Epicenter location of the quake

As of this writing, one dead has already been reported a child from the Municipality of Tansay in Negros Oriental in the Visayas who was run over by a wall when the tremor was felt. A Tsunami alert level 2 has already been raised by PAG-ASA on the sea shores of Cebu and Negros. Electricity and communication (cell phone signal) has been cut as a precautionary measure.

With the recent calamity that struck Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao, I’m urging my readers to please pray for the safety of everybody affected. God bless us all

The buddies just landed

Amontay Beach Resort

It was already past six in the evening when the group left Butuan en route to Amontay Beach Resort in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The moment we set foot at the place, the ever usual picture taking started to sway. Given a choice of staying in an air-conditioned room, we opted to check-in in a Bali-inspired cabana just along the sea shore. The place was cool. We got two cabanas to accommodate all the six of us in the group. After sorting out our stuff, we immediately buckled down to a sumptuous dinner. We feted ourselves with pork adobo, “Kinilaw” (raw fish sauté with vinegar and spices), and roasted chicken (litson manok). After eating, we sang our hearts out at the resort’s videoke bar. Adding glitter to the singing was of course a couple of bottles of RH Beer and Gilbery’s Gin. My girl, Pett decided to take an early off as she slept early, a thing she seldom does with her work being on a graveyard shift. We didn’t finish the night after our time was off at the videoke bar when we decided to transfer at the sea shore and continued chatting, laughing and drinking till dawn. While we were drinking, there suddenly appeared the beautiful Rosie. We were stunned by her hugeness and beautiful body. She was so friendly and amiable. We were all attracted. Yes, we, all of us. What a beautiful deer.

Mayetster on the Mic

Noy Singing his heart's out

Baby eat na, later na pose

Tsibugan Time

Me and My Girl

Noy and Woody with the "L" sign

Drinking and chatting at dawn

My Pretty Girl, Pett

The group with "Rosie"

Woody, for the love of TBKK

For my personal review on Amontay Beach Resort please click this link: http://pinoyleisure.blogspot.com/2012/01/amontay-beach-resort.html

The “Call” and the “Marang”

Early morning the following day, after taking our coffee, the group suddenly decided that we proceed to Gingoog City, the place of Pett. With everybody feeling so excited, we immediately packed our stuff and boarded the van and went off the road. While still on the road, somebody called up Woody, it was….hmmmm we all wondered. Why the sudden call? Is it something really very important? Ahh…it was nothing pressing after all. We just took a big….LAUGH. Probably some “L” of it .

We were about twenty kilometers from Gingoog when we saw people selling “Marang” (a native fruit) beside the road. Suddenly, everybody craved for it. Woody immediately stepped on the brakes and there we were at the roadside gnawing our hearts out with the sweetness and juiciness of the fruit. After our “Marang” cravings, we went back to the van and went back on the road.

Gnawing the "Marang"

Lollipop: Marang flavor

Gingoog City and “Mama Malay”

We finally got to the place of Pett in Gingoog City past eleven in the morning. And there was Pett’s Mom who feted us with a very sumptuous lunch. I have been a great lover of native food all my life but this time it was different. The kind of taste that “Mama Malay” prepared was truly awesome and tasteful. Her “Kinilaw” was sauté not only with vinegar but was marinated at first with soda; this resulted in the fish becoming sweeter than the usual. The grilled fish (a tail of a big “Bareles” fish) and pork (belly part) was even more special since it was mixed with syrup usually sauced for pancakes. Truly, a masterpiece recipe of “Mama Malay.” Everybody just “gluttoned” to the very tasteful food “Mama Malay” prepared for us.

Welcome to Gingoog City

Mayetster in Action

The group with "Mama Malay" standing

Ready to Eat

The Grilled Pork

The "Kinilaw"

The Grilled Tuna Tail

Tiklas Falls

After the very sumptuous meal feted by “Mama Malay,” it was time to go for more adventure. We then boarded the van and went off to Tiklas Falls. It was about a 30-minute ride from Gingoog City proper in going to the place. When we arrived at the area, I could already sense the beauty that lies with it. Indeed, we were astounded with nature’s beauty. As Woody would put it, he could compare the scene it with the virgin-forest scenery of the movie Predator. Several meters from the actual falls, you could already hear the massive drop of water into the river bed. While Jhun and Woody could not resist dipping into the water where the falls actually fell, I, Mayetster and Pett contented ourselves with the pool for which the source of water is also natural coming from the mountain. Pett was patient enough to teach me have my body afloat the water but to no avail. Gosh, I was a poor leaner . Mayetster was just sitting at the stairway leading to the pool as according to her she could not swim (a former winner of swimming lessons in college at that ). Later, Woody, Noy and Jhun would join us at the pool. But what was more special in the place is the face of nature at its best. Truly refreshing.

