Today marks another milestone in Philippines Electoral system as this will be the first Automated Elections nationwide. More than 25 Million people voted for the presidential, legislative, and local positions.

We went out early to exercise our  right to vote. As always, the election is the most colorful and thrilling event in the country. Does this look like a common fiesta to you?

Much to our chagrin, there are failures and delays on this new system which should have been anticipated by the COMELEC earlier. And there were those hard-headed Filipinos who just makes the whole process seemed to be so much complicated than that. I mean, its just a mere one day of your time to sacrifice for our better 6 years, why don’t you just shut the hell out and get in line and leave your complains at home.

Waiting time for most lasted for 2 hours and more. I get lucky that my precinct don’t have a line when I checked in, and finished the whole process in less than 30 minutes– from the gate to have my precinct number counter-checked on the list, to filling out my ballot, dreading if the PCOS machine will recognize my pick, to the application of indelible ink.

Here’s me, flashing you a finger. Do I look fresh in the midst of 36 degrees heat?

Now to wait here and see who caught the heart of the majority of Filipinos.

More photos at Weekend Haven FB Page.

i ♥ pilipinas, i voted,

Being a country where 85% of of the population is Roman Catholic and the only Christian nation in Asia, Philippines has number of celebrated events that sprung out from Spanish Catholic Tradition. From Nazarene procession, to Misa De Gallo, to the solemn Holy Week tradition, it’s hard to ignore how these amazing events changes over the years.

Holy Week is one of the most fascinating and longest event celebrated with many of devout Filipinos clinging on to old traditions.

Starting off with a unique Palm procession on Palm Sunday followed by a series of ‘pasyon’ or ‘pabasa’ which begins on Holy Monday. It is where a poetic prayer of Jesus the Christ life, passion, death and resurrection are chanted all through out the country,  getting more lively each year.

Various processions are hosted on Holy Wednesday.

On Maundy Thursday, the last Supper is celebrated in the churches and most people go on Visita Iglesia.

Good Friday seemed to busy most town. There are a lot of events held in different places, processions with devout Filipinos whipping themselves, hoping to get at least a feel of Jesus sufferings. Some even volunteer to be nailed on wooden cross they carry out on a long walk to crucifixion. These bizarre act have gained popularity to the world and is being a center of attraction by tourists every year.

Me and Mr. Haven Hunter though, opted to celebrate quietly at home. Yet, we have found time on Friday night to visit Bonifacio High Street to walk through the Stations of the Cross. Fourteen interactive stations that are based on the Gospel Accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are set up throughout the mall grounds.

1. Jesus Sweats Blood – Each station has scriptures, so heartfelt that anyone will never have a hard time to reflect despite the wave of people coming. For the first station there are huge mirrors, to check yourself out, to make you realize that the image you see in front of you is the reason why Jesus endure what he did.

2. Jesus is Betrayed By Judas – Jesus is Betrayed by Judas. To Judas, Jesus was worth 30 pieces of Silver: the equivalent of three month’s wages of a common laborer.

3. Jesus between the Sanhedrin – Sanhedrin is a late Hebrew representation of the Greek word Synedrion meaning “sitting together” as a legislative assembly or Senate.

4. Jesus is Judged by Pilate – The Verdict where Pontius Pilate, Roman Governor/History’s Greatest Coward. took the water, and  washed his hands before the multitude, saying: “I am INNOCENT, of the blood of this JUST person.” - Matthew 27:24

5.  Jesus is Scourged – The Whip. Remember that Jesus was beaten to make us whole.

6. Jesus is Crowned with Thorns – For this station we were given a strip of black cloth which represents the mistakes of our lives, all our sins and failures.

7. Jesus Carries His Cross. We had a feel of what its like to carry our own cross. Mr. Haven Hunter tried 70 lbs. and mine was 50lbs. It was just a few steps but carrying it over our shoulder made us realized how hard it was when Jesus carried it through Via Dolorosa up to the Calvary during that fateful day.

8. The Two Simons – Simon Peter and Simon of Cyrene. The Simons who pulled through for Jesus when He needed it the most. There were bowls of prayer requests, where we were asked to pull one paper, pray for their needs and be the Simon for them. We also dropped our prayer request hoping that someone will pick and pray for it.

9. Jesus is Crucified – There is a huge cross where everyone can nail the piece of black cloth handed in Station 6. It reminds us that because God loves us, we do not need to bear the gravity of sin in us anymore. Jesus died for these sins on the cross.

10. Jesus entrusts Mary to John – The Mother. I personally like what this station activity requires:

This is the time to think about your own family. How is everything? Whether things are well or rough, would you take time to thank God for your family.

Is there a strained relationships within your family, would you pray for healing and restoration?

