Balikbayan boxes has always been regarded as a symbol of an OFW's love for his/her family back home in the Philippines. The box doesn't only contain material things that the family, friends and relatives ask as favor or pasalubong after being away for quite some time but it is also filled with an OFW's hopes, dreams and aspirations to have a better life for his/her loved ones.
Ang bawat balikbayan box ay produkto ng pawis, luha, dugo at pagnanais ng bawat OFW na maibigay sa kani-kanilang pamilya ang isang masaganang pamumuhay.
Official logo of LBC
Since the box is very important, finding the right, affordable, reputable and trusted cargo service is not an easy task lately especially with all the bad feed backs and news that affects cargo shipments back home. Instead of uplifting news, OFWs are faced with varying issues that deal with custom problems, tampered boxes, lost items, taxes and the so called Balikbayan Box Law which proposes total dutiable value on boxes limiting the amount to Php 150,000 and that which can only be enjoyed three times a year. But despite all of this, OFWs are still firm in making sure that all the goods that they have slowly and meticulously saved during their stint working overseas will be received and enjoyed by their loved ones back home.
Trusted couriers are a hard find especially in the Middle East so when a Philippine-owned brand emerged in Kuwait to compete with the local ones, it's not surprising to find fellow Kababayans booking their services. LBC EXPRESS INC., has been in the courier industry since 1945 and has expanded their services to 1,020 branches in the Philippines alone and 60 international branches. Here in Kuwait, they have released two balikbayan boxes that would surely be a hit to our fellow OFWs. The LBC Balikbayan Trunk and the LBC Balikbayan Drum! These two new containers are made of stainless steel trunk and heavy duty plastic that would definitely ensure that the items inside will not be spoiled by any means and will be delivered safely back home in the Philippines!
Also, both containers can be sent through Air Cargo and Sea Freight. There is a money-back guarantee feature for containers sent via Air Cargo for lost shipments only with the prerequisites of declaring all the items in the packing list and photos of the container before it was sealed to ensure that there are no prohibited items inside.
Personally, we have used LBC's services for years and I grew up knowing them as the Hari ng Padala, just like what their commercial jingle always says back in the day. Even as of today when they have re branded their company with the motto - We like to move it, LBC Express is still the number one and trusted choice for express cargo - both for airfreight and sea freight. With the two new containers available, made of steel trunk and heavy duty plastic drums, LBC Express Kuwait has made sure that all the items in the Balikbayan containers will be safely delivered to the families of OFWs in the Philippines. Because of their reputation in delivering fast and efficient products and services through the country, it is no doubt that LBC Express has gained the respect of its clients for over 70 years all over the world.
For more information about LBC EXPRESS KUWAIT and their products, you can check their official Facebook page HERE. You can also visit their office located at Shop 28 Basement 1,2,3 Block 13 Fahad Al Salem Street in Al Salhiya, Kuwait City or you can call +965 22200428 or +965 99616522. Ngayon ito ang tanong ko sayo kabayan... Ano'ng pinaka-safe na cargo company para sayo?
Do you have any savings? Are you even aware how much interest it gives you? Is your savings more than 3-6 months worth of your salary? Will it be enough to cover your needs if tomorrow you will be laid off from your work or your family will need money because of unexpected emergencies?
Do you have a house of your own or do you just rent because you think its practical? Do you even have a car or simply commute because you can't afford to get one?
Have you been paying all your bills, grocery and shopping wants through cash or you charge them as debit from your cards? Do you have some fund set aside to pay for your dream vacation? When you or one of your family members get sick, do you take a loan or ask other people to lend you money because you don't have any left on your wallet?
Are you debt-free or are you like the others who are buried in debt you don't know what to do with it anymore? Do you have any idea how to free yourself from these debts?
If you have kids, can you even send them to good schools and give them the best education possible? Can you even afford your children's needs without touching your active income and savings?
What if you meet your maker tomorrow (knock on wood) and you are your family's breadwinner -- who would be left to support them? Are you even ready at the thought that even without you, your family you would be leaving behind will be ok -- financially speaking?
Do you even know or have the slightest idea how much is your total net worth, assets and liabilities? Are your finances enough to take care -- if not all, some of those needs? These are only few of the basic real-life questions that we all should be able to answer HONESTLY and be actually AWARE to know more about.
