We Still Believe

Just a tough week for Philippine Sports – we had Manny Pacquiao knocked out by Juan Manuel Marquez, and now a heartbreaking loss by the Azkals on the second leg of that Semi-Final match/duel between the Philippines and the Singapore (Lion Xi).

I’ve recently posted an article about the Pacman defeat, and now it’s time for me to blog about my thoughts on our beloved Azkals.

Football is never an easy sport; I’m not saying that there is an easy sport. With football, stamina is tested, teamwork, decisions, proper executions above others. Azkals, a monicker for the Philippine Football Team, has been one of the most respected teams all-over southeast Asia. This, in fact, was not true many years ago. The team had been defeated convincingly by many other teams years ago. The Philippines was never a powerhouse on football back then. But recently, because of the hard work of the guys that stayed with the team, the football in the Philippines had gone mainstream and the rest is history.

Many issues covered the team – from the nationality to scandals. These things, left a bad mark for the football team. Some people are saying that, “Hey yah, it was named Azkals because of those dog-like behaviors of the players”, which probably, may be true. Why? Because dogs are lovers and loyal, and as a team, they’ve been playing their hearts out for the Philippine flag. So why hate?

So near yet so far. – Probably the theme for the Azkals on this AFF Suzuki Cup. Nothing to be ashamed of. The Azkals did great, tho they failed to finish the plays that matter the most. Well, that has been a problem for all of us – from personal experience.

Enough with the mourn and it’s now time to think positive. We still have the AFC Challenge Cup and I know the team would be better. If Shrocke and Etheridge would be available, then that would be fantastic; but, I’m not saying that Ed Sacapano is a bad goalkeeper. NO, he was solid out there protecting the goal – And I know, that he will continue to be.

GOOD THING: The team, as I’ve said, is improving – with promising players like Raichelt, we’re on the right track.

WHAT WE NEED TO WORK ON: The chemistry is still an issue. You can easily point that out on crosses and set plays. It’s just obvious that guys weren’t able to communicate on final/crucial passes. Other than that, we have all the talents that we need.

I know that there is more to come for the Azkals. For us fans, let’s just stay there. Let’s support the Azkals until the end.

P.S.

Tho it has been a sad week for Philippine Sports, we should still be proud of our athletes. Win or Lose, we’re behind them. Azkals, Pacquiao and other Boxers, Gilas, and to all our other athletes, we’re behind you for we still believe.

Manny Pacquiao: End of an Era?

I don’t know how to start this post. I’m so emotional right now. But no, I’m not crying – Jinkee is. And she has all the rights in the world to do so. Back off haters.

Manny Pacquiao, the future Hall of Famer, came into the ring wearing a smile in his face. You can see his confidence and eagerness to showcase his greatness against a long-time rival in Juan Manuel Marquez. The first round was alright – no highlights to be shown on tomorrow’s newspapers – but then the next rounds came and Pacquiao, unfortunately, received a powerful punch in the face from Marquez that made him sit on the floor for 5 secs. That alone, made me feel very anxious. I’m like, what Pacquiao? Come on!

So I was right, Pacquiao would revenge and would be more eager than ever – for he punched from left to right until JuanMa was cornered and eventually was down for the count for some time. That made everything even. I was sitting, watching, observing, and saying that the fight would be a great show – with both fighters willing to give it all to prove all them haters wrong; and to show who’s really the stronger boxer between them.

And so the 6th Round came, with all these nerves inside me I was very confident that Manny would survive this until the last second. The bell was about to ring when Manny received that amazing blow to the chin from Juan Manuel Marquez. No counts needed. No confirmation was required. Pacquiao was down – down and looking bad. He fell like he was shot by a gun from the back. I was shocked, stunned and crying inside at the same time. What happened? He was saved by the bell, right? Unfortunately no, he can’t get up. His eyes were closed. I can see Jinkee from the stands trying to reach his husband – that alone, is a heartbreaker.

