America, here I come

How can a single email which woke you up, ended up not letting you sleep at all.

It was not a typical morning when I woke up with message on Instagram coming from a friend stating that she was not accepted in the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellows Program. I was saddened by her message and at the same time I was also worried that I might not have been accepted, too.

I opened my email nervously. Upon reading, I was greatly surprised to find out that I got in!

Photo screen grabbed from US Mission
to ASEAN website. Credit goes to the owner.

The email which I received informing me of my acceptance
 in the said exchange program.

HOW IT ALL STARTED. I read about young legislators having opportunities for exchange programs abroad on YL Chronicles, the official publication of the NMYL. Copies of the said magazine were given to each delegate during the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) Provincial and Regional Assembly and Re-organization for Region I held at Vigan City on September 8-9, 2016. 

My co-fellow from the Young Legislators for Good Governance of the Jesse Robredo Foundation and International Republican Institute Councilor Sheina Marie Onrubia from Tabaco City, Albay wrote an article narrating her experience in the said exchange program (see the article below). Upon reading, I thought that for a newly-elected municipal official like me such opportunity will be very helpful. 

The following day I met the NMYL Program Director Ms. Fritzie Aguado at the hotel cafe during breakfast. At first I didn't have the courage to ask Ms. Fritzie about exchange programs but my desire to be able to learn more fuelled me to asked her. I really appreciated her warm response and smile. She said that we will be emailed on various programs by the NMYL even in the Facebook page of the said organization.  

Councilor Sheina Marie Onrubia's article on YL Chronicles (Volume 6)
narrating her experience in Washington DC
during her YSEALI PYF Exchange Program in 2015.

ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The online form was long and tedious, so many questions needed meticulous answers. I thought that the application form was already a test of someone's determination in pursuing the program.  Moreover, it really checks one's advocacies and passion in his or her chosen track such as the economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, legislative process and governance or civic  engagement, and civil society or NGO development. Due diligence was needed in answering the online form.  

There is a part in the application wherein one will be asked about a certain program proposal that an applicant will pursue in the course of the fellowship. Something that could help or is aligned with the track an applicant has chosen. My advocacy was something very close to my heart, education. What I thought during the time when I was answering the form was that if you really know from your heart what you want to achieve and what you want to pursue, it will come out naturally. 

SEMIFINALIST. Honestly, I never expected to be chosen as one of the 10 semifinalists in the country. I thought that there might be more interesting programs and proposals from all the applicants all over the country who really wanted to join the fellowship. I even responded late in the email notifying me of my interview schedule since we just arrived from Masbate province. I only knew about it when Ryan of the US Embassy called me up and informed me that I was supposed to have the interview during that time when he called. I asked to be rescheduled and it was granted. 

The pressure for the interview and making it to the program was high, especially upon knowing that there are three of us from the YLGG and one from its facilitators. I did not intend to inform everyone except those whom I asked for advise and prayers- I though that it will lessen the pressure, however, my name was already included in the FB conversation and everybody was wishing us good luck. My wife and my sister-in-law who helped me out prepare for the interview (like setting up the internet and the lighting in my study room), were the only ones at home who knew about it.

I really prayed hard that God will guide me during the interview. I even prayed that my father will help me out.  

INTERVIEW. I do not know whether or not there is reason behind my internet connection to be cut (even if you paid online, it will still be processed the next day) on the most nerve-wreaking night for me. So I merely relied on my mobile phone's internet connection. 

Representative from the US Embassy in the Philippines Ryan and an officer from the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL) Skyler conducted the interview via Skype. The interview was held for 30 minutes. At first I was really nervous. It felt like having the same experience of being a news reporter doing a live report and an interview afterwards by the anchor. (I really thought this helped me out a lot!) 

I find the questions during the interview very helpful. Ryan and Skyler asked some questions which helped me out to clarify my project proposal. The two were very supportive and understanding. I really appreciate how they listen attentively. 

I was sharing with my wife Lyle about how I did during the interview. She was not happy about the thought of me leaving so she said that even if I get in, she won't allow me to. She also thinks of it as too imperialistic. I just told her that I am not even sure yet if I'd make it knowing the cut throat competition there is. 

