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cartoonedin · 3 months ago

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layla and rory learn why padlocks exist: a fanfiction

can't believe my first uca fanfic is about layla fletcher and totally imagined interactions. who would've thunk it. this was written entirely in discord and came with such insightful commentary from my friend as:

in my mind this takes place when they're older and (not that much) wiser but sophia still being alive might un-suspend your disbelief in that aspect. enjoy!

moonlight sidles into the room. layla’s heart skips a beat at the call of near-curfew. she’s been doing her very best to keep out of trouble this year, which has resulted in complete abstinence from her greatest vices: late-night visits to the library, taking up years worth of teachers’ consultation time, and stashing away her humble coffee making kit/fbi-tracked portable laboratory.

it’s of note, then, that layla is now in possession of a living, breathing boyfriend whose heart beats for her and her alone (and mister mendoza as a quote-unquote bit that often lasts one too many texts to be a smidge, never mind a bit) due to drink smuggling. it’s a dangerous trade, somewhere in the suffocating space between opposing sophia and descending to the depths of the underworld. yet as she found herself sucked into a vortical economy of energy drinks and plots to topple the humble skyberry’s monopolization, she reaped a whirlwind romance for the ages. this fact is very unfortunate for her desire to never get detention again. most dormmate-related facts are.

“i’m just saying, it’s fine by me if you never leave.” rory drapes himself over her lap as he pitches a stolen guitar pick to the ceiling. it’s hardly the best position for the aerodynamics of the act, but she can’t find it in herself to protest.

“never?” layla tucks a nonexistent hair behind her ear. this is one of his invitations, she’s hoping, to enter his world of hyperbole and hypocrisy in a non-miss-furi-provoking situation. “would that make your dormitory your evil lair, and me the fair maiden you’ve stolen away from her gilded cage?”

he yawns. or perhaps he burps. or perhaps he does both at the same time. layla has long given up on boxing rory’s actions within the neat lines of basic biological processes, and rory has long given up any inhibitions about being anything but his usual gross self around girls. even the ones that have painstakingly dragged his grades up to the first half of the alphabet. “hey, i dunno about fair maidens, but most girls would consider me not letting them win at pop pong pretty evil.”

“most girls didn’t get assigned to a dorm with the sorest winner in the world and her throngs of sweaty socks.” she giggles, her tone lowering into a conspiratory teasing. “and everyone knows frost glacier freeze is the superior flavour.”

he’s about to refute her argument when something interrupts him. no, it is not something. it is the thing. it is the sound of combat boots battling each and every tile leading up to rory’s room. it is the overture to a symphony of crackling hellfire. it is valentina furi.

“rory carmichael, if i catch you drawing deathly omens on my grandmama’s teacups again, i swear–” the door swings open. the pair of amber eyes presumably about to laser rory to death now jump up and down and all around. the assumption of rory being burnt to a crisp only gains more ground. “just what are you two doing?”

they look at each other. they look at the pile of books on the floor. “studying!”

“at least isa–someone and i workshopped our excuses.” her perfectly drawn brows are drawn at a different angle of disapproval than usual. does she look… sad? “honestly, layla, i expected better from you.”

eventually, valentina grows tired of seeing the anthromorphic puddles they are, and the door is slammed with extreme prejudice. the noise is piercing, causing layla to descend into the hissing whisper supposedly reserved for 3am study sessions, not 8pm perfectly platonic looking casual hangouts. “studying? you expected her to believe that?”

“um, yeah, that’s why i said it.”

it would be the discovery of a lifetime to some, more staggering than mass-energy equivalence or miss primrose’s background in equestrian acrobatics, that rory has reasons for saying things. not to layla. learning that rory has reasons for saying things is to layla as the wright flyer’s first liftoff must’ve been to the wright brothers; all evidence points to a solid truth, but the solid seems to be made of gum to the point where one can’t be faulted for thinking something’s going to go up in flames. she sighs.

“what do you think she meant by having expected better of me?”

“beats me. who cares what carrot top thinks?” rory clears his throat. “i mean, your pupils are a beautiful shade of frost glacier freeze.”

“my irises, rory.” she bats her eyelashes with a practiced innocence. practice makes perfect, indeed. “clearly, you need more one-on-one tutoring.”

a monumental crash of crystal and crockery commences. “HAH! FIFTY BUCKS, FURI!”

layla surmises, by virtue of the sound’s estimated frequency and amplitude and also the sight of isabel’s heels clip-clopping down the hall with as much grace as a horse high on grim magic and gathering book magic and anabolic steroids, that she and rory are going to have a long, long night.

(it turns into a long, long morning when sophia realises she’s been using one of valentina’s acrylic nails to play her guitar for the past week.)

#unicorn academy #layla fletcher #rory carmichael #loserlove #<- which is an insult 2 both of them 2 me

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peryodismo2425 · 2 months ago

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Nakaraan at Kasalukuyan: Pagsubok ng Isang Guro

Ni Faith L. Mendoza | Nobyembre 9, 2024

Sa pagsapit ng alas-otso ng umaga, nagsisitakbuhan na ang mga estudyante at guro papasok sa kani-kanilang mga silid-aralan. Ilalabas na agad ang mga kwaderno at bolpen ng bawat isa, at magsisimula nang magturo ang mga guro ng aralin sa klase. May ilang inaantok pa, at karamihan, pagod na. Ngunit madalas, nakatulala lang tayo sa pagod natin at hindi natin nabibigyang pansin ang mga pagsubok na nararanasan ng mga gurong nagtatiyagang magturo.

Kaya ngayon, ating tuklasan ang pananaw ng isang guro–ang pananaw ni Ma’am Janine Dela Paz, isang guro mula sa Departamento ng Sining Praktika sa UPIS.

Bago pumasok si Ma’am Janine sa UPIS, nagturo muna siya sa isang pribadong tutorial center. Nagkaroon siya ng pag-aalinlangan sa pagtuturo dahil mas nagugustuhan niya ang larangan ng negosyo at industriya ng pagkain. Ngunit hanggang sa unang hakbang lamang siya ng panayam nakakapasok, kaya naman sinubukan niyang pumasok sa isang tutorial center. Dito, natanggap siya agad-agad. Nagtagal siya nang ilang mga buwan doon at noong 2017, nagsimula siyang magturo sa UPIS.

Maraming nakakakilala kay Ma’am bilang masigla at masayahing magturo. Ngunit hindi naman talaga tayo parmilyar sa kung ano ang kuwento sa likod nito.

“Walang buwan na hindi ako umiiyak,” iyan ang sinabi ni Ma'am Janine tungkol sa kanyang karanasan sa mga unang taon niya sa UPIS. Sa mga panahong ito, kinailangan niyang gawin ang lahat mula sa simula tulad ng mga quiz, visual aids, at lesson plan. “Ayoko ng ganitong buhay…” dagdag niya, dahil kahit tuwing weekend at madaling-araw, labis pa rin ang pagtatrabaho niya. Napakabigat ng trabaho sa UPIS kumpara sa karanasan niya noong nagtatrabaho pa lang siya sa isang tutorial center..

