Managing our Avida unit here in Paranaque has become a surprisingly demanding task, particularly when it involves coordinating fixtures and renovations. It's not just about approving plans; it's the constant back-and-forth with contractors, sourcing materials, and ensuring everything adheres to the building's regulations. This entire property management overhead has consistently eaten up a significant chunk of my workday—I'd estimate at least 15-20% of my time is diverted to it. I'm really hoping to delegate this responsibility to a professional property manager or even a trusted assistant before we eventually make our big move to another place. The goal is to offload this entirely so I can fully focus on my primary work.

On a more personal note, we've made significant strides with Joyce's orthodontic journey. This has been a long-term plan, going back a couple of years, and we're finally seeing it come to fruition. After extensive teeth preparations, which involved several visits to the orthodontist for detailed assessments and minor procedures, she's now all set. She's scheduled to receive her expanders, braces, and retainers in stages throughout this year, starting very soon. We're all excited for her to have that confident smile.

Separately, I've been on the hunt for a high-quality AI voice text-to-speech converter for a new project. My requirements are pretty specific: it needs to sound natural, have a good range of voices, and offer flexible integration. After testing several options, Kokoro TTS really stands out. It seems to meet most of my needs, particularly its realistic intonation and ability to handle various speaking styles, which is crucial for the content I'm developing.

The early onset of the May rains this year in Metro Manila is proving to be quite disruptive. It started pouring around the first week of May, much earlier than the usual full swing of the rainy season. This is a significant concern because it's already impacting our ongoing construction and renovation projects. The constant downpours are causing delays, especially with outdoor work like concrete pouring and roofing, and also creating logistical challenges for material deliveries. We're now having to adjust timelines and work around the weather, which adds complexity and potential cost increases to these projects.

This Month's Quote

If you only move, you can definitely reach a new world. But if you stop, nothing will change.
― L from Death Note

Rental Management

Managing rentals means constant oversight...

Overseeing the Avida unit in Pasig has become an unexpectedly arduous undertaking. The coordination of necessary fixtures and renovations alone demands substantial effort. Beyond mere plan approvals, it involves a continuous dialogue with contractors, meticulous material procurement, and strict adherence to building codes. This administrative burden of property management regularly consumes a significant portion of my professional hours—a discernible 15-20% of my weekly work output. My ambition is to soon transfer this responsibility to a specialized property manager or a capable assistant, ideally before our eventual relocation. Relinquishing this task would allow for an undivided focus on my core professional responsibilities.

Joyce Braces

Braces, a temporary journey for a lifetime of smiles...

Switching to a personal update, significant progress has been made regarding Joyce's orthodontic treatment. This initiative, contemplated for some time, is now materializing. Following thorough dental preparations—a process entailing multiple consultations with the orthodontist for precise evaluations and minor interventions—she is now ready. The forthcoming stages involve the phased application of expanders, braces, and retainers over the course of this year, commencing shortly. The anticipation for her achieving a more confident smile is palpable within the family.

Kokoro TTS

Kokoro TTS, The clarity of voice, redefined...

On a separate note, my search for a superior AI voice text-to-speech converter for an upcoming endeavor has been ongoing. My criteria are rather precise: the output must possess natural vocal qualities, offer a diverse selection of voices, and allow for adaptable integration. Following trials of numerous platforms, Kokoro TTS has distinguished itself. It appears to fulfill the majority of my prerequisites, notably its authentic intonation and capacity to render various speaking styles—attributes essential for the material I am currently producing.

Raining

May rains, early start, project delays...

The premature arrival of May's precipitation in Metro Manila this year is proving considerably problematic. Beginning around the first week of the month, the rainfall commenced well in advance of the typical rainy season's peak. This early start raises substantial concern as it is already affecting our various construction and renovation endeavors. The persistent deluges are instigating delays, particularly for exterior tasks such as concrete work and roofing, while simultaneously posing logistical hurdles for material transport. Consequently, we are compelled to revise project timelines and adapt our operations to the inclement weather, thereby introducing additional complexities and potential cost escalations to these undertakings.

