Chinese Studies in Massive Open Online Courses

   Wayback, I took a free online course at Open2Study, and today I just finished another course, this time at Coursera which is a very popular platform online for learning free, and verified paid courses. Coursera has been around for quite sometime. There is also another popular MOOC website, and that is edX.

I am a Chinese culture and language enthusiast, and anything that has to do with Chinese studies has always piqued my interest. There aren't a lot of universities, and colleges here in my country that offers Chinese studies courses. Top universities here that offers Chinese studies is way too expensive. Same with universities abroad. So imagine my glee when I found out about different MOOC that offers Chinese studies, and language.

The first Chinese studies course that I took online was the Chinese Language and Culture Course at Open2Study, provided by South China University of Technology taught by Prof. Liu Cheng (Brady). This is a sort of introduction, and the basics of Chinese Language and Culture. This is a free course, and you need not pay, all you need is dedication.

In Coursera, I took a paid, and verified certificate course in Chinese Culture and Contemporary China. Coursera partnered with Nanjing University. The lecturers in the video were all from Nanjing University. Professors Cheng Aimin, Zhang Bin, Julius Vaitkevicius, Pan Wang, Ao Xuegang, Ding Fangfang and Sunmin. The video lectures here were 5 to 10 minutes long. There is also an optional discussion page. The courses here in Coursera are not that lengthy, and in-depth unlike the courses in edX, nevertheless the lessons are concise.

Why did I choose to take Chinese studies online courses? Well, mainly because it is my interest, and I will be more knowledgeable in a particular subject matter. It will also be a plus or an asset in my credentials. Also, I want to show that I am really passionate in my interest. As the Chinese say it 加油! ( jiayou)

Ang Piping Balalaika (Ba Jin) salin ni Joaquin Sy

   I recently purchased, "Ang Piping Balalaika," (I am unsure of the exact English translation of this title, 'pipi' means mute, and 'balalaika' is a Russian musical instrument) this is another translation by Chinese studies scholar, and multi-awarded Chinese-Filipino translator Joaquin Sy. This book is not available in major bookstores. I got my copies from a specialty bookstore in Manila, called Solidaridad. I heard it was a store owned by Filipino writer F. Sionil Jose, National Artist for Literature awardee. This book is priced at 300 Philippine Pesos, and published by Pambansang Komisyon Para sa Kultura at Sining. The book is soft-bound, and the opening page has some info about the writer, and also about the translator of the book. The book contents was written in Chinese (traditional characters), and Filipino. It has 8 short stories including the main story which was the title of the book.

This is a collection of stories written by Li Yaotang also known as Ba Jin. I have no clue who Ba Jin was. According to someone I know who is a Filipino-Chinese, and is a wide-reader, Ba Jin is one of the famous authors that influenced the May 4th Movement back especially his famous novel "Family". According to him it's a good book that laments about the staunch conservatism of Chinese society way back during the Republican era.

He further added that the May 4th movement in a nutshell was a student uprising that rebelled against the continued occupation of the colonial powers of certain areas in China under the terms of the Treaty of Versailles after World War I. It was through the movement that the activist spirits of future Chinese leaders such as Mao Zedong, Liu Shaoqi and Zhou Enlai were kindled.

I have already read the first story in the book. "Ang Piping Balalaika." I was right the Balalaika mentioned is a musical instrument from Russia. At first, I thought it was an archaic Filipino word. The first story was a sad story, about memories, prison/prisoners, Russia, and a musical instrument. This collection of short stories is an easy-read, simple but the stories will remain in you. It will compel you to think, and ponder upon the stories. It will also open your eyes to the realties of the world...and yes! Oftentimes, its a harsh reality.

This is another gem of a book. Kudos to Mr. Joaquin Sy for translating the classic works of Ba Jin. Because of his translation we are able to enjoy a classic Chinese work. I recommend this book for every book lovers, and Chinese literary, and culture enthusiast. 

Happy Ghost 5 (Magic to Win 5) 开心鬼5上错身

  I have not posted in my blog for awhile now. Today, I'm off from work so I had time to write. I recently purchased this movie online, and my order arrived 2-3 weeks ago ( I forgot the exact date). I had a difficult time in finding a copy of this movie. I suddenly wanted to have a copy because Kris Aquino, Philippines Queen of all Media is making waves again, and for the second time in the international scene. She has landed a role in Kevin Kwan's book turned into a movie, Crazy Rich Asian, as Princess Intan. Unknown to some, this was not her first international movie. The first one was this movie, Happy Ghost 5 which she co-starred together with a very popular comedian actor at that time, Raymond Wong.

I really liked the movie when I first saw it, I was still a teenager at that time. (SPOILERS AHEAD) The movie is about Kathy, who owns a dog named Magic. Magic loves his master very much. But Kathy has a playboy boyfriend, and Magic wants Kathy to learn the truth about her boyfriend. Magic was granted a wish by the Happy Ghost, to be human for a few days. So its up to you viewers to find out more about the story. I recently bought a dog, her name is Happie. As a dog owner, and if you love dogs this movie is for you. Dogs love unconditionally, and they are really faithful to their master. Coincidentally, in the Chinese calendar 2018 is the Year of the Dog. Me, owning a dog, and buying this movie was indeed a great-timing!

