The iPhone Duo Is Here and My Wallet Folded Before the Phone Did

After years of rumors, Apple finally unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone, at a special event on September 9. The device unfolds from a 5.4-inch outer display into a 7.6-inch inner screen, making it part smartphone and part compact tablet. It features a redesigned hinge that Apple believes would make the display crease less noticeable. 

apple.com/ph

I got interested in it because of the size of its unfolded screen. At 7.6 inches, it is only slightly smaller than the 8.3-inch iPad mini, but larger than a typical Kindle, which I often use for reading. In other words, the iPhone Duo is not only a folding phone but also a small tablet I could fit in my pocket. 

It is another thingamajig from Apple that I would want to lay my hands on.  But then, I learned about the price. I started doing calculations in my head.

At the Apple Store Philippines, the iPhone Duo starts at P159,990 for the 256 GB model and goes up to P175,990 for the 512GB variant. Don’t ask me about the 1 and 2 TB iterations because I am not the target market for those.  I can only imagine the retail price with local taxes and retailer markups included.

I started calculating and thinking about all the other things I could buy with that amount of money. Several pairs of running shoes, weeks or even months of groceries, a new MacBook, or even a domestic vacation (especially after the government announced a three-day holiday in November). I could even buy an iPhone and an iPad separately, or a Kindle Colorsoft, if I wanted to. Someone told me that I could buy a new motorcycle with that money.  It’s funny that  I'm not comparing the iPhone Duo with other smartphones, but instead comparing it with other items I could buy for its price.  Realizing what I can get at this price point, I consider it a luxury item.

I know new technology is expensive: it has to go through research and testing, may require the creation of new parts, and more before it even goes into production. Add to that the ongoing AI-driven crisis, which is making parts such as memory so expensive.  So maybe this first version of a foldable iPhone was never meant to be a mass-market device, but more aimed at early adopters and tech enthusiasts who want the latest and most advanced gadget available and have the resources to boot.

apple.com/ph

I am also interested in how it compares with existing foldable phones. Brands like Samsung have spent years refining their similar products, with premium foldables in the Philippines typically selling for around P90,000 to P120,000 depending on the model and configuration. By comparison, the iPhone Duo appears to be positioning itself at the top of the foldable market, both in terms of branding and price. 

You are probably asking if I would love to try one.  Of course. I would be lying if I said no.

But would I buy one once it's available? My wallet would protest.  Maybe a few years from now, when foldable phones become as common as today's smartphones and affordable. For now, I will admire it from a safe distance and keep my cash and credit card securely in my wallet. 

apple.com/ph

Images downloaded from apple.com/ph. No copyright infringement intended.

A Hazy Start to September: Transboundary Haze Reaches the Philippines

 Many of us in Metro Manila woke up on the first day of September to a thick haze hanging over the city, blurring the skyline and obscuring buildings that we normally see even from afar. At first glance, it looked like the typical pollution that plagues the city or, since we had experienced continuous rains before it happened, lingering rain clouds. But we later learned that it was haze that actually traveled hundreds of kilometers, originating from burning forest and peatland fires in Indonesia and carried to the Philippines by the southwest monsoon, or what we call the habagat.

We in Metro Manila were not alone. Social media was full of posts saying the haze also affected parts of Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and the Visayas.   Authorities warned us to limit outdoor activities and wear face masks when going outside because of the worsening air quality. I put on a face mask when I left the house for the office, and seeing other people in the streets wearing face masks reminded me of the pandemic six years ago. Some local governments across the country also suspended classes to protect the children from Metro Manila's acutely unhealthy air.

AI-generated image

Unsurprisingly, the Philippines was not the only one affected. Our fellow Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries Malaysia and Singapore also experienced haze and poor air quality from the Indonesian fires. They were even the ones that bore the brunt of the current transboundary haze because of their proximity to the fire-affected areas. Their air quality reached hazardous levels, disrupting daily life, schools, work schedules, and transportation. 

Transboundary haze from Indonesian fires is not new to the region. Southeast Asia experienced major haze crises in the last three decades. I even remember when an edition of the Southeast Asian Games in Singapore was plagued by haze, making some officials worry about their athletes' health. But for me, what made this episode remarkable was that the Philippines, which, as far as I can remember, had largely been unaffected by past events, found itself directly impacted.

I know the previous incidents led the ASEAN leaders to adopt the Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, where member states agree to work together to monitor fires, share information, and help prevent future haze episodes. I am now watching how ASEAN responds to this latest incident under the Philippines' chairmanship. It would be interesting, given that ASEAN's principle of non-intervention often leads to inaction.