Pacquiao, the man that we nicknamed “PacMan”, has shown enough and has proven many things already. He brought glory to the Philippines for so many years now. All those championships that he offered to the Filipinos – all of them are treasures. It’s not a shame to see Pacquiao out there in Las Vegas, Nevada down and almost dying. IT’S NOT. Maybe, I thought, it’s just a message that Manny should think twice now. Is he still that strong to compete against the others? Probably not today, for Marquez was the stronger man.

I think Pacquiao – Marquez V would not be necessary. They’ve shown enough and I know boxing fans would like to move on from the rivalry – which is probably one of the greatest rivalries of all time.

Now is Pacquiao’s time to fall, to fail and to be defeated. He’s been up there for so long now. He’s just human – he’s not a boxing God or whatever. Overconfidence may have eaten him or whatever. It’s just that, maybe his era has ended – and another would start for our Filipino boxers in the name of Nonito Donaire or the others. Just maybe.

No matter what, I’m still proud of what Manny Pacquiao has achieved. From rugs to riches – from a nobody to somebody. He’s such an inspiration.

I support Filipino athletes. I support Philippine sports. Win or Lose, I’m still a Filipino – I’m still a supporter.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Manny Pacquiao, one of the greatest boxers of all time – a true Filipino warrior.

Azkals, Back to the Semis

“Oh, wait, wait, what a beautiful run. GOAL!”

That was just one of the lines that I’ve been shouting since the start of the match. So, yes, I’m not a fan of… those who are not fans of Philippine football. Come on people, believe!

The start for the Azkals on this AFF Suzuki Cup was not that great. Let’s take a time travel. Back on that Thailand – Philippines match, Day One of the cup, the Azkals played with connection for the first 20 minutes. But, unfortunately, unmarked guys made their goals. That’s drastic, considering how the Philippine Azkals have been playing since the Friendly matches. We ended Day one by losing to the physical plays of the Thais, 2 – 1. That one goal by the way, was from a ground cross/pass to Mulders. That goal was made on the second half. At least, after that goal, we knew that we had something within the team. And so, we looked forward to the second game.

Second game, Day Two, against the scary team of Vietnam. I was so happy back then on how we passed the ball / how the midfielders controlled the ball that created that much chances, unfortunately, the finishing was not there for us during the first half. So the subs came in, Guirado, Caligdong and Angeles. Fresh legs ran the floor and made Weiss smile from the stands. Weiss, if you guys can still remember, was ejected because of that act – which was not that proper at all. Forget that, Guirado was so active during that match. One, two dribbles and a wonderful pass to the running Chieffy Caligdong. The Captain with the first touch and a dribble and boom, a fantastic goal! Oh how picture perfect that goal is! So we won that game, 1 – 0. Thanks to that save by THE ED SAcapano (and his friend, crossbar)!

That was the motivation that the Azkals needed. Now all that we need is a win on Day Three – the final day of the group stages.

Against Myanmar, we noticed the fast-paced match that the Burmese wanted. The first half was entertaining but not that exciting. No goals to tell. No goals to seal the deal for the Filipinos. Second Half, the Azkals made runs and crosses. Before even the match started, I predicted a goal from Phil Younghusband. Phil is too good of a striker to have no goals at all. Come on, once and for all, he’s Phil! So his shots during the First half were on target. Wow, powerful and accurate shots! From there, I was so sure that Phil would make a goal or two – and so he did. A first touch from the right side and a kick right through the left corner of the goal – a perfect goal that two goalkeepers won’t even save! That removed the pressure out of my mind, honestly. Thanks to the active plays of Guirado, De Jong, De Murga and others. Guirado, he’d been playing fantastic football since Day Two – the same physical and speedy player. Then the officials announced the 5 minute injury time – sorry Myanmar, Guirado just made that look easy. One on one with the Goalkeeper, an accurate kick was all that needed. There you go! A shout from me and a call for full time. Great job!

With these wins, we’re now going to the Semi-Finals. Welcome, Philippine Azkals! Welcome to Manila, AFF Suzuki Cup! Let’s get the trophy once and for all. BELIEVE!

