#2020Goals

2019 feels like a different era already, right?

 

We are now officially in 2020 – a new year, a new decade, and new goals to achieve.

 

I asked some of our Boholano friends of their 2020 goals, some of them asked simply ignored the question. Here are those who did:

 

Maria Fe Evasco-To stay fit and healthy, to spend more quality time with my family and travel to more places here and abroad.

 

Anthony Damalerio-As the provincial DRRM officer, for 2020, I wish for good health not just for my family but all Boholanos, particularly the young minds that will later on comprise the new breed of government leaders. May they, as future leaders, prioritize climate change and consider this a major concern for all stakeholders. Furthermore, a focus on urgent programs dealing with the environment such as water conservation, tree-growing initiatives down to purok and household levels, renewable energy, more disaster risk reduction trainings for the vulnerable sector. Now is the best time to act together and do our part in achieving a disaster-resilient Bohol province.

 

Cristopher Boncales-My goal for this year is to work a push myself a bit harder to become more productive in my craft, and to make more travels  and memories being known by friends as #dAsianSweeper.

 

Some of our Boholano friends welcome 2020 with fresh memories and success stories and new opportunities. Contributed Photos

Benjie Oliva-As my wife Atty. Joan is the President Elect (PE) of the Rotary Club of Pasay Cyber City for Rotary International Year 2020-2021,one of our goals is to create sustainable community projects in Bohol. And second, a new business adventure in Manila and Bohol.

 

Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado-My Goals for 2020: Practice a healthier lifestyle like having a proper diet and exercise, learn and do more interesting new things, manage my time well and pursue a Master's degree.

 

Narcisa Navarro- We are focused on our children's future careers. Guiding them of the most appropriate courses they choose to take. Everything for them to have a productive life when it is their time. That's for the new decade goal.

 

Rep. Kristine Alexie Tutor-Every new year deserves a better version of oneself. More resilient as a public servant; more interactive with the people’s needs. I’d rather be a silent worker, walking my talk than a humming bee. Above all, this decade is for the Lord’s guidance. I pray for strength to whatever call HE sets for me whether to continue serving the people as a politician or a civilian. I trust HIM as the driver of my life. Whatever i shall be in this decade, the important thing is that I love what I shall become. To embrace every calling and to give out the best version of myself that I may be able to influence positivity in the lives of others.

 

Karla Tirol Magno- To continue growing with self love and in business.

 

EJ Relampagos-My goal this year is to start my long time dream which will be a surprise. For this decade, an international fashion show for Boholano designers for sure!

 

Vanessa Cubrado- My new year's resolution for the new decade would be, to become more spiritual and meditative especially now, nga murag controlled kaau atoang life sa social media, adto nalang ta pirmi mag base. We need to listen to ourselves more than what the internet is telling us.

 

Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin- Seriously, to choreograph a dance routine interpreting the love song "More Than Just the Two of Us" with Honey Jerome for my 50th birthday... Long-term goals? To do something meaningful for my family and to carry out my duties in the City Government, CCCA, CLEC, AUDIO-Bohol, TCCSC FPTA, Tagbilaran Schools FPTA, GSP-Bohol Council, and BNHS alumni association by God's grace.

 

Mikey Gatal-The goal that I am wishing to accomplish is to travel to different countries as many as I can before I turn 50 this year. I felt like 2019 was so stressful and no time to relax. It would be nice to celebrate Christmas and New Year in Bohol. It was year 1999 when I left my family because I went abroad and never got a chance to spend Christmas with them again. Lastly, always reach out to God for guidance and family for support. To stay healthy and full of love.

 

Butch Bernas-To make my work more efficient and productive. Good health, good body physique, and more travels local and abroad.

 

Scarlet Guelen-Boiser-I hope my dessert business would prosper. More travels, perhaps.  And I hope to return to showbiz with the right material. Above all, good health and happiness for my family.

 

Leah Tirol-Magno- I look forward to a healthier and a more progressive year for everyone, embracing God's love and submitting to His plans for our lives. I also look forward to upgrading my academic and baking endeavors.

 

Anna Maris Igpit-Taylor- My goals for the New Year would be to add another member into our family (God willing!), upgrade my skills to have a better career, and learn ,experience and grow into a better parent and partner to my husband. For the new decade, I just wish to raise my kid/s well, fill them with great memories through travels and help them grow into better individuals.

