

Have to admit that I thought New England was about to lose when Seahawks WR Jermaine Kearse had that unreal multiple-bobble catch while on his back. With 1st-and-goal at the 5-yard line and enough time for at least 3 plays. I was pretty sure Marshawn Lynch, the Seattle monster running back also knows as Beast Mode, will punch in the winning touchdown. 

Deja vu at its worst. Ghosts of David Tyree's "helmet catch" in 2008, and Mario Manningham's sideline grab in 2012 were about to haunt the Patriots again.

And then it happened. On 2nd-and-goal at the 1, Russell Wilson threw a slant aimed at Ricardo Lockette. Seldom-used, backup Patriots defensive back Malcolm Butler, on instinct, jumped on the route and made an amazing interception on the football's biggest stage. Wow. Just wow.

I was screaming like hell. For sure, my neighbors wondered what was going on. I didn't care.

The Patriots win their 4th Super Bowl title in the most improbable fashion. It'been like 20 hours since the game ended, and I still cannot believe how they were able to pull it off.

Jubilation for the Patriots fans, despair for the Seahawks faithful. Fortunes changed in a span of a few seconds. But this is exactly why we love sports.

Un-fuckin-believable.

How sweep it is

The Ateneo Blue Eaglets (14-0) swept the elimination round of the ongoing UAAP High School basketball tourney by routing the defending champion NU Bullpups yesterday. That meant getting an automatic pass to the Finals, as well as having a thrice-to-beat advantage.

I'm not trying to guarantee anything but it seems the Eaglets are well on their way to getting back what always belonged in Katipunan -- the UAAP Juniors Basketball crown.

Growing up in the 1990s, the Ateneo HS basketball team used to always be in the Finals, most seasons as champions, while other times as runners-up. That run continued until the 2000s. They were simply the most dominant HS basketball program in the UAAP, and maybe even the country.

Then it all changed in 2011. Ateneo, coming from three consecutive HS championships, lost long-time coach Jamike Jarin to the pro league while superstar guard Kiefer Ravena graduated and moved on to the college ranks. There have been whispers that Coach Jarin knew that the succeeding teams won't be as good as his prior ones, so he wanted to move on before that happens.

True enough, the Blue Eaglets have been less than stellar from 2011 until 2013. They reached the Finals in 2013 only to be swept by NU.

Now, it seems like they're on a mission to regain what is rightfully ours. Here's to hoping this is the start of another decade or so of HS basketball dominance.

Kudos to my HS/college batchmate, coach Joe Silva (and his staff) for weathering a few years of mediocrity (comparing them to Ateneo High's high standards) and bringing back the team to the top of the UAAP Juniors basketball food chain.

TB12 over Beast Mode

Life is indeed unfair, even for the NFL superstars.

Sorry, Marshawn, but that's Tommy, the NFL's golden boy.

Justice for the slain PNP-SAF troops

"And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next." 

- Maximus Decimus Meridius

I hope justice will be served for the 44 PNP Special Action Forces commandos who were brutally massacred by the cowardly and treacherous Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

I don't think we should ever trust these Muslim rebels. We should just bomb the fuck out of their shithole camps in Mindanao. I will never understand why our government still wants a peaceful solution to this old problem when we can never trust them to abide by the conditions of the mutually agreed upon peace pacts.

                                     Photo from GMA News

#Senseless

Encountered two of the dumbest (yet popular) hashtags on social media recently:

#JimSaabSaveTheWorld - Apparently it was being used for a wedding. Saving the world? Really? 

#JusticeForDLSZKids - They're asking for justice because the Ayala Alabang Village Association decided that the cars of non-resident students of the school cannot enter the village everyday. Big problem, eh? I could enumerate a number of people who need real justice more than these Zobel students. The recently massacred troops of the PNP Special Action Force are on top of that list.

Google before you ask

I was once asked this question, and I laughed before I answered:

"What is your INTJ personality?"

She was referring to the personality assessment called the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (or MBTI), and INTJ is just one of the results. Good thing I come from an HR background, otherwise I wouldn't have figured it out.

Ignorance is never an excuse so better google before you ask (or speak) if you're unsure. It won't take much time.

American Sniper

I'm a big fan of war movies, even those that feel like they were made for propaganda. I've heard some folks say that this film is Hollywood's way of trying to help out America justify the Iraq war. You know what? I'm not concerned about the political motivations of any film, if any. I don't really care. Just give me two hours of entertainment and hopefully I go home satisfied.

I like violent movies. Maybe it's the fascination for guns that I've had since I was a kid. Maybe it's the same reason why I loved playing Counterstrike back in the day. It gives you a sneak peak, a thrill ride into what goes on during war, without the risk of being shot at.

I knew I was going to love the movie the moment the first theatrical trailers came out a few months ago. Add the fact that it had a lot of good reviews, was a box office hit, and that it was nominated for an Academy Award for best picture. It had must watch written all over it.

