Category: Life & Love

Writing

November 17, 2025

Life & Love

What do you do when you’re feeling down?
As for me—I write. I write, write, and write.

Feeling “down” doesn’t always mean I’m deeply depressed. Sometimes it’s a heavy sadness; other times it’s an odd state of emotional blankness. And when I say “no emotions,” it’s not that I’m incapable of feeling—it’s that I consciously choose to approach an issue logically rather than emotionally.

Because of this, people often perceive me as nonchalant. But I disagree. Being nonchalant means not caring at all. In my case, I care deeply—I just prefer to pause, reflect, analyze, and then act.

Writing plays a huge role in that process. Whenever something weighs on me, I create a character out of the situation. I shape it, explore it, and let the words carry away whatever negativity I’m holding onto.

Writing is my release. My reset. My way of making sense of myself and the world.

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A Birthday Greeting

June 3, 2025

Life & Love

Today is my college friend’s birthday.
Even though I don’t know where he is now, I still want to send him my warmest birthday wishes. Some say we only search for people when they’re missing—but for me, that’s never been the case. Whether someone is near or far, if they matter to me, I make sure they feel it.

This friend was one of the few I held dear during my teenage years. We were close—not just in class, but in life. We shared stories, visited each other’s homes, and celebrated simple joys together. He was there during some of my hardest moments in college. Even if I didn’t share everything, he had a sense of what I was going through.

I love him like a brother—and maybe that’s why his absence still leaves a quiet ache. That kind of love is unconditional. Sadly, we lost touch somewhere along the road to adulthood, when life started handing us heavier burdens.

They say friends come and go, but to me, true friends are like family. My circle is small, but it’s built on trust. So yes—losing even one feels like losing a piece of home.

If by chance you ever come across this, I want you to know:
I never stopped hoping to find you again.
Happy birthday, my dear friend.

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Just For Fun: Q&A

May 27, 2025

Life & Love
1. If someone made a movie about your life, what would the title be—and who would play you?
  A: The Rollercoaster. Weird, I can’t think of anybody who would play me.
2. Describe yourself in three emojis. Go!
  A:😺 👻 🤪
3. What’s one weird habit you have when no one’s watching?
  A: Nothing.
4. You get one superpower—but it only works on Mondays. What is it and why?
  A. That heads will be cooler, work updates will be smoother, traffic will be lesser.
5. If your life were a playlist, what would the top three songs be?
  A. Rainbow Connection, River Flows In You, Time in a Bottle
6. What’s your “writer fuel”—coffee, tea, chocolate, or drama?
  A. Coffee
7. What’s the weirdest place you’ve ever gotten a story idea?
  A. None yet.
8. Do you ever talk to your characters? Be honest. Who talks back the most?
  A. Yes, Leona of The Haunted.
9. Which of your books would you drop everything to turn into a K-drama (or teleserye), and who would be the leading man?
  A. Catching Dragonflies With You. Ethan would be played by Song Joong Ki.
10. Ever cried while writing a scene? Which one broke your heart the most?
  A. Yes, Leona’s realization in The Haunted broke my heart the most as she was vulnerable and in denial.
11. If you could text your younger self just one sentence, what would it say?
  A. It’s a tough ride here so be strong.
12. What’s one quote (from your own writing or elsewhere) that gives you goosebumps?
  A. When Ethan said,”It has always been you, Myka. Only You.”
13. Which character you wrote would you want as your bestie IRL—and which one would you avoid at a reunion?
  A. Bestie would be Jennica from The Missing Woman: The Disappearance of Mary Ann Gonzalez because she’s smart and thoughtful.
  I would avoid Leona not because I hate her but because she’s a complex character.
14. What’s something people assume about you that’s totally wrong?
  A. That I’m a snob?
15. What’s your personal “plot twist” moment in real life?
  A. That aside from being an engineer, I am a poet and a writer. Some people just don’t believe!
16. If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
  A. Chocolate of any kind because I’m everybody’s comfort zone and safe space.
17. What’s the most Reese C thing you’ve ever done?
  A. Multitasking.
18. “On tough days, I _.”
  A. write more
19. You can invite any three fictional characters to dinner. Who’s coming and what are you serving?
  A. Seafoods with Ethan as he is slow-burning, pizza pie with Rupert as he is always on the go and steak with Dave as he is always poised.
20. What’s your ultimate dream: writing full-time in a cozy cabin, running your own publishing house, or signing books on a world tour?
  A. Signing books on a world tour!
PS: Reese C is the side of me that’s soft but steady. She is the voice I couldn’t use before—when I was too shy, too polite, or too scared to speak. Now, she speaks for every woman who wants to be heard without shouting.
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“Garcia Legacy: How Iskolar ng Bataan and Visionary Leadership Transformed Balanga City

May 23, 2025

Life & Love

The transformation of Balanga from a modest municipality into a thriving city is a testament to the visionary leadership of the Garcia family. Central to this metamorphosis is the Iskolar ng Bataan program, a scholarship initiative that has empowered countless families by providing access to quality education.