Would you pray for protection and success?

11. Jesus Promises Paradise to a Repentant Thief – The Promise. Two thieves hang on the cross on either side of Jesus. One mock Him and the other chooses to pray for Him.

12. Jesus Dies – The Darkness. A mysterious eclipse  shrouded the hills of the skulls, the hill where Jesus hung. The Darkness of Good Friday seems real. It seems permanent. “SEEMS” is the operative word.

13. Jesus Rises – The Cloth. Praise God for the hope Easter brings to us! It reminds us that just as Easter completes the work of the cross, God will complete the good work He has for our lives. We were given a piece of paper to write down the name of the person who touched our lives and hang it on the board. We offered a prayer of blessings.

14. Remembering Jesus – Remember that Jesus died and rose again for us. We are a part of a family of Christ followers.

Walkway : Reflections on the Stations of the Cross will be open until April 4, 2010. An Easter Concert will be held on Easter Sunday at 7:00 PM.

An awesome project made possible by ChurchSimplified

God Bless Us!

Me and Mr. HavenHunter were privileged to attend the opening opening day of Asia’s Premier Gaming Event of the Year, Asia’s Gem 2010 (Asia’s Gaming & Entertainment plus Leisure Expo) at SMX Convention Center. Since he works with the gaming industry, this event is a prerequisite. I remember going there last year and was so amused with the high end display of gaming machines and the entertainment provided by those dressed up models, including a Marilyn Monroe act. Hoping to play some slots and get some freebies this year.

Rallying proud for its fifth staging around, Asia’s GEM – Gaming Entertainment plus Leisure Expo Manila has elicited the totality of the gaming and tourism industry. The activity filled with fun, bonding, interaction, intellectual sharing and discussions will still be expected but with a higher benchmark, as this year will be set to parade a mirage of new offerings to suit the many exciting twists and turns of Asia GEM.

Upon Arriving, I registered for an ID.  Entry to the event is free. I noticed the number of foreign visitors this year have multiplied.  We were ushered by beautiful ladies on our way to the entrance.

Going around we happened to see our Ninong Bob and several of Mr. HH officemates. The place is not as lively as last year maybe because we just missed the opening ceremony. We’ve seen PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Efraim C. Genuino doing his rounds with his guests and some media.

I had my picture taken with Bumblebee and two stunning aliens. Thunderbird Resorts have a booth set-up with gorgeous lounge chairs. Of course, I didn’t missed the opportunity in trying them out and had my picture taken.

New Slot games are at the IGT booth inspired by television shows, American Idol and defunct Sex and the City.We weren’t allowed to take photos though. What can I say, Manny Pacquiao has Slot Machines too.

At the Resorts World Manila booth, we were offered to sign up for their membership cards. We decided to get one each since this can be a little handy when we go on a trip to Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios in Singapore.

While Mr. HH is filling out the forms, a 6.2 magnitude quake struck Manila. The pretty lady he was talking too turned pale since all the fixtures above started swaying. I was standing nearby and felt a sudden silence embraced the hall. I think I’ve panicked too and was checking out if the table nearby is sturdy enough to accommodate us if things got out of hand.

I just heard him say don’t panic. Several seconds later, the shaking stopped. Business as usual, when we’re finished with the forms, we received our gift bag and a cap. I am still dizzy though.

Further ahead, the big event of ongoing $1M poker tournament is on final table. I wished I understand more about this games and how its being played, but my idea of fun is limited only to PopCap Games, Plants vs. Zombies, Uno, Pet Society and Sims. lol. For all we know, big names in the Poker tournament were there to grace the event.

Still dizzy we didn’t stay long and went to watch Alice in Wonderland in 3D.

We ended the day with green tea yoghurt at Red Mango where my sister-in-law,  Dang and our friend  Jeff joined us.

Poker face,

Went around at the expo earlier in SMX to find out if there is anything worth raving about. True enough, I was walking in a pool of temptation. So, if you are on a hunt for a summer getaway or the best travel deal for 2010 around the Philippines, Asia, US or any International destination, you still have one day to get ready, jet-set and go!

The 17th Travel Tour Expo 2010 runs on February 19-21, 2010 at SMX Convention Center Hall, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Entrance to the event is P50 per person and a P5,000 worth of purchase entitles the holder for a raffle ticket.

