BICOL: Naga City

Time and again, people use to pop this question at my face… hey, you seem to be enjoying your life at BICOL... I’ve heard ppl come back and say BICOL is a really cool place… I say, hell yeah… it is a nice place alright… there’s no traffic, the people are nice and that’s about it. YET, they don’t believe you and they go like… bullshit… there’s more to that (…thinking that its similar to any big city like Manila and Makati…)… well, here’s to prove all of you wrong:

1. The place is filled with padjaks, tricycle, jeepneys and there’s virtually no posh cars there… a VIOS is considered a posh car, like the one I am using.
2. The city itself is dead at 930pm, 10pm tops… streets will be empty, there’s no bar, no clubs,…etc
3. The city is at least 20 years behind Ipoh… yeah, Ipoh!!

Here’s some pictures to prove it!

One of the many Departmental stores in BICOL. You figure out the rest.

One of the main streets (high street) in Naga City where I live. See the traffic at rush hour?

Can you picture this city now? No? Main transportation mode are Jeepneys, Padjaks, Tricycle. No buses visible and cars are a rare sight.

Robertson mall. One of the biggest already.

E-Mall: The most modern facilitated departmental store in BICOL, at 4 storeys high, just right opposite my hotel, there isnt much to shout about.

One of the main venues at the centre of the city with a Welcome board by a local pharmacist.

Sichara Cinema... there's only two in BICOL. This one is the best. No TGV or Goldenscreens, or even Cineplex... only 3 times a day for each show, this is one of the classic cinemas likened to the golden era of the past whereby the movie ads are still painted. Nope, I have not been in it.

Naga City market

... and this is about it. The radius that covers the city centre is about 5-10km end to end. After the borders, its all greenfields with paddy or mountainous areas. Mabuhay BICOL.. or rather in Visayans... Dos Mabalos Bicol.

Anyone who still wishes to come, I will be more than happy to give you a tour of Naga City absolutely free of charge, and a half day tour will give you a complete and comprehensive information about BICOL... more or less.

What Is & What Not's... A bLoT iN mY BrAiNs...

I had a read through my blog recently which I started since 2002. Browsed through randomly and found a few articles that brings a chuckle or two…

I still remember more than one occasion (here, here and here) I complained that in Pakistan, people that slacks big time as though they are in slumberland because they are so fond of the phrase ‘I Don’t Know’. I used to get very agitated and had to educate them about finding out, so on and so forth.

Now, in the Philippines, I don’t have to worry about that no more, instead, I have to worry about their commitments because their national prided phrases are ‘No Problem Sir’, ‘Ok Sir’ and ‘Tomorrow Sir’ in all situations, but do they know that sometimes, tomorrow never comes???? Its truly an eye opener working with them actually.

The people in Pakistan is in slumberland waiting for snow to fall whilst the people in Philippines are experiencing snowfall without one. Ever wondered why these two countries are lacking behind? … and that… I would say is about 30 years behind Malaysia.

I am not saying Malaysia is good though… they are structurally developed in that sense, mentally… still some way to go, but national pride and focus is way way out! I mean, lets take into perspective what Malaysia offers or has:

1. National Car – Proton
2. National Airline – MAS
3. National Budget Airline – Air Asia
4. National Resources – Petroleum, Gas, Water, rubber, tin, palm oil, Buatan Malaysia products, etc
5. National Treasure – Tourism, people of different walks of life, size, age, creed, tolerance and free practice of religion, etc

With this, ever wondered why Malaysia is still struggling to meet ends meet? Why the people are still squabbling over petty issues? Racial slurs in this 21st century?? Power-mongering dictators? Power hungry senates? Why is Malaysia still struggling when we are a nation of oil producers? Why are we still importing rice when we have our northern corridor of Perlis and Kedah filled with paddy fields? Where is FELDA? After 50 years of independence and staying together, why are the different races still wanting to rid each other? Are we losing our heads already?

What I see is eventually, Malaysia will self destruct in their own hands if nothing is done.

As for me, I am stuck in values. 1/3 of my life has been spent abroad and I truly believe, Malaysia is still a wonderful place to be in but as the years go on, the percentage gets lower. I believe many others see it the same way and want out.

I rest my case as a concerned citizen…. Hmmphh… hey… why am I ending up with the political bullshit? As if we care…

Moments of Vulnerability

Ever been in this situation?

