A Journey to the Himalayas and Beyond
By Janet Belarmino Forney
But Island peak, the first climb on our schedule, caught me off guard. As we set up camp at the base of the mountain, I started to feel dizzy and nauseous, and my appetite plummeted as if I were already at a higher altitude.
Janet Belarmino Forney and husband, Todd Forney, at the Mt. Everest summit.
As a member of the Philippine team preparing for a women's summit bid to Mt. Everest in 2007, I was no stranger to the demands of high-altitude climbing. We had a series of training climbs lined up to get us ready for the main event, including Island Peak (Imja Tse) in the Himalayas and Mt. Denali in North America for sub-zero temperature training, as well as Mt. Cho Oyu for high-altitude exposure. I was in top form, with a solid track record of successful training climbs behind me, and I was confident in my ability to handle whatever the mountain had in store for us.
I assumed it was just normal altitude sickness and pressed on, but as we climbed higher, my symptoms worsened. My head felt like it was going to explode, and I was cold, sick, and miserable. I pushed through it, determined not to let the team down, and eventually, we reached the summit.
But when I got there, all I wanted to do was sleep. The temptation to close my eyes and succumb to the silence was overwhelming. It took a Herculean effort to force myself awake, and it took several grueling hours to make it back down to base camp in one piece. When the climb was over and we returned home to the Philippines, I discovered the true cause of my symptoms: I was eight weeks pregnant.
The news came as a shock, and I was flooded with a mix of emotions.
Eventually, after much reflection and soul-searching, I decided to keep the life inside me. I remained active and healthy throughout my pregnancy, planning to climb again after giving birth. But when my son Himalaya arrived, everything changed. Suddenly, I was faced with a tough decision: to climb or not to climb.
In the end, I chose to climb. I reconciled with myself and the universe, knowing that this was my way of leaving a legacy for Himalaya. The climb was tough, both physically and mentally, but knowing that I had a reason to make it back alive kept me going.
The 3 Filipinas successfully reached the summit of Mt. Everest and established a world record to be the first and only women in the history of Mt. Everest to traverse - climb up - from Tibet, Northside, and descend down to Nepal, the South side. A record that has never been repeated yet until this day.
(Click here to continue with the article.)
My head felt like it was going to explode, and I was cold, sick, and miserable. I pushed through it, determined not to let the team down, and eventually, we reached the summit.
Disclaimer
News, articles, and comments in this publication do not represent the opinions and views of the Philippine government, its embassies and consulates around the world, leaders and members of any interest groups, or the editorial staff of this publication, with the exception of the incumbent Chief Editor. Any mistakes or derogatory statements herein, if any, are the sole responsibility of Dahil Sa'Yo's Chief Editor. For any comments, please write to teamdsy@dahilsayo.org.
Invitation
The Dahilsayo Publication aims to chronicle and immortalize the creative works of overseas Filipinos. We invite contributions in the form of articles, essays, photographs, digital copies of paintings, artistic pieces, and others. Please write and send them to teamdsy@dahilsayo.org.
EDITORIAL
By Dr. Godofredo Cristobal Utanes
Resilience, hard work, and determination are virtues needed in this era filled with signs as though the world is at its eleventh hour. One's spirit can easily be dampened by the major global issues facing this generation, such as the tens of thousands of unfortunate victims of the 7.5-magnitude Turkey-Syria earthquake, the hundreds of thousands of people who already perished in the Ukraine war, casualties caused by the global catastrophes linked to climate change, millions more worldwide from the deadly coronavirus, the threat of nuclear devastation, and the political and economic tension between China and the United States.
10 million Filipino migrants thrive and endure challenges amid the backdrop of chaos.
It is unimaginable how millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) feel about and fear such hostile environments where they are today, away from their families and those especially deployed in the hearts of troublesome locations. Yet, the 10 million Filipino migrants thrive and endure challenges amid such chaotic places. No wonder why they are heralded as heroes in their own ways. This publication, named Dahil Sa ‘Yo or Dahilsayo (DSY), is one of the many instruments, albeit media, to celebrate this heroism.
Reminiscence
Fifteen years ago, DSY saw its last of only four printed issues released in Jakarta, Indonesia. At the time, it sought to at the very least create a shared conscience among Filipinos working and living in Indonesia, far from the problems that have plagued Filipinos living abroad for decades. There were then about 5,000 white-collar Filipinos living in Indonesia.
This does not consider the countless business people and low-wage laborers who traveled by sea into and out of Indonesia's northern regions, notably Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Irian Jaya.