Unfortunately Filipino culture makes us shy and awkward to talk about money and anything about finances. It's a very reluctant topic among family members and a somewhat taboo conversation even with friends especially with those you're only acquainted with or of course with strangers since asking someone about their net worth or assets is clearly a sign of prying and disrespecting one's pivacy. Unless the Government would inquire about one's SALN (Statements of Assets and Liabilities), we don't have a choice but to open and share that private information. But is that even healthy not to know? Or are we just in denial not to really know about it?
Opening oneself to public about your financial status would make you fall between being modest or arrogant. But the only important thing about is not actually knowing what you have but knowing what you need. By being honest about your financial needs, you may be able to think ahead, plan ahead and act ahead to prepare for the worse case scenarios that could happen.
Kailangan pa bang antayin na may mangyari na hindi maganda para malaman ang mga kulang at dapat gawin kung pwede naman paghandaan ngayon pa lamang?
So how can we know in order to prepare ourselves to secure our family's financial needs?
The answer is very simple.
EDUCATION.
If you want to know more, click these links to find out how: TRULY RICH CLUB and
The Global Filipino Bloggers book where PinayDiaspora has been featured!
Blogging is an easy and fun way to communicate and connect virtually to a lot of people all over he world but it also gives a chance for everyone - people of all ages - to try something new and enhance their writing, photography and/or video-related skills that could make or break into a hobby or even as an added means to earn a good income.
The definition above that I have given in one of the Basic Blogging seminars that I did recently with OFSI (Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors) to introduce the world of Blogosphere to everyone especially to OFSI members who are also hardworking OFWs here in Kuwait completely explains my love for this past time hobby that I have been doing for the past 5 years. Like what I have stated before and from the posts that I do on this site, it's very clear that my posts show my personal experiences while living here in Kuwait as an expat.
Today before taking my breakfast, I was surprised to receive a message coming from a friend, Gracia, who was a PEBA-awardee and known OFW blogging advocate worldwide. I have featured her before in one of my previous posts in gratitude for including me in her then-upcoming book that we have been talking about as an ultimate goal for aspiring writer and blogger like us. And guess what? The dream book that we were talking about a few years ago and which I partly helped in doing minor edits is now on sale at Amazon! :) I suddenly feel exhilarated from the news that I've received and I immediately googled Amazon to check it out. The cover design looked simple yet stylish and the few basic contents that I read was really familiar. Reading a few paragraph especially the introductory part made me reminisce the conversations that we both have and the ideals that we all share as part of the Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK) group which she had founded as well. Looking back, this published book is now a great a realization of an OFW's dream to continue pursuing one's goals, passion, advocacy and that God-given set of skills to be a good inspiration to fellow OFWs .
The Global Filipino Bloggers Slambook: OFW Edition has been published successfully last 2nd of February 2015 by Tatay Jobo Elizes Publishing House/CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (USA) and is being sold for $12 ( 3.6 KD or Php 533) only (both Paperback and Ebook editions). The book contains basic information about Blogging and featuring 33 Filipino bloggers worldwide from 2011-2012 with the likes of Fitz Villafuerte, a known OFW Financial advocate based in KSA and of course where yours truly, PinayDiaspora is included! :)
I am just so happy to be part of it and can't wait to get a copy of it! So please let us support the author Ms Gracia Amor, a Filipino OFW Blogging advocate here in Kuwait by buying her book.
I remember growing up, whenever we'd get sick my Mom would bring us to private hospitals and wouldn't initially bother if we have any cash on hand as admission payment because we always have an HMO card to present. Because of this card, we would get the best treatments possible and be admitted in a comfortable room where we can start to recuperate. Unfortunately, there's this common rule in the Philippines especially for private health care facilities that if you don't have the means, you definitely won't get admitted and given the right kind of treatment that you deserve. Besides, private hospitals function as business entities. Well they do have charities, but let's face it those are very very limited. I also encountered this article from Rappler about how much someone should need in order to pay for one's bill. (LINK)
PhilHealth membership has now been made compulsory for all Filipino Citizens that gives discount for Senior citizens and can slash a couple of pesos from the patient's original bill but would still highly depend if the PhilHealth member has paid his/her contributions
And of course there are the public hospitals and health care centers all around the country. The big ones definitely have the means and capacity as well comparable to known private hospitals and yes, mostly would accept everyone with or without the initial admission fee. Why I say mostly? Because in reality, some public hospitals are now operated under private corporations and because of that you'd need to pay something just to get admitted and treated. So that doesn't seem to have any problem right? Wrong. Why? Because the treatment won't be the same as compared to private hospitals. The facilities were unfortunately either outdated, rusty or that the treatment the patient deserves won't be that good. Just imagine being sick and admitted into a public ward that you share with 10+ sick people like you. That's not comfortable at all. Add the fact that for medicines, you have to pay them separately and the bill would just soar high and people would just be caught in disbelief when they would finally try to settle their bill. They'd think.. Public Hospital ito bakit ganito kalaki ang bill? (This is a Public hospital, why is the bill this expensive?) Truth is -- our government can't shoulder all the bills. They can just help through PhilHealth but unfortunately that's not enough. Seriously.
