Thursday, September 18, 2014

Service at Samsung Care SM North Edsa

My Aunt was desperate, she's been hounding every person on her Facebook that she's having a problem with her Samsung tablet.  I tinkered with it extensively, tried to update the software, deleted and downloaded apps, reset the tablet via hard and soft reset but nothing seemed to work. Her Samsung tablet kept on getting this 110 error.  I searched the web for possible solutions but nothing worked.  There was no choice but to bring it to the Samsung Care at SM North Edsa.

Coming from my experience with Cherry Mobile's after sales service, I can't help but compare the two in my head.  Regardless of such, here are my observations.

1.  The line queue is organized at Samsung Care. There is a separate queue for claiming, repair and priority (senior/PWD).  It is computerized.  You can view from the screens what number is being served to what counter and the remaining people waiting in line.  You'll get the idea of how many are still waiting. My aunt is in her senior years that's why it took just a small amount of waiting time.

2.  All customer service counters are open and seamlessly handling customers, whether they are for repair or just waiting to claim their repaired phones and tablets.

3.  The prices of their services are pasted on each of the counter so you'll immediately have an idea what you're going to pay for basic services.  Of course prices may go up depending on the diagnosis or if parts will be needed.  If under warranty, I guess it should be free unless they void the warranty.  My aunt's Samsung tablet was a gift and was not bought here in the Philippines, plus it's more than a year so we expected to pay for the services.

4.  The representative who handled our concern was courteous and pleasant.  I was the one who explained to her the error that kept popping up in my aunt's tablet.  She immediately recognized the problem, a corrupted software, to be exact a corrupt Android software.  She explained to us that it could have been due to the upgrade of the Android system or because we may have downloaded a software from the store and something happened along the way that it caused the corruption of the whole system.

5.  Three days, after three days we can get the tablet.  I think that's fast enough for me.  They told me that they will either text or call my aunt to pick-up the tablet.  I went there on the third day even before they could send a message that it was ready for pick up.  My aunt gave me her authorization letter and ID for me to pick it up, and together with my own government issued ID, and of course the payment, I was able to get her tablet from Samsung Care.

6.  I went to Samsung Care SM North to get my Aunt's tablet  past their cut-off time but since I need it because my mom is leaving early the next day to give it to my Aunt, I still went inside and asked if they would consider giving me the tablet if it's done.  Since I was just a few minutes late, they accommodated me.  For me that was really a very good service.

7.  The initial person who took time to look if my Aunt's tablet was ready for pick-up did it with ease, they know where to look and they seemed to track everything.  It took such a short time for her to locate the tablet.  She answered my question and lead me to the right person who's in-charge of releasing the tablet.

8.  When I was handed the tablet, the customer representative didn't let me leave until I was able to log in, use the internet, and successfully downloaded an application.  They let me access their wifi connection and while waiting he was kind enough to talk to me and answer questions about tablet overheating, etc. It took awhile to download an app but the customer representative didn't act as if I'm wasting his time or anything.

Overall, the Samsung Service at SM North Edsa is impressive. I wouldn't have doubts leaving them my gadget if I have a Samsung.  Their customer service is more than what I had expected. Thanks.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Renewal of NC/COC Requirements (TESDA)

If your National Certificate (NC) or Certificate of Competency (COC) is expiring, it's worth a visit to TESDA especially if you need such credentials in your current work or if you need it for whatever purpose.  Before going to TESDA for renewal of your NC or COC, make sure that you have the requirements so you save time, energy and money.  I got this list of requirements from TESDA Quezon City.  Please note that I don't work for TESDA. My NC Certificate is about to expire that's why I inquired for this.

Take note of the following when applying for your NC or COC renewal:

1.  Request Letter
It is a formal letter so care should be given when writing this one.  It is a good idea to explain here the reason for your intent to renew your NC or COC.

2.  Original NC/COC
Original, not a scanned copy or photocopy of your NC/COC.  If you somehow lost the original copy of your NC/COC but you have the scanned copy or photocopy of it then you should bring this along with an Addidavit of Loss for the said documents.

3.  Application Form
This form is given when you go to TESDA.

4.  Two (2) pieces passport size picture (white background, with collar)
They will not process your application unless your picture meets the above requirements.

5.  Certificate of Employment
This document will serve as an evidence that you are making use or have made use of your skills given the certification that you have.

6.  Renewal Fee (PhP 100.00)

7.  Visit TESDA
Make time to personally go to TESDA.

8.  If you're outside of the country and you can't personally go to TESDA to renew your NC or COC, you need to provide a Special Power of Attorney from where you're at to your representative.  I don't really know how this works but you can ask the Philippine Embassy or ask around how to do this in the country where you're at.

Note:  The above are subject to change without prior notice.

