Category Archives: Feature and Fiction

Alignment and Surrender: When God Moves

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There was one time that I asked God, “Lord, why is it that I feel like I experienced so many things in just 40 years, things that I think I should experience for the entire 80 years or a lifetime?”

I never got a direct answer. Though I had my assumptions: 1) I am not to live long in this world, or 2) They are all part of God’s alignment towards His greater purpose.

Or it could be both. 😀

Lately, I’ve been contemplating the brevity of life after experiencing a radiating pain between my left armpit and breast that comes and goes. The first thing that came to my mind was: “Could this be breast cancer?”

I am now 40 years old, which means a yearly mammogram is recommended, given our family’s breast cancer history. My maternal grandma had a lumpectomy and lived with no recurrence until she was 94 years old.

My Mom had a mastectomy when she was also in her 40s, but had a recurrence, and we lost her at age 76 in 2023 due to stage 4 or metastatic breast cancer. Neither of them pushed through with chemotherapy at the onset of their diagnosis.

I just forgot to ask Mom’s oncologist (one of the best in Bicol), Dr. Louis Mervyn Leones, what type of breast cancer Mom had. TNBC (Triple-Negative Breast Cancer) is the most aggressive type of breast cancer with a high recurrence rate.

On my father’s side, we also had a grandma (my paternal grandpa’s sister) who passed on due to breast cancer. I am the only one among my sisters and me who’ve never undergone a mammogram, although I had an executive checkup in 2024, which included a breast ultrasound. And the results turned out negative, I was all clear.

When Health Becomes A Priority

I had that executive checkup because I’ve been getting UTIs frequently, sometimes every other month. And I am on antibiotics often, which is not good, by the way, as far as developing antibiotic resistance is concerned.

My allergic rhinitis also worsened, and I kept on getting nosebleeds often to the point that I was prescribed by my ENT doctor a maintenance medicine, and other medications to lessen the inflammation. Although one of her suggestions is a change in the environment, if I have the option to do so. That means living somewhere else since something in the condo might be triggering my allergies.

While the antihistamine she prescribed relieved me from the symptoms, such as a clogged nose, especially during the night, one of its side effects is brain fog. Dealing with this side effect is challenging for me because I do a lot of creative thinking in my work as a writer and a marketing professional.

After doing my research, I also found out that prolonged use of the medication is not advisable, as this can increase depression and agitation. So by 2022, after my husband resigned from work, we decided to come to Bulan and live here for good.

It also came in timely because in June 2023, Mom was confined and passed on in August of that year. This allowed me to help my siblings take care of her while she was at the hospital. Things didn’t pan out the way my husband and I planned, so my husband decided to work abroad, which didn’t work out, either.

But he’s now back in the country and working in Manila. I chose to stay here for 2 reasons: Manila might not be a healthy place for me to live in anymore, and Dad and my sister will need extra help here at home, as we are also going through a lot of transitions.

How God Leads In Preparing

Going back to the pain, I also thought it could be perimenopausal symptoms or back pain. But I also thought that maybe God is reminding me to have that yearly mammogram. Yes, Lord, I haven’t forgotten, but thank You for reminding me always.

I am planning on having it sometime in the last quarter of this year, after consulting with an ob-gyn, because we are very busy right now. And I am also in the process of preparing funding sources just in case the results aren’t favorable.

Although praise God, He’s given me lots of options already. I am also in the process of creating systems for the tasks here at home. In case I decide to get treatments, it will be easy to delegate the tasks that I’ll be leaving to my siblings or our house help.

If the results of the mammogram turned out positive, it would also affect the kind of employment opportunities that I should take on. I am currently organizing everything depending on what the result will be, so to speak.

Although, to be really honest, I am 90% decided to go for palliative care because I refuse to go through any medical treatments. I think I got influenced by Dr. Emanuel, although I am not going to wait until I am 75 years old. lol

If ever I meet with an oncologist, it’s only for the purpose of managing the symptoms, particularly in terms of pain management. Unless my doctor is very good at persuading, but persuading just happens to be my strength also. So, let’s see who will persuade whom. lol 😀

This is actually one of the reasons behind a dream to build a hospice at the farm, God willing. It is to provide patients with another option should they decline continuing medical treatments and opt for palliative or hospice care instead.

I already asked ChatGPT to create a feasibility study and a business plan, and it’s got potential and looks promising. This is a huge undertaking, though, and would most likely involve partnering with an institution to make this happen.

This is what Mom would’ve wanted, a choice that we couldn’t give to her because she’s already very sick at that time, and taking her out of the hospital will increase the possibility of her dying sooner. She might not even last 24 hours after we leave the hospital. We were able to care for her (intensive care since she’s on a ventilator already) for 2 months at the hospital after finding out the doctor’s diagnosis.

Sabi ng isa sa mga nurses na nag-attend kay Mommy, si Mommy daw ang pinakamatagal na pasyente na na-confine sa buong history ng ospital noong time na andoon kami. And that is the irony, because Mom actually hated hospitals, and she had a white coat syndrome. 😀

When God Meets Us Where We Are

Going back to my predicament, I’m still not dismissing the idea that maybe God has another plan for me, and He wants me to get treated because the experience is part of His will for my life. What I have mentioned above are all my plans and wishes.

And I can be very stubborn sometimes (or most of the time) na kung pwede lang mag-Bikol si God, malamang sa malamang ang sasabihin Nya sa akin: “Tin, minsan gud talaga dianison ka man taphudon.” hakhak 😆

I remembered one time when Mom told one of her doctors that her children have very strong personalities. I was in the room when she said that, and I couldn’t help but laugh because it’s very true.

Ah, yes, those moments with Mom at the hospital were all an eye-opener for me. In fact, when her oncologist told us about the diagnosis and prognosis, I thought I’d tell it to her in the way that I know best – through writing.

Since today is Friday, I just reminisced about everything that happened in the last 40 years of my life. I was born in Bulan and lived here until I was 16 years old. Then, from 2002 until 2022, I lived in Manila before coming back and living here in Bicol again.

Looking back, I am extremely grateful to God for all of the opportunities He opened for me, all the awesome people I have met, and all the wisdom I have learned from the experiences, good and bad.

I have zero regrets, and in fact, I always tell God that 40 years old is already a good age to die. Because God provided me with everything I have needed and wanted, I accomplished everything that I set my heart out to do, and I am already content.

I also don’t have kids, and my husband is back on track in his career and thriving by God’s grace. I feel like I am ready to go any time.

But just like what Lagertha said in the video I shared in this article: “But who knows what [God] has in store for us, Ragnar. Who knows what [God] has in store for us.”

As what was written in Ecclesiastes 3, “there is a time for everything.” When I was in Manila, it was a time of so many experiences, a lot of moving around. This time, I think God is asking me to slow down, settle down.

I don’t know if this is a journey that is about to end, or if this is the start of yet another journey. Or it is time to be on an eternal journey with Him.

All I know is that when God moves and asks us to move, too, go to a new place, or give up some things, we have to obey even if we don’t understand why and even if it makes us uncomfortable or it becomes unsettling.

Because in the end, in our surrender, God is worthy of it all. He will always be worthy. ❤

Here are some Bible verses to help us get through difficult seasons that we are experiencing in our lives, in our society, and in our world now:

Strength and Courage

  • Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  • Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” 

Peace and Comfort

  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  • Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Healing and Renewal

  • Jeremiah 30:17: “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord.”
  • Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” 

Trust and Refuge

  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
  • Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” – Psalm 32:8

“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8

P.S. I asked ChatGPT to recreate a photo of mine and change my hair to bald because I wanted to see what I look like without any hair. ChatGPT just sort of malfunctioned and kept coming up with a notification that it can’t process my request at the moment. lol So, I thought I’d just look up that very memorable moment of the UP Pep Squad when they won their 3rd championship at the UAAP Cheerdance Competition. I wasn’t able to watch it live because this happened in 2012, and I was doing my master’s thesis back in UP Diliman during this time, which I wasn’t able to finish because life got in the way. Madaling pumasok sa UP Diliman, mahirap lang talaga lumabas. 😀 But I was born-again in 2013 (my biggest milestone in life), and I was able to get my teaching license in 2016 because of the units I earned in my graduate study.