 

Police Col. Jonathan Cabal- My goals for this year and for the next 9 years would be improving myself to hurdle challenges in my work, health ,and the community. For this year, as PD of Bohol, I share the same goal as the Governor in terms of Tourism enhancement and peace and order, thus, I will operationalize my Green Cops "Eco Warriors" who will work hand in hand with capitol in enforcing environmental laws vis- a-vis sustainable tourism. We can't afford to lose the beauty of Bohol, hence, it's a must that the people take good care of our natural resources. Lastly, I would love to see the President succeed in his war against drugs because, ultimately, it is for the next generation's benefit.

 

This year 2020, our Boholano friends have new goals or a chance to finish the old ones and revel in new joys. Contributed Photos

Vera Villocido-Gisete -Education reforms, decrease drop out rates, increase senior high school as well as higher education enrollment, more scholarships, more linkages and partnerships.

 

Marianito Luspo-Reassess. Resolve. Recommit.

 

Rep. Edgar Chatto- Year 2020 will be a year of hope, peace and prosperity for all. Amidst challenges that we may encounter in the coming year, the Family shall stand firm at the center. Desirable values and positive attitude prepare us to face what lies ahead as we continue to embrace more of God's blessings. We pray that 2020 will be a blissful year for our families and be another banner year of growth and development for the province of Bohol and the country. Pushing towards greater heights Bohol's socio-economic development by lowering even more the province's poverty incidence, increase employment levels through job creation and investments. 2020 national budget includes funds for Bohol's support infrastructure devt in roads leading to tourism sites, ports and seaports development, farm to market roads and roads leading to investment areas.  Gallares Medical Center facility in Cortes for specialized health services, New Hall of Justice , 3rd Tagbilaran-Dauis/Panglao Island Connector bridge and other vital projects are among the priority.

 

Conchita Toribio-Delos Reyes- Looking back at 2019 and the years before it,  Is clear that our success doesn't depend solely on our hands, It is by the grace of our Father Almighty and the Love from the People that continuously supports and trust us that gives us that extra mile.  Being a CEO is not a garden walk, It was never easy, I am left with a big task, that is to be more stronger, more focus on our vision and to be more optimistic on all important things that matter for every Beaucheans out there.  And most of all to continuously give back and be His genuine channel of blessings to other.  I pray to God that He will continuously give me the wisdom to do all this for the next more years.

 

Atty. Ted Lagang-Maintain simple lifestyle while spending quality time with family and real friends.

 

Melinda Mendez-Basalo-My goals for Year 2020: To become fit, healthier by doing more physical activities and exercises gradually to sweat out excess "bilbils" and eat lesser. Maybe I could visit the gym if I have extra time. To have more quality time with family, do some improvements in my house like painting it to make the surroundings brighter and Mlmerrier. As to my work, I will continue being a good  Nanay to my colleagues and stay away from toxic people around. I will just pray for them to become good and promoting a more friendly and gender-sensitive environment at Bohol-Panglao International Airport by Service with a Smile and with a Heart, by this we can create a stress-free working environment.

 

Aileen Sendrijas-Pasagad- In 2020 and the following years, I will focus my energy on becoming a better designer and a businesswoman. I aim to have my name cemented as a leading designer in Bohol and hopefully open a 3rd branch somewhere in the region. And I wish to achieve such wishes by the grace of our Lord and the support of my family.

 

Mayette Gasatan- We will practice the true values of Christianity towards our family members, friends, peers, colleagues and business partners. Our province is developing economically and I wish that investors should adopt the triple bottom line (TBL) framework or theory in doing business in the province. These investors or companies should commit to focus on social and environmental concerns just as they do on profits.  They will manage a company in a way that not only earns financial profits but which also improves people's lives and the planet.

 

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

 

Their #2018Goals

A new year, a new you.