What I find even more unsettling is that this was not a natural disaster. News reports linked the ongoing forest and peatland fires in Indonesia to land-clearing activities for corporate agriculture. Unlike typhoons or earthquakes, these incidents are often preventable. Some reports also indicated that parts of Indonesia are experiencing a long dry spell, contributing to fires spreading in areas not meant to burn. It is quite frustrating to know that actions taken hundreds of kilometers away could make us here in Metro Manila worry about the air we breathe to the point that we need to wear masks and limit our outdoor time. 

Thankfully, it started to rain again yesterday. The environment office hopes the continuous rain helps wash floating smoke particles out of the atmosphere and improve air quality in Metro Manila and other affected areas. Just this morning, the air quality index in the Metro was considered good, meaning air quality was safe for normal outdoor activities, even for those with respiratory sensitivities. However, people sensitive to air pollution still need to take precautions when going outside.  Unfortunately, air quality in the Southern parts of the country, like Mindanao, remains acutely unhealthy.

The haze reminded me how vulnerable we are to the effects of our neglect of the environment and nature. It also showed how the air we breathe connects us, and how we need to do our part to protect it.

Exploring San Fernando, Pampanga: Arts, Food and Faith (Last of 3 Parts)

 After lunch, we continued our trip with a visit to the Sunken Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Bacolor. The shrine stands as a powerful reminder of the devastation brought by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991. Massive lahar flows buried much of the original church, with only the roof visible from street level. Today, the shrine continues to serve as a place of worship, but it also stands as a monument to the community's survival and resilience.

One of the shrine's most remarkable features is its altar, carved from the very lahar that once buried the church and surrounding communities. The altar retains the rugged texture and gray tones of the hardened volcanic deposits, creating a stark yet beautiful contrast with the sacred statues and decorations around it.  I stood before the structure in awe of nature's power and in admiration of the resilience and creativity of the people who rose above their misfortune.

At the center of this altar stands the original image of Our Lady of Lourdes, preserved despite the destruction brought by the eruption. The image appears to triumph over the tragedy as it stands atop the lahar deposits. At the same time,  the altar served as a powerful reminder of how devastating nature can be when it unleashes its fury. Yet it also shows how communities can rebuild, recover, and find meaning even after immense loss.

We climbed a stairway behind the altar, which brought us closer to the Our Lady of Lourdes image. There, I touched the image's veil and quietly offered a short prayer. It was a simple yet meaningful moment that added a personal and spiritual dimension to our visit.

Earlier in August, the shrine was flooded after heavy rains from the southwest monsoon, locally known as "habagat."  The statue of our Lady had to be moved to the parish office for safety.

 Our driver later told us about another church in the area that had been buried by the lahar, with only its bell tower and dome still visible above ground. Curious to see it, we set out to find the site. Unfortunately, despite following directions from people we asked on the street, we couldn't find it.  My brother later found out there was indeed another sunken church, but it was in the opposite direction of the route we took.

 Since we couldn't locate the church, we decided to take a break at Our Cafe, considered the largest cafe in the country. I don't know how many customers it could accommodate, but one thing I am sure of is that you wouldn't have to look hard to find a seat there. 

Before heading home, we made one final stop at L.A. Bakeshop, famous for its cheese bread. I bought a box of 16 pieces while my sisters bought other pastries such as the ube ensaymada.  I've tried the cheese bread before when we visited Pampanga, but we bought it from a branch in another location. I really enjoyed it the first time, that's why I included buying it during this trip in my to-do list. 

We had a great day in Pampanga and experienced more than just sightseeing. Each stop exposed us to the arts, cuisine, and other aspects of Pampanga's heritage and character. It was a day filled with learning, good food, and memories.

Exploring San Fernando, Pampanga: Arts, Food and Faith (2nd of 3 Parts)

After our museum visit, we had lunch at Souq (pronounced "sook") Restaurant along Lazatin Avenue. Souq offers a creative fusion of Kapampangan cuisine, widely regarded as among the best in the Philippines, alongside other Filipino and Asian dishes. Since we wanted to sample a variety of flavors, we ordered several dishes to share.

One item I instantly liked was the restaurant's take on Okoy, a favorite Filipino treat traditionally made with shrimp and vegetables. Souq's version was both familiar and unique, a combination of grated papaya, kamote (sweet potato), and kalabasa (squash), topped with shrimp. The fritters did not have the usual patty-like appearance; they looked like a bird's nest and were crunchy and tasty. 

I ordered the crab rice, which I found very good. The rice was soft and must have included malagkit (glutinous rice), and the crab flavor was rich and creamy. Its savory taste made it satisfying, and it paired well with the other dishes we ordered.