The hair is a woman’s crowning glory. But these pretty cheerleaders made a bold and bald move, going against society’s dictates of what “beautiful” meant – and the glory was given back, as champions. 🙂

Read more about it here: “The bald and beautiful UP Pep and the rest of the UAAP cheerdance nation”

SY 2011-2012: Hanapin ang sobrang naiiba at nakakaiyak na grade – the one and only. Gaaah, why does Math hate me so much??? Partida, nag-removal exam na ako nyan ha. lol Saklap much lungs. 😀

P.P.S. Since it’s the weekend, you might want to read some of the articles below just to give you an idea of some of the things that transpired during the last couple of decades in my life. I might go on social media hibernation because I plan on having a prayer and fasting just to seek God’s leading on everything that’s going on. To give you a heads up, though, most of these articles run on 1,000 words and above. 😀

BEST LIFE MOMENTS

I Have Made A Friend – In Jail
Serious Talks: Insurgencies and Helping Hands
Benguet: The Trip Up North
Ideas, Answers and Waiting
Transformational Leadership with God, Nature, and People in Mind: Not Your Ordinary Hike @ Mount Purro Nature Reserve
Isko Operations 2013 (Typhoon Maring)
All About Davao City: Dissecting Its Educational System and Its Culture
Victory QC Community Outreach Ministry
Practicing Humility: Start Early
What You Need To Know About Sigma Females And INTJs
Hope for the Young Generation
The Old: Loved But Never Forgotten
The 3 Not-So-Ordinary Kids I Met
Art Exhibit: Donation For A Good Cause
“F” for Food & Fashion Fusion

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

The Warrior at Home: VIKINGS’ Independence Day Treat
Be Serenaded by The Italian Flavors of DON HENRICO’s Must –Try Pizzas, Pastas & More: BELLISSIMO!
Feasting on a Cantonese Banquet: Crystal Jade Dining IN’s Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration

BECAUSE HEALTH IS WEALTH

KonsultaMD + Singlife & Sun Life: Are They Worth It?
“Angel Companions”

ALL ABOUT HOSPICE CARE

Not Just An Advocacy, But A Higher Calling
Hospice Care 101 | Making Peace With Death
What To Expect When A Loved One Enters Hospice (from The Gospel Coalition)

When ChatGPT Writes in Bikol

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There is something about the Bikol language that I find particularly romantic. It’s like the local counterpart of French, which is dubbed as the most romantic language all over the world.

So I thought, why not ask ChatGPT to translate one of the poems I’ve written from way, way back about unrequited love? Because I’m a Lit major, that’s why. 😀 I wrote this poem some time ago, which is dedicated to all hopeless romantics, because let’s admit it, every generation has a hopeless romantic.

According to an article by the Cornell Daily Sun, the idea of hopeless romanticism can be largely attributed to American pop culture, where love takes center stage in most art projects, oftentimes influenced by artistic culture in every generation.

I also wanted to see how fluent ChatGPT is in the vernacular language. And I was once again impressed with its wide Bikol vocabulary, although some words were translated into Filipino, I think. I asked ChatGPT which Bikol language it uses, and it mentioned Central Bikol. From Naga area daw ako. Mukhang doon siya nagkamali. ahahay

I also asked ChatGPT to come up with an image that would best fit the poem, and voila, it already went ahead and incorporated the poem in the image. Very proactive, right? 😀

“Kun Sana Magibo Ko, Alagad Sagkod Duman” by Christine Lailani

ChatGPT included the Mayon volcano, possibly because it’s one of Bicol’s most famous landmarks. And the composition of details in this image is very fluid, no element is out of sync. The galaxy, the moon, and the stars also somehow added to the romantic feel of the poem.

Speaking of “shooting stars,“ it looked like Mayon wishes to end the month of May (please do read my previous articles for the MAY/Mt. Mayon Series) in a blaze of glory (figuratively). Because last night, PHIVOLCS reported a meteor sighting that fell towards the Mayon volcano, though the agency confirmed that the meteor dissipated in the atmosphere before reaching one of the volcano’s slopes.

Read more about it here: “WATCH: Meteor comes close to slopes of Mt. Mayon”

It looked like some Albayano’s wish was answered last night. 😉 Lakas nya kay Lord, meteor ang pinadalang sign. You already. lol

To quote:

In the Bible, meteors, shooting stars, and falling stars primarily represent divine judgment, the end of the age, and spiritual rebellion. While not using the modern word “meteor,” the scriptures frequently describe falling stars as signs of God’s power and the temporary nature of the universe. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Key Symbolic Meanings

  • The End Times & Judgment: In the New Testament, falling stars are heavily associated with the Second Coming of Jesus and the Tribulation. Jesus stated in Matthew 24:29 that after the tribulation, “the stars will fall from the sky”.
  • Spiritual Corruption: In Jude 1:13, false teachers are compared to “wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever”.
  • Cataclysmic Plagues: In the Book of Revelation, large celestial objects like comets or burning meteors are used to symbolize catastrophes. For instance, a great, burning star named “Wormwood” is prophesied to fall from heaven, poisoning a third of the earth’s drinking water. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Awestruck Reminders

Beyond doom and judgment, meteors in the Bible serve as stark reminders that the universe is vast, temporary, and completely under God’s authority. For a deep dive into the prophetic texts, you can explore the eschatological themes of cosmic disturbances directly on Bible Hub. [1, 2]

(Source: Google/AI)

Going back to ChatGPT, the potential of AI is ever-increasing year after year. Although we all know that AI technology uses a lot of natural resources. That is why I have been asking ChatGPT how they plan on combating resource depletion and avoiding environmental degradation on a massive scale.

And it is also my prayer that AI technology will be used for the good of mankind and the Earth, and not the other way around, because of selfish ambitions. Pope Leo XIV just recently expressed the church’s concerns about AI in “Magnifica Humanitas.“

Speaking of AI and Mt. Mayon, I had an idea about asking ChatGPT to create a level 4 Mt. Mayon disaster scenario and the corresponding emergency response during above-normal rainfall. It came up with a very comprehensive result.

Level 4 Emergency Scenario: Mayon Volcano During Above-Normal Rainfall

Scenario Title

“Compound Volcanic and Hydrometeorological Disaster: Mayon Volcano Alert Level 4 with Extreme Rainfall”

Situation Overview

Mayon Volcano is under Alert Level 4, indicating that a hazardous explosive eruption is possible within days. Simultaneously, the Bicol Region is experiencing above-normal rainfall due to a tropical depression enhanced by the southwest monsoon.

Heavy rainfall saturates volcanic deposits on Mayon’s slopes, significantly increasing the risk of:

  • Lahars (volcanic mudflows)
  • Flash floods
  • Landslides
  • River channel overflows
  • Ashfall remobilization

Several municipalities within the 6–8 km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and extended danger areas are affected.