Bilang baguhan, nangangapa siya sa kapaligiran at mga kasama niya sa trabaho. Mainam na sabihing napakahirap talagang maging isang guro. Bukod dito, isa siya sa mga naging Food Service Manager sa canteen. Sila ang nag-aasikaso ng mga gawain dito tulad ng paghahanda ng pagkain at pagtulong sa pagbebenta. Kaugnay nito, hindi lang pagtuturo ang naging trabaho niya, kaya nagkakapatong-patong ito. Tugon niya, ang mga unang taon ng pagtuturo ang pinakamahirap talaga. Dahil sa kanyang sobrang pagkapagod, tila nagiging bumbilya siya na walang pahinga at pakurap-kurap dahil sa labis na pagkakagamit. Bumbilyang dating maliwanag ngunit ngayon, napupundi na.

Ilan lamang iyan sa mga pagsubok na hinarap ni Ma’am Janine. Noong nagkaroon ng pandemya, panibagong hamon na naman ang hinarap niya.

Naging online ang mga klase kaya madalas, nagkakaroon ng technical difficulties ang mga guro at estudyante. Bukod dito, dahil hindi raw siya ‘yung tipo ng tao na “techy”, nahihirapan siyang gumamit ng iba’t ibang plataporma kaya madalas siyang natambakan ng mga kailangang i-tsek na gawain. Kailangan din niyang mag-isip ng mga paraan kung paano magiging kahali-halina ang kanyang klase. Mahirap daw ito lalo’t nakapatay naman ang kamera ng karamihan. Aniya pa nga, “Kulang na lang bumalentong ako para makuha ko ‘yung atensyon ng mga bata…”

Magkakaiba rin ang pag-uugali ng bawat batch kaya naging hamon ito para sa kanya. Isang UPIS alumni si Ma’am Janine, kaya akala niya na pareho lang ang kilos ng mga estudyante dito sa kanyang sariling batch, ngunit hindi pala. Dati, maraming pinapagawa sa kanila ngunit madiskarte naman sila. Pero ngayon, parang kaunting gawain na ibigay sa mga mag-aaral, magrereklamo na umano agad, at gayundin sa pag-uulat. Bago magkaroon ng pandemya, kayang magpahayag ng mga estudyante nang malinaw at maayos. Pero ngayon, hirap na ang mga estudyante at laging may binabasa sa cellphone. Ayon sa kanya, dahil siguro ito sa epekto ng online classes. Kapag online kasi, pwede kang tumingin at magbasa nang may kodigo. Hindi na rin kasinghigpit ng dati ang eskwelahan sa paggamit ng gadget, kaya mas madalas itong ginagamit, at nakadepende na halos lahat ng estudyante dito pagdating sa pag-uulat.

Ngayon naman, medyo nakakagaan sa loob bahagyang naginhawahan noong nasabi ni Ma’am na nakapag-adjust na siya sa kanyang trabaho. Mahirap pa rin naman ang kanyang trabaho, ngunit talagang mas malaking pasanin ito noong una. Hindi na rin siya gumagawa ng trabaho kapag weekend. Ika niya, “‘Pag weekend, kailangan kong magpahinga,” sa pamamagitan ng paggala. Paminsan-minsan upang maibsan ang stress na kanyang nararamdaman, at pagtrabaho na lamang kung kailangan—parang isang bumbilya na kailangang ipahinga upang hindi lumabo ang liwanag nito at masira agad. Hindi na rin siya Food Service Manager sa canteen kaya gumaan ang kanyang trabaho. At siyempre, nakakatuwang makita na mahusay siya sa kanyang trabaho. Ang liwanag na dating napundi, muling lumiwanag.

Kung maihahalintulad si Ma’am Janine sa isang bagay, may pagkakatulad siya sa isang bumbilya. Nagbigay siya ng liwanag at ideya sa mga estudyante tungkol sa kung ano nga ba ang mga pagsubok ng mga guro na hindi natin nabibigyan ng pansin. Dagdag dito, siya mismo ang nagbibigay ng liwanag at karunungan sa mga estudyanteng kanyang tinuturuan. At mula sa kanyang mga salita, “Palagi lang gawin ang best sa lahat ng ginagawa kahit na minsan ay nahihirapan na. Darating ‘yung araw na makikita niyo ang bunga ng lahat ng pagsisikap at paghihirap na napagdaanan niyo.”

#Faith Mendoza #Guro

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wickedsrest-rp · 1 year ago

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Name: Isabela "Isa" Caceres Species: Lamia Occupation: Clerk at the Sugar Pot Age: 23 Years Old Played By: Nash Face Claim: Maia Reficco

"I’ve been told I rot people from the inside out but they’re the ones who made me what I am."

Isa Caceres has only been in the US since the age of nine. Up until that point, she and the rest of her family lived in Mendoza, Argentina, a beautiful city that houses some of the greatest wineries in the country, and she loved it. The atmosphere, the city, the closeness of their community, it all contributed to the love she held for her hometown. Unfortunately for her family, it seemed the poverty rate in their country was becoming too much for them to outrun. That, coupled with the political state they were in, Isa’s father made the decision to move his family to the United States with the hope that they could work towards a better life.

It took years for him to get citizenship for him and his family and all the while he did his very best to keep them afloat while trying to give his daughters the very best education he could. Isa’s dad was determined to get her and her older sister into a good college so that the two of them could move on to an even better life than he could provide for them, an accomplishment that her older sister had no problem achieving. Having Violet make it to Harvard University on a full scholarship only put that much more pressure on Isa to achieve her goals of her own athletic scholarship to the school of her dreams.

One night of blowing off steam took all of those dreams away. Isa was a good girl most of the time even if she’d always been that baby of the family that got away with what Violet could never get away with herself. She’d decided to go out with her team one night, decided to drink, and then decided it would be fun to climb to the top of a local water tower. Other’s were understandably cautious but Isa was able to convince perhaps the shyest girl on their team to join her only because the girl wanted to impress her. Isa knew that. She knew the girl had a crush on her and she used that to her advantage.

Most of the players on the team that night would go on to say that Isa pushed her. The limited line of sight they had on the two could only provide that much but Isa swore up and down that she slipped and fell over the railing. They must have thought that she pushed her because she’d actually been trying to stop her from falling to her death. It was the worst thing that Isa had ever experienced in her sleepy little town but the heartache of it all would be dragged out far longer than she had expected.

After her arrest she lost everything from the scholarship she had worked so hard for to her parents' respect. The trial wasn’t too drawn out only because the team’s testimonies couldn’t be used due to them being drunk and Isa’s charges were dropped to manslaughter. Even with that drop, Isa still missed out on the rest of her childhood when she was convicted, spending the next few years behind bars and learning to grow up way too soon.

