Untested but Recovered

Now it can be told. I may have been infected by Covid-19 back in April but went untested and now already recovered. 

Sore throat and mild fever

It was back in March 30th when my throat started to feel clogged like I swallowed a bulb of garlic. I just got home from the office where I am still reporting for work while the rest of our household are under mandatory community quarantine imposed by government. After walking home (public transports were already banned then) and bathing, pain in my throat intensified like the beginning of a nasty cold. 

I am no stranger to sore throats having suffered continuously from allergic rhinitis and the usual bouts of tonsilitis yet that pain is somewhat different as if there's a wound inside my tonsils. I'm aware of the kind of virus that covid-19 is and how it usually attacks the infected person's body from the throat so I took the necessary precautions - gargling w/antibacterial solution, apart from taking warm lemon ginger tea w/spoonful of Manuka honey throughout the day, all while consciously keeping safe distance from my niece and my brother and sister who live with me. We already prepared for the onslaught of the virus by stocking up on the vitamin c (Blackmores Bio-C to be exact) and other anti-infection essentials apart from the health and safety precautions like washing hands thoroughly, sanitizing and all that jazz, so somehow I know I'm geared to face any contamination. 

But I must also mention that prior to the government's announcement of total lockdown that initially begun on March 15th, I was already experiencing on and off fever that begun in late February then another round of fever with chills in mid-March so I feel that my immune system is compromised.

Extreme headache

On the next day, March 31st, woke up to a massive headache that I attributed to migraine. Thankfully, we work from home every other day during those weeks from March 16th while Enhanced Community Quarantine is in effect in our city, and I'm not required at the office that day while I suffered from one of my worst migraines in recent years. 

I was already feeling a bit weak and just stayed in bed while intermittently answering work emails and viber group chat. I still can perform some of these tasks even with a migraine because of my higher pain threshold being allergic to painkillers. I noticed this time though that the headache seems different as typically I have migraine attacks during my period and I am not on my period then. Also,  my regular migraine headaches last a maximum of only 10 hours or less after I sleep on it. But on that instance, my head throbbed painfully the whole day and extended unto the next day, Wednesday, April 1st. 

Two days of migraine is not normal for me with pain extending to both sides of the back of my head above the nape almost covering the entire head.  The following day, pain went down to my left cheek like a sinusitis. It is quite unbearable like someone is punching you on your cheek. That sinus pain lasted for a day and then gradually subsided the next day. When the pain went away with only mild tiredness left that's when I experienced loss of both my sense of taste and smell. 

Lost sense of smell and taste 

The lost taste and smell lasted for more than a week. I realized then that that it could probably be covid-19 as that is the first time I had anosmia. It was a very disturbing feeling especially when I tried to eat and couldn't taste a single thing. Even coffee seems just like drinking warm water. All i did was feel the texture of each bite just to imagine the taste. Extremely infuriating and alarming is the lost smell that even if I put soap or shampoo in my nose I couldn't smell it. And the fear that I may have lost both senses completely and permanently. I consulted online w/a doctor from the DOH and after asking me questions I was advised that my symptoms may indeed be covid-19, (that I may be PUI), but since I do not experience difficulty breathing and no fever, I was just asked to monitor and contact them if my condition worsens. That was fine as I have no plans of admitting myself into a hospital with health workers and emergency rooms already overwhelmed by severe cases and I don't want to add to that. I must say however that even without fever I find looking around that everything seems to be in sepia color. You know that feeling of looking around you and the world appears in faded color of brownish hue, like you're walking inside an old film. As if I was high with fever although my temperature was normal. I do feel  mild dehydration and my lips were dry for many days so I continue to hydrate w/Gatorade or Pocari Sweat plus lots of water. 

Night times also seem to be the hardest when anxiety levels were at a high fearing that I may no longer wake up as my breathing becomes more labored close to bedtime. There was also a feeling throughout my ordeal as if  someone has a heavy hand clamped down on my chest. Those were so far the only  worst symptoms I can recall aside from the massive headaches, sinus pain and loss of taste and smell. 

I just worked on managing these symptoms - overloaded myself w/ vitamins especially vitamin C, lots of fresh fruits, continuous daily regimen of lemon ginger tea and rested early. I normally sleep past midnight but on those two weeks or so of having that weird condition, I slept earlier than my usual bed time (while praying that I wake up the next day). 

I also continued eating, not skipping any meals, even if I cannot taste the food, just to maintain my daily nutrients. Somehow, I feel that my walk to and from office (wearing mask of course and with limited contact to others, usually at more than one meter) helped in the form of exercise and I got a good dose of vitamin D from direct exposure to morning sunlight. That may have helped me cope well the condition. 

Looking back on those days when pandemic was first announced by the WHO, it may be safe to say I'm one of the lucky ones to have survived the onslaught of the virus in my system, although not sure if there's any health complications later on. Others aren't as fortunate. It is always best to continue being vigilant against this virus, even if we don't get tested yet be aware that we are always exposed to it. To maintain health and safety precautions, with or without a vaccine, quarantined or not. 

I may have been infected, untested, recovered, but I have learned that our health and those around us should never be neglected and safety measures not taken for granted. 

