Friday, September 26, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Power lesbian couples: can be your favorite celebrities and/or olympians
It's so heartwarming to see happy lesbian couples in public. Homosexuals who can show their affection openly are freer than most people, as I'd like to think. Of course, it's really up to anyone whether to keep things hush hush: it's all a matter of freedom of choice. But I guess what I find so powerful about being a public image is that it's a self-justifying pronouncement of love: that it's about the two of you and not the people who are watching.
A (now very rich) paparazzi on a helicopter shoots Ellen and Portia on their supposedly private wedding day. Well, it may not be as public as we thought, but the girls did announce their engagement prior to this.
Now Let's check out the Olympians! 
That's Romanian gymnast Sandra Izbasa (gold medalist) and her coach Russian Yelena Zamolodchikova. And no it's not a customary greeting in either Romania or Russia for girls to kiss on the lips. Natia (bronze medalist) at the back looks jealous.
Gro Hammerseng and Katja Nyberg have been open about their relationship since 2006. The two are members of the same women’s handball team that represented their country in the Olympics. Gro is the captain of the team and has twice been voted the tournament’s most valuable player in the European Women’s Handball Championship. Katja also has her own MVP under her belt, which happened after recovering from a serious leg injury.
In a potentially cheesy anecdote of the two, when Gro was being interviewed right after Katja had her injury she was teary-eyed.
Yes, that was very cheesy.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Why you should care about the ARMM situation
I have been closely scrutinizing the GRP-MILF dialogue since I've stumbled on hearsay, a little over a month ago, that portents of war were looming over Mindanao come August. From the looks of it now, the rumor seemed almost premeditated, if not genuinely wary of the shaky negotiations. For more than a year there were hardly any developments in the Mindanao peace talks, stalling any drastic movements from either side of the politics. There have been no sizeable measures to reprieve the Bangsamoro lobbyists from their historical wounds, and yes that includes their claim to their ancestral domain.
The issue of Bansamoro ancestral domain is contentious insofar as the confusion between determining, ultimately, the scale of its territory as the scale of the Bangsamoro people's jurisdiction as opposed to the historical, theoretical and demographic placement of the Moros. The latter is clearly in favor of the GRP argument in status quo: MILF has no legitimate legal framework as far as the unitary system is concerned. Despite that GRP has no qualms about the historical veracity of claims to ancestral domains, the truth is, the areas which are mentioned for the taking are currently inclusive in the unitary framework and therefore in order for them to be a "juridical entity" by itself, a transition is necessary to shift the balances of power. Yes, there can be a legitimate process of granting ancestral domain but the MOA does not ensure the transition immediately. The truth is, the abrupt MOA sidestepped other constituents of Mindanao in the process and appear to be problematic. How do you suppose GMA (out of embarrassment or again, premeditation) proposed for charter change? It's the only way for the MOA to be more than, as Fr. Jouquin Bernas, S.J. once said, "just a piece of paper".
However, we can also imagine how this is such an emotional issue for the Bangsamoros who were demographically displaced by settlers and the GRP alike, losing the very romanticized MinSuPala Kingdom. Many historians have blotted out the history of the Moros and have simplified the birth of the Philippines with the unity of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao; leaving the Moros with a bitter indignation over numerous atrocities that have lingered to the present. To date, ARMM is the poorest region in the Philippines, and has the lowest GDP. Whether or not the interest of ARMM in fully assuming its autonomous aspirations includes the noble act of ensuring a more generous allocation of its own resource, it can't be helped that other entities interested in the dialogue have voiced their opposition and scrutiny, empowered by no less than democracy. But instead of improving the process and receiving the criticisms constructively, the rejoinders have only irritated the Bangsamoro's end. This is symptomatic of an awry and perhaps, precarious fundamentalism which insists its political ideology forcefully on all parties concerned. The most self-evident manifestation of fundamentalism is in incorporating extreme modern methods like war to forward their political ends.
On the subject of war, it beguiles me more as a humanitarian concern more than a political one. YOU should care that many Moros, Indigenous People and anyone who could come from a different background are about to die NEEDLESSLY because war broke out. Education is stunted in the region, leaving many children out of school and in constant search of refuge with their families. I might be hearing the strange but morbid K.I.A. (Killed In Action) about someone's father or relative in the months to come. In conclusion, I feel that as we sift through the nervous exchange of GRP, MILF and all of the people who are affected by the situation, it's no longer in the onset of who is against the Bangsamoro Juridical Entity or not: we worry more about what price we have to pay altogether in ensuring that everyone can coexist peacefully.
