Global PhFilipina Travel and Meetup Group

07/14/2024

Shape Your Destiny: The Power of Character

Your character is the compass that directs your life. It shapes your decisions, influences your actions, and ultimately determines your destiny. Guard your reputation with unwavering dedication, as it reflects your true self. By nurturing integrity, honesty, and kindness, you build a legacy that transcends time. Remember, a strong character is the foundation of success and fulfillment. Embrace this truth, and watch as your life blossoms into a testament of your unwavering principles and indomitable spirit.

-Marilou T. Carlos , 2024

05/22/2024

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05/22/2024

05/21/2024

Day #2: MTC's 82-Day Philippines 2024 Tour

05/21/2024

Day #1: MTC's 82-Day Philippines Tour 2024

04/03/2024

Siargao’s 10-Day Forecast while spending my exploration of the island’s beauty, culture and magnificence ❤️

03/28/2024

😇 Maundy Thursday : Embracing the Splendor of Creation in Negros Occidental

Day 40: Journal of my 82-day 2024 Philippines 🇵🇭 tour. Second Destination 🏝️ Island of Visayas

✅ Our journey through the heart of Negros Occidental was an immersion into the bountiful embrace of nature, where every sight and sound whispered of the divine artistry of creation. As we ventured into the mountains, the wonders we encountered painted a picture of serenity and abundance:

⭐️ Majestic Kanlaon**: The awe-inspiring view of Mount Kanlaon greeted us with its majestic presence, a testament to nature's grandeur.

⭐️ Napatagan Campsite**: Overlooking the serene Ma-ao mountain, we savored the rich flavors of native Negros coffee and indulged in “BongBong’s” special biscocho, finding solace in the shade of a traditional "Kubo" amid the summer heat.

⭐️ Sacadas and Hacienderos**: Our exploration led us through vast "campo" of sugarcane plantations, revealing the enduring legacy of "sacadas" and the opulence of "hacienderos", a reflection of the region's rich history and culture.

⭐️ A Holy Road Trip**: On Maundy Thursday, our journey across La Carlota and La Castillana's sugarcane fields was a meditation on the abundance of God's creation, from the verdant mountains to the fruit-laden trees and playful mountain monkeys.

🥰 As we traversed this verdant paradise, our hearts were filled with gratitude for the Creator's generous provisions. 🙏This holy journey through Negros Occidental was a reminder of the boundless love and grace bestowed upon all of creation, calling us to cherish and protect these gifts for generations to come.

The rest of the day was with solemnity and holiness at home 🏡 with our hosts.

The joy of exploring new horizons in our native land the Philippines 🇵🇭 is matched only by the wisdom gained from each journey, each enriching our soul. ❤️

03/07/2024

☀️ Brighter Morning for Street Food Breakfast and traditional Sushi Lunch at Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵

✅ On Day 18 of my grand 82-day 2024 Tour of the Philippines, continues on my side trip into the vibrant heart of Kyoto, Japan, igniting a 5-day whirlwind of exploration and wonder with my 3 USA 🇺🇸 Besties. The sheer anticipation of delving into the culinary mastery of Japanese chefs and home cooks was exhilarating. My taste buds were awakened to the unparalleled flavors of Wagyu and Kobe beef, an indulgence I couldn't have dreamed of missing.

Kyoto, a city where tradition intertwines with the pulse of modern life, offered us an unforgettable experience at the Fushimi Inari Taisha. This head shrine, standing since 711AD, has been a beacon for those seeking blessings for prosperity, safety, and the fulfillment of their deepest wishes for over 1300 years. The highlight? Witnessing one of my best friends embrace the elegance of a traditional kimono, blending seamlessly with the sacred surroundings as we explored this historic site.

Our adventure led us to the bustling Teramachi Dori Street, where we indulged in an array of sushi that tantalized our senses. Each bite was a testament to the rich offerings of Japanese cuisine, featuring the freshest seafood and most exquisite fish.

The day's journey concluded with a leisurely shopping excursion, guided by a local expert who effortlessly navigated us through Kyoto's cultural treasures.

This chapter of my adventure was a poignant reminder to cherish every moment, to immerse fully in the beauty of different cultures, and to live passionately with an open heart. Here's to the journey of discovery, to the joy of new tastes, and to the deep connections forged along the way. ❤️

03/03/2024

Today marks a special moment in my Philippine journey 🇵🇭

Day 14 of my 82-day adventure across the Philippines, focusing on Luzon.

📍Today, I had the privilege of returning to HAGONOY, my beloved hometown in the province of BULACAN. It's a heartfelt return to where my roots lie deep in the Philippine soil. The day began with a delightful river cruise breakfast, featuring fresh local seafood and vegetables. Alongside childhood friends and classmates, some of whom I haven't seen in over 50 years, we navigated through the quaint island barrios of Pugad and Tibaguin in Hagonoy. A milestone moment was my first visit to the iconic “PAROLA ng Hagonoy” lighthouse at 66 years old. It was a profoundly nostalgic and emotionally charged experience that touched the core of my being. ❤️

This town encapsulates the essence of my heritage and family legacy.

