David B.Katague, B.S., M.S., M.A, Ph.D. Sunset Photo from the Balcony of the Chateau Du Mer Beach House, Boac,Marinduque,Philippines
Welcome to My Site
If this is your first visit, welcome! This site is devoted to my life experiences as a Filipino-American who immigrated from the Philippines to the United States in 1960. I came to the US as a graduate student when I was 26 years old. I am now in my mid-80's and thanks God for his blessings, I have four successful and professional children and six grandchildren here in the US. My wife and I had been enjoying the snow bird lifestyle between US and Philippines after my retirement from USFDA in 2002. Macrine(RIP),Me and my oldest son are the Intellectual migrants. Were were born in the Philippines, came to the US in 1960 and later became US citizens in 1972. Some of the photos and videos in this site, I do not own. However, I have no intention on infringing on your copyrights. Cheers!
A recent study reveals that cats see humans as oversized kittens, not their owners. This fascinating discovery shifts our understanding of the relationship between humans and their feline companions, offering new insights into the complex ways in which animals perceive us. While we often view cats as independent and self-sufficient creatures, it turns out that they see us through the lens of familiarity and comfort, much like they would a fellow kitten.
This perspective invites us to reimagine our bond with our feline friends. Rather than viewing them as distant or aloof, we can see them as creatures that see us as part of their social circle, a role often filled by their littermates. It’s a beautiful reminder that animals, too, experience relationships and connections that are not bound by human ideas of ownership or control but are instead based on trust and affection.
This shift in understanding not only deepens our connection with our pets but also emphasizes the profound ways in which animals view the world and those they share it with. Our role in their lives is not defined by authority but by companionship and care, as they see us as equals, large versions of themselves with whom they share their space and their love.
It’s a humbling reminder that love is not a hierarchy but a mutual bond that transcends size and form. Whether they are cuddling on the couch or curling up beside us at night, our cats see us not as masters, but as part of their family.
In Addition
Cats have long been mysterious companions, and recent findings suggest that they may possess an uncanny ability to sense the unseen. Studies reveal that cats can "predict" human death by detecting subtle chemical changes in breath and skin long before a person’s passing. Their heightened senses allow them to detect changes that are invisible to the human eye, offering a glimpse into the profound connection between animals and humans.
This extraordinary ability speaks to the depth of connection between species and the intuitive wisdom animals possess. Cats, in their quiet observation, seem to understand the rhythms of life and death in ways we are only beginning to comprehend. Their presence during times of illness or transition reminds us of the deep bond that exists between us and the animal kingdom—a bond that transcends language and connects us on an energetic level.
The ability of animals to sense the unseen forces around us reminds us that there is much we have yet to learn about the world. The connection between humans and animals is more than just physical; it is spiritual, rooted in a shared awareness of life’s mysteries. By respecting and honoring animals, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of the world we inhabit and the unseen forces that shape our lives.
In a world that often seeks to explain everything through the lens of science, the intuitive wisdom of animals offers a reminder that there is much more to reality than meets the eye. It’s through our connection with them that we come to understand the vast interconnectedness of all living beings.
Meanwhile, here's the latest photo of my Batman and Robin playing: 1-2-26
Finally, Did you know that....
We know the country was named after King Philip II of Spain, but during the revolution, our founders wanted a hard rebrand away from anything colonial. Andres Bonifacio didn’t like “Filipinas” at all, he called the nation “Haring Bayan” or “Katagalugan.” Back then, “Tagalog” didn’t just mean a language; it meant Tao sa Ilog, a term Bonifacio used to represent all people born in the islands, not just Manila. Lowkey, the original idea was a people-based nation, not a Spanish-branded one.
1. Global financial and geopolitical tensions surge Top central bankers defend Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell amid a controversial U.S. Department of Justice investigation; oil prices rise as the U.S. threatens tariffs on countries trading with Iran.
2. Russia launches major new attack on Ukraine’s power grid Another significant Russian strike hit Ukraine’s electrical infrastructure in freezing conditions, causing casualties and widespread outages.
3. Death toll from nationwide protests in Iran rises dramatically Activists report at least 2,000 people have been killed in ongoing protests across Iran, highlighting a continuing violent crackdown.
4. Mass resignations at U.S. Justice Department Civil Rights Division Multiple senior prosecutors are leaving amid concerns over perceived inaction on high-profile civil rights cases.
