The Need to Update

A month long hiatus... which meant that nothing big/blog worthy happened recently. On weekdays I just go to work, then on weekends -- rest. My life revolves around a PC nowadays. PC at work, then PC-ing again at home. Yep, it's a livable life but where's the fun in it?

I no longer know what to do with my blog. It's just fully loaded with cross-posts coming from my multiply account. At first, I wanted it to be some sort of a techie blog, or to write things about Japan. I guess I've lost that blogging impulse. I think I'd better do a photoblog instead, just post some shots, explain a bit about the subject then wait for the comments. haha, lazy. As if I have enough photos already. It may be because of the winter season that I haven't gone out much to shoot. Hopefully I'd get to be more enthusiastic with this hobby to fully motivate myself to go outside and enjoy the sunshine.

I thought blogging would be easier with a super fast connection, but it just led me to download and watch so many movies and series that it's basically what I do now. However, due to the recently concluded writers' strike, new episodes/seasons would come out earliest by midyear.

I guess what's available for me to watch now is American Idol. Aside from wanting Fil-Am Ramiele to win the competition (despite having fierce competitors), I love speculating on those who would be voted off soon basing from the judges' comments, popularity and the actual performances.

Continuing on with my personal update, the company retrieved back the PDA initially leased to me. Phone subscription assistance would still be provided at max 3Kyen per month, although I still have to get my own phone from now on. It's not a big deal for me to lose a phone since rarely do I give/receive a call, however it comes in handy during times when I go out and meet with other people/friends. I hope there are 1yen phone packages that would cost more or less 3Kyen per month and then include a nifty camera phone. If it wouldn't be a 1yen phone, then I have to buy a 3G/CDMA and openline capable one so that I can also use it in the Philippines. Any suggestions on what unit? Mobile service provider?

Also, thanks (or no thanks) to Cholle, I have set my eyes on these limited edition watches by Tokyoflash. I have always wanted to "think" or to be consciously aware while glancing on my watch. This was one reason why I use a 1 hour advanced watch. One "minor" reason was to fool other people. *heh heh*

Their designs give the person a distinct way to think everytime they want to know the time.


I'm quite happy that the Yen has been strong lately. Against the dollar, it has now reached the 100yen is to 1 USD. In effect, it has maintained it's strength against the Peso at about .39-.40 level. What I am not happy is the effect of the US economy on worldwide stocks. I have invested a significant amount in Philippine equities and now I have a paper loss of 20%. If only I could add to my portfolio while the NAVs are down so as to level down my losses, however I can only do that when I come home. Oh I wish it wouldn't go lower than -20%. If Yen:Peso would reach .50, I'd certainly be happy.

PSP vs. DS

I started planning on buying a game console 2 months ago as part of my having fun in Japan. I initially wanted to buy a Nintendo Wii because of its unique interactive gameplay (tennis! golf!) and also because it is relatively cheaper compared to rival Sony's PS3. However I realized that the Wii is more of a party console, something to play with your family and friends. Since it's just me and my flatmate here, I decided to go for a more personal console instead.

Today's portable systems seem to have significantly evolved from the former systems we had before (think: Brick games and Game&Watch during the early 90's). Portability would mean I can play anywhere inside and outside of the house; also, I can use it while on travel (trip to Tokyo coming from my place would take about an hour via train).

And so, a portable one would be a good buy for me; but, which one? At this point, I got stuck on choosing between Nintendo's DS and Sony's PSP. I'm not an impulsive buyer when it comes to electronic gadgets since these things easily depreciate and go obsolete. However, it would take forever for the 'perfect' product to come out. Everything has its pitfall. That is why it takes at least a month of 'research' before I buy a specific gadget. Another good reason for 'delaying' a purchase is to be able to buy it at the convenient price. Electronic products start off with a high price then settle lower according to market demand.

Sony PlayStation Portable Slim vs. Nintendo DS Lite:



VS.

(photos courtesy of wikipedia)

I have tried searching through the internet for answers regarding on which is the better portable console system. Consequently, all I got were mixed reviews. It's a draw based on my internet reads. To summarize, the major selling point of each system is between graphics and gameplay.

Hardware Comparisons:

CPU: (PSP)
- 32-bits MIPS32 R4k-based with FPU and VFPU (main processor)
- 32-bits MIPS32 R4k-based (for hardware multimedia decoding)
(both clocked at max 333Mhz)
CPU: (DS)
-ARM946E-S (main CPU) @67Mhz
-ARM7TDMI (coprocessor)@33Mhz
Memory:
(PSP)
- (main) 64MB
- (Embedded DRAM) 4MB
(DS)
- 4MB

Display:
(PSP)
- 4.3 inch, 16:9 Wide screen TFT LCD
-480 x 272 pixel, 16.7 million colors
(DS)
- 3inch , 0.24mm dot pitch, TFT color LCD screens
-256x192 pixel, 260,000 colors
-of the 2 screens, 1 is a touch screen

Obviously, the PSP wins in the hardware category delivering better graphics and multimedia support. Though the DS lacks in hardware power, it fights back with its unique gameplay through the use of two screens (DS originally meant dual-screen) wherein one is a touch screen. The DS packs with various software which widened its age market. In Japan, there are softwares that make your DS act like an electronic dictionary (Nihonggo), map finder, and various educational tools for the young population. Some even claim that they use it like a PDA.

