Jed Yuseco's Blog

Exit '05, Enter '06

In a few days, 2005 will be passe and a new year will dawn upon us.

2005 has certainly been a very harsh year worldwide, especially here in the States, having been severely affected by natural calamities and the ongoing war in Iraq. Nevertheless, with the economy showing some positive signs of improvement, we're hoping the coming year will bring prosperity back to the United States.

As for the Philippines, what more can I say. As the country continues to suffer from a stagnant economy plagued by political bickerings, we can only pray that God will wake up our poor nation which has been in the doldrums for so long now. Beset with all these problems, one must not lose hope. The peso has rebounded well as it is now around 53PHP to the US Dollar, as compared to around 3 months ago when it was around 57PHP to a dollar. A good sign indeed.

The Philippines is a great nation. It is composed of islands teeming with abundant sources of food and its population is considered one of the best hard working people in the whole world. If only its leaders would cease their internal 'cha-cha', set aside their personal agenda and instead concentrate in improving the plight of the masses. It is not too late .... never too late.

Happy 2006 to one and all. Mabuhay tayong lahat!

A Night With a Friend, an Idol

When you speak of BOY KATINDIG, you are talking about the Philippines' pioneer in jazz fusion. His music dates back to the years when bars like the Vineyard or the Birds of the Same Feather were the Filipinos' favorite jazz hangouts, when show bands like the famous Circus band ruled the scene.

Since then, with his dad immigrating to the States, Boy followed suit, bringing with him a style of jazz which is undisputedly his signature ... cool, smooth, funky, and melodic. And just like any Filipino musician who has crossed the shores with dreams of performing to a wider audience, he had to work his way back from scratch. Life cannot always be like a bed of roses, especially when you are in the field of entertainment.

Fortunately, his talent has been noted here in the States, giving him the opportunity to perform with popular jazz artists like David Beniot, Russ Freeman of the Rippingtons, Abe Laboriel, to name a few. Now based in Las Vegas, he is usually on the road with saxman Paul Taylor and on the side, he also has gigs of his own together with his band.

I finally caught up with him in Vegas, where he recently played the keyboards for Paul Taylor's concert at the Sta. Fe Station last Saturday, the 10th. After the show, he was a gracious host, having dinner together and reminiscing about the good old days. Hahaha .... 2 guys talking about nothing but jazz ... our waiter must have been wondering what the hell our conversation was :) Time flied so fast that it was already waaaay past midnight that we parted our ways and promised to keep in touch. No doubt about it.

Mabuhay ka, Boy! May God continue to shower you with his blessings and may your jazz music live on forever!

I Stand Corrected

With 4 more days before the conclusion of the 23rd SEA Games, the Philippines continues to surprisingly dominate the competition with a total of 157 medals, 63 of them being gold. Erstwhile favorites Vietnam and Thailand are in 2nd and 3rd positions, garnering 47 and 38 golds respectively.

Given the short period of time the Filipino athletes had to prepare and train for this event, it is truly impressive how they have managed to perform way above expectations. Though it is true that there are some Fil-Ams 'naturalized' to be able to participate in this meet, this does not deter my admiration to the TRUE filipino athletes as they overcame tremendous odds to excel in front of their countrymen. If our country is able to sustain its momentum and eventually capture 1st place in these games, it will surely be a very memorable feat and will rightfully have a place in the annals of Philippine sports.

Mabuhay to all the athletes!