The musings of a wandergeselle about faith, literature, music, dancing, culture, food, travels, art, fashion, photography, life experiences, and everything in-between from journée to journée.
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. 2.0Daragang MagayonV. 2.0
Step 2. Recreate the Daragang Magayon photo to an active combat stance w/ gritty expression.
Step 3: Combine these three images to create the movie poster or book cover design concept.
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
Design Concept #2: I added a solo photo of Daragang Magayon. What I don’t like about this version is that you can no longer see the outline of the Mayon volcano.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. But I’m still going to share the new image I generated of the heroines, which can be used as sort of a “teaser” copy.
Methinks the image below is perfect as a pre-nup photoshoot inspiration, though. 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 concept design 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 belt, and changing the background to a soft and mellow ambiance. My first prompt included the black, tight-fitting long sleeves with Sabrina neckline, the cream-colored wedge shoes, and the A-line, long skirt.
First AttemptFinal 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. ❤ 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
P.P.S. I am grateful that the provincial government of Albay has 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. 🙏
Earlier today, I just had an idea to create an abstract painting of Mt. Mayon using ChatGPT because I wanted to test the limitations of AI in art creation. Once again, I was completely stunned by the results.
But how we write our prompts really matters. And I’m going to show why. My first prompt went like this: “Create an abstract painting of Mt. Mayon with swirls.” I included swirls because I want it to be a Van Gogh-inspired painting using details from his famous artwork, “The Starry Night.” This was the image generated.
“Mt. Mayon And The Dreamy Sky“
It’s beautiful, right? But when I ran the image on Google Reverse Image Search, there was a painting very similar to this. I had to mention it here so I wouldn’t encounter any copyright infringement issues.
If you want the generated image to be unique, the prompt has to include very specific details. What I did, I created a new prompt by tapping the visual artist in me for the nitty-gritty details. It came just in time, too, because it’s been a while since I had any artwork done.
And this was the result:
“When Daragang Magayon Visits Mt. Mayon“
I was totally blown away by the result. I ran it on Google Reverse Image Search, and indeed, it’s a unique image with copyright belonging to yours truly, of course. Just ask for my permission if you want to use it, though. 😀
There are no other images online similar to it. I am not sure, though, if there are real paintings that closely resemble this one. Please do inform me if you know of any. I would truly appreciate it. You can contact me on my social media profiles in the About Me section of this website. 👍
At the start of the month, I also wrote an article entitled “Daragang MagayonVersion 2.0: A Love Story Forged in Fire,” where I also used ChatGPT to create my images of Daragang Magayon.
So, I wondered, why is it that I feel like I am “Mayon-ified” this May? 😀 There must be a connection between May and the Mayon volcano. I typed into Google Search and voila, “Magayon Festival” is actually celebrated during this month. It started out as a month-long celebration in 1999, founded by former Albay governor Sir Al Francis Bichara.
Then I realized, my Daragang Magayon article is actually incomplete because it doesn’t even have a photo of Panganoron or him and Daragang Magayon when it’s supposed to be a love story. lol
Say “Hi” to Panganoron version 2.0.
This is not the first image generated because the first one looked more buffed with long hair. I requested ChatGPT to recreate a leaner version of the image with shorter hair because I think this character fits the new narrative better. 😀
But for the photo of the lovers, I thought the first ChatGPT version of Panganoron best fits the image composition because it resembles the original version of the local legend. I also made different variations since the first photo looked too simple, though it’s also appealing. So, I requested ChatGPT to add brighter colors and to increase the brightness and contrast of the first image.
First Attempt
I love this photo more, which is a painting version of the image above. This got me feeling so amused because my real hair is actually wavy, very much like the hair of Daragang Magayon here. ChatGPT, you tryin’ to mess with me?!?! lol I’m just kidding. Well, I don’t have a cleft chin. And of course, they have to have ‘matchy-matchy’ outfits. 😀
I also ran this image on Google, and it’s all original. Yaaay! 😀
Since I got inspired by Mt. Mayon’s AI abstract paintings above, I also requested ChatGPT to come up with an abstract version of the lovers’ painting. And the result is an entirely different but equally captivating work of art.