The cherry on top of the horrific cake that had become her life was yet to come. What Isa didn’t know was that the girl who had been killed came from a respected family of spellcasters in the area and her older brother was out for revenge. The whole family had agreed that Isa’s sentence wasn’t enough, that she should have been behind bars for the rest of her life, but the middle child had bigger plans for his sister’s murderer even if it took him a few years to get the spell just right. It started small. Some nights Isa would wake up in her tiny apartment with cold sweats and not know why there were chicken feathers stuck to her arm, sometimes she would walk by a mirror and notice that her eyes weren’t right, and sometimes her hunger was so great that she would eat any meat she could find in her kitchen. But things started to progress quickly and horrifyingly so.

The first time that she fully shifted terrified her. She remembered everything when she was able to get back to her human form but she had no idea what was happening to her or why. The large scaly body, the huge fangs, the desire to sink those fangs into the first large mammal she could find and then eat it all came back to her as she made her way back home in the middle of the night. What was she? Why was she suddenly shifting into a large snake with a desire to rip apart her prey?

Months passed before she could find anyone who could give her answers but once she was able to comprehend what she had become, with the help of her newly found contact, she set to work on finding out why. Isa is still new to the lamia game but she was starting to become more comfortable with her abilities, almost willing to drop the idea of finding out who had done it to her, until a new challenge started to present itself. An ability to turn people into stone when she looked them in the eye was new, something that her contact couldn’t even explain, and now she knows she has to find who did this to her before she actually does become the murderer that they think she is.

Character Facts:

Personality: Rebellious, headstrong, adventurous, outgoing, independent, spontaneous, careless

When transformed, Isa becomes a Patagonian Lancehead, a dangerous pit viper that is only found within the country of Argentina.

Spending a good amount of her life in Argentina, she still has trouble remembering that some of the social customs in her home country are not quite the same in the US. She doesn’t believe in personal space and loves to be close to the people she’s interacting with, not to mention the kisses on the cheeks as greetings.

She played soccer until she moved to the US and then basketball became her game. Isa moved up the ranks and became a nationally ranked high school player. She had an athletic scholarship to attend Columbia University but it was rescinded when they heard about the scandal she was involved in.

People started to treat her like a pariah after the death of Ruth and her juvenile sentence so she started to lean into the stereotypes that came with those judgements. She’s always been a little bit of a rebellious person but now she’s someone who will always go to great lengths to rebel against what is considered ‘social norms’ to most of the world.

Most of what she eats is large game. She’s never even considered a human as a meal, doesn’t even know that it’s something that other lamia do. She doesn’t consider herself a murderer despite the rest of the town thinking she is one.

#taken lamia #taken shifter #bio #Maia Reficco

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dittomander · 2 years ago

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I love your birthday posts on the EOA characters. I know Isabel was born in August and you’ve mentioned that Elena has a summer birthday too. On Twitter, I asked Craig Gerber about the age difference between Elena and Isabel. According to him, Elena and Isabel are roughly 5 years apart, give or take a few months. If that’s the case, wouldn’t Elena’s birthday month be further away from Isabel’s?

Thank you! I'm glad you like them.

Re: Craig - uh, he's just flat out incorrect. They're 6 years apart. Elena announces that she's 17 in "Jewel of Maru", and Isabel says that she's 11 years, 3 months, and 2 days old in "Three Jaquins and a Princess" just three episodes later.

Even if we throw out any other clues for their birth dates, look just at those two lines, and assume:

that Elena is as young as she could possibly be for her statement to be true (i.e., she turned 17 that morning)

that Isabel is as old as she could possibly be for her statement to be true (i.e., 3JP happens as early in the show as it possibly can)

...then the minimum possible age gap between the two is 5 years, 9 months, and 3 days, which I'd argue is way closer to 6 years, give or take a few months, not 5. In terms of calendar years, they'd be 6 years apart. To show my work:

"Jewel of Maru" takes place on November 2nd, Día de los Muertos.

"The Curse of El Guapo", one of the episodes between JoM and 3JP, explicitly spans 3 days - Gabe gets the sword and doesn't deliver it (day 1), Mendoza thanks him for delivering the sword "yesterday" and Gabe goes to Mateo for help (day 2), Mateo gives Gabe the reversal potion and says it "took [him] all night" (day 3).

Guapo plus "Royal Rivalry" plus 3JP starting on a new morning (it opens at breakfast) means that the earliest 3JP can take place is 5 days after JoM, or November 7th.

3 months and 2 days before November 7th is August 5th.

Plugging November 2nd, 17 years ago (2006) and August 5th, 11 years ago (2012) into this calculator gives me the above gap.

And again, that's assuming the absolute minimum gap. We can be pretty sure Elena's birthday is in the summer (the show starts during Sofia's summer vacation and ends roughly 4 years later, so presumably summer as well. If nothing else, we know it ends after Mother's Day and presumably before the next Día de los Muertos), which makes the gap even larger. If we use Craig Gerber's own words that Elena is a Leo (technically not 'canon' either, but has at least as much merit as any of his other tweets), then the latest her birthday could possibly be is August 23rd, and using that in the calculator above with August 5th still as Isa's birthday, the gap we get is 5 years, 11 months, 13 days.

(And frankly, we can probably assume Isa's birthday is at least a little later, too. I highly doubt "Royal Rivalry" takes place over the course of one day - they have to send word to Paraíso and wait for Val to arrive, and it's not like they have cellphones or trains.)

So, uh, yeah. They're 6 years apart, roughly. I'm assuming Craig either misspoke, miscounted, or misremembered. He is still, after all, just one guy.

#elena of avalor #eoa #elena castillo flores #isabel castillo flores #eoa timeline #ditto answers

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hellodmplz · 6 hours ago

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youtube

Gusto ko lang ishare ang full pre-wedding video namin ni Darge. Sobrang satisfied talaga ako sa output ng napili naming Photo/Vid team, Kudos to Daylight Captures & BA Films.

Anway, yung peg ko talaga is yung pre-wedding film nila Maine Mendoza at Arjo Atayde pero syempre, napaka sosyal naman nun. Sabi ko kahit kasing same vibes nalang haha! Di kasi kami bagay magseryoso ni Darge kasi pareho kaming kengkoy, isa pa gusto ko light lang yung feels ng photos and videos namin since ganun naman talaga personality namin. Ang fun lang ng experiences na 'to kasi gan'to pala feeling ng mga artista.

Soing choices ko rin pala 'yung nasa vid, bale binigyan ko ng isang spotify playlist yung Videographer namin tapos siya na namili kung anong babagay na songs. Katuwa talaga kasi ang cute tingnan ng vid. (Syempre cute yan kami yan e) HAHAHAH!

#darge #Youtube

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hruali · 1 month ago

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A Sister's Sacrifice

DECEMBER 19 2008. Maria, the mother of Prima and Uno who’s currently pregnant with Isabella is arguing with her husband Juan.

Maria: Ayokong ipalaglag ang batang ito, Juan. I don’t want to!

Juan: Kung ayaw mo, edi ‘wag mong gawin! I’ve been such a great father to Prima and Uno tapos malalaman ko lang na hindi ako ang ama niyan?

Maria: I’ve already explained and said sorry to you, Juan.

Juan: A sorry and explanation isn’t enough for what you just did. Sa tingin mo bang ia-accept ko ‘yan? Are you out of your mind Maria?!

