Peace and Conflict Intertwined-in-Between, Come in Both Ends

MSU, Marawi City

The seed of human conflict and violence sow in Adam’s time when Cain struck and killed his younger brother Abel out of envy and jealousy as their God chose the sacrificial offerings of the latter. Thousand years passed, “conflict and violence” has been the inevitable hindrance preventing to win the lasting peace. In the Philippines, the experience of conflict and violence has been part of history for hundred years since Spain’s colonial era. But, as of this writing, the so-called Mindanao Conflict has become a none ending struggle for the both Muslims, Christians, Lumads and other tribes. Many intellectuals had been attempting and persistently analyzing the problem, and scholarly framed peace resolutions to solve the cycle of conflicts. But through the years, the aim for peace seems vague and elusive. It was all nothing but just a black and white strained in a gray line.   

Conflict in the Presence of Peace

"Hostility and Violence"
(cropped) Photo credit: News Letter of Young Ambassadors for Peace (YAP), 2005

We are all different (whether we like it or not). When people cannot tolerate one another morally, culturally, religiously and politically - conflict is sure to happen. In a flat world society of diverse differences, it is an inescapable reality to deal it within the course and flows of time.

Mindanao Island Map

Stipulated with the archaic disputed issue on the endless claim of ancestral domain among Muslim descendants and other Lumad tribes, war and violence becomes the sounding grounds of conflict escalated into real and physical battle. To mention, the besieged city in the central district of Marawi was completely an appalled to residues from the skirmished war between the government forces and the extreme rebels hoisting its ISIS banner to forcibly establish a caliphate state.  The scuffling encounter all began around 2 o’clock at the height of peaceful busy afternoon on the 23^rd of May 2017 while days near ahead approaching the observance of Ramadhan that awaited all Muslims to discern. In a blinked of seconds, it took more than 100 days of violent warring. It was an inordinate gory power play and a bloody power game display in between of who should remain the strongest and who should stands the mightiest to rule the frontline conurbation. In that dumbfounding presence of extremely violence, thousands of innocent people who lives in peace and whom only wanted to live peacefully were in outcry exodus and forced to flee from their homes in order to escape the trepidations.  Many were trapped from their flats and undergrounds as the weapons whacked in over a crisscross directions while grunting in fears.

The people of Marawi felt disconsolate as they failed to protect the peace they sow and propagate over the years. In spite of the Islamic teachings of peace hinged to their religious belief, it failed to crackdown somebody else’s extreme ideologies of another principle whom happened to embrace (quite) the same belief. For me, city that is for Bangsamoro taking over by another faction of extreme Bangsamoro revolutionaries is not ideally Islamic. Hence, it arises grueling and exhausting conflict if with a differing principles and concepts of implementing peace clash out of context. But it happened…

The presence of peace center institute and other various peace groups and young organizations were certainly disheartened and feel depressed by the abrupt eruption of war.  All were burn into ashes in the fires of human-made hell. From internal conflict to grave violence certainly destroy the lasting peace they envision and hope for to attain of. 

And, the fact remain that many were internally displaced. It further harmed by the realities of aggravating negative judgement and rejections. Thinking and treating each other differently came to play. It created an obscure wall of prejudices. It lead to a sheer suspicions and distrusts.  It drew an invisible partition line to discriminate one another.  It silently gave new birth to hatred and abhorrence and thus grow steadily.

Peace in the Presence of Conflict

"Power play"
(cropped) Photo credit: News Letter of Young Ambassadors for Peace (YAP), 2005

The philosophy of culture of peace has always embedded with a struggle to impart its principles to the new generation. But its ideology remain resilient in the face of the immerging conflicting diverse society.

I was born and raised in Islamic of City Marawi as a Non-Muslim with parents both worked in military government. I took my formative years in the said place but peace education was not included in the formative mainstream curriculum to be taught at all levels in school from primary to secondary and even in tertiary (although there’s a specific subject offered for college students but remain an optional/elective). Though from GMRC (Good Morals and Right Conduct) to Values Education can be the key and can play a major role in shaping the morals of a child into fine conduct such as the value respect, the concept of peace was not formally introduce in the school system to prepare the perceptive learning keenness of schoolers. In my opinion, it’s ironic to think (at that time) for a Laboratory School designed to mold a diverse people with different cultural affinity and ethnicity to come together, and by its goal, to understand each other and yet no mainstream form of peace education being taught…

Christians and other non-Muslims were considered minorities in the turf of the so-called minority groups in the Philippines. It comprise more or less 10 percent within the particular whole. Both in school and in the community, we strive living together harmoniously and peacefully. Just like in an ordinary normal goings in a society, we tend to follow the nature of system in sharing both our religious beliefs and our cultural and ethnic practices in the hopes to reconcile the common grounds of finding ourselves to live in “peace”.