My sisters also tried the kare-kare, which featured tender pork belly instead of the usual ox tail or tripe. My sisters, however, found the peanut sauce much sweeter than what we typically expect from a traditional kare-kare. The sweetness was quite pronounced, and I even suspected that the cook might have used peanut butter instead of actual peanuts to make the sauce. Of course, that was only my personal impression, and some diners may enjoy this variation. However, I prefer a more savory and nuttier kare-kare that lets the flavors of the meat, vegetables, and bagoong stand out.

I also had the opportunity to try the Asado Matua, a Kapampangan take on the Chinese dish asado. The dish featured pork shoulder slow-cooked in tomatoes, soy sauce, and calamansi, resulting in a deep, savory flavor balanced by a nice tanginess. The meat was tender and absorbed the rich flavors of the sauce. In a previous trip to Pampanga, I learned that "matua" is the Kapampangan word for traditional or old-style, which made the dish even more interesting. The Asado Matua is the pride of Kapampangan cooking, often served during celebrations and important occasions.  

We also ordered the Pasta sa Taba ng Alimango, or pasta in crab fat sauce. I did not get the chance to try it because I had already ordered the crab rice and didn't want to double down on crab dishes. My sister sampled it, and judging from how little she ate, I suspect she was not particularly impressed. 

Since I was not the one who paid for lunch, I do not actually know how much the meal cost. However, my sisters were very happy with the bill and felt that we received excellent value for the quality and quantity of food we enjoyed. They even said that we probably would have paid considerably more for a similar lunch in Manila. We appreciated the experience even more because of that observation. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal at Souq, and I'd gladly go back to try their other dishes. 

Original images taken during our trip. No intended copyright infringement.

Apple Pay Finally Arrives in the Philippines

 

Image from apple.com/ph

Apple Pay has finally arrived in the Philippines. After years of wondering when I would be able to use it, Apple Pay launched in the Philippines today, August 4, 2026. The service allows users to make secure payments in stores, apps, and online using their Apple devices.

As someone who already prefers cashless transactions, I’ve been looking forward to this feature on my iPhone and Apple Watch for a long time.

At its launch, Apple Pay had partnered with four banks: Chinabank, GoTyme Bank, Metrobank, and UnionBank, which became the first institutions to support the service, allowing eligible Visa and Mastercard cardholders to add their cards to Apple Wallet and begin using Apple Pay. I have the GoTyme Bank app on my phone, but hopefully, more banks will join in the months ahead as the service gains traction locally.

So far, according to the Apple website, merchants such as Abenson, Anko, Ayala Malls Cinemas, Ayala Malls, Beyond the Box, Coach, Digimap, Foot Locker, Globe, HOKA, Hollister, Jollibee, Lush, Power Mac Center, Rustan’s, SaladStop!, Shake Shack, Smart, The Loop, The Matcha Tokyo, The Movie Snackbar, The Underbelly, and WalterMart Supermarket, and apps and websites including foodpanda, Jollibee, Rustan’s, and Shopee, will accept Apple Pay on launch date. 

To use the service in a participating store, double-click your iPhone’s side button, authenticate with Face ID, and tap the payment terminal. When shopping online, selecting Apple Pay lets you check out without repeatedly entering card details and billing information.

Security is another major advantage. Apple Pay does not store actual card numbers on the device or share them with merchants. Instead, it uses a Device Account Number. Every transaction also requires authentication through Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode, ensuring that payment information is not compromised. What’s more, if your iPhone gets lost or stolen, you can use the Find My app to quickly locate, lock, or suspend payments from that device.

Like any new service, Apple Pay Philippines still has some limitations. Only four Philippine banks and a limited number of establishments currently support the service. Some merchants may not be familiar with Apple Pay just yet since the rollout is so new. I expect adoption to grow as more banks and businesses come on board.

Even with those early limitations, Apple Pay is, I think, an important step forward for digital payments in the Philippines. It’s a small convenience, but one that makes everyday transactions faster, easier, and more secure. I am already excited to use it for my next in-store or online purchase.

Exploring San Fernando, Pampanga: Arts, Food and Faith (1st of 3 Parts)

We went on a road trip to San Fernando, Pampanga last month, and it was both a memorable and enriching experience.   It took us almost two hours to reach the city, and our day trip gave us a glimpse of the many facets of Pampanga’s heritage, including paintings and religious artifacts, Kapampangan food, and historic churches.

Our morning started with a visit to the Museum of Philippine Arts and Culture, where we explored an impressive collection of works by some of the country's most celebrated artists, including Juvenal Sansó, Ang Kiukok, H.R. Ocampo, Malang, and Magsaysay-Ho.

The museum's collection, divided into two sections, included works by artists who received the Presidential Merit Award and those who were honored as National Artists of the Philippines. While each gallery showcased a different artistic perspective, together they painted a compelling portrait of Filipino life, history, and identity.

