Skip to main content

When God Shows Up: My Real-Life Moments of Grace

By
  In one of Fr. Jerry M. Orbos, SVD’s books — Just a Moment — he asks a powerful question: “Was there a moment in your life when you experienced God in a very real and personal way?” My answer is a wholehearted yes — not just once, but many times.   I didn’t grow up religious. I wasn’t taught to rely on God’s grace. As a child, life felt messy, hopeless, and out of control. I wanted to grow up fast so I could fix the things I hated most — especially the way we were living. Back then I didn’t know it, but God was already working behind the scenes.   The first time I truly felt His presence was in 2008, when I passed the bar exam. That year, the passing rate was unexpectedly adjusted — something I saw as God’s perfect timing. Honestly, if that didn’t happen, I don’t know how I would have survived it. It was a turning point that made me believe God sees us, hears our whispered prayers, and knows how much we struggle. From that day, I promised myself to live ri...
Post a Comment

Sun, Laughter, and Team Spirit: Our Unforgettable Weekend at Serenidad Beach Resort

Image
By



Last weekend, our office had its much-awaited annual team building, and this time, we escaped to the serene shores of Serenidad Beach Resort in Brgy. Malabrigo, Lobo, Batangas. What made it even more special? I brought my whole family along—and yes, they absolutely loved it!

Just last December, we celebrated our Christmas party in Lobo too, but this time we stayed at a different resort. At Serenidad, we got the whole Orange Villa to ourselves for ₱23,200. The place comfortably fit 14 of us (kids aged 10 and below stay for free—yay for budget wins!).

Here’s a quick villa tour:
🛏️ 3 double beds, 2 queen beds in the loft, and 1 queen bed in a cozy room with its own bathroom
🍽️ Mini kitchen, dining area, and living space
🚿 2 common shower rooms and 2 toilets
🌄 A balcony with a mountain view that’s perfect for your morning coffee

They allow guests to bring and cook their own food, which was a big plus for us—we saved a lot that way! Inside, there’s a TV with YouTube and Netflix (though not much other entertainment, but who needs that when nature’s right outside?). There’s a swimming pool for both kids and adults, and the beach is just a short walk away. The water was so clear we could see small fish swimming by! Just a tip: Lobo is known for its pebbly shores, so bring your swimming footwear.

MCTC Malvar-Balete Got Talent (MGT) stole the show this year instead of the usual obstacle courses. Staff were grouped in pairs to showcase their hidden talents, competing for a ₱2,000 cash prize—though no one left empty-handed, as non-winners got ₱500 per pair.

Here’s how it went down:
🎤 Ate Majo & Vince delivered a hilarious take on The Greatest Love of All—impressive coordination even though they live in different towns!
💃 Ate Eva & Nap lit up the stage with a remix dance number.
🕺 Kuya Luis & Ate Judith, a real-life couple, surprised everyone with a “midget dance” act complete with DIY props. They made puppets using clothes hangers, black cloth, and a dim light. Despite a few behind-the-scenes arguments (totally relatable!), they pulled it off and took home the top prize.
👶 The last pair Emen and VG, also a couple, couldn't perform because their baby needed sleep—parenting always comes first!

We all enjoyed our time in the pool, shared stories by the beach, and even went on a short boat ride for some snorkeling around nearby islands. We passed by the vacation homes of celebs like Amy Perez and Amy Austria! We had plans to visit the iconic lighthouse, but the waves weren’t on our side.

For my kids, this annual getaway is something they always look forward to—since we rarely travel out of town, it's a big deal. My youngest even swam independently for the first time! He was already asking about the next team building even before we left!

Before heading home, we had a hearty meal at Ungkot, a cozy restaurant near the town hall. We feasted on sisig, chopsuey, fried chicken, sinigang na bangus belly, sinigang na hipon, bulalo, and fish fillet with tartar sauce. Of course, we ended with ice cream and coffee—fuel for the long drive back to Cavite (and other towns like Malvar, Lipa, Tanauan, and Victoria).

It was a weekend well spent—with laughter, bonding, talent, and unforgettable memories. I hope everyone got the chance to relax, even just a little. And just like my kids, I’m already looking forward to the next one.

Not a paid ad—just sharing a slice of our happy weekend. 🌴💙

 

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Single ka? G na ‘yan! 😂 Bakit Masaya ang Walang Jowa?

By
Valentine’s Day is here again, and while couples are stressed about fully booked restaurants, overpriced flowers, and cheesy Instagram posts , tayo namang mga single? CHILL LANG. 😎 But let’s be real—every February, titas, lolas, at random kapitbahays come in full force with their favorite questions: 💬 "May boyfriend/girlfriend ka na ba?" 💬 "Kailan ka magpapakasal?" 💬 "Sayang ka, ang ganda/gwapo mo pa naman!" Pero relax lang, mga besh! Being single isn’t a tragedy—it’s actually a blessing in disguise! Let’s break it down and celebrate why #SingleAndThriving is the way to go. 💃🕺 💖 1️⃣ More Savings, Less Gastos Miley Cyrus Style! 🎶 No more mandatory gifts, date night expenses, or surprise plans that break the bank. Instead, follow Miley Cyrus’s golden rule: 🎶 "I can buy myself flowers…" 🎶 "Write my name in the sand…" Dahil walang jowa, walang gastos ! Instead of spending for someone else, you can: ✔ Book a solo staycat...
Post a Comment
Read more

When Safety Becomes a Prayer: A Personal Reflection on Road Accidents, Reckless Driving, and the Need for Change

By
  The past few weeks have been heartbreaking. We’ve seen headlines filled with tragic accidents at SCTEX, NAIA, and other major roads—lives lost in an instant, families forever changed. It’s a painful reminder that no matter how careful we are behind the wheel, we’re never fully in control—not when there are reckless drivers, neglected vehicles, and a system that sometimes lets safety fall through the cracks. As the country mourns these senseless tragedies, we offer our deepest sympathy to the victims and the families they’ve left behind. It's impossible not to feel the weight of their grief. These were innocent people—parents, children, workers, travelers—whose lives were taken too soon. We grieve with them. And we ask the questions: How did this happen again? Could this have been prevented? These events have rightly prompted government agencies to take action. There are renewed discussions about stricter licensing policies, the need for better oversight in vehicle registratio...
Post a Comment
Read more

Strengthening Family Bonds Through the Five Love Languages

By
Love is often spoken about in grand terms, but it's true essence lies in how it is expressed and received. Since it is love month, it is the perfect time to talk about love and how to express it meaningfully. Many family relationships suffer not from a lack of love, but from a lack of understanding how love is communicated. Dr. Gary Chapman, a renowned author, speaker, and counselor, introduced the concept of the Five Love Languages in his book The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts . His work provides valuable insight into how people give and receive love differently. When applied within the family, these languages can bridge emotional gaps, strengthen relationships, and foster a deeper connection among family members. Understanding these love languages can help parents, spouses, and children appreciate each other’s way of showing affection. Rather than feeling unappreciated or misunderstood, families can learn to recognize and reciprocate love in a way that resonate...
Post a Comment
Read more