Just like in a normal Filipino society, thus, we observed the norms of behavior. To recall, as growing preschoolers and primary pupils then, we were taught in school the basic knowledge on learning the basic foundation of education but again, none specific mainstream design for peace education. With this thought system, we were naturally incline to embrace competitions to one another. A healthy-competition (they say).  Though, we study together, play games together (the usual way), and sometimes share our snacks and foods together, yet our hesitations of asking both our differences remain in our thoughts as well as our judgement about what kind of people they are to us and inversely what kind of people we are to them. Asking parents the “abouts” of them were our last hitting grounds. But the basic concepts of “who and what they are” were not as the same as the other one. Partly, parents were also bombarded with mixed notions and dissimilar impressions. But mostly were negative connotations towards them and other. These lead children to think contrarily. Such difference build barriers of divisiveness come to form stereotyping.  It creates conflicting issues both positive and negative that potentially polarizes the thoughts of learning. In some instances that we were involved in an irreconcilable issues, and sometimes engaged in fist fights, we tend to sow a growing hatred in the minds and hearts with one another even if it was resolved then.  It develop prejudices. It cultivates a perceptive discriminatory thoughts. And this could potentially lead to misunderstanding. Worst is into violence. Thus, in spite of the presence of peace, conflict thoughts rule the human psyche.

The Challenge to Culture of Peace

"The young and once young"
(cropped) Photo credit: News Letter of Young Ambassadors for Peace (YAP), 2005

The so-called Mindanao Conflict has been handed down from generations to generation. And that Lasting Peace is everyone’s hope to achieve. However, obviously, it has not been completely resolved and still far from real. Peace maybe sound so elusive but even in its slightest possibility, it is hard to kill. But sustaining the culture of peace is financially exhausting.  And, it’s quite expensive to fill its concordance. That’s for real. Yes, the intervention of the government is essential by institutionalizing peace inititives and the needs of the people toward progress and sustaining development. But the interference of these frameworks being laid and mounted upon is just a half-part of the whole. That, the work of the “other half” and its success depends on the people on how they will protect and sustain it. Would that be enough? Will it really work? 

The issue of political practices is undoubtedly an enormous hindrance in implementing the plans and programs of peace towards development. The mere fact that the leaders and people behind the traditional politics are hounded with issues of power hunger and corruption that aggravates the problem of unabated social injustices. It’s a receding abortive factor that could principally precede unsuccessful endeavor towards progress. And, that even with the great efforts of attaining its goal and purpose for lasting peace, everything that is being work hard for in achieving it will just be futile, put into shame and in vain (sayang lang)…

Moreover, the growing community in social media network insentiently intoxicate the perceptive views of the "netizens". Irresponsible use and or overuse trends and tend to be the leading factors in spreading fake news and lies, thus, takes over the consciousness of an individual being.  Disinformation and misinformation creates more avenues to think and ruminate differently with others. It disintegrate people to people rapport. Its relationship slopes downward as social media like Facebook and the likes has become the annex virtual sphere where most people spent more time often with than in the realm. Thus, creates “cybernetic culture” where the essence of realism turn to “Animeism”.

"Sharing stories of struggles and success..."
From left: Saidamen, Dr. Matuan, Helena, Zakiya, Me, and Chester
(cropped) Photo credit: News Letter of Young Ambassadors for Peace (YAP), 2005

I got awareness on the idea of peace from joining and engaging myself through interfaith dialogue groups and movements. And it’s quite a humbling and fulfilling experience. Yet, it was a roller coaster journey ride. To say the least, working for peace is always confederated with great challenges. I was once there, idealistic then. The struggle to make a difference for peace is real. The longer we give effort, peace seems hard to grasp and easily slip away on our hands. It was tough and tiring yet challenging enough to tolerate and endure the hardships and disappointments while sustaining the momentum of your commitment to peace. Even for a certain group’s internal relationship also crosses and clouded with conflicting issues due to its gainsaying views and differences. That’s for sure. But the value of respect prevails of both parties involved, which is quite another challenge and relatively a test of friendship, amity and alliance. But above all, the possibility of attaining true peace and justice is firm, unwavering, contemporarily existing and doable or feasible. It is real, though a continuing process.  

