Valentine's Day

Today is Valentine's Day which is celebrated on February 14 every year. It is an occasion to honor love, affection, and friendship. The celebration is a blend of ancient Roman rituals and Christian history. The day is named after Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who was executed on February 14. 

Many cultures have unique ways of celebrating Valentine's Day. In the Philippines, one of the most common tradition is, boys and men are giving red roses, chocolates, stuff toys, and love letters to honor their mothers, sisters, wives, and girlfriends. It is a day focus on love to one another.

Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes

Today February 11, Catholics around the world celebrate the Feast and Solemnity of Our Lady of Lourdes, Comforter of the Afflicted and Health of the Sick. With Mother Mary, we journey through Jesus Christ in trust, healing, and thanksgiving.

Send Help (2026 Film)

I just watched the movie "Send Help" yesterday (February 09). It is an American dark comedy horror starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien. The film was produced and directed by Sam Raimi who is best known for directing the Evil Dead trilogy and Spider-Man trilogy. This is the first movie I watched for the month of February 2026.

I enjoyed watching "Send Help" because I have learned some techniques on how to survive on a deserted island. It is about an employee (Rachel McAdams) and her boss (Dylan O'Brien) who become stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. While they attempted to survive in the island, tension rises between the two. The film is rated PG-13 (Parental Guidance 13) meaning "Parents Strongly Cautioned" in Philippine cinemas. This indicates some material are not suitable for children under the age of 13, but they can still watch it with parental permission. 

You may find some graphic gory scenes on the movie "Send Help" as well as strong/bloody violence, strong language, and disturbing situations. Overall, the movie is undeniably entertaining. So, if you still have a chance and a fan of Sam Raimi movies go watch it. 

Jollibee Super Meal

I went to the market today to buy my favorite fuji apple and some vegetables. After that, I decided to eat at Jollibee, the famous fastfood chain in the Philippines. I ordered a super meal that includes a chicken joy, spaghetti, jolly fries, rice, and pineapple juice. Jollibee never disappoints me. Their chicken joy which is my favorite is so delicious and crispy, that's why even the children are craving for it. I truly enjoyed my meal. Jollibee is really the best.

Avatar Fire and Ash

I had watched the movie Avatar Fire and Ash two days ago. The movie is very entertaining and visually stunning. You will not be frustrated watching the movie for 3 hours and 15 minutes as if you are in the world of Pandora. I had seen the previous two Avatar movies before - Avatar (2009) and Avatar: The Way of Water (2022). I considered this third installment is the best of the three franchise film so far. The third installment had already earned a whooping $1.3 billion at the box office as of this writing. This movie is a must see for everyone, children (with parental guidance), teenagers, and adults. 

St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church

Exploring and visiting churches around Cavite province and nearby cities is one of my goal this year. Recently, I visited St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church in the City of Bacoor, Cavite. The church is located at General Evangelista Street, Poblacion and one of the oldest churches in the area. It was founded in the early 1600s and I was impressed by it's beautiful architecture that showcases a blend of Spanish and Baroque style. The church is a perfect place for prayer and reflection and remains a vital destination for those exploring the city of Bacoor. You can also find the Plaza de Padre Mariano Gomes near the church. 

Main Altar of St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church

Main entrance of the church

Church facade in 2026

Statue of Christ the King in front of the church  

Plaza de Padre Mariano Gomes near the church

Memorial statue of Padre Mariano Gomes - is a priest and martyr born in Sta. Cruz, Manila on August 02, 1799. He was the Parish priest of Bacoor for 48 years, June 02, 1824 - February 17, 1872.

 

Plaza de Padre Mariano Gomes marker

The End of Christmas Season

Today, January 11, 2026 marks the end of the Christmas season in the Liturgical Calendar. It is also the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. As we end the season, let us reflect on the Birth of Jesus Christ.

Photo credit to the owner: Pixabay

Happy Three Kings (Epiphany Sunday)

Today January 04, 2026 is Epiphany Sunday. Epiphany Sunday celebrates the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God to the whole world. It is marked by the visitation of the three kings or Magi bringing gifts of gold, frankincese, and myrrh. These gifts represents Jesus Christ's kingship, divinity, and sacrifice respectively. In the Philippines especially in provinces, it celebrates Epiphany as three men dressed as King's riding in horses giving candies and cookies while roaming around the streets. The Catholic Church in the Philippines performed special masses commemorating the revelation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles via the Three Kings (Magi).