5. Scott Adams, creator of Dilbert, dies at 68 The cartoonist known for his satirical take on office life has passed away, prompting reflections on his cultural impact.
When the Underdog Roars: Reflections on the 49ers–Eagles Game
Yesterday’s afternoon football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles offered more than just four quarters of competition. It delivered yet another reminder of why sports, especially football continue to resonate so deeply across cultures and generations: the enduring power of the underdog.
On paper, the Eagles were supposed to win. They had momentum, confidence, and the weight of expert predictions behind them. The 49ers, by contrast, arrived with doubts trailing them, injuries, questions about depth, and the quiet skepticism that follows any team labeled as “overmatched.” Yet, when the final whistle blew, it was the underdog who stood tall.
This is not just a football story. It is a human one.
Underdog victories have a universal appeal because they mirror life as most of us live it. Around the world, people wake up every day facing odds they did not choose, economic hardship, illness, displacement, age, or simply being underestimated. When a team like the 49ers defies expectation, it taps into a shared hope: that preparation, belief, and perseverance still matter, even in an era obsessed with power rankings and probability models.
What stood out to me was not bravado or trash talk, but discipline. The 49ers played with patience, took what was given, and trusted each other. Football, at its best, is not about stars alone, it is about systems, timing, and collective effort. The Eagles may have had the louder narrative, but the 49ers had the quieter strength of focus.
As someone who has been blogging for well over fifteen years, I’ve seen this same pattern repeat itself far beyond sports. Whether writing about immigration, aging, health, family, technology, or personal faith, the theme is familiar: progress rarely comes from those who are favored. It comes from those who persist when the spotlight is elsewhere.
There is also a lesson here about humility. Favorites often play not to lose; underdogs play to win. The difference is subtle but profound. One is cautious, the other courageous. Yesterday’s game reminded us that courage, on a football field or in life still carries its own momentum.
For my readers around the world who may not follow American football closely, think of this game as a parable. Empires fall. Assumptions crumble. And sometimes, the side we least expect reminds us why belief, preparation, and teamwork remain timeless virtues.
The underdog won yesterday. Not just on the scoreboard, but in reaffirming something we all need to hear from time to time: the story is never finished before the game is played.
And that, perhaps, is why we keep watching.
Meanwhile, here's the AI Overview on the Above Game:
,
The San Francisco 49ers, considered
6-point underdogs, defied expectations to defeat the Philadelphia Eagles 23-19 in the NFC Wild Card game on Sunday, January 11, 2026. The win was a testament to the team's resilience in the face of injuries and a hostile road environment.
Game Summary
The 49ers overcame a 13-10 halftime deficit with key plays in the second half. The turning points included a trick-play touchdown pass from wide receiver Jauan Jennings to Christian McCaffrey in the fourth quarter to take the lead and a crucial fourth-down defensive stop late in the game by linebacker Eric Kendricks to seal the victory.
San Francisco 49ers: Quarterback Brock Purdy shook off two interceptions and strong winds to lead two fourth-quarter scoring drives, showing remarkable mental toughness. Demarcus Robinson had a standout performance with 111 receiving yards, including a 61-yard catch that set up an early touchdown. The team's "next-man-up" mentality was highlighted by new linebackers Wallow and Kendricks stepping up admirably amid a string of injuries.
Philadelphia Eagles: The defending Super Bowl champions' season ended on a disappointing note, marked by a season-long offensive inconsistency that saw them fail to score 20 points against a winning team for the seventh straight game. Running back Saquon Barkley was a bright spot, with 106 rushing yards, but the passing game struggled to connect on deep throws, and play-calling came under scrutiny.
Key Statistics
Team
Quarterback Rating
Total Yards
Turnovers
Rushing Yards
49ers
80.3
386 (approx)
2
114 (approx)
Eagles
64.3 (approx)
307 (approx)
0
106
Note: Statistics are approximations derived from various snippets.
Reflections
The game underscored the 49ers' identity as a resilient team that thrives under pressure and noise, a narrative emphasized by their players and coaches post-game. For the Eagles, the loss highlighted significant underlying offensive issues and potentially sets the stage for offseason changes in coaching staff. The 49ers, having overcome the odds, advance to face the Seattle Seahawks in the Divisional Round.
Once upon a time, the Philippines was expected to become Southeast Asia’s next tourism giant. With over 7,600 islands, turquoise waters, and some of the warmest people on Earth, it looked unstoppable. But fast-forward to today and the numbers tell a sobering story.