I'm rooting for it to win Best Picture, and for Bradley Cooper to get Best Actor.

Taken 3

I expected the third film of the Taken franchise to probably be the worst (among the three) since there was already a big dropoff between Taken to Taken 2. However, there was no way I was going to miss this one because I enjoyed the first two installments.

True enough -- Taken > Taken 2 > Taken 3

I'm happy it's finally done because I don't know how else they can squeeze another script out of the same storyline.

Maggie Grace though...

That shit Klay!

Golden State's Klay Thompson scored an NBA record 37 points in the third quarter last night against Sacramento. During that unreal God-mode run, he went a perfect 13 of 13 from the field, 9 of 9 from downtown. He finished with a career-high 52.

Klay-zy!

Dream Super Bowl matchup

This is exactly what everyone wants to see: New England vs Seattle. Offense vs Defense.

If you know me well, you'd know that I root for both these teams. The Patriots primarily because of my man-crush, my number 2 sports idol Tom Brady (next to NBA legend Michael Jordan). I also follow the Seahawks because I have family in the greater Seattle area.

I'd be fine with whoever wins, but I do want Tommy to get his 4th ring so I will cheer for New England.

Alabang Girl

I'm almost never in Alabang. I lived in the south for several years back when I was a kid (1985-1995) but even then, I was rarely in ATC (Alabang Twin Cinema is what they used to call the current Alabang Town Center).

I went to Alabang last November because my ex and her friends wanted to try out this ramen place inside the Molito complex. Prior to this, I think the last time I was in that area was mid-2011. I remember watching a movie, but don't recall what movie it was.

Anyway, as we were walking towards Yushoken, I noticed a familiar face inside Designer Blooms Cafe. Lo and behold, this lady, whom I have had a huge crush on for a long time, was seated at a table alone. She looked absolutely beautiful. I was like, "Are you f'n kidding me?" The one time I'm in her area, and I see her, it must be a sign, right? Well, no, not really since I had a girlfriend at that time. A few months before that and it would have been perfect timing.

I hope I bump into her again soon, and that we're still both single when that happens. But since I never solely rely with fate and serendipity, because I believe we need to make things happen instead of just waiting for things to happen, I've asked a common friend to try to make it happen.

Hoping my friend comes through.

John Legend serenaded Manila

One artist I wanted to see perform live in 2014 was John Legend. I remember wanting to watch him in Manila and/or Singapore a few years back but never got around to. This time, I was not going to let it pass.

I was ecstatic that he sung all the songs I like. I checked the net for his Asian setlist and it didn't have some of my favorites. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that he included his old hits for his Manila show.

Used To Love U
Green Light
Save Room
PDA (We Just Don't Care)
Tonight (Best You Ever Had)
All of Me

What a show it was indeed.

"You are polarizing."

Yes, that's what she said. Can't say I don't agree with her.

Wild Weekend of Sports

I'm an avid sports fan. I watch all sorts of sports that's why my cable subscription includes every possible sport available.

In the past 30 hours, I was treated to a wild weekend of highly entertaining games:

4 NFL Playoff games

Ateneo vs La Salle Women's Volleyball

Ateneo vs NU Men's Volleyball

PBA Finals Game 3

It all started with the New England Patriots - Baltimore Ravens playoff game, where the Patriots, led by my man-crush Tom Brady, had to climb out of two 14-point holes for a 35-31 comeback win. Then my second favorite NFL team, the Seattle Seahawks, blew out Carolina in the next game.

In local collegiate volleyball, Sunday had a pair of must watch games involving Ateneo. The topranked women's team (6-0) was facing La Salle (6-0), and the men's team (5-1) will challenge unbeaten NU.

The Lady Eagles came back from a 1-2 set deficit to win in 5 sets, while the Blue Eagles also prevailed in similar fashion, handing NU its first loss.

In PBA action, Alaska was down 20-plus points before mounting a monumental comeback to take Game 3 over San Miguel, 78-70. It was basically a repeat of Game 1 where they rallied back from 22 points to win in overtime. They lead the best-of-seven series, 2 games to 1.

About 10 hours earlier (Monday 2:00 am Manila), I was glued on the TV for another round of NFL playoff games. Green Bay squeaked past Dallas with the help of a controversial call, while the Indianapolis Colts upset the Denver Broncos on the road at Mile High.

Tomorrow, the first ever College Footbal Playoff National Championship game between (2)Oregon and (4)Ohio State will be played and it should be a good one. Rooting for the Ducks, Nike's flagship school.

Need more weekends like this.

Jones Fracture

It's been a while since I've had any major injuries but that streak ended in 2014 when I broke my foot last September.

I was playing in a weekend league when I landed on my opponent's foot while coming down from jump. The impact caused the base of my fifth metatarsal to break, while giving me a third degree ankle sprain as well.

