My Mulberry (tea) Nights

UP Naming Mahal

2008 marks the centennial anniversary of the University of the Philippines. This was where it all began for me. This was where I turned into who I am. The site that determined the path of my life. For many UP students this is where their eyes were opened to many realities, and many never looked back.

One of the earliest education in the university is about the UP Oblation, the statue which symbolizes selfless dedication to the people, without need for anything else but the search for knowledge in order to "serve the people". More than fifteen years since I finished my university studies I still strive to remain faithful to the ideals of the Oblation. It remains as my guide and my beacon.

The UP Hymn is memorized by every "iskolar ng bayan" but the meaning is only taken to heart by a few. It is the song that binds me to the reasons I am here.

UP Naming Mahal

U.P. naming mahal, pamantasang hirang

Ang tinig namin, sana'y iyong dinggin

Malayong lupain, amin mang marating

Di rin magbabago ang damdamin

Di rin magbabago ang damdamin

Luntian at pula, sagisag magpakailanman

Ating ipagdiwang, bulwagan ng dangal

Humayo't itanghal, giting at tapang

Mabuhay ang pag-asa ng bayan

Mabuhay ang pag-asa ng bayan.

Incredible India

From the food, the saris, transportation, music, and shopping. Whether it was 40+ degrees or not, the people and the places felt very warm and exciting.

Incredible indeed!