Basically, the answer on which is the better console varies from person to person. It is good to ask for feedback from current owners but beware of fanboys (and girls) from their biased views. You can get the most balanced views from people who own both consoles but be sure to take note of their preferences because it might differ from yours.


Why I Chose the PSP Over the DS
If I haven't bought an electronic dictionary beforehand, I could have considered buying a DS instead. But still, DS is a toy. Whatever are its added capabilities it can never replace the real thing, a toy's a toy. I have been using my elec. dictionary during our weekly meetings (I need to decipher what they're saying), and imagine what I would look like if I bring in a DS instead. I already have a PDA phone (company issued) and PDA phone is also better than PDA toy.

From the start, I wanted to buy a game console and so it follows that I wanted to maximize game output. With PSP's superior hardware, I could get all the visual candy I want which is just next to PS2 level. Some games really need good graphics to bring out the beauty of the game (i.e. NBA) while others don't (puzzle games). Not to mention the PSP's video capabilities which is highlighted by its widescreen. It's a good way to view portable movies (also good for tv tuning) as compared to my 5th Generation Ipod Video. I recently saw a speaker set capable of mounting both PSP and Ipod Video. What a combo! I think I'm going to buy that thing (5K yen ~ Php2K @HardOff).

When it comes to software, I guess I do have to sacrifice some Mario and Pokemon, in exchange for PS titles like GTA and Tekken. I haven't owned any Playstation unit and so PSP is perfect for me (especially when it is modded, can play PSX games). I have noticed that PSP and DS games have the same price range (2Kyen-6Kyen) even when PSP has larger filesizes than DS'. Value for money, it's the PSP.


There are some distinct hardware specs that I also have to patronize in the PSP. For all those who took CoE113, they should be familiar with PSP's CPU which is MIPS-based. Our thesis project, which was the dual-core DLX microprocessor is also MIPS-based. The other thing I patronize is due to the PSP's LCD which was produced by Sharp. Specifically with Sharp's LCDs, they use color filters produced by Toppan -- and that's where I work now.

Of course there are dozens of hacks and mods for the PSP and DS in which I am not going to discuss here. But when you want to bring out the geek in you and tweak with the PSP, you can turn this gaming machine into a nifty linux machine complete with a keyboard. Well better if you get a smaller keyboard then your setup would look like the small laptops being sold commercially.



Again, the choice is yours. Both are light(PSP slim: 189g; DSLite:200g). If you're not too demanding on the graphical quality of some games, then perhaps the DS is for you. DS units are relatively cheaper (DS: 16200Yen ; PSP:19800Yen ~Php6200)The stylus format of the DS may give you a unique experience compared from the usual controller stick, although only a select few games are able to maximize its use.

Well, if money's not a problem for you, why not buy the 2 consoles and get the best of both worlds.

Mr. [o]Miyagi

Okay, this post shall be about omiyage (Jap term for pasalubong), and not about Mr. Miyagi (of The Karate Kid fame).

There is no finalized date yet of our departure here in Japan though tentatively it was set on the 28th. We're still waiting for announcements from our Director about our new apartment, since we will be transferring our things before going back home to the Philippines.

I can't wait, even hoping that our flight be moved earlier than Nov28 (while target return date remain the same or better if moved on a later date). I do wish that my 'vacation' in the Philippines could be stretched wider.

Being the typical balikbayan, one is expected to bring home some goodies coming from the foreign land. The more people who know about your trip, the more the demand of omiyage. Last Saturday, I went to Akihabara to buy some of the required pasalubongs. It's not exactly the perfect place to buy cultural omiyage in terms of prices. Akiba is popularly known as a major electronics district in the world, constantly flocked by so many foreigners and Japanese people alike that the created atmosphere is being taken advantage by the businessmen.

Aside from electronics, Akihabara is also known for being a melting pot for otaku culture (read: geeks/fanatics). Japan is famous for its anime and high tech gadgets, and Akihabara seem to have it all. Since I really was not prepared with a list of things to buy and of the people to give omiyage with, this was the place that first came to my mind because of its wide range of selection. I bought most of my omiyage at one of the Laox shops. They were really good items although I can sense that it's a bit overpriced. I wanted to buy the fushigi towel, it's a towel having a print of a lady in a kimono, wherein when heat is applied (example: hair blower), the kimono will vanish and so the lady would be on her birthday suit. Japanese are so cool. My frugal self told me not to buy it since I still have more spending to do.

The first time I went to Akiba, I went out of the JR train station through the Electronic Town exit, thereby walked only thru the Chuo dori (main avenue). This time, I tried the Showa Dori exit and for the first time, was able to look inside the huge Yodobashi Camera (store). [pic on right: Yodobashi Camera's facade]

One other reason why I chose to shop at Akihabara was to check out the DSLR cameras I plan on buying (Canon EOS 400D vs. Nikon D40x). I was able to compare prices of those being sold at Akky and Laox (2 famous Akiba Duty Free stores) with Yodobashi, and so far the latter sells the cheapest (plus the 10% point card). And so I've learned that you don't have to go to Akihabara to buy cheap electronic gadgets. Yodobashi, along with some other stores (e.g. BIC Camera, Kojima) have branches all over Japan.