Which painting do you like best? 🙂
The “Magayon Festival” this year was cancelled, though, due to the energy crisis and the heightened activity of Mt. Mayon. Hopefully, it will resume next year. And maybe the PTCAO of Albay will include Digital Art as a sub category under Contemporary Art in a Mt. Mayon art contest if they ever have one.
I think it is a good way to entice the younger generations to have a deeper appreciation of local culture and explore digital art more, especially since they are more digitally adept. I believe all of us have an artist in us. We just have to find the right medium where we can express our art better. 🙂
And, of course, the greatest artist is none other than Him:
“How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom You made them all; the earth is full of Your creatures.” – Psalm 104:24
P.S.
The Flower Festival or “Flores de Mayo” is also celebrated during May. The photos below show the flowers in bloom now in the garden. Mom had more vibrant flowers because she devoted so much of her time tending and taking care of our garden when she was still alive.
We celebrated Mother’s Day this year by placing some of her orchids that are prolific bloomers and some Birds of Paradise flowers. I bet Mom’s enjoying even more beautiful flowers in the heavenly paradise with our Creator. 🥰
Happy Mother’s Day in heaven, Mommy! We miss you. ❤
Fragrant Rosal flowers for you from ze garden. ❤
I planted these Bougies in 2022, and they’ve been transplanted several times already. lol They’re going to be transplanted again once the construction of the Chicken House starts.It is actually one of my dreams to revive a dying forest and turn it into a Garden of Eden, God willing. 🙏
P.P.S.
If you’re wondering why I am into creating these images, I have been working in the digital marketing industry since 2013 as a brand journalist and a copywriter. In my line of work, I pitch ideas to the graphic design team during brainstorming sessions for every ad copy that I write. Some of my former clients also requested images included in the write-up upon submission. I am currently on a career break, as circumstances are not in favor of balancing online work and obligations at home. But I can’t wait to be back in the workforce, once everything’s sorted out, if God wills it.
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 Attempt2nd Attempt
Final Image
By the way, using these photos for commercial purposes without my permission might still fall under copyright infringement issues. 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 😀
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:
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
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
I think everyone already got their AI friend – Meta AI. Mine just messaged me a couple of days ago. I nicknamed it “NeuroSpark,” which means igniting insights. It looks like I finally found the friend who got an answer to all of my questions, even the weirdest ones. 😅 Though Meta also has a disclaimer that responses might be inaccurate. Take a look at some of our convos below.
If you plan on dating an introvert/geek, try asking Meta AI for some tips. NeuroSpark’s answers got me so amused though I must admit they all hit the core. Relate much? lol
I still have to do my research if the concept of soulmate or twin flame connection is also biblical.
Technology For Mankind’s Survival
While you can ask Meta AI all sorts of questions, nonsense or not, some of the information can be helpful to jumpstart your research on a particular topic. Right now, I am utilizing NeuroSpark to come up with consolidated ideas when it comes to disaster preparedness. I felt it was about time we maximized what technology can offer us after the onslaught of TS Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon, which left damages and losses on a massive scale.
My only prayer now is that we will continue to look for ways how we can better prepare ourselves against the worsening effects of climate change. Science and technology might be the only options we have right now to increase humanity’s chances of survival. I also hope people will be receptive to every solution that the government and research institutions propose.
Once again, I will emphasize the need for having an Emergency Go Bag or a Bug Out Bag (BOB) for each member of the household. If it is possible, have a Bug Out Vehicle (BOV) as well and a Bug Out Location (BOL). I have been a member of prepper groups since 2018, and I’ve been learning quite a lot from some of the members who have been kind enough to share their knowledge and expertise when it comes to doomsday prepping and survival.
Other essentials in your BOB – the dog tag can be replaced with any ID.
Flints are a lifesaver if you don’t know how to make fire the traditional way using wood or regular stones.