The bone cracked in multiple places, but wasn't severe enough to require surgery to fix. Just had to put my right foot in an Aircast walking boot for 6 weeks. I recovered well enough to be able to resume playing after 7 weeks.

May have lost count already, but I think this was my 6th major injury (2 torn ACLs, a broken nose, 3 broken ankles and/or third degree sprains). Basketball never stops though.

Love and Heartbreak in 2014

Disclaimer: I actually enjoyed writing this, and everything is pretty much accurate but don't take it too seriously/literally. All in good fun.

------------------------------------------------------

My dating life in 2014

Had a number of twists and turns.

Here's a brief summary

In old school poem form.

I met a good deal of new lady friends

And went out with a few.

Got turned down a couple of times

But also broke a heart or two.

Dated a closet narcissist,

Who didn't fall into my usual type.

Glad that didn't last long,

Just had to kill the hype.

Messed with Tinder

And swiped right with the trend.

Suprisingly met a few people

Who turned out to become awesome friends.

Crossed paths with an old crush.

We flirted, dated and fell in love quickly.

Spent an evening to witness the great John Legend

As he serenaded Manila to "All of Me."

Thought we had a great relationship,

I felt she was The One.

She got me thinking long term.

Like my bachelor days are done.

Unfortunately, when the going got tough,

She quit on us too easily.

She didn't want to make it work,

Giving reasons and excuses so flimsy.

Won't lie, I felt pissed and crushed

But maybe things will work out in the end.

Looking forward to the future

Even if the present I can't comprehend.

It wasn't the best way to end the year

But such is life.

Hoping 2015 will be better

With the (new) love of my life by my side.

Goodbye 2014, Hello 2015

Ended the year on a not-so-good note. But that didn't mean I didn't flourish in 2014 and I still have plenty to be thankful for.

So much to say and write so I'll try make a Year-in-Review kind of post within the next few days. Just need to gather all my thoughts as I try to relive the memorable (and also the forgettable) moments of 2014.

Time is of the Quiescence

This blog has been dormant for over four years. I guess I either didn't have the time to religiously write and update, or I just lost interest.

Either way, I'm thinking of resuscitating this. Got so much material collected (to write about) over the course of my idle years. Plus, 2014 was hella crazy, and by itself can be the subject of a ton of posts.

Let's see how it goes.

2010 Singapore GP Weekend

I'm flying to Singapore later for the Singtel Grand Prix experience. There'll be events galore during the whole weekend culminating of course with the race proper on Sunday night and the after-party.

It'll be the first time Blek, Wangbu and I will be traveling out of the country together so it should be monumental.

My trips with either of them were all awesome adventures so the bar has been set very high. Anyhow, we'll have the entire weekend to make sure it exceeds it.

Best believe.

Big baccarat kid

Saw a young Chinese guy play baccarat last night with about 5M in capital. Dude was pushing markers like they were pawns in a chess game.

Wow.

Ateneo seeks 3rd straight title

Can't believe yesterday's Final Four game versus Adamson was the first game I went to this season. I usually catch a couple of games each year and I was expecting to see a lot since I have all the time.

Anyhow, Ateneo dominated the whole game en route to a 68-55 win, advancing to the championship round against FEU. Game 1 of the best-of-three series starts this Saturday. Too bad I won't be in town for the game and I'll probably have to settle for Twitter updates.

PBA Draft: Top 2 picks are Ateneans

I don't understand the fuss over Nonoy Baclao being #1 and Rabeh Al-Hussaini #2 in yesterday's PBA draft. Both are Ateneans. Both will play for Air21 and will get maximum contracts. No difference.

If it's his enormous pride and ego that bothers Rabeh that someone else went number 1, I hope he changes his attitude. Otherwise, he hasn't played a game of professional basketball but it might just be the start of his downfall.

Besides, it's his former teammate that was picked ahead of him so he shouldn't be upset and feel slighted.

Grow up, Rabeh.

Ateneo beats Adamson again

Ateneo stretched its win streak over Adamson University to 27 straight games with a 55-52 victory yesterday.

While Ateneo may have owned Adamson for the past 13 years or so, the Falcons have won the betting game the past couple of years. They've kept most games close thus having an excellent against the spread (ATS) record versus the Eagles.

Ateneo is now in solo 2nd in the UAAP standings with a 9-3 card. Adamson is third at 8-4.

Green genocide

The other day, a team of Ateneo Grade Schoolers massacred De La Salle Zobel kids 110-17 in the PAYA Midgets division. Talk about bringing humiliation to a whole new level.

Major props to the entire AGS PAYA Midgets team and to Jutes Templo, one of their coaches who is a good friend of mine. Keep it up!

So much for the future of DLSU basketball. ROTFLMAO.

Baby are you down?