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Favorite Robin Williams' Movies

Robin Williams is really one of the great actors of my time, of this time. In honor of this great actor, here are the most memorable groundbreaking movies that he starred in that really touched my life. (not in any particular order)

1.  What Dreams May Come


2.  Dead Poet's Society


3.  Good Will Hunting


4.  Patch Adams


5.  The Birdcage


6.  Mrs. Doubtfire


7.  Popeye


8.  Awakenings


Monday, July 7, 2014

Netiquette

If you want to put yourself out there in the virtual world of the internet, there are some written and unwritten rules that you should consider adhering to.  These rules are not meant to govern your freedom of expression or undermine any rules existing out there, it's just a mere list of things that aim to guide us in how we should behave in the internet arena.

1.  Essentially when we post something on the net, we want to communicate something.  Our efforts of communicating a message would be futile if the intended readers would not be able to grasp what we're saying,  It is therefore important not to shorten words or use abbreviations that only you can understand and decipher.

2.  It is hard to fully express an emotion when writing as compared to a face-to-face situation, but it's easy to notice a post when written in ALL CAPS, that's why it is considered as "shouting".  Check yourself, would you want to shout at the top of your lungs just to express something?  If you answered no, then you don't need to write something in ALL CAPS.

3.  When writing an e-mail, you should never leave out the "Subject" field.  If the one you are sending an email to receives more than 50, 100 emails or more each day, how can you make sure that yours will be read immediately? The only way to catch the attention of your reader is to indicate in your "subject" field the main content of your email, in the hope that the recipient of your email will prioritize reading it.

4.  When writing in forums, make sure that you read first the rules governing the forum site and adhere to forum site rules.  Make sure that your posts in these forums are within the topic being discussed.  Refrain from posting advertisements that's off-topic.

5.  Refrain from using words of profanity, vulgarity and contents that are libelous, defamatory, inaccurate, obscene, hostile, discriminatory, and the likes.  One can be disagreeable but still express opinion or the likes in a respectful and constructive manner.  It's advisable NOT to engage in "flamewars" - exchanging words with the intent to harm.  Be kind to point out mistakes with the intent to educate and not to insult or degrade a specific person.

6.  Do not share anybody's private information unless it's your own.  Try using BCC when e-mailing to several people that are not in any way related to one another.

7.  It is advised to not share passwords and usernames.  Our security is our responsibility.

8.  Post or write things that you think are relevant and verified information.  Try not to post things that you yourself have not checked to be true because it can lead to wrong information going to wrong individuals that may eventually cause harm.  If you are not sure about the information that you post, please note that in your post.

There are other rules out there specific for the different sites. Universally I think what is important is you regard yourself virtually by how you would be in person in a public arena.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Cherry Mobile After Sales Experience at SM North Edsa - Annex

One day, my dad's cellphone of almost one year, Cherry Mobile Flare S100, suddenly overheats, drains the battery and when charged it never reached the 100% like it used to.

So here's when it all started, while my dad was charging his phone somebody borrowed his charger.  He let my cousin borrow the charger because they have the same phone Cherry Mobile Flare S100 and it was kind of an emergency situation. When my cousin returned the charger, he resumed charging his phone.  After awhile, he noticed that the phone overheated which never happened before.  He disregarded it because he was monitoring the phone and waiting for it to reach 100%.  By the way, my dad is 70+ years old so he is quite careful with things and he is a neat freak.  He wanted his phone to say that it is fully charged before unplugging it.  I told him to unplug it after a few hours of waiting because the phone is abnormally hot and I don't think it will ever reach the 100%.  It was 97% for almost an hour and it was time for bed.  The next day, the phone was dead.

Since the warranty of Cherry Mobile Flare S100 is almost up (like a month remaining), I immediately went to the Cherry Mobile Service Center located at SM North Edsa - Annex. I wanted to be there very early in the morning because I know for a fact that the line could be very long and that it may take awhile for my turn.  I could say that I am a very patient person, had my training during my college days, so it was not supposed to be a big deal but it was weekend and time was supposed to be quality time for my son that's why I brought him with me to the Cherry Mobile Service Center as early as possible.  Got a number, it was "9".  It took me around 30 minutes to be called. 

My experience while talking to the customer service representative was just so, so.  I have the impression that they're like robots or just order takers. I wouldn't consider them technically savvy with phones. The customer representative of Cherry Mobile asked what's the problem and then told me to wait for their technician to take a look at the phone. I told her that the phone wouldn't turn on and I don't know if the culprit was the phone or the battery.  She came back and told me that the problem was the cell phone and not the battery (although she told me the battery was 3%) and that it wouldn't turn on.  She asked if I would be willing to have them repair/take a look at the unit and asked me to follow it up after three weeks, they would also send an SMS if they phone is ready for pick-up.  The customer service representative said they would have to send it to some place to have it fixed and most likely the information like your photos, contacts, etc will be erased.