The Gang at Tiklas Falls

Tiklas Falls: We were There

Mayetster by the Bridge in Tiklas

Mayetster with the massive water fall

Mayetster by the natural pool

For my personal review on Tiklas Falls, please click on this link: http://pinoyleisure.blogspot.com/2012/01/tiklas-falls.html

Gingoog Tatak Center and “Pahayahay sa Pantalan” (City Wharf)

After our trek at Tiklas Falls we went back to Pett’s place at about five in the afternoon to refresh. We did some wash up of our wet clothes while the others had coffee. At about a little over six in the evening, we went off to Tatak Park and the old wharf of the City dubbed “Pahayahay sa Pantalan.” Very artistic and funny photo shoot would then take place. Grahe Sidewalk Grill with “Papa Eton” After the photo shoot, we were treated with a dinner by Pett’s awesome Dad, “Papa Eton” at Grahe Sidewalk Grill at the heart of the City. The food was heavy and I couldn’t say more. Of course the photo op would not be absent as everybody was very eager to pose at their behest. “Papa Eton” was so generous enough to treat us with a dinner. Since singing was one of our passion (frustrated singers, all ), we followed the dinner with a videoke singing marathon. Little did we know that a song would further bind us more as we are about to unwind our “concert.” And that song later be “Salamat” (Thank You) sung by the group The Dawn. I know everybody in the group would agree that first and foremost, we dedicate it to a friend who we consider to be very dear, Ms. Daff . And to everybody as well, thank you We called the day off at already dawn the following day. We stayed at Pett’s place. No blankets, No air conditioned room, not enough pillows. What we have are just ourselves. And it made our sleep even more comfortable.

Winding up the photo shoot

Notice the person at the back

TBKK

Grahe Sidewalk Grill with “Papa Eton”

After the photo shoot, we were treated with a dinner by Pett’s awesome Dad, “Papa Eton” at Grahe Sidewalk Grill at the heart of the City.  The food was heavy and I couldn’t say more. Of course the photo op would not be absent as everybody was very eager to pose at their behest. “Papa Eton” was so generous enough to treat us with a dinner.

Since singing was one of our passion (frustrated singers, all :-) ), we followed the dinner with a videoke  singing marathon. Little did we know that a song would further bind us more as we are about to unwind our “concert.” And that song later be “Salamat” (Thank You) sung by the group The Dawn. I know everybody in the group would agree that first and foremost, we dedicate it to a friend who we consider to be very dear, Ms. Daff J. And to everybody as well, thank you.

We called the day off at already dawn the following day. We stayed at Pett’s place. No blankets, No air conditioned room, not enough pillows. What we have are just ourselves. And it made our sleep even more comfortable.

Jhun and Mayetster savoring the food at Grahe Sidewalk Grill

Mayetster with the burning "Grahe"

Chicken skin and "Isaw"

"Sisig" at Grahe

"Kinilaw" Grahe version

The Gang with Pett's Dad, "Papa Eton"

Me at the "burning" Grahe

Busy looking for Songs

Capistrano Beach Resort

Early morning we took our breakfast. Well, I only had coffee as I was used to it. After breakfast we immediately embarked the road and headed towards Medina in the Province of Misamis Oriental. Our destination: Capistrano Beach Resort. When we reach the place, the plan was actually to just take some pictures as we were only planning to spend more of our time somewhere. However, the beach was so inviting with its off-white sand that everybody could not resist dipping into the water. And there we were, myself, Woody and Jhun racing to get to the water as fast as we can. Although, nothing compared to Boracay’s as party capital, it still reminiscent of my previous travel to the island resort some years back with its serene water and white sand shore. Though short of time, we enjoyed our brief stay in the resort.

Woody and Jhun: Gone with the Wave

Jump shot

Mayetster: Day dreaming along the shore

My Pett and Me: Pre-nup?

The TBKK Gang of Four

Bye bye Woody

For my personal review on Capistrano Beach Resort, please click on this link: http://pinoyleisure.blogspot.com/2012/01/capistrano-beach-resort.html

Alibuag Cold Spring

Just about two hundred meters of a little uphill climb from Capistrano Beach Resort, we proceeded to Alibuag Cold Spring. The spring was chilly-cold as I could no longer bear it . But Woody and Jhun were unstoppable. They dove and enjoyed its freeze-cold, crystal clear water. Another nature trip for us and we truly enjoyed the place.