With the looming biases and prejudices, issues on discrimination and abuse of power from the remnants of the war in Marawi City, there’s again, a clarion call to give peace a chance. It’s an expensive move yet very indispensable. Peace groups and social justice movements can play a significant role in molding people whom dealing with struggles of conflict in grassroots level. It’s not about spending astronomical amount of money, it’s all about responding to the problem by means of resolving conflict effectively and in a non-violent way.  Talk estimation or exchanges of opinion is important but enclose with actions, thus, vital and essential. Be it in an innovative approach and or in creative means through sports, arts, music, community service, street education, empowerment and social awareness, and etc. teaching peace can make a difference in building a more peaceful and harmonious community. Burning their biases and prejudicial outlooks, melting down their perceptive discriminating thoughts, and giving them the right tools on dealing the issue of power struggle can simply build a society of culture of peace. It can shapes perception, it changes things toward positive life as it works for everyone else’s who needs it.  Intensive yet practical approach of education is crucial in transforming the issues of human psyche from inner conflict to inner peace. As to how, it remains a challenge. The possibility is limitless.

But still the reality constantly linger - that peace and conflict is inseparable. Both always come together. You and I knows that, because we personally have our own conflicting issues and (dark) stories within.  Day by day, we are dealing with it, confronting it. And, at times difficult to bear and endure with. Thus, peace is susceptible to conflict because of individual’s own sufferings and other’s differences with underlying own sufferings as well. On the other hand, it is a mistake to avoid conflict because conflict per se opens an avenue to challenge the problems and struggles toward positive change. It gives an opportunity in learning more about yourself as well as others too. Hence, peace and conflict intertwined in between and come in both ends.

From the Blogger's Desk: " Please note that I am no longer connected or affiliated to any peace movements or any existing civic organizations related to peace advocacy. The intention of this blog post is for personal purposes only. Some of the photos above were grabbed from the news letter of a sponsored international organization I was once involved with.  Thank you

Simply Work of Art From the Heart

"The Lady Without a Face"
Artist/Painter: Claire Gallo Artajo

"It is with faith to paint the color of love"

"The Lady without a Face". This simple piece of painting got my attention at my friend's wedding day displayed at their dinner's reception area. At first, I didn't noticed it until the end of the program, although I took a photo of the couple's presidential table before the ceremony started. Claire, the painter of the faceless lady is the bride's sister. The glamorous looking reception were curtained with her masterpieces  as part of her sister's wedding motif. I was in awe with amazement not only that it's the first to attend and witnessed of such exquisite garden wedding, it was my first time to glare such aesthetically and artistically prepared reception. Very raw, real and authentic. It was full of heart poured with so much love. I was blessed in gracing the invitation of the couple's request to serenade their most beautiful day of their lives. But giving the painting to me the day after the celebration was the happiest and  priceless day of my life. It was the most expensive gift I have ever received. Not with numerical figures stipulated on it perhaps, but simply because of the time and the devotion or labor of love of the artist spent on to her artwork.  

I thought the "faceless" painting will only remain a picture in my mind. Now, it will be in my hands, hanged in my wall,  forever. I will treasure it until the end, till it last. 

Thank you Claire. 

WORLD OF MUSIC SING IN US, LIVES IN ME

"The Heart of a Music is in me and that the Voice is in my Heart"

The gift of music resonates the heart to those who love it back

If we try to look back the time of the music’s past, there's so much stories to tell on how it evolved. There could be no other sources other than various sounds that echoes the open wide and hollows in the world under. Though as how it is of today and how it breaks through to the world, its oeuvre is still quite a mystery. But someone, somewhere must have had thought it first... Whatever it maybe, miracle or invented, still a million thanks indeed that music exist. And, one thing is certain, music from the beginning of time is constantly growing, moving, waving and rock and rolling in the flows of time.  