In 2025, the Philippines welcomed only about 3.9 million international visitors. Meanwhile, its neighbors surged ahead:
Malaysia – 28 million
Thailand – 21 million
Vietnam – 13.9 million
Singapore – 11.6 million
Indonesia – 10 million
The gap isn’t about beauty. It’s about access.
The Road That Never Got Built
In Thailand or Vietnam, tourists step off the plane and immediately ride clean, fast trains and buses to almost anywhere. In the Philippines, many dream destinations still require multiple flights, long van rides, boat transfers, and unpredictable schedules. Paradise exists but reaching it often feels like a quest.
The Price of Paradise
Surprisingly, traveling in the Philippines often costs more than in Vietnam or Thailand. Hotels, domestic flights, island tours, and even food can be pricier without offering the same level of infrastructure or convenience. For budget travelers, value matters.
Fewer Doors In
While neighbors aggressively opened direct flights, simplified visas, and promoted tourism digitally, the Philippines lagged. Fewer international connections mean fewer spontaneous travelers and fewer first-timers.
Perception Matters
Concerns about safety, natural disasters, slow internet, and inconsistent services quietly shape travel choices. Even when reality is better than perception, perception still wins.
The Philippines doesn’t lack wonders. It lacks bridges to those wonders.
And until access, affordability, and ease improve, the most beautiful islands in the world will remain a secret, when they deserve to be a celebration.
Tourism isn’t just about destinations. It’s about access. It’s about ease. It’s about price. It’s about trust.
Our neighbors built bridges to their beauty. We still make visitors climb over barriers to reach ours.
And until we fix that, the world won’t see what we already know: That the Philippines isn’t lacking wonders. It’s lacking the systems that let those wonders shine.
Meanwhile, here's the AI Overview
The Philippines lags in tourism due to
poor infrastructure (roads, airports, water), high costs (flights, hotels), safety/stability concerns (crime, terrorism, extreme weather), and weak government investment compared to rivals like Thailand/Vietnam, leading to a less convenient, more expensive, and less reliable experience, despite beautiful natural assets. Key issues include underdeveloped transport links, inconsistent service quality, and a lack of seamless connectivity with other Asian destinations, making travel burdensome.
Key Reasons for Lagging Tourism
Infrastructure Deficits:
Poor roads, unreliable airports, and insufficient public transport.
Inadequate basic services like water, electricity, and waste management.
Lack of seamless connectivity and airline alliances compared to regional competitors.
High Costs & Poor Value:
Domestic flights and overall trip costs are often higher than in neighboring countries.
Perceived poor quality of facilities (WiFi, rooms) relative to price.
Safety & Stability Concerns:
Warnings for terrorism and crime in certain areas.
Political instability and high crime rates contribute to a negative perception.
Inconsistent Service & Bureaucracy:
Issues with petty theft, scams (taxis), and inconsistent service quality.
Difficulties with payments (cash-heavy) and cumbersome processes.
Competition & Strategy:
Lags significantly behind Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam in visitor numbers.
Underinvestment in quality tourism development and promotion compared to rivals.
External Factors:
Global economic shifts (like a weaker Korean Won) affecting key markets.
What Needs Improvement?
Strategic government investment in infrastructure.
Lower domestic travel costs and better airline connectivity.
Enhanced safety measures and public order.
Focus on delivering world-class value that matches prices.
Addressing issues like trash and consistent service quality.
In Addition,
A tourism map of Southeast Asia is drawing attention for what it reveals beyond travel trends. Southeast asia tourism map highlights strength of systems, not just destinations.
The circulating Southeast Asia tourism map is being viewed as more than a guide on where to travel. Instead, it offers a visual lesson on how national systems function. Countries with higher tourist arrivals commonly show efficient mass transportation, stable internet and digital access, clear pricing and regulations, and consistent implementation of policies rather than promotion alone.
My Photo of the Day:
Great Grandson- Beau David Joseph- 6 months old...
Lastly, the top five News of the Day
1. Iran protests intensify — Trump says Iran wants to negotiate President Donald Trump says Iranian leaders have expressed interest in negotiating with the U.S. amid escalating unrest and threats of U.S. military action as the death toll rises and mass protests continue.
