Independence Day

Independence day 🎙️ Be.Live Special: "True Independence by Depending" For Philippine Independence Day 🎵 Featuring music clips from “Independence Day” by Barbie’s Cradle and “Isang Araw” kitchie nadal’s, a new single in celebration of freedom. 🎙️ Hi, this is Roca Cruz, and welcome to a special episode of Be.Live: Be Yourself and Live Your Purpose. Today is June 12 — Philippine Independence Day. On this day in 1898, the Filipino flag was first raised in Kawit, Cavite. After over 300 years under Spanish rule, our ancestors stood up and said, “We are free.” It was bold. Costly. And not without struggle. That declaration sparked a journey we’re still on today — as a nation, and as individuals. But let me tell you: Independence has never just been about waving a flag or watching a parade. For many of us, it’s deeply personal. It’s been wrestled with. It’s been misunderstood. And sometimes, it’s been lonely. So let me ask you something: What if true independence isn’t about doing everything on your own— but about learning who to trust? What if real freedom… is found in dependence? Dependence on truth. Dependence on purpose. And yes — dependence on God. 💔 i want to share MY STORY (music fades under your voice) I didn’t grow up with healthy authority. The authority I grew up with wasn’t stable. It was inconsistent, emotionally driven — rules were made in anger, then broken when it wasn’t convenient. And for a kid? That’s not just confusing… it’s damaging." Authority wasn’t something I could trust, It wasn’t a guide… It was something I had to endure. I remember being eight years old, already trying to figure out how to escape. I’d save my allowance, became a young entrepreneur, think of ways to escape . But it was never enough. I was scared that if I ran away, I’d end up on the streets. Homeless. Vulnerable. Maybe even forced into things no child should ever think about. So I came up with a plan. Long-term. Strategic. Save money. Be smart. Stay independent. If I could just be successful enough, no one could control me again. No one could hurt me again. That was my version of freedom: My rules. My life. And maybe for a while… it worked. I got things done. I looked strong. But behind the strength… I was tired. Behind the confidence… I was still scared and alone. Listeners.. I know I’m not alone. Because maybe you’ve done the same. You built walls. You chased success. You swore you’d never need anyone. But here’s the thing I learned the hard way— the thing no one really teaches us at home or in school: ✨ Success doesn’t heal wounds. You can be doing well on paper… and still feel broken inside. ✨ Rebellion doesn’t bring peace. It might make us feel in control, but it doesn’t make us whole. Eventually, being rebellious just leaves us angry, bitter, and alone. ✨ Being alone isn’t the same as being free. We grow up learning how to survive— how to perform, how to push forward— but no one really teaches us how to heal. How to trust. How to depend… in a way that leads to real peace. ✝️ THE SHIFT That’s what changed when I met Jesus. Not religion. Not rules. But a Person I could finally trust. He didn’t treat me like the others did. He didn’t punish me when I was weak. He didn’t demand I clean myself up before He’d love me. And for the first time, I didn’t have to hustle for love. I didn’t have to carry everything by myself. I didn’t have to keep running. That’s when I realized— real independence isn’t about doing life alone. It’s about depending on the One who never leaves. The One who brings peace, not pressure. Dependence on Jesus… that’s where I found real freedom. 🎯 REFLECTION So let me ask you again: Did you grow up around people who used power to harm? Have you been chasing freedom that still leaves you tired or angry? If your answer is yes—I see you. I lived that. But you don’t have to stay there. Your story doesn’t have to end in fear or isolation. You don’t have to be defined by rebellion when you were made for purpose. 🔥 CLOSING Independence Day isn’t just a national celebration—it’s a personal one. And today, I’m not celebrating doing it all alone. I’m celebrating the day I stopped running… and started depending. It’s time to surrender to the One who truly cares — Jesus. Not because you’re weak. But because you're finally free enough to choose a better way. Free to follow, not out of fear… but out of faith. Free to depend, not because you’re broken… but because you’re loved. Depending on His grace. Depending on His truth — the kind that doesn’t shift with moods or seasons. This is what independence means to me now: The freedom to live the right way… because I’m no longer afraid. So if you’re out there right now — carrying the weight alone, tired of fighting, worn out from surviving — I want to tell you: You don’t have to do it all by yourself anymore. Freedom isn’t found in doing everything alone. It’s found in knowing who you can trust.

Episode 1

https://beyourselfandliveyourpurpose.podbean.com/e/the-title-of-episode_1/

Matthew Mateo Signs with Roca Cruz

Eyes Future in Music Emerging artist 

Matthew Mateo recently signed an Artist Management and publishing contract with Roca Cruz, a seasoned industry veteran and current President of Trimex Colleges. The signing, documented in photographs, signifies a new phase in Matthew’s musical journey, marked by his commitment to creating meaningful music for today's generation.

Upon signing, Matthew has already penned five original songs, showcasing his drive to craft tunes that resonate with listeners' hearts. His aspiration is clear: to write a song that will stand the test of time, becoming a legacy that defines his career and impacts the music scene deeply.

Matthew's enthusiasm for his craft is matched by Roca Cruz's proven record of guiding artists to greatness. With a fresh batch of original music and a clear vision for the future, Matthew is set to make waves under Roca's experienced management.

#matthewmateo

#rocacruz

Meet my new artist Matthew Mateo

In the vibrant tapestry of contemporary music, few artists manage to truly stand out with a unique sound and an undeniable passion for their craft. Matthew Mateo, a dynamic and self-taught musician, is one such rarity. His musical journey is a captivating saga of raw emotion, versatile performances, and an unyielding dedication that transcends the conventional pathways of the music industry.