Music is powerful. Too puissant that sometimes manipulate deep emotions surpassing common sense. But understanding music comes with reason. A reason that only music lover alone knows. It’s profoundly personal and yet almost impossible to explain. True. Sometimes it defies empathy yet still comes with reason. Nonetheless it brings pleasure, satisfaction and ecstasy. Be it science or a mere extraordinary phenomenon, it doesn’t matter. Because the moment we hear the whispering tune and sound in the wilderness of silence, the melodic “yonderings” flow along in us in every way and possesses us till we passionately fall in love with it. And, that passion and love remain. Never cease. Never ends - We ask even for more.

There are millions of music lovers around and it resonate unbounded stories. At times, it inspire us. As to why Filipinos have so much passion and love to music, one definite answer comes to mind – Filipinos are musically attached and melodiously inseparable with. It’s nothing ordinary. Built-in for normal goings because music is anywhere and everywhere. If you are a Filipino and in the Philippines be in metro or country-side, you know what I mean. As for its love being abstract and intangible, it’s too ardently immeasurable to grasp and hold to define its meaning. Even library of normative science is near impossible to explain it. Though, studies suggests that specific music DNA called PH-13 (click  link: Stanford University) run in most (Filipino) singers, it must have sounded so exceptionally special that other kind (nationality) might feel envy. If it’s true, then Filipinos are really that good. However, as to this writing, it is best not to go further on the musical genomes inherently prepared for me and or for us. After all, music knows no boundaries for any auricles of human kind.  

Croon to the tune of forever...

The love of music and singing is nothing out of ordinary. As a diverse song lover, music is not only for “eargasm”. It somehow tips to play an essential role that influences our mood or emotion, our life, and partly how we have become. And, how it play shapes our cognizance and it becomes a culture - a way of life, that likely befits the daily normal going because silence is quite deafening for the posse lovers of music. It is somewhat torturing to imagine if music is unheard in a day or two. Just picturing a world without humming or chanting and cascading voice of singing, gee it’s quite boring; without instruments harmonizing, it’s almost dull and uninspiring; without string strumming, fret clipping and chain of chords plucking by the frolicking digits, surely the melody and harmony is quite dreary. Indeed, life without music could be uninteresting. Totally uncool.

These days, revolutionized and innovative music gadgets and its "apps" is quite a wide trend for many millennials. It’s almost impossible for anyone who don’t owned one. Phones and androids are already horde with favorite song list to play for a day (or night) while doing busy works and or so.     

Seemingly, for most of us, it’s quite difficult to translate our own sense of music into strictly measured musical scores. The music hinge in me playing is only out of passion. It is just one another ordinary story of you to me who only loves music in an ordinary or peculiar way. The half-string difference is, we live in our own two separate worlds of the sound of music… And, as to how music made me half of my whole brings good days of the future past.

Psalm 23

The gift of voice certainly brought me closer to people who happened to be music lovers and through the years go by, they became (my) friends. You can connect to what you can't express to speak. But through the songs where words apply in the art of singing, the heart truly speak.  With music in the midst, life’s journey becomes solely colorful and wonderful. But how music got my interest is really quite personal. And, perhaps just like another same old hopeless romantic ordinary story.

Born as Gen-X in year 80's, it started all in nursery rhymes and children songs in a cartridge record for stereo sound component. From "Rock-a-By-Baby" to "Jack & Jill" to "Humpty-Dumpty" and lots of many. It was an epic music of yesterday’s eons for a growing child yearning how to sing them fondly from the heart. But back then, I grew up to wind-up with stereos or audio sing-along system were it was considered an important electronic appliance should every household family must possessed. It was a loved treasure. And back- tracking that cartridge was quite a trend children’s play.

"Music lover before me..."

My parents love music especially my late-father who loved it more than I do. From cartridges to vinyl records, the music cases and drawers were loaded with classic and standard songs of Paul Anka, Neil Sedaka, Engelbert Hemperdinck and Tom Jones. More so to the pop disco collections of ABBA, the soaring soul voice of Diana Ross, the head-bang rock and rolling labels of Jon Bon Jovi, to the maudlin songs and mawkish lyrics of the infamous Air Supply and then including the many forgotten-iesh.  (chuckles).