Receipt and waiting number that I paid for (1KD or 146 pesos) while waiting in line at a public clinic in Kuwait when I got sick the other day
When I went to Kuwait a couple years ago (2011), I was actually fascinated and surprised by this small country's public health care system. Having a health care insurance is compulsory and it is being paid upon getting a valid residence visa here (working or dependent/family). No one is exempted. And from that, every time anyone or any expat resident for that matter to get treated in any public clinic or hospital (from check up to surgeries) you only need to show your valid civil ID or health card insurance (for expats) and pay a minimum amount of 1 KD (roughly 146 pesos as per the current conversion as of this writing) and you'll get the best possible treatment that you deserve. Well there are some issues with Doctors not really checking the problems of their patients carefully where they would just give out packs of Panadol (Paracetamol) for immediate treatment to any disease which coined the term "Ministry of Panadol" but in fairness to those that do are great Doctors, getting admitted to a hospital with first class facilities and given the necessary amount of medicines as part of the treatment for a measly amount of 146 pesos, don't you think that's just good enough? Definitely, especially if you'd compare this country's health care system to the Philippines. Sad reality but true.
Insurance card in Kuwait where it is renewed compulsory together with the Visa
So for ordinary Filipinos like us, how can we be sure that we have enough money to pay for our health care needs if that unfortunate day would come?
The answer is simple: GET PROTECTION!
This would mean tap into the knowledge of having Medical Insurance, Health Insurance, HMOs and other means possible to build that fund specifically catered to meet that unfortunate need that we would all face at one point in our lives.
How can we know about this?
The internet is an open source for all your questions. Just be sure that you are reading the right articles, going to the right websites and listening to the right credible people in order to safeguard your hard earned income for the purpose of getting this protection.
Or, you can simply go to OFSI website to find out how we can help you. :)
In order to reach a huge number of audience, organizers of different advocate groups have tapped the power of technology. Financial literacy groups such as TGFI (The Global Filipino Investor) have started using live webinars as a means to connect with its target audience online not only within the Philippines but around the world all at the same time. Luckily, I got one of the free invites to be part of TGFI Web Academy's recent live webinar last 25th of April, Saturday about "How to Invest in the Stocks Market?" by Mr Aya Laraya of Pesos and Sense and COL Financial. Unfortunately, there's been a couple of glitches during the session due to the tremendous amount of attendees that it tried to accommodate. From the target of 1000+ attendees, the new application that they used limited the attendees to only a 100. This of course created a buzz of disappointed people who have been waiting for hours just to be in sync with Manila's time (majority of attendees are OFWs or based abroad). But since it's a free session, I'm still grateful to have been part of it.
Below is the summary of what went through the one-hour long free webinar session.
Introductions by Mr Floi Wycoco, founder of TGFI
Mr Aya Laraya during the free TGFI webinar
The speaker emphasized on this one which is a HUGE PROBLEM for all types of investors especially the newbies like me.
Mr Aya Laraya, the speaker, differentiated the two methods of Stocks Investing.
The speaker pointed out the strong points of Trading in the stocks market.
But nevertheless insisted that for long-term investors this is the best method of investing in the stocks market especially for those who have a job or other priorities to take care of.
But he of course pointed out that whatever investing strategy that the person would choose, the investor should put a huge emphasis on checking the company's profile and value.
COL Financial is of course one of the Philippine's best and known online stock broker.
Looking back at this experience, it made me realize about the type of investor that I was, if I'm doing the strategy that really fits me and the current application that we are using in OFSI (Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors) for our current batch's online attendees. A couple of questions has also been raised in my mind about its technical efficiency but as compared to TGFI's huge online attendees, we have only limited OFSI's to less than 20. But looking on a larger scale, if in the future we would have that kind of exposure, we should definitely be equipped and ready! This of course made me quite excited especially since a lot of Filipinos are now starting to realize the importance of having a solid financial education and even trying their best to maximize the free learning resources that is given online by these financial advocacy groups.