Although in their seemingly small number compared to the whole population of Indonesia, for decades, these Filipinos had contributed, no matter how modest, to shaping Indonesian trade, economy, culture, education, and even politics. These workers and professionals were in sensitive and influential positions in the Indonesian industry, government, multinational companies, large local firms, and business ventures. They served as agricultural workers, fishermen, traders, accountants, finance directors and managers, civil engineers, teachers, education executives, and entrepreneurs. Undoubtedly, these our countrymen had a valuable impact on Indonesian society. DSY attempted to weave what these splintered Filipinos represented, one that did not represent a truly common identity.
Click and drag to see any full photo
Valid Concern
Despite the family-oriented culture the Filipinos have been exposed to in the Philippines, once we migrate overseas, there is this tendency to do our own thing. Seemingly, there are not enough reasons to care about what other Filipinos are involved in whatsoever. Though it is an exaggeration, we usually play sports or go out for some recreation with other Filipino friends. One may say that it is offensive, even irrational, to raise this issue at all. So what is wrong with merely being indifferent about it? The truth is it pays to leave little room for the "Kami-Kami" or "Kanya-Kanya" mentality.
Apart from addressing the ugly side of regionalism, a trait typical of Asian cultures, there is the challenge of warding off the bad image hurled against our country, the Philippines. A true-blue full-blooded Filipino would know the reasons why. (Enumerating these reasons here is a space waster.)
Relatives and friends back home in the Philippines join the government's chorus of admiration for Filipinos who work abroad. Despite the moral and sociological consequences associated with most overseas migration, as inferred from research conducted in Manila and abroad, there are valid reasons to praise OFWs and migratory professionals. But the subtle factionalism among Filipino communities abroad is frequently not discussed. Regrettably, this may have undermined national pride and a feeling of identity for the people, whether as a result of job-related worries or just the nature of abroad employment, where surviving in a hostile environment is essential. Therefore, there must be ways to let the world know our real heart, our genuine character as a people—to let others know that we are genuinely proud to be called Filipino.
(Click here to continue with the article.)
DSY Editorial Board
Editor-in-Chief:
Dr. Utanes Godofredo Cristobal, DBA
Managing Director:
Jovan Medrano
Marketing Director:
Marylen Ramos-Velasco
Relationship Director:
Vice Admiral Alexander S. Lopez
AFP (Retired)
Editors:
Jovan Medrano
Marylen Ramos-Velasco
Lailah Cheng
Contributors:
Avegail Pham
Claudene Villareal
Christine Ivy Narayan Pillai
Janet Belarmino Forney
Lyn P. Dolor
Rado Gatchalian
Rodolfo Gealogo Celeste
Tuloy Parin
By Avegail Pham
https://www.facebook.com/phamavhie
(For literal English translation, click here)
Marami nang pagsubok ang nagdaan
Sa buhay natin ilang beses na bang tayo ay nasubukan?
Ilang beses ka na bang sumuko?
Ilang beses ka na bang nabigo?
Ilang beses pa ang kaya mong pagbabago?
O baka naman unti unti ka nang sumusuko
Pero teka pakinggan mo muna ako.
Lahat tayo ay may kanya kanyang kwento.
Lahat tayo may tinatagong kurot sa puso
Minsan, sa mga ngiti ay tinatago
Madalas, di mapigilang ang luha ay tumulo
Pero maniwala ka ang mundo ay hindi hihinto
Sa kabiguang nararanasan mo
Iikot ito mapagod ka man sa pagtakbo
Meron tayong mga gusto na para bang ipinagkakait sa puso
Pero baka naman hindi ito dahil "hindi para sayo"
Baka naman hinahanda ka lang na maging karapat dapat para dito
Hinahanda ka lang maging totoo sa sarili mo.
Kaya tuloy parin...
Wag kang matatakot na ang isip at puso ay sundin
Tuloy parin...
Hindi man maniwala ang lahat na iyong kakayanin
Tuloy parin...
kasama mo ang Diyos at ang dapat mo lang gawin ay manalangin.
Sa bawat bakit ay may dahil
Di mo kailangang matakot na baka ay may pumigil
Puso mo ang kailangan mong sundin at hindi ito marahil.
Yan ang sigurado at ito ay dahil...
Sabi nga ni Lord:
The pain will end
The tears will stop
The doors will open
A season of miracles and and blessings are on the horizon.
Tuloy parin malay mo bukas
dalangin mo na ang dinggin.
Leadership
Marylen Ramos-Velasco
(Singapore-Based)
How can we become
better leaders?
