I just came from BlueREP pictorials. Yes. After two years of theatre hiatus, I finally auditioned for a BlueREP production. I’ve thought about it a lot before trying out, and even went out of my way to ask my parents for permission. I did that because if ever I do get in, I will have to devote school nights of June for rehearsals. It can be pretty tough for someone who lives in Makati like I do. Fortunately after my amazing persuading skills, they both finally agreed to it. It is my last year after all. Before I lock myself away to the world of law school, I might as well continue indulging in all the things I probably can’t do in the near future.

Hence, welcome to my busiest year ever. This is my attempt to overwhelm you guys. :)

Now that I have finished my practicum in Congress, I finally have time for rehearsals. I miss Congress already. I miss being part of that world and working with the good people in our office. I never really had any initial expectations, but I surprisingly left the place with newfound knowledge and appreciation of a lot of things that should matter. Everyday was a chance for me to learn and experience something new. It was not just about learning politics, the dynamics of power or national issues, but also learning more about myself. I shall miss the legislative life. haha.

For now, I am incredibly excited for BlueREP’s next musical, Summer of 42. I am thrilled to be part of the cast, especially since they were only to get 3 BlueREP female members in the play. I missed performing for BlueREP so much that even if our songs can be quite difficult, I am just so grateful to be back on stage – singing, dancing and acting again. I’m one-third of a close harmony singing group (much like The Andrew Sisters of the 40s) played by Charmie, Sab and I....

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Work, either in Congress or for COA has kept me quite busy these past few days. Not that it hasn’t been any fun, because I really do find myself enjoying both. I marvel at the new things I learn and discover every time. And every new experience has been incredibly valuable. I also get the chance to meet new people – something that I’ve always enjoyed. Meeting all these influential and powerful people, and actually have that chance to exchange views, opinions and even a quite a few light-hearted moments does get quite overwhelming. But I’m really just thankful for that opportunity.

I’m truly fortunate enough to have been sent to quite a few conferences, committee hearings, offices, etc. The exposure is probably the best part of my job. I get to learn a lot of things that aren’t just merely constricted under the traditional notion of politics. It’s both fascinating and maybe even disturbing to learn about the travails and even victories (yes!) of Philippine society and let every issue that I’ve probably always known but never really understood, unfold right in front of me. It’s just so very real, and the legislative process is all too complex than I’ve ever given it credit for. It doesn’t come without the complications. And there are still a lot of very disappointing realities that come with it.

So far, the 2 weeks I’ve spent working for a congressman, attending several conferences, hearings and meetings, and meeting all these influential people have been quite an overwhelming ride. It’s tiring, yes. And the fact that I still have COA meetings and assignments to attend to does take its toll. However, I’m glad I’m learning a lot and the experience has taught me so much already. I’m also thankful it’s not some routine work because I can’t stand that. As for now, I still have around 3 weeks there, so I need this enthusiasm and interest to sustain.

I will try to update...

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