I've been seriously considering watching the Jay Sean concert this weekend. Highly unlikely I will watch though unless I can get complimentary passes.

In any case, I have a few more days to decide.

Blog break

Can't believe I kept this blog idle for a month. LOL.

I guess I haven't been in the mood to update or there's not much going on to write about. Either way, I've been slacking big time.

Lotsa things happening soon so perhaps I just might get my blogging mojo back.

Blog backlog

I've been slacking on blogging recently. It's been a chaotic July to say the least andI haven't been in the best of moods to write anything.

Anyhow, I'll try to backblog and keep this thing updated.

Best pickup line ever

Quoting from NT's Approaching Women at Clubs thread:

I walk up to the girl, grab her arm and say, "Don't make me turn this rape into a murder."

Game over.

See you in Brazil 2014

I'm glad the World Cup is over. No more football posers masquerading as fans for the next four years.

An ode to Baccarat

You bring out the best and worst in me.

There's a reason I stopped playing you. There's a reason I keep coming back.

You are like an epic thrill ride, kinda like being on a rollercoaster without any harness.

"You've got the best of me but I just keep on coming back incessantly. Oh why, did you have to run your game on me? I should've known right from the start you'd go and break my heart."

2010 Singapore Grand Prix

I was supposed to watch last year's race but last minute plans didn't push through. This time, due to early and insistent peer pressure, I finally succumbed and booked my trip to Singapore this September.

I was never really a huge F1 fan plus this season has been rather disappointing and void of excitement or enthusiasm so it took a lot of convincing for me to cave in. Bottomline, my back was against the wall and I just couldn't say no. LOL.

Anyway, there's gonna be around a dozen of us who'll be going so it should be fun. And if it'll be anything like our HK/Macau trip back in 2008, then it will be freaking epic.

Beantown Meltdown

They were six minutes away from another championship. But when it mattered the most, they couldn't make any shot.

Boston lost Game 7 and the Lakers were lucky and happy enough to take what the Celtics handed to them - the Larry O'Brien trophy.

Game 7

One final game to end the 2009-10 NBA season.

Boston at Los Angeles tomorrow.

I hope it's a good one.

Stupid girl

I have zero pity for teenage sailor, Abby Sunderland, the 16-year-old who got stranded at the Indian Ocean with her damaged yacht. She got what she bargained for when she decided to claim popularity and fame by being the youngest person to circumnavigate the world.

She's lucky she was rescued in time though I was secretly hoping her boat would capsize before help came so she can be taught a valuable lesson in humility.

Goalkeeping gaffe

I was a former goalkeeper so I know the feeling. Still, there's absolutely no excuse for a mistake like this, especially in the World Cup.




This blunder should keep English goalkeeper Robert Green out of any future international duty.

Familiarity breeds contempt Vol. Stupid maid

My mom had to fire our stay-out household helper for having gone AWOL on us for the past two weeks. This lady finally sent my mom a text the other day saying she was sick and stuff. My mom said, "Fuck it, the least you could've done was tell us."

Thing is, this lady has been coming to clean and do laundry for us for about 9 years now. I guess she has become so comfortable and complacent about her status that she thinks she doesn't have to inform us if she's coming to work or not.

Long story short, do not dare bite the hand that feeds you do not shit where you eat. You just might end up eating your shit.

Snoozefest in South Africa

Two matches. Two goals. Two draws.

Save for a superb left-footed strike to the top right corner off a wonderful counter-attack by South African winger Siphiwe Tshabalala, the opening day of the 2010 World Cup was such a bore.

It was a far cry from the high-scoring opening game during the 2006 tournament in Germany, where the Germans beat Costa Rica, 4-2.

I hope these performances are not signs of things to come. Otherwise, I don't know how I'll manage to stay awake while watching the games.

ID 112

Happy 112th Independence Day Philippines. That's bullshit though because we were under the Japanese and Americans until the 1940's.

Not gonna front, sometimes I wish we were still an American colony though.

Best of three

With Boston and LA splitting the first four games, winning one each on the road and at home, the 2010 Finals series is down to a thrilling best-of-three.

Like a lot of other people, I think whoever wins Game 5 will end up being the champions. That said, no team has won consecutive games yet and the Celtics will have to win two straight at some point to have a shot at the title.

I'm hoping they snag Game 5 at home so they have a little breathing room going back to Los Angeles.

2010 South Africa

You know it's World Cup time again when people who don't know shit about football start becoming 'die-hard' fans for about a month or until their 'teams' get knocked out of the tourney.

What's worse is that I see a bunch of these bums post World Cup-related stuff on Twitter and Facebook.

SMGDFH.

-------------
I have the same sentiments as four years ago when I wrote this, World Cup fever.

Becoming Champion of Krynn

Finally.

After around 25 cumulative hours of gameplay, numerous deaths, and tons of save-load-save cycles, I managed to finish Champions of Krynn with no deaths to my party.