(First published in ctsolutionsglobal.com, November 2, 2022)
Leaders are highly responsible for their team's performance and engagement in the workplace. As we deal with different types of people every day, managing people can become a challenge. But to become a better leader, we must be aware of our own people: how they behave, work, and engage.
I was invited by an organization to speak about how to become a better people manager. Part of their request was to cover how to handle teams, set goals, and give recognition to employees. While thinking about it, I thought of checking the definition of management, which is the process of dealing with or controlling things or people. While to lead is to cause a person to go with one by holding them by the hands while moving forward.
It took me quite a while to think about it and have the courage to tell them with only 90 minutes of time. I believed leadership principles would be more helpful and would likely satisfy the rest of their expectations. So, I focused on mainly delivering based on the session on How Can You Level Up As An HR Leader in 5 Ways adding in the context according to our conversation.
I started my talk with why I prefer to hold hands while moving forward rather than control people. As we lead, we have to adapt to the different personalities, communication styles, and situations that we will face and build trust with several people within our journey.
Five (5) Principles That Make Us Better Leaders:
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Adaptability and ability to manage change. You can find more information on this in our earlier article. However, I wanted to add this comment from a recent interview with Mohammad Ali Malik about how interesting it is that people resist change, and yet we all know that change is constant. In our lives, we go through changes as we grow up and move on to different activities/journeys in our lives.
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Continuous learning is key in order for us to manage change, and expectations and be able to lead our team confidently. As Roy T. Bennett says, “There is no more profitable investment than investing in yourself. It is the best investment you can make to improve yourself to be the best version of yourself and lets you be able to best serve those around you best”.
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Empowerment and employee engagement, as a leader, our main purpose is to create more leaders within our team. For us to have balance, we must delegate work and distribute it accordingly.
Entrepreneurship
Jesus Jovan Medrano
(Malaysia-Based)
9 things to remember before you start a business
(First published in jovanmedrano.com, April 24, 2022)
All businesses start as someone's dream. For me, it's really not about the money, it is about taking control of my life to fulfil my dream.
And with more and more people starting their own businesses each year and with the amazing technological advances offering unprecedented access to information, talent, materials, and products, there has never been a better time to start your own business. At the same time, there has also never been more competition.
Starting a business and being your own boss can be as challenging as it is rewarding. There are so many things that you will have to think about - from financing the initial setup costs to marketing strategies and everything in between. So equip yourself with as much knowledge as possible on the challenges you may face and the options available before you start.
So let me share with you what are the 9 things that you should remember before you start your business:
I. Develop Your Idea
Now you have that idea and that inkling to start a business. Let's get something straight first, business is definitely hard work - well, at least for the first few years until it flies off. Imagine from being an employee with one role, business owners often take on multiple responsibilities.
From producing a product or performing a service to carrying out all the admin work and as well as going out and selling your idea. So although you may no longer have a boss to answer to, which sounds very enticing to a lot of people... your working hours may be much longer compared to before.
So at this point it's important to really let your idea develop and consider your options well.
There's really no right or wrong here but it's good to be prepared and to know yourself better as well.
II. Self-Assess First
"Why you?" - Why does this specific business have to be started by you?
Answering this question is a great place to start in assessing yourself. Being your own boss requires a wide range of abilities. And a lot of these you'll definitely need at the start.
Take time to identify the transferable talents that you now have plus the other skills that you would like to develop that would be useful for the business.
Financial Literacy
Claudine Villareal
(Philippine-Based)
Are you set-up for financial success for 2023?
Let me ask: "Did you hit your personal financial goal in 2022?"
Let me ask: "Did you hit your personal financial goal in 2022?"
The majority of the time, the end of the year is also the ideal time to reflect. Remember how the past few months went by? The good news is that we can easily evaluate our full year's spending now that we have cell phones. One of the most common goals people set is a financial one, and if you don’t have one, it would probably also reflect in your bank account. So what was the financial objective you set for 2022? Try to remember it, please. How are you coping with it?
When I perform financial planning as a financial advisor, I always start by asking them the same question. We determine their financial objectives and categorize them as short-, medium-, and long-term objectives. People frequently indicate a specific amount or item they hope to obtain in their lifetime. I then help them lay it out so that they have a clear path to follow.
It's not what you're probably thinking, but after doing financial planning for more than ten years, I've found that people who give up on their financial goals in the middle share a common trait. Not everyone will carry out the plan they helped them create, regardless of their income. It is having a shaky financial foundation. The question "What is a financial foundation?" is now open to you. A financial foundation is made up of two things, your emergency fund, and your insurance.
