▼ TREND

This was written by my  very friend. She wrote this when she was struggling with her boyfriend and I would like this to share this with you.

Bago pa man ako dumating sa buhay mo ay nariyan na sya sa iyo

Tuwing anuman ang nadarama mo

Siya din ang dahilan ng mga tagumpay mo

Nirerespeto ko lahat ng kagustohan mo

Sinusubukan kong mahalin ang mga ito

Maging oras para sa sarili ay inilalaan na para rito

Ngunit mahal...

Huwag naman sanang ganito

Huwag mong ipilit sa akin ang mga bagay na hindi naayon sa kagustohan ko

Dahil paunti unti ay lumalayo na ang kalooban ko sayo

At ayokong umabot sa punto na masabi ko sayo

"Mahal,ayoko na pagod na ang puso ko sa pagmamahal sayo...

▼ NATURE(POEM)

~MyOde to Nature~

Stretch above land, into their peak, 
It is the sky, they constantly seek. 
In the far distance, we notice their height, 
A view from the top - spectacular site!

Closely positioned, to form a range, 
Human eyes, won't notice them change. 
Not a prisoner, to immediate time, 
Challenges many; unforgiving climb.

So much more, beyond their beauty, 
Sheltering species, that is their duty, 
Mountains are members, of the nature we know, 
Way at the top, they often have snow.

≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎ ❀  ✿ ❁ ≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎≎ 

I recall being awestruck when I first laid eyes at the beauty of the Rocky Mountains range.I was 12 years old, and it was during a family road trip across Do bong mountain .It was a liberating Canadian experience, that I will never forget.

▼ NATURE(POEM)

Origin

NATURE our fundamental origins

immeasurable worth

Beautiful by default

Born of the earth We abuse and destroy it

Despite it all it gives

But nature is powerful

It surrounds us

It Lives.

▼ NEWS

Dela Rosa: Abducted Korean killed in CrameThe Korean businessman was apparently killed inside Camp Crame, the police headquarters, hours after he was kidnapped in Angeles City

Rappler.com

Published 7:30 PM, January 19, 2017

Updated 2:31 PM, January 20, 2017

CAMP CRAME. The headquarters of the Philippine National Police. File photo

MANILA, Philippines – The chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday, January 19, said South Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo was killed inside the police headquarters, Camp Crame, hours after he was abducted from his home in Angeles City.

"Very angry [and] very offended" was how Director General Ronald dela Rosa described his reaction to the latest development in the case of Jee, who was kidnapped by several men – including police – from his home on October 18, 2016.

Jee's abduction grabbed headlines recently after a news report tagged it as a case of "TokHang for ransom." The cops who kidnapped the Korean apparently used the ongoing war on drugs as a cover, and used a fake arrest warrant to boot.

Jee's wife said her husband's abductors asked for P5 million in ransom – which she paid – weeks after he went missing. They then asked for another P4.5 million.

But it turns out, Jee was long dead by the time his kidnappers asked for the ransom money.

Jee had apparently been strangled to death the same day he was kidnapped. He was then brought to a crematorium in Caloocan City.

Dela Rosa was in Camp Crame, fresh from a days-long trip to Thailand, when Jee was kidnapped and brought to the PNP headquarters.

The Anti-Illegal Drugs Group (AIDG) compound is just steps away from the White House, Dela Rosa's official residence. At least one of the cops allegedly involved in the kidnapping, Ricky Sta Isabel, was once assigned to the AIDG.

At least 8 suspects are being eyed by investigators – at least 3 of them active policemen. Another suspect, a retired cop turned barangay official, was the one who apparently owned the crematorium. He has since fled to Canada.

'War on drugs under control'

News of Jee's kidnapping – and cops' subsequent involvement – comes as Philippine police hit the 7th month of a popular but controversial war on drugs. With more than 6,700 deaths linked to the anti-drug campaign – 2,250 of them in police operations and the rest vigilante-style killings – cops have long been under fire.

Dela Rosa and other government officials have fiercely denied that police carry out summary executions.

But Jee's gruesome case has made critics hit the apparent blatant abuse of power and question whether the war on drugs is still under control.

Dela Rosa insists that it is.

"That was not part of the drug war. The term 'TokHang for ransom,' they're just using that to ruin the war on drugs. TokHang is very, very effective and it has led to the surrender and accounting of 1.3 million drug personalities," he said.

Under the "TokHang" operation, cops go from door-to-door, convincing drug users and pushers to surrender. Police claim more than one million people have "surrendered" as a result of the operation, despite the lack of arrest warrants.