Check out the following booths for some tempting deals and interesting getaway destinations:

• Sun Cruises offers 50% off to Corregidor Day Tour. Package includes round trip ferry transfers, shrine, entrance and terminal fees, guided island tour and buffet lunch. Open date tickets are available for use until Sept. 30, 2010.
• Sea Air gives an Early Bird Promo to Batanes at P2,835++ one way. Travel Period is June 16- Oct. 15, 2010.
• Continental Airlines offers a breath-taking holiday promo to Palau for as low as US $495 for 3 days. Includes roundtrip economy class airfare to Palau, two (2) nights hotel accommodation, daily hotel breakfast and roundtrip airport transfers.
• Budget travelers rush over to PAL and Cebu Pacific booths. Hands down, those two won the longest line. Visitors are going crazy with seat sales for International and local travels.
• Zest Air Promo gives 50% off to local destination.

I was surprised to see Costa Cruises have joined the bandwagon and offered an impressive line-up of Asia Cruises. I remember  how posh the interior of Costa Europa was when Lorena and Lorenzo ushered me on board for a day trip. Definitely Cruising Italian Style.

I was unsuccessful to find a booth from Indonesia though. I was hoping to find something for our itinerary to Jakarta, Yogyakarta and the rest of Java.

Anyways, still have 12 hours more to think about Batanes package and seven months to do  24 hours work shift to sustain my traveling addiction. Lol.

♥valerie {your haven hunter | bring me to Batanes, China, Japan, Korea…}

The modern airplane creates a new geographical dimension.  A navigable ocean of air blankets the whole surface of the globe.  There are no distant places any longer:  the world is small and the world is one.

- Wendell Willkie

Valentine’s Day was just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than be gone for the weekend! Clark, Pampanga is an ideal getaway place, more so after securing tickets for the 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.

A weekend without sleep was all worth it. Last Friday was a bit hectic while I juggle work, errands and preparation for our weekend getaway.

We have to leave around 3 AM on Saturday to commute from Manila to Dau and be on time to catch the morning fleet of hot air balloons. From Balintawak, Quezon City we hopped in at Five Star bus bound to Dau Bus Terminal. Traffic was light at the crack of dawn.

It was quarter to 5 when we reached Dau Bus Terminal. We then look for a jeepney bound to Clark Gate or chekpoint near SM City Clark. From there, we hailed one more jeepney going to Air Force City where the Hot Air Balloon Festival is being held since Feb. 11.

Good thing, we already have tickets or we’ll dreadfully be wasting time on the long, long line at the ticket booth.

Various photographers positioned themselves near the fence. Families, couples and friends are present during this big event. Many tourists are enjoying the day too. Army & Men in uniform were roaming to secure everyone’s safety. Ample parking space were provided at a P50 fee.

Branches of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have set up booths for the curious visitors. Firearms, Air crafts,  Army Jeeps and fighter jets are just some interesting pieces on display by Air Force, Philippine Army and Marines.

It was hard to find a perfect spot to get a good shot at the field when the balloons are being prepared. Three sky divers graced the morning sky to signal the start of event. One carries a huge Philippine flag and sway it across the sky while the national anthem plays in full volume.

A moment later, hot air balloons started lifting up. We’ve gone crazy over the jumbo turtle balloon named Mister Bup, Old Mc Donald’s Farm, Karlsberg Urpills and a Smiling Sun. It was just amazing to watch the sky filled with colors.

After the morning show, the hot air balloons returned at around 6 in the evening for the Night Glow. Meanwhile, the morning has just started as Candaba Bird’s Fly-in put on a unique show. Paragliding, sky diving and ultralight aircraft show followed. While kids and kids at heart enjoys the kite flying experience.

Yellow Cab and other food booths are conveniently located for anyone who wants a delight. Sponsors like Caltex with Techron showcase an Alien and Predator model made of gears and metals. Other booths sell souvenir items and we scored some freebies from DHL, an umbrella and a promotional stunt kite.

At around 10 in the morning, we left for breakfast and savor the best bulalo in town. Oh, we were in heaven.

We did check out Parkson Duty Free and PureGold for some sweets. Then off to Century Resort Hotel to check in. Our eyes were heavy and our restless soul were longing for rest.

We dose off for less than 2 hours and we’re in the road again to witness the hot air balloon night glow. The number of people increased compared earlier that day.

The top of the armored vehicle provided us with great vantage point. Too bad the weather wasn’t coordinating and we failed to see a single hot air balloon go up to lit the night sky.  The participants just put on a light show from the ground.

We had dinner at Rumpa before going back to our room.

Sunday – 14th -Heart’s Day

We can’t get enough of those colorful hot air balloons and decided to check out the day’s show. We didn’t stay long though and missed out the valentine’s air show and fireworks.

Heavy traffic as visitors doubled up on the last day. There were additional Hot Air balloons on the show but the turtle and the barn are still the crowd favorites.

Click thumbnails for your viewing pleasure.

’twas a fun, fun weekend. We’ll definitely going back next year with families and friends.

Special thanks to Ninong Bob for helping us.