Disneyland in the Philippines[?]

“Fellow Filipinos, I’d like to present to you the best theme park in the world, DISNEYLAND!” - First District Rep. Carmelo “Tarzan” Lazatin (with matching “The Disney Song” by Tanya Markova as his background music. First of all, I don’t know if I’ve remembered the title of that song correctly. Second, I hope Jessica Sanchez would still stay in the competition after tomorrow’s double elimination. I don’t know about that second statement.)

What are the PROS and CONS of this “planned” establishment of Disneyland then? I think the intelligent people from my country can answer your question/s. They are calling each other morons and whatsoever just so they can be retweeted by their followers. At first, I thought this news was a joke. But then I saw the Business Mirror article saying that this said Representative sent a request letter to the CEO of Walt Disney Co, saying that Clark, Pampanga is a nice place for that said theme park. Okay, let’s go back to the tweets, many are saying that this is not right because the Philippine Government should consider feeding their hungry citizens first. Yeah, I guess they’re right and I think their nationality could never be denied. Then I saw someone who tweeted that this would create many job opportunities for starving Filipinos to try! Oh, How I wish they would not bring foreign performers with them! And then I tweeted this:  “A possible establishment of “Disneyland” in the Philippines could mean “GOODBYE” to our very own Enchanted Kingdom and STAR City.” and then someone replied this: “Each theme park is unique. Pag may SM wala na ba yung Robisons? ” and then I replied this: Uh, no, I just visit my Twitter account to know how angry I am as of this moment. Just kidding.

Yes, the business could open up many jobs for our fellow countrymen! Imagine, 2000+ Filipinos could land a job on this, which is a positive thing for me. But no one can deny that this could mean, as I’ve said, goodbye to our old theme parks. You know why? Because MAYBE, most people would now entertain the new theme park compared to the old ones. I’m sure you guys have been in the same destination/s every summer/Christmas vacation. So this Disneyland would bring something new to the eye, and to our pockets/wallets. On the other side of the note, if Disneyland would price their tickets to a thousand plus, I guess Enchanted Kingdom and Star City would have a chance to live longer than expected! Competition would be nice, but not against this international giant who dominated the theme park industry.

Again, this is a private business and all the money would come from the said Company. All the money, including the money for the under-the-table  token for the politicians. Okay enough, I would like to get your opinions, guys.

Do you really want to have a DISNEYLAND here in the Philippines? 

Me? I’d rather go Tweeting.

Leave a COMMENT!

A Man Named Jose Rizal

Dr. Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda, widely known as Jose Rizal, is the greatest Malayan of all-time. He’s known for being the national hero of the Philippines. A man more than just a name, a street, a school, or a hospital – Jose Rizal is the real pundit and will always be remembered.

The 19th day of June 1861 was the day he was born; the day that must be remembered for a man was born to shape the history of the Philippines. After some years of fighting the Spaniards using his pen and paper, he was eventually killed in Bagumbayan. But the mission of Rizal was clear – he will ignite the Filipinos and let them fight for their own freedom. And yes, he was right through all these times; indeed, he is the heart of all Filipinos during those times.

A doctor, a scientist , a philosopher and an educator – those were just some of the faces of Dr. Rizal. Surely, a man to be admired by all people. Maybe that’s why he has so many “women” in his life. Let’s not go any further than that.

He died on the 30th of December 1896. And yes, he almost celebrated the New Year’s Eve. So now, we’re into that date and we must remember all the heroic efforts that Rizal made. Let’s not forget all the teachings and all the courage that Rizal has given to us. Let us also remember that Rizal thought us the importance of freedom – so let’s fight for it until we can. Fighting does not mean killing and hurting others by physical means, but instead using your own self and try to express what you feel. Be the protester of all the wrong things that you see, don’t forget that you’re not just fighting for your rights, but also fighting for others. Let us remember that we all have a little Rizal in our hearts. Let us keep that spirit alive and give importance to what Rizal gave us.