Human Rights Watch's Asia Division Deputy Director Phelim Kine, in a statement released on Thursday, said Jee's death is "an ominous indicator of the breakdown of rule of law under President Rodrigo Duterte."

Dela Rosa belittled this observation.

"Is it just now under President Duterte that a Korean died in the country? For all you know, let's be honest, there was more crime before the President came. The police who are part of syndicates but we didn't know because the internal cleansing of police was not that intense. No offense to the past PNP chiefs. I don't mean to offend but they could not be strong because they were not backed up by their president," said the PNP chief in a mix of English and Filipino.

A war on drugs was among President Rodrigo Duterte's key campaign promises during the 2016 elections. Duterte has also said in the past that he will defend cops as long as they're working in the name of the drug war. But the President drew flak after he defended several police officers accused of murdering a mayor with links to illegal drugs.

Asked how Duterte himself reacted to Jee's case and if he had any specific instructions, Dela Rosa said: "Amin na lang. Galit si Presidente (That's between the two of us. The President is angry)." – Rappler.com

The day of reckoning on this bunch of alleged perpetrators of Plan Tokhang Ransom has begun and we hope the court hearing will be expedite to give justice to the surviving family of the victim!

▼ NEWS

A Letter From A Korean 

This was written years ago from a Korean who has a heart, ripped to shreds for our country. Here is an excerpt from his letter.

"My Short Essay About The Philippines.

by Jaeyoun Kim. (김재연)

Filipinos always complain about the corruption in the Philippines. Do you really think the corruption is the problem of the Philippines?

I do not think so. I strongly believe that the problem is the lack of love for the Philippines

Let me first talk about my country, Korea. It might help you understand my point. After the Korean War, South Korea was one of the poorest countries in the world.

Koreans had to start from scratch because entire country was destroyed after the Korean War, and we had no natural resources.

Koreans used to talk about the Philippines, for Filipinos were very rich in Asia. We envy Filipinos. Koreans really wanted to be well off like Filipinos. Many Koreans died of famine. My father & brother also died because of famine. Korean government was very corrupt and is still very corrupt beyond your imagination, but Korea was able to develop dramatically because Koreans really did their best for the common good with their heart burning with patriotism.

Koreans did not work just for themselves but also for their neighborhood and country.

Education inspired young men with the spirit of patriotism.

40 years ago, President Park took over the government to reform Korea. He tried to borrow money from other countries, but it was not possible to get a loan and attract a foreign investment because the economic situation of South Korea was so bad. Korea had only three factories. So, President Park sent many mine workers and nurses to Germany so that they could send money to Korea to build a factory. They had to go through horrible experience.

In 1964, President Park Chung-hee visited Germany to borrow money. Hundred of Koreans in Germany came to the airport to welcome him and cried there as they saw the President Park. They asked to him, “President, when can we be well off? That was the only question everyone asked to him. President Park cried with them and promised them that Korea would be well off if everyone works hard for Korea, and the President of Germany got the strong impression on them and lent money to Korea .

So, President Park was able to build many factories in Korea. He always asked Koreans to love their country from their heart.

Many Korean scientists and engineers in the USA came back to Korea to help developing country because they wanted their country to be well off. Though they received very small salary, they did their best for Korea. They always hoped that their children would live in well off country.

My parents always brought me to the places where poor and physically handicapped people live. They wanted me to understand their life and help them. Have you cried for the Philippines? I have cried for my country several times. I also cried for the Philippines because of so many poor people.

I have been to the New Bilibid prison. What made me sad in the prison were the prisoners who do not have any love for their country. They go to mass and work for church. They pray everyday.

However, they do not love the Philippines. I talked to two prisoners at the maximum-security compound, and both of them said that they would leave the Philippines right after they are released from the prison. They said that they would start a new life in other countries and never come back to the Philippines.

Many Koreans have a great love for Korea so that we were able to share our wealth with our neighborhood. The owners of factory and company distributed their profit to their employees fairly so that employees could buy what they needed and saved money for the future and their children.

When I was in Korea, I had a very strong faith and wanted to serve in a church. However, when I came to the Philippines, I completely lost my faith. I was very confused when I saw many unbelievable situations in the Philippines. Street kids always make me sad, and I see them everyday.

The Philippines is the most “religious” country in Asia, they say. But there are too many poor people here. People go to church every Sunday to pray, but nothing has been changed.

My parents came to the Philippines last week and saw this situation. They told me that Korea was much poorer than the present Philippines when they were young. They are so sorry that there are so many beggars and street kids. When we went to Pagsanjan, I forced my parents to take a boat because it would be fun.