After a few weeks, I called their mobile hotline since it was next to impossible to reach their landline number.  They informed me that it's ready for pick up.  I immediately went to Cherry Mobile Service Center to get the unit.  I submitted the Job Order form for them to locate the Cherry Mobile Flare and I was given a newly formatted cellphone.  Of course we weren't able to charge the battery since we don't have the unit to charge it with so they charge the phone over there. I should say that the charging took quite a relatively long time.  The phone turned on and I was just happy that it's now working.  Got home and gave it to my dad.  We charged the phone, the next day... Bam! The phone is dead again and won't turn on.  My dad was not in our house for the weekend so we communicated via my cousin's phone (the one that originally borrowed my dad's phone). They exchanged batteries and my dad's phone would turn on.  So we came to the conclusion that maybe the problem now was the battery.  The warranty of my dad's Cherry Mobile Flare was up at that time so what I did was look for a new battery.  I looked almost every Cherry Mobile stores, service center scattered at SM North but there's not one available.  The Cherry Mobile sales person told me in their SM North Edsa branch that it would cost P400 to buy it from them.  I have no choice but to buy it from other stores which cost me PhP500 in the hope that my dad would be able to use  ASAP.

We were able to use the phone initially.  We noticed the overheating once again.  We charged the new battery when it reached the low battery status.  Problem again, it wouldn't reach the 100% level.  We thought the battery was the one to blame, we thought that the battery I bought was a lemon.  So the next day we went to the store where I bought the battery from and they immediately replaced it with a new one. No questions asked.

Same problem.  And the warranty was up.  I didn't bring it to the Cherry Mobile store because by then I would have to pay for it and wait again for a few weeks before my dad could use it again.  So we decided to go to the friendly neighborhood cellphone technician.  He told me that the phone was overcharged, and that the flow of the electricity inside the phone was "shorted", that's why it wouldn't charge correctly and drains the battery of every electricity that it has.  Consequently even if the cellphone was off, the phone overheats.

After an hour, the cellphone technician was able to lessen the heat coming from the phone but not totally.  The charging percent is more accurate now but the upper portion of the phone is still heating up.  We paid him P400 for it.  The technician told me that he can't do anything about it because if he tries to remove the one that's causing the heat in the upper part of the phone, it was as good as getting rid of the speaker function of the phone.  The technician told me that it's in good working condition.

After a day, same problem.  Because the phone's still overheats on the upper part of the phone, it still drains the battery's juice so in essence we can't still have a decent working phone.  We brought it back to the cellphone technician and left if with him for three days.  He then told us that there's no other solution but to replace the motherboard and if someone sold him the same model with a decent motherboard he will text us immediately.  We paid for the service that's incomplete.

In the end I bought my dad a new phone. Not a Cherry Mobile brand this time.  That's all that I think I can do for him to have a working phone on his hand.

Cherry Mobile Flare S100 is a very nice phone, please don't get me wrong.  In fact, my dad still wants his old phone back.  So if you have one or if you want one just make sure you don't ever overcharge this phone.

The after sales service of Cherry Mobile indeed needs more improvement.

LESSONS LEARNED:

LESSON 1:  Never let anyone borrow your Cherry Mobile charger!   Just kidding! If somebody borrows your charger while you are charging your phone, let them borrow it, but wait again for your phone to indicate that you need charging before you plug it again. 

LESSON 2:  Don't overcharge your gadget. Monitor the time it usually takes for your gadget to reach its full capacity.  

LESSON 3:  Go to a Cherry Mobile Service Center the earliest possible time or near closing time.  I've also noticed fewer clients are waiting near mall closing time.  If you don't have any choice, get the number and then do your other shopping/errands near the area while monitoring if it's almost your turn.  Waiting will definitely eat your time.  Be prepared to wait more than expected. The number of customer service representatives will not adjust to the number of clients requiring assistance

LESSON 4:  Make sure that you have a back-up phone or that you're ready to not have a phone for almost a month.  

LESSON 5:  Copy important files or back-up your data using cloud services, etc. to make sure that you won't lose pertinent information.

LESSON 6:  Make sure that you check and confirm if the battery is really the problem.  Ask someone who knows how to check if the battery is really dead and if it is better to replace it before buying a new one.  

LESSON 7:  Make sure that when you go to the Cherry Mobile Service Center you tell them what your experiences are with the phone and don't accept it if they still hasn't solve the problem.  During diagnosis, don't just accept what the Customer Sales Representative writes on your job order if it's incomplete.  Have them write down the complete problem you are experiencing.  I am not at all impressed with their diagnostic testing and the way that they handled my phone. They should be the experts, right?