As they were arguing, the eldest Prima could hear them from the inside of there bedroom. She covers Uno’s ears whilst the yelling still continues hoping her brother wouldn’t wake up.

Juan: Sino ang ama niyan? Sino?!

Juan continuously asked Maria who the father was, but Maria kept her mouth shut and just let Juan angrily yell and ask.

Maria: Can you stop yelling, Juan?! Natutulog na nga yung mga anak mo puro ka pa sigaw!

Juan: Hindi ako titigil hanggat hindi ko malaman kung sino ang ama ng dala mong bata.

Maria: Jusko naman Juan! Oo na nag kamali ako, pero puwede ba huwag mo akong sigaw sigawan dahil asawa mo parin ako! And you want to know who’s the father? Fine, it’s my co-worker. Si Iso! Siya ang ama ng batang to.

Maria yelled back at Juan, tears streaming down her cheeks. On the other hand, Juan was speechless; he couldn’t react. His brain was too stunned after hearing those words from his wife. He couldn’t believe it. Maria was the last person he thought would break his heart and betray his trust

Juan: A-ano? Sa lahat ng tao, katrabaho mo pa, tapos kumpare ko pa! Ang kapal ng pag mumukha mo Maria! Pero kasi, *He stopped, collecting his thoughts before speaking again* kahit ganyan pa ung ginawa mo, mahal parin kita. *Juan was close to tears, his heart aching in Maria's presence.*

Maria: Juan... Juan, pasensya na..

A few seconds of heavy silence passed. Then, the creak of the door shattered the stillness. Their eldest daughter appeared at the top of the stairs, her gaze fixed on them.

Prima: Ma, Pa.. puwede po bang tama na po iyan? baka po magising si uno, *her voice cracked, as if she was going to cry* Kung mag sisigawan po kayo, sana huwag nalang po ulit dito sa bahay, ang sakit po kasi pakinggan habang nag aaway kayong dalawa. Sana po isipin niyo rin kami, mahal ko po kayo. *With a heavy heart, Prima tiptoed back to her little brother’s room. She prayed that Uno was oblivious to the chaos that had unfolded.*

DECEMBER 25 2008

Maria: Am I in labor now? *she heavily breathes while holding her tummy* Ang sakit, anak sandali lang, huwag ka muna lumabas, hindi alam ni mommy kung makakaya niya ito ng mag isa. Wala ang daddy mo. Anak, please.

Maria prayed silently, asking God to guide her and the child within her. She sought strength and guidance from God, knowing the immense challenge ahead. Fearful of dying during childbirth and the possibility of giving up, she nevertheless persevered for her child. She would rather die after giving birth than during labor, prioritizing her child's life above her own. Even as her problems seemed hopeless, she held on to faith and hope.

*After praying, she saw her eldest daughter, Prima, who came to say,*

Prima: Mama, Merry Christmas po. I love you mama, you are the best mama me and Uno could ever ask for. *after she said that, Maria fell to her knees, Luckily, Prima is holding her hand and support her* Mama, halika na po sa hospital!

Prima continued to hold her mother's hand until they reached the tricycle terminal. Uno was staying at their aunt's house.

When they got into the tricycle, Maria immediately said,

Maria: Anak, Prima, thank you so much. I love you so much, anak.

Prima replied, "It's okay, Mama. We're going to Mendoza Hospital." Prima told the tricycle driver, and a few minutes later, they arrived at the hospital. Prima guided her mother towards the entrance and immediately called doctors and nurses to inform them that her mother was about to give birth. The doctors rushed in, put Maria on a bed, and took her to the delivery room.

Prima shouted, "Mama! Mama! Mama!" as the medical staff rushed her mother to the delivery room. Once they reached the delivery room, the nurses stopped her from entering and told her to wait outside.

Nurse: Please wait here for a moment, iha.

The nurse told her to wait, and she anxiously awaited her mother's return. She breathed nervously, unsure of what to do. She prayed for her mother's survival and a successful delivery. With nothing else to do, she turned to prayer, hoping her mother would overcome this challenge and her sibling would be healthy. When she imagined finally saw them, her sibling was sleeping peacefully in Maria's arms. She asked God to give them both strength and help them survive, knowing her mother had already faced numerous challenges before and during her pregnancy.

Tears streamed down Prima's face as she prayed, her young heart overwhelmed with anxiety. She desperately hoped for the best, especially on Christmas Eve, a day meant for joy and celebration. Fear gnawed at her, and she wondered what she would do if tragedy struck on this special day.

Prima:"Amen," she whispered, finishing her prayer.

A doctor emerged, bearing unexpected news.

Doctor: "I'm so sorry, but we tried everything to save your mother. Her heart stopped immediately after giving birth to your little sister. Please excuse me."

The doctor bowed and left, leaving Prima alone in shock. She couldn't believe what she had just heard. The most joyous day had turned into the darkest nightmare.

"No, no, no, this can't be true. They're just joking. This is just a dream," Prima repeated to herself, unable to accept her mother's sudden death. "This can't be happening. Why would Mama leave us when we're still so young?" she thought, her heart heavy with grief. She wanted to cry, but no tears came. Her soul and heart were shattered, the pain too profound for words.

Ringing

Prima: "Pa? Wala na si mama. We're at Mendoza, room 0925."

Prima's voice was devoid of emotion, despite the immense pain she felt.

* Prima decided to enter the delivery room where her mother and sibling lay. A white blanket covered Maria's body. Prima stared at it, hesitant to remove the blanket. The pain was too much to bear. She heard a faint cry, and there, in an incubator, lay her sibling, a healthy and beautiful baby girl, a carbon copy of Maria. Walking towards the incubator, Prima gazed at the newborn and softly uttered, "I will take care of you."

Just then, her father arrived, panting heavily. Juan rushed towards Maria's covered body,

desperately trying to wake her.

Juan: Maria… aking mahal, gising na, napatawad nakita. Maria! gumising ka please, gising, mahal huwag naman ganito, sabi mo sabay tayong tatanda? pero bakit ka naman nauna sakin na mamahinga? Please wake up, mahal. Please. open your eyes and tell me you are just sleeping... *Juan sobbed heavily, desperately trying to wake Maria, even though he knew she was gone.*

After that, Juan hugged Maria one last time and kissed her forehead. He then walked over to the incubator, gently carrying the baby while still crying. Though the baby wasn't biologically his, he vowed to love her as his own. Smiling at the newborn, Juan said, "You're Isabella now. Our Isa."

* After signing the birth certificate and planning Maria's funeral, they returned home. Though their hearts were heavy, life didn't pause for their grief. They had to move forward. When they arrived home, they found Uno waiting for them, his face etched with worry.*

Juan: Uno, anak- *before Juan could ever finish his sentence, Uno interrupted him*

Uno: I know na papa, Mama Maria is dead! and kanino po yang anak na hawak niyo?! *Uno said, obvious that he is mad and hurt from the situation*

Juan: Anak, this is your sibling, Isabella..