And finally before I went home, I bought a Playstation Portable. I have thought of buying a game console ever since my first month here in Japan but I got stuck deciding between a Sony PSP or a Nintendo DS. I should have bought the DSLR before going home but because of the short stay in the Philippines, I chose a game console instead (it would benefit me more than using a camera in the Philippines --i.e. while waiting on queue in several government agencies).
I chose the PSP because:

• superior hardware than DS --> corresponds to superior graphics
  
• backwards compatibility with PS games (mod needed)
• a good sized screen --> I had tried watching on my ipod video. So small and uncomfortable to carry while watching (one hand). Wow factor for me with the PSP.
• The looks. The DS seemed like a Kid's toy.
• etc.

Uh oh... I think I'm attracting some PSP bashers out there, hehehehe ;) The above mentioned are true anyway and the battle between DS vs. PSP had been narrowed down to gameplay vs. graphics, and obviously I wanted the eye candy one.

By the way, I have done some random shopping regarding the omiyage as I also plan on doing some random giving, in a raffle sort of way. It's hard to give in to the specific requests of people (kimono$, hard-to-find items, japanese girl, etc). I've decided that a raffle would be a fun and fair thing to do.

For now, I'm not reserving any omiyage to specific friends. Anyone's eligible, but it's a first come first served basis, 'til stocks last. Of course priority would be given to those who I am able to meet. Tricky part is that my stay in the Philippines would be short and I may be in Baguio for some time or maybe busy processing my papers. And so I would prefer to give it away during meet ups with you guys. I don't have much time and have enough souvenirs to give for everybody. gomen ne. I hope you guys understand. :)

Sa mga mauubusan, don't worry, just setup your facebook accounts and I promise I'd send you gifts from there. ;)

I'm Going Home This December(!!!)...

... and back again.

My 3 months business trip here in Japan is finally nearing its end as my visa shall expire on the 2nd of December. My main assignment is to work under the client company. After our first week in Japan, we had relocated from Kanagawa prefecture (where our head office is located) to Saitama (client's location).

For these 2 months and running, we eat at the company canteen, wear the standard top-bottom uniform and report to work daily. Basically, our stay was like an immersion stage for us to get used to a Japanese company's way of life. Also, to observe and have an idea about our client company's operations. Within these 3 months, we are to be evaluated by the client company. Our tenure here in Japan is dependent on their decision about the finalization of the project agreement between them and our company.

And so, the good news is... we have been approved. Time lines had been set and the action at work shall at least commence next year, 2008. Because of this, I shall be transferred to the Japan side. My Certificate of Eligibility coming from the Japanese embassy had already been processed. This is to be used for my Engineer visa application.

I'm coming home to the Philippines to process the required papers (visa, poea, etc). The sad news is... my stay would not be fit enough for some kind of 'vacation'. The ideal date of my return here in Japan is on Dec 16. So that gives me barely 2 weeks stay in the Philippines.

Originally, we (together with my work partner) hoped that we could be saved by the Xmas break. Thinking that our impending return would be scheduled at the start of next year, meaning more time with family and friends in the Philippines.

I intend to go home to Baguio City. The last time I went home was in May, prior to my first day at work. 2 weeks 'vacation' wouldn't be enough not to mention the slow government processing (poea, owwa), and I might still be required to report to work daily at our Philippine office. That means my only chance of going home would be on a weekend. Once I go back to Japan, that would already be one year before I would be able to go home again. So there. I have to make the most out of my stay in the Philippines.

DesiScIoN

The bets are already in. No more need to stall. All you have to do is decide.

Hitori 「ひとり」

I’m bored. It just seems ironic that I do not enjoy life after college. Well, at least not yet. I do have n job offers to choose from, and that should have kept me busy. SMART wouldn’t allow me to start yet unless I am able to lower my hypertension. As for BiT Micro, well yeah I can start with them right away but I had to keep in mind that once I step in, there is no turning back (with their 4 year bond – not to mention dealing with the same ‘ol people). The other offers, they just come and go as I please.

So far, I had actually convinced myself to accept SMART’s offer. With their competitive compensation and benefits, I readily acknowledged the consequence of shifting from hardware to software programming. Despite my eagerness to start, I just can’t just because of a stupid blood pressure measurement. I am still young; I look and feel fit; I had good exercise through sports; and, I experience no complications whatsoever. But, my blood pressure is in the hypertensive region. So what?! I’m not dying, am I? If it’s because of the genes, then it should be nobody’s fault, right? Darn, this is really giving me a hard time.

Lowering of bp cannot be done overnight. I feel desperate. Not to mention the invitations from other companies, very tempting indeed. I have always kept my options open. If SMART is going to stall again just because of my bp, then let the others have me. It may be the rebel inside; but come to think of it God may have specific plans for me. SMART may not be it. I just hope I would be enlightened as soon as possible.

Everyday had been quite the same for me. Everytime I go out, I always end up in my laboratory in EEE (IML). I have been coming back to my ‘tambayan’ of at least 2 years. What’s nice about IML is that it is air-conditioned and you get to have free internet access. However, the people there have changed. It is now the ‘IML kids’ turn for the lab. Dean and Gian, being MS students of the lab, had been always there. At least I have somebody to talk to once in a while. It keeps me sane, even for a bit.

I do know some other people (brods, dormmates, orgmates, etc) in UP to hang out with but I guess I had already outgrown them. I am no longer a student. I just can’t bum myself with them. My ’01 batch mates already have a life of their own. We have already been separated upon graduation. Different jobs/ventures mean different companions. It is only during rare occasions such as outings that we are able to see each other again.