One fascinating detail we learned from our guide, Seb, was that artists such as Ang Kiukok and Juvenal Sansó often included a small dot or distinctive mark in their paintings to help identify the work as an original. Some visitors might overlook that detail, but it added another layer of appreciation for the artist's personality.

 

The art pieces are part of the personal collection of former Commissioner Andrea Domingo, and I noticed that many of the paintings celebrated Filipino women. Although expressed and painted in different styles,  they all seemed to capture the grace, strength, beauty, and femininity of the Filipina. The women portrayed in these works were not merely subjects; they were central figures in the story of Filipino life and culture.

 

Another recurring theme in the collection was Philippine rural life. Many of the paintings featured scenes such as farmers planting rice in lush fields, fishermen bringing in their catch, women weaving baskets by hand, and others gathering fruit from trees or carrying the day's harvest. Seb explained that many of the artists drew inspiration from the places where they lived, and it was easy to see how their communities, landscapes, and everyday experiences found their way onto canvas.

 After viewing the paintings, we went to another building in the complex that houses a collection of historical and religious artifacts. Among the most notable pieces were the many images and statues of the Virgin Mary and the Santo Niño. The images reflect the deep Catholic faith that has shaped Filipino’s belief and culture for centuries. 

The collection also included old pots, earthenware, and other ceremonial objects that offered a glimpse into how the earlier generations lived.

While I found the artifacts fascinating, I could not help feeling a little sad as I looked at some of them. Many of the religious images were clearly very old, and several appeared worn, faded, or in need of restoration. Their appearance may give them character and authenticity, but it also raises the need for their preservation.

Nevertheless, these artifacts, along with the artworks of Filipino masters, would someday help us better understand and remember the cultural, artistic, and spiritual foundations of our society.

Original images taken during our trip. No copyright infringement intended.

Childhood Obesity Is Rising. What Can We Do About It?

 When we think about malnutrition, we often imagine children who don't have enough to eat. But another nutrition problem is growing in the Philippines: more children are becoming overweight or obese.

Recent data show that overweight and obesity among Filipino school-age children and adolescents have increased significantly over the past decade. This matters because obesity in childhood can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems later in life.  And what’s more: eating habits formed in childhood often last a lifetime.  

Childhood Obesity Has Been Rising

 

Source: DOST-FNRI Expanded National Nutrition Survey 2023.

Image generated with AI

So what's driving the trend?

It is tempting to think that childhood obesity is simply a result of eating too much and exercising too little. In reality, things are much more complicated. 

The reality is, children today are surrounded by advertisements for sugary drinks, fast food, and highly processed snacks. These products are often affordable, convenient, and available almost everywhere. Meanwhile, healthier foods are not always the easiest or cheapest option for many families.

Experts call this the food environment: the world around us that shapes the food choices we make every day.

Small Changes at Home Matter

The good news is that parents don't need to be nutrition experts to help their children build healthier habits.

A few simple steps can go a long way:

🍌 Make healthy snacks easy to grab. Keep fruits, boiled eggs, corn, or nuts within easy reach.

🥪 School baon can also be an opportunity to build healthy habits. A balanced lunch does not have to be expensive or complicated. An egg with rice and fruit, a tuna sandwich and banana, or leftover chicken and vegetables from dinner can provide a nutritious meal for the school day.  

Image generated with AI

💧 Choose water more often. Replacing sugary drinks with water is one of the easiest ways to reduce excess sugar intake.

🚶 Make movement fun. A family walk, bike ride, dancing, or shooting hoops can be just as valuable as organized sports.

📵 Create screen-free mealtimes. Children are more likely to pay attention to what they eat—and enjoy family conversations—when gadgets are put away.

Most importantly, children learn from what they see. When parents model healthy habits, children are more likely to develop those habits themselves.

Parents play a vital role, but they cannot do it alone.

 The environments around children influence their choices every day. That's why many countries are introducing clearer food labels, restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children, and strengthening policies that encourage healthier eating.

Several proposals in Congress seek to do exactly that. These measures would help families identify healthier products, reduce children's exposure to unhealthy food marketing, and support better nutrition choices.

By combining stronger policies with everyday actions at home, we can give Filipino children a better chance to grow up healthy, active, and ready to thrive.

After all, healthy habits begin at home.  But healthy environments help those habits succeed.

Happy Easter! He is Risen!

 

My Experience, My Data: Using Autoethnography for Research

So, here’s something I didn’t see coming in grad school: apparently, my own experiences could count as research. I know, it sounds a little strange. I was trained to trust data, reports, and policy frameworks, not my day‑to‑day experience with how I do research. But then I learned about autoethnography, and it completely changed how I think about public policy and how it actually works in real life.