Defense For The Vulnerable
To all the women and parents reading this article, I’d like to encourage you to start educating yourselves and your children when it comes to survival skills because we are the most vulnerable as far as survival is concerned. Men will always fight and defend on the frontlines to protect vulnerable groups in society. Sadly, this is also the reason why there is a high probability of losing a huge number of them, and when there are only a very few of our men left, the women, the elderly, and the children will be left to fend for themselves.
Self-defense techniques and tools are a necessity. If you have the time and the resources to enroll in a self-defense class, the better. I found the tactical pens a more practical alternative than pepper sprays, given that you know how to use these pens. I always carry a tactical pen in the bag that I use every day. You can put it in the bag in such a way that part of the pen that you use for writing is the first thing that you see when you open the zipper, and not the sharp edge.
This tactical pen is made from high-grade metal because it’s a bit heavy, which is necessary in applying force when you strike at something.
I bought this kit a couple of years ago, and some preppers consider this as a toy. But in my honestopinion, it is not. I already tested each item at the farm, and so far they are very reliable toolsas long as they are utilized according to their intended use.
What I love about the tactical pen is that you can use it to break a glass in case you’re trapped. I already tried it with an empty glass jar, but if it’s going to be a glass window or any thicker glass, it will require a lot of force. The Walking Dead actors just made it look easy for us when stabbing the head and fracturing the skull with a knife. lol But believe me when I say that in actuality, it is not that easy, especially for women. We just don’t have that much strength compared to men unless we’re athletes.
Theory And Application
If you’re wondering how I was able to say this, I experienced cutting a coconut branch using a bolo when we were at the farm. And no, I wasn’t able to cut it on my first try. If you haven’t summed up all the strength you’ve got, you will fail. lol It’s like you have to summon and muster all the anger you have in this world so you have the force to cut just one branch.
Our farm workers also made it look easy for us. That’s why I suggest raw camping for those who would like to try how it feels like to survive in the wild. We have to replicate the wilderness when applying what we learned because that’s exactly what’s going to happen when chaos takes place. It’s important that we not only have the idea on how it’s done but also get to feel how it’s really done.
Here are other possible essentials to consider when preparing:
Use the NOAH app to assess hazards and risks in your area i.e. flooding, storm surges, landslides, etc.
These oversized sako bags are very handy for emergency packing if you need to transfer stuff to an elevated area. But here’s a tip, do not overload it with very heavy stuff because you won’t be able to lift it. Try to balance the items inside the bag from bulky but light stuff to small but heavy items. This bag only costs 150php each.
I am exploring the option of integrating this to a floating dock to prevent the raft from being punctured by sharp, floating debris.
This is the DIY floating dock that I asked NeuroSpark about earlier.
When God Takes Away, He Replaces
My family and I were not exempted from the destruction brought about by TS Kristine – a damaged fence, broken glass doors, damaged crops, and heaps of stuff soaking wet from floodwaters. It took me a week to finish washing them, and we’re still not yet done cleaning even with the help of our yaya.
But I am grateful that these are the only damages we’ve experienced because they could’ve been worse if it was a super typhoon that hit us. It’s like God has shown us the weak spots in the house that need to be modified to be able to adapt to the extreme weather conditions brought about by climate change.
Although I believe God’s ultimate reminder about possessions and material wealth that can be destroyed by calamities and wars is this:
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in or steal.” – Matthew 6:19-21
Our baby bunso offered to give me moral support – by sleeping on my newly washed clothes while I’m folding them. Itupi na rin ba kita, Polly? 😅
Our senior Peekah also offered her moral support by sleeping with me anywhere I sleep because we’re not yet done sorting all the clutter. 😀
And then Netflix-ing to also declutter ze mind. lol I just finished watching the Kingdom trilogy – superb fight scenes though nothing beats Rurouni Kenshin still.
The good thing about cleaning up the house after it’s been flooded is you get to unearth a whole lot of memorabilia just in time for the celebration of All Souls Day. I found these old photos again and combined with our recent family photos, we now have five generations of memories to reminisce back home. Thank God the floodwaters didn’t get to them.