I could've finished sooner but I didn't want to leave any of my characters behind since I'm planning to carry them over to the game's sequel, Death Knights of Krynn.

I'm looking forward to starting that adventure soon and I'll bet it'll take me another week's worth of playing to finish that one too.

Hibernation

I've been staying in a lot the past several days. In fact, I haven't gone out of my condo since Monday. The reason?

Well, I've been hooked on playing AD&D's Champions of Krynn. It's an old DOS-based game that I used to love playing back in the day, early 1990s to be exact. The graphics are far from what we have now but nothing beats the nostalgic feeling it brings.

I wish they develop games now like they did before so I'll never have to get out of my house anymore.

The perfect crime

26 up, 26 down.

Armando Galarraga needed one out for a perfect game.

He got Cleveland's 27th batter to hit a bouncer in between first and second base. Detroit's first baseman Miguel Cabrera fielded it cleanly and relayed to Galaragga who stepped on first base for the final out and the perfect game.

But no, first base umpire Jim Joyce wanted none of that and called the runner safe. You know how it's a badly blown call when even the runner, Jason Donald, couldn't believe he beat the throw. Replays showed he was clearly out by a mile.

The blown call, perhaps the worst I've seen ever, just robbed a pitcher of an incredible perfect game.

I love watching baseball and it's a shame that the umpires have been terrible in recent years. I think it's about time they expand the instant replay rule. The times have changed and the technology available allows for mistakes to be corrected.

All the other major sports have embraced replay and MLB should follow suit.

Out by a mile

Boston and LA meet again

David Stern wanted LeBron vs Kobe.

But I'm sure he's satisfied with another Celtics-Lakers matchup.

The Lakers bombed out of the 2008 Finals, getting thoroughly embarrassed by the Boston's new Big Three. I'm sure they're raring for revenge.

For the Celtics, they've another chance of proving themselves at the big stage. They were awful last year while Garnett was out injured. They were mediocre during this year's regular season too. But they turned things around in the playoffs by dismantling major favorites (Cavs and Magic) along the way.

I'd hate for the Lakers to repeat as champions so you know who I'm rooting for.

Back from HK

Didn't really do much there except walk a lot. Won't be surprised if I lost weight. All I know is that my legs hurt every night. LOL.

I had all the opportunity to shop but I didn't get to buy anything. There were some stuff I wanted at H&M but the sizing was abysmal. Small was too small and medium was too big. Definitely disappointing.

Also, I slept early the whole time I was there. I'd be asleep by 10pm and would wake up around 6am. It was prolly because I had nothing to do at night. I didn't bring a laptop, and there wasn't much channels on the hotel cable TV.

Speaking of sleeping early, I missed out on a huge party at Dragon-I with my HK-based friends because of that. I was too knocked out to even hear any of the missed calls/messages.

Anyhow, if plans push through, I should be back in June or July. I just absolutely love Hong Kong.

HK hideaway

Heading out to Hong Kong in a bit. Last time I was there was in 2008, just before the Beijing Olympics, and it was only for less than a day.

So yes, I'm kinda stoked I'll be staying there for a few days, away from the extreme Manila heat. The only thing not so nice about the trip is that the weather is bad over there.

Oh well, still way better than here.

Conjugal FB

I see more and more couples sharing one Facebook account nowadays. I think that's tantamount to asking for trouble. You know, it's like digging on your backyard looking for dirt.

There are a number of things a couple can share, but Facebook is definitely not one of them.

Celtics are looking good

Since the Celtics are halfway to reaching the NBA Finals once again and if West Finals Game 1 was any indication, I think it'll be another Boston-LA championship series. I'm sure Kobe wants some revenge for the mauling that Paul Pierce and the Celtics handed to his Lakers a couple of years back.

Personally though, I want Grant Hill and Steve Nash to get their chances at winning a ring so perhaps I'd root for a Celtics-Suns matchup. That way, I wouldn't mind either team winning.

Ten thousand tweets

I finally hit the 10k plateau last week, thanks to TweetDeck. LOL.

I've been remiss on my Twitter game the past couple of months but regained momentum back when I finally gave in to downloading the third party application.

Looking forward to the next 10,000 tweets within the next year or so...

King without a Ring

Sorry Lebron. Maybe next year.


I won't feel bad for him though, because he will have the entire NBA at his mercy by July 1st.

Goodbye Cleveland.

2010 Election aftermath

Looks like AbNoy is headed towards a convincing victory and perhaps Josh Aquino just might be the first mentally-ill kid to reside in Malacañang.

I'm foreseeing a lot of educated folks emmigrating soon.

Bulls run over Rockets

Alright, so some knuckleheads went on NT saying that Hakeem's 1994 and 1995 championship teams will beat Jordan's Bulls had the GOAT not skipped the NBA to play minor league baseball.