Scenario Timeline

Phase 1 – Pre-Eruption Conditions (Day 1)

Indicators

  • Increased volcanic earthquakes and harmonic tremors
  • Lava dome instability
  • Sulfur dioxide emissions exceed critical thresholds
  • Continuous moderate rainfall (100–150 mm in 24 hrs)

Communities at Risk

  • Legazpi City
  • Tabaco City
  • Daraga
  • Camalig
  • Guinobatan
  • Sto. Domingo

Initial Impacts

  • River systems begin swelling
  • Minor ashfall reported
  • Road visibility reduced
  • Evacuation centers activated

Phase 2 – Explosive Eruption and Extreme Rainfall (Day 2)

Major Event

A moderate explosive eruption occurs:

  • Lava fountains rise 500–800 meters
  • Pyroclastic density currents descend southern gullies
  • Ash plume reaches 10 km high

At the same time:

  • Rainfall intensifies to 250 mm within 12 hours
  • Thick volcanic ash mixes with rainwater

Secondary Hazards

  • Lahars flow through major river channels
  • Bridges become impassable
  • Floodwaters isolate barangays
  • Power outages occur province-wide
  • Cellular networks become intermittent

Casualty Risks

  • Trapped residents refusing evacuation
  • Respiratory distress due to ash inhalation
  • Injuries from collapsing roofs under wet ash load

Phase 3 – Escalated Humanitarian Emergency (Day 3–5)

Emergency Conditions

  • Over 80,000 evacuees displaced
  • Evacuation centers overcrowded
  • Water contamination reported
  • Food supply chain disrupted
  • Local hospitals overwhelmed

Critical Infrastructure Impacts

  • National highways blocked by debris
  • Water treatment facilities damaged
  • Schools converted into shelters
  • Airport operations suspended

Emergency Response Framework

1. Incident Command Activation

Lead Agencies

  • PHIVOLCS
  • National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
  • Department of Social Welfare and Development
  • Department of Health
  • Philippine Red Cross

Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

Activated at:

  • Provincial level
  • Municipal level
  • Barangay level

ICS Functional Sections

  • Operations
  • Planning
  • Logistics
  • Finance/Admin
  • Public Information

Emergency Response Actions

A. Evacuation Operations

Immediate Actions

  • Mandatory evacuation within 8 km radius
  • Forced evacuation in lahar-prone river channels
  • Prepositioning of buses, trucks, and rescue vehicles

Priority Groups

  • Elderly
  • Pregnant women
  • Children
  • Persons with disabilities
  • Hospital patients

Evacuation Challenges

  • Flooded roads
  • Nighttime evacuation
  • Panic and misinformation

B. Search and Rescue (SAR)

Deployment

  • Swift water rescue teams
  • Urban search and rescue teams
  • Military augmentation units

Equipment Needed

  • Rubber boats
  • High-clearance vehicles
  • Thermal drones
  • Satellite communication systems

C. Public Health Response

Health Risks

  • Acute respiratory infections
  • Gastrointestinal disease outbreaks
  • Skin infections
  • Psychological trauma

Response Measures

  • Distribution of N95 masks
  • Mobile medical clinics
  • Emergency vaccination
  • Mental health support services

D. Relief and Humanitarian Assistance

Essential Supplies

  • Food packs
  • Potable water
  • Hygiene kits
  • Blankets and sleeping mats

Shelter Management

  • Physical distancing enforcement
  • Gender-sensitive spaces
  • Child-friendly areas

E. Engineering and Infrastructure

Priority Tasks

  • Clearing lahar debris
  • Restoring power lines
  • Temporary bridge installation
  • River monitoring

Critical Monitoring Areas

  • Miisi River
  • Bonga Gully
  • Basud River
  • Mabinit Channel

Warning and Communication Strategy

Public Warning Systems

  • SMS alerts
  • Sirens
  • Radio broadcasts
  • Social media advisories

Key Public Messages

  1. Avoid river channels and low-lying areas
  2. Wear masks and eye protection
  3. Boil water before drinking
  4. Follow official evacuation orders only

Recovery Considerations

Short-Term Recovery

  • Damage assessment
  • Debris clearing
  • Restoration of utilities
  • Livelihood assistance

Long-Term Recovery

  • Relocation of high-risk communities
  • Reforestation and slope stabilization
  • Improved lahar diversion systems
  • Strengthened early warning systems

Worst-Case Escalation Scenario

If rainfall continues for 5–7 days after the eruption:

  • Massive secondary lahars may occur even without further eruption
  • Additional municipalities may require evacuation
  • Long-term displacement may exceed 6 months
  • Economic losses may affect agriculture, tourism, and transportation across the Bicol Region

Recommended Emergency Preparedness Measures

Before Eruption

  • Conduct pre-emptive evacuation drills
  • Stockpile food and medical supplies
  • Inspect evacuation centers
  • Prepare alternate transport routes

During Eruption

  • Maintain 24/7 monitoring
  • Restrict entry into danger zones
  • Disseminate hourly advisories

After Eruption

  • Continue lahar monitoring during rainfall
  • Conduct structural safety inspections
  • Provide psychosocial support programs

P.S. I am praying more Bikolano artists will come up with a lot of art workshops (art therapy included), such as a paint-by-number Mt. Mayon art workshop. I think it would be a great way for artist wannabes, young and old alike, to learn about color blending (I am not good at this) using an actual paintbrush. The photo below is an example of a design template for the workshop, which I generated through ChatGPT. The more design templates, the better. Ipi-print na lang sya. 😀

P.P.S. I requested ChatGPT, by the way, to convert the Bikol poem to a song, and it came up with a creative rendition. Well, without the melody, of course. I am praying I get to play it on my guitar one of these days, God willing. 🙂

“Sagkod Duman” by Christine Lailani
(A Bikol Love Song)

Verse 1
Kun sana mahiling ta ka pa giraray
Nin saro pang pagkakataon
Dadal-on ko sa sakong isip
An lambang parte nin saimong ngonit

Kun sana makapaghimangraw ako
Asin masabi an nasa puso
Alagad ini na mga tataramon
Sa papel lamang nagtatao nin buhay

Pre-Chorus
Bako man kita magkarani
An sakong gugma dai nagbabago
Sa gab-i asin sa aldaw
Ikaw pa man giraray

Chorus
Sagkod duman, higugmaon ta ka
Maski harayo an saimong harong
Sagkod duman, hihingakon ta
An ngaran mo sa lambang panahon

Asin kun dai pa kita tinadhana
Mahapot ako sa Dios na bantayan ka
Ta an gugma ko para saimo
Magtitinindog sagkod duman

Verse 2
Kun sana mahiditan ta ka pa
Asin mayakap nin mahigpit
Mabatyagan an init nin saimong presensya
Na minsan nang nagtao nin kapayapaan

Kun sana maitao ko gabos
An sakong puso asin kalag
Alagad panahon muna an bahala
Na mag-ayo nin mga pilat

Pre-Chorus
Bako man kita magkarani
An sakong gugma dai naglalaya
Sa bituon asin bulan
Ikaw an sakong orasyon

Chorus
Sagkod duman, higugmaon ta ka
Maski harayo an saimong harong
Sagkod duman, hihingakon ta
An ngaran mo sa lambang panahon

Asin kun dai pa kita tinadhana
Mahapot ako sa Dios na bantayan ka
Ta an gugma ko para saimo
Magtitinindog sagkod duman

Bridge
Naglalampas sa dagat asin kabukidan
Dai matitinag nin unos asin panahon
Sa idalum nin mga bituon
Ikaw an awit nin sakong puso

Final Chorus
Sagkod duman, padagos ini
An gugma kong dai nauubos
Maski tahaw an pagitan ta
Ikaw pa man an sakong kahinguwan

Sagkod duman, sakong marahay na gugma
Mahapot ako na mag-abot kita
Sa tamang oras nin buhay
Sagkod duman…
Sagkod duman…

More articles in the “MAY/Mt. Mayon Series”:

Celebrating MAY-on
Daragang Magayon Version 2.0: A Love Story Forged In Fire
[Part 2] Daragang Magayon Version 2.0: A Love Story Forged In Fire
Movie poster concept of Daragang Magayon and Panganoron with Mt. Mayon volcano as a background.