Great job to TGFI's organizers! :)
Note: To listen to the whole session check the video below.
Writing is a passion that I always have. It's the Romeo to my Juliet's love for reading. It's a combination that I always enjoyed since I was young. And speaking is something quite similar as well. It's not just a passion but also something that I know I can naturally do. I'm not bragging or anything, but I am absolutely sure that if I have something to say, I'd say it. More so -- speaking in front a crowd. Funny thing that I don't get the usual jitters whenever I'd try to talk in front of an audience, although sometimes I'd feel a little sweaty but at the time that I would stand up and start to open my mouth, the platform or stage or wherever I'm standing feels like home. Weird, but I do have that kind of feeling. It's like -- you want to share a piece of yourself to your listeners and you're really trying your best to let them know what you want them to know. But unfortunately, that doesn't happen all the time. Some would say I sounded harsh, that I would comment straight to the point to even sound rude or get the tables upside down by making everyone laugh with my crazy humor. Whatever that is, at least I'm still able to get my points across right? XD
Anyway, as part of our group's special sessions, I was tasked to give another talk about Blogging 101 last 17th of April 2015. This time, with only the basics of the basics that I know. This of course made me excited since I would be able to share everyone what I know about blogging. Not that I was an expert since I'm probably still a newbie when ranked on the Blogosphere, but the fact that some people think I have the authority in this matter -- it simply made my heart jump for joy! Too much adjectives? Nah, just feeling happy with what I have accomplished! :)
OFSI Blogging 101 Session last April 17, 2015
Another group picture of future OFSI Bloggers
Oh yeah, they're listening to whatever that I was saying :P
Finally after 4 long years, PinayDiaspora is now a dot com minus the blogspot name! Not that I'm not happy with blogger, which is still obviously my free web host, but the need to be independent (at least the URL part) seemed more appealing than before.
Thankfully though with the help of my fellow OFSI friend Ms. Georgia Lawas (www.lgeorgia.com), I am now the official owner of this URL link at USD33 (10KD) for 3 years. Thanks to GoDaddy and its cheap domain name registry. =) Hopefully though with this added feature, I would feel compelled to write more and update this baby more often. *crossesfingers*
Official email from GoDaddy(dot)com
So cheers to this wonderful awesometastic year for PinayDiaspora blog! =)
Education is a key source to uplift one's full potential through learning various trends and knowing the fundamental concepts of an idea by heart. This is not only done through the structured learning process that we undergo from our childhood years but educating oneself is a process that can be done through various means. In order to be effective in a given role or achieve a certain goal, learning has always been a major factor that can help us accomplish our set ideals in life. This is also a MUST in our journey towards creating, planning and achieving our path to financial freedom and abundance.
By learning, we expose ourselves to various activities -- reading books, attending seminars/workshop/talks, listening and watching financial/business-related programs and through different online means. Blogs and other social media platforms like Facebook has paved way for easy and free access to learn more about investment instruments as an example. Different groups has also been established to cater needs of people wanting to find out more options and effective financial instruments. In this era of wanton need to be financially free, people are seeking various ways and means in order to fully sustain that desire for knowledge. Admittedly belonging in that category, I suddenly had that urge to know more ways to prepare for my future and have the life that I have always wanted.
But where would I begin? That's the first question that popped in my head. Thankfully, the internet has provided free access to almost everything that I needed. But the overloaded information in front of me only confused me more. And then, it's as if God heard the desires of my heart. He sent an angel (Renz Leano) that now became my financial mentor. The series of talks that we had about our like-minded set goals and objectives ultimately transpired into a group of other fellow OFWs like us who wished to live a better future for them and their families. Thus the creation of Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) Group in Kuwait.
Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) officer's oath-taking ceremony at the Philippine Embassy in Faiha, Kuwait with Charge d' Affaires Atty. Raul H. Dado last January 24, 2015
Fast forward almost a year has passed since then, my mentor's dream of sharing his advocacy to help our country's economy and stir financial awareness to fellow OFWs and their families has now become a reality. My goal of only knowing where and what to start has now expanded in supporting family, friends and even strangers in planning their own. We have just started and doesn't have much to prove yet but if things are done with humility and honest intentions, positivism will only outshine the negative. This will be a tedious and very, very long journey but I know by the grace of God everything will be on the right track.