LESSON 8:  Make sure that when you go to any cellphone technician you're definite with what you want so he won't give it back to you with a so-so repair.  Look for a cellphone technician that has a "no fix, no pay" policy.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Getting a Union Bank E-ON Cyber Account

To withdraw money from Paypal in the Philippines, I have decided to apply for an E-On Cyber Account even if local banks can now accept Paypal funds in savings account (with ATM).  One reason why I chose to open an E-On Cyber Account is because every withdrawal is free with Eon Cyber Account.  Of course, there are some minor setbacks like an Annual fee of PhP350, every withdrawal using the ATM has a fee of PhP10 (Union Bank ATM machines) to PhP15 (Other banks' ATM), every withdrawal over the counter has a fee (PhP100, I think).  Well, Eon Cyber Account is supposedly for online transactions that's why it applied fees on other transactions.

It's really easy to apply for an Eon Cyber Account

1.  Go to Union Bank website www.unionbankph.com
2.  Click "Eon" found at the top of the site.  Click for the "Eon Online Application".  Click "Apply Now".
3.  Read the Terms & Conditions of the UnionBank of the Philippines E-ON Visa Electron Card Agreement" and click "I Agree with the Terms & Conditions Stated Above"
4.  Fill out all the Online Application Form.  Fill in each Field and choose the branch where you want your card to be picked up.
5.  You will receive an SMS or an e-mail with reference number and pickup branch
6.  Have your 2 valid ID's photocopied.  Bring the original ID's with you.  Prepare to pay PhP350.
7.  Go to the Union bank branch.  Pay the Annual Fee. Show your ID's.  Sign some papers.
8.  Union Bank branch will print your name and account in your E-ON Cyber Account Card and give them to you with your PIN number.

Note:  Even if you don't have to deposit money, I suggest you deposit some money for your card verification/linking with Paypal.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Getting your Certificate of Authentication & Certification from TESDA

Here are the steps/guide in getting your Certificate of Authentication & Certification from TESDA:

1.  Make sure that you have your Certificate of Graduation (Diploma), original and certified true copies (2).
2.  Make sure that you have your Transcript of Records, original and certified true copies (2).
3.  Make sure that you have Special Order, original and certified true copies (2).
4.  Make sure that you have two (2) copies of 2 x 2 photos taken within the last 6 months, with white background and neutral expression, printed on a chemical-based photo paper, with collar.
5.  Pay the authentication fee (PhP 50 - as per TESDA website) to the cashier.
6.  Get receipt, claim stub with reference number.
7.  Wait for a few days
8.  Claim your documents at DFA (abroad) or TESDA (local) or you have the option to have it delivered to your specified address via DHL courier.

Note:
1.  If undergraduate, get certification from the School Director/Administrator
2.  If to be filed by authorized representative, make sure that you have an authorization letter from the applicant and ID of both the applicant and the representative (original and photocopy)
3.  The information above are subject to change without notice.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Hotels with Swimming Pool (Quezon City)

It's about to go hot - hot -  hot!  Summer time is almost here.  It's time to prepare for the much awaited summer vacation with family or with friends.  Where do we go?  That's a question!  There are a lot of places one can go to... out-of-town or maybe just around the city.  If you don't want to go out-of-town because you think traffic is everywhere and by the time you got out of the city, vacation time is over; or you have been out and about and you just want to stay somewhere in the city... then here's a list of hotels around Quezon City with swimming pools.  I am open with the possibility of booking a hotel with family or with friends just to unwind and relax in a pool over the weekends.  I believe that it's really not the place (although it is a great factor) but the companions that make a vacation or travel a unique and a memorable experience.

+63 2 6337222 , Toll Free: 1800 1888 0188
mnlcp@ihg.com

17 Orchard Road Eastwood City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City 1110 Philippines
(632) 570-7777
erh@richmondehotel.com.ph

222 P. Tuazon Blvd. Araneta Shopping Center, Metro Centro (Cubao), Quezon City
(632) 911-6954; (632) 911-6965; (632) 438-6673 to 74; (632) 438-6685; (632) 438-6690; (632) 913-8594; (632) 911-3169
inquire@amci.ph; reserve@fernandina88.com.ph; inquire@fernandina88.com.ph

1403 Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
(632) 371-8282
marketing@greateasternhotelmanila.com; sales@greateasternhotelmanila.com

Mother Ignacia Avenue, Quezon City
(632) 990-4452; (632) 990-4456; (632) 917-893-2676
info@labrezahotel.com

Matalino Road, Diliman, Quezon City
(632) 924-5051
info@sulorivierahotel.com

7.  Hotels in Timog
Timog Avenue Corner Tomas Morato Avenue, Quezon City
(632) 927-8001
reservations@imperial.ph

51 Timog Avenue, South Triangle, Quezon City
(632) 922-8888
sales@luxenthotel.com

170 Timog Avenue corner Scout Santiago St. Barangay Laging Handa, Quezon City
(632) 332-1658 to 60
sales@torreveneziasuites.com

61 Scout Tobias corner Scout Rallos St, Brgy Laging Handa, Quezon City
(632) 998-3117; (632) 806-1004; (632) 922-810-4692; (632) 922-814-2481
info@thecocoonhotel.com

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Computer Stores in SM Cyberzone with websites (Metro Manila)

Here is a list of online computer stores that I frequently visit before buying computer and techie stuffs.  One should arm oneself before going out there and buying computer stuffs that are "on sale".  Make sure that you do some research.  It is better that you know the current market price of computer items to help you find "real deals" and not lure you to buying because of some marketing hype.  Of course, bear in mind that there are many considerations in buying a certain item from a certain computer store.  My objective is to help you see what's out there to assist you in making decisions in buying computer stuffs.