*Juan was supposed to speak again but Uno opened his mouth again*

Uno: Half, half sibling papa, You are not the father of Isabella, Tita Marie told me already. And that baby? Siya ang dahilan kung bakit namatay si mama! *Uno stormed out, stomping his feet as he went upstairs.*

Prima: Uno! Bumalik ka rito! Ngayon na! * Prima couldn't believe her little brother's words. Her heart shattered even more, and the weight of her problems grew heavier.*

Juan: Hayaan mo na anak.

*few months had passed, and Uno's anger towards Isabella persisted. He blamed her for their mother's death, believing that if Isabella hadn't been born, Maria would still be alive. Juan also struggled immensely, often drinking until the early hours of the morning, mourning Maria's loss and blaming himself for her death. His drinking problem made it difficult for him to care for his children.

Meanwhile, Prima, the eldest, was forced to shoulder the burden of everything. She cared for Isabella, tried to soothe Uno's anger, and managed their household, even after their father, Juan, passed away. Lost and confused, she struggled to cope with her own grief while shouldering the weight of her family's responsibilities. At just 13 years old, she was forced to mature rapidly, her childhood stolen by tragedy. Despite her own pain, she persevered, driven by her love for her siblings. Everyone relied on her, but who would be there for Prima?

Prima: Pagod na ako, pagod na ako, Lord. * She silently cried, pouring out her heart to God* Hindi ko alam kung paano ko pa nakakaya ang lahat nang to pero, sobrang pagod na ng buong katawan ko, Lord, bigyan mo naman ako ng lakas. Iparamdam mo uli sana sakin na masaya ang buwan ng December.

*AFTER 2 YEARS*

After crying to God, Prima fell asleep from exhaustion.

The next morning came, Prima cleaned the house and took care of Isa and Uno. She does their usual routine thinking it was a normal day, when suddenly a ringing tone was heard from the living room. She told Uno to answer it as she was busy with the dishes. Uno went to the living room to answer the call.

Uno: Hello?

anonymous: Yes hello, do you perhaps know who Juan is?

Uno: Juan Zamora po ba?

anonymous: yes yes, do you have someone older than you there, iho?

Uno: yes po, tawagin ko lang si ate.

Uno: Ate! may humahanap sayo!

Prima: Sino naman?

Prima stopped washing the dishes and went to the living room to talk to the person who called them.

Prima: hello po, ano po yun?

A: hello, about sa tatay mo ito iha.

Prima: bakit po? ano po nangyari sa tatay namin?

Prima was both worried and confused

A: kasi iha, your father was drinking with his friends kanina, but then something happened.

Prima: Ano po yon? What happened to him?

A: na-heart attack siya iha.

Prima: P-po?

Prima was shocked, she sat down to calm herself.

A: Iha? nandiyan ka ba? hello?

P: yes hello, nasaan po kayo?

A: we’re at Mendoza Hospital, please come as fast as you can.

P: Okay, thank you po.

After the call, Prima calmed herself as she went to Uno to tell him the news.

P: Uno?

U: Bakit po ate?

P: We need to go to the hospital, ngayon na Uno.

U: Bakit? Si papa ba? Ate?

P: Wag na puro tanong, bilisan mo, go and get ready.

U: sige po ate.

While Uno was getting ready, Prima went to their room to get Isa. She quickly packed some things and went outside to wait for Uno.

U: Tara na ate

P: Wala ka nang naiwan? Nakuha mo na ba kukunin mo?

U: Yes, let’s go na.

They walked to the streets, looking for a jeep that can take them to the hospital.

Prima prayed that hopefully everything will be fine.

As the jeep stopped infront of the hospital, Prima was wishing, with her whole heart that their father will be okay. She soon realized the vehicle had come to a halt and nudged Uno and grabbed Isa.

P: Baba na tayo.

They got out of the jeep and went inside the hospital.

Many nurses were walking around hurriedly, calling for a specific cardiologist, filling out the patient’s form, as well as looking for his health insurance.

Everything seemed like a blur to Prima and soon enough, they were guided to the ICU.

But it was too late.

There he was: their beloved father. His lifeless body was on the bed, his face was turning pale, his breath...gone. His eyes, that were once filled with joy and love for his family…were shut. Forever. Tears built up in Prima’s eyes as soon as she realized: their father was gone. Both of their parents were gone. She felt sad...depressed, even. She thought, “Why is the world so harsh towards me?” Their father was gone. The last person that gave her hope that everything will be okay, even without mother. Uno approached his older sister and hugged her, consoling her.

U: Ate…

Though, he didn’t know what to say either. He felt his eyes water. On the other hand, Isa was confused.

I: Ate, bakit tulog pa po si daddy?

P: …

Prima didn’t know how to tell Isabella as she is still young and innocent, which led her to think of an excuse.

P: Bunso…ano kasi, pagod na pagod si daddy.

I: Ah, sige, ate!

Prima felt guilty about lying but, she thought it’d be the best for now.

Soon, a doctor approached them.

Dr.: Uh…mga bata? Condolence…nasaan nanay niyo?

Prima was shocked at the question as her mind turned to a mess. All these thoughts circulated through her brain, it was the most painful thing she’s felt.

P: Sir- ano po…-

U: Patay na rin po…

Uno cut Prima off, breaking the news himself. The doctor’s eyes widened and apologized.

Dr.: Apologies, I didn’t know…

The room was filled with silence.

Dr.: Ah, oo nga pala…meron ba kayong kamag-anak na pwede niyong tuluyan?

Prima remembers their aunts: Tita Marie Dela Cruz and Tita Kiel Dela Cruz

They always came at their home whenever they needed them the most.

P: Tatanungin ko pa po…

As if on cue, their aunts arrived.

Tita Kiel: ‘Nak!

Tita Marie: Kamusta na ang iyong tatay?

…

P: W-Wala na po…

She answered, her voice was now monotone. Her eyes were dull as her head was down. Uno was staring into nothing as he processed everything. Isa was still as innocent as ever but sensed the tense atmosphere.

Their aunts hugged the three siblings tightly.

Tita Marie: Sorry, ‘nak…

Tita Kiel: …

Tita Kiel rubbed Prima’s back, empathizing her situation as the eldest. Tita Marie hugged Uno and Isa together, kissing their foreheads. The group cried.

Tita Kiel and Tita Marie decided they take care of the three kids and take them at their house.

Tita Kiel: Alam kong mahirap ito, mga anak…

Prima and Uno were staring at nothing, still in disbelief. Isa hugged the two, not knowing what to do as she didn’t understand yet.

Weeks passed since the three kids has settled in.

*SETTING CHANGE: DINING TABLE

*Prima faced her two aunties, seeming as if she wanted to say something.

Prima: Tita Kiel at Tita Marie, mag tra-trabaho na po ako sa maynila.

The aunties were speechless. They didn’t expect something like that to happen to Prima, because they were sure they had told the three of them not to worry at all, as they would be the ones working. Prima is only 15; they don’t know if they would allow her to work. They are afraid and worried for Prima.

Tita Marie: Ano, Prima? Mag tra-trabaho ka sa edad mong yan? Baka mapaano ka dun, at malayo ka sa probinsya!