I don’t know what to do anymore. Nothing’s happening here in Manila. I think I would want to go back to Baguio. My father told me before that I could learn how to drive if I stay there for a vacation. I declined then because I thought I am going to start with a job already. I hope the offer still stands, if ever.

Blood pressure. Why is it high? Depressed? Maybe because I just feel alone. I’m getting the same feeling just as when I first came back from my Toshiba-Japan trip, waiting for the offer that did not come. Indeed, it is really hard to carry the burden all by yourself. One needs to be distracted, and that you cannot do on your own.

I am still in limbo. Still quite stuck in it. I want to move on with my life. So please help me God.

Graduation Day

April 7, 2001 – High School graduation. Graduated with honors, 3^rd in academic rankings for the special science curriculum of a private Catholic all-boys school in Baguio (famous alumni: Rustom Padilla; famous kickout: his brother, Robin). It was a great day as I stood proud and confident, and so were my parents who were seated on the row with other honor students’ parents.

Aside from being an honor student, I was awarded the Gerry Roxas Leadership. This was a surprise award since it was only given and announced on the graduation day itself. This award had been special to me since I had not expected it to come. It was the only leadership award given at my school (we have no PGMA leadership award), for years it had been always ‘issued’ to the graduating CAT corps commander. This time, it was given to an Eagle scout.

My father even became prouder since he too was a GRLA awardee. I remember when I was little, my father showed me his GRLA Award which was framed along with his high school photo. He got it for being a CAT officer, athlete and a scholar. I did not dream of following his footsteps. I wanted to create my own. Thus, the GRLA was never included in my high school goals. Heck, during first year I was even afraid of being booted out of the science curriculum (I think drafting scared me back then; but now, ES 1 is a piece of cake).

End of high school. Start of ‘new life’. Graduated top of the science class; 99^th percentile in NSAT; eligible for DOST scholarship (but did not accept). I seemed to be a very promising student indeed. At the end of the school year, people had already been calling me “UP Boy”. So far, I was one of two accepted at Diliman, coming along with the prestige of making it into a quota course which is Computer Engineering. The others got accepted at UP Baguio, while most of my schoolmates had not even tried taking the UPCAT. St. Louis University had been the top ‘default’ university to go into especially if your high school carries its same name and tradition.

April 21, 2007 – College graduation. Graduated (PERIOD). It was a great day as I stood proud and confident, and so were my uncle and mother who were seated in the back row of the theater, just like most of the UP graduates’ parents.

Being accepted at UP is one thing, graduating is another. I’ve met lots of new people – fellow students in UP. All had entered the university having the same buoyancy as I had. Everyone was good. Graduating from a special science curriculum (or its equivalent) seemed to be a minimum requirement. Valedictorians, honor students, GRLA awardees, math Olympiad quizzers/winners; you name it, they’re everywhere in UP.

6 years in college? Who cares. Besides, my year of delay was only eaten up by just 8 units. I had the time of my life. I am very much convinced myself that I did great, even without achieving the typical academic awards. Talking about resume, I may not have that line stating ‘cum laude’, but at least I’ve got lines referring to my organizations, experiences and other achievements.

I never had any regret in studying at UP. I made my stand before when my parents almost did not allow me to study in UP due to locality. Now, I proved them right. I think it was my very first major decision in life. And ever since I entered UP, I was already on my own; it’s my life anyway. My independence was just.

End of college. Start of ‘new life’ (again?). UP Engineering graduate. Maintaining to be the person I aim to be. Looking forward to the future.

===============================

My ‘Mom’ (grandmother M-side) was very eager to see me (and UP) at my graduation however she just had her biopsy and was advised by her doctor not to travel. Original plan was for her to hire a private van then tag along anyone in our family who would want to come for a round trip ride. Since my family is based in Benguet, only my mother came to attend my college graduation (along with my QC-based uncle).

We came to the UP theater at around exactly 730am. Just quite in the nick of call time. I guess I had missed a lot of EEE picture takings with my 2007 batch mates at the front lobby who may have been there as early as 630am. Inside the theater, I was at the aisle seat with unfamiliar people at my front and back. I had Josiah and Rose at my right to talk to though.

Right after the recognition rites, I was rushing outside to avail of my EXPO photo shots. Me and my mother had some pictures taken at some spots in UP (Bahay ng Alumni, Oblation etc.). I just feel bad, I think I only have a few pics all in all with other people (batchmates, bloc mates, teachers et al) at the college rites.

For lunch, my uncle brought us to ChinaTown restaurant located somewhere at Banaue, QC for an Eat-All-You-Can Buffet. The amazing thing was that you get over 70 items to choose from. I just don’t know if I was able to eat at least Php430 worth. Not to mention I had been warned about my blood pressure. Since I kind of missed vegetables, my favorite was the Taiwan Pechay. Ice cream and black gulaman came in last.

We don’t know where to go afterwards. Since it’s hot, we decided to cool off at the mall. Went to Mall of Asia and was finally able to try the IMAX theatres. Too bad, spiderman 3 was yet to be screened on May and there were just two choices left. T-Rex andSpace Station 3D. We watched the latter since it has the earliest start time. I’d say IMAX really redefines movie experiences. I love my mother’s reactions on some scenes inside the movie house. And those were just trailers. Space Station 3D was actually a space documentary narrated by Tom Cruise. As I had been watching the film, I remembered my childhood dream of being an astronaut. It came out like a Discovery channel feature, and soon I noticed that my mother and uncle dozed off a bit. The documentary ended in about 1 hour. There went our Php200. I’d say IMAX is great! But it requires cash. You have to watch action-packed films in order to enjoy those 3D views at its fullest.