My heart is full of love for my homeland, the Philippines 🇵🇭

03/03/2024

🙏Celebrating the Blessed Third Sunday of Lent in the beautiful Philippines 🇵🇭

Day 15 of my 82-day 2024 journey across the Philippines, with a special 5-day excursion to Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵 on the horizon.

This morning, I was blessed to attend Mass at Saint Gabriel Parish, GBC Uptown Mall, followed by a delightful stroll around Bonifacio High Street and a quick lunch, all before heading to NAIA Airport for our Japanese adventure.

We're excited to immerse ourselves in the stunning natural landscapes and delicious culinary traditions that epitomize Japan's rich culture, alongside my BESTIES from the USA 🇺🇸.

Here's to living life to the fullest ❤️

02/23/2024

Greetings from the City of all Occassions, Tagaytay City Philippines 🇵🇭

Day 7: 82-day 2024 Philippines 🇵🇭 Tour

Creating memories with high-school friends, coffee over-looking the Taal Lake, Mahogany market for beef lovers ,Sonia’s Secret Garden and enjoying the fresh cool breeze throughout the day🥰

✅ Experiencing the Philippines is to embrace an endless adventure of discovery and wonder.

I love ❤️ the Philippines 🇵🇭

02/18/2024

Good morning Philippines 🇵🇭

First Sunday of Lent in the Philippines 🙏

DAY 2:

Sunday celebration at Bonifacio Global City and exploring McKinley Hills Taguig, Philippines 🇵🇭

I love ❤️ the Philippines 🇵🇭

02/18/2024

Good morning Philippines 🇵🇭

Arrival at the Manila Airport for 82-Day 2024 Philippines Tour

⭐️ DAY 1:

Lunch at Greenbelt Makati and staying at Venice McKinley Hills Taguig, Philippines 🇵🇭

I love ❤️ the Philippines 🇵🇭

02/13/2024

Trust: Earned, Not Demanded.

Life at 50 and beyond…

Trust is the cornerstone of all meaningful relationships, be it personal or professional. Unlike authority, which can be imposed, trust must be earned. This subtle yet profound distinction is vital in leadership and teamwork. Trust is not an entitlement; it is a delicate asset built over time.

👍🏻 Consistency in Actions:** Trust grows when actions and words align consistently over time. Reliability in fulfilling promises and commitments is a fundamental building block of trust.

👍🏻Transparent Communication:** Open, honest communication fosters trust. Sharing information, acknowledging mistakes, and providing clear rationale for decisions help in building credibility.

👍🏻 Empathetic Leadership:** Understanding and valuing team members' perspectives and needs demonstrate respect and consideration, essential for nurturing trust.

👍🏻 Integrity and Ethics:** Upholding strong moral principles and ethical standards is non-negotiable. Trust thrives in an environment where integrity is the norm.

👍🏻 Accountability and Responsibility:** Owning up to one's actions and decisions, especially during challenging times, reinforces trust. It shows commitment to fairness and justice.

Trust is not a badge to be demanded but a treasure to be cultivated with patience and sincerity. It's an ongoing journey, not a destination. In the tapestry of human interactions, trust is the thread that binds individuals into a cohesive, functional, and thriving unit. Leaders and team members alike must remember: trust earned is trust sustained.

-Marilou Tomacruz Carlos, MTC4F 2024

02/06/2024

Sharing is Multiplying!

Life at 50 and beyond…

The Power of Sharing: Multiplying Joy Across Generations.

In a world increasingly focused on individual success, the timeless wisdom of John Maxwell's teaching, "Sharing is Multiplying," serves as a beacon of hope and unity. This message is not just a lesson; it's a journey into the heart of what truly enriches our lives across all generations.

❤️ Embracing Empathy:** When we share, we step into the shoes of others, feeling their joy and their pain. This empathy builds bridges between hearts, reminding us that we are never truly alone in our experiences.

❤️ The Ripple Effect of Kindness:** A simple act of sharing can set off a cascade of goodwill. Like ripples in a pond, our shared kindness reaches far beyond the immediate moment, touching lives in ways we may never fully know.

❤️ Strength in Vulnerability:** Sharing our own stories, especially our struggles, requires courage. But in this vulnerability lies our greatest strength, as it invites others to open their hearts and share in return.

❤️ Legacy of Generosity:** The things we share become part of our legacy. Whether it’s knowledge, time, or love, these are the gifts that endure, passed down through generations, weaving a tapestry of compassion and connection.

❤️ Joy Multiplied:** In sharing, our joy is not divided; it is multiplied. It transforms from a solitary spark into a shared flame, illuminating our collective human experience with warmth and light.

John Maxwell’s profound insight, "Sharing is Multiplying," is more than a principle; it's a pathway to a more connected and compassionate world. By embracing the power of sharing, we not only enrich our own lives but also cast a light of hope and love that spans generations. Let us all commit to this journey of sharing, multiplying joy and understanding across the tapestry of humanity.

- Marilou Tomacruz Carlos, MTC4F, LLC- 2024