Tita Kiel: Kaya nga prima, may trabaho naman kami ng tita mo, bakit kailangan mo pang lumuwas?

Prima doesn’t know what to say to her aunties. She knows they could provide for the three of them, but she doesn’t want to rely solely on them. She wants to help. She wants to prove to them that she can and will do anything for her siblings. She knows it will be hard for her, but she wants to help. She wants to enroll her siblings in an educational school.

*Prima replied,

Prima: Mga tita, kaya ko naman po. Alam kong hindi po sapat ang sahod niyo para buhayin kaming tatlo, gusto ko pong tumulong sainyo dahil laking pasasalamat narin po namin ung i-tira niyo po kami sa bahay niyo.

Tita Marie: Sure ka na ba jan, nak?

Prima was hesitant to answer at first, but she knew in her heart that she wanted to help and not burden anyone. She would do it for her aunties, siblings, and especially for herself.

*But even before Prima could say anything, Uno interrupted, feeling upset and sad*

Uno: Ano, Ate Prima? Tita Marie at Tita Kiel? Sa tingin niyo po ba papayagan ko si ate mag trabaho sa maynila? Siya na nga lang mayroon ako simula nung nawala ang mama namin eh! Ano, ate? Iiwan mo rin ba ko? kami ni Isa?

Prima: Uno, pasensya na. Kailangan talaga eh. * Prima apologizes, hoping Uno would understand the situation and her departure.*

*Uno didn’t say anything, but the sadness in his eyes was visible. He left the living area and went upstairs.*

*Tita Marie comforted Prima and told her that everything would be okay and that the day would come when Uno would understand everything.*

Tita Marie: Hayaan mo na, ganon talaga. Nasasaktan pa sa mga nangyari eh, maiintindihan niya rin itong lahat.

Tita Kiel: Oo nga, Kailan ba ang alis mo, nak? Kami na mag hahatid sayo. *Tita Kiel said as she caressed Prima's shoulder.*

Prima: Maraming salamat po talaga, Tita Marie at Tita Kiel.

Tita Marie: Wala yun.

Tita Kiel: Walang problema.

*Prima decided to leave the province to find work in Manila on March 5, 2010. She knew that it would be hard for her, considering her age, but she would never give up in her life and for her siblings to give them and their aunties a better life. She didn't know how to start, where to stay if she was still looking for a job; she was clueless. But one thing was certain: this was her new beginning with new challenges to face.*

Night, March 4. Prima had already finished packing her luggage and was just going to fix a few things before finally leaving.

*Prima decided to check on her little brother in his own room, sleeping. She was grateful that Uno was sleeping because he wouldn't see her leave, and she could bid him a peaceful farewell. She also wanted to say goodbye to Isabelle, their youngest. She promised that she would come back for both of them.*

Prima: Babalik ako, Uno. *she then closed the door*

Prima: Babalikan din kita, Isabelle.

*And after that, they looked for a tricycle that would take them to the bus station in Manila.*

Tita Marie: Prima, mag i-ingat ka dun ha, lagi mo rin kaming tatawagan at ite-

text.

Tita Kiel: Nandito lang kami lagi ng tita Marie mo, kung hindi mo na kaya rito sa maynila, wag kang mag dadalawang isip na umuwi sa probinsya.

Prima: Opo, mga tita. Wag na kayong masyadong mag alala, kaya ko ito at kakayanin ko.

*Then the bus arrived*

Tita Kiel: Oh ayan na, ingat ha.

*Prima entered the bus and waved goodbye to both of her aunties with a smile, signaling to Tita Marie and Tita Kiel that their niece could do it.*

*While in the bus, she realized that this was it; she could no longer rewind the moments. She just needed to be strong and determined. Prima also thought to herself, "This is for you, Mama and Papa."

*After hours, they finally arrived in Manila. The first time Prima stepped foot in Manila, she noticed that it was very different from the province. The high-rise establishments, the populated air, and the number of people were overwhelming. Everything was new to her.*

Prima: Eto na ba yun? Manila. *She looked around and strolled for a while until she saw a mansion house with a paper on the gate. It said, "Looking for a Yaya. Contact this number if you are interested: 09xxxxxxx." Prima thought this was perfect for her because she was looking for a job. She was interested and would really love to have work.*

*She contacted the number. While waiting for a response, Prima spent the night at her Tita Marie's old house in Manila. The next morning, she received a text saying she was accepted to be the yaya at the mansion and that she just needed to go there to start working.*

?:Come at my mansion, BLK 123 LOT 456.

Prima: Ah, sige, sige po! Salamat po!

*Prima felt a little bit of joy because she already had a job. She just hoped that her boss would treat her like a human being and not abuse their help workers. It was clear from the woman's voice that she sounded intimidating and classy. But Prima still hoped for the best.*

Prima went to the mansion, she saw the gates and went there. And there she saw a rich classy woman who’s standing inside the gates with her arms crossed looking at Prima intimidatingly. The woman standing at front of her has two other women beside her, imitating the woman with crossed arms.

Prima was intimated, but she tried her best to keep calm and gathered the courage to talk.

Prima: Hello, ma'am! Dito po yung naghahanap ng yaya, tama po ba?

??: Yes, were you the one who we called earlier?

Prima: Opo, ako po yun!

The woman in front looked at Prima from head to toe, almost like she’s judging her.

??: Come in, follow us.

She coldly said.

Prima silently walked and followed the three women.

They led her to the livingroom for the interview. They sat down and told Prima to take a sit.

???: Before we start, I’ll introduce myself. My name is Valeria, but I prefer you calling me Val. The girl at my right is Cheska, the one at my left is Amier. Okay?

Prima: Okay po, madam Val.

Val: What can you do?

Prima: I can do anything and everything you tell me to do po.

Amier: Mukhang medyo bata ka pa, ilang taon ka na?

Prima: I’m —— po.

Cheska: Kaya mo bang mag alaga ng bata?

Prima: Opo! Sanay na po ako dahil ako po ang nagaalaga sa dalawa kong kapatid.

Val: Mmm, okay. Start tomorrow, ipapakilala ko sayo ang aalagan mo.

Prima: Sige po, sobrang thank you po!

Val: okay.

Prima: Madam, magkano po pala ang sahod ko?

Prima hoped that her salary would be enough for the three of them.

Val: 10 thousand pesos. If we see you working hard we’ll make taas sa salary mo.

Prima: Ay salamat po!

Cheska: May tutulugan ka ba?

Prima: Ma’am?

Cheska: I said, may matutulugan ka ba?

Prima: Ano po kasi maam, galing pa po ako ng probinsya and I’m quite new here so wala pa po. I will find a motel nalang po siguro.

Amier: Wag na, dito ka nalang matulog.

Prima: Sure po ba kayo maam? Salamat po!

Amier: okay.

*Prima was engrossed in her work when she heard Cheska's demanding voice.*

Cheska: Nasaan naba yong make up ko?! Nilagay ko lang dito ah?