Here's my take as posted on NT:

The Bulls won 6 titles in the 90s, both three-peats. The Rockets won 2 in 1994 and 1995.

Isn't it a painful coincidence that the Rockets won their only titles when MJ was out? They weren't even relevant in any of the other playoffs in the 90s when MJ was playing.

That said, I gotta give it to the Bulls. Heck, Hakeem couldn't even reach the Finals on any of the other years so what makes some fools think he can barge into the Finals and beat MJ's Bulls?

Then MJ comes back and suddenly the Rockets disappear yet again.

--------------

Facts don't lie. Jordan and his Bulls owned the 1990s and if MJ didn't take a leave for almost two full seasons, we might be looking at eight consecutive championships for Chicago.

Go GREEN

This is the only time, at least as far as I can remember, that I'm supporting GREEN.

Sulong G1BO!!!

Best of luck boys

Good luck to a few friends of mine who are running for local government positions.

Erwin Genuino
for Mayor of Makati City

Ernest Buan
for Mayor of Mandaluyong City

Alfred Vargas
for Councilor, 2nd District off Quezon City

-----------

AMDG

Halalan 2010

"Do not choose the lesser evil, rather vote for the greater good."

May we have peaceful and honest elections.

Go G1BO!

Go G1BO

The best man for the job is Gibo Teodoro. All the other presidentiables don''t even come close.

ArenaBall Week 2 postponed

ArenaBall Philippines' Week 2 games were moved from May 9 to May 15 (or 16) due to the observance of Mothers' Day. I find it weird because I've never seen any major event being postponed due to this kind of celebration.

I'm baffled.

That baccarat rush

I haven't felt the thrill of playing high stakes baccarat for a long time until a few days ago. Can't say I missed the feeling but it definitely got me sweating while squeezing cards.

Butt lovin'

Definitely cheeky.

RW Manila

I have no idea why a lot of people still say Resort World when it's clearly Resorts World Manila.

They've been operating for almost a year and people still make the same stupid mistake. SMFH.

Titans get Rolle model

Awesome read via Yahoo! Sports.

----------------

Titans get Rhodes Scholar Myron Rolle in sixth round
By Doug Farrar

The Tennessee Titans may have questions about what they see on game film from their sixth-round safety, but there won't be any questions about his intelligence, determination or character. With the 207th overall pick (the final pick in the sixth round), Tennessee drafted Florida State's Myron Rolle. There's some real football skill there, but it's what Rolle did outside of football in the 2009 season that made news.

Rolle, who graduated in 2 ½ years from Florida State with a 3.75 GPA, spent the 2009 football season as a Rhodes Scholar, studying in Oxford, England at the highest academic level. Still, he was labeled by some as a football deserter - someone whose love for the game was questioned. He came back to the game in time for all the 2010 pre-draft activities, recording decent numbers at the scouting combine and in a private workout for NFL scouts.

At the combine, Rolle tried to explain how he reconciled his love for football and his future dreams of a career in medicine. "That's been a popular question that I've received here. My answer to them, which is a genuine and truthful answer, is that I think my pursuits academically have helped me in football. You learn discipline, you learn time management, you learn structure, you learn organization and as a football player those are obviously valuable assets and traits you can use to be great whether in film studies or on the field. I tell them I want to transform all of the positive traits I've learned in the classroom by the pinnacle of academic achievement, the Rhodes Scholarship, become an even better football player by it.''

I have to say, I'm rooting for Rolle to make it all happen. In a culture that professes character first and still frequently gives the best chances to the worst people, it's good to see a guy like Rolle study at a level most would find incomprehensible and manage to keep his football goals alive by maintaining a workout schedule in England. Still, it was tough to be away from the environment at times.

"I would say American football is not a very revered sport there," Rolle said of his time in Old Blighty. "I had a chance to go to the Patriots-Bucs game at Wembley Stadium. I saw every team represented there by a jersey, by a British fan, and they were cheering for punts. It was fun -- great to be there, a great stadium, great environment, great atmosphere. As far as my cohorts at Oxford, my classmates, my friends who were Rhodes Scholars -- they really didn't understand why I woke up at 6 every morning to train. I tried to explain to them the importance of it and why I had to go through these particular events and it still didn't make too much sense to them. So I tried to change the topic to the United Nations or world hunger or something like that."

In any event, here's a guy who won't have too much trouble deciphering man-free coverage stuff in the playbook. Best of luck, Mr. (or should we say Dr.) Rolle.

----------------

I hope he goes on to have a productive if not great NFL career. I'll be rooting for him.

ArenaBall Philippines season opener

ArenaBall Philippines (ABP) finally opened its much-anticipated inaugural season last night at the Marikina Sports Center. I checked in late for the pregame meeting but just in time to officiate the first game.