Minor Fixtures and Renovations

Minor fixes, major impact...

Fixture and renovations, In any endeavor, it's often the seemingly minor adjustments and routine maintenance that collectively create a profound effect. Think of it this way: consistently sharpening your skills through daily practice, fixing a small glitch in a process before it escalates, or even just regularly decluttering your workspace. Each of these individual "minor fixes" might appear insignificant on its own.However, the cumulative result is a major impact on overall efficiency, quality, and long-term success. Neglecting these small details can lead to compounded problems, increased costs, and ultimately, missed opportunities. Conversely, a proactive approach to addressing the small stuff not only prevents larger issues but also fosters continuous improvement and resilience. It's the philosophy that a stitch in time saves nine, demonstrating how seemingly insignificant efforts can dramatically shape outcomes.

This April was a month of diverse activities, blending family celebrations, cultural reflection, technological exploration, and personal growth. A simple but heartwarming birthday celebration for Nanay Noemi kicked off the month, filled with shared food and familial warmth. The K-drama "When Life Gives You Tangerines" sparked a nostalgic reflection on the challenges faced by past generations in the Philippines, highlighting the value of familial stories. Technological curiosity led to an exploration of AI-generated art in the Studio Ghibli style, showcasing the impressive advancements in AI's ability to replicate complex artistic aesthetics. Financially, the month saw the initiation of day trading on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), investing in TEL and JFC shares, with the aim of generating additional income amidst market uncertainties influenced by Trump's tariff policies. Family pride was a highlight, as Joyce received High Honors at her recognition day, a testament to her perseverance despite academic challenges. Joyce also addressed dental concerns with a checkup and preparations for braces. Finally, the month concluded with a focus on personal introspection, as the author and their family utilized the Lenten period for self-reflection and goal realignment, choosing a personal approach over traditional religious observance.

This Month's Quote

"Those who forgive themselves, and are able to accept their true nature... They are the strong ones!"
― Itachi Uchiha from Naruto

Nanay Noemis' Birthday

Another year of life...

Nanay Noemi's birthday was marked by a simple, cozy celebration at her home. During our visit, we presented her with a birthday cake we'd picked up. Complementing our contribution, a generous serving of flavorful palabok and an additional cake were already set out, making for a lovely, albeit modest, birthday meal shared together.

Kdrama When Life Gives you Tangerines

Life and born in the 50s...

While Kat and I were watching the K-drama 'When Life Gives You Tangerines,' it struck a chord with us. Even though we were born in the 80s, the show depicted scenarios and values that felt familiar, strongly reminding us of the stories our own parents shared about their younger years here in the Philippines. It really highlighted the significant challenges and sacrifices our parents' generation faced, painting a vivid picture of the difficult times they navigated.

Ghibli Art

AI generated Artwork...

A popular trend recently involves leveraging advanced AI tools to create images in the unmistakable style of Studio Ghibli. While earlier AI could perform basic style mimicry, today's generative models are far more adept at capturing the specific nuances of complex aesthetics like Ghibli's, thanks to significant technological improvements. This increased capability means the AI-generated results are not only more stylistically accurate but are also steadily improving in terms of overall image quality, detail, and artistic coherence, making the trend more prominent and the outputs more impressive.

I recently went through my photo collection, dug up several interesting pictures, and decided to experiment with an AI tool to transform them into the Studio Ghibli art style. I was curious to see how the AI would reinterpret these familiar images with that iconic, painterly animation look.

Trump Tariffs, Risk of Recession

Uncertainty...