I first heard about autoethnography from my thesis adviser during my master’s program, when we were still trying to figure out how to deal with my research topic for my thesis.  Autoethnography, introduced and promoted by scholars like Carolyn Ellis, Arthur Bochner, and Tony Adams, encourages researchers to use their own experiences as part of the analysis, as long as those experiences are connected to bigger social and institutional realities. At the time, the idea felt a little unusual, but also exciting. It made me wonder whether my own encounters with policies and institutions might actually matter as research material.

Like many researchers, I was trained to value data, reports, and evidence-based frameworks. Numbers, models, and official documents were the tools I trusted most. But when I started working on my master’s thesis, I realized that these tools don’t always provide the depth of a particular issue. Using autoethnography pushed me to pay attention to everyday moments, meetings, group discussions, and even decision-making processes that often get lost in research amd analysis but say a lot about how I incorporate knowledge into my outputs.

Indeed, autoethnography allows a researcher to not only write down their experience but also to take a step backward and look at the data before them, analyzing how their experiences relate to societal norms, values, and issues.

Image generated with AI

As I wrote my thesis, reflection became part of my research process. I began asking simple but important questions about my own experiences with research: Why did I use this information rather than that? Why use data from other regions instead of our neighboring countries? What I initially thought were just personal reactions often turned out to reflect institutional issues, like official preferences and other constraints.

The process wasn’t always easy. Writing about my own experiences meant being honest about uncertainty and discomfort. Still, it helped me see policy from another perspective. Abstract concepts suddenly felt real, and my research felt more grounded in lived reality than mere theory.

Using autoethnography allowed me to uncover the different ways I incorporate my knowledge in my area of expertise in my research. Only through careful reflection did I realize these practices existed. This process changed how I approach my job and deepened my understanding of my field.

Looking back, the biggest lesson I took from using autoethnography is this: good public policy research isn’t only about getting the analysis right, it’s also about paying attention to how we do our research, on the things we consider when we make our recommendations. Autoethnography taught me that reflection can be a strength, not a weakness, and that sometimes the most useful insights come from the everyday moments we often overlook.

The Black Nazarene: History, Devotion, and a Tradition That Moves a Nation

Image generated with AI

Every January, Manila transforms. Streets fill with barefoot devotees, yellow and maroon banners rise above the crowds, and the familiar rhythm of prayer echoes not only in Quiapo but even across the archipelago. The Feast of the Black Nazarene, reverently called Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno by his devotees, is more than a religious event.  It is a cultural phenomenon that reveals how faith, identity, and collective memory continue to shape Filipino life.

The Black Nazarene is a representation of a dark-skinned Christ carrying His cross on the right shoulder, wearing a maroon robe. He looks up towards heaven with a pained expression on His face.

The story of the Black Nazarene traces back to 1606, when Augustinian Recollect missionaries brought a life-sized image of Christ carrying the cross from Mexico to Manila. Carved from dark mesquite wood, the image’s color has long sparked myths. One popular belief I heard as a child was that the reason for the dark color of the image was that during its trip from Mexico to Manila, the ship it was on caught fire, and the image was burned, but only on the surface. People considered this a miracle. Later on, I learned that its origins are simpler: the wood it was made from itself was naturally dark.

The image quickly became a major focus of devotion from its first home in Bagumbayan to its later transfer to Intramuros.  In the 1700s, it found its permanent home in Quiapo Church, where it later on survived fires, earthquakes, and even the devastation of World War II. For the devotees, its survival through these almost catastrophic events reinforced their belief that the image is miraculous.

Over the centuries, the Black Nazarene has drawn people from every corner of the country: workers, students, vendors, professionals, families, and pilgrims who carry stories of struggle and hope. The church has become a sanctuary for those seeking healing, guidance, or simply a moment of contemplative surrender to the Poong Nazareno.

The heart of the devotion to the Poong Nazareno is the annual Traslación, held on January 9. This reenactment of the historic transfer of the image from Intramuros to Quiapo took shape at the 400th anniversary of the image in 2006, and has grown into the largest yearly expression of Catholic devotion in the Philippines.  I remember that before that time, the procession was only around the Quiapo district and its environs.  I even had an experience when I was in the area during the procession when there was a rush of people wanting to get near the Nazareno.  I had to take cover along with other people inside a bakery; otherwise, we would be crushed by the surge of devotees.

Millions of devotees join the procession each year, many walking barefoot as an act of humility and solidarity with Christ’s suffering. Others reach for the ropes of the andas, a wheeled platform heavily adorned with flowers and lights bearing the image, and pulled by devotees.  They believe that even the slightest touch of the ropes can bring healing or protection.