For more than a year now, I have carefully tracked my direct stocks investments using my online stock broker, COL Financial. So far I am proud to say that I have attained past my initial target of 10% gain/loss in my portfolio (dividends not yet included). I've made bad choices along the way due to sudden burst of emotions as a newbie and crazy excitement which led me to jump along the bandwagon to test shallow waters. But hopefully, with those experiences which I now regard as my learning point in my young journey to financial freedom and abundance, it simply taught me two very important things -- stick with the fundamental values of the company and do cost averaging with a twist.
My portfolio as of January 9, 2015. Note the box in red. NOTE: The Gain/Loss % will vary depending if you have sold your shares, locked in profits and/or added shares to your existing stocks. I will further explain it on my next posts. =)
Stocks investing isn't new, even in the Philippine setting either. The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSEI) had been continuously operating since its inception in the late 1920s. Unfortunately, this method of paper-based investment has not been widely spread among the common middle to lower class population due to its "for-the-rich-only-image". Back in the days, finding a stock broker and seeking platforms for stocks investing is not as easily accessible as it is now and investment products which have low minimum investment deposits are also not commonly offered by financial companies and/or banks unless you'd inquire thoroughly about it. If you are in the stock market know-how and obviously have the means back in the day, you're lucky to know this pot of gold. But as the world changes, people are now in the loop of getting more financially aware and seeking to be literate enough to care more about their financial situation and future retirement options. Thankfully, the technology that we have through the use of internet which paved the way for the creation of easy and accessible online stock brokerage platforms gives everybody a fair chance at this form of investing.
Due to this sudden demand, traditional financial companies opted to upgrade their system and adopt this new technological change. As of this writing there are more than 5 companies that offer accesible online stock investing platforms accredited by SEC. Each have their own different features to boost that entices potential investors. Out of these handful of companies, I carefully chose my online stock broker due to its proven 20 years record in the industry.
On a personal note, I use COL Financial because of their features. Recommendation from friends and numerous positive reviews that I have read on the internet also added to that decision. But among these, I primarily chose the company because they allow OFWs like me who are living abroad to process my application without any hassle of having to go back home for issues of personal appearance. I also find their site easy to navigate, their updated articles about the stock market easy to understand for a non-business major like me and a lot of friendly-to-use options. I'm not in any way connected with this company nor advertising them but simply putting my two cents on my decision when I applied to start my direct stocks investment. Like what I have stated, there are other companies to choose from and it would always depend on the potential investor's personal preference.
For information on which online accredited stocks broker to choose, I have made a list below with with their minimum amount for deposit. Click the name of the company and you will be directly linked to their site.
LIST OF 2014 ACCREDITED ONLINE STOCK BROKERS IN THE PHILIPPINES
(Some changes may appear as I will try to update this list once in a while)
Regarding account opening, requirements and other necessary information, it is highly recommended to CONTACT each company and inquire for further details.
I love to travel. I love to go shopping. I love to dine and taste different kinds of food. I want to experience what life has to offer. But with my measly income, how can I experience all of this? I'm not even a fan of credit cards and I obviously don't want to be buried in debts just to cater to these wants.
Besides, I'm not getting any younger. I'm already in my late 20s. Five years from now I have plans of settling down (in God's will). I also want to own a house, send my children to good schools and live a comfortable life without thinking much about financial problems. I don't want to work 24/7 a day and live in complete poverty. I want to enjoy my life..financially free to be exact.
But the big question is.. HOW?
When I was in school, everyone would tell me that I need to study hard. Why? So I can finish school and get a good job afterwards. No one encouraged me to try and pursue having my own business. The old mentality of Filipino families is that when you have good education, you are guaranteed to get a good job, you can work abroad and earn good dollars. Funny thing is, not everyone who works abroad earn good dollars. Not everyone has the same rags-to-riches story after working abroad.
So how can I be financially free? From reading tons of articles, I found these easy steps that I'm currently following...and hopefully will continue to do so. *crossesfingers*
STEP 1 is important. KNOW ONESELF. Knowing one's goals in life is important. On my part I would have this little notebook to write down all the things that I want to accomplish and that includes being financially free in the near future. Somehow seeing my goal written down motivates me and obviously this gives a positive sense of inspiration to achieve that objective. My target goal: earn Php XX millions after 5 years. Too big? I don't care.