ACCEPTANCE. I went to bed late the night before I received the email. I was preparing for a recitation in my law class the following day so I needed to sleep more. However, the message I received via Instagram informing me that results are already out woke me up. I was thrilled and was at the same time nervous. 

I could not believe that I made it to the fellowship program. So many ideas were going on my mind. I thought that I was still day dreaming or still asleep. I told my wife about it and she was still unhappy. I thought that she will understand, in time. I immediately prayed and thank God and my dad about it. 

Facebook screenshot from NMYL.

The night we were told that we were chosen, NMYL posted this on their Facebook page. Three delegates for this year's Professional Fellows are young legislators including Councilor LA of Infanta, Quezon and Vice Governor Kaye Revil of Masbate. I, being the youngest.

ACYPL Program Manager
Elliot Bell-Krasner shared on
his Facebook account his greetings.
Photo screen cap from Mr. Krasner's FB.

(UPDATE: As of 2: 12 this morning when I shared with Elliot my blog entry, he replied with this message below. Thanks, Elliot!)

I told my mom about it and she was teary-eyed during our conversation. She said that if only my dad was alive, he could have been very proud of me. I could not help but cry, not only because of happiness but because I miss my dad during such moment. My mom advised me to tell Mayor Bona the soonest. 

I was about to go to the municipal hall when I remembered that Mayor Bona has a scheduled meeting with the governor in the morning so I just went in the afternoon. 

I was nervous on how to share my happiness with the mayor. Mayor Bona was very busy when I arrived at her office but she still found time to meet me. I told her the good news and showed her the acceptance letter. She was so happy that I made it. She began telling some officers at her office about it and I was warmly greeted with congratulations. I told her that I will make our municipality and her proud in the said fellowship. I really appreciate the way our mayor supports every endeavour especially if it is for our development and for the goof our municipality.

GRAB OPPORTUNITIES. To those who are reading this entry, especially to students, I encourage you to take whatever learning opportunities that will come your way. Some opportunity never comes back, so you just have to grab it the first time. I am thankful to the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYMPL)  and to the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) and the people behind these organizations for this great opportunity. Special thanks to Councilor Sheina Marie Onrubia for the tips and prayers, and to Ma'am Fritzie Aguado for all the information and support. 

Learning must never stop and developing yourself and your ideas for the greater purpose of serving and sharing to others whatever learning you have gotten. 

-------

To know more about ACYPL, NMYL, YSEALI, please check their website through the links here on my blog. 

Going back to where our love story has started

If you are expecting for a long romantic blog post, then I am very sorry to disappoint you. This blog entry is a story of success rather than of romance. Sweet success which is a by-product of sacrifice, inspiration, and motivation.

Lyle was accepted recently in her Master's degree in Language and Literature (MALL) application at UP Baguio. So yesterday, I accompanied her together with my mom, my niece Mia, and Jing-Jing to UP to get admission slip. 

Photo collage of Lyle and I when we were freshmen at
UP in 2009 and during  junior year in 2011.

UP Baguio will always have a special place in my heart, in our hearts. This is the place where I first met Lyle, and where I fell in love with her. So here's the chessy part, huh? Nay. 

During Lyle's University graduation
a few days before mine in 2012.

She is pursuing an advanced degree to be able to learn more about the lessons she shares with her students in the Senior High School program at the biggest high school in the region, Mangaldan National High School. I think that it will be beneficial for students to learn new theories and concepts which could be used not just in the four-corners of the classroom but rather in real life as well. 

Obtaining an advanced degree, aside from the bachelor's degree in my opinion makes a person more competitive in the field where he or she is into especially in the present time where cut-throat competition in job search is high. 

In 2010 when the United States of America was experiencing recession, the New York Times reported that interest of people taking master's degree and even law degree was high. Interviewers said in the article that taking advanced degree could make them appealable to future employers. 

To those who are not yet really sure of what they are going to do after college or are currently lost in their dreams, I think that taking master's degree or even a law degree could guide you on what you really want to pursue- and this has been a testament of some lawyers I know who used to not decipher what to pursue after graduation. 