The season-opening game turned out to be a nailbiter as the Barracudas edged the Juggernauts, 15-14, by successfully going for a 2-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. Had they missed, the Juggernauts would've held on to win.

I must say that the game was very difficult to officiate. Yellow flags were being thrown like every other play. False starts and offsides were the most common, followed by personal fouls which were usually late hits. My legs were literally spent after the game.

The second game was quite a bore because the Bandits dominated the Wolves in pretty much every aspect, shutting them out with a 50-0 rout. It was a very disciplined game with hardly any penalties. If I remember correctly, there were only two yellow flags thrown, both personal fouls.


You may check the ABP website for the rest of the season schedule.

High-end spending

I just pulled the trigger on my most expensive purchase to date. While admittedly still pricy, for the price I'm getting it for, it comes out as a huge steal. Plus I'm sure I won't be getting a better deal anywhere else.

The Hideki

Former Yankee and 2009 World Series MVP Hideki Matsui got his WS championship ring during New York's home opener last week against the Los Angeles Angels.

It was a pretty nice sight seeing all his former teammates mob him during the pre-game celebration. The crowd also gave him a well-deserved standing ovation.

I've to admit I miss seeing Godzilla man the 5th spot on the Yankees batting order. But Robinson Cano's been beasting so far so that makes losing Matsui's offensive contributions more acceptable.

Cum bomb

Kaboom!

That must've been like a month's worth of juice. LMFAO.

Kick-Ass kicks ass

Saw the movie Kick-Ass the other night and I got way more than I bargained for. It was pure, unadulterated, non-stop violence which suited my taste just fine.

It reminded me of some of my favorite (recent) films with straight-up disturbing-but-awesome violence - Taken, Law-Abiding Citizen and John Rambo.

Do I hear a sequel?

Twice busted

I joined my first major poker tournament yesterday and it did not go too well. LOL.

I busted out early at my first table after taking my pocket ducks all the way to the river. I had the guy at Ace-King and I didn't expect him to have hit the top pair on the flop (8-4-4). I would've folded had the flop been face cards.

I busted out the second time after a few more levels, this time I went all-in with an off-suited Ace-Jack. I had probably the shortest stack on the table and the huge big blind was creeping already so I said fuck it and let's do this. My opponent had Ace-Queen and that was the end of my short and forgettable first stint at a major poker event.

Props to my friend, Josh, for making it past the super satellite and winning an Php 11k seat at the main event. He was among the top 5 among the 17 satellite qualifiers.

Love-stained

Oooh hot damn.

Please tell me those are love stains.

Poker face

I've been playing a lot of online poker recently since I've been stuck at home for the most part. But no, I don't use Facebook's Zynga. That's child's play. LOL. I play via PokerStars.

Playing online is a kinda frustrating and annoying because people call bets almost everytime. It's like they have little to no regard for money. What's worse and entirely laughable are folks who go pre-flop all-in with a Jack-5 off-suit. C'mon you ain't fooling anybody with those.

It's a good way to kill time but like all other things virtual, they don't compare to the real thing.

From RWM to MBS

A good number of dice dealers (craps) from Resorts World Manila moved to Singapore recently to work for the soon-to-be opened Marina Bay Sands Resorts and Casino.

I'll definitely miss seeing you guys at the craps table but I'm sure the opportunity to work in MBS is too good to pass up.

Best of luck!

Huggins is that dude

West Virginia's senior forward DaSean Butler, a model student athlete and a projected NBA first-round pick this June, fell awkwardly in the Mountaineers blowout loss to Duke in the NCAA national semifinals yesterday.

Butler was driving to the hoop when his left knee buckled and gave way, causing him to crash into Duke center Brian Zoubek. He lay on the floor for several minutes while writhing in obvious pain.

It was learned that Butler completely tore his ACL while suffering a sprained MCL and a couple of bone bruises. This temporarily derails his basketball career and his dream of playing in the NBA.

This photo encapsulates the surreal moment immediately after the heartbreaking injury.


That's WVU coach Bob Huggins consoling Butler after blowing out his left knee. I won't lie but that scene got me a little emotional while watching the game on live television. It was such a powerful moment that puts everything, especially basketball, in perspective.

Blue wonder

Wow.

I'd easily get lost in those eyes.

Butler versus Duke

Being a Carolina fan, I'm definitely rooting against Duke. But as much as I'd like to believe Butler has more than a legit chance to oust Duke, I think the kids from Durham will take it. The Bulldogs need to have a near-perfect game to win while the Blue Devils may survive with an average performance.

I won't be surprised if Butler gets blown out, but you know I'm praying they come up with the game of their lives for a monumental upset.

By the way, regardless of the outcome, the best player on the court tomorrow will be Butler's Gordon Hayward, the only sure-fire NBA first-rounder still playing.

Most valuable plagiarizer?