And through it all it is best to keep the faith and be grateful to God that we continue to wake up and breathe easy. When somewhere, someone may have just breathed their last.

My 2019 Personal Top Song Choices

About 20 days to go before we usher in the year 2020. Now time again to recap my personal top song choices of 2019. As usual, this list is once more a mix of genres, and always a reflection of different moods and moments that encapsulate this year. A lot of these songs have lorded the airwaves and made it to the top of other people's choices as well while some didn't quite hit mainstream yet somehow played itself into my bloodstream. Yes, music is always personal anyway. Some songs we keep hearing on the radio or streamed online and lodged itself on our waking moments, while there are those tunes we hear that speak to our hearts. These are the songs that personally magnified, enhanced or inspired my mood for the year. Songs that also fueled my emotions, worthy of belting out inside my inner sanctuary (a.k.a. bathroom or acoustic chamber). And it's wonderful how certain songs are also worth dancing to. here they are in no particular order..

1)Dancing with a Stranger - Sam Smith & Normani
this song kind of set the mood for 2019. catchy but with the heartbreak-y undertones. Vocals of Normani & Sam Smith really take the music to another level. Perfect for those moments while you're swaying to its beat as silent tears fall from your eyes.



2) Nights Like This - Kehlani/Ty Dolla $ign - a song that is about pining for an ex whom you no longer can have. there is something about the tune- that's mid-tempo and just the right mellow R& B that fits Kehlani's voice just so well.



3) bad guy - Billie Eilish - this is the wunderkind of music. Who could have known she's only 17 years old yet making the kind of songs that just shake the status quo. Not the sweetie pop, none of those teen angst and sappy teenage love songs for this young lady. there's a bit of Lorde & Alanis in the vibe of her music. Always fun to listen to when you just don't know what she's gonna say next kind of song.


4) Trip - Ella Mai - she's gotta be the princess of R&B this 2019. The vocals that match catchy & jazzy tune of this song is really worth the sound trip (pun intended). I feel that there should be more of these types of song on the mainstream radio. And the music video intro with the turntable and vinyl playing = perfect.

5) Shot Clock - Ella Mai - I love the reference to basketball. Being a basketball fan, song definitely got my attention. Plus, it's always nice listening to Ella Mai's voice. This song is perfect for giving the ultimatum to your guy when he seems stuck in the status quo - and if you want to take the relationship further along or else let other guys take a shot. Love it.

6) Find U Again - Camila Cabello/Mark Ronson - a kind of groovv sound fit for partying at a club. even if the song is about pining for an ex that one can no longer have. simply catchy, the kind of vibe that makes you sway slowly, glass of wine or whiskey in hand with a hope that it cures your heartache. A song that lets you dance the pain away.

7) Señorita - Camila Cabello/Shawn Mendes - this has gotta be another Camila year (and with a Time cover to boot!) and finally a culmination of the love affair between these two talented young artists. I like the Spanish vibe simply because I also love it when you call me Señorita. A song that you can easily dance to, something that just feels good and not let you overthink things. And I also love the vocals of both singers.

8) 7 Rings - Ariana Grande - this had me at the intro sampling of Sound of Music - 'my Favorite things' tune. Plus will always be partial to Ariana's vocal prowess. Each time she comes out with a song, there's always a great chance of it landing among my year-end songs of the year. This definitely makes me say 'I see it, I like it; I want it, I got it'., yeah, you got it.. also an ideal theme song for the Add-to-cart troops (read: online shoppers) LOL


9) needy - Ariana Grande - this young lady never fails to satisfy my musical cravings. And it's not only about her voice but the meaning of the song. in a world where people can often get criticized for being too needy, this song tells how it feels good to be needed and also how it's perfectly okay and normal to need someone. that craving we all feel for something and someone special.

10) Good Thing - Kehlani - the song pays homage to all the singles out there. Single ladies who aren't really looking for the other half (Yet!). Just simply enjoying what she has knowing she already have the best that life can offer. So let no one tell her that he's got something good to offer coz chances are, she's got better and she is the best. periodt.

11) Lover - Taylor Swift - a relaxing tune from this artist of the decade- sort of coming back to her old days on this one and deviating from the rants of the past months. In this song you can actually picture yourself on a house by the countryside with you and your lover sitting on the steps of the balcony just enjoying a quiet time. Listening to the song seems to evoke an image of you and him spending the wee hours of the morning holding hands and having a sublime experience staring at the stars right after new year's celebration.

12) hooked/ good lover - Jess Connelly I just love the vibe of this song. a perfect backdrop to all that the heart wants to say. soothing, with a hint of R&B and a voice that matches the beautiful face of the singer. it's about enjoying the moment with someone and not caring at all if it's for keeps. I couldn't quite find the title previously but been LSS'ing on this song for weeks since late October to early December. We need more of these on the airwaves. I'm just hooked.

13) Sucker - Jonas Brothers - this had me at the lines 'and you're making a typical me break my typical rules'. That kind of feeling when you're just too enamored with someone that everything he says is like a mantra for you to follow..yeah coz I'm just a sucker for romance.. and a sucker for this song. Didn't help that you got those cute brothers belting out those lines. But then I also like Halsey's cover of this song that she performed live on BBC Radio One. Either way this song definitely does not suck.

