Back in college, I stumbled upon a poetry book that changed my life. I was a freshman at a Catholic university in Iloilo City, still fumbling through the labyrinth of my own sexuality, when I found a slim volume tucked away in a dusty corner of the campus library, a
June 21, 2025
Over the past few days, as I’ve been making the effort to consistently return to the gym, I’ve come to a surprisingly important realization: having a gym buddy can make a huge difference in your fitness journey. And no, I’m not just talking about having someone to chat with during
June 19, 2025
I don’t know how many of us listen to podcasts or audiobooks while we work out, but honestly, I highly recommend it. It’s like hitting two birds with a single dumbbell, you’re working your body and your brain at the same time. I usually listen to an audiobook during my warm-up and cool-down.
June 17, 2025
If you’ve been following my column for the past two weeks, you probably know I’m currently on a diet. Gone are the crispy lechon and rich sisig. My plate these days consists of chicken breast, boiled eggs, oatmeal, and the superstar of my diet — láswa. For those who aren’t
June 16, 2025
I don’t know what kind of sorcery the weather gods are playing with, but for some odd reason, rain motivates me to go to the gym. Weird, right? While most people associate rain with naps, champorado, or binge-watching shows under a blanket, I’m out here thinking, “Perfect weather for squats!”
June 13, 2025
On May 20, 2025, the Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature officially opened its annual competition, once again inviting Filipino writers to participate in one of the most prestigious literary events in the country. Though the announcement came later than expected, it sparked renewed debate among writers and literary scholars: Does the Palanca Awards still
June 12, 2025
Let me be real with you, I mentally prepared myself for this week like a student facing finals with only three hours of sleep and a stale cup of coffee. This is my second week at the gym, and it’s no longer the “honeymoon phase.” This is the real deal.
June 11, 2025
This weekend, Saturday and Sunday, I’m finally taking a break. Pahinga, at last. But before I slip into full-on relaxation mode, I plan to hit the grocery store for some essentials for the coming week: chicken breast, eggs (lots of them), rolled oats, coffee, kamote, laswa, and green tea. These are the sacred items listed
June 9, 2025
I woke up today feeling a little excited to get back to the gym. Last night, I caught myself thinking about how crucial that first conversation is between a coach and a trainee. My chat with Coach Dawn really stuck with me. From the get-go, I felt comfortable with her,
June 8, 2025
Today is June 5 and it officially marks Day One of my gym journey. I honestly just planned to walk in and maybe inquire about prices. You know, the usual Tingin-tingin lang po strategy. But nope. Coach Dawn must have majored in Motivational Speech because in five minutes, she
June 7, 2025
On several late afternoons and quiet evenings, I have found myself walking or jogging around Graciano López Jaena Park, more commonly known as Jaro Plaza. Amid the buzz of vendors, the soft rustle of trees, and the relaxed chatter of passersby, one sound disrupts the atmosphere in a way that
June 5, 2025