As we start another year, it’s always good to strive for certain goals for better, healthier and more fulfilled lives—physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

Here are some notable (my favorite!) Boholanos who shared their #2018goals:

Idy Caseñas Cagas — PERSONAL: Learn something new. Move more! Create a workout routine, find time to exercise. Eat healthy and increase water intake. Be more grateful. RELATIONSHIP: Visit my parents more often and call them more often. Be in better touch with my closest friends. Have regular date nights with the fiance. WORK: Learn the difference between important and urgent. Keep on learning. Drive my own development. Celebrate successess, big or small, reward myself and stay motivated. Stress less. Understand others better.

Leah Tirol-Magno — To continue innovating, be a blessing to someone each day and also to be a doctor.

Some Boholanos think that it’s important 

to start 2018 the right way—by having a New Year’s goals!

Doris Dinorog-Obena — To visit one or two countries like Brunei and Bali  (Indonesia) and visit Coron (Palawan) then study and explore an online business. I would also want to develop more grounded participatory planning processes inclined towards gender equality...anything that will make use of my previous governance experience.

Benjie Oliva — My 2018 goals are: 1) To lose weight through regular exercise and proper diet; 2) a short-term  scholarship  abroad; and 3) with God’s blessings  another baby in the family.

Jeryl Lacang-Fuentes — This year I intend to be bolder and better. Also, I intend to unapologetically spend more time putting myself first, say NO to others and spend time on myself and my girls.

Imaculada Cleofe Leopardas — My 2018 goals seem like my most genuine decisions. I want to be really mindful, be more passionate wherever I go and I want to change for the better. I will no longer dwell on negativities and insecurities but rather, I will practice positive thinking and be more focused. I want to be closer to God, I want to still make time to some people who matters to me. I will have a healthy lifestyle and take care of myself. Lastly, I want to be a woman who's selfless and she knows her purpose and lives with it. And I will live a meaningful life.

Tessie Labunog-Sumampong —I want to  travel more around the world with my family, to be physically fit because I am not getting any younger and to expand my catering business and to have a home my own na jud

Charina Aumentado-Jones:  To lose weight.  Ha!Ha!Ha!

AR De La Serna— Achieve more. Continue working hard. Travel to places I've never been before.

Mikey Gatal — I need a break before I get crazy in America! My plan is to apply for a dual citizenship to be able to stay longer in the Philippines especially in Bohol for a well deserve vacation and not rushing to go back and work. I am considering a job over there at The Panglao International Airport if there is an opportunity and be closer to my family again, I will also consider a work in Congress for that’s where I started and hopefully I will have a happier and peaceful mind this 2018!

Lourdes Brunidor Cempron — Maintain a healthy lifestyle, success for my loved ones and most of all to be more prayerful.

Gisela Mae Apalisok-Leggington—My goals in 2018: track my calories intake and diet, exercise regularly, be a minimalist at home and whichever, spend on things necessary and finish food n the fridge or pantry before buying, not a hoarder, to travel anywhere, time management.  Another goal: go to the gym regularly, go to bed early to get a real good eight hours of sleep

Ingemar Macarine— To conquer the English Channel!

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Today is the best time to relate to VRS readers some inspiring stories sent to me by travel specialist Jocelyn Pilayre and beauty queen Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin who must have gotten them from their other friends or other sources.

Anyway, “A Shoe Seller Walks in the Shoes of Kindness” is worth retelling, from which we can all learn a lesson or two.

I am sharing you this to make you smile and inspire you this 2018.

A Shoe Seller Walks in the Shoes of Kindness

Today, I felt terrible. My head was full of problems and confusion.  I decided to take a walk even though I didn't know where I would go. The most extraordinary thing happened when I was out on this walk.

I saw an old man sitting on a chair. He was a seller of second-hand shoes. I thought he looked at least 70 years old. He seemed so tired and nobody was buying his shoes. I wanted to give him something but I had not brought anything with me.

Then, a little girl came toward him. I heard the child say, "Grandfather, may I polish your shoes?" That old man took pity on her, smiled and he gave her a  shoe to polish.

The girl said, "I polish the shoe because I need money to buy my brother a new school uniform."

SubmitI heard this and tears came to my eyes. The old man answered, "Oh, little girl. Just stop doing this. Come with me and I will buy you a uniform." Then they walked to a market (I followed behind) and he bought her a uniform.

The girl was so happy.  She said, "Thank you so much for doing this. May God bless you." Then she left, leaving the old man smiling.