Iskolar ng Bataan: Empowering Through Education

Launched in 2004 under the leadership of then-Governor Enrique “Tet” Garcia Jr., the Iskolar ng Bataan program was conceived with a clear mission: to produce at least one professional per household. By offering scholarships to college students, vocational trainees, and educators pursuing advanced degrees, the program aimed to uplift families and foster community development.

The program’s impact has been profound. By alleviating the financial burdens of education, it has enabled students to pursue their academic goals, leading to improved employment opportunities and economic stability for their families.

Balanga’s Ascension to Cityhood

The Garcia administration’s commitment to education was paralleled by their efforts to elevate Balanga’s status. In December 2000, through Republic Act No. 8984 authored by Congressman Enrique “Tet” Garcia, Balanga was converted from a municipality into a component city. This transition allowed Balanga to receive a larger share of the national revenue allotment, facilitating infrastructure development and public service enhancements.

Under the leadership of Mayor Albert S. Garcia, the city embarked on a comprehensive development plan, focusing on urban planning, economic growth, and technological advancement. These initiatives laid the groundwork for Balanga’s emergence as a modern urban center.

Embracing the Digital Age

In recent years, Balanga has garnered recognition for its digital transformation efforts. The city was named one of the Digital Cities 2024, highlighting its strides in creating job opportunities, enhancing digital infrastructure, and fostering innovation. This achievement underscores the Garcia administration’s foresight in integrating technology into the city’s development agenda.

Success Stories: From Scholars to Leaders

The true measure of the Iskolar ng Bataan program’s success lies in the achievements of its beneficiaries. Many scholars have gone on to become professionals, contributing to various sectors and serving as catalysts for change within their communities.

One such scholar, Rainiel Salandanan, a student from Bataan Peninsula State University, expressed his gratitude:

“The ‘Iskolar ng Bataan’ program provides crucial support for my education, especially as the child of a solo parent. It relieves my parent from worrying about my educational expenses.”

Such narratives exemplify the program’s role in transforming lives and reinforcing the Garcia administration’s commitment to inclusive growth.

A Personal Note of Gratitude

On a personal note, I carry a deep sense of gratitude toward the Garcia family. As a former neighbor, I will always remember the heartfelt gesture when Mrs. Vicky Garcia, Gov. Joet Garcia, and Cong. Abet Garcia visited during the wake of my mother.

It’s worth noting that during the time Abet was running for mayor of Balanga, our family supported his political opponent due to familial ties on that side. Politics was confusing and tumultuous then, and we merely followed the inclination of our father. Despite being on different sides of the political fence at that time, the Garcias showed kindness and compassion beyond politics—something that I will never forget.

A Legacy of Visionary Leadership

The Garcia family’s holistic approach to governance—prioritizing education, economic development, and technological innovation—has indelibly shaped Balanga’s trajectory. Their initiatives have not only elevated the city’s status but have also improved the quality of life for its residents.

As Balanga continues to evolve, the foundations laid by the Garcia administration serve as a blueprint for sustainable and inclusive urban development.

PS: This is not a political post. This is a personal reflection and expression of gratitude from an ordinary citizen who simply wants to recognize and appreciate the positive changes and programs implemented in Bataan—particularly the transformative work of the Iskolar ng Bataan program and the leadership that helped shape Balanga into the city it is today.

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My Close Encounter with Ricky Davao

May 6, 2025

Life & Love

There was a time in my life when I was a huge showbiz fan.
Some of my old colleagues from WPH would probably still remember how much I followed local celebrities. 😂

Living and working near Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) had its perks—celebrities would casually roam around the area. It wasn’t unusual to catch glimpses of actors and actresses just going about their day.

One evening, I spotted Carlos Morales across the gym, fully immersed in his workout.
Another time, I had a funny little moment with Sunshine Dizon—we were both in the same store, and we almost reached for the same blouse. Of course, I let go of it. She was shopping, while I was just window shopping. 😂

But the memory that stood out the most involved the late Ricky Davao.
Back then, I hesitated to approach him—not because he was intimidating, but because there was something special, almost sacred, about that moment.

It was around the year 2000 or 2001. I was walking near Time Square Cinema when I passed by a group of people sitting casually on the steps.
In the center of the circle was Ricky Davao, animatedly sharing a story with what I assumed were fellow cast members of the show Oka Tokat. They were laughing and clearly enjoying each other’s company.
I paused for a moment, thinking whether I should say hi, but I chose not to interrupt their joy.

Besides, my phone at the time was, well, “Jurassic.” No cameras. No selfies. No instant proof that I had seen him.

Fast forward to 2025—news of Ricky Davao’s passing brought back that quiet memory.
Although my interests have shifted through the years, moments like that one resurface when life suddenly connects the present to the past.
It’s funny how our memories work. They remain tucked away until something gently tugs them back into the light.

And yes, I was a huge fan of Oka Tokat. I especially loved Jack—Ricky’s character who gave life to the show in ways that still linger in my memory.