A Broad Spectrum of Musical Styles

Matthew's music is a rich mosaic, showcasing a broad spectrum of styles influenced by a variety of genres. From the soul-stirring rhythms of jazz to the raw energy of rock, the heartfelt melodies of pop, and beyond, his work is a testament to the diverse influences that he seamlessly blends into his own unique sound. This eclectic approach not only defines his musical identity but also resonates with a wide audience, each finding a piece of themselves within his melodies.

A Journey Through Music

Matthew's history in music is as rich and diverse as his sound. With experience as both a solo performer and a band instrumentalist, he brings an unparalleled passion and depth to his craft. His journey involves expressing a wide range of emotions, both through original compositions and captivating covers that breathe new life into familiar tunes. Driven and independent, Matthew has navigated through various challenges from his early years, proving that dedication and love for music can overcome any obstacle.

Beyond the Notes: Matthew's Life and Inspiration

While professionally trained as a petroleum engineer, Matthew's true calling has always been music. His life's journey, encompassing both the heights of joy and depths of sorrow, is vividly reflected in his lyrical narratives and melodic expressions. It's this authenticity and raw emotion that make his music not just heard, but felt deeply by those who listen.

"Alpas": A New Musical Chapter

Currently, Matthew is promoting his latest song, "Alpas" - a track that encapsulates his journey, struggles, and triumphs. "Alpas" symbolizes liberation and the breaking of chains that hold one back, mirroring Matthew's own leap from a conventional career to following his musical dreams.

Connect with Matthew Mateo

Don't miss out on the chance to explore Matthew Mateo's musical world. Follow him on his journey, listen to his stories, and be part of the emotions he weaves through his songs. Connect with him through the following platforms:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2v4R29EsvorwgULPlLDR3M?si=TwnRkFE-Sx6Htz0YRFscXg

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Social Media Links

 Instagram: #Matthewmateo

 Facebook: Matthew Mateo 

Matthew Mateo's musical voyage is a vivid reminder of the power of passion and the unbreakable bond between a musician and his craft. As he continues to explore and evolve, his music remains a beacon of inspiration and emotion, touching hearts and souls across the globe. Join him on this journey and be part of the magic that is Matthew Mateo's music.

Kitchie worshiping with the homeless 2009

His name is romano..

Wishbeer craft bankok

I super love craft beer.. So when I travel I try the local craft beer brew.

I'm in wishbeer craft beer bar Bangkok Thailand. I'm trying out Cha LA Wan (crocodile) pale ale. It's full bodied, not so bitter. Yum!

Vlogging using warm lights

Vlogging using warm lights

Trying this blogger app

Il be traveling again soon and this blogger app might help me to post more content.
Hope it wil be more convent for me to blog 😇😊❤️

Interview with Gina Lopez Chairman of Abs Cbn Foundation October 2014

This interview is for my class Renewal and change in Education.

Gina Lopez shares her passion regarding education :)

My notes on my Myanmar- Bagan and Inle lake

Travelled from Manila to Yangon (Singapore Airlines $200 roundtrip) then Yangon to Bagan. 

Bought an MPT sim card with 1G data. 7,000 kyat for the sim $3 for the load.

Took a Yangon airport taxi to bus station only 5000 kyat. Don't take the taxi drivers out side, they are over priced.

Yangon to Bagan by JJ express bus. 1x1x1 seater ($20.99)The bus ride was long but bearable. Comfortable seats and the bus had a toilet.  It was cold so bring a jacket and a bonnet. The bus company provided a blanket, snacks, water and a neck pillow.

- Bagan taxi to hotel 8T kyat to Shwe Na Di Guest House ( private room with bathroom $27) double occupancy. loved it. Breakfast was filling. 

2. In Bagan 
2nd day 
Pictures

1st day I went around Horse cart $20. 10 pagodas 

Lunch 4T kyat set meal of friend fish, chicken curry, mutton curry, pork curry vegetables. Watermelon

- beware i was dupped to buy a souvenir for  $20, oh well. 

Great breakfast at the hotel. Watermelon, plantain bananas,  coffee, toast with jam and samosas.

Lunch next door for 1000 kyat noodles soup, very good. Small serving perfect for me.

sunset river bike ride with Grashopper. The ride was moderately difficult for me because of the muddy roads. The guide was helpful very informative.

Had dinner with thai ladies on vacation. Salad and beer for 3T kyat.

Took the bus to inle. Hard to sleep.. 

Taking the bus to Inle Lake. Bus searing is 1x1x1. The best seating for long bus rides. 

3. INLE Lake.

3rd day checked inn at Sweet Inn at 430am. They let me check in early with no extra charge. Also they offered free breakfast. The breakfast opened 7am. I had the traditional breakfast sticky noodle soup. It was new to me, tasted good. This breakfast comes with a pot of coffee and fruits.

15000 or $13 solo for the inle river tour. Silver smith, market, monastery,  long neck women, burmese cat breeding propagation.

I couldn't really look at the long neck women because i have neck problems.. so looking at them makes my neck hurt.

Back to the No-poo and No-soap

Im back to no-poo and no soap!
I did this as a challenge 2010 for 6 months and loved it. I was using baking soda and vinegar alternately. The result was softer hair, softer and clean feeling skin, no need to use lotions.

I stopped doing it after six months, and now 2016 I'm going to use apple cider vinegar for my hair and skin. I am hoping i can do this for a year.