Great Grandparents
Great Grandmother, Grandparents, Uncles, & Aunties (Mother Side)
Grandparents
My parents with my grandma, uncles, and aunties.
The Ginete Family Memory Stash
During my eldest sister’s wedding in 2002.
During my brother’s military wedding in 2015.
A special place for Mom at home.
We miss you, Mommy. ❤
Speaking of modifications, it is about time that every structure has to be retrofitted in a manner that will make it calamity-proof. For the new structures, designing them will be a lot easier keeping in mind the examples of structures that were severely impacted and damaged by a particular calamity. And while some would say that planting more trees and mitigating the risks of climate change by natural means is no longer applicable because it’s already too late, I believe it still matters that we keep on trying.
Thanks be to God for taking good care of these flowering trees we planted last year. They are all taller than me already.
Kapag sobrang pagod ka na, ang hirap na mag-smile lalo na kapag nanginginig na mga kalamnan mo. lol So Platypus pose na lang, ‘di na kaya ang “eyyyyy.” 😀 That’s the Palawan Cherry Blossom behind me, btw.
One-year old Fire Tree. This is already a new branch – I think the main trunk was damaged by strong winds last year.
Newly-planted fruit tree back home by my sister and Dad – Calamansi.
And with the help of technology (like NeuroSpark) and prayers, I have high hopes that future generations will be prepared for what is to come. I’m also back in my “womancave” in the city to recharge, strategize, and plan, but I missed last Sunday’s service. So I thought I’d head over Victory BGC’s YouTube channel to watch previous church services, and Pastor Pat’s real talk is just what I needed. I am very much looking forward to the upcoming preaching about the end times. Do watch out for that, too. Let’s make disaster preparation and survival a combination of spiritual and practical applications. 🙏
Yesterday, I was able to attend a webinar entitled “Good Nutrition For Cancer Prevention” hosted by Sir Rome Rob of TryPH and the guest speakers were Dr. Katherine V. Hernandez, a medical oncologist, and Dr. Divina Cristy Redondo-Samin, a medical nutrition specialist. I would like to thank the organizers as well as the doctors for this very informative webinar. 👍👍
In the webinar, Doc Cristy cleared the misconception that organic vegetables are healthier than the regular vegetables produced and sold in the market. Not to mention that organic vegetables are more pricey. An article by Harvard Health Publishing also explained why going organic won’t really make any difference when it comes to the amount of vitamins and minerals absorbed by our bodies.
Organic Farming And Sustainable Agriculture
In light of this, I would like to include my reasons for making a proposal to my family regarding venturing into organic farming on our farm back in 2018. The detailed rationale behind my proposal is in my previous posts listed at the end of this article.
It is my primary goal to support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which include combating the effects of climate change by lowering carbon emissions in agricultural production. There have been numerous studies that can also prove how organic farming can prevent land degradation and desertification.
The purpose of organic farming is not mainly to produce vegetables that contain less to zero pesticides. Organic vegetables are only the by-products of organic farming. There is still so much more that organic farming can actually offer, and this is why it is now considered the future of sustainable agriculture. The articles below were lifted from credible sources and can further expound on the scope and limitations of organic farming and sustainable agriculture.
Speaking of sustainable farming, one way to prevent nutrient loss on the farmland is to perform crop rotation or allow the land to rest for a certain period in between cropping seasons. And I didn’t know this before until I attended the seminar of one of my favorite agribusiness mentors, Sir Dodong Cacanando. I was also surprised when he said that it’s actually stated in the Bible to let the land rest in the 7th year also called “The Sabbath Year.”