STEP 2 is obvious. CLEARING ALL DEBTS. Thankfully though I don't have any credit cards, loans or personal debt from anyone. I'm not saying that Credit cards are bad, since they're handy especially if you need instant cash, but based from my Mom's experience -- the interest rate will eat you up. (As of this writing the rate is around ~3% a month of your total accumulated expenses) For example you have Php 30,000 debt on you credit card and you have to pay Php~900 (interest rate) + other charges monthly. Imagine what you can buy with Php 900.
STEP 3 is simple. LEARN HOW TO BUDGET. This is clearly organizing your thoughts on what you want. Check the video for more info credited to Pesos and Sense. :)
STEP 4 needs discipline and connected with the previous step. ALLOCATE A FIXED AMOUNT FROM MONTHLY SALARY FOR SAVINGS. This will not only teach you discipline to save from your monthly income, but it will also teach you the strategy called Compounding Interest. This simple matter of saving up can give you many options for your future needs where you can build your own funds. One important fund that people must have is called an Emergency Fund(3x worth your salary if you're single, 6x if you're married) which is supposedly good as cash that you can rely on when something unlikely happens like losing your job, etc. Dream Fund is something that most people want but never really thought of saving much for. This of course includes money saved for leisure activities and even for shopping for expensive items that's on your I-want-to-have-list. Another important fund which many people doesn't consider much isRetirement Fund, which most Filipinos rely on their future SSS pension. I'm not saying you need to rely on it 101% but there's a good chance that due to inflation rates, your pension 20-30-40 years from now won't be considered that much. Overall, there's like different other funds to enumerate but it still depends on you on where you'd want your savings to be used in the near future. For a good visual example, check the video again.
STEP 5 is a must. GET INSURED. When people hear insurances, they'll think of pre-need companies (for education etc) that went wrong. But insurances, primarily life insurance is fixed, stable and has been in the country for a century. Specifically a life insurance, is a service that would ensure that whatever happens to yo, your beneficiaries would be taken care of. You can of course get a health insurance, which can help you get covered when you and your family members are sick. Thankfully though here in Kuwait I have a health insurance that is compulsory when the visa is renewed. But the question is - what if I'm in the Philippines and *knockonwood* I would need an HMO to cover my expenses and I don't have one? That's a good question right? For more info, check this LINK.
STEP 6 needs focus. KNOW WHERE TO INVEST. Thankfully there are a lot of financial instruments available for people to invest. There's the stocks, mutual funds, UITFs, treasury bills, bonds, etc. Since I'm a fan of Pesos and Sense videos, check this out.
These steps can be personalized according to your needs, but bottom line is.. when it comes to financial freedom it's all about having focus, discipline and knowing what you really want. :)
Official event poster. Image credit to SaintGregorieProductions
Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name - Psalm 18:49
The past 2 weeks has been a crazy roller coaster ride. Who would've thought that I would be part of two amazing music events to be held on the same week? I'm not an amateur nor a pro at handling events but I've personally handled a wedding, debut, seminars/workshops/conferences, drama play, school contest and fair and even a Bingo event in our local community back then. But this is somewhat different since both affairs were done for a cause. The rock concert aims to contribute in building a catholic church in Bahrain while the singing contest is to promote Filipino talents in the Middle East as well as support the scholarship projects of ANCOP in the Philippines.
The Bigkis Bandang Pinoy Concert for a Causewhich was held last Thursday, September 5 at Don Bosco School in Salmiya was organized by the Pearl of the Orient (PYMSK and TFC) led by Fr. Ben Barrameda in cooperation with Pinoy Q8 Talents. Different Filipino organizations also helped sponsor the event (FAST, Pindot, PinoyHubs etc) and the night was a success with 7 Pinoy local bands (Middle String, 8th Note, Beats &Pieces, Blue Chords, Lillium, Impulse and Abandoned) who graced the stage with awesome live music showcasing Filipino musical talents.
Image credit to Among Ben
Moreover, theANCOP Global Pinoy Singing Idol Kuwait Finals was held at the Ballroom Hall of Carlton Hotel in Kuwait City last September 6, Friday. The contest is a project of ANCOP in cooperation with ABS-CBN DZMM and was sponsored locally by ICSA and some generous individuals. This singing contest does not only aim at showcasing Filipino prowess in singing but as well as in promoting ANCOP Global Walk 2013 in support for ANCOP's scholarship projects in the Philippines.
