The Known Witch of Wall Street

Have you heard about the richest yet the stingiest woman in the world? If not, you need to read  this post because this is really interesting.

Her name is Hetty Green. A lucky girl who was born in Massachusetts and inherited the wealth of his millionaire father. At the age of 21, her business-minded father died and she started to invest her money in Wall Street, New York. She was called as the “Witch of Wall Street” because she always wear her long,ragged and black clothes in spite of her richness! That make her look like a witch! Her attitude, character and choices in life made people think that she really stinks!

We normally see prominent and rich people riding in their limo and expensive cars, live in a huge and comfortable house, have chambermaids, travel to luxurious tourist destinations, eat in fancy restaurants, shop clothes with signatures and uses products with top quality. In Hetty Green’s case, here are the unforgettable things that she did which are unbelievable! I myself, I was surprised!

1. Eat in cheapest restaurants.
2. Buy broken cookies.
3. Collect free bones for her dog.
4. Don’t buy clothes for herself.
5. Always argue with stores’ prices.

The worst and unacceptable thing that she did was she didn’t sent her ailing son to the hospital! What she did was, she spent long hours in looking for free medical help! In doing so, her son’s leg was amputated. It’s too late because doctors have to cut it. Can you believe it!?

Usually rich people get the most intelligent doctors in practice and make use of the expensive and advance hospital facilities especially when the members of the family are sick. Furthermore, they have greater chances of getting well since they can afford to cure themselves if the case is curable.

In 1916, Hetty Green died and left $100Million. Now its cost is $9.3 Billion. Her daughter Sylvia didn’t follow her mother’s steps. Instead, she use the money to build a hospital using that money. She was unhappy with what happened to her brother.

When we die, our possessions and wealth can’t be with us. It’s best then to share it to help the needy and enjoy our life without leaving your own hands empty.

Read more

Biography of Hetty Green

Who was Hetty Green?

Lee Da Hae's Impression of Filipino's English Accent

I just saw a video of a Korean actress making fun of Filipino's accent when we speak English.In the vid Lee Da Hae of My Girl differentiate the accent of the British,the Americans and the Filipinos by imitating.Many of my fellows reacted to it and saw it as a form of racism and discrimination.It fueled them to bring up the issue of race and felt that we are insulted.

 

I personally think that Koreans have that kind of impression to us because NOT all teachers who teach them are really teachers! And NOT all teachers they had mastered English! They can't expect Filipinos to teach perfectly for that reason!English is not a big thing for us but it is for Koreans as of the moment.However, I don't see it quite like that. We don't speak that way just how Lee Da Hae did on the video.It seems to me as an exaggeration.I'm wondering what would be their reaction if they see Ryan Bang says "lily" instead of "really" and all his  poor command of English.

Not everybody will agree with me but I had taught Koreans for three years and 2 out 10 speak good English among them based on my experience.I'd like to say that Koreans come to my country to learn English maybe because it's more difficult to understand the native speakers than us.Many of my students told me they go first in the Philippines before going to Canada, Australia, England and USA specially those who can't afford to study in the mentioned countries.

I remember one of my college professors telling us that accent is not the Top 1 priority when you study English.Observing proper grammar rules and applying them in a suitable situation are more important.I noticed that the Aquinos including our president does not necessarily have the accent simply because they are Filipinos and not Americans.

Lee Da Hae's video on that show is now unavailable.KBSi has claimed their copyright and nobody can watch it.Perhaps Koreans want to stop people from sharing it.

BUT you CAN watch it here : Lee Da Hae's Impression of Filipinos' Accent on Facebook You have to log in though to be able to watch the video.

Pacquiao Endorses Sen. Reid and Records Another Song

Filipinos are known to be jolly and music lover.Most Filipinos can sing and Dan Hill is happy to know that Manny can do boxing and recording at the same time!We're multi-talented and we do multi tasking!Dan Hill is a Canadian pop singer and songwriter.From a boxing ring to a recording studio the pound-for-pound king shows his enthusiasm and ability to perform well.Manny Pacquiao is doing Dan's hit song "Sometimes When We Touch".