He walked away from the market, but I stopped him. I whispered in his ear, "You are a hero! Thank you for your kindness!"  As I walked away, I glanced back and I could see him still smiling.

I was blown away by the kindness I had just seen.  Someone who had so little themselves, was able to show such incredible generosity! Amazing! My own sadness had completely disappeared, chased way by the light of this kind act.

I began realizing that I have a lot to be thankful for. I hope, some day, I can show my appreciation of what I have by following the example of the old man who only had a little, but shared it so beautifully with someone who had nothing.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

Their New Year’s resolutions

Wake-upper:

Scene:  The formal installation rites of Bishop Alberto Uy as the new bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran on Friday at the St. Joseph Cathedral was officiated by His Excellency Archbishop Bernadito Auza, permanent observer of the Holy See to the United Nations.

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They think that it’s important to start 2017 the right way—by having a New Year’s resolution!

Bishop Alberto Uy of the Diocese 

of Tagbilaran Courtesy: Elvie Bongosia

Leah Tirol-Magno

I am not so much of a fan for New Year’s resolution. I would go for a goal instead. The goal this year and for the years to come is to focus more on Jesus and the personal relationship with Him and everything will fall into the right places and let God take charge of my life.

Anthony Aniscal

My new year's resolution is to make sure that time spent for family will be of priority. Being a public servant, it demands time for the constituents and at times the precious time for family are set aside.

Benjie Oliva

My New Year's resolutions: Make time for meditation and more prayer. More  workout for a healthier body. Work harder for the family and for the country.

Imaculada Cleofe Leopardas

My New Year's resolution is to make time to what really matters to me. I want to spend my whole life doing the things that defines me and be with somebody who really cares for me. I would focus on improving myself so that I can totally love, serve and protect my priorities now. I want to become the best for a good cause and for the purity of intention on helping in making this world a better place. I would love to spend my life in spreading the seeds of love.

Ferome Almine

I personally wish that I’ll have more hosting and coordinating events this 2017 since I want to have a blessed and fruitful new year. I wish also for a strong economy, clean government and a total change of the facade of our country.

Adelyn Joy Esclamado

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a chef. I was always curious how delicious foods were prepared and asked my mother about it. When she would start telling me the answers to my questions, I tend to listen eagerly. But then, my curiosity perhaps gone too far, I accidentally put our kitchen on fire while trying to cook the new dish I learned. My mother burnt small portion of her legs trying to save me. It happened too fast that I can’t even remember what exactly happened. On that day, my dream to be a chef turned into ashes. And now, I think it’s the right time to start all over again, I will try my best to face my fears and will open my heart and mind for new experiences. In short, my new year's resolution is to make cooking a hobby.

Mikee Andrei

My New Year's resolution would be for better health---to always prioritize health despite tremendous work. Also, this year, I hope I’ll have more time with my family.... and save up!

Whether it’s by pursuing their dreams or cultivating 

their passions, they have plans to rev up their lives this 2017. 

Contributed Photos

Marianne Domivee Chatto

The past year has been a roller coaster ride for me. For this brand new 2017, I envision myself to be a dedicated public servant, an optimistic leader, and a passionate and caring mother. The best thing that happened in my 2016, my baby Dom.

EJ Relampagos

My New Year's resolution is to stop making resolutions to myself. He! He! He! I would rather master more on self discipline, self responsibility and self respect. These are what we need to have in order to live a good life in today's world dominated by diversions! Love to all.

Vilma Yorong

May this year bring more opportunities not only for myself but also to the people I serve.  I hope my dreams will turn into reality and my efforts and hardwork will translate into great achievements. I am praying that the Lord will give me enough strength and faith to face the challenges of 2017.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohanINQ at Twitter /Facebook.

Start your days right in 2014

With the New Year comes the opportunity for a fresh start. The best way to greet 2014 is to start its first day on a healthy and a fabulously positive note. Thus, I am sharing with you some “reminders” to welcome your most awesome year yet.