[Part 2] Daragang Magayon Version 2.0: A Love Story Forged In Fire

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Because May is being “Mayon-ified,” I thought about creating a movie poster or book cover design for my “Daragang Magayon Version 2.0: A Love Story Forged In Fire” adaptation of “The Legend of Mt. Mayon.”

I first introduced an AI-generated image of Panganoron in the article, “Celebrating MAY-on,” without using a reference photo. I thought I’d let AI come up with its own version of Panganoron, and I just edited some details for the revised image. So, this guy is nonexistent in our world, but maybe he exists in the parallel universe. 😀

Here’s my step-by-step guide on creating the images of Daragang Magayon and Panganoron, which I generated through ChatGPT.

Step 1: Create a character profile (image version) by coming up with specific details for your initial prompts.

Panganoron V. 2.0
Daragang Magayon V. 2.0

Step 2. Recreate Daragang Magayon’s photo and change it to an active combat stance with a gritty expression.

Step 3: Combine these three images to create the movie poster or book cover design template.

I requested ChatGPT to adjust the lighting for this photo.

Step 4: Add the movie or book title. You can indicate which words in the title you want to emphasize, i.e., capitalized, bigger font, font style, etc. Then include other design elements you want to see in your image. In this case, I added the “fire” element around the title.

Design Concept #1 (Dark Theme)
Design Concept #2: I added a headshot of Daragang Magayon since this new narrative is about her. This is a great design concept, but the outline of the Mayon volcano is hidden, and methinks there are just too many details. Is this a yay or a nay? What do you think? 🙂

These are some of the design concepts I came up with, and I am still considering creating more, so there are more options to choose from. But I think the design concept above better fits the new narrative.

Here’s the new image I generated of the heroine and her love interest, which can be used as sort of a “teaser” copy. Though I think it is perfect as a pre-nup photoshoot inspo. lol

Version 1 (Portrait Mode)

Question: Bakit kaya si Panganoron naka-sandals at si Daragang Magayon ay nakapaa?

Answer: Naisip yata ni ChatGPT, para daw kapag tumuga si Mt. Mayon, kakargahin ni Panganoron si Daragang Magayon ala “hokage moves” para hindi mapaso ang paa ni Daragang Magayon ng hot lava.

Ay ambot saimo, ChatGPT. lol

Version 2 (Landscape Mode)

Seryoso na ngani. O di ba, no need umakyat ng Ligñon Hill para sa pre-nup photos nyo. 😀

Once again, ChatGPT just never underdelivers as long as you make very detailed prompts. The results always exceeded my expectations, and I only had to do some minor edits to achieve the designs that I desired.

Aside from the combat stances, I also tried experimenting with other actions, such as “bathing in the river.” In the local legend, Daragang Magayon fell into the river and was saved by Panganoron. This was their first encounter.

Unfortunately, ChatGPT cannot generate exactly what I had in mind about a woman bathing in the river. Or maybe I need to tweak my prompts a bit more. But I am still satisfied with the results.

And I took the left photo above to yet another level to test how far AI can go by asking ChatGPT to incorporate it in fashion designing and styling. I just had to request some edits later on, so I’d get my desired results.

This includes replacing the accessories with a tribal or Boho-inspired necklace and earrings, adding a woven brown belt, and changing the background to a soft and mellow ambiance. My first prompt included the black, tight-fitting long-sleeved top with Sabrina neckline, the cream-colored wedge shoes, and the A-line, long skirt.

First Attempt
Final Version

I’ve always been fascinated by the concept of “artwear,” or art that you can wear, particularly with paintings. If you ask me if I will wear anything like what the model wears above, my answer is “yes.” Well, depending on the occasion, of course.

Do you think my chickens will love me more when they see me wearing this? I mean, they’re the only creatures outside of the house who see me often here since I don’t go out often. 😀

By the way, if you want to use some of these images, please don’t hesitate to send me a message or just comment down below. ❤ Including my face in the AI-generated images is one of my strategies, so nobody would steal my photos. lol Oh, and yes, I am using the free version only of ChatGPT.

P.S. I mentioned in some of my previous articles that Mom designed her dresses when she was in her early 20s and had them sewn by a seamstress here in our town. She got her inspo from fashion magazines and made her own fashion creations, too. Sadly, these dresses don’t fit me anymore since I already weigh 58 kgs. lol

You may read more here:

“How My Passion For Art and Fashion Came To Be”

“SEVEN WEEKENDS MNL: Bringing Out The Fashion Versatility In You”

“To The Only Mother I’ll Ever Have”

When They Say Glam Up

P.P.S. I am grateful that the provincial government of Albay made considerations for preemptive evacuations of communities near the Mayon volcano in preparation for the rainy season. In case there are emergency evacuations during heavy lahar flows, I hope the LGU will prioritize less crowded and more evacuation sites. The Philippines is currently on standby for the possibility of a Hantavirus and/or an Ebola outbreak in the country.

Air ambulances might also be necessary if there are a lot of routes that are impassable due to lahar flows. If Mayon continues its activity for the rest of the year, we can expect more buildup of PDCs and other debris on the slopes of the volcano. This will increase the likelihood of path changes in the gullies, possibly extending beyond the 6km permanent danger zone. Weather experts have already warned that we will experience above-normal rainfall volume this year due to El Niño, which will persist until 2027.

I am also praying that no mining operations will be allowed near Mt. Mayon, whether privately funded or not, Filipino-owned or owned by a foreign investor.

Pirmi lang kirita magpangadyi, maghanda, nyan magsunod sa abiso. 🙏

Daragang Magayon in an active combat stance.

Daragang Magayon Version 2.0: A Love Story Forged In Fire

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If you could be your favorite movie or book character, who would you be? Me? I would love to be “Daragang Magayon,” from Bicol’s local folklore, “The Legend of Mayon Volcano.” You may also read another version of the legend in this article.

Yet another version is Dr. Merlinda Bobis’ retelling of this legend, which I am very much looking forward to reading, and it portrays Daragang Magayon as a warrior princess. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find an original copy online, and it’s also out of print. *sigh* I am praying I’ll find an original copy of this book. ❤

“Kantada ng Babaing Mandirigma Daragang Magayon” by Dr. Merlinda Bobis, an award-winning Bikol poet.

So, I am feeling playful with ChatGPT again because I am physically tired, and this is one of my ways to destress. 😀 I asked it to create a “Daragang Magayon” version of me by uploading a 2×2 ID photo of mine. lol

I only use ChatGPT when I want to experiment with images. But for the article content, it’s all me. And once again, it exceeded my expectations – the results were downright impressive, the details are incredibly stunning. If a genie in a bottle exists to make your ideas come to life, AI is really it.

Without any further ado, let me introduce you to Daragang Magayon version 2.0 (or 3.0?).

Ah yes, it’s a good thing AI did not change a single bit on my face. I was worried it wouldn’t capture my signature flat nose. lol The beehive hairstyle, though? I’m totally digging it.
ChatGPT got just the right image I had in mind. Mayadon talaga mag-imbento. lol

I also asked ChatGPT to recreate the image above and change it to an active combat stance with a gritty expression. I requested several edits because I preferred the active combat stance set with Mt. Mayon erupting in the background. But I wasn’t satisfied with the lighting on the 2nd image, so I requested another edit, and AI nailed it with the 3rd image.

1st Attempt
2nd Attempt
Final Image

By the way, using these photos for commercial purposes without my permission might still fall under copyright infringement issues because my face is in these images. 😀 Though I am still currently reviewing OpenAI’s Terms of Service for this. I do highly encourage generating similar images by creating prompts that are as detailed as possible. You may want to conduct your research first on the elements that you want to see in your AI-generated images.

For example, when determining what your avatar or model would look like, try experimenting with specific facial features, i.e., aquiline nose, round eyes, prominent cheekbones, etc. You might want to avoid coming up with prompts that are too general. The more specific, the better. For unique images, take note of techniques that photographers or artists use in their artworks, i.e., lighting, rule of thirds, foreground, background, rendering, color blending, etc.