However, they were not happy after taking a boat. They said that they would not take the boat again because they were sympathized the boatmen, for the boatmen were very poor and had a small frame. Most of people just took a boat and enjoyed it. But, my parents did not enjoy it because of love for them.

My mother who has been working for a church since I was very young told me that if we just go to church without changing ourselves, we are not Christians indeed. Faith should come with action. She added that I have to love Filipinos and do good things for them because all of us are same and have received a great love from God. I want Filipinos to love their neighborhood and country as much as they love God so that the Philippines will be well off.

I am sure that love is the keyword, which Filipinos should remember. We cannot change the sinful structure at once. It should start from person. Love must start in everybody, in a small scale and have to grow. A lot of things happen if we open up to love. Let’s put away our prejudices and look at our worries with our new eyes.

If you have a child, teach them how to love the Philippines. Teach them why they have to love their neighborhood and country.

That’s all I really want to ask you Filipinos."

▼ TUTORIALS

Learn Korean Phrases

I wanna teach you how to speak korean language but I'm not good in teaching that's why I only have few phrases here. Hope it helps you in watching your fave KDaramas

Saying "Hello" in Korean:

Annyeong - Hello (informal)
Annyeong haseyo - Hello (formal, to show respect to your elders)

Yeoboseyo - Hello (used when answering the phone)

Annyeong hashimnikka - Good afternoon / Good evening / How are you? (formal)
Annyonghi jumushipsiyo - Good night (formal)

Mannaseo bangawoyo - Pleased to meet you (informal)
Mannaseo bangapseumnida - Pleased to meet you (formal)


Saying "Good Bye" in Korean:

Annyeonghi gyeseyo - Goodbye (said when you are leaving)
Annyeonghi gaseyo - Goodbye (said when you are staying)

Annyeonghi gashibshio - Goodbye
Chalga - Goodbye

Nae-il man-nayo - See you tomorrow
Jaritsuh (Jar-it-suh: slowly said) - Take care

▼ TUTORIALS

10 Most Amazing Things to do in Seoul

I was born in South Korea and lived there for almost 13 years before I came here in the Philippines. I want to share with you the beauty of Korea since lots of Filipinos loves my country that's why I put together the following list of the “10 Most Amazing Things to do in Seoul.” Hopefully this will inspire you to come out here and experience Korea culture!. So here it is hope you come here anytime soon KOrea will be very grateful to meet you!

01 | WANDER AROUND GYEONGBOK PALACE

This is Korea's most well-known and primer royal palace. It was originally built in the late 14th Century, but a fire burned it down and left the space empty for nearly 3 centuries, until it was reconstructed in 1867.

Admission: Pay only 3,000 won ($3USD) to enter and you'll get access to explore everywhere, including the museum towards the back. The palace is enormous and there is a lot of interesting/cultural things to check out.

Give yourself at least one or two hours to adventure around. It's location at Gwanghwamun Station is conveniently located next to Seoul's other tourist attractions, such as the famous King Sejong Statue and the Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Photo Credit © liddybits | CC2.0

02 | DIVERSIFY YOURSELF ON THE STREETS OF ITAEWON

Itaewon is the foreigner district of Seoul. If you are ever craving some delicious food from all over the world, or a wild and fun atmosphere, then Itaewon is your best option. This lively district is home cafés and shops that sell everything from locally hand-made goods to tailored suits, to fancy jewelry and Korean pottery.

At night, Itaewon comes alive with it's huge variety of bars and clubs where you will meet people from all over the world. You can also buy all of your Korean souvenirs for your family and friends from street vendors. Don't miss out on the happenin' scene in Itaewon!

03 | CHECK OUT THE VIEW FROM SEOUL TOWER

Seoul tower, also known as Namsam tower, dominates the Seoul skyline and it can be seem from all parts of the city.

Sitting 240 meters high on top of a mountain, this tower is the highest point in the entire city.

To get to the top of the tower, you will have to ride a cable car up the mountain and then walk up to the base of the tower.

Admission tickets are 12,000 won ($12USD) to go to the top. Inside the tower features a gift shop, two restaurants and four (!!) observation decks.

From the top deck, you will get a breathtaking 360° view of Seoul. Don't worry if you can't make the tower during the daytime, because the view is just as amazing at night!