Your life slows down to a gradual pace, breathing heavily, flashbacks of clustered memories fills the air, you try to reach for them but it passes by so quickly you cannot grasp what is going on, you begin to feel that you are losing control of everything, you are completely drenched in sweat, its like a dream and you are unable to wake up to reality, its almost surreal, you begin to float in and out of dreams and reality, then, you try to comprehend what is going on, it scares the shit out of you, you scramble your way out of the seemingly endless thick clouds filled with vacuums of unsustainable 3 second clips of your lifetime’s past.

You feel dizzy like, with a million needles piercing through your thick membrane, and suddenly you are beamed into another perspective, you hear endless laughter all around you. Moments later, you subconsciously wake up to a sledgehammer hitting your brains out. Still in a daze, trying to figure out what the hell just happened. You look at the clock, 1 hour had only just passed and it’s not even midnight yet.

You drink a glass of water, trying to calm yourself down and you hit the sack again with a million questions still playing in your mind. You cannot stay awake because you are still floating in and out and your head is killing you. You change into a new pair of PJs and lay yourself down again on the bed, trying to keep your eyelids as tight as possible, and tell yourself its all just a dream, reassuring yourself that it is ok. Moments later, the whole thing repeats itself…

Have you ever been in this situation.....?

Typhoon Fengshen in Philippines

Typhoon 200806 (FENGSHEN)

Typhoon's Asian Name = FENGSHEN : God of wind [Chinese Translation]

Typhoon FENGSHEN was formed in the east of Mindanao Island and kept moving toward west-north-west, showing a track much closer to Philippines than the initial forecast of turning toward north. This typhoon has shown steady intensification since its birth, so islands that will be approached by the typhoon, namely Samar Island, Luzon Island (south), Catanduanes Island, will be affected by the typhoon. It seems that conditions for intensification is basically satisfied for this typhoon, but it is also possible that the land will give some impact on the intensification if the typhoon moves along the Philippine Islands.

My previous post at point number #5 reported on the typhoon. Latest tracker shows Manila was hit directly and the impact was deadly as the capital wasn't ready for it... OR, wasnt expecting it. My region in BICOL was spared the full force as it deviated course and headed straight towards Manila.

Satellite pictures showing the typhoon forming in the Philippines

The birth of the typhoon off the coast of Samar (click on pictures to enlarge)

Look at the typhoon's course which changed directions or deviated from BICOL (circled in RED). Thank God for that!

Lets just hope the forthcoming ones will deviate as well. Have to do my maths now so that when it comes, I will be in Manila... hahahah... will keep all updated. Ciaoooo

Much Ado About Nothing...

Many a times, I have opened up the webbie to post a thought or two, but in most times, there is always something else to do. Just a quick whiz through of what I have been up to since I last blogged:

1. Went back to Malaysia for a meager 6 days


2. Missed my May targets when I went back but I am hell as sure I wont miss my June targets, its smooth going at the moment


3. My closest ally, compatriot, Ang, is being transferred back to Msia in the middle of his project, which I am not so happy of with the style of management.


4. Went to a scuba diving resort in Philippines and had the most relaxing time ever… its much ado about nothing, really. It was just sitting down by the beach, taking pictures and reading a book


5. Typhoon Fengshen (translated into Chinese is God of Winds) just hit Philippines, which practically missed Bicol as it was heading towards the North West, hitting Manila the worst, and now another one heading towards the same path, Typhoon Frank. I am fine by the way as I can still blog. The only thing is, my sites are completely flooded for next month’s target which could be an issue, but not exactly a problem.


6. I received another summon for my car for speeding in Ipoh, the second time to be exact every time I am in another country. hahaha… ironic? No, it was just me. :-)


7. I am almost halfway through my ‘Blink’ book which I thought could have been finished much earlier


8. Euro 08 went by and I didn’t even notice. Its already almost the semi finals now and I just realized that France got knocked out, England wasn’t even part of the plan… hmmphh.. wonder what happened to Spain?


9. I just realized this year is Europe Capital of Culture for Liverpool. Think I won’t be able to make it back there as promised. Well, I still have another 5 months left to fulfill my promise… we’ll see.


10. I started to interview a few local engineers for my office in Naga


11. Been having a slight strong twitch to move on to another company soon. Dubai and SA in sights. These are the two regions which I have not been before.


12. I have not been in contact with my best mates back home for a good 4-5 months nearly… wonder how they are doing?


13. Planning trips to Macau, Bali, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand for a getaway.


14. I have yet to submit my expenses claim for over a month already… worth a few g’s already… but still manageable.


15. Suddenly thought of Europe and the path that I previously went through… how harmonious was it and how I wished to be there again.