Just like the foundation of your home, you want to build it solidly. The firmer the foundation, the higher the building you can construct. The same applies to your finances; you need to develop a sturdy foundation. Without it, you'll find it difficult to seize a good financial chance or to take a risk because you'll always be financially insecure.
An emergency fund is a must for financial success
Before the pandemic, we advised our clients to save aside 3-6 months' worth of expenses as a reserve fund, but this advice has changed in the wake of COVID-19.
Celebrate your event with with a groundbreaking keynote experience! Introducing Janet Belarmino Forney, one of the world's most accomplished explorers and a trailblazer in the climbing community. On May 16th, 2007, Janet made history as one of the first women in the world to traverse Mt. Everest -climbing from Chinese ABC camp to the summit of Everest and back down to Nepal - a feat that remains unbroken to this day. Together with her husband, Todd Forney, a sailor who circumnavigated the world without an engine, they are embarking on a journey to sail the world's oceans and produce video and audio interviews with inspiring individuals.
Their mission is to empower people with their experiences and real-life stories, helping them see the beauty in uncertainty and hardship so they can grow their businesses, stay focused on their vision, and discover their potential for living an extraordinary life. You can learn more about their mission at http://explorerspod.com/.
Bring Janet and Todd to your schools, youth groups, companies, rotary clubs, gyms, outdoor clubs, and churches in person or virtually, and let their stories of climbing mountains, sailing the world, and overcoming adversity leave a lasting impact on your audience. Whether in person or online, Janet's historic accomplishment as one of the first women in the world to traverse Mt. Everest is a testament to the strength, courage, and determination of women everywhere.
So don't wait! Connect with Janet and Todd Forney today by sending them a private message or email: explorerspod.com@gmail.com. Empower your community and celebrate Women's Month with a powerful keynote experience that highlights the achievements of trailblazing women like Janet Belarmino Forney.
Make your event a celebration of strength, courage, and determination.
Christine Ivy and Venky:
Classmates at AIM
Christine Ivy with her loved ones and new family in India
Wedding in the Philippines
Christine Ivy's team at SM Philippines
Unique Filipino Dish
Sinigang is one of the favorite dishes by Filipinos due to its sour and savory taste. Its meat can be fish, pork or beef. Tamarind is often used to make its soup sour, and you can easily have it in sachets from sari-sari stores or supermarket. In Indonesia, our fellow Filipinos use lemon in place of fresh or in sachet tamarind. It's still a win-win natural taste of sinigang.
Click photo
to magnify
your appetite.
Photo by Lyn P. Dolor
Dish cooked by Lyn P. Dolor
WhatsApp No: +6221 81510345184
Disclaimer
News, articles, and comments in this publication do not represent the opinions and views of the Philippine government, its embassies and consulates around the world, leaders and members of any interest groups, or the editorial staff of this publication, with the exception of the incumbent Chief Editor.
Any mistakes or derogatory statements herein, if any, are the sole responsibility of Dahil Sa'Yo's Chief Editor.
Fulfilling Career, Loving Family, Traveling, Mixed Cultures
By Christine Ivy Narayan Pillai
I was born in Tacloban City, Leyte. My mom is a Waray. My dad is an Antiqueno. So our family also shifted from one place to another. We moved to Iloilo in April 1992 from Tacloban City to be closer to my Dad’s family. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Management of Applied Chemistry from the Ateneo de Manila University. I have 2 siblings. One is based in New Zealand where she married a Kiwi. One is based in the Philippines, a seaman.
1. DSY: Can you tell us briefly about your life as a professional, your career, your hobbies, and other personal information you are willing to share?
I am a Filipino living in Singapore. I am married to an Indian, Venky. I love to travel, and experience new cultures. I share this passion with my husband and my son. I’ve had a fulfilling career. I am a Business Transformation Executive with over 13 years of experience across multiple functions with expertise on driving operational excellence, efficiency, business continuity and resilience. I have lived and worked in the Philippines, Japan and Korea.
Before my shift to Singapore, I was the head of the Operations Planning and Control Department of SM Supermalls, one of Southeast Asia’s biggest commercial real estate conglomerate, spearheading new initiatives to grow the financial value of the business. Although work has been a big part of my life, the pandemic has taught me to slow down and look after my health. Wellness is now a top priority in our day-to-day lives as a family. We have made lifestyle changes, trying to eat healthy, making time for walks and practicing mindfulness. On my spare time, I love visiting museums and galleries. I have also recently discovered I am passionate about sustainable living, photography, and local pinoy products.
2. Can you relate to us how you got from the Philippines to the current country you live and work in?
My husband, who was also my batchmate and classmate in AIM for MBA, shifted to Singapore from the Philippines in the 4th Quarter of 2019. It was a lateral shift from the same company in the Philippines.