Friday, June 27, 2008
A grand banquet at Banana Leaf Asian Cafe
Just the other day, Blogie, Andrew, Ria and I gluttonously and painstakingly tried out Banana Leaf's new menu. I came to the conclusion that the restaurateur so generously decided to feed us, oh, just about EVERYTHING. I was stuffed! And to think among all of us, I ate the least because I don't eat meat, naturally. I must say however, most of the meaty/chickeny/fishy food served on the table look so temptingly scrumptious even though they were a no-go for me. Thankfully, I had a few dishes that are considerably veg-friendly. Kenneth who hosted us that night was so gracious (and slightly worried) about my being a vegetarian. Turns out, the dude's mom owns Kong Ai Vegetarian Centrum, my favorite vegetarian restaurant in the entire metro: Go you!
The Goodie Foodie Doodie
The meal began with a Malaysian appetizer called Roti Dog in Mango or Curry Sauce. Of course, to appreciate this, I had to push out the dog and eat the remaining contents contained in its supple layer. Either sauce is a wonderful dip for the Roti, but can be a matter of preference in the end. I am leaning towards experimenting the taste with the Mango dip, which was in crisp contrast with the tomato-filled Roti.
This was hastily followed by Vietnamese Prawn Ball with Cheese, Singaporean Prawn Toast, Deep Friend Pandan Chicken (not in picture), Half Hainese Chicken, and one of my favorites the Shrimp Wanton Soup otherwise known as Curry Laksa. We weren't at the Entrees yet but I could see the other bloggers squirming every time they brought in another dish, not having finished the last one. Meanwhile, I was gingerly sipping my soup, waiting for the upcoming wave of what I'd later realize were HEAVY DUTY DISHES.
The Knockouts
Why do Asians love rice? It's actually the most basic food in the region. It is probably an Asian's primary source of Energy. Rice is enshrined and coveted by its eager daily consumers, even at a painfully high price. To the outside world, Asians are criticized by how BORING rice is for an everyday meal. Little do they know of the many ways of making it taste interesting and flavorful. Banana Leaf's Vietnamese Fried Rice is an excellent testimony to this inventive cuisine.
They likewise served us another kind of rice called the Nari Goreng (not in picture) which is leaning towards the sweeter side, unlikely for the common rice variety.
The Entrees features several rich dishes that might tease your palette. Unfortunately, they do not serve vegetarian versions of every single dish (had it been the case I'd have a longer review by now). They served Honey Garlic Spareribs (not in picture), Penang Char Kway Toew, Malayan Beef Curry and Potatoes, Banana Leaf Orange Chicken and Wok Fried Squid With Basil Leaves & Chili (also not in picture). I hear that they are all good, but I'm particularly aware of the gracious comments made by most testers on the Steamed Hong Kong Fish Fillet with Garlic (upper right). Hmm, okay I used to like Fish a lot but then I saw Mr. Fishy (Tilapia Fillet with Malayan Cream Sauce)...
My Precious
Vegetables. Banana Leaf is, in my opinion, very vegetarian friendly. And although Kenneth admits of not being prepared for my vegetarian-ness, I was able to score heftily on the food they served.
I indulged on their Macau Style Baked Mixed Vegetables in Portuguese Sauce (middle) which was a confluence of the trademark sour Chinese taste as well as the thick buttery texture of the sauce. I ended up soloing the Crabmeat with Vegetables and Stir Fried Vermicelli with Curry flavor (which reminds me of South African cuisine). It was so interesting mixing intercontinental tastes on one sitting. For instance, the Crabmeat with Veggies has a distinctly Chinese influence, which might come across as bland for some but it's simplicity of taste endears me. I like the fact that it reminds me so much of my childhood eating out for lunch at a Chinese Restaurant every Sunday. On top of that, its contrast with the Vermicelli is astounding. The Vermicelli has a very strong aroma and has a very sophisticated texture. The curry surprisingly doesn't overpower the plaintive taste of the noodle and the other vegetables on top. It's a very well-balanced dish and I LOVED it and highly recommend it to all my readers.
'Ze Sweets: Last but not 'Ze least
I believe that no words can adequately describe how heavenly their desserts and drinks were. Well, a picture paints a thousand words, right?