16. Two close friends is seriously thinking of moving on from the current job. Hey… you have my support all the way…


17. I finished the pack of ‘Sak Ket Mah’ (a home delicacy… or more like a childhood favourite that I brought over to ensure I feel at home) I bought when I went back home.


18. I just realized also that politics in Malaysia is coming to a standstill and everyone is backstabbing each other… what a waste considering the diversity we have and how people can focus more on taking this advantage and leapfrog Malaysia into a more developed status.


19. Riise left Liverpool for another club. He was good and will be missed

Well, it’s raining out there… yet again,... it hasn’t stopped because of the typhoon but I truly love these moments, harmonious yet intriguing and serene.


Here are some of the pictures taken during my time off at Eagle's Point in Batangas, Philippines.

The figure in the picture was me holding my tripod, taken by Babu unconciously against a serene sunset backdrop with an ecosystem regenerated pool

Fishing boats returning to the pier during sunset

All in a day's work.....

It was sundown again...

Hope I have more time to write and post more pictures in the coming days or weeks. Missed writing…

Heart Is...

Hearty Paw

It's well known that Korean dramas or movies are known for its simplicity that draws you closer to your emotions. I have never fell for it.

Little did I know, stumbling upon this movie recently on Star Movie Asia when I was flipping through the channels, I actually went on to watch the entire plot. It wasnt any lovey dovey mushy love story but a simple but short story of a boy, his sister, and a dog. It was close to a tear jerker. Watch it to believe it. If you own a dog, it's more meaningful.

Watch the simple and funny preview.

All In a Days Work

All In a Day's Work

To be honest, it's not easy being in the region... what more with the region earning its nick as a notorious one. Hence, to go out to the sites isnt quite as easy as before anymore. I need to pack up my gear as well and all thanks to my driver cum bodyguard (ex Corporal), I have to practise army precautions all the time. :-) Stuff like the international codes for WHF-FM radios, etc, how to park the car in an emergency escape position, how to assess scary situations, how to carry, load and fire a gun, next up, armalites (yeehah!!)..... lets not get too excited over that... but yeah, that's basically it.

Yeap, that's my gear whenever I go out. Three cell phones, three walkies (one for bodyguard and the other two for subcon and engineers), extra batteries, mini torch light... yeah... some are strapped to my waist and the rest to my jacket.

Why the radio? In fact, many have taken swipe at this... hey, air con man, hey security... :-) it is funny some times... but it aint so funny on the field. I mean, no offence taken at those remarks because whenever I am in Manila, I carry them as well like how I carry them in Bicol. Supposedly, I dont need to when I am back in Manila but I have just gotten so used to it. It is essential in Bicol.

Recently, I had to add another cell phone. Dont ask me why. Its funny how telecoms work. I am building for Sun Celullar, hence, there wouldnt be any coverage for Sun although I have a SIM. Therefore, I have to use Globe and Smart to accomodate everyone because each operator has free minutes for calls to the same operator. Another phone would be my Malaysian roaming in case if a new job opportunity calls! hehehe...

Well... it's really all in a day's work... Ciao...

Part I: Bicol Captain

Part I: The Captain

They call me all sorts, boss, Ray, Raymond... but to them, and also to me, this is one of my best achievement and pride of them all... they call me the captain here.

Me, being known as a Liverpool fanatic, to whom some of my engineers are too, they label me as their captain, the one similar to the Kopite's favorite... Stevie G. To me, nothing can ever compare to that being nicked Captain. It is a great honor for me to be called that... and I was absolutely overwhelmed when one of my engineers gave me his favorite jersey with the name, Gerrard, at the back.

Its an honor to be named after the Liverpool captain, and the jersey means a lot to me as it is to you, thanks Panlop!

Part II: My Pride: Naga Office

Huawei Satellite Office: NAGA City

The first time I was chosen to lead in the region, I was skeptical. Didnt know what I was getting myself into, I ventured into a rebel infested region and told myself, this is what I am here for... the challenge. And 4 months later... this is the office that I have set up with my team, with my own effort, with only the 6 of us: Nonilo Robles, Panlop, Thanachat, Don Moralina, Joel Nallos, Jonathan Badong.

The Contract, The Keys, and the Compass... hmmm... why the compass huh?