After(College)Life

Schooling’s over, for now. Here I am currently waiting for certain events to settle down. I am in limbo right now and I do hope I could get out of it at the soonest possible time. I’m just taking my time, before actually reporting in for my very first job.

I’ve been quite a bum lately. Well, I had no other things to do except to lower my blood pressure ASAP. The job offers still keeps pouring in, however my current considerations still lie between BiT Micro and SMART. For now, it’s a 60-40 in favor of SMART. It is with SMART that I have to lower my bp after all. But who knows what would be my decision in the end; as of now, nothing is final yet.

I’m currently residing in Cubao, at my Uncle’s “Town house unit”. Once I get to work, I am surely going to find my own place to stay. Although it would cost me money, I really would like to take my independence back.

So far, I’ve contacted Yugs to be a potential housemate, though we really haven’t started finding a place to stay yet. Both of us would hopefully start working this May. Ideally, I want to be live near UP so that I can jog once in a while, play tennis at the courts and perhaps attend some UP events. However, if we are to work at the Fort area or at Ayala Avenue, it’s still quite a long ride for us to take. Therefore, I think it’s a bit impractical. So I guess halfway between Makati and UP would be a good place for us, hypothetically speaking.

So what to do while I’m in limbo? Hmm… well almost everyday after doing some minor errands, I drop by at IML to escape the summer heat. My main concern nowadays is on how to lower my BP, and for sure the heat is a High BP factor.

Recently, I bought myself a 30GB iPod video. This gadget is also part of my own therapy. In cases when I have no one to talk to, or when I want to concentrate or when alone (e.g. long commute, studying, waiting) I now have something with me; music(or a video) would fill the gap. I do become impatient when waiting for someone/something, just like when I am waiting for my turn in the medical exams at SMART.

Not because I was able to buy a laptop and an iPod that you can say I’m a rich kid. Mind you, these came from my Student Assistant salaries, and I bought these gadgets because I needed it. Of course, it’s also some sort of reward to myself.

After my graduation (which is this Sat), I have about a week left to pass the bp scale in order for me to be able to work starting May (1?). I do hope I could put an end to my dilemma, in order for me to finally move on to the next stage in my life.

Who's Stalling?

Just went back to PLDT MGO bldg today, for my follow-up med exam for SMART. Still, my blood pressure was still high. I'll be going back and forth till I am able to register a normal bp of at most 120/80. Damn. I'm experiencing difficulty here. :-(

The doctor asked me, "ano ba pinoproblema mo?". Ano nga ba? Di ko rin alam e. High blood pressure may be caused by depression. Am I depressed? Deep inside maybe? Darn. Weird. I think I'm getting more depressed as I could not pass that darn 'blood pressure exam'. I feel like I would overdose myself with Neoblocs, however I don't want to do an 'Anna Nicole Smith' stunt in life.

Thanks to JimNill, he sent an invitation for a VHDL/Verilog job in Japan. Wow. As I read the qualifications, it seemed that the job was made for me. haha. However, I do have second thoughts on joining a Jap company, since Jap employers are very much different. Aaargh. Dagdag sa dilemma.

Or maybe the Lord has been stalling me? If only I had passsed the med exam way back, I would be working for SMART. Is this a sign? Dilemma! aargh...

Quo Vadis?

I'd say I have been benefitting from the UP graduate trademark. Job offers have been continuously pouring in my way. However, here comes the dilemma on where should I go? It's not that I am complaining, it's just that I am already quite confused.

I have 2 standing job offers, and my supposed decision deadlines was last end of March. Every time they call, I ask for an extension. I know I can't do that indefinitely. I really have to decide once and for all.

There are new offers coming along the way, and this makes me more indecisive. Receiving calls from different companies had not been fun anymore. It makes me feel guilty. I tend to lie and leave the companies hanging, just to keep my options open. I still have interviews at different companies, and I don't know if I am still interested. I hope it would not backfire on me. I am even afraid that I might lose it all in the end. I am currently experienceing a stalemate.

Perhaps once I am able to pass the medical exam (and prove I am very fit to work), it would be easier to decide. The earliest date I could start working would be on the 16th. For now, I am just looking forward for the '01 outings. :D

Ja mata ne!

School Finale

Tonight is my last night at dorm. Packing has been more painful, since I have to pack things accumulated within 4 years. I think I'm going to discard some. Sometimes we try to be sentimental and keep some things, until we eventually realize that some are actually just trash. I remember when I was in first year, I brought home to Baguio my exam papers. Now, I realize that I didn't have to bring that much scrap paper.

Yep. It's final. I am going to graduate! woohoo! Even though I only had 3 units this semester, I still had a hard time with the subject. This was because the exams were too hard; actually it was ok but getting points was the hard part. Virtually it was like a zero-or-nothing type of exam. It was hard to mass up points. Good thing I did good in the MP part which comprised 30% of the grade.

The feeling of finally graduating is great! Priceless. 6 years. Not bad. My delayed year was just 8 units actually, and I had enjoyed a great deal with those extra time. I will graduate. Sweet.