Even as I write this post, the celebration is already underway, and crowds are already gathering at the Luneta Park for Masses and other devotional activities.  There is even a nine-day novena prayer in Tagalog available from the Hallow app, which I pray after the Angelus. The novena includes the hymn Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno, composed by National Artist of the Philippines, Lucio San Pedro, to honor the image.

from hallow.com

The Pahalik, which takes place a day before the Traslación, is an act of devotion where pilgrims and devotees, some coming from far provinces, line up to touch, kiss, wipe with a handkerchief, or just pray before the life-sized statue of the Black Nazarene.   The scale of participation, often reaching millions, reflects not only religious fervor but also the deep cultural roots of this tradition. Devotees would line up for hours, yet they patiently wait and consider this part of their sacrifice and an expression of their faith.

Image generated with AI

The enduring devotion to the Black Nazarene reveals something essential about Filipino spirituality: faith is not a passive act. It is embodied, communal, and resilient. Some experts theorize that the Poon’s dark complexion forms a rich connection to the devotees.  Here is a Christ who looks familiar, who feels close, who understands the weight of human suffering.

In a country shaped by colonial history, natural disasters, and social challenges, the Black Nazarene stands as a symbol of perseverance. Every year, the Feast acts as a reminder that hope is not abstract; it is lived, carried, and shared.

Habemus Papam! Pope Leo XIV

 

credit: Vatican News

Habemus Papam!  The world witnessed a historic moment on May 8, 2025, when white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out, signaling the election of a new pope. The conclave of cardinals had chosen Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost, an American prelate, as the 267th Bishop of Rome, who took the papal name Pope Leo XIV. 

His election marks a turning point in Catholic history: not only because he is the first American pope, but because his life reflects the increasingly global nature of the Church.  His first words were, "Peace be with you all!" a greeting he explained that echoes the Risen Christ, offering a message of humble peace and love from God to the world, promoting unity and connection. 

When white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, something in the world seemed to pause. Even if we were thousands of miles away and only watching through our TV screens or computer monitors, the moment still felt surprisingly intimate: as if we were witnessing history unfold in real time.

For me, the election of a pope is more than a change in leadership. It represents both continuity and renewal.  It is a reminder for all of us that the Church endures not because it resists change, but because it understands how to carry its identity forward without losing its origins.  Pope Leo XIV brings his unique perspective and hopes, but he also steps into a role that connects our present to a long, venerated past. 

Resurrection Hand Balm from Aesop: Intense Hydration with a Soothing Smell

Moisturizing hands is an essential self-care practice that promotes healthy and well-nourished skin. Our hands are exposed to harsh environmental elements daily, frequent handwashing, and other activities that can lead to dryness, roughness, and even cracks. Moisturizing hands helps to replenish and lock in moisture, preventing dehydration and maintaining optimal skin hydration levels. Some moisturizer ingredients also attract water molecules from the air and bind them to the skin, improving its ability to retain moisture. That is why using hand moisturizers regularly can contribute to softer, smoother, and more elastic skin.

I am a big fan of hand moisturizers, which help alleviate skin irritations, redness, or inflammation, making them particularly beneficial for maintaining my sensitive skin health. I  also suffer from skin conditions like eczema once in a while. A friend recently told me to try the Resurrection Hand Balm from Aesop. She said it made wonders for her dry hands plus the balm really smells good.

from aesopskincare.ph

Aesop is a renowned Australian skincare brand that offers a range of high-quality beauty products. Known for its distinctive apothecary-style packaging and focus on botanical ingredients, Aesop has gained a reputation for producing effective and luxurious skincare, haircare, and body care products. It uses a combination of plant-based extracts, essential oils, antioxidants, and other natural ingredients in its formulations. 

Aesop Resurrection Hand Balm is one of Aesop's popular hand care products. It is a rich, non-greasy hand cream specifically formulated to moisturize and nourish the hands. The hand balm is enriched with a combination of nourishing ingredients, including mandarin rind, rosemary leaf, and cedar atlas, which lend the balm a refreshing scent.  Additionaly, it contains moisturizing agents like shea butter, cocoa seed butter, and sweet almond oil, known for their hydrating properties.

I've been using the product for almost one month now and I am quite satisfied with it.  The Resurrection Hand Balm is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving behind a non-greasy finish without any residue on the skin.   once used it while my hands were extremely dry and irritated, and it relieved the tightness that usually results from such conditions.   really love the citrusy scent that lasts a long time which is also soothing to the senses.  dditionally, while I am aware that it is primarily for the hands, I applied the product on other parts of my body, and it worked fine with my knees, heels, and elbows.

I recommend using the hand balm as needed throughout the day, especially after washing your hands or whenever your skin feels dry or in need of extra care.