14) Please me - Bruno Mars/Cardi B - an R & B collaboration that also helped set the tone of my musical inclinations this 2019. Bruno Mars and his old soul, channeling the Motown vibe and perfectly molding it as his own. The soft, sensual vibe and ably lent with a rough around the edges rap of Cardi B just pleases me all throughout.

15) Talk - Khalid - okay, I admit being slightly more partial to some soul & R&B tunes and this one fit to a T when it comes to the genre. The lazy drawl of Khalid combined with some catchy beat and electric synths reminiscent of the 80s just makes you want to stop the talk and listen in rapt attention.

16) Without Me - Halsey - there is a raw emotion in the song that makes you realize how some of the best pop tunes often come from heartaches. This is clearly the case in Without Me, where Halsey sings about that relationship that clearly broke her heart. of that someone whom she helped who took advantage of her. Ouch. When someone sings about that, you can simply empathize or even enjoy the music.

16) Juicy - Doja Cat - the song is not only juicy, catchy and flirty but offers a self-love kind of vibe. A kind of a playful song but with a deeper message - a message to oneself to flaunt your beauty and realize that you have what it takes. Yeah, that body confidence kind of thing.

17) Kill this Love - Blackpink - there's only a few K-pop acts I enjoy listening to as sometimes I find a lot of them almost mimicking each other. But Blackpink is among those groups that stand out most especially that they are a girl group when most of the success stories we see of Korean pop groups are males. This song initially didn't catch my attention but it is the kind that when you get to listen to the 3rd time or so somehow endears itself to your ears. Also helped that there's an EDM mixed with hip-hop and rap that perks up the ear drums. Nice to dance to and really a pick-me-up kind of song you just can't kill the vibe. So hooray to Lisa, Jisoo, Jennie and Rosé.

18) Boy with Luv - BTS/Halsey - now that we're into the subject of K-Pop, this group needs no further intro. And then collaborating with Halsey suddenly made it such a great hit. I kind of like how it combines the grooves that BTS is known for yet managed to insert something new into the mix - that somehow recaptures certain songs in the 80s or early 90s. Proof that music spans generations, genres and generalizations.

19) Harleys in Hawaii - Katy Perry - I first heard this song sometime after my birthday this year. And it took me back to the summer days. Like literally rewinding the months from September to March-April days. All the mention of Hawaii of course would bring images of the beach and cool cocktails. There's that guitar riff at the start then sliding on to a faster tempo as Katy sings a sultry sonata for a loved one. Now if I can't yet fly to Hawaii and ride Harleys, I won't mind riding a Ducati in Makati, yes and with this song still playing in the background as we speed up on our own heart-shaped highway.

21) Selos - the vowels they orbit - this indie-pop rock band's song somehow wove its way into my consciousness as it constantly played on the radio mid-year. And I like how it playfully tackled a rather tricky emotion- jealousy. The song talks about the distress one feels on a love-triggered emotion that affects the mood big time. I love the part when the lead vocalist sang 'ipapaanod na ba sa alak, baka sakali may makita pang ngiti..' anyone who has ever felt jealous would so relate.

22) Circles - Post Malone - a sad song but will always be drawn to the theme. As I said some of the best songs often are written when there's a painful or sad episode in life. And this one is about that relationship when you want the one you're with to just call it off as you're just both going around in circles. Yet no one is making the first move to say goodbye. When one doesn't want to be blamed for causing the break-up so you just go on and on in circles. and so that's how it got this song playing on loop

There are other songs I've enjoyed immensely throughout the year and some new ones just coming in. but these are just a shortlist of what I mostly listen to on Spotify or watched on YouTube or listen to on the radio. Songs that captured the attitude of the moment.

Until then.. let's keep on playing, singing, dancing and listening to music through 2020 and beyond!!

My 2018 Songs of the Year

As we near touchdown 2018, and welcome in the new year, it's time again for my annual top songs of the year. The songs that pretty much made up most of my playlist, those I've listened to whether by choice or by circumstance (read: songs playing on the office radio) throughout the year. Here, in no particular order are my personal top songs of 2018 starting with the 18 most listened to, sang with, danced (okay, just swayed to) tunes:

1) NEVER BE THE SAME - Camila Cabello -

This song spearheaded the self-titled album of this pretty young singer/artist at the first quarter of the year. One couldn't help but catch your ear buds - this song speaks of that certain addiction to somebody. it just captures the kind of feeling you have for someone that can be both exhilarating but somewhat dangerous. Having 'nicotine' and 'heroin' on the lyrics helped inject (pun intended) more chutzpah to an otherwise young lady's sentiments.


2) THE MIDDLE - Zedd ft. Maren Morris & Grey -
Zedd may very well be our EDM artist of this decade. and the song is not exactly what you'd just push back to the middle of the pack and forget about. Because it emits enough melody and tune and that vibe to make you put it front and center of your playlist. Maren Morris' vocals also make this a perfect collaboration. As the lyrics say, 'I'm losing my mind just a little' being caught up in the middle of this song all year long.