In addition, our Filipino boxer is getting more and more popular! Pacman's endording a US Senator named Harry Reid.Pinoys abroad are proud and happy because reid had pushed Filipino rights to be accepted in the states.

On November 14, 2010 the seven-division champ "pacman" will face Antonio Margarito for another fight.Good luck Manny and bring home the bacon!

A Great Lesson from a True Story

All of us want to be somebody in the society and be proud of whatever we have or achieved. I've got a question for you to answer.Would you like to have a very inclined life in the beginning of your journey but in the end you end up with nothing? I want to share this true story that will teach every Filipino family a lesson.

I watched the "Blusa" Episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya via internet. Blusa is a tagalog term which means a blouse.That thing was wore by the main character by the time that she was hunting for a job.It was a gift given to her by her caring and loving sister (Dimple Romana).The main character was played by Angel Locsin.She was awarded as Magna Cum Laude when she graduated in college.She's a product of the University of the Philippines.She's an achiever in the family and her parents are expecting much from her.Her siblings stopped going to school because she was the one prioritized to be sent .Since she was a young girl all she wanted was to help her family alleviate from poverty.Her goal is to fulfill it.She was high-spirited and very much confident that after finishing school she'll have a good job.

Fate came and tested her.She tried hard to look for one but she didn't get any.In addition,she was pressured because her dad got sick.She had to give financial support to them and found herself working in a night club!Her mom sent her away after her father died without getting proper medications and she blamed herself much. She believed that she caused the death of his father.

She came from a province and she was a scholar in UP Manila.Her sister stayed with her in times that she's no longer in her proper  mind setting.Due to depression, much family pressure and extreme disappointments she went crazy. Her emotional stability was shaken with what happened to her.She's no longer having normal thinking.She doesn't have enough food to eat most of the time because her sister had to leave her. The main character has an attitude problem and that cause their separation.Her pride is the reason why she wasn't successful. She keeps on thinking that she's a failure to everybody.

I'd say that her life isn't balance.He never had a boyfriend to be with or close friends to share her problems with.She only had her sister.Her sister has her own family.She didn't stop taking care of her though.Her mom was no longer concern about her because her mom felt that she's a disappointment in their community.

It couldn't happen to her if only if her mom didn't force her to achieve great things in life easily.Her pride added to her own destruction.She longs for good things for her family.There's nothing wrong with it.But the way she sees how life goes is the wrong one.Furthermore, she doesn't have the right perspective and thought that life is indeed unfair.

I always believe that the kind of foundation that a family has will serve as the members' base in getting into the different avenues of life.Moreover, balance is the key word to get along with the world well.

Intelligence alone can't make a person successful.Attitude goes along with it.

In the Presence of my Enemies

Last February, I read a very inspiring and page-turning non-fiction book-In the Presence of my Enemies by Gracia Burnham with Dean Merrill. If we remember Gracia was abducted by the Abbu Sayyaf.She was held captive with her husband, Martin who didn't survive in a year of terror. They are American missionaries who dedicate themselves to God. They humble themselves, become God's servants, and have lived in the Philippines for their mission.

"The issue...is not why an all-powerful God might choose to subject a man to evil, 

but how a man, with God’s help, responds to evil...

The Burnhams, under torturous conditions, befriended their guards, 

comforted their fellow hostages and kept their faith in a God 

who seemed to have abandoned them." USA TODAY

I like the book. I learned how hard it is to be kidnapped.To be taken away from your love ones with no life assurance the following day.I always hear news about the  Abbu Sayyaf group on TV but I've learned more about them after reading Gracia's book. The book describes each person who's involved in the story.The hostages and the Filipino terrorist who were engaged in the islamic movement are identified.So you get to know them before reading the entire story.

If you're down at the moment, reading the book will definitely encourage you to get your hope back. With the couple's experiences in the jungle in the hands of their abductors, you'll realize that despite difficulties the couple remained strong.There's a part of the book when Gracia started asking God about their situation. She felt like God abandoned them in Philippine jungle.She almost gave up her faith but Martin was there to remind her about God's way.

