Peping's Personal Blog

Unveiling the Layers: A Journey of Authenticity   Today's office activity, prompting us to reflect on our best and worst traits, left me with a lingering sense of introspection. While my initial response focused on the practical aspects of my professional life – the joy of providing assistance juxtaposed with the occasional struggle in explaining technical concepts – the journey home offered a deeper exploration of my true self.   The initial answers, born from a hurried moment, felt superficial. As I delved into the quiet contemplation of my own being, a different narrative emerged. The "best" of me, I realized, is not a singular attribute, but rather a multifaceted tapestry woven with threads of vulnerability and genuine connection. I've spent a lifetime building walls, a protective mechanism against the sting of hurt. This has often led to a perception of me as a positive, even cheerful individual, but beneath the surface lies a yearning for genuine car

The Price of Nostalgia: A Reflection on Inflation and the Changing Times   Twenty years ago, the aroma of freshly grilled burgers and the comforting clatter of a cash register were the soundtrack to my evenings. As a part-time cashier at Wendy's in Glorietta 4 Cinema, Philippines, my world revolved around the familiar scent of fries and the satisfying crunch of a perfectly-made chicken sandwich. While my college classes occupied my days, Wendy's provided a haven for my evenings, a place where I could earn a little extra and indulge in a simple, affordable meal.   My go-to was the macaroni side salad. At just 23 pesos, less the employee discount, it was a filling and satisfying meal that sustained me through my five-hour shifts. The creamy blend of macaroni, vegetables, and thousand island dressing was a comforting symphony of flavors that I savored with every bite. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life, a time when a modest sum could provide

My answer: I've had a lot of curveballs thrown my way, just like everyone else. But one of the most challenging experiences I can share was a time when I felt completely out of control of my life. What I learned from it is that life is precious and a gift that should be celebrated. That's why I changed my mindset, as cliché as it sounds, to "Live life to the fullest." This is Sam from Imus, Cavite, and I thank you... Eeyyyy 🤙🤙🤙

The Tissue That Taught Me a Lesson   The fluorescent lights of Wendy's Glorietta 4 buzzed overhead, casting a sterile glow on the bustling lunchtime crowd. I was a cashier, a cog in the fast-paced machinery of the restaurant, but I was determined to make a positive impression. It was a typical morning shift, the air thick with the aroma of sizzling burgers and the rhythmic clinking of trays. Then, they walked in – a group of men in sharp suits, their faces etched with the weariness of international businessmen. One, with a friendly smile and a hint of Asian features, caught my eye.   I was eager to impress. I took their order with a practiced efficiency, suggesting a Frosty to accompany their Bacon Mushroom Melt burgers and iced teas. They seemed appreciative, their smiles widening as they exchanged pleasantries. It was a small victory, a testament to my commitment to providing exceptional service. They paid, collected their food, and settled at a nearby table, their co

My Elite Spa Escape: A Review   Okay, so I've been meaning to write this review for ages, because Elite Spa in Sta. Mesa, Manila deserves some serious praise. Let me tell you, it's like stepping into a little oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.   First things first, the staff is absolutely fantastic. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with smiles and genuine warmth. They're incredibly attentive and always ready to cater to your needs, whether it's grabbing you a fresh towel or requests   The spa itself is a haven of cleanliness and serenity. It's not huge, but that's part of its charm. It feels intimate and secluded, which is exactly what you want when you're looking to de-stress and unwind. The decor is calming and elegant, and the soft lighting and calming music create a truly relaxing atmosphere.   Now, let's talk about the massage. I opted for their signature body scrub

Okay, so back in my Jollibee days, we used to have this saying, "The customer is always right." And while it's a nice sentiment, in reality, it just wasn't always true. There were times when customers were being unreasonable, demanding things that were impossible, or even just plain rude. It was tough to swallow that saying when you're trying your best to do your job, and someone's making it a hundred times harder. That's why I think "The customer is always first" is a much better approach. It doesn't mean you have to agree with everything they say or bend over backwards for every whim. It just means you prioritize their needs and try to find solutions that work for everyone. It's about showing respect and understanding, even when things get tough. And that's a much more realistic and achievable goal for any service industry worker, Jollibee or otherwise.

To All the Boys I've Loved Before: Frances, the Medtech from UK - Jealousy started following me.    The sting of heartbreak still lingered, a dull ache in my chest. Marvin, my first love, had shattered my heart like a cheap glass ornament. But amidst the wreckage, a glimmer of hope emerged. It came in the form of a Yahoo messenger chat with a guy named Frances, a Half-Pinoy from London, UK. His username was Rhofritz@yahoo.com, and he was 23, a medtech working in a hospital.   He had a certain charm, a resemblance to my favorite actor, John Cusack, but with an Asian twist. Our conversations flowed easily, filled with playful banter and shared jokes. I was drawn to his wit and his confidence, especially when he described his "huge tool" and how impressed his dad was when he saw him playing with himself. I was still a minor, 15 or 16 at the time, so I guess he didn't have the courage to show it to me, or maybe he was just teasing.   I had a knack for making g

To all he boys I loved before... Marvin and Martin (The Twins) - My First LDR Heartbreak 💔   It was a time when the world seemed to shrink, and distances were bridged by the click of a button. I was a 16-year-old high school student, navigating the complexities of adolescence when Marvin entered my life through the digital realm of Yahoo Messenger. Marvin, a fellow 16-year-old Filipino residing in California, USA, appeared on my screen like a breath of fresh air. With his cute, chubby stature and tall frame, he bore a striking resemblance to the teen version of Chow Yun-Fat. What intrigued me even more was the fact that Marvin had an identical twin brother named Martin, adding a layer of mystery to his persona.   As our conversations unfolded, I found myself drawn to Marvin's sincerity and sweetness. It was a different kind of connection, one that transcended the boundaries of physical proximity. Marvin confessed his love for me, and in that moment, my heart fluttered

A Trip Down Memory Lane: The TECS Alumni Reunion   On the memorable day of June 29, 2024, a significant event unfolded at TECS that marked a special milestone - the first TECS alumni reunion. The day commenced with a vibrant parade from Tayabas church to the familiar grounds of TECS, evoking a sense of nostalgia and excitement among all the attendees. As I stood on the humble ground of my elementary school after more than 25 years, waves of memories and emotions flooded my mind.   This was where it all began - my journey filled with hopes, dreams, and the company of familiar faces that had once filled every corner of my eyes. What struck me the most was the blend of familiarity and change that enveloped the atmosphere. Despite the new buildings and classrooms that now stood proudly, the majestic Narra tree at the corner of the entrance gate remained a steadfast symbol of the school's history. The scent of freshly watered plants, the unchanging humble canteen, the famili

My Acne Journey: A Reflection on Beauty Standards   The first pimple appeared on my nose like an unwelcome guest, a tiny red dot on the otherwise smooth canvas of my youthful face. It was a harbinger of things to come, a cruel joke played by my hormones and genes. What began as a few scattered blemishes soon escalated into a full-blown acne journey, a relentless battle against a foe that seemed to know my vulnerabilities better than I did.   It was always the worst at the most inconvenient times. It always appears when you are in your teenage years, the most sensitive and vulnerable phase of life. My skin became a barometer of my emotional state, flaring up with every surge of insecurity, every pang of self-doubt. It was a vicious cycle: acne made me feel insecure, and insecurity made the acne worse.   I remember staring enviously at boys with flawless complexions, those who effortlessly glided through life, untouched by the torment of breakouts. They were the "chosen