3) MEANT TO BE - Bebe Rexha ft. Florida Georgia Line - The country drawl ain't no mistaking the influence of this singer but this is something that spans various genre. Meant to Be is just meant to be an ear candy, a perfect song to listen to while you're on a road trip or lounging about at home while waiting for some action. Something to prime you up for another romantic adventure notwithstanding the misfiring pasts love affairs.


4) GIRLS LIKE YOU - Maroon 5 -
As if the song isn't catchy enough, the music video also made it even more great to listen to while slowly swaying to the beat. Adam Levine would always have that sweet soft spot for the music lover in me.


5) IDGAF - Dua Lipa One of those young, beautiful artists making headway with her songs this year is Dua Lipa. The song remains a perfect clap back to that good for nothing ex. Never mind that this singer totally ignored her own words and decided to still give a f*ck to her ex and now present lover. At least we can always have this song as shout-out to good for nothing jerks.


6) FEELS SO GOOD - Honne fr. Anna of the North The title says it all. It just feels so good listening to this song. Especially when you start the track and listen to the soft pouring of rain. And one couldn't help but relate to that special moment when the song says 'these are the moments I cherish..your kissing me goodnight..' just so good and helped me endure this rather blah year.


7) BOO'D UP - Ella Mai The British singer captivates with her voice and simple narration of songs mixing perfectly with the melody & that alt-R&B vibe. Boo'd up is that one song you would love to hear in the background as you slowly fall in love.


8) CROSS YOUR MIND - Sabrina Claudio The Latin beat of this song, especially when it was played in the background of a bar scene in Fifty Shades Freed is hard to miss. The young singer also has a very distinct vocal and a sultriness to her style that I love. This song (along with the Spanish version) is one of those pre-summer tunes that just made me sing and sway with it.


9) CONSEQUENCES - Camila Cabello Again, Camila like I predicted in 2017 made some dent in the music industry this year. Also has won awards and have been recognized worldwide for her contribution to the art. I especially love how this song echoes anyone's sentiments with its simple depiction of a toxic relationship. Loving this song though certainly has no negative consequences.


10) CAPITAL LETTERS - Hailee Steinfeld Another song in the soundtrack of Fifty Shades Freed that I enjoyed. Just the kind of upbeat feeling it gives you like a love you're always sure is spelled out for you right from the very start in BIG, BOLD Capital letters. It feels like a romp, a romantic getaway somewhere in the beach or in a European villa.


11) THE WEEKEND - Sza Forbidden love, perhaps? or a case of being a spare tire. but hey, Sza's vocals is enough to get you in the mood to sing along to this song. and somehow takes you into the shoes of that side chick while making sure to remind you how special you are - one that is reserved only for the best moments and not on dreary weekdays - that is, the weekends. With lyrics that say 'you're like 9 to 5 and I'm the weekend', because, well, why not?


12) BEST PART - Daniel Caesar feat. H.E.R. Both artists really are the best partners. The song is perfect, and even talks about two of my favorite drinks - coffee and water 'You're the coffee that I need in the morning and 'you're my water when I'm stuck in the desert'. Definitely an ode to a best love affair.


13) AGAIN - Kehlani Any song that reminds me of that on again-off again relationship is bound to make it to my top songs year-end list. Especially when you got that music and vocals vibin' together. Kehlani is just one talented young lady also meant to stay in the music industry for a long time. I just wouldn't mind listening and singing to this song, again and again..and again.


14) LOST IN JAPAN - Shawn Mendes Even that remix version with Zedd is up there. Love this young guy's music. and how I would want to be a part of that narrative of getting lost in Japan. Wish I could however say those words in real life, 'all it takes is one flight, we'd be in the same time zone..' when you're in a long-distance relationship it's easy enough to relate to this song. now if only I can just book a flight and hotel to Japan easily like he does in this song, then it would be much better.


15) GOD IS A WOMAN - Ariana Grande Because Ariana is also an angel of God. Love this ode to womanhood. The song, by its mere existence really just proves how more relevant women are this year and how these kinds of song, while challenging certain status quo, is made to actually just prove reality.


16) NEW RULES - Dua Lipa As mentioned, the singer may have broken her own rules in this song, but who cares? rules sometimes are made to be broken anyway. but all that aside, this beat just make you want to set the rules as far as listening to music is concerned. and by that we mean, the rule of listening hard, loud & with a choreograph to match.. like 1, don't pick up the phone while I'm enjoying the music.



17) FAKING IT - Calvin Harris feat. Kehlani & Lil Yachty Those bass grooves right from the start is ear-catching. And you won't even have to fake listening to it because this simply is just too good to not pay attention to. The emotional vocals of Kehlani give it a great lead. this is one of those songs that set the tone in 2018. Of collaborations that turn into fine art.


18) ALL MY FRIENDS - Snakeships feat. Tinashe and Chance the Rapper This song was actually officially released back in 2015 but have started to pick up on PH radio airwaves only at the onset of 2018. Now you can't say that is wasted as what the singer's lyrics suggest of their friends in the song. because any chance a song gets back into the airwaves is never a wasted opportunity. 'All My Friends' meshes contemporary rap, R & B and pop beautifully. can't help but take me back to those moments when at a party and everyone's already drunk and you suddenly feel like you just want to roll in bed to spend alone time with your loved one.