Wherever we go, we will be facing threats.Enemies are like thieves waiting for the perfect time to attack.Problems won't leave us. In the Presence of my Enemies is a great book that defines faith, courage and hope.Gracia believed that she can make it through the rain and was reunited when her children in the states.She has proved that God has a purpose for letting it happened.

Big thanks to my co-worker who shared the book with me.She happens to have the same name with me.We took in turns in reading it.

Karen Voted Out in Survivor Philippines

I knew it would be Karen, the "Taray Queen" who's gonna leave. Some of her fellow castaways found her annoying. She talks a lot about nonsense things.Some of the boys partly knew her on their first day at the island.Although Moi was the reason why Nagar had lost the last immunity challenge, they know Moi can do better things than Karen.For the rest of Nagar Karen has no much use so they voted her out.

Karen formerly belongs to old Sar Mayee and I can sense that Pretty Trizsa and her are not getting along well with each other.The latest castaway who is voted out in Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown admits that she has attitude problem.

Karen delos Reyes was first seen in Mcdonald's ad on TV. I was surprised to see her on the game.I didn't expect that she's mataray.At the beginning of the game I was sure she would be hated because of her undesirable character.In the back of my mind I knew she's not staying long.Moi did the right decision of not using her immunity bracelet. She was confident that she's staying in the game.

Buwi Voted Out in Survivor Philippines

One of the tribe leaders is out of the game.The bassist of the band Parokya ni Edgar  Buhawi "Buwi" Menesis' journey in the third season of Survivor Philippines  Celebrity Showdown is officially over.Magan had three consecutive loses in the immunity challenge and Buwi is the third castaway to leave the island.He is voted out by his three remaining tribesmen.Elma, Solenn and Mico decided to boot him out. 

Perhaps they see that he's a weak leader. The early destruction of their tribe is because of Buwi's choice.In the beginning, he ended Doc Ferdz stay in the island.He's not doing so well in their challenges.Elma, Solenn and Mico have made individual challenges already and he hasn't. I was surprised to see that Solenn did the tie breaking challenge.She had to eat three scorpions to save her tribe but Ian of Nagar first made it.

Teachers as Volunteers

I've just deleted some photos in my files and I ended up reminiscing the moments I had in Kamp Pag-asa or the Camp of Hope. I've come to think about the number of teachers who served and volunteered themselves for the said activity.The delegates are usually nurses,physical therapy students,social workers and Special Education or SpEd teachers.I've met a huge number of teachers in the camp.It was nice to meet them.Their presence is really important.They serve as our mother in the camp.

As the days went on, I saw how these teachers shoulder the activities.I felt their sincerity and dedication in helping the kids with different disabilities.With our programs, I was able to witness the talents and unique strategies employed by them which are definitely helpful to the needs of those children!

The leaders and asst. leaders of Kamp Pag-asa 2010

At night time, the kids enjoy story telling.I'm already old to hear those kiddie stories yet I was still entertained.Through this short time bonding with the kids and fellow volunteers  who are teachers,I was able to utter these words: "These people are really educators and facilitators".

Myka Voted Out in Survivor Philippines

Myka is officially out of the game.In the last immunity challenge, Magan lost and was endangered.Myka got three votes out of five. She was out of the camp for two days. She wasn't there when her tribe fought for another challenge.She was rushed to the hospital due to excessive shaking of body parts. Her fellow castaways see that she's physically weak and she isn't a big asset in the tribe though she's the one trusted in their food.  

Before the voting happens, the castaways were able to answer Richard's questions about their tribe. Buwi said he didn't regret his decision for booting Doc Ferdz out. He believes they're still strong without him.Mico, on the other hand commented they've lost a big man in the tribe. For him it was too early for Doc Ferdz to be voted out.He added that the tribe leader, Buwi was to carried away with his emotions and didn't give Doc Ferdz a second chance to stay in the game.

Nagar has got Ervik

Part of winning the reward challenge (Spilling Rice Grain) Nagar was given a scroll. It says Nagar is given the freewill to get somebody from Sar Mayee and they have got Ervik. He's now part of Jon's team.