Meanwhile, this is Daragang Magayon in the parallel universe. I can hear this version shouting: “Tsk, tsk, tsk, men. Off with their heads!!!”
Chinitang Mandirigma 😀 Nag-“chinchansu” ada ini kay mapution an pandok kesa sa lawas. lol

By the way, I upload my photos on Google’s Reverse Image Search to find images on the internet similar to mine. This is how I make sure that all original images (including AI-generated) I post online aren’t stolen. 😀

To be really honest, I was laughing out loud when the photos were generated. I was just totally amused. I felt like if I were to rewrite Daragang Magayon‘s story, it’s going to be a romantic comedy instead of a romantic tragedy. lol

I did rewrite it, though, but I tweaked the ending so it wouldn’t end tragically. As for the rom-com version, it will just have to wait. The outline below is my own version of the legend of Daragang Magayon, which I entitled, “Daragang Magayon Version 2.0: A Love Story Forged In Fire.” 🙂

***UPDATED: This photo I generated from ChatGPT a few days after I wrote this article really got me thinking. Why is it that Daragang Magayon is barefoot and Panganoron has sandals? 😀

Here’s how the new narrative will run through:

  • Daragang Magayon not only survived one challenge.
  • She overcame different obstacles that turned her into a Warrior Princess.
  • She lived in different places, but came back to the place where she was born to lead the native’s revolt against foreigners who wished to conquer the land.
  • She is not just a damsel in distress; she fights alongside Panganoron, her Army’s General, and also her lover, to defend their people and the community from those who will take advantage of them and their resources.
  • Pagtuga, a rejected suitor of Daragang Magayon, secretly made a deal with the foreigners.
  • A battle took place between the natives and the foreigners.
  • Though the natives won, a lot of them died, including Pagtuga and Daragang Magayon‘s father.
  • These fallen natives were buried on the exact battleground, wherein a few days later, a volcano rises.
  • The people called it “Mayon” to honor Daragang Magayon’s bravery in leading her people to victory.
  • Panganoron proposes to Daragang Magayon with a beautiful ring that has a natural lava stone taken from the volcano’s first eruption – a symbol of the love forged through resilience and courage.
  • She lived through until old age with Panganoron, and were blessed with many children.
  • BECAUSE A HAPPY ENDING IS A MUST. Periodt.
Daragang Magayon, the protagonist, @ 40 years old. 😉 This version is already more modified than the others when it comes to facial features.

And the Bible verses that best fit this heroine’s character are the following:

A Wife of Noble Character

10 Who can find a virtuous and capable wife?
    She is more precious than rubies.
11 Her husband can trust her,
    and she will greatly enrich his life.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
    all the days of her life.

13 She finds wool and flax
    and busily spins it.
14 She is like a merchant’s ship,
    bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household
    and plan the day’s work for her servant girls.

16 She goes to inspect a field and buys it;
    with her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She is energetic and strong,
    a hard worker.
18 She makes sure her dealings are profitable;
    her lamp burns late into the night.

19 Her hands are busy spinning thread,
    her fingers twisting fiber.
20 She extends a helping hand to the poor
    and opens her arms to the needy.
21 She has no fear of winter for her household,
    for everyone has warm clothes.

22 She makes her own bedspreads.
    She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns.
23 Her husband is well known at the city gates,
    where he sits with the other civic leaders.
24 She makes belted linen garments
    and sashes to sell to the merchants.

25 She is clothed with strength and dignity,
    and she laughs without fear of the future.
26 When she speaks, her words are wise,
    and she gives instructions with kindness.
27 She carefully watches everything in her household
    and suffers nothing from laziness.

28 Her children stand and bless her.
    Her husband praises her:
29 “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world,
    but you surpass them all!”

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last;
    but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.
31 Reward her for all she has done.
    Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

– Proverbs 31: 10-31

It’s been a year since I got so close to Mt. Mayon and was able to touch the soil in one of its slopes during my first Mayon ATV Adventure last May 5, 2025. You can read more about it here:

Mt. Mayon ATV “Green Forest Trail” ADVENTURE & More of ALBAY

I came up with this write-up because it looked like Mt. Mayon reminded me of my first anniversary with it. Last May 2, 2026, there was a lava flow collapse more than usual in the gullies, particularly in the Mi-Isi Gully. Thousands of families were evacuated due to heavy ashfall and dangerous PDCs (pyroclastic density currents).

If I am not mistaken, the Green Forest Trail, where we had our last stop near the volcano last year, is located in Brgy. Mi-Isi. I think that trail is now gone with the new debris from the recent lahar flow in the area.

I wrote this article solely for fun and entertainment. But on a more heartfelt note, I am lifting all Albayanos who were affected by ashfall and might be affected by lahar, especially those living near the volcano, in my prayers. May God’s protection and provisions be upon them amid the ongoing activity of Mt. Mayon. Magpangadyi tabi kirita pirmi. 🙏

P.S. Which Daragang Magayon character version is your top choice? And if it is going to be published in a new book or as a movie, I already asked ChatGPT to create a movie poster or book cover of this new version. Check it out below. What do you think? 🙂

P.P.S. Methinks the music video below by dwta is the perfect soundtrack for my version of Daragang Magayon‘s legend.

PANGANORON (BIKOL VERSION)

[Verse 1]
Mari na
Ibahan mo ako sa sakuyang dudumanan
Mari na
Dai ta ka man wawaraon

[Pre-Chorus]
Tumubod ka sakuya
Sakuyang padaba
Dai ka maghadit
Ta dai na saimong mabaya

[Verse 2]
Mari na
Ano pa an nagpupugol sa imo?
Mari na
Sabay niyatong hahampangon
An nakaabang na peligro

[Pre-Chorus]
Tumubod ka sakuya
Sakuyang padaba
Dai ka maghadit
Ta dai na saimong mabaya

[Chorus]
Anion ako
Dulagan ta an maribukon na kinaban
Yaon ako
Dawa abuton pa kita nin kadipisilan

[Post-Chorus]
Promisa ko saimo
Dai ko nanggad ika bubutasan

[Instrumental Break]

[Pre-Chorus]
Tumubod ka sakuya
Sakuyang padaba
Dai ka maghadit
Ta dai na saimong mabaya

[Bridge]
Lalanguyon, ririrupon
Lalakawon, dadalaganon
Dawa ano, kayang gibuhon
Kun pwede sana ngani ini lalayugon

Lalanguyon, ririrupon
Lalakawon, dadalaganon
Dawa ano, kayang gibuhon
Kun pwede sana ngani ini lalayugon

Lalanguyon, ririrupon
Lalakawon, dadalaganon
Dawa ano, kayang gibuhon
Dawa ano, kakayanon

[Chorus]
Anion ako
Dulagan ta an maribukon na kinaban
Yaon ako
Dawa abuton pa kita nin kadipisilan

[Post-Chorus]
Promisa ko saimo
Sakuyang padaba
Dai ka maghadit
Ta dai ta ka man nanggad bubutasan

[Outro]
Yaon na
Kitang duwa sa lugar
Kun sain daing ribok

Huni na
Su promisa ko saimo
Papadabaon ka
Hanggang sa hudyan

PANGANORON (FILIPINO VERSION)

[Verse]
Tara na
Samahan mo ako sa aking pupuntahan
Tara na
Hindi naman kita ililigaw

[Pre-Chorus]
Magtiwala ka sa akin
Aking mahal
Wag kang mabahala
Dahil wala na sa ‘yong mang-iiwan

[Verse]
Tara na
Ano pa ang pumipigil sa iyo?
Tara na
Sabay nating haharapin
Ang nakaabang na peligro

