June 14, 2025 was the last day to avail of the Estate Tax Amnesty under Republic Act No. 11569. Processing our estate tax payment with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) was by far the most difficult transaction I have ever experienced despite completing all the documentary requirements. Ironically, what was supposed to be a straightforward application facilitated by an acquaintance — for a fee — was only accomplished through the assistance of the kind and efficient employees of the Local Government of Uyugan, Batanes in securing the required supporting documents. I personally prepared the Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate during the pandemic, but securing the certified true copy of the tax declaration, certificate of no improvement, tax clearance, and death and birth certificates of the deceased and heirs took much longer. Special thanks are due to the Local Civil Registrar, Municipal Assessor and Bureau of Treasury Head in Uyugan, who accommodated my online requests profess...
After a short break from blogging due to health issues, I’ve come to realize just how much our mental and emotional well-being impact our physical health. What started as a simple muscle spasm and occasional palpitations—things I had often dismissed as normal after a long, tiring week—gradually became a wake-up call that I could no longer ignore. Before the end of 2024, my schedule was packed. Between preparing for a sports fest where our office was the host and physically training with my team, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment in strengthening our bond and working towards a common goal. But just as I was basking in that satisfaction, I received unexpected, difficult news. Wanting to protect the holiday spirit for my loved ones, I suppressed my emotions, focusing instead on supporting those who needed me. The exhaustion caught up with me, and by Christmas break, I was down with the flu. I usually schedule my annual physical exam after my birthday, but since I had just undergone o...