I must be really getting rusty, or just too slow on the draw lately. I can’t believe that after 4 weeks (or is it 5?), I still haven’t made a post for my Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs of 2010 when I was one of those who made an early post about it, after Janette announced the contest.

Well, as they say, better late than later   so here I am presenting my list of blogs for this years Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs.

Mequeni Cabalen
I am a proud Kapampangan! Maybe non-Kapampangans cannot understand what Jules and Jaypee are writing in their blog, but I assure you that it is no-nonsense Kapampangan literature, promoting the cultures, life and happenings in Pampanga.

I urge all our Kapampangan and non-Kapampangan friends to please support a blog that promotes one of our country’s richest culture.

Your My Love Poems
Everyone is mushy, whether we admit it or not. And from a self–proclaimed poet who expresses his “mushyness” through poetry, it is no surprise that a blog who writes and talks about love made it on my list. A blog maintained by my friend Paige – love and poetry, a perfect combination indeed.

Wag Na Lang
Why would I nominate a blog that says “Don’t bother” or  “No, thanks?” Simple, just visit the blog and you will what I mean. Kring del Rosario expresses his brand of humor through the pictures and the captions to match them in his blog.

NomNom Club
A food blog by last year’s fellow awardee, Jonel. NomNom Club features food, events with foods, places with foods, and delicious foods. Oh, did I mention food? For a blogger who travels a lot, Jonel sure knows where to find the food and the delicious events that goes with it.

When In Manila
Seriously, when I saw Vince’s blog on the list of nominees of other bloggers, I was surprised. Not surprised because he was included, but surprised because all the while, I thought his blog has been in existence since time immemorial! Okay, not that long. But yes, I was surprised he just created it last year, already has so much follower. Well, for the man who can convince me to video blog, he should really be included in my list.

So there they are, my list of Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010. I know, they are not yet complete. I’m not yet finished anyway, and there is still time to scout for five more blogs

This writing project is made possible through the kindness of the following sponsors: Events and Corporate Video, Budget Hotel In Makati, Pinoy Party Food, Copyediting Services, PR Agency Philippines, Budget Travel Philippines, Send Gifts to the Philippines, Black Friday Deals, Roomrent – units for rent, Search Profile Index and Corporate Events Organizer.

UPDATE:
This list has already been completed. See the complete list in this post.

Thank you.

Just because the iBlog6 blogging summit is all about blogging, it doesn’t mean the day’s proceedings would be confined to search engine optimization, making money online and niche marketing. After all, blogging involved a medley of interests.

That is why it is not surprising that in the recent iBlog6, there was an intermission number performed by The UP Concert Chorus, courtesy of fellow blogger and friend Rey Rombawa Jr.

The UP Concert Chorus or UPCC, is a five-time Aliw Awardee for Best Choral Group, the group that performed were just some of the members as many are on tour performing in different parts of the world (yes, we were fortunate to be graced upon by an internationally acclaimed choral group).

But small as they are in numbers, their performance was definitely not lacking, as they sang three songs in a very beautiful a capella rendition. The first one was Alleluia, followed by Martin Nievera’s Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin, and Pamulinawen being their last song.

Here are the videos of their intermission number at the iblog6. Pardon the poor quality of the video, as I was using a low-end type of digital camera.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_HJTqI-Qxs

with their first song Alleluia

www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrqJbBax7FI

their second song Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin

www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV-65YQcQ_c

and their last number Pamulinawen

Thank you Rey and the rest of the UPCC for gracing the blogging summit, and again, can I request Atin Cu Pung Singsing next time?

Nothing like a good company to rekindle a passion, and for bloggers, iblog6 is the perfect venue not just for newbie bloggers, but for burned-out bloggers as well.

The beauty about blogging is that, there is no “been there, done that” kind of thing. There would always be something new. Even for seasoned bloggers (read: old timers), whether they admit it or not, can learn a thing or two.

And iblog6 did just that for this struggling blogger.

For one, I learned the difference between a “real” political blogger from a “bandwagon rider” and what is the mission (or social responsibility) of the latter. I admit, I could be just one of those “riders” as I don’t really like blogging about politics, but would spew out unsolicited opinions every now and then, especially when there’s a hot issue on hand.