Salawikain: Filipino Nuggets of Wisdom and Life Lessons

 I met some friends from college over the weekend; during our chat, one of them blurted out a Filipino saying, “palay na ang lumapit sa manok,” or “It’s the palay (rice) that came to the chicken.”   We laughed and then wondered if Filipinos still use these sayings or what we call “salawikain” in daily conversations.

Salawikain are short sayings that offer wisdom, insights, and guidance on various aspects of life. These proverbs are deeply rooted in Filipino culture and used by elders to impart moral values and lessons to the younger generation.

Our discussion shifted to these sayings, and we had fun explaining what we thought they meant. Let me share some of the salawikain that cropped up during our talk.

 Let’s begin with the one that started the conversation,”palay na ang lumapit sa manok.”  or  “It is the rice that came to the chicken.” The saying connotes that someone got lucky since the opportunity presented itself to him. Often though, it takes a negative meaning, like in our chat, where the speaker talked about a friend who had an affair because the woman made the first moves. What else can he do since “palay na ang lumapit sa manok.” NOTE: I know this example could trigger some people, but I do not intend to cause harm, and  I am just putting some context.

If anyone wants to say something unpleasant and doesn't want to name the persons involved, she'd probably say "Bato bato sa langit, tamaan ay huwag magalit" or "rocks in the sky, whoever get gets hit should not get angry."  If it is something that should remain secret, the speaker should be warned that "may tainga ang lupa, may pakpak ang balita" or "the ground has ears and stories have wings," which implies that stories could spread fast 

One of the most well-known Filipino proverbs is “Kung may tiyaga, may nilaga,"  which translates to "If one has patience, he will have soup." This proverb highlights the value of hard work, patience, and determination in achieving one's goals. Perhaps our ancestors used nilaga as a metaphor for hard work because it was hard to cook before pressure cookers and slow cookers. Nilaga consists of beef slowly boiled until the meat is tender before adding potatoes, cabbage, and other vegetables. Of course, they only have wood stoves and clay pots to cook in, so it must have taken a lot of patience and hard work.

A similar proverb is "Habang may buhay, may pag-asa." (While there is life, there is hope.) This proverb reminds us that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, there is always hope for a better future. My favorite salawikain reflects the Filipino’s resilience and our ability to make the most of what we have: “Kung maigsi ang kumot, matutong mamuluktot” or “If the blanket is short, learn to curl.”

 On the flipside is the saying, "Ang taong nagigipit, sa patalim man ay kumakapit,” which means, "A desperate person  will cling even to a sharp edge." This proverb suggests that people will do whatever it takes to survive in difficult situations, even if it means taking risks or doing something unlawful.

 Filipino proverbs often encourage people to remain humble and treat others with respect. For example, "Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan." This proverb says, "Those who do not look back at where they came from will not reach their destination." This proverb reminds people of the importance of remembering their roots and acknowledging those who helped them along the way. 

"Huwag kang magtiwala sa di mo kakilala,"  (Do not trust people you do not know) cautions against trusting strangers.  "Ang sakit ng kalingkingan ay ramdam ng buong katawan," (The whole body feels the pain of the smallest finger) stresses the importance of every part of society and that the problems in a small area could affect the entire community. Finally, “aanhin pa ang damo kung patay na ang kabayo” (what’s the grass for when the horse is already dead) teaches us to solve our problems immediately and not wait until it is too late.

Filipino proverbs play an essential role in Filipino culture and are an excellent way to impart wisdom, values, and insights to the younger generation. They offer guidance on various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and personal development. Whether used in casual conversations or formal settings, these proverbs are integral to Filipino culture and identity.

Do you know any salawikain aside from what I shared?  Please share in the comments section.

All images created using Canva

Hallow: The App for Catholic Meditation and Prayer for the Holy Week

The Holy Week begins tomorrow, and many of us Catholic Filipinos will observe the practices we usually do during this period.  For some, this is an excellent time to meditate on the passion of our Lord Jesus Christ.  While some Filipinos do the “pabasa,” reading of the passion narrative through song, not all of us can do it. We would just observe through the recitation of the Way of the Cross, and praying of the rosary, and others.  Now, there's a new app that could help us in our meditation and prayer life named Hallow.

Hallow is a popular Catholic meditation and prayer app that offers audio-based guided meditations, daily reflections, and Bible-based content to help users deepen their spiritual practice.  The app has gained popularity among Christians looking to incorporate meditation into their daily lives.

One thing that sets Hallow apart is the quality of its content. The app offers a wide range of meditations and reflections based on scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church and designed to meet the needs of users with different spiritual backgrounds and preferences. Aside from guided meditations, it includes audio recordings of various prayers, such as the Rosary, Angelus, and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. The app also provides prayer challenges, which focus on specific themes and are usually time-bound. The current challenge is the #Pray40 Challenge for Lent. If you want to test your knowledge, there's daily trivia on the Catholic faith.