*Prima's eyes scanned the room in search of Cheska's makeup kit. She eventually spotted it, unfortunately, it had fallen into a container of water and was completely soaked. Realizing that Cheska hadn't noticed, Prima decided to take it out.*

Prima: Ma'am Cheska, ito po ba hinahanap niyo?

*Cheska glanced at Prima, who was holding her soggy makeup kit. She was surprised, as she had just placed it on the storage.*

Cheska: Hala! Bakit naman basa yan at hawak hawak mo? Binasa mo ba? Mygosh, Prima! Oh noo..

Prima: Hala ma'am hindi ko po binasa, nakita ko lang po dito na sa batcha, hindi ko po yan ginalaw, promise po.

*Cheska couldn't bring herself to accept that her makeup kit was ruined. She was tempted to blame Prima, but she hesitated. She didn't want to cause a scene, particularly on Prima's first day of work.*

Cheska: Okay fine! Don’t touch any of my things or I swear! Tsk, my precious make up kit. *as cheska said*

Prima: Grabe, para akong napa subok dun sa ginawa ni ma'am cheska, gagawin ko talagang mabuti ang aking trabaho.

*Prima wiped her brow, returning to her work after the tense encounter with Ms. Cheska.*

As Prima swept through the floors of the mansion, she notices someone staring at her from afar. She didn't react as she continued sweeping and cleaning. Next thing she knew, it was miss Amier. Prima was sweating badly yet, she remained calm as she assumes that she was just examining her for it was her first day.

A few minutes later, miss Amier started to approach her. Prima wanted to run away as she felt intense nervousness but it seemed as if her determination on a good impression made her stay still. She turned her head at the figure and greeted her.

P: G-Good morning, m-miss Amier!!

A: Good morning, Prima. May I ask what you're doing right now?

Prima looked at her walis-tambo.

P: Uuh- cleaning po.

A: Pwede ba kitang kausapin?

P: Pwede naman po.

Prima stopped sweeping and paid attention to the lady infront of her.

A: Nasabi mo na may dalawa kang kapatid. What are their names? Kung pwede mong sabihin.

P: Ahh…yung pong sumunod po sa’kin ay lalaki, pangalan niya po Uno. Tapos, yung bunso po namin, Isabella.

A: At…Zamora kayo diba?

P: …

Prima nodded, but she didn’t want to point out that Isabella had a different surname.

Then, Amier walked away, as if the awkward interaction never happened.

She just seemed like she wanted to know more about Prima and her background.

She continued to clean around the mansion.

TIMESKIP >>>

Today marks her second day for her new job. She woke up, feeling a bit happy she managed to get a job. Prima had a slight smile at her face yet, her mind wandered to her province. It’s only the second day, and she’s already feeling homesick. She showered and prepared for the day. She cooked breakfast and prepared a well-balanced meal, and the usual hotdogs for kids, as she is going to meet the child she’s taking care of today! She swept the floor, mopped the floor, and dusted each corner at the house. And before she knew it, miss Cheska was the first to go to the dining room. The meal was still hot and warm as the lady sat down. Prima finished her chore and tended to miss Cheska.

P: Ma’am, coffee, tea, or water po?

C: Coffee. Black coffee.

Prima nods and boiled some water as she took Val’s mug.

Minutes went by and Prima set the black coffee down the table, emitting an aroma that is the best for mornings.

There was a tense atmosphere as Prima decided to clean around the kitchen.

Soon, the little girl came inside the dining room as she was hungry.

C: Prima.

Prima’s ears perked up as she heard her boss’ call.

P: Yes, ma’am?

C: This is who you’re taking care of. Go on, honey, introduce yourself.

E: G-Good morning…m-miss- my name is…Bella…

Bella was a shy girl.

P: Good morning, miss Bella! I cooked you some breakfast!

Prima greeted, excited and cheerful.

Bella nodded and made her way to her seat, eating the prepared meal. Surprisingly, she didn’t hate vegetables like other kids do.

Prima was glad Bella was eating without complaining. She assumes her cooking was good.

Soon, Valeriana and Amier woke up and also ate breakfast, with Prima preparing them coffee and tea.

As Prima already finished her chores, she decides to play with Bella. But to her surprise, Bella didn’t play with toys like she did, she played with a smartphone. Different colors flashed at her device as her eyes never left the screen.

She was quiet, laughing from time-to-time as the video at her screen entertained her.

Prima let out a content sigh and decides to just monitor her digital activities.

Hours went by, it was already noon.

Prima was preparing their lunch and was also preparing to do the laundry: her next chore. She was sorting the clothes: from colored to whites and the ones that should be handwashed and washed in the washing machine.

0 notes

benefits1986 · 6 months ago

Text

morogonomic

When it rains, it floods.

One of the things I do when I combat the flu (and cortisol) is watching a good movie. Dad has been cooking more with the help of my recipes, and pre-prepared ingredients with exact measures and specific instructions because your noona has been kinda clunky recently. I have been able to slow down a bit and what better way to wind down than to watch a movie together on a stormy MNL night, right?

And so, the new interface of Netflix is fucked. LOL. I rarely watch movies lately because I need to get stuff in places I don't even know when, where, or how. CHZ. Crap on crap on crap is what Netflix is, generally speaking. LOL. Kaya mejj wala na rin ako pake. When I saw Brillante Ma Mendoza's Moro, I knew I was not going to have a "chill" viewing experience. I actually browsed again and again. I wanted something calming or something that won't make me think. However, ang gwapo ni Piolo tapos 'yung ilong niya, parang ginawa na naman. CHOZ. Mala-Pinnochio na e and super pointed. LOL.

Brillante's brilliance is one of the reasons why I love indie films. The shaky shots, the bokeh, the colors, the frame, the details. It's giving ethnographic research on super steroids, babyyyyyy! Kabogstra Viva, Seiko, and Star Cinema. EMS.

The first time I saw Serbis ages ago, sabi ko, JUSQ. Ano ba 'to? Bakit I can feel the UGH seeping into my system. Naggawa niyang mag-appeal sa 5 senses even when it was but another indie film. Looking back, taob Vivamax sa Serbis. Isa pa lang 'yan a. Tabi. Choopi. And may social relevance pa as in god-tier levels.

Siguro, kasi Serbis is housed in cinema rin kaya appealing sa akin. Pero super graphic niya na hanggang ngayon, kunot-noo pa rin ako. Para sa mga nagsasabing porn-ish ang Serbis, bobo niyong lahat. Hahahaha. Eat shit. Serbis is a movie that moves people. Lalabasan ka ng inis, galit, poot, at higit sa lahat pawis. Kasi naman, I kennat why naman ganun here sa earth mga ganaps? And the kambing in one of the scenes, just super graphic. It's horrific and terrific. Ganernnn.

Iniisip ko nga kung papanood ko sa tatay kong pakitong-kitong itong Serbis pero baka mastress lang siya kesa mag-enjoy. HAHAHAHA. Namention kasi ni dad a few weeks back na ang legit daw pala ni Mercedes Carbral. Sabi ko naman: You haven't seen her in her glory, yet! Hahahahahaha.