UP offers a wide array of graduate studies programs which you could choose from or visit some universities or colleges near you which offer affordable tuition, reasonable class schedule, and credible professors. 

Again, if you're currently lost, do not be worried. There is someone searching for you, too. Who knows he or she could be one of your classmates in an advanced degree class? Right? 

I didn't graduate in the first section, so what?

I was disheartened at first, but it did not stop me to focus on my academics and goals way back in high school.

During senior year at MNHS SSSC infront of CB.

It all started in the first year level at the biggest school in the region Mangaldan National High School. It was a gloomy afternoon when the result for the Special Science Stream Class was posted. Naturally, I looked for my name in the first coupon bond posted which was the list for students admitted for the first section, Charles. I was confused perhaps somebody missed to write my name on the list.  So, with heavy heart I searched my name on the second paper and there, the paper under the section Dalton, I read my name. 

My parents were saddened but were still happy that I made it to the second batch of the SSSC. I did my best in class, performed in academics, and participated in various extra-curricular activities. Most of the time, I was out joining seminars and contests, and was even voted as the first year batch chairperson of the Supreme Student Government. 

With due diligence and focus, I got a pretty good average at the end of the school year and was assigned at the first section. Here you go, my dream came true to be reunited with old friends. But the journey became more difficult with all the Mathematics subjects merged in this year level. We were acquainted with Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics- all my waterloo. Then come extra-currciular activities wherein I joined some contests which landed us to regional levels representing our division. I was again reelected as the batch chairperson for the entire second year class. It was difficult jumbling everything during that time. I was almost ejected as student of the Special Science Stream Class because of Algebra, but luckily I was still in the program, however, was transferred back to the second section. 

The last two years of my high school life was spent on the second section of the SSSC. I was elected in a national position and eventually was elected as President of the Supreme Student Government. Review schedule for the UPCAT and other college entrance tests and various national and regional competitions came my way. I lost focus. However, my grades were still good. 

SSG Officers for SY 2007-2008 with school officials.

During high school graduation, I did not graduate with honors but was awarded with some meritorious awards such as the President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Outstanding Student Leader award. I promised my parents that I might not have given them that medallion which bears the honor student title, but I would do better in college. 

During my high school graduation at
MNHS in 2008.

The vow I made to my parents coupled with determination and prayers resulted positively. I graduated cum Laude in the University of the Philippines Diliman. I will never forget the smile, happiness of daddy and mommy during that moment. I even made them wear my medallion.

With mom and dad after college grad.

Honored my father by passing over the
medallion to him after our college
graduation.

Almost a decade after my high school graduation, I am now serving my hometown, my belove Mangaldan. My failure during high school or in college do not define who I am now. They even pushed me to become the better version of myself and without those trials and failures, I will not be who I am today- more determined and more focused in attaining my goals in life. 

To students who feel disappointed or disheartened by the section they belong to, let it be and focus on what lies ahead of you. It is not about what section you belong to after all, it's about the student who perseveres and studies very well. Do not be ashamed on the section you belong to and be proud rather that you are doing your best in whatever difficult circumstances you are into. Besides, you wouldn't write it on your resume. I think what's more helpful is you invoke the intercession of the Lord in whatever endeavour you have now because He will lead you on the right path. 

Chase you dreams!

Change has come

To those who have been following this blog site since 2010, it's time to bid farewell to ALDRINandMEDIA blog name and say hi to the new KonsiALDRIN.

Changing the blog name indicates growth and development not just in the blog site but also to the author (that's me) as well.

Surely, this platform will be an avenue where my life as a public servant and my passion and advocacies will meet. I am excited to share more stories here than ever before. I am also planning on archiving memories or stories even retroactively to be able to post here.

With some MNHS students after my guidance talk here.

Dad's in a better place now

He stayed the same way from the last time I saw him and from the last time we went to the mall together. He was strong and care-free.

One of the meeting de avanses my dad
attended during his last campaign in
2016. This was one his
remaining days alive,
being with our kabaleyans.