I downloaded the app from the AppStore and now regularly listen to the Daily Reflections on the day’s Gospel with Jeff Cavins and Jonathan Roumie, the actor who plays Jesus Christ on the TV series “The Chosen.”  I listen to the Sunday Sermons of Bishop Barron, the founder of the Catholic organization Word on Fire. I started listening to the Catechism in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz, which started early this year.  

I also like the music section, which contains chants, and contemporary and traditional music. Last Christmas season, the app featured the entire album of Christmas songs from Andre Bocelli and his family. They recently added a lo-fi playlist that you could play while getting ready in the morning, studying, or working. 

With over 400,000 Filipino users across the globe, Hallow started offering meditations and prayers in Filipino in October last year. Yes, you can pray the rosary, Divine Mercy prayer, selected novenas and other prayers in Tagalog. I follow Fr. Franz Dizon's daily reflection on the gospel in Pagninilay Ngayon. There is also a section on the life of the saints named "Buhay ng Mga Banal."  

Many users praise the Hallow app for helping them deepen their faith and improve their prayer life. The app's user-friendly interface is easy to navigate, making it easy for users to find the content they want. The app also offers a community feature that allows users to connect with other members and share their spiritual journey.  

I have just one issue with this app, and that is the voice and delivery of some of the prayer guides. I know that prayer should be meditative, but the guides speak so slowly that some of the prayers take longer to finish than usual. 

Hallow is also affordable. The app offers a 14-day free trial period, after which users can choose to subscribe to the premium version of the app. The premium version gives users access to more meditations and features but is still affordable compared to other meditation apps on the market. At about PhP600 a month, the subscription is worth the cost.

Overall, the Hallow app is an excellent tool for Christians who want to deepen their spiritual practice through meditation and prayer.  The app's high-quality content, user-friendly interface, and affordability make it popular among users.

Images from Hallow

A Blessed Easter to Everyone!

 

VISITA IGLESIA 2022: New and Familiar Churches Around Quezon City

 We just completed our Visita Iglesia this year.  We weren't able to do this in the past two years due to the quarantine restrictions imposed by the government to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Compared to the last time we observed this tradition, the mood in most churches was more subdued, and people were seriously praying their rosaries and Stations of the Cross.

We decided to go to churches in Quezon City at sunset when the Lord's Supper Mass was about to begin.  The Mass at the first church we visited had already started.  Along Cordillera St., the Our Lady of Fatima Parish is near our house.  

From this church, we went to Mayon Street.  We visited the Parish of Sta Teresita, which houses a Capuchin monastery.  The church has been on the land donated by the Araneta family since before the last World War.  I couldn't get a good angle of the exterior, but I managed to take a picture of the altar from where we were seated.  

We went a few blocks from the place and reached the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. I found out that the original shrine was in Intramuros until it got destroyed during the Second World War.  When missionaries found the image, they brought it to the Sta Teresita Church we earlier visited.  The icon stayed there until the Capuchins had the new shrine built and completed in 1977.

 Following the customs of the Catholic Church, the statues and images inside the church were draped in purple cloth.

 

The next church we visited was the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine along Broadway St. in New Manila.  The shrine is the center of devotion for the Brown Scapular.  As expected, the traffic was heavy in the church's vicinity, so we decided to walk the few meters to the church.  

We visited the St. Joseph Convent of Perpetual Adoration for our fifth church.  The place is in the middle of Hemady St, a road dotted with old and modern mansions. The convent is home to the Pink Sisters, an order of cloistered nuns who spend their day praying.  You can even ask them to pray for your special intentions.  The exterior was not well lit, so sorry for the poor quality of the photo.

Our first choice for our sixth stop was Christ the King Seminary, but the traffic going inside was heavy. We decided to go to Sto. Domingo Church instead.  While our goal was to visit churches we hadn't visited in our previous Visita Iglesia, we decided on the church since it was more accessible from where we were.

We were surprised that there were fewer people this year visiting the church.  Perhaps the devotees visited earlier in the afternoon and left after the Mass.  There were still groups praying at the Stations of the Cross when we arrived.

We ended this year's Visita Iglesia at our parish church, the Most Holy Trinity Parish Church in Manila, as part of the tradition.  This church is very memorable to me.  I went to hear Mass every Sunday in this church during my elementary school days.  It went through a lot of renovation over the years, but the basic structure is still there.  Beside the church is the school where I finished elementary school, and then I transferred to a different school.  

After saying our prayers, we headed home and planned to do this again next year with God's grace. Hopefully, we can visit churches we haven't gone to or even those farther from our location.