I wasn’t able to shift immediately together with my husband. As I was reporting to the SM Supermalls President at that time, I stayed back to ensure that I properly turnover my team and also my tasks.Butthen the pandemic happened.Itwas actually difficultto enter Singapore from the Philippines in year 2020. At that time, there was a cap on the number of persons allowed to enter Singapore. And you need to get approved. My application for entry was rejected multiple times, until eventually I was able to enter Singapore in December of 2020.
3. What motivated you to live and work in your current country?
Shifting to Singapore was a family decision. With the move, it would give me the leeway to focus on planning for the family with financial freedom as one of our goals. We are at that point in our life where planning for retirement is important to us, as well as building a nest egg for our son’s future.
In addition to the financial independence it would afford us, we would also get exposed to a different standard of living given that Singapore is a first world country. That would mean reliable public transportation, less traffic, low crime rate and excellent urban planning. We have accessible nature parks which are just a few minutes away.
Also, as I mentioned earlier, I am married to a foreigner. After studying his MBA in AIM, my husband stayed in the Philippines for 8 years leaving his family and friends behind in India. Of course, it was difficult on his part. With distance, travel time, and increasing plane fares, it was not realistic to travel frequently to India. And when the opportunity for Singapore came up, it was a strategic location for both of us. It was between Philippines and India. Almost equal in distance and travel time actually.
4. What challenges did you encounter in moving from the Philippines to the current country you now live and work in?
I think the first apparent challenge for me was my level of fitness. Everyone walks in Singapore. And there are designated bus stops.You can’t say “para po” and get dropped off in the middle of the street. So I was huffing, puffing and sweating all the time. In terms of career, I noticed we need a specialization and a professional credibility like CFA, PMP, and so forth here in Singapore, which wasn’t really a strict requirement in the Philippines. In addition, I arrived during the pandemic. So job opportunities were limited. And in fact, there were lay-offs during that time.
5. Could you share with us your successes and how you achieved them?
During the pandemic, I was unable to find work. But instead of getting depressed, I took that as a challenge. My husband was very supportive. And It gave me a chance to try new things. I started reading books on personal finance, estate planning and investing. I also took an Executive Certificate course in Risk Management Leadership at the Singapore Management University (SMU). And eventually earned a RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional accreditation.
Armed with this knowledge, we ventured into investing. In fact, we have just placed the down payment for our first investment in real estate. We now also have investments in stocks, bonds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) both in the Philippines and abroad. Time freedom also gave me a chance to do volunteer work. In fact, I am currently the Vice President for AIM and Global Alumni Relations for NAIMAS or the Network of AIM Alumni in Singapore.
6. What other good events in your life can you share with our mga Kababayan sa Pinas at sa buong mundo (our Fellow Countrymen in the Philippines and around the world)?
We are excited to share that with our continued pursuit of financial freedom we can now afford to send our son to a better school. And give him university opportunities abroad as well. In fact, he is now attending the Young Achievers Leadership Academy (YALA) Camp in Singapore from December 6 to 10, 2022 by the Scholastic Trust Singapore Limited (STS) and attended by 182 representatives from different countries worldwide. Having control over my time also gave me the freedom to spend more time with our son. This allowedmeto bemoreinvolvedin his schoolactivities,andbereadily availablewhen he needs me. Also, with my newfound passion for personal finance, sustainability and love for tatak pinoy products, I hope to make good use of it one of these days by putting myself out there and sharing this passion with others.
7. Any word of advice or encouragement you can give especially to Filipinos living and working abroad as well as young Filipinos wanting to work overseas?
There will be days you want to cry your heart out from missing family and friends and home. The smell of the Philippines, if there such a thing. But remember that growth can be painful. And sometimes, we just got to be strong, independent and unbreakable. Let’s take this chance to build something of ourselves, and save up for the future. I strongly believe in personal finance, in being ready for rainy days and retirement. So save up and investas much as you can while you are still young,and while you are still able.Take this also as an opportunity to discover other cultures and traditions. And also use this chance to learn from others, and upskill yourselves. That’s very important.
Poet, Leader, Patriot: Rado Gatchalian
By Lailah Cheng
I am an avid fan of Rado Gatchalian, a Filipino poet, and a modern philosopher. I am not alone. I can attest that a growing number of us Filipinos living in Australia are following Rado’s activities that commemorate Filipino ingenuity in many aspects of life. You can see him online and offline. He espouses that though you may be living overseas, you can certainly be patriotic.