04 | GET LOST EXPLORING BUKCHON HANOK VILLAGE

Located in between two palaces - Gyeongbok and Changdeok - this traditional Korean village has a long and exciting history. The area is preserved to show off the 600 year-old urban environment, which is composed of many small alleys and traditional wooden houses. Bukchon Village is widely considered as one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the world.

Stroll along the street and you will run into small courtyards, cafés, art galleries and restaurants. Add Bukchon Village to the top of your list, because it's a must-visit place while you are in Seoul.

Btw, Sab stayed in a Hanok Village in Changdeok - if you're interested to experience a stay in a traditional Korean Hanok, go check out her post!

Photo Credit © Ludovic Tristan | CC2.0

05 | GET CULTURED IN THE INSADONG DISTRICT

Located in the heart of Seoul, Insadong is a district where you can buy traditional goods and soak up Korean culture. At one time, Insadong was the largest markets for antiques and artwork in Korea.

There is one main road with alleys down each side. You will find everything from art galleries, traditional restaurants, coffee shops, arts & crafts booths, Korean sculptures, souvenir shops, museums, teahouses and more.

Insadong is a popular place for both locals and tourists, and it's one of my favorite places to explore around Seoul. Sometimes, you will see Korean traditional performances, festivals or shows on the main street. You can't miss out on the culture and fun at Insadong.

Photo Credit © riNux | CC2.0

06 | WALK ALONG THE CHEONGGYECHEON STREAM

Running through downtown Seoul, this man-made stream is over 8 kilometers (5 miles) long! It opened up in 2005 and cost nearly 1 BILLION USD dollars to complete. Along the stream is modern recreational space for people to walk along and hang out. It is remarkably quiet because the stream is located more than 15 feet below the street level.

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Along the stream, you will find several waterfalls art galleries and many overhead bridges. It's also a pretty romantic place, so don't be surprised to see many couples holding hands

Photo Credit © Chelsea Marie Hicks | CC2.0

07 | GO BAR HOPPING IN HONGDAE

I am convinced that Hongdae is the best concentrated area for nightlife in the entire city, and that is saying a lot for my announced #1 Party City in the World. Hongdae itself is known for its urban arts, indie music culture and entertainment, because it is located in the midst of a few massive Universities. At night, this area turns electric and is overflowing with young, energetic people.

There are more bars and clubs than I can count, and nothing closes until the sun has risen the next morning. After the night out, be sure to get some delicious Korean food from one of the street vendors or restaurants that stay open 24 hours. If you have only one night to party in Seoul, you must go to Hongdae and experience this incredible scene.

08 | VISIT THE FISH MARKET

If you want an extra fishy experience, then head over to the famous Noryangjin Fish Market. At this massive market, all of the fish are alive and swimming in the tanks, which makes them as fresh as can be. This place is chaotic and it's not your ordinary fish market.

At Noryangjin, you will negotiate the vendor for your preferred price of the fish, and once it's sold, they will immediately spear the fish and walk you to a nearby restaurant where your fish will be cooked and served for you to enjoy.

My favorite fish to eat is the white snow crab, which is incredible fresh and delicious. Even if you don't eat fish, it's still an experience to walk around here!

09 | PLAY WITH THE KITTIES IN A CAT CAFÉ

"What the heck is a cat café" you're asking? Let me explain: A cat café is a public space where people can come and spend a few hours with a bunch of cute kitties. People can play with them, feed the cats or just watch them sleeping (which they do a lot!).

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A visit to a cat cafè is definitely only for people who aren't allergic and into cats! Sabrina visited several cat cafés during her visit in Seoul and wrote a blog post about it. If you want to see pictures and videos from the cat café, head over to her blog post A day in a Cat Café in Seoul.

10 | TRY A KOREAN BBQ

Korean BBQ is the more traditional meal that you will find all around Korea. All of these restaurants are very similar, where you'll sit down at a table with a fire grill in the middle, and then you get to cook your marinated beef (or pork) how you like it.

During your meal, you will get an unlimited supply of side dishes (called banchan in Korean). It's very common to drink beer and soju with your meal. The best part is the cheap price- which is from $8-12USD per person!

Some of the best Korean BBQ places in Seoul are Non-gol-jip in Gangnam, and Mapo Sut-buli in Apgujeong. Enjoy!

... AND WHERE IS A GOOD PLACE TO STAY IN SEOUL?

If you haven't sorted out yet where you gonna stay in Seoul, this might come handy. Here are four great hostels and guesthouses to get a good night's sleep. Oh, and by the way... Seoul is not as expensive as one might think of. A comprehensive list of hotels in Seoul in all price ranges can be found on Agoda.com.