That is why Marc Ronald Rimorin’s presentation was an eye opener for me. It is not the mission (and should not be) of a political blogger to stir a hornet’s nest, per se, but to chronicle and document the events, and hopefully, as we mature politically in future, the past events would help us make the right decisions in the present.

And as I told him yesterday, Vinco Golango’s presentation was really very convincing that I want to start my own video blog! Honest! I am just thinking of a subject that I can sustain. I definitely wouldn’t dare go “boom boom paw!” on YouTube.

But it was Hanna Villasis who started the ball rolling with Blogging lalala… (she doesn’t want to use Blogging 101). Just when you think you know about blogging, she reminded us all with going back to the basics, why are we blogging in the first place? And let’s not forget to have fun, while we’re at it.

Juned Sonido came complete with his arsenals — all types cameras from the film versions to the digital versions, with a journalist’s vest even. His presentation in photo blogging is really helpful to me as I have just started my photo blog this year.

Before I forgot, our friend Rey, together with  The UP Concert Chorus performed in an intermission where they sang three songs — Alleluia, Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin and Pamulinawen, in a very beautiful a capella rendition. Yes, I have a video and will have a separate post for them.

Next time Rey, can I request for Atin Cu Pung Singsing?

Noemi Dado delivered her talk on online commentaries, social media and election blogging. She came with her whole entourage from Blogwatch. Now, that is what a team is all about.

Jinoe Gavan shared his experiences and gave some tips on how to run a successful blog contest. He even gave away two gift certificates. Too bad, I wasn’t able to run immediately to the microphone, I have a perfect idea on how to tie-up that diaper with his running niche.

Joseph Gonzales literally brought the house down with his candid presentation on the impact of blogging to the community, and effectively selling Baler to the audience. Now, everybody wants to go to Baler.

And Marhgil Macuha wrapped up the session with his presentation on how bloggers can maximize making money online through search engine optimization or SEO.

With networking and socialization as my foremost motivation to attend the event, I was able to muster enough courage to introduce myself to other bloggers.

Hannah Villasis and Vince Golangco where the first ones I met because they were early (being the first two speakers). I was also able to introduce myself to Miss Noemi Dado, Manny Viloria and John B. Bejo.

I also met on Pinoy Gossip Boy, Jay S. Aquino and Rommel Copuyoc for the first time. In the event, I also say Kelvin and Fitz Villafuerte. I was also fortunate to meet two other Kapampangan bloggers in the event (please comment here if you happen to pass by, I’m too ashamed to admit that I’m a little deaf that’s why I didn’t get your names).

As usual, there really isn’t enough time to meet all the bloggers. But there would still be future events where I can finally get to know all of them, hopefully.

By the way, I attended the event together with a fellow blogger from Angeles City, Paige who was very excited with her first blogging event. I hope you enjoyed yourself, Paige.

And finally, congratulations Janette and the rest of the organizers of iBlog6, and thank you for organizing this blogging summit.

More power to all of you!

Some photos can be seen here.

Addendum:
The two Pampanga bloggers I met were Louie Sison and Josie. Nice to meet you guys! Hopefully, we could organize our group soon. See you ’round!

In this rather late post, I would like to enumerate some of the blogging events in 2010 that I have been a part of, or at least have heard about, last year. I said late because I already made a post on the two of them.

Anyway, these are some of the blogging events that I wish to attend this year.

The first blogging event that will take place this April, which is now on its 6th installment.

iBlog6 will be held on April 16 & 17, 2010 at the Malcolm Hall, UP College of Law, UP Diliman, Quezon City.

Spearheaded by the energetic Janette Toral, the 6th Philippine Blogging Summit will tackle subjects like, relevance of blogging to business, creating buzz through blogs, the different blogging niche… and yes, including Blogging 101 for those who want to start blogging.

Register here for free and see you at the iBlog6!

The Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs of 2010 will kick off this May. Winners will be announced and awarded in a major blogging event this August.

This is one project where I have been a very active part of last year, and I wish to bring in that same enthusiasm this year if only give back what this event has done for me.

Another project by Janette, The Emerging Influential Blogs award aims to give, not only recognition, but to encourage new blogs and blogger to continue developing their craft and to take an active part in this wonderful world called blogging.