The increasing tariffs being imposed by the United States are creating significant issues and contributing to a climate of considerable uncertainty and volatility within the global market. These tariffs, often implemented on imported goods from various countries, have the potential to disrupt established trade relationships, increase costs for businesses and consumers, and ultimately dampen economic growth. Consequently, investors are reacting cautiously, leading to fluctuations and unpredictability in stock prices and other financial instruments as they attempt to assess the potential long-term impacts.

Investing again in Stocks

Times of uncertainty are also times of opportunity...

I've started investing some capital in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) for TEL (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company) and JFC (Jollibee Foods Corporation) shares. My goal is to explore day trading as a way to generate additional income.

Joyce Recognition Day

Awards and merits...

The family celebrated a truly wonderful recognition day at St. Cyr Academy, as their daughter, Joyce, was awarded High Honors. This achievement was particularly significant because, despite facing challenges with lower scores in Filipino and Araling Panlipunan, Joyce demonstrated remarkable perseverance and dedication to excel in her other subjects. Her hard work and commitment clearly paid off, making the entire family incredibly proud of her accomplishment.

Joyce Dental Checkup

Teeth falling off..

Noticing that two of her molar teeth were becoming loose, Joyce had a timely dental appointment, which also happened to be scheduled for her regular teeth cleaning. Visiting her dentist in Parañaque, she underwent both a thorough checkup to assess the loose teeth and her routine cleaning. Additionally, the dentist advised her to begin the necessary dental preparations for the future application of braces, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term orthodontic needs.

Lenten Season

Reflection and adjustments...

While not conventionally religious, particularly during this time which doesn't carry the traditional Lenten observances for us due to our infrequent church attendance, we are intentionally using this period for personal reflection and the re-evaluation of our goals. We believe in the importance of inner examination and aligning our actions with our aspirations, finding our own meaning in this season rather than adhering strictly to religious customs.

The Infographics Show: What Are TARIFFS And Do They Work

For the last few months and recent days tariffs is being pushed by US to the entire world...

Attending Mass regularly might not be practical for us yet, as we still haven't bought a car. Given the travel constraints, we’ve decided to attend Sunday Mass at SM Sucat for now, since it’s more accessible and allows us to make the most of our trips. Hopefully, once we have our own vehicle, we can explore attending Mass at different churches.

Kats' recovery is progressing well—she’s getting more restful sleep, which has helped with her energy levels, and she’s becoming more efficient in managing daily tasks. She has also started working on minor drawing projects, which is a great sign that she’s regaining her focus and creativity. It’s reassuring to see her making steady progress.

The renovations at Santolan are moving forward as expected, though there have been minor delays due to unforeseen ground conditions and technical challenges. While these setbacks have slightly affected the timeline, the overall project remains on track. Hopefully, things will pick up in the coming weeks.

The summer heat wave has become more intense, making daily life a bit more uncomfortable. The room temperature now regularly reaches around 34–36°C, making it difficult to stay cool, especially during the afternoons. We’ve been relying on electric fans and staying hydrated, but an air-conditioning unit might be a worthwhile investment soon if the heat persists.

On another note, Hanna, my first tenant, has decided to terminate her lease and will be moving out this month. It’s a bit of a transition, but I’m considering whether to find a new tenant right away or take some time to make improvements to the space before renting it out again.

In terms of entertainment, we’ve watched two K-dramas this month: When the Stars Gossip and Welcome to Samdal-ri. Both had their charms, but personally, I enjoyed Samdal-ri more—it had a more compelling storyline and well-developed characters. It’s always nice to unwind with a good series, especially after long days.

I’ve also been reading Infinite Mage and have made it about a quarter of the way through. The story has been engaging so far, but I’ll likely pause reading for now to focus on work-related tasks. Once I have more free time, I’d love to continue and see where the story goes.

On a different note, I recently activated the Rankaru website for AdSense, and I’m hoping it gets approved soon. If all goes well, I’d like to apply for AdSense on my other websites, like PinoyPixel, as well. Monetizing these sites could provide a nice passive income stream, so fingers crossed for a smooth approval process.