The main door to the office with the Huawei logo, and the stairs leading up to the mezzanine.

As soon as you get to the mezzazine, there's the reception area, the restroom, a secluded area which is partitioned off by cabinets, the office of yours truly, and then the conference room towards the far right of the picture.

The secluded area, specially made table, sectioned off by a cabinet and a network map of the sites in Bicol.

The conference room with the chairs and white board

The fact is, the office is still at its infancy as there were many a times I just couldnt find time to bother about it. I bought everything you have just seen in those pictures. Actually, it still feels quite empty but I am slowly building it up, making it more comfortable and cosy. It feels like an office now, but, can be better.



However, this is still one of my best and its my pride, to be the first to set up an office for Huawei in this region. Now, many personnel from other projects are requesting to use the office. It really feels good to be honest and this is one of the best events that has capped my stay in BiCOL.

Part III: Mayon Volcano

Mayon Volcano, Albay, BICOL

Mayon Volcano, a super volcano likened to Mt. Pinatubo, still in its active and glory days, paints the landscape of BICOL from as far as IRIGA all the way through Camalig and Albay. The mere glimpse of it is simply breathtaking... if you are lucky enough to view its entire glory. At most times, it is not clearly visible due to the rain and fog but on sunny spells,... it takes your breath away.

A Piece of landmark, and beneath it, lies the town of Legaspi.

En route to the viewing point from the mid section, lies the usual intimidating vegetation that can never leave your memory

On most evenings when it turns foggy, the sight takes you to a 3 dimensional black and white backdrop that personifies its might and strength.

The eerie backdrop whispers in our ears, and the cold breeze sends a chilling note, as though telling us, the end is nigh...

Spewing ashes and sulphuric gases from its top, it has never failed to mesmerize locals and tourists alike

Vulnerable it may seem, locals tend to their daily chores hoping that, maybe, just maybe, they wont live to see the eruption in this lifetime.

Part IV: Quezon National Park

Quezon National Park

The Quezon National Forest Park is a national park in The Philippines. It is situated between the towns of Pagbilao, Padre Burgos and Atimonan, in the province of Quezon. The park covers the western end of the isthmus of Luzon.

The Tourism highway, known locally as the "Old Zigzag Road", passes through the middle of the forest park. This highway has many blind corners and hairpin turns, which are monitored by volunteer traffic directors. Buses and large trucks are not allowed, partially because of the steep grades. They are directed to use the "New Zigzag Road", which is part of the Maharlika National Highway, between western Atimonan and eastern Pagbilao.

Hundreds of flora and fauna species have been discovered here. This was where the Filipinos declared revolution against the Japanese on World War II, on Mount Mirador, village of Pinagbanderahan.

*taken from wikipedia

The park actually boasts many habitats and its quite serene to be in, however, it has been so badly maintained that there's virtually nothing to be mesmerized about.

Badly maintained signboards

The Quezon National Park was inaugurated in 1969

One barren patch in the lush green forest

There were some really fascinating sights though...

But apart from that... I would say, this can be a 'miss'.

Part V: Philippines Landmark

Philippines: Makati and Greater Manila

That's HW's other Satellite office right in the middle. Situated in Ortigas, it houses the DIGITEL project team.

Edsa Motorway. The route I once took last year everyday to the office Ortigas. It is usually jam packed. Fortunately when this picture was taken, it was on a Sunday.

One perspective of Makati city in daylight. Makati, the financial and business hub of Manila, is about 5km away and about 10 minutes without traffic. With traffic, it can take up to about 1 hour.

StarCity: About 15 minutes from Makati, located on reclaimed land, is the solution to mini Disneyland for the kids in Manila.

The city landscape at night. It reminds me of KL and how much, home is still, sweet home.

Part VI: Manukan Island, KK

Manukan Island, Kota Kinabalu

Far far away from Peninsular, and only a 10 minutes boat ride from Kota Kinabalu, is one of the most conserved aquatic life left in Malaysia. Famous more as one of the island hopping destinations in Sabah, its tranquility has not failed to live up to its expectations.

An island on its own, with one side of white sand beach and the other, rocky splendour facing the South China Sea.

The only jetty rooted on stilts where private ships dock to ferry tourists in and out of the island

Serenity, added with the clear blue skies, almost reflects upon the nomenclature of life, and calmness at its best.

Nightfall at Manukan

Replicating more of an isolated but romantic getaway, this island can only offer the stillness of life which will not disappoint.