SM Cyberzone Stores:
1.  Accent Micro/PC Live
2.  Compex
3.  Complink
4.  Electroworld
5.  Octagon 
6.  PC Express
7.  PC Gilmore
8.  Villman

Friday, March 21, 2014

Restaurant Review: 1st Colonial Grill

The 1st Colonial Grill in Legazpi, Albay is best known for their Sili Ice Cream.  The restaurant has been reviewed countless times by bloggers, tourists and even visited by television shows.  So when in Legazpi, Albay; it is a default for us to visit and experience dining at 1st Colonial Grill.

Some notes:

1.  We ate at 1st Colonial Grill's branch along Rizal St., Daraga Albay.  Even if it's not inside the mall, the restaurant was full of people that were lining up for a table.  If you're going to include going to 1st Colonial Grill in your itinerary, I suggest you allot more than enough time.

2.  This is not a fast food restaurant so don't expect your food to be served in the shortest possible time.  Our food was served within our expectations and we're not in a hurry or that hungry so it was not a big of a deal for us.

3.  According to them, their best seller among the list of Busog Sulit meals (with Tinapa Rice) is Garlicky Adobo.  Truly enough it's one heavy and delicious meal, some of us did not even requested rice refills.

4.  It was a first for us to taste the Sili ice cream or Chili ice cream.  At first the chili was overwhelming but the punch of the sili fizzled out just as fast.  I took one spoon after another.  It was a wonderful and a unique experience.  Overall the ice cream was very creamy with a punch.

5.  When in 1st Colonial Grill, one must try their Tinutong Ice Cream.  It is plain heaven, so creamy and delicious.  My son did not even share his ice cream.  I don't know about the other flavors but this one was recommended to us and we were not sorry that we tried it.

6.  The modern design of the restaurant gives an ambiance of a place that's nice for family bonding.  Friends would enjoy staying here for good food and nice conversation.

7.  The staffs and crews are very much accommodating and they make sure that we have whatever we need.  They also know their products very well.  The place is very clean and well maintained.

8.  If I would visit Bicol again, I would definitely go back to 1st Colonial Grill and try their other specialties.

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Restaurant Review: Small Talk Cafe (Legazpi, Albay)

We've met a Chinese gal who roamed around Legazpi City with us.  She told us that she heard about this famous pizza in Legazpi and so we asked the staff from Legazpi Tourist Inn what's this famous pizza.  The staff told us it's the one served by Small Talk Cafe.  And so we went.... dinner time... it was a Sunday...

Here are the things I took note of:

1.  Small Talk Cafe is full even on a Sunday night.  The waiter asked us if we made prior reservations because the restaurant is packed.  Luckily we didn't have to wait long or was rejected because a group was about to leave.  So guys, if you're going to visit try calling them first to reserve seats for you.( Tel:  052-4801393).

2.  Try Small Talk Cafe's combination pizza so you can try other pizza flavor in one order.  We tried their famous Bicolano and Bianco e Verde Pizza and we were not disappointed.  The crust is thin and we were able to enjoy its rich taste.

3.  Their pasta order is good for one serving.  We ordered Small Talk Cafe's delicious pinangat/laing pasta.  It was creamy, tasty and flavorful.  We want to try their other famous pasta but we were told it is not available.  We also tried ordering pili-based desserts but were not also available that time.  Try their other pasta I don't think you would be disappointed.

4.  It took awhile for them to serve the food, we thought maybe it's because the restaurant is packed.  We noticed that it took awhile for the other tables to get their food as well.  So if you plan to put Small Talk Cafe in your itinerary make sure you allot a longer time here than necessary or maybe you could call them and make an advance order.

5.  The place is really cozy and homey.  It is also well-maintained and very clean.  Modern infused with tradition.  You can bring friends or tourists here.  The history of this place brings back memories of the olden days and you can definitely feel the heart of something "pinoy" here.  Makes one feel proud of our heritage.

6.  There are different ways getting to Small Talk Cafe, one is via the jeepney and another via tricycle.  We rode the tricycle from Legazpi Tourist Inn and the driver asked us to pay PhP150 in which he would wait for us and drive us back to the hotel.  I know it would seemed like a pricey ride but since we had a kid with us and it is night time we thought it would just be like paying additional for our own safety and as our way of helping our own kababayan.