I guess Ervik is happy to be one of them. From the beginning, Ervik doesn't like his tribe-Sar Mayee. But when he belongs to Nagar, he started working. He used to be lazy as what his former tribesmen say.He was smiling on his way to Nagar's camp because he knows Nagar has got shelter, better food and of course Jon's team is a strong one. Nagar always wins in the challenges. He sees that they're organized and the members don't need to be told to do what they have to.Ervik is happy to see Moi. He's close to her and Ahron.Jon and Michelle are worried. The original plan might not work. They agreed that whoever joins their tribe should be voted out if they're going to the tribal council.But it's now three on three. Jon,Michelle and Ian alliance vs Moi,Ahron and Ervik.

Doc Ferdz Voted Out in Survivor Philippines

The tribe has spoken and the first person to leave the island in Indonesia has just left.Magan's tribe leader Buwi was surprised when he was told to be the one to choose who's to vote out.I understand it was a hard decision to make.The castaways didn't expect it. All they knew at the beginning was that each one of them will vote.However the appointed one,Buwi,a guitarist from Parokya ni Edgar had chosen Doc Ferdz to leave the tribe.

It was obvious that Doc Ferdz is not ready to go yet. I could see in his face how upset he was. He strongly believed that he's staying. He was too much confident that the tribe leader needs him most among the rest. It's undeniable that Doc Ferdz has a bad feeling.Buwi apologized for voting him out.

In my own opinion, being one of the strongest link in a group is a good asset. Doc Ferdz is a good catch in the tribe. His strength is really needed. When Survivor Philippines Celebrity Showdown started I thought of him as a smart guy.However, attitude matters. No matter how good you are, if you don't have a good relationship towards the people you're working with, sometimes it won't help you stay in a group.I guess Doc Ferdz had forgotten Buwi's authority as their leader.Some of his group mates are complaining about his bossy attitude.

Dr. Ferdinand Recio a.k.a. Doc Ferdz is a 33-year old veterinarian and a TV host of Born to be Wild.

Little Pacquiao?

I was able to identify who "Little Pacquiao" is by watching the boxing event-Philippines vs The World that happened at Waterfront Hotel & Casino in Cebu City last August 28.A Filipino boxer named Florante Condes from Binangonan, Rizal is tagged as "Little Pacquiao". He is an IBF champ that won over an Indonesian boxer Sofyan Effendi.When I heard his alias, I got interested with the fight. Condes gained his nickname for being one of the hardest punchers in the lower weight. Like the pound-for-pound king Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao, Condes uses his left hand to give a blast in the boxing ring to defeat his opponent.

photo courtesy of philboxing.com by Dong Secuya 

The southpaw was leery of his "Little Pacquiao" tag.According to him Pacquiao and himself are different. Of course he can never be Pacman.He wasn't comfortable with it.However, he commented it's a great honor to be compared to his idol.But he'd prefer to be called as "The Lion from Manila".

Condes Dominate Effindi Shutout Win 

Good luck to his boxing career.

Centenary Birthday of Mother Teresa

Regardless of religion, I salute every woman in the world who remained humble for the poor and impoverished ones.Mother Teresa is one of the most beautiful woman I know in this world for her passion for mission work.I see real beauty inside and out.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner gained recognition by the Roman Catholic church as we celebrate her 100th birthday. This month, people around the world remember how she lived her life. If we remember, she had chosen to spend her life with unfortunate people in India.

 The Saint of the Gutters

I'm a born again Christian and I'm one of those who are touched and blessed with her life. The world would probably be more livable if most of us have a heart for the needy like her. We live in a world full of self-centered and ambitious individuals that worsen relationships.Consequently affecting the community, the nation, and the world.She is truly a legendary woman who possessed the real virtues of being a servant of God.

The Centenary Birthday of Mother Teresa will surely encourage us to check our hearts.May her life, work, and death guide us to choose the right path and live our life accordingly.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Mother Teresa.