Many are asking for another Rizal, but they don’t know that they can be Rizal in their own little ways. So the day has come and I hope Rizal would always be remembered.

I’m just one of Rizal’s student, and I will always be. And I want to take a bow and give all my respect to Rizal. The real pundit is Rizal, and you’ll always be my hero, our hero.

All photo credits go to their respectful owner/s. 

The Night Before Christmas

I woke up 3 PM this day for a reason that I finished a game last night. As I stepped outside my room, I noticed that my family was not in our house. So I figured out that maybe they’re going for a last-minute preparation for tonight’s Noche Buena. We’ve been practicing this celebration ever since I was born and you know, I’m happy to have this kind of gathering.

It’s 8 PM here and the neighborhood is busy cooking all their goodies. I decided to step out of the celebration just to write this short post. I think I’m in need to think of some things that go beyond the meaning of Christmas.

What’s Christmas for you then? All our lives we’ve been thinking that Christmas is all about the birthday of Jesus. Yeah right, but are we putting the sense in our hearts? Aren’t we being ignorant to ourselves for just spending all our money for things that we don’t really need? It’s sad to see people praising Santa more than Jesus. It’s His birthday, this one is for him.

Now let me share something, last week I was in one of the most richest landmarks here in the Philippines, it’s called the Resorts World Manila. I enjoyed that stay because of the concert and the fine dining. So I felt the fulfillment of having “enough” in life to be able to afford to go there. I’m not rich or anything, my parents just wanted me to experience things that others do. So enough of that. As we were on our way home, I got to see this poor place where settlers have no decent clothes. I think, and then I realized that this should not look like this. The place is about a hundred meters away from where I got from. I know they’re happy, I can see it. Kids are enjoying the time with their parents and parents are having fun too. You can see the satisfaction in their faces. That moment, I asked myself, “What if you’re the one who had the money and all that, would you help them?”. Well yes of course, I experienced the hardness of life. I experienced being called to the office because of the unpaid balance, that was then. I know what I’ve been through is nothing compared to what they’re going through now, and that’s what made me conclude that I’m willing to help them if I can. I saw the two faces of a nation. I don’t know who’s lucky or not, but I saw it.

After that experience, I then came to realize that Christmas is getting near and some families are there sleeping because they don’t have enough money to buy foods for Noche Buena. For some, Christmas is just an ordinary day. It’s sad though, even though I know that Christmas is not all about the foods and all the stuff in the stores. How I wish I can give them groceries and goods to eat. I want them to experience the spirit of Christmas.

I said spirit of Christmas, now I’m sure you’re thinking about foods and materials but no, I mean the spirit of giving and receiving. Giving to your extent and receiving a thing with all of your heart. Isn’t it all about it? Sharing and giving love to each other? Don’t forget to forgive.

Now I’m sure you’re on your way to cook/eat some foods out there. Go ahead, nothing’s stopping you. Enjoy the night. But remember to be kind tomorrow and through the rest of your lives. They say that Christmas is everyday so, just do stuff that would help others. Tomorrow, Ninong and Ninangs, don’t forget to give your little ones some love. Well how I wish some of the kids out there still know what Christmas still means.

That’s it, I’m getting hungry already, I think I’m in need to get some foods. So yeah, if you need some pamasko, just go here. No I’m just kidding. Let us all eat well and remember to greet Jesus Christ a Happy Birthday.

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AND of course, don’t forget to donate some of your things to the people who have been affected by typhoon Sendong. Give with all of your heart and remember that they need it. Let us give love! Most of all, let us pray for them.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

*let the Christmas songs begin. tenenenenenen

*When will I experience white Christmas? Thank you.

All the photo credits go to their respectful owner/s.

Azkals VS LA Galaxy

The Azkals and LA Galaxy game is such a nice ending for what a great year for the Philippine football. I can see our future in 5 years. Oooh, I’m ready.