Official video teaser for ANCOP Global Pinoy Singing Idol Kuwait Finals 2013
Official ANCOP GPSI Kuwait Finals poster
Eight (8) amazing talents graced the stage rendering their own version of Louis Armstrongs "Wonderful World" and singing their heart out with their chosen Finale pieces.
Image credit to ANCOP's Jon Parian
At the end, the Jazzy Popster contender from Hawally, Ms Lyza Pajo won the event bagging the all expense paid round-trip airfare to the ANCOP Global Pinoy Singing Idol Middle East Finals on September 27. From there, two (2) winners will represent the Middle East in the ANCOP Global Pinoy Singing Idol Championships to be held in Manila on December 2013/January 2014. The champion will take home $1000 USD cash prize, the title of ANCOP GPSI Champion for 2014 and possibly a recording contract* from ABS-CBN.
As of this writing, ANCOP GPSI Kuwait winner is already preparing for the Middle East finals so I'm crossing my fingers now that she'll hopefully win the said competition. Go Lyza! Go Kuwait! :)
Blogging is an expression of free will. It is a form of communication done through the use of online tools that vary depending on the blogger - the person behind the blog site. Blogs certainly differ from person to person and the blogger's interests. Some would either write short stories, opinions on things or tell tales of their real life experiences. Writings would also vary depending on the blogger's intent on his/her post, the structure structure or writing style used and language. While others capture quality moments through their lens which they share by posting photos or videos, blogging has been used mostly to express oneself. Interestingly, some has also used this online tool in earning a good income through one's passion while people like me simply just do this as a means to practice what I am fond of doing - writing.
Personally, I also know some people who use their blogs as a form of advocacy about real life experiences which inspire and motivates others to support their goals. These people come from different backgrounds and most of their stories share the same sentiment - being an OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) who was forced to work out of the country for a greener pasture. The President of FBK (Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait) Ms Gracia Amor uses her blog DiaryNiGracia to create awareness about the current issues and lives of Filipino OFW here in Kuwait. Another member, Tito Al Manlangit's Soujournal blog is catered to show his love for landscape photography which reflects his artistic side and Architectural background. Some also uses their blog to chronicle their life's activities as a tool to communicate with their friends and relatives across the globe like Tita Freda Contrera's A Blessed Life.
Official Teaser Video for FBK's 1st Anniversary. Credit to PamatayHomesick.
Through their blogs, these Filipino Expats came together to create a small bonded group that advocates blogging as a form of communication not only as a past time (like in my case), but as well as use this medium to share and disseminate valuable information to other Filipino Expats who are in need. This blogging group established only last year called the Filipno Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK) has found itself an important role and responsibility in supporting important advocacies and creating awareness for other Filipinos here in Kuwait through these online tools to aid less fortunate fellow men in their needs. For the past year, the group has done charity work with the Philippine Embassy and other Filipino groups in helping maltreated fellow OFWs who were taking shelter in the Embassy. A few weeks from one, FBK will be hosting a Blood Donation project at the Kuwait Central Bank on the 20th of September 2013 and a free seminar about Blogging at the Philippine Embassy on a first-come-first-served basis.
Blood Donation Project. Credit for image go to FBK
Passion is a God-given gift and it is something that people should know how to use not only to entertain oneself but as well as use it responsibly to help others. Helping doesn't need to amount to a great extent in order to brag about something, but it can be done even in a small form through sharing valuable information that can give a sense of positive enlightenment.
"And I will betroth you to me forever. I will betroth you to me in righteousness and in justice, in steadfast love and in mercy." -- Hosea 2:19
The Theresian Filipino Catholic community in Salmiya recently held a free service called "Kasalang Bayan" from April 5 to June 21 respectively for Filipino couples who wished to be wed in church rights. This event was spearheaded by Fr. Ben Barrameda and the newly formed Pinoy Youth Ministry in Salmiya Kuwait (PYMSK).
The last scheduled Kasalang Bayan for this year will be held on October 21.
News of thousands of people being deported out of Kuwait has raised fear among the expats. Different concerns has been raised and one report from a local newspaper even told tales of Indians asking their Embassy for help due to manhandling by the authorities. But who knows what is really happening? Some stories may well be exaggerated but then the fact that a number of people is being deported daily due to illegal issues is not a good thing. And since this is a sensitive issue that tackles violations, punishments and worst -- being thrown in prison cells for not following Kuwait laws, expats should be more cautious and disciplined. Besides, this is not our country and we are simply aliens living in a foreign land.