Top 10 New Year’s resolutions for 2014 from statisticbrain.com:

1. Lose Weight

2. Getting Organized

3. Spend Less, Save More

4. Enjoy Life to the Fullest

5. Staying Fit and Healthy

6. Learn Something Exciting

7. Quit Smoking

8. Help Others in Their Dreams

9. Fall in Love

10. Spend More Time with Family

Top five (well, six) tips for staying healthy in 2014 from Cambridge News:

1. Eat breakfast – Ensure you have a substantial breakfast which includes some protein and fat, and aim to eat it within an hour of getting up. This will help your body to maintain balanced blood sugar levels and that’s key in order to reduce your cravings. And do yourself a big favour and skip the fruit juice - it plays havoc with your blood sugar levels.

2. Get active – Find an activity that you enjoy and actually look forward to, such as cycling, dancing, running or yoga – and do it twice a week. Current research suggests sitting for long periods can increase the risk of heart disease, weight gain and diabetes, so if you’re office based ensure you get up several times a day and take a walk.

3. Protein – Include some with all meals and snacks: think eggs, chicken, fish, pulses, nuts and seeds, approximately the size of your palm. This will slow down the insulin response and help keep your weight stable.

4. Get into green tea - Replace some of your tea and coffee with green tea. It is rich in polyphenols, a powerful antioxidant that will not only help to keep you healthy this winter but may also slow down the ageing process as may encourage faster metabolism. Start with two cups a day and experiment by adding fresh mint and a slice of lemon.

5. Cut back on carbohydrates such as potatoes, rice, pasta, bread, biscuits - and ensure you load your plate up with healthy seasonal vegetables instead. Make them interesting by stir-frying, sautéing, baking in the oven, adding garlic and chilli - whatever works for you.

6. One final tip... Include mushrooms in your diet. They contain powerful compounds called beta glucans which have long been studied for their immune enhancing properties.

And some inspiring words from Elvie Bongosia of PIA-Bohol on New Year's resolutions - The Pope Francis list:

1. Don't gossip.
2. Finish your meals.
3. Make time for others.
4. Choose the "more humble" purchase.
5. Meet the poor "in the flesh."
6. Stop judging others.
7. Befriend those who disagree.
8. Make commitments, such as marriage.
9. Make it a habit to "ask the Lord."
10.Be happy. This joy should translate to love of neighbor.

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VRS asked you to share your greatest moment of 2013. These are your stories...

Volunteerism-“It's being able to rediscover myself by realizing my capacity to help. The 7.2 earthquake and typhoon Haiyan were my greatest moments because it helped me realize not only that I can actually help but it let me witness the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen – the Filipinos and other countries helping each other to give aid to the victims. As they say, it is in times of disaster that brings out the best in the community.” -Anna Maris Igpit

Daughter’s Birthday-“When Cielo celebrated her 16th birthday with our family, her Grandma Wincie and Mommy Lou in attendance; when Jerome and I put on her medal for her victory in the Regional Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge in Cebu City, and when I escorted Cielo to the University of the Philippines-Diliman upon her college entrance.”- Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin

Heaven’s Bliss- “When I met Padre Pio in Boracay that made me back sincerely and religiously with God in the Catholic Church. I swear! Isn't that amazing?”- Joy Suarez

Partner-“My greatest moment of 2013 is that I met and married the woman that I'll love for the rest of my life, Atty. Joan Jagonos.” – Benjie Oliva

For Art’s Sake- “When I was chosen by the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) fellowship grantee for visual arts here in New York for six months to observe contemporary arts.”- Sam Penaso

Beauty with a Purpose-“As usual, the success of Anyag sa Tubigon 2013 with Daniel Padilla as special guest and when I was able to defend my master’s thesis en route to my Master in Business Management Degree at the Graduate School of Business and Administration of the University of San Jose-Recoletos.”-Raymund Delgado

A Helping Hand- “Co-convening the Oplan Bangon Bohol and doing relief and rebuilding missions in Bohol but still getting a year-end Performance Award from our Law Firm.” – Atty. Julius Gregory Delgado

Youth Service- “Winning the "Outstanding Barangay Official of the Year 2013 (Toboy Awards)" SK Category among 3,003 SK chairmen of the whole Region 7 and elected as Barangay Kawagad in our beloved Barangay Booy.” - Clement Ingking

Happy Feet- “The best moment for me this 2013 is when I went to the Grand Canyon...I felt God's presence there!!!”- EJ Relampagos

2013 was a good year for VRS as he was interviewed and featured on CNN.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.