The Philippine Blog Awards is another annual event “that aims to give recognition to outstanding blogs in, but not limited to the Filipino Blogging Community.”

I was never a part of this last year, I don’t think I was even able to vote (if ever there was voting involved) on those who were nominated for this award.

Recognitions are given to blogs in different categories, like technology, personal, business, travel and news, among others.

No date is still given for this year’s event, although it was usually held at the latter part of the year.

“Excited” would be an understatement if I would describe the feeling I have in anticipation of this event.

Without prejudice to the other events, this is the event that I want to attend most this year. Perhaps the term “word” in the WordCamp have some psychological effect to this trying-hard-wannabe-aspiring-writer.

Truth to tell, I am clueless about this event and really don’t know what to expect. But I am curious and I really want to know what this camp for “worders” is all about.

The date for this year is set on October 2, 1010 although there are still no information given as to the venue of the event. Stay tuned to this blog for more information.

Of course, Kapampangans won’t be outdone. Thanks to Kabalen Rachel who spearheaded the Pampanga Blogging Workshop 101 which will be held on April 24, 2010 at the Universe Internet Cafe, 2nd floor,  SM City, City of San Fernando, Pampanga (Beside SM Cinema 4, 5 & 6)

Rachel will have no less than Janette Toral as the resource person in this first major blogging event in Pampanga.

To all Kapampangans (and non-Kapampangans alike), who want to know what is a blog and to learn how to blog, this event is for you. And tor all Kapampangan bloggers, this is a great opportunity for us to meet and see the people behind the blogs.

For more information on this blogging workshop, visit Rachel’s post.

There you are, some of the blogging events this year that I hope to take part of. If you know of other blogging events, do give me a buzz. It’s one of my blogging goal this year… to reach out and get to meet more bloggers.

Yes! It’s that time of the year again!

iBlog blogging summit will always be memorable to me, as iBlog5 was the first ever blogging event I attended, and I’m really looking forward to attending iBlog6!

With iBlog6 just around the corner, I am really excited, and yes!  I have already registered. This year, it would be a two-day event, which means more topics to be covered, and more opportunities for fellowship with other bloggers!

The iBlog: The 6th Philippine Blogging Summit will be on April 16 and 17, 2010, at the Malcom Theater, UP College of Law, UP Diliman, 8 am to 5 pm.

And just like last year, this blogging event is FREE! So REGISTER NOW!

Businesses and entrepreneurs who want to tap blogs (and blogging) as a marketing tool, will be the main focus of the first day (April 16), and the second day (April 17) would dwell on the topics of blogging in general.

The schedule of activities for the two-day event are as follows:

Day 1 (April 16, 2010)
9:00 – 9:20 Opening Ceremonies (National Anthem, Welcome)
9:20 – 9:40 Blogging for Business (Janette Toral)
9:45 – 10:05 Tapping Bloggers to Generate Buzz (Jayvee Fernandez)
10:20 to 10:35 BREAK
10:35 – 10:55 Advertising in Blogs (Abe Olandres)
11:10 – 11:40 SPONSOR talk
12:00 – 1:15 LUNCH / NETWORKING
1:15 – 1:35 SEO & Blogging to Promote Your Business (Francis Gary Viray)
1:50 – 2:10 Measuring Blog Buzz (Carlo Ople)
2:25 – 2:45 Legal Concerns in Blogging for Business (JJ Disini)
3:00 – 3:20 BREAK
3:20 – 3:40 Blogger and Advertiser: What is the Win-Win Relationship? (Diana Paterno)
3:55 – 4:15 Online Attraction Marketing (Manuel Viloria)
4:30 RAFFLE and GROUP PICTURE