If I were to turn back time and choose between graduating on time and now, I'd choose now. I am quite proud of myself, that even though I got delayed for one year, I was able to convert it into something productive to me. I guess the only thing that I lost during that one year was financial opportunity.

Because of my 1 year delay, I was able to prove and improve myself. This is a Recap:

I had the experience of working in a call center (even for just 10days). Bought my own laptop. I took Jap12-13 and a UC-Berkeley course in Computer Architecture as extra units during my first semester. My thesis group got a 1.25 grade, and we were 1 of 4 nominated for Best Paper at the 7th National ECE Conference. I passed the JLPT Level 4. I made more friends. I taught professors from different universities (UB, USC, CIT, MSU-IIT, etc.) how to use VHDL in FPGAs. I was able to 'enjoy' the job fairs re: applications to different companies. Got to play tennis. Got a sideline (IEEE SA). Got lots of pictures (inhinyero). 1 of 13 Filipinos sent to Japan for the Toshiba Final interviews (and I made it up to the very final interview, way past the laglagan phase). I now have a passport. I am very quite familiar with other places in Metro Manila such as Makati/Ayala. whoo! dami pa, di ko na ipopost ang iba!

If I had graduated on time, it would have meant that I was able to cramp all my subjects into those remaining sems. I would have rushed job applications and perhaps accept the very first offer that I could get. My resume would say that I had graduated on time. Period. I'm not a candidate for honors anyway.

Now, that I am graduating it is very nice to see and look back at what I had accomplished. I now had received a total of 3 job offers, and now 4 more applications are in active status.

Job Offers:
1. Astra Philippines Inc. - was invited for the job offer interview but I did not go. haha. During that time, I was already busy (and hopeful) with Toshiba. :D It's a software design company having the Japanese as its major clients.
2. BiT Micro Networks, Inc. - Subsidiary of the company in Silicon Valley. Sort of like a 'default' place for IMLers like me. Deals with Digital Design, I got the offer for ASIC Engineer which would deal in RTL design up to the testing and verification level.
3. SMART Communications, Inc. - Got it 1 day after the Toshiba results came out. I would be included in the Convergent Processes Group specifically in the Networks division. This would lead me to a shift from hardware programming to software.

Active:
1. Chevron - Bought up Caltex and UNOCAL. Just recently, they gave away free parker ballpens and 512MB thumb drives to invited IE students. Means: they have money. IT Career.
2. Canon Information Technologies, Inc. - Just had my HR interview today. Hardware Engineers deal mostly with Testing and Verification.
3. Intel Philippines - Got referred to by Ma'amTata. Position: Senior IC Layout Engineer. Inside info: will be trained outside, high salary grade. I just don't know how high is 'high' in Intel Philippines.
4. Soluziona - Status: no offer yet, but currently being considered. I had been invited to attend boot camps. One was the Informatica training (last week of March) and the next would be COBOL(starting april 23). Chance to work in Spain.

** If I had graduated on time, I would not have this kind of dilemma, choosing over what company I should go to. Not bad being a 'delayed' student ei? Before, I thought that not graduating on time was a sign of my misfortune. It just turns out that God has better plans for us. He gave me a chance to prove myself. Good thing I did not waste the opportunity He gave me. (Reflection: The Parable of the Talents Mat 25:14-30)

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Last day of dorm, last day of unlimited internet access. Hopefully, once I would be able to find a new place to stay and be quite stable about it, I'd subscribe for my very own internet access. But I know it would take some time. Expect for less posts these coming days. I may not be online most of the time, but I'm still just a text away.

Outing!

The Waiting

Just recently watched the Frank Miller film, 300, with Det-san and Tsen*-san. Actually, there were 2 Tsen*-sans because Fem* brought along her sister. This movie outing had been planned as a Jap12-13 class get-together wherein we also invited Weng-sensei. This is in celebration of our passing the JLPT Level 4 exam. The results of the exams were delivered to us individually, and as far as we know, everyone in our class passed. Save for Divina-san, she took the JLPT Level 3, and yes she passed. :D すごい　ね.

Unfortunately, it was only the 4 of us who showed up at SM North. Weng-sensei texted us that she'll be coming from Ortigas, and would definitely catch up. Jerick-sempai, Det & Fem's * Jap10-11 classmate who just came from a 1-year scholarship in Japan, had not shown up or rather couldn't be located because he doesn't have a cellphone.

While waiting for the others, we decided to eat our dinner at Mcdonald's. Feamor's sister was a bubbly type of person, and she had been revealing too much information about her sister already. They were like twins who are eternal companions from sleep to work (Both work at Net25). At one point, she asked to look at my palm, and she just gave an approving nod. I thought she was getting superstitous or something, until Feamor told me that she can 'see people'.

Apparently, Fem's* sister had a reading, and that she revealed it to me later. She told me that 'I am currently 'considering' someone right now though I really don't plan making any move. I should not worry, since someday I would meet/be with this SOMEONE (probably the person I am considering right now, or somebody else).

I was caught off-guard regarding her statements. I did not expect her to 'read' me, especially when the topic became something related with my nonexistent love life. What she said struck me since there is some truth in it. I've heard Feamor's testimonials about her sister's ability, and some of it were freaky. Her gift is not mainly involved in love matters. Some are serious ones. Most 'seers' would say vague things that apply to the general public, however in this case she got it right and is quite specific. At least she was right when she assumed that I am not seeing anyone right now or that I don't have any girlfriend. Most strangers would be surprised when they would learn that I don't have a gf and I actually never had one. Jeff even thinks I'm a chickboy/playboy.