   

"Bonding splurge and spree Videoke"
Photo Credit: Brian Quiño

Videoke (Video Karaoke) were mutually shared in every celebration. From christenings to birthdays, to special community gatherings like "fiesta” or group of friends unwinding. It becomes customary or a tradition. Like my friends’ common expression, “otomatik na (it’s automatic)!” For some weird reason, it feels a bit pressure for somebody to throw a party without music. It’s almost a taboo that you need to prevent. If you don’t have anything karaoke to offer, then it’s seriously a boring party if not doom one.  Looking back on my late-dad’s days, Video-K in VHS players were the seeking finds amongst of his companions when during drinking day or night session or party at the house. Since list of songs on VHS tapes were limited, song performers would just made some reservation notice in advance on a particular song until it’s their turn to sing. I was on my early teens, then. I could recall that some of them would site-scrambled whenever they like the song even if it’s not their turn yet.  

Recalling that, I remember Frank Sinatra’s “My Way”. An urban legend says that it’s a curse song for Filipinos. Anyone who sang it is believed to be at his “final curtain” or something bad will happened after singing that song. In some grave instances, if you don't give justice to the song (i.e My Way) or any song while many are listening, you can sang it on "your way" but make it serious and break-a-leg. (Sorry for the pun. )

Nowadays, Video-K are normally everywhere. From malls to resorts, to bars and to typical restaurants, it is offered in night or in broad day lights. Singing in public is not restricted, you are even encourage. Bound to sing and to perform (imagine pressure).

The world knows that one of the best choirs can be found in the Philippines. That Philippine Madrigal Singers aka (click link: “MADZ" ) is the epitome of vocal greatness. They are called National Artists for nothing if they don’t possessed the virtuously angelic and beatific voices transcend to heaven and tend to silence the cathedral of eavesdroppers. Their voices can conquer the best choirs in the world. 

Choir Group: College days...

Chorale groups can be found anywhere in every corners of the country. From churches to schools to local towns down to small remote barrios. Choir group exists and organized. culturally-bound, a way of life. 

Choir has a special place in my heart. It became my basic foundation on learning the fundamentals of singing, in a Filipino way. Other than developing my humble vocal skills, it’s were I began to understand, appreciate and value music more the way I do now. Technically, vocal assignments required in a chorale is not as easy as like a radio playing the songs. Being passionate of learning how to sing, putting some extra effort of energy, so much emotion, practice, time, commitment and dedication are normal going things. Then so we can solely connect our hearts to unify and synchronize the four voices (tenor, bass, alto and soprano).  Though with no fundamental knowledge and formal training in music about reading musical notes and other musical signs and symbols, scores and or sort of codes, it all goes down to the trainer and conductor to tune-in on as to how it should soundly intoned to make sense of to the musical piece. Voice quality and listening are the main keys after all - We all do have those.

Above: Choir Group Practice
Below: Music Seminar
Photo: Prelature St. Mary's in Marawi,
"those were the days..."

But taking you all to the unorthodox way of singing in a group, the choir I was once belong with from the humble church was a little bit of unconventional. Without the presence of formal trainer called “the cantor”, just an acoustic guitars, a classic tambourine and some jaw harp bamboo-made instrument called “kubing” served as our main instruments to harmonize with the melody of our songs and chants during celebrations of the Eucharist. We tend to craft and innovate melodious vocal accompaniments to create new texture. We dotingly call it “second voice”. In effect, it generates new form and version from the traditional eucharistic hymns so as long as it does not tend to taint the music or not to chant it inappropriately and or gravely.

(Throwback) - Practice Session: Choir Group, Youth Ministry

(Throwback): Youth Ministry -Choir Group

Besides bonding galore, the fondest moment of being part of the choir ministry were during the yuletide seasons: house to house “Christmas caroling” in the community. Songs and music were more fun and full of spirit. We can rock and roll the songs in full swing with all our hearts. With the guitars strumming, we can all connect. That’s how passionate we were. There’s more Christmas in all the months of “ber”. It’s only in the Philippines! This is one of the reasons music is everywhere in the Philippines. Because singing in wide open along the streets is not forbidden.