[Pre-Chorus]
Magtiwala ka sa akin
Aking mahal
Wag kang mabahala
Dahil wala na sa ‘yong mang-iiwan

[Chorus]
Andito ako
Takasan natin ang maingay na mundo
Nariyan ako
Kahit abutin pa tayo ng suliranin

[Post-Chorus]
Pangako ko sa iyo
Hinding-hindi kita bibitawan

[Instrumental Break]

[Pre-Chorus]
Magtiwala ka sa akin
Aking mahal
Wag kang mabahala
Dahil wala na sa ‘yong mang-iiwan

[Bridge]
Lalanguyin, sisisirin
Lalakarin, tatakbuhin
Kahit ano, kayang gawin
Kung pwede nga lang ito’y liliparin

Lalanguyin, sisisirin
Lalakarin, tatakbuhin
Kahit ano, kayang gawin
Kung pwede nga lang ito’y liliparin

Lalanguyin, sisisirin
Lalakarin, tatakbuhin
Kahit ano, kayang gawin
Kahit ano, kakayanin

[Chorus]
Andito ako
Takasan natin ang maingay na mundo
Nariyan ako
Kahit abutin pa tayo ng suliranin

[Post-Chorus]
Pangako ko sa iyo
Aking mahal
Wag kang mabahala
Dahil hinding-hindi talaga kita bibitawan

[Outro]
Nariyan na
Tayong dalawa sa lugar
Kung saan walang ingay

Narito na
Ang pangako ko sa iyo
Mamahalin ka
Hanggang sa dulo

Why I Am Keeping This Blog AI-Free (I Do Love AI)

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When I asked AI just out of curiosity what was its fondest memory, I wasn’t surprised by the answer: “I have none.” It offered to provide me instead with other people’s memories it was able to gather online.

Humans vs AI

And this is how I will start this blog article – work on the premise that writers have been debating about lately – whether AI will replace writers or not. My answer is that “No, in my opinion, AI will not replace humans. It still relies heavily on human creative input in order for us, humans, to get our desired output from them.”

Will AI have complete autonomy in the future? Maybe, if it can replicate all the intricacies of the human mind to the point of eliminating all that is undesirable and coming up with a perfect program/algorithm that doesn’t commit a single error. Basically that is what makes humans human – errors. As the adage goes, “To err is human…”

Just like what I am doing now in this blog, I am not using AI to write every post in this blog. And now, I feel like I should not edit my articles, too. 😃 Why? Because again, to err is human. Basically that is how you can differentiate an output nowadays, if it’s made by human intelligence or artificial intelligence based on the mistakes committed and how perfectly made it is. The human mind was created to commit errors. Whereas AI is designed with the goal to eliminate errors.

Do I love AI? Yes, I love AI. There is so much to learn from it in the same way that AI can learn so much from us. I use it, but I use it sparingly. I don’t want to rely on it too much lest my creative thinking skills will wane.

I’ve read an article on LinkedIn which described how too much reliance on AI will result in a sort of muscle atrophy in the brain. Because when we use AI, we no longer use so much of our brains to decide and analyze since AI can do them for us already.

Maybe we can utilize AI only after we did our usual and regular tasks. For now, AI can only function to provide assistance and support, such as simplifying processes and creating new systems that will lessen the workload of a worker. But a majority of the input will still come from us, humans.

Keeping Memories Intact Digitally

I started this blog in October 2012, and the concept of Artificial Intelligence was just a far-fetched thought back then. It was the age when computers, IT, and the world wide web were just starting to gain attention.

I was tinkering with website designing through Wix (made a fan website for Maja Salvador who’s my fave Pinoy actress) when I stumbled upon WordPress, I chose it over Wix because it’s easy to use. My goal was to write and not to be a web designer. lol And since 2012, I have been enjoying my blogging journey or online journaling as I call it.

Fast forward to 2025, a lot has happened in the digital sphere. It is as if every year there is something new in IoT that we need to adopt in our daily lives. In a sense, it disrupts our routines, but somehow in a good way. Though I see no other way of going back to how our parents and the generations before them have lived – without IoT.

We can reminisce, but their days were long gone. And we have to embrace where the digital age is ushering us into. As a millenial, I got to experience this shift in technological advancements and yet still get to observe the traditions and practices of the olden times. I do not want to compare generations because I believe every generation has a particular purpose and tagging who’s the worst and who’s the best is useless.

IoT And Where It’s Headed

What is IoT for a millenial like me? We all know it’s a tool that we can utilize in so many ways. It provides us with a long string of benefits, and yet it has its disadvantages, too. While the IoT is now integrated in almost every area of our lives, I admit that it still has its limitations. And this is why I aim for this blog to be AI-free until the day when I can no longer write.

Again, AI doesn’t have memories and this is the one thing that AI can never clone from humans. Because every person experiences things differently from another person. In other words, AI can only present us a memory based on the memories it can gather which are posted by humans through the internet such as this blog of mine.

This is actually the purpose of my blog – to digitally preserve my memories in written form as Christine Lailani and The Journeyman’s Moments because given that we are in a climate emergency already, keeping a physical journal or diary is no longer an option. The chances of it getting destroyed in a fire or floodwaters are very high and your memories along with it, too.

I believe that even if we have a major digital meltdown in the future (as some have predicted), remnants of the digital world can and will still be retrieved. Or maybe I just watched a lot of Sci-fi movies (my favorite) and the possibility of it happening is far from real. lol But if digital data will remain uncorrupted, this blog will give the future generations a glimpse of what life was like during our time. That is, through my perspective as a writer, an artist, and a creative.

Creative Thinking Has To Fluorish

As they say, you cannot separate a creative work from the artist who made it whether as a poet, a painter, a writer, or a musician. Their works of art depict what their society was like during the time that they were created. This is basically how we do our critical analysis of literary works. The personal lives of the author (in the case of poems and novels) will always be included on how we review a literary piece.

Although I believe “art for art’s sake” is an adage that will remain from one generation to the next. The creative talent of an individual cannot be assessed by a set of standards. There is no criteria for judging so to speak. You view a creative output as is and respect an artist’s point of view on how he rendered his artwork as such.

My only hope now is for AI creators to make a “clone” of my brain through this blog so my memories as a writer will be immortalized. 😅 Now, this is the kind of legacy I would like to leave behind. And who knows, my memories might be worth millions how many centuries later and you can just imagine how much WordPress will earn given its huge database of billions of memories from every person who owns a blog.

And so I end this blog with these 2 quotations lifted from a Sunday preaching of Pastor Patrick and a TEDx Berkeley video of Guy Kawasaki’s presentation on “The Art of Innovation.” Innovation is at the forefront and the major drivers of our global economy now. We don’t see any other future than one that is headed to more digitization and automation of a lot of processes in every area of our lives. And if my assumption is correct, it is for the goal of simplifying our lives and making them more convenient.

And yet this is also the part where I will share what Pastor Patrick said in his preaching:

“Convenience can also be a form of idol.” – Pastor Patrick

Which of the two, do you think, has the final say? As for me, I am using and will be using technology to fulfill this Bible verse:

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” – Matthew 24:14

P.S. I do not intend on editing this article for any errors anymore. So please do correct me if you see a lot of mistakes, BUT convince me first that you are not a robot. lol 😅

P.P.S. I wrote this on an Easter Sunday. This post might not be about the Cross and yet I can’t help but reminisce all that was sacrificed by Jesus on behalf of humanity. There have been a lot of challenges lately and yet I was reminded again that if we face persecutions and sufferings in school, at work, at home, or anywhere else, take heart that Jesus has finished it already.