(L-R top: Sago Pudding in Thai Pandan Leaf, Coconut Custard Sankaya; bottom: Chilled Mango Cream with Pomelo, Sweet Sago Soup with Coconut Milk)
As you can see, from the looks of the first two desserts they served, I already took a bite from it before I could even take picture haha. I do think that it's a good idea to TRY all of the desserts since each one has its own character. For example, the Chilled Mango Cream with Pomelo has a tangy taste that goes straight to the back of your jaw, whilst the Pomelo bits balances the sweetness. If you follow this up with the Sweet Sago Soup with Coconut Milk the watermelon bits can refresh your taste buds. By the way, I almost forgot to mention that before everything was served they let us try their Iced Tea Tarik Malaysian Pulled Tea a sweet condensed milk based tea that can make you smile and the Iced Chrysanthemum Tea Shake (which some of us thought had a beer-like texture) had what some of us noticed was an acquired taste.
The Leftover Shot
You get what I mean by the looks of it. I do think the amount of food they served for this dinner was too overwhelming. Good thing we Pinoys do Take Home.
People
Banana Leaf is a great place to enjoy a full meal and some company; neither of which have been taken for granted. Here are just some of the people from the grub fest:
Little do we know about the real culprit behind this sinister feast. All we know is that his name is Bong. I doubt that's even his real name, hmm.
The victims.While the boys were practicing foodnography Ria was whimpering halfway through her meal, battered by the magnanimous amount of food on her table. And who is that creep flailing a Discount Certificate!?
Pray, tell, if we're 3 pounds heavier!
Check out the other pictures from this album.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Radio Interview about Vegetarianism
Mix FM has a Sunday night show called Viewfinder hosted by my friend Maya Vandenbroek, and this last episode's topic was all about Vegetarianism. Kaye and I were invited to the show along with a couple of other vegetarians and two carnivores. Yes, I'm too late to tell you all about it, but hey, I've got a few pics!
We arrived a little bit late but Maya let us in anyway to meet the other two Vegetarians. Sorry if this looks blurry but I took this in a fluster. To the left is Fritzov the Belgian guy and the guy in orange is a leader of Ananda Marga known as "Dada".
The four of us (myself, Kaye and the two foreigners) barraged the radio show with massive information about Vegetarianism. Dada had this interesting story about a University in America that only served vegetables in the cafeteria. If a student went looking for meat the cook would lead the kid to a nearby farm where cows and pigs ran amuck. "You kill it, I'll cook for you," the cook would tell them. Stomach that carnivores!
Near the end of the show, Maya is half-convinced to go Vegetarian. The guy at the back had this incredulous look on his face the entire time. I think we really shook some senses. In fact I saw one of their technicians at the Kong Ai Vegetarian Centrum at Gempasaw the very next day!
Here are our beloved Carnivores! Members of PETA (According to Dom People Eating Tasty Animals). Karla and Bruneson are also half-convinced. Bruneson tried out going veggie over the summer and got shockingly thin. Karla wants to do what the French women do: to keep eating meat with gusto. But don't the French serve their meals in such small servings? I mean, they invented the ala carte! You know how some of us think it was a bad idea because it's just one mouthful.
Oh, and the obligatory pictorial. Meet the Sunday night gang:
Happy eating!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
TV interview about Vegetarianism
Kaye and I were interviewed for a local lifestyle show for GMA this afternoon about vegetarianism and the works. If you want to see how stupid I look on TV, that's showing this Sunday 10:30 AM. Hah.
Too bad, I can't watch it because I will be in a workshop at the IIPE office. Yikes. Nick de Ocampo in Davao on the weekend. The guy has thoughts worth gems.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Suprise me
If you read this journal, even if I don't speak to you often, post a memory of me.
It can be anything you want.
It can be good or bad, just so long as it happened.
Then post this on your journal too!
Be surprised (or not) about what people remember about you :)
Go ahead and reply.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Inspired by CRM's poetry: Reveling at how a stern soul can have such dolorous convictions
In not knowing
In not knowing where
the current shall take me
of this sea of people,
my heart is valiant and indubitable
stubborn of the stark
cynical truth
I gaze into your marked eyes
for signs of fragility
and forte, thence I ask
Will you shun me?
In not knowing how
In not knowing when,
for I predict blindly
that there is a cusp for
theory and conviction!
Dreams and practical desire
Is it my naught, then,
to drift away from the waters of your soul?
To be ashened by
my tumultous resistance
of plausibilities?
To withdraw
my deathly grasp
of hope?
Friday, March 14, 2008
Why we'd love to snog Ellen DeGeneres.
Yes, them dykes and fags love our Ellen. And WHY WE WANNA KNOCK THE WIND OUT OF PEOPLE THE LIKES OF SALLY KERN. Naku!