Mayetster taking a dip

At the Cottage in Alibuag Cold Spring

Woody's own adventure

Woody under the clear crystal water of Alibuag

For my personal review on this link, please click on this link: http://pinoyleisure.blogspot.com/2012/01/alibuag-cold-spring.html

Marcos Park

After the 3-day travel, I thought that it would just end there. We were en route to Butuan City when we reached the Municipality of Carmen in the Province of Agusan del Norte and decided to pass by Marcos Park. It was top hill view of Butuan Bay and Butuan City itself. The scenic view of mountain ranges as well as the broad view of the sea was so invigorating. We would not miss the photo op with this kind of view, we surmised. And there we were as cameras roll alternately for all of us.

The Buddies

Proclamation Rally at Marcos Park?

Incredible Pett

I love you baby <3

Me and My Pett: Pre-Nup II?

Overall, I can declare that it was one of the best travels I ever had in my life. The beautiful places and food was complimented with the wonderful people I was with throughout. We owe it to our unnamed matron and sponsor. Thank you so much for the trust and confidence in all of us. Thank you for giving as an unparalleled joy of traveling with everyone. To Mayetster, Woody, Jhun, Noy (and that includes you, Lyn) and my girl Pett, thank you for being part of the journey. This does not end here; we shall trek, climb and surmount whatever lies ahead. Together we will make TBKK big and bold!

According to psychologists Nathaniel Branden and Robert Sternberg, who have both researched and written about the challenges of romantic relationships, these little displays of interest and affection can be more important than all the “active listening” and trust games in the world. Their research has suggested 10 keys to keeping both partners content, satisfied, and happy with each other.

1. Tell your partner you love them.

Although it’s true that actions speak louder than words, words often speak more clearly than actions. Take a moment every now and then to verbalize your feelings for your partner. A simple “I love you” or “You mean the world to me” can go a long way towards making your significant other feel wanted, cared for, and secure in your relationship.

2. Show some affection.

Small acts of physical intimacy – the hand on the small of the back as you brush by in the hallway, your arm around their shoulder on the sofa, your hand on their thigh when seated side-by-side, holding hands while walking down the street – give your partner a warm feeling and convey the love and affection you feel for them. The littlest touch can be as important, or evenmore important, than the longest night of sexual intimacy.

3. Show appreciation for your partner.

Let your partner know on a regular basis what it is that you like most about them – what you admire, what makes you proud, what their strengths are in your eyes. Building a romantic relationship isn’t jsut about the initial bonding – it’s about encouraging and supporting each other’s growth over the course of your lives. Help your partner achieve his or her potential by constantly building them up.

4. Share yourself.

Don’t keep your likes and dislikes, dreams and fears, achievements and mistakes, or anything else to yourself. If it’s important to you, share it with your partner. More than that, be sure to share more with your partner than you do with anyone else. While there is certainly a need for some personal space in even the closest relationship, give as much of yourself and your time as you can bear to your partner.

5. Be there for your partner.

It’s obvious what you need to do when your partner faces a major life challenge like the loss of a job or the death of a loved one. But it’s just as important to be supportive when your partner faces life’s little challenges, too – an argument at work, a rough commute, a misplaced check. Don’t let yourself be a doormat, and definitely don’t stand for physical or verbal abuse, but thicken your skin a little and be the voice of calm and reason when chaos strikes. Listen to what’s bothering them and offer whatever help – even if it’s just sympathy – you can.

6. Give gifts.

Take advantages of opportunities to give material tokens of your love. Just the right book picked up at the bookstore, a special dessert, a piece of jewelry or clothing you noticed at the store – anything small or large that tells them you were thinking of them. Leave a love note for them, or send them an SMS at work to “I love you” – again, the little reminder that they’re always on your mind will help your partner feel better about themselves and secure in your relationship.

7. Respond gracefully to your partner’s demands and shortcomings.

A big killer of relationships is unreasonable expectations. Unless you married a robot, your partner comes pre-loaded with a whole range of human failures and foibles. These are features, not bugs! Learn to recognize and appreciate your partner’s quirks for what they are: an essential part of who they are as people. Since our weaknesses are often at the core of our deepest insecurities, make sure you don’t pick on or otherwise go out of your way to highlight your partner’s flaws.