7.  The crowd varies at Small Talk Cafe.  Some came with friends.  Some came with their families.  Some even came with office associates.  Some tourists are also dining here.

8.  The tricycle driver told us that Small Talk Cafe paved the way for other cafes to be built in the area.  They used to be just a small family-owned cafe serving only few people but has grown tremendously due to good food and service.   

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Resort Review: Misibis Bay

Things you may need to know about Misibis Bay:

1.  It is more or less an hour drive from the city.  There is a possibility of dizziness because of the downhill, uphill and zigzag road drive so just be prepared.  Meanwhile, the view going there is breathtakingly beautiful.

2.  The food is superb.  The buffet has great selection of food although of course not as many as those buffet restaurants in Manila.

3.  The beach and pool is beautiful and not crowded.

4.  There are so many things you can do in a day (non-motorized activities and use of resort facilities).  It is more advisable to spend more than a day to enjoy everything the resort can offer.

5.  The staffs are friendly and yet distant so as to let you enjoy your privacy.  I felt both at home and safe.

6.  The Eco Park Tour is worth doing (includes the zip line - free for now).

7.  It is a bit expensive (for me) but for some it may not be so expensive.

8.  If you're into experiencing other thrilling activities like luge ride, atv ride, etc. be prepared to pay additional fees.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Hotel Review: Legazpi Tourist Inn (Legazpi, Albay)

Why stay at Legazpi Tourist Inn, Legazpi, Albay...

1.  Accessible - walking distance to Embarcadero (whale shark sighting), Pacific Mall, Gaisano Mall, LCC Mall, the market, banks, etc.
2.  Nice and friendly staff - one can approach anybody from the staff and they will entertain you even during their break time.  They would go out of their way to help you find your way around the city and answer your questions.  When we needed something, they would respond as fast as they can.
3.  Affordable room rates - We were 3 and a kid and we only paid 1,700 (with A/C) for a night.
4.  Spacious rooms - Even with the pull-out bed, the room that we had is not that crowded between the three of us.
5.  Clean - visually it's relatively clean and maintained.
6.  Fast and reliable internet - Our room is near the reception area maybe that's why we were able to get a good signal.
7.  Transportation is not a problem - even at night tricycles, jeeps and taxi cabs are available and are plying the area.
8.  It has a "homey" ambiance that makes you feel welcome and safe whether you are local or not.

Legazpi Tourist Inn needs improvement on the following:
1.  The bathroom is clean but not that sterile, the smell of cockroach is on their sink.
2.  The water pressure in the shower is not that strong.  
3.  Bathroom fixtures need to be upgraded, we called their maintenance once in a while because we can't turn the shower knob because it's quite loose.  Good thing the staffs are accommodating.
4.  The bed sheets and towels are clean but some are obviously worn out.  
5.  We were out the whole day but no housekeeping done in the room and bath.

If you need a place to lay your head in Legazpi City then Legazpi Tourist Inn is worth considering.  It may need some improvements but generally if you have simple needs then it is a good enough place to stay considering everything (cost, location, amenities. etc.).

Monday, February 17, 2014

Spiritual Habits (Prayers)

I believe living each day is a balancing act between spiritual and worldly priorities.  As we nourish and love our physical bodies, we also need to nourish and love our spirituality.  One spiritual habit that I would like to keep on practicing is the habit of prayer.  There is power in prayers and countless times I have proven that through my own experiences.  I may not be a prayerful person but I have come to acknowledge that sometimes even if we have nothing or if we can not do anything, we have God and prayers to hold on to.

Prayer is a form of communication to God so if I feel like reading a prayer, I do that and if I needed to tell God something, I also do that.  It depends on the condition of my heart and spirit.  

Prayer to me is also a form of meditation, in meditation that's when I try to hear what God wants me to hear. 

The following are prayer habits that I want to nourish and renew.

1.  Morning Prayer - starting one's day with a prayer makes one humble and connected to the living God.  
I start my prayer by just giving thanks to God for the blessing and grace of another day.  I declare that "I am happy, I am healthy and that I am prosperous" to send out a message of the things that I am asking and simultaneously thanking God that I already have it.  Then I would just meditate.  In utter silence I just hear myself breathe and just be present in the moment.  Then, I pray the "Lord's Prayer - Our Father".

Our Father
Our Father who is in heaven, holy be your name. Your Kingdom come. Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

2.  Prayer Before and After Meals - just a simple prayer to ask God to bless the food and then thanking God for the food.