Reloaded Rewind Serenade

Not to brag though, but in my own right I’m at best in singing (well, I’m getting old and that so I “was”). And, it lead me sometimes (by request) to entertain crooning a family or a friend’s wedding, birthday and some other intimate fetes and events.  Gracing to chant the "Psalms" during Eucharist back years, was a great learning experience on how to connect yourself to the words of the song. For majority of Filipinos, it’s nothing out of ordinary. It becomes a tradition. I bet that in every special occasion, there’s a relative or a friend of the family who can sing very well. 

For some, it’s business. Making money out of serenading. For singers, especially those professionals, I concur of having that great satisfaction and fulfillment  inside after rendering a song or entertaining the guests and listeners. It's about the pride and joy that it felt being admired and appreciated with your vocal prowess. That's got to be the feeling... 

Strumming my heart with my finger

On a personal level, singing has been the preferred medium of my expression (lot of Filipinos do the same). I have my human relation with the harmony of the music I live to know. I’m totally inseparable to it as it became part of my system through out my daily routine; in every mornings, in doing household chores, in kitchen when cooking, in bathroom when bathing, singing while with my adorable dogs playing, and in evening before sleeping, yes I’m a human -MP3. And when I’m free and alone, singing has been a friend to lean on. With the guitar on my side plus whimsical songs running in my head, it’s more fun to harmonize. Indeed singing warmth and lightens the feeling. Yes, it gives comfort when life feel troubled and strain. Can bring serenity and calmness in the mood especially songs that allow our searching soul to transport back to the past. How I am so attached with music is a proof of my deep relationship with my own sound of music. Because of music, sometimes, I translate my emotions into collective words that deeply resides and inhabits within me.

Ever since,

music has been my first love,

my first best friend,

my dear life, dearest to my heart,

a lover when loveless

a healer when heart is ailing in sadness

A rock ‘n rollin when life is dark and somber

Nothing beats the feeling of joy when songs dwell within the soul

It adds color when voice floats to adorn

It gives more life and jubilation when it rhymes to the tune.

Even the voice can no longer intone within the throne,

Blood scram throughout my throat,

And only one thing is left and that is the love to listen,

Two-thin drums but only one is persistent.

But never should I be tired of listening unto,

Even if the voice is no longer be heard too,

In the end, music is always a friend, a lover, a life saver. 
–bchuy-

Cropped Photo: Battle of Band Competition - "Music Knows No Age"
Link Video: Gramp's on Keyboards

While joining a singing search for finding the best lungs of steel is the bread and butter for many Filipinos, “Battle of the Bands” is the blood life amongst the best talents and musicians in the metro or in the countryside who wants to follow the infamous steps of EraserHeads, Parokya ni Edgar, RiverMaya, Kamikaze, Sida-A and lots of many local bands. Or foreign legendary superstar bands in the likes of Jon Bon Jovi, Journey, Firehouse, Metallica, Nirvana, Linkin’ Park and more. I have not experienced such any battle competitions though I’d been part of a group band then, but “Battle of the Bands” is one of my favorites to witness with. You got to see the real talents, the intensity, diversity and at times the hardcore entertainers and musicians’. No age limit and does not discriminate. In proper battles, you’ll get to see the commitment, you feel the emotions of the performers from both the singers and the band instrumentalists. So damn good freakin’ real and authentic. Timing is everything and coordination is indispensable. The whole thing must be synchronized and soundly fused. Maybe it’s a clash of who will victorious and claim to stand the last who sounds the best. But, the main goal is the showcase of great musical talents flaring-up entertainment value.

Battle of the Bands Full-Reloaded

"Rock out load!"

Compared to other countries, Filipino local music bands have limited resources on devices, gadgets and other electronic contraptions especially in small cities or towns (I guess). But what made Pinoy bands astoundingly different is their great love, their incomparable huge passion, and full blown commitment to the music piece being performed. That's their broad secret weapon up on its sleeves. You’ll get to be amazed and surprised by such promising underground bents. As spectator, the adrenaline is exceptionally high rushing all over! While swarming with the waves of the "jammers", it’s definitely a riot head banging and Rock and Rollin’ battle party. For sure, a full-blown real clash of talents. Electrifying! This is another Pinoy's musical flavor that hasn’t known to most. Yet, it’s another big thing a Filipino have that sets apart from others for being really good in music.