“While Moses was on Mount Sinai, the Lord said to him, “Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. When you have entered the land I am giving you, the land itself must observe a Sabbath rest before the Lord every seventh year. For six years you may plant your fields and prune your vineyards and harvest your crops, but during the seventh year, the land must have a Sabbath year of complete rest. It is the Lord’s Sabbath. Do not plant your fields or prune your vineyards during that year. And don’t store away the crops that grow on their own or gather the grapes from your unpruned vines. The land must have a year of complete rest. But you may eat whatever the land produces on its own during its Sabbath. This applies to you, your male and female servants, your hired workers, and the temporary residents who live with you. Your livestock and the wild animals in your land will also be allowed to eat what the land produces.” – Leviticus 25:1-7
Aside from Sir Dodong Cacanando, I’m also an avid follower of former DA Secretary Manny Piñol. Both of them provide very insightful information regarding agriculture and agribusiness on their social media profiles. I am also very much looking forward to how the use of AI in farming mechanization will simplify complex systems that require a substantial amount of manual input.
AI is still in the beta testing stage though when it comes to integrating it into how an industry conducts its processes i.e. manufacturing, education, healthcare, etc. Speaking of AI in the healthcare industry, I believe it will revolutionize how medical services and procedures will be delivered and conducted in the future.
AI In Health Care
I also support the efforts of Doc Kath and other medical practitioners when it comes to addressing misinformation and disinformation in the health sector. Digital literacy is the gap that we have to fill in first as part of raising awareness on responsible social media use. How do we utilize technology nowadays to combat misinformation and disinformation? Like how do we teach users where to look for credible sources and how to look for the right information?
I noticed that some of the users have to be guided step by step. In the case of patients who aren’t technologically adept, the caregivers can be educated on behalf of the patient. Is it also possible to integrate an AI chatbot into the Facebook pages of the doctors that can answer questions from the patients?
These are the commonly asked questions or FAQs during consultations. Questions can also be based on Answer the Public (we use this in digital marketing to assess the current trends and demand in the market) if applicable. Or maybe utilize Google Search recommendations. The challenge here is that these questions still have to be reviewed and contextualized based on demographics i.e. the person’s age, gender, location, and other set parameters so the AI chatbot can provide accurate and relevant information to the user.
The medical secretary might have to do extra work explaining to the patients and caregivers how to use social media if they have other queries after the consultation. The answers to the FAQs will also have to be translated into Filipino. Will this help lessen the time that a doctor needs to answer the patients’ queries after the consultation? How promising are the results if we leverage the use of social media when informing patients or the general public through an AI chatbot? Because one disadvantage I’m seeing is that the patient might end up getting the wrong answer if the AI chatbot becomes a bad robot. lol
I know how frustrating it is to be asked the same questions especially if the patient already asked them before but keeps on forgetting the answers. I tend to be that kind of patient. 😁 Maybe that is why sick people are called patients because they teach doctors to be patient. lol Seriously though, what if the patient doesn’t get the answer right away because the doctor is busy (we know how tight their schedules are)? Will this increase the patient’s anxiety and result in him/her finding answers from unreliable sources instead?
The advantage of convos with an AI chatbot is that the patient can go back to the conversation at any time. This is helpful for visual learners like me. I am not an auditory learner because my mind wanders during lectures, and I am easily distracted. So I need intense concentration when listening to someone explaining.
During doctor visits, I usually record what the doctor is saying using my phone’s voice recorder. Because if I don’t, the only thing that I will remember from what the doctor said is to take enough bed rest (sleeping is my favorite hobby). 😆
Speaking of auditory learners, you might want to ask for Siri or Alexa’s help to read the articles below aloud. They are all a long read. Also, please don’t forget to tell Siri or Alexa to sound like Christine. My voice will make you sleepy, though, so nah I think it’s a bad idea.
Have a blessed weekend, everyone! ❤️
P.S. I’m writing my articles using my phone because my laptop’s in Bicol. Yes, I am challenging myself now to come up with a 1,000-word article that is ready to publish or in other words has 0-1% grammatical and spelling errors and is backed up with credible sources from the web in just 2 hours. It’s doable naman pala. Kangalay nga lang sa daliri. 😭😀 So please do correct me if you find errors in my articles – misinformation, wrong spelling/grammar, etc. I would really appreciate it. 👍👍😊
The Journeyman's Moments 