Venus Raj: Major,major problem

Yesterday, eighty three gorgeous women from around the globe battled for the pageant of the most beautiful woman in the world held at Mandalay Resort and Casino Las Vegas Nevada,USA. In boxing, Filipinos are known to be unbeatable but this time, a Mexican beauty reigned the stage! The 2009 Miss Universe from Venezuela Stephanie Fernandez crowned Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete as Miss Universe 2010! The rest of the lucky winners are:

1st runner-up - Miss Jamaica Yendi Phillipps

2nd runner-up - Miss Australia Jesinta Campbell

3rd runner-up - Miss Ukraine Anna Poslavska

Our very own, Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj got the last slot in final five.She definitely brought honor to us for doing her best to make it till the end. However, the 4th runner-up from Bicol gained positive and negative feedback from our fellowmen. Some people laugh and speculate the way she answered the question for her. But others just considered it as the English translation for Filipino expression which is " bonggang bongga!"Follow this link to see the video:Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj Top 5 Q&A

 photo courtesy of barriosiete

At this point, Venus' major, major words become a trending phrase in the country. Many people are imitating her lines and even in facebook people don't seem to forget what he had answered in the pageant.

Keep your head up Venus! We're proud of you! You're still our beauty queen for putting Philippines on top 5. After eleven years, a candidate from my country shone in the most prestigious beauty event of the world.If I were in her shoe, it wouldn't be easy to carry yourself in front of many people and stay confident all the time. It's really hard to hide your nervousness in front of a big crowd and that maybe the "major" reason why the Filipina beauty queen had chosen those words.I do believe that there's nobody perfect and along with our actions are people's endless criticisms.

Face to Face with VP Jojo Binay

It was my pleasure to give the vice president of my country a handshake. Hon. Jejomar Binay visited our village and I personally congratulated him for coming over and for giving us the good news. The main purpose of his visitation in Barangay Governor Paciano Bangoy was to give the land titles to different awardees in Davao City. It's an honor for our barangay that the said ceremony took place where I currently live.He was with his daughter and Joey de Venecia III.

The vice president is also the chairman of Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) giving him the right to distribute Certificates of Lot Allocation. One of his goals is to provide homeless people with houses.Today, many people in my city are happy that their lots are finally granted to them.

I do believe that we can have better Philippines with Pres. Noynoy Aquino along with Hon. Binay. The vice president said that now that he's officially elected he will keep on coming back to Davao to check on things that he had promise during the campaign period. I was surprised that there was no media around! Perhaps he doesn't like too much publicity. Well, you don't need the camera to let the people know what you do. There's a Great One above who knows the desires of our hearts. As I listened to him, I learned that his name JEJOMAR originated from JEsus,JOseph and MAry-the Holy Family in Christian belief. Hon. Binay's family is known to be dear with the Aquinos since the families have strong Catholic faith.

We never expected that he's gonna come in our place. We know how busy he is to have the second highest position in the Philippines. My mom thought a representative would come instead of him.It was humble of him to be there without the media chasing him like the usual scene of politicians.

The Vice President with mom and I

Kay Binay, gaganda ang buhay. Yan po ay di malayong mangyari kung tayo po mismo bilang mga Pilipino ang gagawa ng mga hakbang upang gumaan ang ating mga buhay. Public servants are there to help us but the great change must start in us as a citizen in this country.

Cory is to People Power

The burial of former President Corazon Aquino took place at Manila Memorial Cemetery few minutes ago. I didn't expect that it'll take this long! It only proves that many people love her. Many of us are saddened when she passed away.Filipinos are really mourning for the lost of an important person in the country. Anywhere around the Philippines, you can see a yellow ribbon tied everywhere, in private or public offices.It's our way of commemorating her significance when she ousted the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. It ended his regime and we regained the country's liberty.It was after Cory continued her husband's legacy and battle. Eventually, we won that battle by unity.Tie a yellow ribbon is a campaign to show our concern and care for her.

 President Corazon "Cory " Aquino is Philippines' symbol of freedom and democracy. She showed and gave us the true meaning of People Power. She encouraged the Filipinos to be united in order to get back the freedom of speech and press.Through her faith in God, courage and strong will Filipinos' nationalism was awaken!

Today is a special non-working holiday for Filipinos. Though I haven't track the entire events throughout the day I had the chance to see what's on TV.People's tributes and testimonies for the late president made me cry. I know how good she is but as I see her videos online I found myself with a teary eye. I admire her as a woman with real strength and genuine love for her fellows. She's worth remembering as Philippine president.

