Ad Maoirem De Gloriam

  I’ll be honest musicals were never my thing. I never thought I’d be the type to sit through one, let alone be moved by it. But life has a way of surprising you, especially when someone believes in pushing you out of your comfort zone. So, when Sir Don, our department head, invited me to watch Next to Normal, I decided to take a chance. And wow, am I glad I did.   I walked in blind—no research, no expectations—just an open heart and my favorite mantra: “surprise me.” Sir Don hinted that the play explored a mother’s battle with bipolar disorder and its impact on her family. But nothing could’ve prepared me for the emotional journey that unfolded on that stage.   From the very first note, I was hooked. Nikki Valdez, who played Diana Goodman, gave a performance so raw and real that it left me speechless. Her portrayal of a mother wrestling with grief, loss, and mental illness was breathtaking. And then there was Benidix Ramos (yes, from PBB!) as the enigmatic son—...

Every time I’m in Cebu; I make it a point to visit Colonnade Supermarket in downtown Colon. This place isn’t just a store to me—it’s where my journey into adulthood began. Right after high school, this iconic supermarket gave me my first job. I was a sales associate in charge of the noodles section, and though it might sound simple, it was my first taste of responsibility.   The store back then felt massive, almost like an S&R, with towering shelves I’d climb to stack noodles and pasta, ensuring every display was full and neat. I was hired just three days before Christmas, and the rush of customers was overwhelming. I was new, unsure, and almost quit because it felt like too much. But I stayed. I pushed through the fear, the unfamiliarity, and the challenges.   Colonnade taught me that life outside the classroom is where the real lessons begin. It’s not about memorizing formulas or historical dates—it’s about resilience, determination, and finding your why. This ...

When I was given employee number 206686, it wasn’t just a digit—it was a dream come true. I had just been hired at Metro Gaisano, now known as Metro Department Store, Cebu’s most prestigious retail haven. Even as a high school student, I had always admired this iconic store, and now, I was part of its legacy.   My journey began as a bagger at the bustling Metro Supermarket. Every Cebuano knows how chaotic it can get, but I thrived in the energy. I mastered the art of packing groceries, even learning the baggers’ secret of cutting binding straws without scissors. It was humble work, but it taught me discipline and resilience.   After my first contract, I was assigned to the Furniture and Fixture Department on the 6th floor. This was where I discovered my passion for marketing and sales. Metro instilled in me a powerful mantra: “The customer isn’t always right, but they have the right to be treated right.” This became my guiding principle. Whether I was selling a luxur...