Sally Kern's message excerpted in Ellen's show are among the MANY tirades she has made in her "political" career. Two points I want to raise on this message:
1.) The entire hate speech she gave to that assembly mentioned higher death rates among homosexuals due to occurences of suicide, higher rates of psychological distress, shorter lifespans and (slippery-slope-ly) attributes this to "sinful" gay lifestyle. She fails to mention how in most of these researches, discrimination and homonegativity are attributed to these results (i.e. because of people like her). Moreover, studies show that gay domestic violence is a load of crock if your assumption is that it's likely to happen among gay and lesbian couples (when there are any, it is considered by profilers as a 'mutual assault'). The truth is among most of these profiles of gay domestic violence happen among gay male adolescents who are abused and or raped in the home, usually by an uncle or older brother, but sometimes by the father.
2.) Am I really more dangerous than a terrorist?
I miss having Ellen shown on our cable network. *frowns* On the plus side, for all you curious cats out there, The L word is showing on Velvet at night time (terse whisper: it's a show about lesbiannnzzz!) Finally, you know, some real cable shows. UNFORTUNATELY, they cut out the really juicy scenes that are makatibo or if you're a guy, makes you wish you were born a girl so you can be gay, heh.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
What career do I want, really?
In the middle of writing my paper, one of four I'm hastily attempting to conjure by Friday zee deadliest of deadlines, I had an epiphany. What do I really want to do? I mean, pouring my heart in research and writing vigorously: is that what I want my life to become? A perpetual minutia of paperwork, a synthesis of data collection? I always thought of myself as the anti-thesis of the made-for-desk-job person. And yet here I am on my desk, doing what could possibly be my job prospect.
You know one of my professors told us the other day that (obviously) their teaching jobs in the University just don't cut their daily expenses. They get their bread and wine from research projects. I took a moment to illustrate what that'd be like and I realized it could mean just about anything. Imagine the bookish Sociologist hitting the statistics and trying to make sense out of these, arguing with theories, extracting visible examples and finally, formulating a mathematically concrete prognosis. Shivers. And then there are those working in the ranks of Social development from the Social workers talking to people on the ground and explaining to them why they should use a condom or asking their respondents why they don't in the first place. Or the big time Sociologist dancing in circles of the academics and policy makers, flying from one country to another attending conventions (sounds familiar)... I can barely count the ways. I think I want to be a big time sociologist if that's the case. I want to be jettisoned around for my personal learning. Maybe, write a book about it someday, not necessarily within the confines of my Sociological imagination.
But my fascination in the humankind is not statistical or not reducible to the conflicts that they face. I asked myself once if I wanted to be the Conflict-Theory kind of Sociologist or be plain ol' Structural-Functional or the fanciful Symbolic-Interactionist. WHAT. I don't know. I just like studying human groups, that's all. I'm talking about groups because the individual scenario is so awe-inspringly overdone and overrated and are not universal at times. It's difficult to affect change in an individual because it begins to hinge on freedom of choice, but you try to work on social change it's usually out of necessity. Not that I'm saying that the Social Science field is all about JUST change, but I'd like to think we're on the side of development and understanding. And speaking of which, I dislike it when people expressly show bias against other Social Science fields just because they fancy themselves to have more superior theories or what. I remember when I was a fresh major, I found myself stupidly staring back at this guy at the SS office when he expressed his "surprise" that I chose Sociology over Psychology, the latter he apparentely favors. He told me, "If you're cerebral perhaps you should take up Psychology". This really took me aback I wanted to get my Introductory Macionis manual and flail it on his face.
Would it sound sexy if someone introduced me as, "Hey, this is Kim she's a Sociologist!" Yikes. It doesn't have the same effect as being introduced as an Economist *blink blink*. It's so hard to imagine it without shuddering or laughing at myself. I'd rather be known as a name and not the job title. If anything, my background is auxillary to why people know me. YES, I think I have ambitions of fame and I'm lame for admitting to that. But I honestly want to be a resource for learning and you know, development or something. It'd be nice for people to come up to me, telling me they know me and my work and that they want to take me aside so that they can hear what I'm about to say. It sounds like an impossibility for me now, seeing as how I'm not so learned myself, yet. Sigh.
I'm procrastinating, excuse me. Actually, guys, I want to be a filmmaker or a creative writer. Whichever, take your pick.
***
I read my RSS feeds like a zombie, but this headline popped right at me:
Two teenaged girls who were kicked out of their Christian high school in Riverside County for having a lesbian relationship have lost their legal battle to have their explusion addressed in a discrimination case. The judge dismissed the case for having no legal basis; representatives from the school are pleased, reportedly saying "the religious school has a right to expel sinners."
CHRIST! My bleeding heart!
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