Rounding up my top songs for 2018 are these runner-ups to the foregoing top 18 list. these aren't actually 19th to number xxx because any of these songs can easily substitute for each of the 18 songs listed above.

Especially when I am inclined to listen to music based on my moods. What can be top 5 for me this week would have a different top 5 lined up for next week. That's just how music-filled this year was for me, or any year for that matter. these are the songs that made up my days, the de facto background music to certain moments, the tunes that inspired, evoked emotions, and over-all kept me company even on sleepless nights:


SOMETHING'S GOTTA GIVE - Camila Cabello
BELONG TO YOU - Sabrina Claudio
ONE KISS - Dua Lipa
BEAUTIFUL - Bazzi feat. Camila Cabello
WITH YOU - Mariah Carey
'DI NA MULI - Janine Teñoso
HIGH - Dua Lipa
CALL OUT MY NAME - The Weeknd
DANCE TO THIS - Troye Sivan ft. Ariana Grande
2002 - Anne Marie
SANGRIA WINE - Pharell ft. Camila Cabello
FINESSE - Bruno Mars ft. Cardi B
LET ME GO - Alessia Cara, Hailee
THRU THESE TEARS - LANY
WAKE UP IN THE SKY - Bruno Mars, Kodak Black
THANK U, NEXT - Ariana Grande
TOO GOOD TO SAY GOODBYE - Bruno Mars
CALLING ALL MY LOVELIES - Bruno Mars
NO TEARS LEFT TO CRY - Ariana Grande
FEELS LIKE SUMMER - Childish Gambino
SOLO - Demi Lovato, Clean Bandit
SATIVA - Jhene Aiko
LOVE LIES - Normani, Khalid
IN MY BLOOD - Shawn Mendes
BREATHIN' - Ariana Grande
DELICATE - Taylor Swift
WRITTEN IN THE STARS - John Legend + WENDY
WITHOUT ME - Halsey
ALIEN - Sabrina Carpenter, Jonas Blue
WOMAN LIKE ME - Little Mix, Nikki Minaj
PERM - Bruno Mars
LET ME - Zayn Malik
KATHANG ISIP - Ben & Ben
BUWAN - Juan Karlos
IN MY PRISON - IV of Spades
MIDNIGHT SKY - Unique Salonga

And I say to all these artists, recording studios, composers and everyone who made these songs, and the producers who released them- keep playing, singing, writing, streaming & distributing them. Grateful to them all for bringing music to our 2018 and making the year special with those voices, beats and tunes.. now thank u, next..

Red Blood Moon

Oh, look at the moon, shining brightly
in all its crimson red glory.

most of the time it comes out rather shyly,
unmindful of its beauty

but once in a while it shows the blood
that glows from within.

As if to say, let's talk..
will be with you as you walk

Red, shimmering, like the ember
of a love that never left
a testament to forever..

My Personal Fave Songs of 2017

This has been a music-filled year for me. Or should I say, music made me survive 2017 thus far and on to the remaining few days of it. Here is a rundown of the musical themes, the hits and tunes that filled my waking moments, and possibly yours too throughout the year. A lot of new artists here not on my previous years' list. Though there were a few holdovers from last year and a couple of those from 2015 or so. Let's just say, the music I've grown to listen to these past several months and weeks have evolved to include new tastes and preferences. And thanks to my niece, too for her amazing taste in music that also have rubbed off on me somehow, introduced me to other genre. Music after all spans generations and can best be enjoyed for its artistry and sentiments whatever your age, whatever the situation, and wherever you are.

Here, in no particular order of preference. I actually listen to each song depending on my mood so what could be no.1 this week for me may be different from the no. 1 next week or the weeks prior. Here goes..



1) Versace on the Floor - Bruno Mars - this is perfect for when you're trying to get all cozy and intimate with that special one. Relatable for sexy time, I guess. And even if I don't own any Versace dress at the moment, I still enjoyed this song. First heard this latter part of 2016 but really caught mainstream this 2017. And the belated music video featuring Zendaya is smoking too. What can I say, I just love Bruno Mars :D


2) Here - Alessia Cara - this girl knows when to channel the very emotions and sentiments that I feel at random moments. This song may not be all that current but it's part of my 2017 playlist nonetheless. Reminds me of those past days when I would attend parties but don't really have my mind and heart on it and wishing I'm just at home, sipping some hot cocoa instead of going to some event full of people I'm not really that close with. Glad that I get to choose which party to attend to now, even if it's just a party of 4 or 5 close ones or a party of 1 consisting of just moi.


3) Havana - Camila Cabello & Young Thug - this young lady filled the airwaves this 2017 and turned me into a 'Camilizer' especially with this song. Not really that much meaning but it's very catchy and something in it just kept me swaying especially to the beat of the piano. The girl indeed has gone places even after separating from Fifth Harmony. Just hitting the right notes while the sun shines and singing ooh-na-na along the way. And who could forget her performance at the EMAs that was among the best, if not the best, of the night. Suddenly I have images of Cuba just listening to this song, oh to be at that part of the Caribbean seas ..