8. Make “alone time” a priority.

No matter how busy both of your lives are, make sure you commit at least an evening every week or two to be alone together. Have new experiences, share your stories, and just generally enjoy each other’s company.

9. Take nothing for granted.

Cultivate a daily sense of gratitude for your partner and the thousands of little blessings he or she has brought into your life. Remember that, if you’re happy in your relationship, your partner is doing a thousand little things for you every day to make your relationship work (as, hopefully, you are for them). Never take that for granted – a relationship is work of the highest order, and the second you stop it starts to slide away.

10. Strive for equality.

Make sure you follow the Golden Rule in your relationship: do unto your partner as you would have done unto you. Strive for a fair division of household duties and other tasks, and don’t expect or demand special considerations you’d be unwilling to offer in return.

Guerilla type of marketing is an unconventional approach to a campaign veering away from the usual big budget campaign that is usually done by marketing people. It is usually targeted in unexpected places, and done in a more innovative way. Guerrilla marketing involves unusual approaches such as intercept encounters in public places, street giveaways of products, PR stunts, or any unconventional marketing intended to get maximum results from minimal resources. Emphasis is on retaining existing customers then acquiring new ones. More innovative approaches to Guerrilla marketing now utilize mobile digital technologies to engage the consumer and create a memorable brand experience. The spate of “spam” texts from network providers prevalent in the Philippines is just one way of guerilla marketing that is already been abused at times. This is clearly veering away from the usual media marketing campaigns but rather using the technology that these companies offer as a tool to increasing their engagement with their customers. Jay Conrad Levinson, in his book “The Guerilla Marketing Handbook” said that: “In order to sell a product or a service, a company must establish a relationship with the customer. It must build trust and support. It must understand the customer’s needs, and it must provide a product that delivers the promised benefits.” This principle is clearly manifested in the Philippines in the war of wireless technology between three telecom giants Smart, Globe and Sun. Undoubtedly, Smart gained the upper hand in this war when it revolutionized the use of mobile phones from being a status symbol and luxury in the mid-90s to being a vital gadget that one cannot live without in his daily activities. This strategy is guerilla marketing at its best.

The concept of selling “tingi” in the Philippines is also a unique form of capturing the mass market dominated by a “not-so-powerful” consumer. By this, it simply means a consumer market who can only afford so much that they would rather buy the “piece meal” products rather going for the “whole meal” which, in the strictest sense of the word could have save them more. There is also what we call the “unlimited” fever in the Philippines which uses the “price discount strategy” where the new player in the telecoms industry offered a comparable product at a very low price. This has, in fact, become a fever not only in the telecoms industry but in the food industry as well. At a time when the Philippines had a “food shortage” problem, an upstart food chain offered “unlimited” rice in their menu that caught the interest of the consuming public. History would tell us, that it was a very effective guerilla marketing campaign done by “Mang Inasal” which catapulted them as the fastest growing food chain in the Philippines in recent years.

Guerilla marketing can come in many forms just like any product can come in any sizes. But the most important thing in this kind of campaign it to be innovative. Veering away from the usual marketing stuff and creating a buzz in the consumer’s mind should be foremost in the objective. Taking the marketing war in an unexpected and unconventional way will often win the battle for supremacy and capturing a more sizeable market.

Pictures truly speak a thousand words

Psychology studies have proven that visual presentations tend to attract more people to notice an article. By showing images, this increases the number of impressions and higher degree of engagement to your product. Getting across a message with pictures makes your presentation more attractive thereby making it stand out in news feeds. Even blog posts impart a more meaningful message with images attached to it even with minor narratives. You can even attach an image first so much so that it now becomes a focal point in your blog. This has become more effective than text quotes that go along with it.

Timely posting

Great timing is of the essence. As a habit, people would glue to Facebook and other social networking sites after a long day’s work. A recent study presented that brands that were posted after “normal” business hours saw an increase of 20% engagement when compared to those posted during business hours. One should take note that engagement means that more people seeing your post as they find it more relevant. Every time a post is “liked” or being shared increases the chances of it being read by more people.

Meaty content

Nothing can ever substitute an article with a very nice content. One word can spell a lot of difference. Proper grammar and spelling aside, using key words tend to entice more readers to glue on your post and eventually “like” and share it as well. Also, be concise and direct to the point. Although research shows that longer posts can attract higher interaction, “a short and powerful punch can still drive a lot of engagement” as well. Short and sweet posts can drive a lot of interest too. Remember that the goal is to make your post stand out.