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Another Mission Accomplished: Our DFA Passport Experience

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    Another mission checked off our family’s list this year—we finally renewed our passports! It had been over a decade since we last had them updated, and this time, it was extra special because our youngest applied for his very first passport. Back when we were just a family of three, our first (and last) trip abroad was to Hong Kong. Our eldest was just a year old then. Since that trip, life got busy, and renewing our passports kept getting pushed back—year after year. Booking a passport appointment these days isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Everything has to be done online, and every time I checked the DFA website, the slots in the satellite office near us were always fully booked. Eventually, I gave up trying—until a colleague mentioned DFA San Pablo City in Laguna. It's about an hour and a half (or two, depending on traffic) from our place. Out of curiosity, I checked their schedule and, to my surprise, found several open slots. I didn’t waste a second—I booked o...
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MMFF 2024: "The Kingdom" and "Espantaho" - A Double Feature Review

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Our family ventured into the cinematic world of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024, watching "The Kingdom" and "Espantaho." Here's our take:


"The Kingdom" (3/5 stars) Vic Sotto and Piolo Pascual's alternate history film explores a Philippines untouched by colonization. Sotto shines in an unconventional role, while Pascual delivers his signature excellence. Sue Ramirez outperforms Kristine Reyes, and Sid Lucero's brief appearance impresses.
The movie's potential is hindered by a concise script, limiting the actors' showcase. Overall, "The Kingdom" sparks intriguing discussions, but its brevity falls short.



"Espantaho" (4/5 stars)

Judy Ann Santos, Lorna Tolentino, Chanda Romero, Donna, and Eugene Domingo dazzle in this chilling thriller. Our younger viewers were genuinely frightened, while adults may find the plot somewhat predictable – until the jaw-dropping finale.
The cast's superb performances elevate "Espantaho" to a thrilling experience, despite minor shortcomings.


That's a wrap! 'The Kingdom' and 'Espantaho' delivered memorable experiences. Looking forward to next year's MMFF!

#MMFF2024
#filmreview
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#TheKingdom
#Espantaho
#personalmoviereview
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