WATCH: Berlin, Germany


Here is my video of my short trip to Berlin, Germany.



For more blogposts about Berlin, click below.

Berlin Part 1
Berlin Part 2


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Cebuano: The Language and The People

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Living in Norway for over 2 years, I have often encountered questions about the languages I speak. I usually answered I speak Norwegian, English and two Filipino languages. Then, people start asking if the second Filipino language is a dialect of the other. Given my mother tongue is Cebuano, the second language referred, I abruptly debunk the misconcept that it is a mere dialect. My most common explanation is that all Filipinos speak the Filipino language, but those who only learn to speak Filipino have difficult time understanding or communicating with one speaking Cebuano. Throughout the span of my childhood, I got to grasp the political and cultural differences of Filipinos speaking Filipino language or Tagalog as referred by most, and those coming from the Southern Philippines speaking Cebuano. The language in itself has become the boundary between the two groups of people. Due to their innate differences, misunderstandings result, not because of mere language confusion, but of cu...
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Emotionless

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Emotions affect the way one think, which in turn affects all the things that happen to someone. I have always believed on this. Since I was very young, I developed gradually the process of becoming "emotionless". Is this possible? How could this affect one and decisions in life? Subjectivity is a term that relates to emotions. When we become so happy, we feel too elated that we want the feeling to linger more. Some even think that being happy may cause one to worry for something sad that may happen afterwards. I was once part of these few people, who believed on the temporary nature of happiness. Now, no more I believe on this, for becoming successful involves one to believe that life of abundance is possible. This can only be achieved if one focuses on goals in life and repeats this continuously in the mind, regardless on, whether it may be possible or not. Unfortunately, extreme focus is not an easy task. This involves one to be very objective on things, leading to ...
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7 Reasons Why Many Filipinos are Good Singers

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One thing that makes me proud of being Filipino is that there are many good singers in our country. I am not saying that the Philippines has the best singers in the world, but it is obvious that many Filipinos have showed to the world the God-given talent they have. 1. Parents encourage their children to develop their singing talents Children singing old songs and acting as if the song fits them well. Love songs, rock, whatever genre songs maybe Filipino children can sing that. Some even report that children learn humming a melody before able to speak well. Ofcourse, parents are very crucial in the development of this talents. If a talent has been acknowledged at an early age, this provides time for child to improve his or her talent in singing. Watch the newly-launced TV show Voice Kids Philippines. 2. Competition helps produce more good singers The most-watched Television shows in the Philippines are singing competition. Most artists are discovered in these platform...
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Deeper Perspective on the Concept of Care

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Among various nationalities serving American and European hospitals, Filipino nurses are considered the favorite due to the so-called “tender loving care”. Friendly, competent and collaborative, nursing homes, hospitals and wellness centers demand Filipino nurses, because of their distinct caring quality, aside from their language and educational advantage. Aside from this, Jocano asserts that movie themes and Filipino songs show how soft-hearted and sentimental Filipinos are. As “pusong-mamon”, Filipinos are emotional. This puts Filipinos good caregivers and nurses. However, there still exist a need to know what care really is. Several theorists and authors attempt to explain and describe the essence of the nursing profession – caring. One of them is Jean Watson, an American nursing scholar who specializes in psychiatric-mental health nursing and educational psychology and counseling. In connection this, nurses in various parts of the world study published works of Watson, descri...
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Metanoia: A Journey of Transformation

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Imagine a caterpillar undergoing metamorphosis, emerging from its cocoon as a majestic butterfly. This metamorphosis represents metanoia, a process of shedding old limitations and embracing new possibilities. Similarly, in human experience, metanoia manifests as a journey of self-discovery and growth. This is the focus of this blogpost. Metanoia, a term originating from Greek, encapsulates the profound concept of transformative change. It signifies a shift in one's mindset, a deep inner transformation leading to a fundamental change in perspective, beliefs, and behaviors. Examples of metanoia include personal growth. A person stuck in negative thought patterns and self-limiting beliefs can experience metanoia through therapy or self-reflection. They let go of fear and embrace self-compassion, leading to greater confidence and fulfillment. In addition, society often undergoes metanoia, catalyzed by collective movements or paradigm shifts. For instance, the civil rights m...
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80/20 Rule: How Pareto's Principle Shapes Our Daily Lives