This Month's Quote

You can do what you will, but you can't will what you will.
― Arthur Schopenhauer

Sunday Mass in the Mall

Weekend habits...

Attending Mass regularly may not be feasible for us just yet, as we haven’t purchased a car. Due to travel limitations, we’ve chosen to attend Sunday Mass at SM Sucat for now, as it’s more convenient and helps us maximize our trips. Hopefully, once we have our own vehicle, we can explore attending Mass at different churches.

My Wifes' Recovery

Health progress...

Kats is recovering well—she’s sleeping better, which has noticeably improved her energy and productivity in daily tasks. She’s also begun working on small drawing projects, a promising sign that her focus and creativity are returning. It’s encouraging to see her steadily improving.

Renovations Progress in Santolan

House fixtures and changes...

The renovations at Santolan are progressing as planned, despite minor delays caused by unexpected ground conditions and technical challenges. Although these setbacks have slightly impacted the schedule, the project remains on course. Hopefully, progress will accelerate in the coming weeks.

Manila Extensive Heat

Summer heat...

On a different note, Hanna, my first tenant, has decided to end her lease and will be moving out this month. It’s a bit of an adjustment, and I’m weighing whether to find a new tenant immediately or take some time to make improvements before renting the space out again.

Another Tenant is Leaving this Month

Another turn over of tenant...

The summer heat has worsened, making daily life increasingly uncomfortable. Indoor temperatures now reach 34–36°C, especially during the afternoons. While fans and hydration help, sustained heat will likely require air conditioning.

Kdrama When Stars Gossip

Disappointing series, terribe pacing...

"When Stars Gossip" plummeted from its promising premise of celebrity romance and industry scandal into a black hole of mediocrity. The supposed scandalous gossip proved to be tepid whispers, the chemistry between the leads was non-existent, and the plot relied on tired tropes and predictable twists. The secondary characters were mere caricatures, the pacing dragged with filler scenes, and the direction lacked any spark. Instead of a captivating celestial drama, viewers were left with a forgettable, lackluster experience, making this a definite skip for those seeking genuine entertainment.

Kdrama Samdal-Ri

Light hearted series...

"Welcome to Samdal-ri" is a warm hug of a drama. Its gentle pace, stunning Jeju Island scenery, and deeply relatable characters create a comforting and uplifting viewing experience. The story of childhood friends finding their way back to each other and their roots is beautifully told, filled with heartfelt moments, genuine humor, and a powerful message of healing and second chances. A truly heartwarming slice-of-life gem.

Infinite Mage Manwha

Isekai world building...

"Infinite Mage" centers on a protagonist who, possessing exceptional magical talent, navigates a world of magic academies and complex power dynamics. The story follows his journey as he develops his abilities, encounters various challenges, and aims to achieve mastery over magic. Essentially, it's a tale of a mage's rise to power.

Google Ads

Google adverts...

Google ads for rankaru, kosilog and pinoypixel has been approved. The approval of the google ads is much faster this time around.

Upon returning to Manila, I needed to finalize the occupancy of one of our condo units. Finding a tenant was relatively quick due to the unit's prime location, as well as its ideal size and pricing for people working or studying near NAIA. Prioritizing housing renovations in Santolan was also on my list. Additionally, I’ve been exploring different digital banks to optimize interest returns. Another highlight was Joyce's foundation day at school, which involved weeks of practice to prepare for their performance. I also enjoyed watching a video about simplifying life or, at the very least, managing wants within a budget.

This Month's Quote

Comfort is the enemy of progress.
― Rimuru Tempest

Avida Ending Tenant Contracts

Personally doing the rental unit managements...

One of my tenants needed to terminate their lease early, so I had to find a replacement. It took about one week to secure a new tenant for the room. I interviewed approximately 6 to 8 potential tenants, of which 3 confirmed their interest and were willing to make the down payment. I then carried out the usual transition process, including settling the bills and handling the cleaning.