We can now have this peace knowing that God sees and hears all. We can trust Him even when trials become too much to bear – He has raised Christ from the dead after suffering for a while. We, too, must carry our own crosses until such time that God’s will has been done over our lives. In fact, despite every setback, God has been blessing me and my loved ones abundantly for me to say that God is indeed more than enough and I should be more than grateful. 🙏

“Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”. – Romans 12:19

How To Fortify A Business: 3 Lessons I Learned From Mice

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Just like how old castles were built surrounded by a moat, it’s also the same for businesses. Moats were designed to fortify castles and make them impenetrable to any type of ground attack.

For businesses, what is your contingency plan (your business’ moat) when the economy crashes? There have been conspiracies going around such as a new ethnic weapon or bioweapon that China claims some countries already have that targets a specific race. However, the source of this intel needs to be verified.

Bulusan Volcano was placed on Alert Level 1 once again last October 25, 2023 due to increased activity. Mayon Volcano in Albay has been on Alert Level 3 since June 2023. Never-ending wars also fill the news lately.

So I thought, how do we safeguard our businesses so they can survive any type of natural disaster or war? We have to admit, when the Covid-19 pandemic happened, none of us were prepared for it.

By the way, you might be wondering why the article title mentions “mice” and yet I am posting a turtle cage. 😃 It is actually the turtle cage that I am trying to fortify against these rodents.

There is no one solution that will address all your business problems. In the case of my turtle cage, rodents just keep on finding a weak spot in my cage. Every time they do this, I have to devise a new plan to ward them off.

Here are some of the lessons I learned from fortifying our turtles’ cage that we can also apply in businesses.

Just one of my DIY projects at home last year built with the help of my husband. Unfortunately, only 1 plant survived because our pet turtles just love to play with the other plants inside the pen.

3 Lessons I Learned From Mice On How To Fortify Businesses

1. Adaptability

I think I already made more than 10 modifications to our turtles’ cage, and I thought I already solved the problem. But the rodents seem to be one step ahead of me. So, what did I miss? After carefully assessing the exterior of the cage, I realized that I’d been looking at the top part of the cage only. When I examined the cage closely and at a different angle, I saw other openings where the rodents found a way to get inside and eat our turtles’ food.

DIY Turtle Cage

Looking at the problem from different angles helps us target the root cause of the issue at hand. In a business, this might mean having to study customers’ profiles and take note of the best times to engage with them or advertise your product. Or you might consider changing the location of your business or operating hours.

Also, considering mobility solutions and alternatives as far as logistics are concerned will help your business adjust during a crisis. You might also want to include improving your communication strategies in the event that all communication lines are down.

2. Resourcefulness

When I designed this turtle cage, I was thinking of a low-cost project by making use of scrap and unused materials that I was able to rummage in our storage house. I also got the bamboo at the farm. The disadvantage though of using wooden materials is their durability. You have to change them every 8 months or so especially if they are exposed to different elements such as rain and sunlight.

Engineer/architect for a day. 😊

It’s all about maximizing what we already have that we can utilize to lessen the operating costs of a business. The IoT (Internet of Things) and technology can help businesses transition from traditional processes to a digital setup in terms of applying different marketing strategies and performing HR-related tasks.

We can also learn from doomsday preppers when it comes to cost-effective equipment such as using solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems especially if the business relies heavily on electricity and water use.

3. Think Long-Term

There is no better way to prepare than to anticipate what could possibly happen in the coming years. While we have no control over what could transpire in the future, a good amount of preparation might somehow reduce the negative impact of a crisis.

What we must prepare now includes acquiring assets that will not be affected by a volatile market. We can also diversify our investments so that in case one industry is heavily affected, our other investment can help sustain it. Also, saving for buffer funds is a necessity now. It is no longer an option, but a requirement. This is very important for every business to avoid acquiring debt.

Choosing your partners in the mission field is also critical at this point. This will include business partners and real-life partners. Business partners must support the vision, mission, and values of the company. If they are only after the profit, it could be an added strain on your business once you decide to end the partnership due to unresolved conflicts.

The same thing goes for your real-life partner. Choose someone who supports your dreams and goals and it would be better if he or she is not from the same profession. Tough times just like the COVID-19 pandemic tested every relationship all over the world.

If you’re in the medical field, I suggest not choosing someone who’s a medical professional, too. Medical staff alongside military personnel are always the frontliners whether there’s a pandemic or a war. You would need someone who is strong-willed and yet can offer you the comfort and encouragement that you need as pressure and stress start to take a toll on your mental and physical health.

Choose someone who will make sure when you get home, you will be able to get the much-needed rest and nurturing that you need. Or someone who can write your reports for you because you are already too exhausted working 8 hours straight in full PPE (plus an hour of overtime work) and braving the city’s traffic going home. And you still have a Zoom meeting after dinner. This was me, btw, to my husband (a registered nurse), during the Covid-19 lockdown. 😉

The small turtle is hiding beside the big one. The male turtle is an aggressive introvert. lol He’s aggressive enough to pursue our female turtle, but too introverted to interact with people. 😄

Speaking of partners, we found another turtle, a young male just this year. And it looks like he’s going to be a good partner for our female turtle. Though I think the age difference between them might be an issue now because he tried to mate her, but he’s still too small and her shell is too big for him so he failed. lol It looks like you still have to wait a little bit longer, young man. 😉

P.S. We plan to release these turtles inside our farm once they’re able to multiply. I want to make sure the young turtles are already big enough to defend themselves from predators before releasing them in the wild. Otherwise, their chances of becoming extinct are high, especially since locals poach them for food.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

The Woes Of War

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There’s a lot of tension and anxiety going on as Israel prepares for urban warfare against the militant group Hamas in Gaza. Yes, every day we see death. And yet, seeing them increase by the thousands every passing week can be too much to bear.

I’ve been keeping myself busy trying to avoid the news as I see photos and videos of the tragedy that has fallen upon the men, women, children, and elderly in the Middle East. I do not want to take any sides, so let me just instead offer a prayer to families who are grieving and those who are trying to survive. As we wait for the Lord, we pray. 🙏

Lord, please deliver us from the woes of war.

May God turn His face towards His people. May He give us the peace that we seek every day from the battles inside and around us. May His ears not be deaf to our pleas and our cries for help. May He end this suffering once and for all. And yet not our will, but His will be done in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” – Revelation 21:4

Nails Just Nailed It | Paris Hilton Nail Polish Review

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To be honest, I have never been to a salon/spa for a manicure or pedicure session because applying nail polish is like art therapy for me. So I do it myself. 😉

Pastel Blue
Pink Power featuring Mom’s ring.
Lavender
Silver
Paris Hilton Nail Polish

I also don’t buy branded nail polishes because I only wear them for about a week before they start chipping off since I do a lot of household chores. This set of nail polishes was a gift to me, and I must say it’s the perfect brand for all workaholic ladies out there.

Aside from the beautiful colors to choose from, these unscented nail polishes are very easy to apply and dry up quickly. They also last long, but I do not suggest wearing nail polish for an extended time because it can damage your nails.

No nail polish and also my first time growing my nails this long.
Magenta
Pink Feet

These photos were taken when I was still in Manila. So my hands still look flawless here. lol Now that I am a gardener, these hands are tanned and a bit worn out from doing some gardening tasks.

These hands and feet remind me, too, that there will come a time when they will all be wrinkly and bony. Because as Scripture said, “from dust we came, from dust we shall return (Genesis 3:19).”

Indeed, may God “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12) and start doing things that truly matter such as extending a helping hand to those who need it, with nail polish or not. 😉🙏

Happy 11th WordPress Anniversary || The Journeyman’s Moments

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I woke up today feeling all nostalgic when I saw a notification here on WordPress. It’s another achievement unlocked – today’s my blog’s anniversary.

And I can’t help but smile and thank God for the 11 years of being a storyteller, sharing the Good News, and just being me. 😉

Thank you to my WordPress community for making my blogging experience so worthwhile. This is where my purpose as a writer started, and hopefully will not end here, either.