Rest in Peace President Cory.We love you and we'll never forget you and your remarkable contribution for the Philippines. You gave back our independence, made us become fighters and believers that the country can achieve change and sustainable development through faith and action.

Truly president Cory is associated with the power of people to end the leader's improper and abusive exercise of power.Thank you and we'll remember you forever.

New Philippines: Aquino-Binay Proclamation

Today is a historical day in the Philippines.We had just proclaimed our duly elected Vice President Jejomar Binay and President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.With the joint session of Senate of the Philippines and House of Representatives, the two were officially proclaimed earlier today.

It had been twelve (12) days of canvassing before the said proclamation. Despite the discrepancies of the first automated election in the Philippines, 2010 Election was done and result has been laid.

I’ve just seen the Aquin0-Binay Proclamation held at Batasan Pambansa through the television and it filled me with serenity and joy that these newly-elected leaders of my country will formally start their job and do what they have to as what they’ve promised during the campaign period.

Hon. Aquino III will be taking his place at Malacañang Palace on July 1.However, details on his inauguration is not yet finalized and announced.He is the first Philippine president who is a bachelor.Filipinos are speculating if we are expecting a presidential wedding in his term since he has got Shalani Soledad in his side to be give back the love that he’s giving her.

After being proclaimed, President Noynoy had his first press conference.In his interview he said the first step that should be done is identifying the problems to be able to come up with good solutions .For him, inventory is first needed in order to find suitable ways in resolving them.He added that he would look on the employment.He’s going to make sure that the rights of the Filipinos working overseas are protected and not violated. He doesn’t like the idea of venturing other countries because of force necessity.In addition, he was firm when he said he’s not living in Malacañang Palace. He’s still thinking and accepting suggestions on where he would reside.

One of the good things I like that the newest president had said is the idea of reconciliation and even working with his running mates which will eventually lead us all to our longed changed.According to him, he’s willing to work hand and hand with people with experties, knowledge, dedication and heart for people even if they had worked for the previous administration.In his statement, Aquino’s retaining the current PNP chief. The bottomline is he’s more on the interest of the majority rather than personal vengeance. The aim of his administration is to uplift the least Filipino people that has been the common propaganda of all the presidents. We will be as fulfilled as him when this priority is make into a reality in his six-year term.

I’m one of the millions who is proud of his political victory. We wouldn’t want to have a president like Erap or Villar. Though Gibo lost in the race Noynoy has Binay! My first choice didn’t make it but Aquino is our second bet and it’s not bad to have him. We know that he’d take care the legacy of his parents: the late Senator Benigno Aquino and former president Corazon Aquino. I hope and pray that we are really starting our way to real sustainable progress and development.It's good to hear that Kris promised to behave as well. She wishes not to give Noy stress and headache.

God bless the Philippines.

Manny’s Boxing Event to be aired in ABSCBN or GMA?

Few minutes ago a breaking news caught my attention.It was a special announcement made by Manny Pacquiao’s attorney with regards to the contract signed between his party and solar sports.Two days ago, People’s Champ made a sudden change about airing his upcoming fight with Hatton.He said that it’ll be aired in ABSCBN.He was firm that time while he was informing the media.We knew already that GMA will have a special coverage with it so it was kinda surprising.And now GMA  cleared the issue that it’ll still be the network which will bring the fight to every Filipino.In my opinion, it doesn’t matter which station will cover it.The most important thing is that the Filipinos will not going to miss the fight!

It was said that no one should disobey the agreement.Manny’s attorney made it clear to the public that it’s GMA who will be officially covering the fight.

Manny said sorry for the confusion and inconvenience brought by the announcements made by them.As of this moment, he is more focus with his training and hoping that Philippines will get the belt against England.

The fight between Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao” (Philippines) and Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton” (England) will be on May 2 at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas,Nevada.

Good luck to Manny- ang aming Pambansang Kamao!!!