The new tenant is very considerate and easy to communicate with. I hope she enjoys the place and decides to stay for several years. At the very least, I’m hoping she remains for a minimum of two years.

Pasig House Renovations

Fixtures and renovations...

Renovating the house in Pasig has been quite an expensive venture, requiring significant investment in both time and resources. From structural repairs to interior improvements, each step has demanded meticulous planning and careful budgeting. Despite the costs, the renovations are shaping the house into a comfortable and functional space. Our future plan is to either move into the Pasig property ourselves, making it our permanent residence, or lease it out as a source of steady rental income. Either way, we’re hopeful that the effort and expense we’ve put into the renovation will prove to be worthwhile in the long run.

Break and Reflection

2025 is the year for refocusing...

I am taking a much-needed break for a few months to recharge and prioritize my well-being. During this time, I plan to focus on improving my physical and mental health by adopting healthier habits. This includes staying consistent with exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and setting aside time for mindfulness and relaxation. The break also gives me an opportunity to reflect on my goals, reset my priorities, and ensure that I’m building a sustainable lifestyle moving forward. It's a chance to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.

St Cyr Foundation Day

Annual school celebration...

My daughter and I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Foundation Day celebration together. It was a memorable experience, as we enjoyed watching the lively performances, participating in the activities, and soaking in the festive atmosphere. Sharing these moments with her made the event even more special, creating memories that we’ll cherish for years to come.

I had the opportunity to attend St. Cyr Academy’s 53rd Foundation Day, and it was such a lively celebration. The energy of the event was palpable, with vibrant cultural performances, traditional dances, and engaging activities bringing everyone together. I watched as students showcased their creativity in colorful patriotic and traditional attire, while the dynamic dragon dance added an exciting touch. The stage was beautifully decorated with banners, and the entire atmosphere was filled with unity and joy. Being there truly allowed me to witness the rich traditions and spirited community of the school.

The school showcases a vibrant school celebration filled with energy and joy. Students are captured in the middle of lively performances, dressed in colorful costumes and uniforms that reflect their team spirit. The central fisheye photo adds a dynamic perspective, highlighting a large crowd gathered in a green school courtyard, creating an atmosphere of unity and excitement. This moment beautifully encapsulates the enthusiasm, creativity, and camaraderie of the event.

Beer and Chicaron

It has been a while...

It's been ages since I last had San Miguel with chicharon. I can still remember that perfect combo—the crisp, refreshing beer cutting through the salty crunch of the chicharon. It’s one of those simple pleasures that just hits the spot, especially after a long day or during a chill hangout. I should probably grab some soon—feels like I’m overdue for a little treat like that!

Papa in Singapore

Consolidated last months photo with Papa in SG...

My dad and I recently took a trip to Singapore, and it was such a memorable experience. From the moment we landed, we were eager to explore everything the city had to offer. One of our first stops was the iconic Merlion Park, where we took in the amazing views of the Marina Bay skyline. We wandered through vibrant temples, explored Dhoby Ghaut, and marveled at the stunning Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. Of course, we couldn’t miss out on the delicious food—satay at Satay by the Bay was definitely a highlight. It felt great spending quality time together while discovering such a dynamic and beautiful city.

One of the memorable trips I took with my dad—it was such a wonderful experience spending time together. I cherish moments like these, and I truly hope we can embark on more adventures like this in the future.

Digital Banks

Parking some emergency funds or ongoing project funds in Digital banks...

I've been exploring digital banks recently, and I’ve had a pretty positive experience using Maya, UNO Digital Bank, and SeaBank. Maya stands out with its intuitive app and competitive interest rates, which make saving feel rewarding. UNO Bank has been a solid choice too, offering flexible features and options that cater to my needs. Meanwhile, SeaBank’s straightforward interface and dependable savings options have been great for daily transactions and earning interest. All in all, these digital banks have been a great addition to how I manage my finances efficiently.