The scenario started inside the mall. My mom and I together with my dad were doing our grocery together. As usual, he goes on his own picking various items while I push the grocery cart together with my mom. When mom asked about his whereabouts, I told her that he was buying various tools for his cars. He was wearing his usual shirt and shorts with rubber shoes.

GOING HOME. The second scene when I was driving my mom going home using a motorcyle while my dad decided to drive the van with our groceries. We were stocked in traffic so we decided to go back to dad and ride the van.

STAYING FOR GOOD. The next scene was inside a house I've never seen before. It was like a rest house near the beach. Dad was there. We were convincing him to go home with us. He refused. He said that he has already made his promise to stay in the said house. I told him that he was unfair. I told him he should also take care of his grandchildren the way he took care of my sister's children. He smiled. 

For the first time this year, I dreamt about daddy. He talked to me in that dream.

I woke up sobbing. I never expected that dad will be in my dream, more than a year after his death. 

If there is a message out of this dream that would be his assurance that he is in a better place now. He remains to be in my heart and will always be.

My dad carrying my eldest daughter
 Lyrin during our last Christmas together
 in 2015.

What's up

I received a private message on my Facebook page from a senior Communications student Kerzly yesterday. Kerzly, who is a resident of Barangay Salaan here in Mangaldan asked information about the groundbreaking ceremony of the Public Market facade which happened last Monday. She said that she needed it for her online journalism class. I referred the OIC-Market Supervisor Mr. Bong Rivera to her. 

Kerzly's message echoes a longing for writing to me. This made me miss my college days when we also get to write our blogs entries which made me create this blog. I took elective classes focused on online media under Dr. Data Canlas wherein we created the UP Cyber Nomads. 

As I browse this blog, I noticed that the last entry was posted two years ago. I was planning to create another site but I do not want my previous entries or memories here be deleted and wasted. So, with diligence I pray that I could be able to maintain this blog wherein I could share my stories and journey as a young legislator fuelled by passion and advocacies. 

This photo was taken during the 

Committee Meeting of the Provincial 

Board with some LGU Mangaldan officials 

earlier this year. 

Renascent

Two years ago, I  wrote my last blog entry.

I must admit that I missed blogging- which I consider as an avenue for sharing my thoughts and expressing my emotions on various topics through the art of writing. However, the daily grind of work as a broadcast journalist and family responsibilities as a father should not be a hindrance to me in pursuing my love for writing, So today, I am renewing my vow to write again on this blog site.

Perks of writing.  I believe that one of the perks of writing is that one could harness his abilities to orderly arrange his thoughts and putting it to words. Moreover, one could also enrich his vocabulary by incorporating terminologies new to him and applying those words on sentences that he uses.

Giving birth to ideas. One of my friends who is a writer (who actually published a book on his own) said that writing gives opportunities for new ideas to be conceptualized, or shortly, to be born. I think this is true because one could also challenge a debate on a particular post if a reader finds the article confusing or questionable. That is aside from sharing information to readers on a particular topic or idea.

Moving forward. From this day on, this blog will not just be about thoughts or random rants that I encounter to just express my frustrations but will also be an avenue to inspire people. I will share unique and unforgettable experiences that I encounter while gathering news on the field where I meet people of different background and struggles.

Untold stories. This blog, I hope, will also be an avenue to share inspiring stories that are untold in a one-minuter news story package.

     

Gardening Day

Yesterday dad and mom woke us up to accompany them buy new plants for our mini garden at home. Daddy drove the car, mommy sat on the passenger's seat, and Lyle and I sat on the backseat of Navara. 

We navigated the town of Laoac since daddy does not know the exact location where we were heading. So he had to go down the car and ask some residents. 

Thank God we didn't get lost and found the place after minutes of driving.

Dad and mom immediately searched for plants they preferred. I, too, looked for ornamentals which could be placed inside the house.

It's sad for me not to know the names of the plants we bought. But one plant stocked in my memory. It's the little plant named Dollar or Welcome Plant. I bought three of these plants and placed in our sala.

The pick up was full with ornamentals we bought.

When you get so stressed out, gardening can be a relaxing therapy to destress. Plus, the bonding moment you get to have with your family. I love off-duty Saturdays!