Prayer Before Meals - Bless us, O Lord, and these your gifts, which we are about to receive from your goodness, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer After Meals - We give you thanks, Almighty God, for all Your benefits, who live and reign, world without end. Amen. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

3.  Prayer before going out (to work, to travel, etc) - a prayer for protection as we go out to the world.

My holy Angel Guardian, ask the Lord to bless the journey which I undertake, that it may profit the health of my soul and body; that I may reach its end, and that, returning safe and sound, I may find my family in good health. Do thou guard, guide and preserve us. Amen.

4.  Three o'clock prayer to the Divine Mercy - 

You died, Jesus, but the source of life flowed out for souls and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fountain of Life, immeasurable Divine Mercy, cover the whole world and empty yourself out upon us. O Blood and Water which flowed out from the heart of Jesus as a Fountain of Mercy for us, I trust in You! Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and the whole world. (3 times) Jesus, King of Mercy, we trust in You!

5.  Novena to God's Love (from Bo Sanchez) - one can say this prayer anytime during the day.  

Today, I Receive All Of God’s Love For Me
Today, I Open Myself To Thee Unbounded Limitless, Overflowing Abundance Of God’s Universe
Today, I Open Myself To Your Blessings, Healings, and Miracles
Today, I Open Myself To God’s Word So I Would Become More Like Jesus Everyday
Today, I Proclaim That I Am God’s Beloved, I Am God’s Servant, I Am God’s Powerful Champion
And Because I Am Blessed, I Will Bless The World In Jesus Name
AMEN.
6.  Evening Prayer - before I sleep, no matter how sleepy I am, I try my best to say a small prayer and then the Lord's Prayer - Our Father.

Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here, ever this day [or night] be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.

7.  Holy Rosary - To honor The Holy Mother of God.

There are 15 promises for praying the rosary:  

1.  Whosoever shall faithfully serve me by the recitation of the Rosary shall receive signal graces.
2.  I promise my special protection and the greatest graces to all those who shall recite the Rosary.
3.  The Rosary shall be a powerful armor against hell, it will destroy vice, decrease sin and defeat heresies.
4.  It will cause good works to flourish; it will obtain for souls the abundant mercy of God; it will withdraw the hearts of men from the love of the world and its vanities, and will lift them to the desire for Eternal Things. Oh, that souls would sanctify themselves by this means.
5.  The soul which recommends itself to me by the recitation of the Rosary shall not perish.
6.  Whosoever shall recite the Rosary devoutly, applying himself to the consideration of its Sacred Mysteries shall never be conquered by misfortune. God will not chastise him in His justice, he shall not perish by an unprovided death; if he be just he shall remain in the grace of God, and become worthy of Eternal Life.
7.  Whoever shall have a true devotion for the Rosary shall not die without the Sacraments of the Church.
8.  Those who are faithful to recite the Rosary shall have during their life and at their death the Light of God and the plenitude of His Graces; at the moment of death they shall participate in the Merits of the Saints in Paradise.
9.  I shall deliver from purgatory those who have been devoted to the Rosary.
10.  The faithful children of the Rosary shall merit a high degree of Glory in Heaven.
11.  You shall obtain all you ask of me by recitation of the Rosary.
12.  All those who propagate the Holy Rosary shall be aided by me in their necessities.
13.  I have obtained from my Divine Son that all the advocates of the Rosary shall have for intercessors the entire Celestial Court during their life and at the hour of death.
14.  All who recite the Rosary are my Sons, and brothers of my Only Son Jesus Christ.
15.  Devotion to my Rosary is a great sign of predestination.

8.  Holy Mass - the highest form of prayer.

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Timeless Love Songs that Makes you Want to Fall in Love

1.  A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)


2.  Everything (Lifehouse)


3.  I Love You Always Forever



4.  Make You Feel My Love


5.  Standing Right Here Next to Me (Karla Bonnof)


6.  Take My Breath Away


7.  The First Time I Loved Forever


8.  Two Words (Lea Salonga)

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Shopping Malls in Quezon City with Movie Theaters

1.  Gateway Mall - Araneta Center, Cubao

2.  Eastwood Mall - Eastwood

3.  Fisher Mall - Quezon Avenue

4.  Robinsons (Robinsons Galleria,  Robinsons Magnolia, Robinsons Place Novaliches)

5.  SM (SM City Fairview, SM City Novaliches, SM City North Edsa, SM City Sta Mesa)

6.  Trinoma Mall

7.  Waltermart North Edsa

8.  Minor Players - Ali Mall & Ever Gotesco Commonwealth



View Larger Map

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Replacing Lost or Stolen PLDT Landline Plus Sim

If you lost or your PLDT Landline Plus Sim got stolen (with your phone, of course) here's what you should do to have it replaced:

1.  Call PLDT - 688-2700 (when using PLDT) or 888-8171 (for non-PLDT users).

Request to disconnect your PLDT Landline Plus sim until you have your replacement sim.  