Im’ma one happy birthday girl ;-}

Manila, Philippines is where the Best & Longest Christmas Celebration is  happening. It is a wonderful season to share, shop and party! As early as September, radio stations play Christmas Carols on air. Shopping Centers get crowded. The glittering Christmas lights and spectacular decorations light up the street  until January. Kids and Young at heart  eagerly waits for Santa to fulfill their wishes. Christmas bonus brings happiness to everyone. Parties here and there.

The New Year Celebration is undeniably the most lively event of the year. In every street, people gather to put up their own fireworks display. Some prefer to welcome 2010 with live concerts and feast on sumptuous Media Noche by 12.

To send off a great 2009, here’s a New Year’s Meme Edition:

1. What did you do in 2009 that you’d never done before?

• Be a housewife.
• Work full time as freelance professional.
• Paradise Getaway with husband in Hong Kong, Negros & Cebu Island in Philippines.

2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and will you make more for the new year?

I can’t even remember my New Year’s Resolution for 2009. =( But this year I hope to lose weight and be serious with it.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes. Beth, my former housemate gave birth to a beautiful angel.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Yes. Husband’s aunt and Godmother to our marriage passed away.
5. What countries did you visit?

Honeymoon in Hong Kong

6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?

The first quarter of 2009 was crazy and I had to deal with a hectic schedule right after the wedding. My schedule moderated down on the 2nd quarter. I got so used to the laid back atmosphere since then but I am ending it soon as I would be challenging myself to be more proactive in 2010.

7. What dates from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

June 30th – an overnight trip to Sonya’s Garden in Tagaytay | Dec. 30th – Wedding Anniversary

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Make a living  out of my freelance work.

9. What was your biggest failure?

Staying fit and sticking to my diet.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

No major health issues.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

2009 is a big year for us after the wedding. We were busy furnishing and decorating our house all through out  the year. Our major purchase goes out to furniture items.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Husband for being so patient and understanding.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

The person who stood me up on my wedding.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Travels. Credit Card companies.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

Traveling makes me giddy.

16. What song will always remind you of 2009?

I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas | Nobody but You – Wonder Girls

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:a) happier or sadder? b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer?

a) happier b) fatter … waaahhhh c) same.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Exercise and work out.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Slack off.

20. How did you spend Christmas?

We visited my parents and went to hear a Christmas Mass. Cap off the evening with Noche Buena at my mother-in-law’s home.

21. Did you fall in love in 2009?

Yes, over and over again. Cheezy!!!

22. How many one-night stands?

Zero.

23. What was your favorite TV program?

Gossip Girl. Local: BOF, Survivor Palau & PBB… yeah, I’m a sucker for drama!

24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

Hate is a very strong word that I would not use as of the moment.

25. What was the best book you read?

I was able to read three books in 2009. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown, Queen of Babble by Meg Cabot & Kapitan Sino by Bob Ong. None stirred my emotions though, but all are good reads.  I should be reading more books in 2010.

26. What was your greatest musical discovery?

Susan Boyle?

27. What did you want and get?

A lot of things. I make it a point that if I really want something, I work hard to get it whatever it takes.

28. What did you want and not get?

One piece of jewelry I was expecting to receive long time ago…

29. What was your favorite film of 2009?

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen; Confessions of a Shopaholic

30. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

Let’s just say that I’m in late 20′s. ;P Spent it at home, with family.

31. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

2009 was a great year for us and I feel so blessed to be where I am and who I’m with now. I couldn’t ask for more. What would make it immeasurably more satisfying is if some things happened the way I wanted it too. But I learned life don’t always work that way.

32. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?

Summer all through out the year. Floral dresses & shorts. Comfy fit.

33. What kept you sane?

Sleep. FB Games. Travel plans. Work.

34. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

I ♥ Patrick Dempsey & Hugh Jackman. Girl Crush: Megan Fox (hot!)

35. What political issue stirred you the most?

The morbid Maguindanao Massacre and Presidentiables for 2010.

36. Who did you miss?

Old friends I shared moments and convos.

37. Who was the best new person you met?

Moving with my husband let me experienced and mingle more with his family and relatives. Its great to have the familiar crazy and loving extended family, it always feels like home .

38. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009.

Life is short and while making the most out of it by being happy and contented, we should also be an instrument to others life. What we can do now, places we can afford to go, and things that will make us happy, strive for it to achieve sooner before its too late.

39. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

Lets Do it (x3)
and live it up

I gotta feeling that tonight’s gonna be a good night
that tonight’s gonna be a good night
that tonight’s gonna be a good good night (x2)

Tonight’s the night
let’s live it up
I got my money
Lets spend it up

Cheers to 2010!

Wishing Everyone a Merry Christmas & A Prosperous New Year!

♥valerie {your haven hunter}