The Cheaper Your Pleasures, The Richer You’ll Be | Minimalist Philosophy

Managing expectation and life choices...

The video titled “The Cheaper Your Pleasures, The Richer You’ll Be | Minimalist Philosophy” dives into the philosophical teachings of Epicurus and other notable philosophers regarding the essence of happiness and wealth. Epicurus argues that true happiness does not stem from material excess, luxurious experiences, or societal power; rather, it arises from a simple life enriched by meaningful relationships and modest pleasures. The video explores the concept of minimalism across various disciplines, including music, art, and lifestyle choices, advocating for a minimalist approach to well-being that prioritizes cheap and accessible pleasures over costly indulgences.

The discussion highlights the pitfalls of excessive work and material accumulation, showing how these pursuits often lead to stress, isolation, and health issues. Philosophers like Zhuangzi and Thoreau further underscore the importance of valuing simple experiences and contentment over societal standards of success. The video posits that true wealth lies in the ability to find joy in inexpensive pleasures, such as nature, literature, and personal connections, arguing that contentment is the ultimate form of prosperity. By embracing minimalism, individuals can cultivate a fulfilling life without the burdens of excessive desires and materialism.

Highlights
🌿 Epicurus on Happiness: Epicurus believed that happiness is achieved through simplicity and meaningful relationships, not material wealth.
🏠 The Value of Minimalism: The video explores minimalism as a lifestyle choice, emphasizing its importance across art, music, and personal well-being.
⏳ Work-Life Balance: Overworking can lead to health issues and stress, detracting from overall happiness and well-being.
📚 Thoreau’s Simple Life: Henry David Thoreau’s minimalist lifestyle at Walden Pond illustrates the richness found in simple experiences and nature.
📖 Intellectual Pleasures: Engaging with literature and intellectual pursuits is highlighted as a cost-effective source of joy.
🧘‍♂️ Static vs. Moving Pleasures: Epicurus differentiated between static pleasures (contentment) and moving pleasures (active pursuits), with a focus on achieving the former for lasting happiness.
🌱 Cultivating Cheap Pleasures: The video encourages viewers to embrace affordable joys in life, suggesting that the richest person is the one content with what they have.

Key Insights
🌟 Epicurus’ Philosophy on Wealth: Epicurus asserted that the relentless pursuit of material wealth leads to insatiable desires and unhappiness. Instead, he championed a life of moderation, where true wealth is measured by contentment rather than possessions. This perspective invites individuals to reassess their values and seek fulfillment in simpler, more accessible pleasures.
🏞️ The Role of Nature and Simplicity: Philosophers like Thoreau emphasized the beauty and richness found in nature and simple living. By immersing ourselves in the natural world and reducing our reliance on material possessions, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for life’s everyday moments, ultimately leading to greater happiness.
💼 The Cost of Overwork: The video references studies that link excessive working hours with increased health risks, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance. The pursuit of wealth through overwork often comes at the expense of both physical health and personal happiness, suggesting that a reevaluation of priorities is necessary for long-term well-being.
📖 Intellectual Engagement as a Source of Joy: Engaging in intellectual pursuits, such as reading and meditation, provides affordable avenues for pleasure. Philosophers like Schopenhauer argued that these pleasures are deeper and more rewarding than material gains, highlighting the value of nurturing the mind and spirit.
🧘 Static Pleasures for Contentment: Epicurus’ distinction between static and moving pleasures underscores the importance of seeking contentment through the absence of discomfort rather than through active pursuit of desires. This insight encourages individuals to focus on achieving peace of mind, which is a more sustainable path to happiness.
💰 Redefining Richness: The video challenges conventional definitions of wealth, proposing that true richness comes from being satisfied with what we have rather than constantly striving for more. This perspective fosters a mindset of gratitude and appreciation for life’s simple joys.
🌼 Embracing Minimalism: Ultimately, the video advocates for a minimalist approach to life, where individuals intentionally choose to focus on affordable pleasures that bring genuine joy. By decluttering both physically and mentally, people can free themselves from the burdens of excessive desires, leading to a more fulfilling and enriched existence.