I saw this on an FB group page telling people to be more alert during checkings done by the police. I f you read it more closely, all the details were already existing rules here. No idea why some people are exaggerating this now..but anyway it's better be informed than being ignorant of what's happening around
Although this massive clean up of illegal residents is a bit of a shock due to their increasing numbers, abiding and respecting a country's law is compulsory in order to continue living freely and without any kind of hassle.
Last Thursday night I have been invited to attend a blessing ceremony for the new Filipino paper Kabayan Global Magazine's mother company, Alkaline Media Advertising. It was a fun-filled event where representatives from the Philippine Embassy and Filipino organizations here are present. Interestingly, it was actually my first time to attend such an event here in Kuwait so it was an experience that would probably stick for a while.
Invitation I got from Ms. Gracia Amor
Alkaline Media owner with the Philippine Embassy representatives during the signing of the Alkaline Media blessing memorabilia board
Alkaline media owner with the Philippine Embassy representatives during the ribbon cutting ceremony
Office building at Room 103
During the reception where Pastor Gil Bantugan led the grace before meals. A small active discussion was presented by Filinvest Representatives highlighting Filipino pride
Road accidents are very common in this country. I remember the first time I passed 4th ring road to head out for a family dinner towards Arabian Gulf Street, we witnessed an aftermath of a car accident. It took us more than 20 minutes stuck on traffic that it caused but instead of being annoyed I felt sorry for the wrecked car (it was a small car hitting an SUV) and the people who were brought to the hospital by the ambulance team. But as I get myself immersed on the road etiquettes of drivers around this place, I was in shock. Seriously, who on their right mind would drive around with babies or toddlers on the driver's seat? Who would be sane enough by allowing their kids to play around the car windows while driving fast on the highway? Or who would be driving without knowing how to use car signals (tail lights for example) when overtaking or turning a different road? I'm definitely not an expert driver myself but I sure know the basics. But here..it's a totally different story. I have heard a couple of people (including my Dad) telling me that when you want to drive here, you need to always be on alert mode or else it's either you'll get hit or you'll be the one going to hit something.
Click to enlarge.
Anyway, since I thought this information is imperative when driving in Kuwait I do hope people would really find this traffic violations serious in order to minimize road accidents. It's obvious some people don't care much about the fines since this place is rich, but for the sake of those who wanted to live longer and avoid any accidents..I seriously hope and pray that drivers (everyone who has a car and license to drive here) will take this really, really, really, really seriously.
Bakit nga ba kelangan bumoto? Napakasimpleng tanong na mayroon din napakaraming sagot. Ngunit kung ito'y ating uunawain, isang bagay lamang talaga ang dapat isa isip. Ito ay isang karapatan.
Registered Absentee Voter
Exercising my right to suffrage is something I have actively done since I turned 18. But since moving to Kuwait, this was the first time that I opted to become an Absentee voter to continue my participation in this national elections. The registration and transfer of my records from my previous local precinct took a couple of months (registered only late last year when I renewed my passport) but luckily it was approved without any hassle. So yesterday, I finally had my chance to be a part of this Overseas Absentee Voters program for Filipino Citizens living abroad. As per COMELEC rules, OAVs are given a month before the official election begins in the Philippines which will be on the 13th of May 2013.
Philippine Embassy in Faiha, Kuwait
Reminder posted at the entrance of the Philippine Embassy in Faiha
What's happening inside the Voting place
Trying out the PCOS machine. It looked old but still working.
The election was held at the Philippine Embassy in Faiha and in order to ensure that you're a registered voter or a Filipino citizen, you'll either need to show your OAV voters license or your original passport. The procedure is done through properly shading electronic papers and be fed under PCOS machines. Once the machine accepts the paper, the votes will be counted and should be wired through their main system. Not sure where the main system was located but hopefully it's in safe hands. Hopefully. *crossesfingers*
Just like what Dr. Jose Rizal said, "It is a useless life that is
not consecrated to a great ideal. It is like a stone wasted in the
field without becoming part of an edifice. The glory of saving a country is not for him who has contributed to its ruin. (El Filibusterismo)" This simply states that in order for us to achieve something greater, we must all do our part in our own little way. As this Senatorial election continues on, may we as proud Filipino citizens try our best to perform our right to choose wisely who we think should fill in the vacant seats in our democratic government. If we won't act, who else will?