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In a world full of numbers and percentages, there's one rule that stands out as both intriguing and surprisingly applicable to our everyday activities: the Pareto Principle. Personally, I first came to know about this principle from an exam question, which I unfortunately did not unanswered correctly. However, this same principle has guided me in helping me meet my income goal inspite of working less. So, what's the deal with this fancy-sounding principle, and how does it affect our daily lives? Well, buckle up, because I'm about to spill the beans, in plain terms! The Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, is like the ultimate life hack. It states that roughly 80% of results come from 20% of the efforts. In simpler terms, it means that a small portion of what you do will lead to most of your achievements. Let's dive into the world of work. I've hopped from job to job, experiencing the good, the bad, and the quirky. Here's how the Pa...
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Bullying: A Part of Filipino Culture?

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Bullying became a hot topic in Norway today after a young teenager died of emaciation due to eating disorder that was primarily linked to anxiety from bullying at school. This was quite taboo in this Scandinavian country, given the nation is very keen on respecting socio-cultural differences and on protection against any form of discrimination. Discussions have been made on how to handle and prevent bullying and who takes the responsibility in these cases, whether the family, school or the State. Personally, I was not reacting in anyway as my mind says the concept is remote and almost impossible to happen in the Philippines. Perhaps, I was referring it to death, but not to bullying. However, after several days I was quite uneasy on the topic and further asked myself if I was ever bullied before and what it has caused me in the long-term basis. To my surprise, bullying was a crucial point in my childhood. My coping skills allowed me to hide in my consciousness what had happened...
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Noblesse Oblige: A Guiding Principle

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Some ideas refuse to disappear, even when the world changes around them. One of them is the French expression Noblesse Oblige. It simply means that privilege comes with responsibility. If life has given you education, opportunity, influence, or success, then you have a duty to use those gifts for something greater than yourself. It is an old idea, perhaps even an unfashionable one, but I think it still deserves a place in the modern world. I have thought about this a lot over the past few years. When I left the Philippines and moved to Norway, I did not arrive with privilege. Like many immigrants, I started almost from the beginning. I had to learn a new language, adapt to a different culture, rebuild my career, and prove myself again. Nothing was handed to me. Every step forward came through long shifts, sacrifices, studying after work, and refusing to give up when life became difficult. Today, I live a life that my younger self could only imagine. ...
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Is it Socialism or Populism?

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"Are you confused about the difference between socialism and populism? It's like the difference between giving everyone a small slice of the cake or promising a few people the whole cake. Let's take a closer look!" There are some politicians that are associated with socialism but some would consider them representing the ideology of populism. This is the focus of this blogpost. Allow me to clarify the distinction between populism and socialism. Populism is a political approach that seeks to resonate with the general populace, often challenging the established elites. Populist leaders might make sweeping promises to gain popular support, even if such promises might be challenging to keep in the long run. An instance could be a leader pledging to reduce taxes for all, regardless of the long-term economic implications. On the other hand, to understand socialism, consider this simple analogy: Imagine you have five candies and five children. Your goal is to dis...
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Pahiluna: The Cebuano Art of Relaxation

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In a world where life seems to be a never-ending race, a moment of respite is a precious gem. Enter "Pahiluna," a beautiful Cebuano word that embodies the essence of unwinding, letting go, and savoring the art of relaxation. It's like discovering a hidden treasure chest of tranquility in the midst of life's chaotic seas. This is the focus of this blogpost. First things first, let's demystify this word. Pahiluna isn't just a word; it's an experience, a state of mind, and a lifestyle all rolled into one. It's that moment when you throw your cares to the wind, kick back, and embrace the now. Pahiluna is the ultimate antidote to the relentless pace of modern life. Let's paint some vivid examples of Pahiluna in action. Imagine yourself on a pristine Cebu beach, your toes luxuriating in the soft sand, and a freshly cracked coconut in hand. As the sun gracefully dips below the horizon, you immerse yourself in Pahiluna, serenaded by the soothin...
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