4) Too Good at Goodbyes - Sam Smith - Oh, this song just ripped through the heart. And went mainstream exactly at that time when goodbye is becoming a personal option. Not to delve too much on that though but this song is like a variation of a blog I wrote years ago - about being a veteran of goodbyes. And rightly so. Coz nothing is ever permanent in this life. And sometimes it's best to be a bit guarded maybe to protect oneself from the constant aches and pains of bidding someone or a lot of people adieu.



5) What Is Love - Frances - This may not be familiar to a lot of you but I find this haunting melody both sad yet oddly cathartic. Knowing that by acknowledging that there are certain nuances about love that is not all bed of roses. Plus I love this when it played in that Fifty Shades Darker. That movie sure knows how to put together a good soundtrack. What is love? All I know is it doesn't have to hurt. Really.

6) Shape of You - Ed Sheeran a feel good song of 2017. Those beats mixed with Sheerans voice. This one about carefree love. Just enjoying that meet and greet portion and where it leads later on. I'm in love with the song of you, Ed! More, please.

7) That's What I Like - Bruno Mars - this guy's been a mainstay of my top songs of the year from way back I can remember. And he really knows how to groove the way I just like it. Nothing can go wrong when you have 'champagne on ice' on the lyrics.


8) Stay - Zed ft. Alessia Cara - the jam that I want playing in the background specifically during date night. When you just need to stay in the moment with that special one, not letting go. From the intro to the extro - you just got to sway to the beat and take a minute to absorb this one particular music. Alessia is another great artist that should be creating more songs in the coming years.


9) Despacito - Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee - ah, that Spanish guitar riff at the intro. This transports me to Puerto Rico - long before the island got devastated by that strong cyclone this year. Something about Spanish songs and beats keep me on my toes and make this soul dance. And I like the original version better although I have no complaints about Bieber joining the fray. This may very well be the soundtrack of 2017 - meaning we need to take it slowly. To share that common goal of just enjoying the moment together and let the feeling take us to our favorite place or if you may, tus lugares favoritos.

10) 24k Magic - Bruno Mars - what can I say but Bruno is just so active this year and almost all songs in that album is just pure joy to listen to. That swag, that passion, that magic that you want 24 hours. Just because.

And here are the rest of the songs I've listened to, sang to, danced to, streamed on Spotify or watched on Youtube and played on the radio this year. I would have wanted to describe each song and how it influenced my year or kept me company but this post is already quite long so I'll just post their music videos here so you may catch snippets or listen in full and if you want and sing/dance/hum along with me. Until 2018! ..

11) Issues - Julia Michaels


12) He Like That - Fifth Harmony

13) How Would You Feel - Ed Sheeran

14) Beauty & The Beast - Ariana Grande & John Legend -

15) I Don't Wanna Live Forever - Taylor Swift & Zayn -


16) Back to You - Louis Tomlinson

17) Thinking 'Bout You - Dua Lipa -

18) Bad Things - Camila Cabello

19) Redbone - Childish Gambino


20) Something Just Like This - The Chainsmokers & Coldplay


21) Feels - Calvin Harris ft. Katy Perry, Pharell Williams



22) Fetish - Selena Gomez

23) The Scientist - Corrine Bailey Rae

24) OMG - Camila Cabello

25) Find Yourself - Before You Exit

26) Perfect - Ed Sheeran w/ Beyonce -

27) Look What You Made Me Do - Taylor Swift

28) New Rules - Dua Lipa



29) I Like Me Better - Lauv

30) Feel It Still - Portugal. The Man


31) What Lovers Do - Maroon 5 ft. SZA

32) Down - Fifth Harmony ft. Gucci Mane

32) 24k Magic - Bruno Mars

And that wraps up my 2017 personal favorite songs. There are just so many I've listened to all year and this is not even half of it but these songs are the shortlist of what spoke to my soul & soothe the ear as well as the feelings on some occasion. Cheers to a better 2018. Let's all keep the music playing..

My Top 16 Personal Favorite Songs of 2016

It was a kind of wild 2016, well just mildly wild, if there ever was such a thing. If this year was a painting, it would be one giant abstract. Yes, pretty much also explains the kind of songs that influenced me and my moods this year – a cornucopia of beats, emotions and lyrics that range from the melodramatic to psychedelic with a hint of angst or celebration or joy and all of the above.

With about 25 days to go before final touchdown of the year, I now present my pick of personal favorite 16 songs of 2016:


16) SIDE TO SIDE by Ariana Grande ft. Nikki Minaj - there’s something in the beat that’s catchy and bitchy at the same time. Something that describes my mood on most parts of each grueling month of 2016. Always will love Ariana’s vocals while Minaj lent the proper swag to an upbeat yet pretty chill song. ‘Ive been there all day…”

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15) CHEAP THRILLS by Zia – The title of the song is simply what it is. A cheap thrill. Entertaining stuff once more from a great artist, Zia. Song talks about no costs to having fun as long as you enjoy what you do, you don’t need dollar bills or money especially when you love the one you’re with.