I am in a waiting status. There is no need to rush. The woman whom I consider to court would be the woman I consider to marry some day. I don't need a gf just for the sake of companionship. I always observe people and their behaviour. I had seen many couples who had fun with each other in the beginning, but eventually split up in a couple of years; usually because they got bored or one of them found a bigger fish. I don't want to be one of those hypocrites pretending to be falling in love today, then wanting to fall out in due time.

I always think long term. Right now, I would like to focus on my career paths, to prepare for the future. Right now, I strive hard in improving myself. At this point in time, I wouldn't make any move on any woman I like. Not because I like her means that I need her (thus, must have her). I still have to establish myself. I may be able to offer her fun and laughter today, but someday it's just not enough. Reality will eventually sink in.

If ever I'm going to court a woman, most probably we already know each other. My idea of courtship starts when the intent had been made known. There should be no more major convincing on my part; by then, she should have known me enough and would be able to gauge how worthy I am for her. There should be no need for me to put my best foot forward since I want her to evaluate me based on who I am and not on what I can be (since it can only be temporary). I could never see myself courting a woman I have barely known. I am no Johnny Bravo.

This post could also be the ultimate answer to the questions people usually ask to me on why I don't have/ never had a gf. Perhaps I just believe in soul mates. If people are meant to be, then they are meant to be. Tsen*-san's (sister) gift did not really show me specifically that something will happen, but it did help me realize what kind of person I am and my way of thinking.

On who could be this someone I am waiting for, I really don't know. I am just hoping for the best.

Opportunity Awaits

The results for the Toshiba-Japan final interview had been released yesterday. We were all contacted via email; unfortunately, I am not going to be offered a job. I was kind of hopeful of being considered because my final interview went well. However, there may be other factors to consider why I am no longer chosen. I am still waiting for Jie Cui's reply if she got accepted. But basing on our respective interviews, I knew that mine was better. However, there were hints that the business unit we were applying at didn't necessarily need to open slots.

I've always wanted myself to prepare for the worst to come. Based on experience, I had better results when I didn't expect much on 'winning'. I really thought that Toshiba is the opportunity I have been waiting for. Everything seemed to fall into place. Even when I got back home, I just received my JLPT level 4 certification.

The Japan experience was really something I did not expect to happen in my life. Who would've thought that I would someday be able to make use of my knowledge in Nihonggo. One of my personal trademarks is for having a 1-hour advance configured watch. And Japan is notably 1 hour advanced from the Philippines. So when I got there, no need to reconfigure!

In one of our essays at the Toshiba interviews, there was this question, "What is a happy moment for you? Describe one happy moment." My specific example was the whole Toshiba-Japan excursion. No one can blame me: It was my first time to ride a plane. It's an international trip to Japan, a country I admire. Ideal job. Both me and my mom came home at the same time; even though we came from different places. How common is that?

I may not have made it for the job offer, but still I am happy for those who passed. Last year, 3 were offered a job; however, only 1 pushed through. Hopefully this year, all 3 would accept the job offer.

Congratulations to JmerConcepcion (MatE) and MichelleOngkingco (CS), both are from UP. Congratulations also to Wena from Ateneo, who really was the unanimous choice under the Industrial Systems of Toshiba. I'm happy I've met new friends through these interviews.

And I quote,

“When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” - Alexander Graham Bell

Moving on...

I Still Don't Have a Passport!

Inasmuch as I would like to celebrate my recent inclusion in the Toshiba lineup, I am going to rant my dismay over Philippine Agencies that are involved in my much dreaded passport application.

Where do we apply for Philippine passports? The answer is in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) office located along Roxas blvd., Pasay City. For starters, beware of those damned fixers in the streets, right before you enter the DFA compound. These sonuvabitches are disguised as DFA helpers, who would 'assist' you at the start of your journey.

These fixers would claim that your passport ID isn't right, then would lead you into having your photo taken at their studio. It's really very insulting to see people trying to dupe fellow Filipinos for the sake of business.

Ok, so for my first day at DFA, I was able to pass by windows A and B for records verification, though I was referred to the Passport Directors' office because I was listed among the DOST scholars (I DID NOT avail DOST scholarship). Since I don't have the original certification that I'm not a scholar (My brother only sent me a photocopied version!), I had to go back on a separate day, to bring that original document.

Today was my 2nd day at DFA, and I was able to fix my DOST problem in a breeze. I am like a seasoned applicant as I already knew where and what to do at DFA. I've seen SheilaBaticulon (one of my toshiba companions) and gave her instructions on what to do because she seemed lost at first.

As soon as I've reached the processing section, there was another line for another records verification, and I got blocked out because of the birth certificate I am submitting. They claim that my BC is not a valid one because it does not conform to their NSO standards. This shocked me because I just got my BC at NSO East Avenue only last May! I had argued with the supervisor lady until she just referred me back to the Passport Director (again!).

Being referred to the passport director automatically charges you of 2 hours in waiting. Actually, this made my stay at the DFA dreadful. Imagine, I went to the Passport Director's office thrice already! I have to go back there again once I get a new copy of my birth certificate.