Si Brillante, unapologetic sa timeline ng pelikula niya. And proud siya diyan. May flow siya kung saan immersion ang laban ng kwento niya. HOOOHOOOHOOO. Kaya nga, indie 'di ba? Budget, medyo malaki. Hahahahahaha. Pero 'yung mga paganaps niya, pakkkk.

Hindi talaga ako nasa-starstruck masyado, let alone naiintimidate, pero mannnnn. The first time I saw him in the flesh, solid. Kasi, he lets his art speak for him. PAK. Nakipagkwentuhan to the max talaga ako kasi sobrang gusto ko makita details niya up close. LOL. As a fangirl po tayo e. Tapos usap-usap kami about his films. HUHUHUHU. Pigil-pigil pa akong tumili kasi in that moment, I am living the dreammmmm, babbyyyy. Simple lang pero solid.

I think first time ni Dad manood ng Brillante Ma Mendoza film. So, boogsh. Hahahahahaha. Puro kasi Seiko saka Vivamax trip neto. LOL.

Side Note: Years back, tinanong ako ng tatay ko bakit naman daw 'yung 50 Shades of Grey ang lala. I'm like wtf do you mean? Syempre, explain-explain siya. Me: Hay. It's is what it is. And the target market are women who are bottled up. Research shows that... ayun. PAKSHET NA MALAGKET. Galetwoman na naman me. Apaka bobo talaga manood. Hahahahahaha. Also, kako, baka na-insecure lang din siya because... Hahaha. Boogsh. Forda record, OA nung 50 Shades. Honestly. Jusq. Pero pang-mainstream kasi siya, so ayun. Next!

Sabi ko na humanda siya. Aba sabi ba naman, bakit wala pang nangyayari sa mga unang scenes. In fairness sa comment niya, totoo 'yan. Ganyan si Brillante. 'Di naman sing-bagal ni Kidlat Tahimik pero mabagal talaga first few minutes ng pelikula niya. He takes time to expose his narrative.

In true fashion, may papoetic vibe kung saan, ang goal ay pag-isipin ka agad-agad. LOL. Sa ending naman, lagi't laging open-ended na syempre, ayaw ng mga typical Pinoys. HAHAHAHAHA.

I won't go into the "spoiler" route pero ukilkilin natin ang paglikha ni Ma Mendoza. Hahahahahaha. Shemayyyy. 'Yung shots niya, parang nasa frame ka as a "wingman" or "wingwoman" kasi iba pag-shot niya. 'Yung para kang Marites. Tapos, 'yung shaky shots epek niya, minsan may sense, minsan wala.

I think pinaka gusto ko is 'yung lights. As in. Solb na solb. 'Di siya fancy, pero kaya niyang magpa-sepia sa foreground tapos muted pero popping background. HAHAHAHA. Eat shit mga ibang manlilikha. Puwedeng edited na 'to lalo these days, pero naisip pa niya talaga 'yun 'di ba?

'Yung depth of field niya mula super shallow to super deep abot kabilang universe. EMS. Ang galing kasi kita mo talaga. Pinagisipan. Ginalingan kahit minsan medyo pilit. HUY. Hahahahahaha. Gets ba? Ayun. Mahirap kasi lalo 'pag camera mo, ems lang. CHOZ. Pero mahirap kasi budget is usually a constrict rather than a construct. HUY. Sino ka na naman diyan?

Then, the frames. 'Di siya Wong Kar-wai na frame within a frame within a frame. Sa tingin ko kasi, walang ganito sa Philippine cinema. Wala pa. Baka paparating pa lang. *wink*wink* Hahahaha. 'Yung framing niya, reflective ng Philippine culture. Either super wide or super tight. EMS. Walang in between. Paano mo nga ba kasi ife-frame ang isang bansang sobrang lala ng curation of the poor, the middle class, and the upper class, 'di ba po? CHOZ.

Anyhow, set design and prod. Isa pa 'to. Ang boogsh. 'Di siya fancy, pero malapit sa realidad. 'Yung parang hiniram ang mga costume ng cast sa kapitbahayan. Ganern. Eat shit ulit. Hahahahahaha. Compared to Oro, Plata, Mata, hahahahahahahahaha. 'Yun na lang talaga. I come in peace. EMS.

Another thing kay Ma Me is 'yung grainy pero sharp vibe. Basta. Gets ba? Or baka ako lang na naman yan. Pati textured skin ni Piolo, hindi naklusot. Pati imperfection nung nunal ni Piolo, putok na putok. Pati pag-tulo ng mga sinampay na damit nung housewife ni Baron, poetic. Hahahaha. Parang may subtext lahat. EMS.

I remember one question thrown by an audience (not me, syempre) about a film, not sure if Brillante 'yun. Tinanong kung intentional ba raw or subtext 'yung pink-ish color grading. Sabi nung direktor, ah. Napansin mo rin? Actually, wala lang. Gusto ko lang ng ganung color para maiba. HAHAHAHA. Tawa naman ang audience. LOL.

Details. Ang pinaka simpleng sapul details is 'yung mga weeds as in damong ligaw na nasa lupa after nung shot ng mga Most Wanted. Sobrang liit na details lang nun, pero juskoooolordeeee. Take my soul. Ganerrnn.

So, what?

I really wanna see more films from the Philippines that are trending with a purpose. 'Di lang 'yung puro landian to the max o kaya naman, puro very good girls and bois. HUY. We deserve a better cinema experience even sa online. Actually, lalo sa online. Dapat naman e magkaroon na ng impit finally ang mga pelikulang may kwento AT may kwenta. As I keep saying, cinema is a reflection of one's identity --on a personal level, and a societal level.

Para naman sana, may bigat at buga na tayo sa pagbaha at pagbayo sa bansa lalo na't sobrang disaster-prone natin. Para naman sa mga new breed na pagmamanahan natin ng legacy na sana naman, may silbi, savay-savay. Para naman sa pag-stop right now ng mga kulay ni ganito at ni ganyan forda greater good. Para naman kako, masawata na talaga ang kanser ng lipunan na nakaatang sa mga mamayan at sa bawat buwis at boto or hindi nila pagboto. Para naman sana, baka bukas, mas piliin natin ang Pilipinas ng hindi sapilitan lang. Para naman, baka naman, baka lang, makausad na ng tuluyan ang Bapor Tabo patungo sa West Philippine Sea. CHOZ. Para naman, kesa mega cities na reclaimed naman (ulol) ang focus, sustainable living and working spaces ang pamana natin sa next generation, 'di po ba?

Umaaray at dumudugo na ang middle class. Pati mga alta-ish, mejj nase-stress na sa lagay ng shit dito. LOL. Kaya naman, ano na? Ano ba? Ano pa? Ano? Suntukan? Ang agaaaa. Abangan! PS1: Fave shot ko sa Moro is 'yung part na may mother and son na parang Jesus and Mary pero Muslim. Basta. No spoiler. Abangan n'yo na lang kung masisipat niyo. Hihihihihihi.

PS2: Walang PS2 for today. Bukas na lang siguro. CHZ.

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