14) STARVING– Hailee Steinfeld featuring Zedd – oh to have that kind of affection for someone. The all-encompassing feeling of having that one who exceeds every boundaries you set for your life. What made me like this song is partly on the line that says ‘I didn't know that I was starving 'til I tasted you
Don't need no butterflies when you give me the whole damn zoo’. That feeling of being overwhelmed by someone that has changed you forever.




13) HEATHENS – Twenty one Pilots – song caught my attention while watching the movie Suicide Squad. Very apt for the times especially with the many murders and killings in the Philippines in the past few months. These lines from the song got me hooked ‘You'll never know the psychopath sitting next to you,
You'll never know the murderer sitting next to you.’ And realizing that all you and your friends are heathens because you need to adapt to the situation, be a little weird when you have to coz there are a lot of psychos in our midst.




12) NOBODY'S BETTER – Z feat. Fetty Wap – there's something in the beat that gets to me. And the exchange of lines between the male and female singers. Pretty much explains how some guys think and how most girls also feel for them to remain secure in the relationship. Where the guy often says what you see is what you get in trying to explain his shenanigans, and the girl saying that she needs a little bit of honesty.




11) RISE by Katy Perry – this is a mantra to survive the year. Katie Perry is like a motivational speaker in a song. Always challenging you to rise and keep up to the challenge. To keep on keeping on. I especially had this as my imaginary background music when faced with a kind of tricky situation as I often find myself in this year. I also dedicate the song to my fave basketball team, Ginebra that paved the way for their being champions this year after 8 long forgettable seasons.




10) 7 YEARS – Lukas Graham – this has been a song that enjoyed quite a lot of radio airtime this year that I couldn’t help getting LSS’d. The singer’s voice was a mix of a melancholy with a touch of a boy band ruggedness. And I love how it touched on the passage of age and time, albeit a simplistic view from adolescence to adulthood to eventual senior moments. And the piano intro..




9) WORK FROM HOME by Fifth Harmony – this simply is a beat to enjoy. And when you thought the song is about working one’s ass off it actually sings about how you’ll work on that relationship with your man. The kind of effort one puts in to make it all fun instead of all work, work, work.



8) DON'T LET ME DOWN– Chainsmokers ft. Daya – this group may very well be the artist of the year for me. With their songs as ubiquitously playing on the radio or on hangout joints as frequent as a Duterte cuss word. Don’t Let me Down is the song that exactly means what it says on the title. About crashing and hitting a wall and holding on to that someone who you will beg and expect to not let you down. As in “I need ya, I need ya, I need you right now Yeah, I need you right now..” Yes, I do need this song to not let me down in times when there are less reasons to find goodness in the world.

https://youtu.be/Io0fBr1XBUA


7) WORTH IT by Fifth Harmony – these girls are rocking it this year. And the song is like an affirmation of what you deserve from life and from those you love. Song caught on latter part of 2015 and went on to start the year. That’s why I love this song that went ringing in my head for some weeks during the early part of 2016. Definitely listening to it is worth it.



6) PILLOW TALK by Zayn Malik – when you think of pillow talk and that eyelashes of Zayn, damn! But this is the kind of song that may be trying too hard to be sexy and sensual but came out just a wee bit cute. But I still love it. Especially the cover of Jojo during one of her live performances. There’s a part in the song that describes the bed in less than innocent terms and which somehow got me hooked in listening and singing to it.



5) TILL THE END – Jessie Ware – first time I heard this song playing was on the movie Me Before You. A surprisingly beautiful love story and one of the best movies I watched this 2016. It was playing as a background during a wedding scene and I got hooked on it. Turns out it’s by a favorite British singer- Jessie Ware whose sultry voice lent the perfect vibe to the melody. I especially adore the part when she sings ‘and And even when it's raining I don't see the clouds again.’ Captures the essence of being so in love with that person that all the crazy and negative things around don’t matter as long as you’re with him.



4) I HATE YOU, I LOVE YOU - Gnash ft. Olivia O'Brien – this is such a sweet sad love song about having the kind of love that is largely unreciprocated yet even if you hate the feeling you still love the person. Love singing the chorus especially when the feeling matches the frustration one gets when there is conflict in the relationship.



3) SECRET LOVE SONG – Little Mix ft. Jason Defulo - there's always something about songs that sings of keeping behind closed doors that gets me. An ideal song for belting out with all the pent-up emotions of a love that's real but hidden. Plus I love the range of vocals of this mix of female singers. Powerful voices that each sound has its own character. There's something about the over-all theme of the song that just speaks to the heart. When there are secrets hard to reveal.



2) ALL I ASK - Adele (collaborating with Bruno Mars) - afte having us at Hello last year,she brings us all we can ask for in a love song. The Adele melancholy vibe. I especially love the part about making memories that we can use. It's like speaking of a time spent with someone we may not have forever that a one special moment or night spent together can be a beacon to light us during darker days even when both have gone their separate way. Oh, the Adele effect and add to it the artistry of Bruno Mars who helped co-wrote this song with her. Also love Bruno Mars' live cover of this on BBC Live. The feels! This is all I ask for in a love song.