The Dahilsayo Publication had a memorable interview with Rado and found an alignment of a common belief and a common purpose. Rado said that the phrase, “dahil sa iyo” in Pilipino which is “because of you” in English is very meaningful to him. As a philosopher, he is always asking questions, seeking answers to life’s purpose. Thus, the answer to the question, “What is our purpose?” is obvious in the term Dahilsayo. In his poems, writings, and talks, his purpose is always to serve others, to be of use to people, and to the community.
Rado hailed from Dagupan City, Pangasinan, located in the northwest part of the Philippine archipelago, on Lingayen Gulf. Rado studied in a small college in the province of Pangasinan and initially took up information technology. The province is one of the many tourist destinations in the Philippines. It is around 3.5 hours drive from Manila, the country’s capital.
The term, “pangasinan” is short for the Tagalog (the main Filipino dialect) term, “pang-asin-nan” which literally translates to “a place for much salt”. According to online sources, the place has drawn tourists’ curiosity due to its close to ten thousand salt beds or what the locals call “baingan” (from “banig” meaning “mat”; “baingan” meaning “where there are many mats”).
Dagupan City. Oh, I can tell you a lot about this wonderful place. Among so many things, the city is hailed as a major commercial and financial center north of Manila (Wikipedia, 2023). Online sources say that because of its renowned fish ponds mainly for breeding and farming “bangus” or milkfish. It has been called by many as the world’s “bagus” capital not only because of is consistently prolific production of milkfish but also the most milkfish in taste. Yummy!
Enough of the Filipino language drill. Back to Rado.
There is a blessing in being in another place where one can pursue much of his or her passion. That’s what Rado’s actions manifest. And I can attest to this, too, along with many others like us who see our lives' alternatives to what we used to be back in our home country. I guess this is natural to people who see their origins from afar. In Rado’s case, he is mindful that his economic condition in his younger days was not that bad considering that it motivated him to work hard.
He was a working student then, a former employee of Jollibee, the Philippines’ most popular fast-food restaurant, while he studied in that small college. Getting out of poverty was not a problem for those who are determined and acted on moving to a much better place. This principle continues to guide him until now.
At that time, Rado studied IT on a scholarship given by the accountancy department of the University of Luzon in Dagupan City. He struggled in the technical field because his interests were actually in history, literature, philosophy, and the humanities. Nonetheless, the accounting department at that university saw the potential in Rado and hoped that once he finished IT, he could help them address their computer-related issues.
He was very active in youth associations and programs while still in university. Still, under the support of that university department, Rado shifted to accountancy, finishing an associate certificate in that discipline. Then, still insatiable about what he would truly like to pursue, he was able to convince his superiors to take up a degree in Philosophy and Psychology also on scholarship. When he graduated from college, he was made acting head of another department at the same university. He was still in his early 20’s. Thus, being a department head at that youthful age is a feat that Rado and many would consider an extraordinary feat.
After a while, with a Philosophy degree, Rado wanted to go for a degree in Theology in a seminary under the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), and later become a priest. However, this plan was thwarted by his love for his then-friend and former partner. They got married at that point.
Non-relentless on his pursuit of the literary and philosophy, Rado served as the literary editor of the university’s school organ. In school, he had also been a president of the student council while being a student volunteer in the university’s community extension services or outreach programs.
Equipped with strong academic qualifications and a love for the humanities, Rado also taught Rizal courses, some of the compulsory subjects in any Philippine university curriculum, as well as other subjects under the Humanities as well as Social Sciences faculties in the university he was serving under.
Forgiveness
By Janet Belarmino Forney
Forgiveness is a multifaceted and challenging concept that requires patience, empathy, and self-reflection. It's a process that's personal to each individual and often difficult to navigate, especially when dealing with past traumas or emotional pain.
It took me a while to write this article because I didn't know what to write about forgiveness. I was lost and didn't understand the concept of forgiveness. I questioned myself about its meaning and wondered whether it meant merely moving forward, forgetting the past, or avoiding the same mistake.
My husband Todd, who has remained steadfast through all the trials and tribulations, asked me to walk down the aisle with him again.
Despite feeling the same way and admiring his strength and courage, I stared off into space and nonchalantly nodded with a foolish grin. My hurtful gesture brushed away Todd's feelings, leaving him feeling rejected and disrespected.
I regretted every moment of my action. The truth is I wanted to marry Todd again.
Deep down, I was lost, and the memories of losing our dear daughter, Amihan, a few years back, flooded my head, making it challenging to forgive myself.