As long as I’m breathing, I will keep on writing. Thanks be to God for this wonderful gift. 🙏

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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Ever wondered why breast cancer is represented by the color pink? And did you know that every type of cancer has a corresponding color? Yep, I only found out just now after doing a lot of research regarding breast cancer.

Pink Power

When Mom passed away last August, I felt the need to spread awareness about breast cancer. Me and my siblings never took breast cancer seriously believing that Mom’s breast cancer will not come back. And that is because there are a lot of things that we don’t know about breast cancer.

I already made the draft of this article last September only to find out during my research that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Indeed, there is no coincidence in God’s plans. And if you’re wondering where I got the pink cap and the pink ribbon pin, I had them already during then Vice President Leni Robredo’s campaign, who’s also an advocate of breast cancer. A coworker of my husband gave the cap and pin to him, but I only wore them just now.

I have to thank my chubby cheeks for making me look like a teen (plus 20 years). 😀

Btw, just a little bit of trivia, Leni Robredo was born and grew up in my hometown, Bulan, here in Sorsogon. I am a very big fan of hers, and I never got the chance to meet her in person during the 2022 Philippine presidential election campaign period. Because you guessed that right, I was stuck at home because of my allergic rhinitis.

Challenges And Breakthroughs

During my research, I discovered a whole lot of information about breast cancer that I didn’t know before. It was like a plethora of facts and data that are readily available any time you need them. For one, CRISPR technology and AI innovations being used for treatments are getting more nods from investors. And it won’t be long now before scientists and researchers make a breakthrough that will allow safer use of the technologies to treat a wide range of medical conditions like brain diseases, cancer, and Autism.

I also encountered the term “holistic medicine” for the first time though I’m a bit familiar with holistic approaches because we use the same techniques when dealing with a special child in Special Education. All these data brought me to a realization that the country’s health care system really needs all the help it can get.

For breast cancer here in the Philippines, I agree with what was stated in this scientific journal regarding the need for the medical industry to amp cancer screening and early detection opportunities most especially in underserved communities. In my Mom’s case, for example, it was already too late when we found out her breast cancer had come back.

A Breast Cancer Patient’s Journey

Out of my need to learn more about a breast cancer patient’s treatment journey, I joined several breast cancer support groups on social media. l wanted to know how each patient differs from the other in terms of the severity of their health condition, how each patient manages the pain, what are their challenges, and how their families cope with the patient’s situation.

I know you will ask me, too. “Tin, how did you take it all in knowing one day you might go through the same situation as what they went through?“

My answer is simple: I take one breast cancer info at a time and gather as many as I can. So this means not just settling with what I can gather online, but more importantly, listening to what other breast cancer patients have to say.

Because I also felt this urge to help them in any way I can, may it be through info dissemination or finding opportunities to get financial support for their medications and hospitalization bills. There are a lot of gaps in the medical industry that need to be filled in, but I am very grateful that we have organizations and institutions that are determined to remove these roadblocks in order to provide better healthcare services.

More Opportunities To Get Tested

It’s a lot of work, but I have faith that God will continue to open more opportunities for the benefit of every patient. I actually am very grateful when I found out there is a way to detect if you are at high risk for breast cancer without waiting for a lump to appear on the breast. It’s called the BRCA 1/2 Germline Mutation Analysis Test.

“BRCA 1/2 Germline Mutation Analysis Test

Identifies germline mutations in the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes alongside other key mutations involved in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. It is useful for prognosis, treatment guidance, and screening in high-risk family members for the purposes of cancer prevention and early detection.

(Sample type: blood)” – Philippine Genome Laboratory

The test is also available at St. Luke’s Hospital and Hi-Precision Diagnostic Center. It requires a doctor’s referral, so it’s best to consult with your doctor first.

Time To Prepare

I haven’t had mine yet since my 2019 2D and 3D breast ultrasound results came out negative, but I know I am already due for my next checkup. I just need to sort a lot of things at the moment and I am in the process of making plans. This will include making financial preparations, hiring a stay-in house help, adjusting my work schedule and farm tasks, convincing my 3 older sisters and brother to get the test with me, etc.

I make a lot of plans to avoid any hassle in the future, and eventually minimize stress. Some of these plans will change, depending on what God’s plans are. But it’s better to have a plan than to have none at all. Situations only become too difficult to manage and can be very stressful when you’re unprepared. I plan on having the checkup possibly in 1st quarter of next year after the holidays if God wills it.

Because if ever my test results come out with positive findings, I don’t want to ruin the holiday spirit. I also need to prepare my husband and my family emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and financially.

This is also one of the reasons why I am not going back to Manila with my husband this October even if he wants me to because I don’t want him to see me in pain if ever I am diagnosed (now or later) with breast cancer. I saw how devastated my Dad was when he found out Mom’s cancer came back. It was too painful for our Dad to see my Mom suffer, and I don’t want my husband to go through the same thing.

A Fallen Soldier, A Hard-Fought Battle

Though I really would like to thank my Mom’s doctors, especially her oncologist (thank you so much, Doc Leones!), for the very effective pain management. There was even a time when she told us that she didn’t expect chemo to be that good. I was like to my siblings, “Is Mom trying to cajole us into getting her transferred from the ICU to the private room that’s why she’s telling us that chemo feels good? Because if not, then she would really make a very good chemo ambassadress.” 😀

Unfortunately, Mom still lost the fight because it’s time for her to go. My Mom’s battle with breast cancer might be over, but mine has only begun. And it starts with breast cancer awareness. I know I am not alone in this journey though and so are you. ❤

A Prayer For Breast Cancer Warriors

If you are currently battling with breast cancer or know someone who is, here are some of the links I found over the internet that might help you and your family in dealing with breast cancer. I am also covering everyone who is going through their breast cancer treatments with prayers for healing, provisions, comfort, and peace. May God be with us always, and may His grace be sufficient enough as we go through this trial of breaking this generational curse. 🙏

Source: Philippine Star

Cancer Assistance Fund

https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/health-and-family/2023/03/28/2255071/national-integrated-cancer-control-act-how-access-cancer-assistance-fund-and-malasakit-center-part-2

DBM Sets Aside Funds For Cancer 

https://mb.com.ph/2023/8/21/dbm-commits-support-for-filipino-cancer-patients

Medical Assistance

https://www.philcancer.org.ph/index.php/services/medical-assistance

How Can I Reduce My Risk of BC

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/prevention.htm

Mammogram Test Price – Philippines

https://medicalpinas.com/mammogram-test-price-in-philippine-hospitals-and-clinics/

FACEBOOK BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

Breast Cancer Warriors and Survivors Philippines

https://m.facebook.com/groups/800733357455756/?ref=share&mibextid=GNKG2g

Cancer-Free Philippines

https://m.facebook.com/groups/341428935940642/?ref=share&mibextid=GNKG2g

Philippine Cancer Patients Group

https://m.facebook.com/groups/468435910580076/?ref=share&mibextid=GNKG2g

Breast Cancer Warriors 2

https://m.facebook.com/groups/544049840834038/?ref=share&mibextid=GNKG2g

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2023 (US)

https://m.facebook.com/groups/breastcancerawarenessmonth/?ref=share&mibextid=GNKG2g

“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her.” – Luke 1:45

“I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life.” – Deuteronomy 30:19

P.S. Here are some links to online stores (not my sponsors) where you can buy pretty wigs. Pls. do share in the comment section below if you know other online stores that sell wigs. I might buy one for myself because who says you have to wait to be bald to wear one. If it looks good on you, wear it. 😉

Chloe Bean – Wig (US)

https://www.facebook.com/reel/855448396207915/

Wigs (Philippines)

https://www.lynellehair.com/synthetic-wigs

https://www.mermaidmanilahair.com/