By Ria Mendoza

FOR many Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the underlying dream is to save up, go back home, start a business and eventually attain financial independence. But even though many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have done this before, a huge percentage has also found the path to entrepreneurship very difficult. Eventually, the savings from years of hard work end up in smoke.

(Photo: From left to right: UP Professor Ilano, Philippine Consul General Benito Valeriano, PBC President Lucille Ong and UP Professor Florendo awards the sixth ‘Managing for Business Success’ seminar participants the certificate of completion).

On the other hand, others have no solid idea where to start realizing their dreams.

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By Izah Morales
INQUIRER.net

“Bahay Kubo kahit munti ang halaman doon ay sari-sari…”

The song brings nostalgia of how life in the rural side can be simple and modest. But as time ticks away, such life calls for modernization. Would a modern Bahay Kubo be possible in the age of digitization?

Isolina Calma made it possible when she conceptualized a modern Bahay Kubo 57 years ago. Her daughter, Jophine Calma-Lazaro recalled how her mother fancied bamboos.

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By Izah Morales
INQUIRER.net

WHEN dawn breaks, his live alarm clock starts crowing and cackling, waking him up for a morning jog. For 78-year-old Felipe Obrince, this morning ritual does not bother him at all as he looks forward to an early jog with San Pedro’s (St. Peter’s) favorite pet: a rooster.

Obrince’s pet rooster, Robinhood –his fourth pet– jogs with him around the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) campus every morning or when weather permits.

According to Obrince, Robinhood has actually other names, including Kaber and Burtik.

Obrince said he has been changing Robinhood’s name in the last three years to allow his talented rooster to join pet shows.
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This article is also published in the Proudly Filipina blog, an online magazine and social network that simulates the warm, intimate and safe environment of bonding with your sisters or best girlfriends. Through a selection of articles on love, sex, hobbies, soulful stories, inspiration, health and wellness, advocacies and women’s issues and that are targeted towards enriching the Pinay’s heart, body and spirit, it’s every Filipina’s virtual coffee-and-cupcake time at the click of a mouse.

By Rissa Calica-Gimenez

ARE you a Maria Clara? A Gabriela Silang? Or a Cory Aquino? Like all women, Filipinas do come in all shapes and sizes. But what sets us apart is our character — unique, distinct, feisty, yet caring to the max. Find out what type of a Filipina you are and have fun!

You’re a Maria Clara if you…

Dare not dine alone in a restaurant
Can’t wear a dress with low neckline
Won’t go out on a first date without a friend or a chaperone
Are demure and would not think of raising your voice
Would rather “die” than call a guy on the phone

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By Izah Morales
INQUIRER.net

SOMETIMES you just hate the rain especially the nonstop downpour that causes flooding — not to mention wet socks and feet.

In Muntinlupa City, however, no rain can stop the celebration of the Banhayan Festival as residents of barangay Cupang and Buli danced and sang despite the strong rains. I saw people who were barefoot not complaining, as they followed the long route of the parade.

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By Lawrence Casiraya
INQUIRER.net

LIKE any “business” person, Mang Joel (full name Joel Gastorillo) thrives on having loyal clientele and trying to protect his turf.

I was able to persuade him to relax under the shade for an interview and he was kind enough to lend me a few precious minutes. In his line of work, every moment counts.

Each time a traffic light turns red is an opportunity to make a living.

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