Day 2 (April 17, 2010)
8:45 Opening Ceremonies (National Anthem & Welcome)
9:00 – 9:20 Blogging 101 (Hannah Villasis)
9:30 – 10:00 Video Blogging 101 (Vince Golangco)
10:15 – 10:35 Photo Blogging 101 (Juned Sonido)
10:50 – 11:05 BREAK
11:05 – 11:40 Political, Online Commentary, Social Media, & Election Blogging 2010 (Marck Ronald Rimorin and Noemi Dado)
12:00 – 1:15 LUNCH & NETWORKING
1:15 – 1:35 (SPONSOR TALK)
1:50 – 2:10 Launching Successful Blog Contests (Jinoe Gavan)
2:25 – 2:45 Blog Policies (UP-ISP)
3:00 – 3:15 BREAK
3:15 – 3:35 Impact of Blogging to the Community (Joseph Gonzales)
3:50 – 4:10 SEO: A Must for Making Money Online (Marhgil Macuha)
4:30 RAFFLE, iBlog Video Contest Winner Announcement, & GROUP PHOTO

Too bad, I have work on Fridays so I have already just registered for the 2nd day. The business for blogging topics are interesting (still convincing myself to file a leave of absence on that day   )

But the second day topics are interesting as well

See you there!

So this is my not-so-late post about my iBlog5 experience, and just like everybody else, I enjoyed the day. And why can’t I? I’m in the company of friends! The trip all from Angeles City was really worth it!

Thanks to Zorlone who picked me up from MRT North Station, otherwise I wouldn’t know my way to event. And there I was finally able to meet Mon of Fatherlyours and Snow of Dear Bloggery. During the breaks I was also able to meet Ceblogger and Jonel Uy.

Of course, I made sure that I get to meet Janette Toral, because in events like this you got to meet and at least shake hands with the proponents… and even better, thanks to Snow, we have a picture together with Janette.

Now I can brag that I know Janette, and she knows me

(@Reyna Elena, am I doing good in my social climbing lessons so far?)

My only regret is that I haven’t really met the other bloggers. Of course there was a fellowship after the event, unfortunately I have to travel all the way to Angeles City and my kids don’t have anybody with them at home.

Looking forward to the next iBlog event, and perhaps I would get to know more bloggers then.

Get to read all the other posts about the event here:

• The iBlog5 Afterglow (Janette)
• My iBlog5 Experience (Snow)
• iBlog5: A FabOUlous Event (Kring)
• Live Blogging at Iblog 5 | Pictures and Experience @ iblog 5 ( Dexter )
• blog5 – A Success (Mon)
• iBlog5: The Philippine Blogging Summit (Villa)
• iBlog5, and Coffee With Girl Friday (Judd)
• Blogging About My iBlog5 Experience (Louis)
• iBlog 5 (Niki)
• Ako Mismo a hot topic on iBlog5 (Lawrence)
• iBlog5- 5th Philippine Blogging Summit ( Noemi )
• iBlog5: The 5th Philippine Blogging Summit (Jen)
• iBlog5: The 5th Philippine Blogging Summit (Rochelle)
• iBlog5 Summit and It’s Munificent Speakers (Ada)
• iBlog5, therefore I am (Kevin)
• The iBlog5 Summit (EdZee)
• iBlog5 Postscript – of Mobile Blogging and the Elections (Edwin)
• What I Learned From The iBlog5 Philippine Blogging Summit (Earth)
• I Blog 5 (Rommel)

Pictures courtesy of Snow

My Bad! I almost forgot about this event — the 5th Philippine Blogging Summit, and the deadline for registration is already on April 30, 2009!

I actually registered here as early as February, and because of two many blogs to take care of, it slipped my mind.

I do hope it is not yet too late to invite all my blogging buddies to this event so we all can meet in this blogging summit.

The event will be on May 9, 2009 at the Malcolm Theater, UP College of Law, UP Diliman, and it will an 8am to 5pm affair. And yes, I know you would ask that, REGISTRATION IS FREE!

Before I wrote this post, I visited the official site and saw that there are already 427 registrants. This is definitely one happy event. I saw on the list familiar names like Roel and a long-time entrep forum buddy Gwen.

And I would like to invite more friends – Jan, Doc Z, Jena Isle, Snow, Sir Mon, Elmot, etc., etc. etc. it would be a great opportunity for as to gather in one occassion and meet other bloggers as well.

I am really looking forward to attending this event. My very first blogging summit.

So please, register here, and let’s all have a fun and meaningful day.

And one more thing… I don’t know how to get to UP Diliman!!!! So won’t you please attend so we can all go together?