It’s no surprise that the quest for happiness is in everyone’s wish list. Of course, our happiness all depends on our needs and wants. In our journey, we come across different paths, choose various turns and hit numerous walls. But what are we searching for?

Whatever mission it is [that] you need to undertake, please take caution. The desire to achieve conjures one’s strength, hope, abilities and courage. But for some, this same desire blooms into greed and that’s when we tip the balance of life. Before I get to my point, I would like to get you acquainted with some teachings we have out there. (more…)

by Bless Salonga

Where art thou, PEPE?

During my younger years, I had my favourite “things” such as Mathematics, Drama, Journalism, Debating and Dancing. I could ace my Trigonometry exam without even studying but unfortunately, History was my waterloo. I couldn’t see the logic of studying the past when I was a very active child always looking forward to the future. But as I grew older, I learned to understand the essence of our old Filipino saying “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinang-galingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan,” translated as “He who does not look back into his past, cannot reach his destination.” (more…)

But what does it mean to be a Filipino? What values do I uphold? What am I known for? What do I contribute to society? Am I really proud to be a Filipino?

It’s weird but when I ask people these questions, I get answers such as “I am Filipino because I love lechon and bagoong”. Others would reply, “we are known for being domestic helpers in Hong Kong, labourers in Saudi and for our mail order brides across the globe.” Wow! Not so good so far. Then I have the occasional, “we are known for our great artists and musicians.” Yes! Finally, something positive! And of course, there’s a mixture of responses like “well, we have traffic, jeepney, the EDSA revolution, Pacquiao, ballot, Boracay, a corrupt government and bribery amongst officials. (more…)

Charity Starts at Home by Bless Salonga
26 September 2009. It was the eve of Sweetmojo Band’s preparation to launch their 2nd Extended Play album (EP), when we received news from Manila that typhoon Ondoy was causing havoc. Without warning, water level rose very quickly. People were trapped on roof tops or stranded inside their vehicles. Family members waited to hear from their loved ones as the death toll rose as rapidly as the flood waters did. Not a few people found it difficult to make an overseas call because of overcrowded lines and widespread blackouts. We saw the videos and heard the devastating news – so the Sweetmojo Band decided to help in whatever way they could. (more…)