Rest in peace, Ricky. Thank you for the stories, both on-screen and in real life.

#rickydavao

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Dennis Padilla: The What Could Have Been

April 10, 2025

Life & Love
By now, most of us have heard the buzz: Claudia Barretto’s wedding—meant to be a beautiful, private affair—was unexpectedly overshadowed by her father, Dennis Padilla’s emotional outburst. Instead of walking his daughter down the aisle, Dennis was seated among the guests, while it was her mother, Marjorie Barretto, who proudly took on that meaningful role.

For those who’ve followed Dennis Padilla’s long and sometimes turbulent relationship with his children, especially his very public social media rants, their March 18 mini-reunion with Julia, Claudia, and Leon already felt like a step forward. A breakthrough, even.

But then came the wedding.

And many of us can’t help but ask: Could this have been avoided?

What if Dennis had taken a step back, reflected, and created a simple checklist for himself—a guide of do’s and don’ts when navigating the fragile terrain of a newly rekindled relationship?

Some questions he could have asked himself:
1. Are my children still aloof or distant?
2. Did Marjorie know about our mini-reunion?
3. Am I ready to show love and support—even if the healing process isn’t complete?
Three simple, honest questions that could’ve helped him manage expectations and prepare emotionally.

If his kids still seem distant, maybe it’s because they’re still learning to feel safe around him again. Dennis himself admitted in past interviews to having struggled with anger management. To be fair, even Marjorie denied that he was ever physically violent. Still, emotional wounds leave marks, and healing takes time—especially when the children spent most of their formative years with their mother.

Let’s not forget the timeline. In 2004, Dennis’s showbiz career began to slow down, and he even had a public fallout with Gretchen Barretto. By 2007, his political career also ended—while Marjorie, on the other hand, was just beginning hers as councilor of Caloocan (serving until 2013). It’s unfair to paint Marjorie as someone who simply leaned on her sisters; while Claudine and Gretchen may have shared their blessings, it was likely Marjorie who provided most of the day-to-day care for their children.

Now, if Marjorie was unaware of the mini-reunion, that could’ve made Claudia’s decision even harder: Should she honor a father she’s only just reconnected with—or the mother who’s been there every single day?

And this brings us to the third—and deepest—question: Is Dennis truly ready to support his children without expecting anything in return?

This is where true healing lies: in the ability to love without entitlement.

He expected more from the reunion than what his children were emotionally prepared to give. Instead of staying quiet and taking the high road, he chose to express his disappointment publicly, even targeting Julia on social media—when the issue was actually with Claudia.

Imagine the alternate scenario. What if Dennis had kept his cool? What if he had chosen grace over grievance? The public, and more importantly, his children, might have seen a glimpse of a changed man. That simple act of restraint could’ve opened doors to faster healing, deeper understanding, and maybe even a more prominent role in their lives moving forward.

But healing takes patience. And it also takes humility.

Let’s hope that in time, Dennis and his children find their way—this time, not through viral posts, but through quiet, meaningful moments that don’t need to be broadcasted.

#dennispadilla

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Reconnected

February 27, 2025

Life & Love

I asked a former high schoolmate if he still had a copy of our yearbook. He said he would look for it. I replied that if he managed to find it, he should let me know right away so I could borrow it.

“Why are you feeling nostalgic these days?” he asked.

His question caught me off guard.

“I’ve always been nostalgic!” I replied.

Then I wondered—do I come across as someone longing for the past because I was happier then?

But the truth is, my happiness isn’t tied to any particular season. I have always been a positive person. I just have a vivid memory of the people, places, and moments that mattered to me.

Just this week, I reconnected with Tessie and Rosedel through Facebook.

I first met Tessie when I was around six, but we became close when I was twelve. She was Mama Dely’s (my grandmother’s sister) trusted assistant—running errands, managing tasks, and helping wherever needed.

My childhood in Mabini was filled with afternoons spent on Mama Dely’s terrace, enjoying snacks while Tessie handled the steady stream of customers at the sari-sari store. She was fearless, too—climbing trees with ease, especially the macopa tree, where she’d gather a small basket of fruit. One of my fondest memories of her was when I caught her sneaking a quick kiss with one of our Coke delivery men.

Rosedel, on the other hand, came into our lives in the mid-’90s when she helped my aunt raise her son. Unlike Tessie, who loved to joke around and tell stories, Rosedel was friendly but a bit reserved. My aunt, Ate Gina, trusted and loved her because she cared for my cousin as if he were her own younger brother. We formed a strong bond, and when they eventually returned to their province, it saddened me.

Life moves forward, and some say it’s natural to forget the people we meet and lose along the way. But I see it differently. I never forget those who were kind to me, even if they’ve moved on.

That’s why I always make the effort to find them—to ask how life has been treating them.

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Category: Life & Love

Iskolar ng Bataan: Empowering Through Education

Balanga’s Ascension to Cityhood

Embracing the Digital Age

Success Stories: From Scholars to Leaders

A Personal Note of Gratitude

A Legacy of Visionary Leadership