I got stucked not getting my passport because of stupid reasons, and for these reasons it is clearly not my fault. First of all, I was able to fix my DOST scholarship status (wherein I am NOT a scholar!) through the NBI last May (when I applied for my NBI clearance). I should not have done it again at the DFA! These government agencies should have some connection of some sort. I should have been cleared automatically. Next, I had applied and paid for a Birth Certificate at the NSO East Avenue last May (too!). When it came to DFA, they even dare say that it is not an NSO document. WTF?!

I guess you guys already have an idea on how the Philippine system sucks right now. Going to the DFA is not an easy thing for me to do. I have to commute all the way from QC. Instead of focusing on my studies and projects prior to my business trip, I am stuck at DFA worrying if ever I could get my passport done as soon as possible. Toshiba would not wait for me to finish my papers. I'm not wasting this golden opportunity just because of a stupid system.

Tomorrow, I shall go back at DFA and apply for a new BC at the nearby NSO office. I hope I could get the accepted BC on the same day, in order to finally finish everything.

So help me God.

Observe Proper Netiquette

Ever since I was a kid, I was guided by my father in observing simple yet proper etiquette. Observing etiquette instills discipline and considerateness in a person, most especially to a child. I would define etiquette as the observance of doing the right thing at the right occasion/place; to give due respect towards the people involved.

I am a member of numerous e-groups and forum sites. I am also a moderator of some of these groups. Over these past few months, too many people had been fighting in these portals, arguing over posts that should have not been there. I would enumerate some of the known cases of irritation among members:

(a) Excessive and unnecessary posting in mailing groups - Mailing lists are formed for proper information dissemination among members. It should not be something to be sort of a chatroom. Comments and replies (the one-liner replies such as "hahaha") just contribute in the congestion of other people's mailboxes. (good thing there is Gmail for me)

(b) Out of Topic Postings - In the case of the 2 groups that I moderate (i2006 and ESEF), some people just want to get a free plug of their organization's activities into a group's goldmine of target audiences. As I repeat, the group was formed for a purpose; thus, when a student sent a "Pang modelo ba ang beauty mo?" ad in an "Engineering Entrepreneurship" group, it really triggered the ire of a Physics professor - member in the group. To think the girl even had the guts to be "mad" after being reprimanded by one of the mods...

(c) Flooding - in public posting groups such as the bulletin in Friendster, some people just have the knack of wanting to get noticed. Multiple posting of a SINGLE message gets to flood the whole bulletin. Too bad, some people also use friendster bulletins for announcements such as Alumni homecoming et al...

(d) Spoilers*** - When you say she/he is a Harry Potter Book Fan, the Fan means FANATIC. They can kill if you spoil them... so beware.




It's just simple. In a moviehouse, it's just like turning off your cellphones, being quiet and not resting your feet on other people's head rests. You don't want someone wiping his/her snot on you right? Now that's what you call etiquette.

Status Messages

Do you YM? (Do you use yahoo messenger?) What's your status? Available? Yeah, me too! (No, not that...)

Status Messages feature is one of the best part in using a YM. Being infinitely online (as my room mate is scarcely present - supposedly we share the same line), my status messages tells all the people who have me in their list about what I'm currently doing, or feeling.

For the past weeks, I had been busy; thus, my status always say that I'm studying this and that... but actually not! When I meet classmates before an exam, they seem to expect from me that I had studied. It is because they saw my status with the name of our subject with "studying" attached to it. Behind the "serious" status message, I just really waste time reading manga, surfing the net or maybe sleeping! The status message I usually post is an act of a reminder that I should be doing it. To no avail, it fails.

Sometimes, status messages is a way into bragging something you have or actually doing. In the meantime, reading other people's status messages are also usually entertaining and interesting. Some may go mushy, some may sound busy, while some have no sense at all. It is also one way of looking into their personality.

So, what does your status tell? (It's too complicated - hahaha taken from friendster. What kind of status is that anyway?)

Death of a Statesman

Thanks for the weekend, I had the luxury to check the net again after a long and still unfinished business with VHDL programming. In as much as I would like to blog about gEEEky stuffs, I can't help but to give some space for my favorite politician.

Former Senator Raul Roco recently passed away 9:16am, yesterday. Sad but true. I first saw this in one of Rechie's friendster bulletin posts and had verified it through inq7.

Roco always stand and speak with dignity. He is the most respectable politician I could think of. As of this moment, I could not think of any one else who could be "next" as my new favorite. The politicians we see today all seem to be tainted. I remember the time when Gloria was well-loved that she topped the senatorial elections. Now, look at her scrambling at the tip of her reign.

Roco should have been the next president. In the first months of candidacy filing, he was a prominent figure as his opponents are yet undecided to run. The blueprints of his reforms had been set. He was very much ready to serve.

A characteristic of the opposition was that they rely too much on popularity in order to win. FPJ did not want to be President, yet he got flattered by his fans' clamor for him to run. Gloria promised not to run, but she wanted to make her father proud by being president-elect. Eventually, the votes against the popular was divided. Gloria gained Roco's votes as some doubted on his winnability against an actor. Gloria being the lesser evil. Another batch of votes wasted for such lame reasoning.

Now, there seems to be a trend about Gloria's presidential opponents. After FPJ, next was Roco. Go figure. Is this God's way of saying Gloria deserved the position? Or does it just mean that Ping Lacson is next to lay down in a funeral bed?

Anyway, to Mr. Raul Roco, may you rest in peace. In Japanese culture, one can say that "he died a good death". The Philippines need people like him. Badly.