2. Tensions with Cuba grow — Cuban president vows defense As President Trump pushes for a deal with Cuba, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel warns the nation will defend itself “to the last drop of blood,” highlighting rising geopolitical strains.
3. U-Haul incident at anti-Iran regime rally in Los Angeles Chaos erupted when a U-Haul vehicle drove into a crowd at an anti-Iranian regime demonstration near the federal building in Westwood, California; authorities are investigating.
4. Market and economic volatility amid political pressure on the Fed “Sell America” sentiment spread in markets as the Trump administration’s criticisms of the Federal Reserve sparked investor uncertainty, affecting stocks and risk assets.
5. Golden Globes 2026 winners announced Entertainment news: the Golden Globes 2026 winners were revealed, with One Battle After Another leading film awards and Adolescence dominating TV categories.
Neil deGrasse Tyson’s statement, “Not that anybody asked, but one-third (95 out of 289) of all American Nobel Prizes in the Sciences have been earned by immigrants to the United States,” offers a profound reflection on the contributions that immigrants have made to the advancement of knowledge and science. This fact not only challenges conventional narratives but also serves as a reminder of how diverse perspectives and backgrounds drive progress.
Immigrants have long been at the forefront of innovation, bringing unique insights, experiences, and creativity to their fields. Tyson’s words underscore the undeniable truth that the United States, and the world at large, has benefited immeasurably from the talents and contributions of those who come from different corners of the globe. The richness of scientific discovery is inextricably linked to the ability to embrace diversity and to foster an environment where all minds, regardless of origin, can contribute.
In a time when immigration is a topic of heated debate, Tyson’s reminder that the scientific community and humanity as a whole thrives when open to new ideas and new people is a crucial one. It calls on us to remember that progress is not a solitary effort but a collective one, built on the contributions of many.
As we reflect on this, we are reminded of the power of inclusion and the importance of recognizing the value of all individuals, regardless of where they come from. It’s in this space of open exchange that the greatest breakthroughs occur.
The chart illustrates Al competitiveness across countries, reflecting how prepared nations are in developing, adopting, and scaling artificial intelligence technologies. Based on scores from the Global Al Vibrancy Tool by Stanford University, the data shows a tight race among leading economies, highlighting Al as a critical pillar of future economic growth, innovation, and geopolitical influence.
At the top of the ranking, the United States leads with a score of 83.12%, maintaining its dominance through strong research institutions, major Al companies, and deep venture capital support. China follows in second place at 79.29%, driven by massive state-backed investment, large-scale data availability, and rapid deployment across industries. India ranks third with 78.88%, signaling its growing role as a global Al hub supported by a large tech workforce, expanding startups, and increasing government focus on digital transformation.
Just behind the top three are South Korea, the UK, and Singapore, all clustered closely around the 78% mark, showing how competitive the global Al landscape has become. Meanwhile, countries such as Japan, the UAE, and Canada round out the top ten, underscoring that Al leadership is no longer limited to a single region but increasingly spread across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Finally,
A Snapshot of the Global Generational Shift
Recent data from the United Nations World Population Prospects 2024 reveals a significant shift in the world’s demographic landscape. The global population structure is now predominantly composed of younger generations, signaling a profound change in future economic and social dynamics. As older cohorts naturally diminish in size, the rising influence of those born in the digital age is becoming the defining characteristic of the 21st century.
The current demographic hierarchy is led by Generation Alpha, Generation Z, and Millennials (Gen Y). Generation Alpha, born between 2013 and 2024, is the largest group, totaling 2.0 billion people or 24.4% of the population. They are followed closely by Generation Z (born 1997–2012) at 1.9 billion (22.9%) and Millennials (born 1981–1996) at 1.7 billion (21.2%).
In contrast, the older demographic segments represent a shrinking portion of the global total. While Generation X and Baby Boomers still maintain a significant presence at 1.4 billion and 1.1 billion respectively, the Silent Generation and those older account for only 2.0% of the population. This structural reality underscores the increasing importance of catering to the values and needs of the three youngest generations who now dominate the global stage.
Today is A Happy Day and I Feel Very Accomplished :
1. 49er's Beat the Eagles
2. Order First Pinoy Dishes from Maymay Cravings, Downtown, WC
3. Ditas visited Me and help me renew my passport for coming Travel in May
4. Create DMV account so I can renew my expired Senior ID.
And Here are some Photos from Maymay Cravings, Beef Kare-kare and Sinigang