If your PLDT Landline Plus sim is under the two-year lock-in period, you will not be able to disconnect because it will reset the lock-in period.  In such case, better to just head to your nearest PLDT business center to have it replaced ASAP.  Check and ask PLDT customer service to disable your PLDT Landline Plus account to call national, international and mobile numbers.  If the lock-in period is not an issue, then go ahead and request for a temporary disconnection.

By the way, calls are answered during office hours which is a disappointment really. 

2.  Get an affidavit of loss.  I'm not sure if this is required if you are the account holder, but since I am using the PLDT Landline Plus sim connected to the PLDT landline of a relative, I have to get one.  

3.  Bring your ID.  

4.  If you are a representative, bring your ID along with the ID of the account holder (optional).

5.  Provide an Authorization Letter (optional).

Check the signature, it should be the same signature used in the ID of the account holder.

6.  Head to your nearest PLDT Business Center.  Get your number and wait for your turn.

Check the PLDT Website or ask PLDT Customer Service where is the nearest PLDT Business Center near you.

7.  Submit the requirements to the PLDT Customer Service Representative.  Be ready to pay P100 for the PLDT Landline Plus sim card replacement or it can be billed on the next billing cycle.

8.  Wait within 24 hours for your PLDT Landline Plus sim card activation.



Thursday, January 23, 2014

Unli Rice in Quezon City Malls

Unlimited Rice, Kanin All You Can,  Rice All you Can, Rice refillable... however we call it, it's a marketing tactic that we enjoy...

1.  Adobo Connection (Kanin All You can Meals Starts at PhP99)
SM City Fairview (703-2283), SM City Sta. Mesa (788-6470), Ali Mall (709-5582), SM City North EDSA (709-5284), Robinsons Magnolia (0926-733-5701)


2.  Chick-boy (Rice-All-You-Can starts at PhP99)
Jackman Plaza (236-0260), Shopwise Cubao (441-4741), Sunshine Blvd Plaza (376-4752),  E. Rodriguez Complex (383-5555 / 411-5555)

3.  Chicken Deli (Kanin All You can starts at PhP99) 
SM City North Edsa Annex, SM City North Edsa Foodcourt
4.  Karate Kid (Rice refillable starts at PhP99)  Trinoma, Waltermart Munoz

5.  Mang Inasal  (Unlimited rice starts at approximately PhP99)
Alli Mall, Cybermall Eastwood, Eton Centris, Jackman Plaza, Robinsons Novaliches,  Waltermart, Shopwise Cubao, SM North Edsa Annex, SM Novaliches, Trinoma

6.  Ramen X (Rice bowl starts at PhP99)  
Trinoma, Eton Centris

7.  Tokyo Tokyo  (Unlimited rice starts at approximately PhP99)
SM Fairview, Eastwood, Ali Mall, SM City North Edsa, Trinoma

8.  Yabu: House of Katsu
SM North Edsa, Robinsons Magnolia


Friday, January 10, 2014

Mobile Number Prefixes

Since I'm using a landline phone that has free call to Globe or TM, it is but fitting to know the correct prefixes not just Globe but all mobile phones.

Please see below the list of prefixes per provider:

1.  GLOBE
0817
0917
0994

2.  GLOBE OR TOUCH MOBILE
0905
0906
0915
0916
0925 (now SUN)
0926
0927
0935
0936
0937 (ABS-CBN Mobile)
0996
0997

3.  SMART
0813
0918
0947
0998
0999

4.  SMART OR TALK 'N TEXT
0907
0908
0909
0910
0912
0919
0920
0921
0928
0929
0948
0949
0989

5.  SMART OR TALK 'N TEXT OR RED MOBILE
0930
0938
0939

6.  TALK 'N TEXT
0946

7.  SUN 
0922
0923
0925
0932
0933
0934
0942
0943

8.  OTHERS - Providers with a few prefixes assigned to them.  
EXPRESS 
0973
0974

NEXT MOBILE
0977
0978
0979

Source:  here & wikipedia

If you want to view it in ascending order, here it is.

0813 - Smart
0817 - Globe
0905 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0906 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0907 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0908 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0909 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0910 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0912 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0915 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0916 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0917 - Globe
0918 - Smart
0919 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0920 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0921 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0922 - Sun
0923 - Sun
0925 - (Globe, now SUN)
0926 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0927 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0928 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0929 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0930 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text or Red Mobile
0932 - Sun
0933 - Sun
0934 - Sun
0935 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0936 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0937 - (ABS-CBN Mobile - Globe)
0938 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text or Red Mobile
0939 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text or Red Mobile
0942 - Sun
0943 - Sun
0946 - Talk ‘N Text
0947 - Smart
0948 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0949 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0973 - Express
0974 - Express
0977 - Next Mobile
0978 - Next Mobile
0979 - Next Mobile
0989 - Smart or Talk ‘N Text
0994 - Globe
0996 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0997 - Globe or Touch Mobile (TM)
0998 - Smart
0999 - Smart