1) CLOSER - Chainsmokers ft. Halsey - I just couldn't stop singing and listening to this song this year. Like hey.. And could well relate to the part of '4 years no call, and now I'm looking pretty in a hotel bar..' after seeing your ex after no communication for well, 4 years. and then picking up from where you left of. A dance music that is part electro-pop and part club music that has an element of the brooding ambiance lent by the female vocalist. It has made it to my top choice of 2016. I just love how it brings me closer to that feeling of not so long ago just by listening to it. a blast.

GINEBRA 2016: From Kangkong to KAMPEON!

After 8 loooooong years, my favorite PBA team, Ginebra is on its way to reclaim the throne - the championship title that has eluded them for so long.

Despite the heartaches of past PBA conferences, the agonies, the cursing of the fates - (or at biased officiating, actually), I remain steadfast on my own fanaticism. This is the only time I allow myself to be a true-blue fan in all its essence. Since 1986 and now 20 years after, my adulation for the team has

never wavered. Through players & coaching transfers, I remain a fan, almost loyal to a fault.

Have gone through a lot of almost wrist-slashing moments when players would have sub-par performances in the past years or whenever referees' bad calls will result in losses. The cursing and banging of the hand against any hard, solid surface (like my niece' boom box for instance). Those losses were indeed painful.

After that 2008 championship, the struggle has become real. More so for us Ginebra fans who not only had to contend seeing past favorite players move on to other teams or retire, of coaches we've come to love that were transferred to other teams or got sacked & the many knockout games that resulted unfavorably for our team. But most especially had to endure the endless mocking and insults thrown our way by fans of other teams. Even by some of those not really into basketball but just for the heck of it felt it's their right to throw shade at the Ginebra fans because they cannot understand how a team that seemed to have seen the last of its better days and which almost always got itself kicked out of contention every PBA season should still command such attention and adoration. And how win or lose, and despite being branded 'Kangkong' by haters the fandom could not be shattered. The support is genuine, the faith in the team always shone through, even during the worst game days. The same faith that has also sparked an out of this world applause and cheer whenever a crucial win is secured.

Some would never get it. But most die-hard sports fans especially bonafide Ginebra fans will not find it strange that we've held on for so long. That's just how we hold on to life, mostly.In never-say-die fashion as what we've come to know Ginebra since Jaworski days, who after getting hit and stitched on during a game still returned from the hospital to lead his team to a come-from-behind win.

That's just how it is. If Ginebra is known as the never-say-die team, the fans are known for being never-say-die fans. We'll always be around. We're always around even those agonizing times when we've been mocked as our team became a perennial participant in the haters' imaginary 'Bora Cup' aka 'Boracay cup' - with reference to teams going on an early vacation usually off to the beaches in Boracay after being booted out.

And now - back to the present 2016. Our mighty team Ginebra is back in the Finals. They almost had a chance back in 2013 but got swept by Alaska so this new opportunity at being king and ending the 8-year title drought is what we've fervently hoped for. The time is just soooo ripe!

Since the conference started, I already noticed their game improving tremendously. There's a certain sense of mission, a fluidity to their game that was missing in past months, a renewed passion in how the players move that got the fans excited. Before the eliminations ended, I told my brother that Ginebra is playing like they're finals-bound. The level is just ahead of the other contending teams.

We saw the never-say-die spirit of the team back in harness, even right at the start of the conference. With their main big man Slaughter out due to injury, that did not discourage them and they played even better right from the first game, with renewed enthusiasm shown by the other half of the twin tower- Japeth.

And then came Brownlee - we saw his first game, suffering from cramps yet would ask to be fielded back in to fight off cramps and the jetlag. He was in and out during that game but we noticed that the heart is right there. That attitude that wore off the whole team. We saw it on the rebounding prowess of the rookie, Scottie, in the purpose-driven moves of Sol & Devance' leadership that inspires his team.

And how we saw that spirit with the way LA Tenorio also came out with his resurgence of sorts reminiscent of 2013 when he almost won the MVP award.

We saw the same never-say-die spirit rubbing off on Coach Tim who in just 3 conferences has really whipped up the team into an instant title-contender. The way he was reacting in the sidelines, turning from mentor to fan on every spectacular play of his team even if it is by his design or by fate's own design.

And then there's the holdovers from the last 2008 title- Mark & Jayjay Helterbrand. Both have shown signs of slowing down but their hearts and passion to win the game and win it for the fans are always there. Despite playing in probably the last phases of their careers, from the bandana brothers of yore to the 2016 Ginebra's own version of the 'Titos of Manila', they are still our 'Fast and Furious' the 'id' of the team, its heart and soul made more evident by their scintillating performance during the Finals' Game 4. They are as hungry as the fans to win this title now.

So this Oct 19, in Game 6, as the balloons or confetti fall down, and that old familiar Gi-ne-bra chant echoes down the halls of the coliseum, and champagne corks and beer cans start to pop, I know my own tears will fall along with the legions of fans. To wash down all those years of pent-up emotions and frustrations - as our team Ginebra again replicate the struggles of life and teaching us lessons along the way - to not give up despite the odds.

And being happy and aware that any one special moment of triumph and pure joy will always be greater than any long years of hardship and disappointments. We know we'll never take it any other way. this has got to be it.

And all because our own 'Kangkong' has now become Kampeon'. From chumps to CHAMPS!