It made me reflect on my shortcomings and made me feel undeserving of the love and support of my family. Every day, I wake up and tell myself that I need to do better, and be better for my family, but I find myself falling back into old habits.
I don't have a formula or a step-by-step guide to forgiveness, but I understand that it's a personal journey that requires patience and self-reflection. It's a process of letting go of anger and resentment, communicating openly and honestly about our feelings and needs, and accepting responsibility for our actions, and making amends. I hope to walk down the aisle with Todd again someday.
As women, we face our own everyday Everest to climb, oceans to cross, and paths to bereavement, grieving, happiness, and joy. We experience pain, bliss, and solace.
However, we must remember to love ourselves, our partners, and our children unconditionally, walk with them and stay true to ourselves.
In conclusion, forgiveness is a complex and challenging concept that requires empathy, understanding, and a willingness to let go of anger and resentment. While it can be difficult to find our own path to forgiveness, it is ultimately a journey worth taking for the sake of our own well-being and the well-being of those we love.
It is okay to seek support and guidance from trusted friends, family members, or professionals, to navigate the path to forgiveness and create a brighter, more positive future for ourselves and those we love.
Lulan Ka Ng Isang Pagtatangis
Sa panulat ni Rado Gatchalian
(Handog para sa mga INA at Kababaihang Pilipina bilang pagdiriwang ng International Women’s Day 2023)
Poem from the inspiration of Gat. Jose Rizal, Donya Teodora Alonso Realonda.
This poem is dedicated to the celebration of International Women’s Day 2023.
Read at the Philippine Consulate General - Sydney Office, in collaboration with Sentro Rizal Sydney.
(Click here for the literal English Translation)
Lulan ka ng isang pagtatangis
na tinago mo sa napakahabang panahon,
at bagama’t tiniis ang lahat ng pasakit
patuloy kang nagmahal sa pastulang tagtuyot;
Walang kapagurang hinarap ang kumikirot na init,
at maging ang bagyong walang pakikiramay,
hindi ka kailanman sumuko sa iyong pangarap,
para sa iyong mga anak na higit pa sa iyong buhay;
Maging ang iyong palad na nalalapnos sa gabi,
nananalanging mataimtim subalit may hikbi,
mga supling na kung sadyang nakalimot man,
may kanya-kanyang hinahabol na kayamanan.
Sa daigdig na walang pinipili, mayaman o mahirap,
ikaw ang inang ang pipiliin ay ang nasa iyong sinapupunan,
at sa pagtanda at kung wala ng lakas na maialay
ihahandog ang ngiting hindi kailanman makakalimutan.
At sa bukang-liwayway na iyong tahanan,
mga bulaklak na kasing-irog ng iyong mainit na yakap,
mga paru-parong paroo’t parito gaya ng iyong pag-ibig,
ikaw ang lahat-lahat, karamay at tanging kapiling,
isang inang kinalimutan ang matamis na pangalan
upang ang pinakamamahal ay makilala ng lipunan,
wala mang bantayog ang sa iyo’y ipinarangal,
sa iyong puso’y nananahan ang pinakadakila sa lahat.
At kung lulan mo man ang pagtatangis ngayong gabi,
bukas ng umaga sa iyong tahanang sumisikat ang araw,
maghihintay nang walang pagod o kaya’y duda,
isang ina, isang dilag, na ang ligaya’y makita kang muli.
It is good when one does business out of passion. It keeps him or her persevering no matter what, even when problems seem insurmountable.
- Luz Basagre -
Secrets of Gold in Online Business: Overcoming All Odds with Passion
By Marylen Ramos-Velasco
This article is about Luz Basagre, a living testimony of persistence in entrepreneurship that can literally pay off. This is rather an understatement, so it is proper to relate the facets of her life that I am sure can inspire many Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike. After many years of knowing and skilling, while still employing others, Luz metamorphosed into a very successful business owner who generously shares her secrets on thriving and doing so well in the e-commerce space. I hope our readers can draw strength and determination from what I will share.
Close and Personal with Luz
On the personal side, Luz and her husband met in Japan and eventually decided to get married. Though she did not want to leave her home country, Luz believes that if you are a couple, you should be together. They are now settled in Orlando, Florida, USA. She considers herself very fortunate and grateful for being married to a good man who is successful in his own right in the global career he chose to pursue. Support from family members is essential in any entrepreneurial endeavor. Luz appreciates this about her husband.
If Luz had a choice, she would not leave the Philippines to move and live in a foreign country. Though Luz generally misses Manila, the weather in Florida is like in the Philippines, a bit dry and humid, with no snow, which somehow helps to remember what it is like back home. She had to adjust to the different culture, which is frank, at times brutally, and upfront, contrary to the one we were used to, polite and patronizing other cultures. Filipino food is not scarce in this part of North America. This is another factor that helps her get used to her new way of life.