"Tama na 'yan inuman na..."

"Barkada Sesyon" (clique session) is my favorite because music collide us on the same ground. It’s a day or night with friends that shouldn’t miss for every music dude or so you’ll miss the fun and the ‘ma jammin’ red-hot loud. From video-k to acoustic, it automatically sets ahead. With only guitars just around the nook, it’s all jammed-pack with unlimited spree of acoustic songs. From classic to current, from love or tear jerking 'sentis' (sentimental) to hyper cracking rock and rolling melodies, and song after song after song for cozy party. Someone, if not everybody, in the gang would lead to sing-out loud glory. Sky is the limit. No language barrier, no holds barred. Although not without something to drink like brew cold beers or something liquor in distilled, it would be totally incomplete and definitely boring. While in it, it washes away the shyness belting-out the song in a performance level. It feels good.

This so-called “jamming” session is integrally rooted long ages from our forefathers in rural folks. Likely after a long arduous and strenuous day of labor in the farms and or fields, farmers alike would gather around to relax, drinking local wine called “tuba”(fermented coconut juice) and sing out to their best with the guitar’s accompaniment - an old school way to bond and unwind.

Nowadays, we fondly presage it as "jam-jam" or “chill-chill”. Besides harmony, the rapport created by music unruffled with musically inclined friends lift up the collective mood and liven the little party crew. Jam-packed with music, our sense of closeness and togetherness is preserve. Intact, we remain.

Always got new Friends made of music and they made me feel I’m home,

I think the heart and life of Music is forever bound in each on every inch of me and you,

Thank you for the joyful experience and the wonderful journey full of jingles and songs,

Songs that connect our hearts down to the very core of our souls.

Every voice, beat, strum and pluck creates melody and harmony to every pitch perfect note that floats.

Let our love of music defy the odds to every step of the way amidst battle we solely face and fought. 

–bchuy-

For Filipinos, music becomes integral part of life. We love music in all genre. And, I am one of the many living proofs among the plethora of songsters and cornucopia of music lovers. After all, the world of music sing in us, lives in me. 

... and the last song will always be forever in me  -bchuy-

Simply Tagged-Along in Taguilon’s Floating Cottages

Taguilan''s Floating Cottages, Daptan City, Zamboanga del Norte 

Native canoe's wharf made of bamboo

Dapitan City in Zamboanga Del Norte offers exciting attraction more than its richness on Spanish history. Dakak, Rizal Shrine and Fantasy Land aside, Taguilon’s floating cottages is a unique place to chill and relax. Tagged along with my elder sibling’s family and her in-laws, everyone feels ecstatic. The place offers an exclusive used of one of the floating huts located in the near harbor where you can enjoy the fun and bonding while sightseeing the mountain rock scenic view and the wide and high green panorama. Swimming is no limit. You can bring your own sumptuous foods, cook or grill some fishes and meats or anything you desire in the cottage’s grilling corner.

the vista: rock mountain
-going to our floating hut

Sight seeing along this spot can be enjoyed to those who love nature.  Its beauty remain incomparable when you truly feel the panoramic presence. Different trees laterally surrounds the mountain edges  which signifies the richness and cleanness of the air and all the environment within.  The floating huts add rainbows to the sparkling sea while the blows of the wind embraces each and everyone for the call  to relax and chill.

Inside the Floating Cottage enough for 20 - 30 people

Jet Ski Riders

While enjoying feasting the eyes to the other side views, some tourists from Dakak Resort surge their jet ski craft  around the area to further savor their speedy and splashing ride. While amazed to their playful joy water runabout, you will have this wanting inside to try this water scooter or comically known as "boatercycle" on how far can drive and be wild. Nevertheless, you will realize that everything you see set for the whole day is already fun too and worth to treasure.

hut's diving board

If you love to dive, the all-huts has each diving board for you to jump and splash under the sea, that is if you know how to swim. But Taguilon's reserved life jackets for safety measure as standard operating operating procedure (SOP) to all tourists who aren't good swimmers and divers.

Taguilon's Floating Cottages is a great place along the sea to breathe fresh air with. If you plan to visit this spot, bring along your family or friends to have some great time and create memories. After all, life is inevitably made to make unforgettable shared memory and live life to the fullest with the fullness of your heart.