Ateneo and Philippine sports patron Manny V. Pangilinan, MVP to us Filipinos, has been under fire lately for plagiarism.

Apparently, parts of MVP's speech to the graduates of Ateneo's School of Humanities and Social Sciences last March 27 mirrored portions of prior commencement speeches done by author JK Rowling and entertainment mogul and philathropist Oprah Winfrey.

MVP has since apologized for the lapse and has conferred his wish to resign from the Ateneo's Board of Trustees.

The only reason why this has gotten so much fanfare is because of MVP's popularity. I mean, in all seriousness, I'm pretty certain we have all plagiarized or 'borrowed' lines, paragraphs and possibly even reports to satisfy academic requirements at some point in our scholastic lives. We only got away because we weren't caught and even if we did get caught, we were not popular enough to deserve this overwhelming public scrutiny.

I think we should give him a break. He has admitted to his (or his speechwriter's) mistake and has offered a public apology. No need to dwell on it and let's all just keep it moving.

Facebook status fail Vol. Deck of cards

Major fail. Lamebook quality. LMAO.

Can anyone get any dumber?

Timbaland and Timberlake in Manila

I'm not gonna lie. When the news came out that Justin Timberlake was coming to Manila for a show, I was skeptical. I didn't think it was gonna happen.

Well, he did fly in, along with Timbaland and JoJo, last weekend and I heard the concert was great.

Major props to Smart and PLDT for making it happen.

Bar poser not passer

The 2009 Philippine Bar results came out last week and as always, seven of the top eleven passers were Ateneans. What's new, right?

Anyway, I saw this status on someone's YM and I burst into grand laughter.





The multiple exclamation points prove that she's ecstatic about the results.

Too bad her name had no chance of making it to the prestigious list because she has never even set foot inside law school.

I don't know what's worse - being a barrister yet not seeing your name on the list, or getting excited about the list but you didn't even take the exam.

How do you brush your teeth?

Ladies, take notice. This is the proper way of brushing your teeth.

Damn. I think the toothbrush just came. Thrice.

Making paper

I'll be honest. I'm very overwhelmed with the success of my little business venture. It makes me want to take more risks and explore other income opportunities.

Hopefully I can strike gold again.

The Package has landed

I finally got my package yesterday but it seemed like I waited forever inside the PhilPost EMS Customs office. It took the them about two hours to hand me my box, not without some old-fashioned bribe of course.

It's all good though. I'm happy, they're happy. I go home relieved, they go home delighted.

The Package

I've been patiently waiting for a package for several days now. It drives me nuts not knowing when it will arrive.

I hope the folks at PhilPost or at Customs don't fuck me over.

Globe's Business Value Plan

Globe Telecom sent me a new phone not too long ago. They usually send me one every two years like most others who qualify for their loyalty programs. This is my 12th year with them by the way.

The new phone is nice. But my new plan is way nicer, even better than Platinum. It's pretty much unlimited calls and texts for about Php 1500. The cherry on top? You cannot apply for it. You have to get an invite to avail.

I've been tempted and seduced to migrate to Smart a number of times. But I'm definitely glad I stayed with Globe.

Ultimate Fighting Chicken

Perfectly-executed wing-bar.


Tap tap.

Luxury sex on wheels

I'm not a big fan of the Quattroporte, but this got me to do a double-take and now I'm sold. This is definitely sex on wheels. No wonder Vinny and E drive one around.

Bridal cars

A friend of mine from Cebu got married recently. This is just part of her family's awesome garage.

Gallardo. Lexus. SL55. Bimmer. CLS. Rover Sport. GTR R35.

Not in the photo are a bunch of other exotic automobiles.

La Salle's "Tafat"

I saw albums of people celebrating their graduation from College of Saint Benilde on Facebook.

I'm sorry to be straightforwardly rude, but since when did graduating from CSB become a milestone?

Seriously. We all know how DLSU people feel about their across-the-street counterparts.

8888

Four eights to infinity.

Another black beauty

I said before I'd give my ass for a badass matte black R8. I'd let you fondle my balls for this one.

CLS55 AMG in matte black

Timbaland, JoJo and JT in Manila

A number of things are wrong here.

First, Timbaland gets major billing over JT???

Second, JoJo and JT are on equal billing???

Third, JT as a special guest???

Fourth, tickets are cheaper than the Rihanna/Chris Brown or PCD shows???

Something tells me Justin Timberlake's special appearance will be limited to a "live video feed."

If I were you, I wouldn't get my hopes up. I smell a fish somewhere.

EDSA Fail

Freaking EDSA anniversary activities caused major traffic jams across the metropolis. Seriously, why the fuck do we still celebrate it like it was yesterday?

A simple commemoration would suffice. Closing EDSA to motorists is plain idiotic.

I bet if Noynoy wins, he'd turn EDSA People Power into a week-long celebration.

Que horror!