Luz is a very good singer and even plays the guitar. One may say that many Filipinos are good at both of these. As her long-time friend, I can attest that she is extraordinarily good at the former. No wonder she is very creative in whatever she puts her hands on, especially in business. Notably, like Luz, many Filipinos have joined the diaspora for various reasons. And like many Filipinos, Luz misses the Philippines partly because of the culture she was not used to initially.
Both Luz and I have come a long way. We used to knock on doors selling weird stuff like industrial products that women were not expected to sell. After such trips in the very busy and traffic-ridden streets of Manila, sweaty and sticky, we took naps on buses on the long way home. So many other crazy things we did together in our younger years. And we laughed at these unforgettable experiences that actually impacted both her life and mine. But it is she who remains to be an inspiration to me until now.
Challenges Moving to the USA
Luz’s experience was no less traumatic, especially before her trip to Florida to join her husband. As Filipinos, securing immigration clearances was not straightforward. Worse was the arrival of the coronavirus pandemic that created customs and immigration restrictions for travelers and migrants. There were so many uncertainties then. Her desperate desire to be moved with her loved one made him feel helpless and left with no option. She practically gave up and told her husband to let her stay in the Philippines and for him just to travel back and forth on occasion. She had conditioned herself to a long-distance marriage relationship. She had to beg God to intervene. Eventually, she got through, short of calling it a miracle.
Business Side of Luz
When Luz was back in the Philippines, she put up her 7-year-old import-export online business employing 9 staff. While in Florida, this business still exists in the Philippines. She uses social media for marketing her products. Her Instagram has 15,000 followers, and her Facebook account is 25,000 and growing. Therefore, she is qualified to be called an online influencer in her own right.
For Luz, running a business needs hard work. It is normal to stay up late and to lack enough sleep. As far as I can remember, Luz loves to sleep, just like me, I should say. So, enduring the lack of rest is one of the many sacrifices one must embrace if you wish your business to succeed, one of Luz’s mantras. She also needs to manage juggling house chores and family obligations.
Luz also acknowledges that her business needs much thinking to sustain its growth to higher levels. Where to get her supplies; where to deliver them; which courier to use; who can manage her shop back home; these are the challenges she faces daily; manage them. It is stressful but fulfilling.
Luz said it is good that she had established her business in the Philippines before moving overseas. However, being far from where the real action poses some difficulties, too. Nonetheless, the advantage of being America is that she could personally choose the products that she thinks are exportable. She sells clothing and apparel like shoes, bags, and jewelry. Therefore, being in America gives her a vast horizon to source her products and expand her business in the Philippines. With this advantage, she can freely choose from a wide range of brands across various prices. Luz’s business model calls for identifying branded products that are relatively low-priced. These are the ones that her target market buys.
Business Out of Passion
It is good when one does her business out of passion. It keeps you to keep persevering no matter what, even when you encounter problems that seem insurmountable. Expect a lot of pressure and stress from many sources. Luz could not imagine giving up her business. Passion drives the entrepreneur because of the satisfaction of serving people or doing something for customers. Having a definite life purpose suppresses the negative feelings and discouragements of running a business. Luz strongly ascribes to these principles.
She says, “If your business is your passion, you are always excited. I’m always excited to do life selling via Instagram and Facebook almost every day. Aside from earning money, I enjoy doing this business.”
Luz does not tire of doing almost everything herself, from invoicing, purchasing, packing, facilitating goods delivery, and others needed to consummate her business transactions. It is as though energy is replenished by doing these daily tasks. Her accountant used to advise her that she had to monitor her expenses. But she answered: “I don’t worry about that much. As far as I know, I’m earning because funds seem to grow. So, I just don’t bother.”
Unpopular Mindset About Money
A very interesting business principle that Luz practices is that she constantly imagines that she does not have money in her pocket or bank account. This motivates her to work hard. She believes that if she stays in her comfort zone, she will just relax and become lazy because, anyway, there is money available.
Luz formed this mindset immediately when she started her business in 2016. She does not look at her bank account every time. Rather, she thinks that she does not have the resources. This contradicts what old folks would say: "It’s bad luck if you say you have no money.” On the other hand, Hers is: “Think you do not have money, so you will work hard! Because you have nothing, there is good reason to flex your muscles every time.”
One needs to be empty always for you to fill that empty bucket, so to speak. You got to be hungry when you are in business. I believe this, too.