The discussion presented in the video serves as a profound reminder that happiness and true wealth are often found in simplicity and the appreciation of life’s inexpensive pleasures. By embracing minimalism, we can navigate modern life with a renewed sense of purpose, joy, and contentment, aligning more closely with the philosophical teachings of Epicurus and other great thinkers.

The new year brings new hopes, plans, and opportunities for the future. I've been busy packing a lot of stuff as I prepare to leave Singapore for good by the end of this month. Recently, we celebrated Chinese New Year, and this week marks my last chance to join the festivities at NCS. I've also tendered my resignation and will be returning to the Philippines permanently for personal reasons.

During this period, I've been engrossed in reading The Iron-Blooded Sword Hound. It all started with a YouTube recap of the manhwa, and I eventually pursued reading the web novel. Additionally, my father visited Singapore to spend some time with me before my departure.

As I look forward to the new chapter in the Philippines, I feel a mix of emotions—nostalgia for the memories made in Singapore and excitement for the new experiences that await.

This Month's Quote

One Today is worth Two Tomorrows
― Benjamin Franklin

New Year Celebration

The new year firework just outside the backyard...

After enjoying our Media Noche at home, Joyce and I decided to head out and check out the New Year fireworks. The night sky was filled with vibrant colors and dazzling displays, making it a truly magical experience. Meanwhile, Kat chose to stay in and watch TV, preferring to enjoy the festivities from the comfort of home. It was a perfect blend of celebration and relaxation, and we all welcomed the new year in our own special ways.

Shipments with LBC

Last set of packages to the Philippines...

These two extra large and one large size balikbayan boxes are ready to be shipped to Manila. It's been two years since my last shipment, which coincided with my family's return to the Philippines and my need to shift houses. Packing these boxes has been quite a task, but it's also a reminder of the journey we've been on.

The boxes are filled with items that hold sentimental value, as well as essentials that will make life a bit easier back home. From clothes and shoes to household items and personal mementos, each box represents a part of our story. Preparing for this shipment has made me reflect on the past two years and the adjustments we've made as a family.

Sending these balikbayan boxes not only brings a sense of closure to this chapter but also marks the beginning of a new one. It's a bittersweet feeling, knowing that we are leaving behind a place that has been our home, yet looking forward to reuniting with loved ones and starting fresh in the Philippines.

Chinese New Year Celebration

The lunar new year is a big feast for the Singaporean Chinese communities...

Singapore Chinese New Year is a vibrant celebration, filled with colorful decorations and lively performances. Highlights include the Chinatown Light-Up, River Hongbao, and traditional lion and dragon dances. It's a time of unity, joy, and cultural festivities for everyone to enjoy.

Resignation

My last project team before leaving NCS...

It has been a tough decision, but ultimately a decisive one. The plan to return to the Philippines has been in place since 2020, but we were stuck in Singapore due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The transition back to the Philippines was quite sudden, prompted by Kat's illness. Despite the challenges, we are ready to embrace this new chapter and face whatever comes our way.

Iron-Blooded Sword Hound

Time traveling genre, with a revenge plot against the demons...

Reference material for reading The return of the iron blood sword hound light novel.

Papa Singapore

Trip in SG before I go back to Philippines for good...

Papas' quick Singapore trip right before permanently flying back to Philippines.

Reflecting on the year 2024, I would say it was another blessed year as my family continued to adjust to life in Manila. Kat has been steadily recovering, and Jace is finding ways to cope with the changes. Joyce is making efforts to catch up and adapt as well. Along the way, we made a few investments and faced some struggles, but overall, we remained positive and hopeful. We are confident that we can overcome any challenges and move forward together into the new year. As we prepare for 2025, we are grateful for the journey we've shared and look forward to supporting each other in the coming year.