Philippine Azkals (left) VS LA Galaxy (right)

The first half of the game was closed, I thought the team did a great job. James Younghusband was so active; he’s all around the area actually. But of course, Phil standout because of that fantastic one-on-one goal during the 40th minute of the game. I became so ecstatic. Yes I did. I waited for this game for such a long time. All the players did well, though there were some miscues and incomplete passes. But that’s alright because Pacquiao arrived at the last minutes of the first half. I’m sure he’s not expecting that something good will happen to him at the end of the game.

Along with all the efforts of the Azkals during the first half is the fact that LA Galaxy made the match more exciting. The accuracy of the passes, the spacing and the show of David Beckham. Yes, he was fantastic tonight. The first half ended and I thought Azkals had a big shot on this one.

The second half arrived, and Azkals just got destroyed by the LA Galaxy. Different players scoring here and there, making it a night to remember for all the Azkals players. It was just lopsided. I thought Azkals played out of sync but I would also like to give all the credits to the defense of the LA Galaxy. They made Chieffy Caligdong turn into silent mode.

The game ended with the score of 6 – 1 in favor of the visiting team. Nonetheless, Azkals has nothing to be ashamed of. They showed a great character and to add, fighting a champion club ain’t easy. It’s like that they’ve been together for years. So major props to all the Azkals players!

So here is why PacMan got lucky. He became the recipient of Beckham’s jersey. Of course boys and girls would be jealous of that. You would like to wear his shirt while playing football!

So, thank you LA Galaxy for bringing some excitement here in our country. Hope you’ll come back and we’ll surely make you pay. Ooops, I’m just kidding anyway. Just be back and play some more games.

Actually I’ve thought of something great. How about putting Rooney, Villa, Casillas, Ronaldo, and Messi in one team? Then fight Azkals! That would be epic. That’s just a dream anyway. Or if that’s impossible, just bring ManU or FCB and let them fight the Azkals. That’ll be more exciting!

All photo credits go to their respectful owner/s.

The Aquino Republic

Let start this with a short conversation between to different persons:

Mr. Foreigner: Hey you, where you from?

Mr. dela Cruz: I’m from the Aquino Republic. Beat that you whitey!

Okay let’s end that senseless conversation right now.
News are all-over the Metro and we’re being haunted by them. From the discovery of the biggest crocodile (which is from the government.. I mean from the government of the crocodiles. You do not know if Lolong is the president of their federation right? Oh you got me there!) to this bill passed by an official: a bill that wants to change the name of “EDSA” to “Cory Aquino Avenue”. For the babies out there, Cory Aquino is the first female president in the Philippines (Aquino Republic). I don’t actually know things about EDSA, perhaps the only thing I know for now is he’s a person and he did something great for the community. something really bad. What I mean with bad is.. uhm.. not cool. I know you guys want some cool stuff. Anyway let’s start this one off.

I’ve read some tweet that’s somehow relevant or significant to this issue. The tweet was about a fine humor to sum it all up. It says that: About this EDSA to Cory Aquino Avenue…do you honestly want more people cussing at Cory’s expense? i.e. “Tanginang Cory ‘to traffic parin!” – kudos to the maker of this tweet. You don’t really want to disrespect our late president right? I’m so kind. Do they serve as bonus for my final exams next week? No?! Okay.

Different places and landmarks in the Philippines were named after the late Aquinos. From Airports to streets and to places. You can search them all up in Google. Don’t trust me on putting all of them here. I mean, am I the only one who noticed it? Yes, they deserve recognition and appreciations for what they’ve done for the country. But I think naming our “important” places with Aquinos is just not acceptable. You don’t want to change history just to honor them. You can put statues but you can’t give them something that’s owned by someone. Give some respect for Mr. EDSA for human’s sake.

I’m not trying to sound as a hater here. I’m trying to make a point that I would like to send out to all the Filipinos out there. Enough is enough.

So thank

you. Please, to all the government officials out there, don’t let EDSA be CAA. Or else, just please change the name of the Philippines to AQUINO REPUBLIC. Now who’s up for some party on Republiq tonight?