PDA Season II Dream Night-Awards Night

Laarni Lozada had made it to become the newest PDA scholar graduating with the highest honor! She got a total of 651, 696 text votes or garnered 35.42% . The emotional Grand Star Dreamer was really crying and sobbing on stage! She was thanking all the people who made it possible; the abscbn Management, dream mentors, supporters, her parents and fellow scholars. She just received Php 1Million from abscbn,Php 1.5 Million worth of franchise from Crystal clear, a house and lot from Globe Asiatique plus a kitchen showcase from fujidenso, a laptop from Vio and an object from sony bravia! Attitude towards things can be change like being too emotional but talent is a gift that no nobody can copy or take it if it's truly born in you....that's what Laarni has. The mentors had offered their song and dance number namely; Headmaster Ryan Cayabyab, Over-all Voice Mentor Kitchy Molina, Media Performance Mentor Jose Javier Reyes, Academy In-Charge and Voice Mentor Monet Silvestre, and Diction/Speech Mentor Von Arroyo Direk Joey amazed me when he start rapping on stage!LOL It's like it was very unusual thing to see him that way! Below are the rest of the winners of PDA Season II Sixth Star Dreamer- Cris Pastor ( 36,487 votes or 1.97%) Fifthth Star Dreamer - Van Roxas (113,065 or 6.06% ) Fourth Star Dreamer - Liezel Garcia (247,346 or 13.36%) Third Star Star Dreamer -Miguel Mendoza (253,412 or 13.68%) Second Star Dreamer - Bugoy Drilon (549,760 or 29.70%) Bugoy sang our Elementary Graduation Song which is "Climb Every Mountain". I like the way he delivered it! The farmer's son was also emotional and he was still happy even if he wasn't the Grand Star Dreamer of this year's competition. His statement ended with a quote which says "It's free to dream, even if you are just an ordinary one" Congratulations to all scholars who dreamed big to reach for their stars!!!

PDA Grand Dream Night- Performance Night

Last night's "Grand Dream Night" wasn't that great for me. Perhaps I was just expecting something bigger than what I had seen. After 13 weeks of staying the academy, the top 6 scholars had finally showed their final best at Cuneta Astrodome. The PDA's Performance Night started with the opening performance of the 3 hosts; Nikki Gil, Tony Gonzaga and Billy Crawford followed by the expelled scholars'. Maestro Ryan Cayabyab was honored to announce and present the official graduates of Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2. A group performance followed. The first to perform were the boys. Personally speaking, I like the girl's group performance more. It was a sexy performance and the girls didn't look awkward.while delivering it.In other words, I wasn't impressed by the group performance which is compose of Van, Bugoy and Miguel. Before the individual moment of performances, 3 love couples did surprise the spectators. Sam Milby and Anne Curtis of "Dyosa" were there. The main casts of "Kahit Isang Saglit" who are Carmen Soo and Jericho Rosales did a song number also. Derek Ramsey and Miss Judy Ann Santos of "Humingi Ako sa Langit" had also perform their part with two other couples. Van Roxas was indeed a star of last night's gala. I agree with Direk Joey's comment on him. With regards to Liezel Garcia's performance, I'm gonna give her 7 or 8 out of 10 because I want her to bring out all the best that she has! When it comes to voice quality and musicality Liezel is good enough but her stage presence for me was kinda insufficient. She needs to have that plus factor or more additional moves to perfectly amaze the audience! I have no question in her voice. She's got unique and clean vocals. She could have done better... Talking about Cris Pastor and Miguel Mendoza's performances, it was fine. As expected Laarni Losada did gave a great solo number. She was trully blessed with the kind of voice that she has like what Maestro Ryan Cayabyab had told her. Bugoy Drilon's performance was also amazing as what teacher Kitchie was saying- Angels did bring him to the finals. It was just the first part of PDA Grand Dream Night. Tonight September 14 will be the most awaited part which is the Awards Night! Few more hours from now and we'll know who's gonna be the next one to follow the steps of Yeng Constantivo- PDA Season 1 Grand Star Dreamer. I'm certain that the top 6 are pretty excited to know who among them will have commercials, albums to release, international tour etc soon after the revelation of voting results! Before the program ended I noticed that Liezel, Cris and Yeng wore my top 3 fave colors during their last group intermission number- baby pink, aqua blue and purple!Yeng was in purple! I love what she was wearing last night!