This month, I got my Insta360 Flow during a sale period. I was initially torn between getting a 360 camera or a gimbal, but I felt that my iPhone camera was decent enough and would remain my main camera device. After using the gimbal for a while, I found it to be a bit different than what I had originally expected.

On another note, we've recently discovered a new budget-friendly ramen spot called Kyukyu 99 Ramen. Their P99 ramen seems like a loss leader—priced so low that it's likely they aren't making much profit from it. Nevertheless, it's delicious and has quickly become our go-to choice for a satisfying and affordable meal.

Recently, I've been watching US-based streamers and co-YouTubers such as Michael Reeves and LilyPichu. Both have been incredibly entertaining, and their unique quirks make their content a joy to watch. This month, I also encountered a car accident one morning along Eunos Road. Fortunately, it wasn't blocking the way, but it definitely slowed down some vehicles.

December is the month of Christmas, which brings a lot of fun and excitement for both kids and adults. The festive season is filled with joy, decorations, and various activities that everyone can enjoy.

I also came across an insightful video about consistency, which I found very inspiring. I decided to post it as a reminder for future reference.

This Month's Quote

Depression is the inability to construct a future.
― Rollo May, “Love and Will”

Insta360 Flow Pro

Small and compact iphone gimbal...

This is my first digital gimbal, the last gimbal I used was the one with the counter weight on it.

Kyukyu Ramen 99

On of the best valued ramen for P99...

Absolutely! While it may not be the best ramen out there, Kyukyu99ramen offers incredible value with their 99 pesos ramen bowl. It's impressive how they manage to serve such a satisfying meal at that price point. It's a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a warm and tasty bowl of ramen without breaking the bank. Plus, discovering these budget-friendly spots adds a bit of adventure to the dining experience!

Kat and I recently visited one of the most affordable ramen shops in Manila. This cozy little spot offers delicious ramen at an unbeatable price, making it a great find for ramen lovers on a budget. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Sharing this experience with Kat made it even more special, and we couldn’t help but appreciate the rich flavors and generous portions they served. If you’re ever in Manila and looking for a budget-friendly ramen spot, this place is definitely worth a visit.

Doctors' Rebirth - Manwha

A medical themed reincarnation Isekai...

This reminds me of fushigi yuugi but with a medical themed Webtoon: Doctors Rebirth. There are a handful of differences with the typical Isekai and the plot is definitely have gaps, but overall it was a chill and wonderful reads. The gaps are forgivable depending on ones taste.

Car Accident

Either drunk driving or the driver is very sleepy...

On my way to the office, I came across an accident that happened early this morning. Hopefully, no one was hurt and there were no casualties.

Christmas

Sharing, Christmas Party, Visiting and malls this christmas...

We have prepared sweets for our Christmas gift sharing with the Pascual family.

Joyce school christmas party.

NCS Customs Year End Celebration and Christmas party.

This would be my last Christmas party here in this company and Singapore.

Christmas celebration in Pascual Compound.

Siting around the street allowing Jace to take break.

In the middle of the crowed of people walking in BGC.

Shot while strolling around BGC.

Year End

Spent an amazing Christmas and New Year with Family...

We have a decision to finally go back to the Philippines. We are hopeful on the year 2025 with family.

Lilypichu Youtuber

Talented gamer, musician, voice actress; witty, playful, versatile online personality...

Lilypichu https://www.youtube.com/@LilyPichu

Michael Reeves Youtuber

Filipino-American YouTuber; tech-comedy videos, robotics, coding, humorous personality...

Michael Reeves https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelReeves

Mindshift: What Happens When You Stay Consistent For 30 Days?

Success isn't always about greatness. It's about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come...

What Happens When You Stay Consistent For 30 Days? and How to become consistent. Uploading these mindshift videos as a constant reminder to be consistent, set a routine and schedule.