It is also refreshing to see the young, and lovely Kris Aquino. You will definitely mistake her for a Chinese actress. Did you know that she has Chinese ancestry? Their roots can be traced back in the (Xu) Co clan in Hongjian village, Fujian province China.

This movie is family friendly. You can watch this with your loved-ones. Take the time to have a quality moment with your loved ones.

The Ties That Bind by: Teresita Ang-See (Mini-book review)

   Last week my order of the mini-book, "The Ties That Bind" (The Saga of the Sultan of Sulu in China). This is the 2nd edition, written by well-known, and respected Filipino-Chinese writer, and academian. Known in the Philippine media press, as an anti-crime crusader. She is also also one of the founders (along with her late husband Prof.Chinben See) of Kaisa Para sa Kaunlaran, and Kaisa Heritage Center.

From tulay.ph: 

"The Ties that Bind – the Saga of the Sultan of Sulu in China (Kaisa Para Sa Kaunlaran, 2017, 109 pp.) uses references and resources from China and the Philippines – including valuable photographs – to document the historic visit of the Sultan of Sulu to pay tribute to the imperial court of Ming Emperor Yong Le in 1417. The booklet is published in commemoration of this most significant event which highlights the enduring friendship between the Philippines and China."

You can order online, and have it shipped to your place. Just follow the instructions of their staff. I also contacted them through their Facebook account, and Ms. Meah See, director now of Kaisa, and the daughter of the author was really accomodating. You can finish the book in one-sitting. The book is printed in glossy pages, and the photos are rich, with colorful pictures. As a supporter of the Philippines and China's positive and harmonious relationship,  and as a member of the Philippines - China friendship club. This mini-booklet is full of interesting facts, and details about the long-standing relationship, and friendship of the two countries. Did you know that the Sultan Padaka has living descendants up to now? They have also visited the Philippines.

The story of the Sultan of Sulu, and the Emperor of China was made into a movie wayback. The title was 'Hari sa hari, Lahi sa lahi,' the international English title was 'King and Emperor.'

If you are a Chinese culture enthusiast like me, or if you are interested in culture and history, you should definitely grab a copy of this book. I got my 2 copies for P140.00, plus additional shipping fee. I also requested for the book to be signed by the author. I have not met the author personally, but I'm looking forward for a chance in the near future.

Or you can visit Kaisa, located in Intramuros, Manila. They have a gift shop there when I visited them wayback. They sell t-shirts, and various educational books about Filipino-Chinese culture and history. You should also check out their museum also located in the same building. It is a museum of the Chinese in the Philippine life. It is a definitely must-see. I really enjoyed touring the museum before.

(Fast forward to year 2026, I finally met Ma'am Teresita Ang-See through my new doctor who is her sister.)

For orders and inquiries: 
You can contact them through their facebook page Kaisa Para sa Kaunlaran or you may email them at info@kaisa.org.ph 

Vivian 周慧敏 'Leaving A Depressing Habit' Album Review

   My blog post would not be complete if I have not included this album review of mine about Vivian Chow's album,  离开忧郁的习惯 Li Kai You Yu De Xi Guan. This album was really memorable for me because this was the first Chinese (Mandarin) album that I got. Wayback, I asked my late aunt to buy any Chinese cassette tape for me. They always go in Chinatown before to buy pearl cream. This album was recommended to her by the seller. Sadly, I lost the cassette tape, in the previous language school that I have worked before. But I have never forgotten all the music in that album. Today, as I am typing this blog post, it is cloudy, and raining a bit. I remember I often listen to this album before when the weather is like this. I am glad that I have found this album for sale online. It is pre-owned. But I still bought it. I already ripped the music from my pc at work. So my playlist there is JJ Lin, and Vivian Chow's music. The album is still in good condition, it comes with a lyrics photo book.

There are 10 tracks in the album. I'll just list there English titles here. Track 1 Leaving A Depressing Habit, Track 2 I've Never Been to Me (English Version), Track 3 Look at The Sea, Track 4  Look at My Eyes For Awhile, Track 5 Accompany You By Your Side, Track 6 Dancing in the Night, Track 7 Feeling Touched, Track 8 Cannot See Clearly Which One is the Real Me, Track 9 Leave Some Love Until Tomorrow to Love Me, Track 10 Oh! Do Not Talk. I highlighted all of my favorite tracks (songs) in the album. Why I like Vivian Chow? First because she's very pretty, angelic beauty. She's like a Chinese angel to me. I also like her voice which is really sweet to listen too! A fact for you to know, she's a radio dj before! So that's maybe when speaks or sings, she's nice to listen to! I remember during my college days, I would surf the net, and just look at her photos online. I dreamed of having one of her cd's. It has happened, thanks to the Chinese friends that I have met online. We lost touch, but I will never forget you. Hope you are reading this! Today, you can see her photos online, it seems she has not aged at all. I also have her Best Hits, Vivian Chow Gold album, a gift from my online friend - Ms.Yu, a Vivian Chow 1994 'Touch' photo book, also a gift from Mr. Yeung, another online friend of mine, wayback and a pirated karaoke cd that I bought in Chinatown before. Below is her classic music video, 'Leaving a Depressing Habit.' The meaning of the song, is moving on because we are done with being sad, and crying for the person we have loved before. We are leaving that stage. It is a positive song for me. Life goes on, so we must move on, and face bravely another tomorrow. The song has kinda a relaxing feel, same with the music video. Vivian, is shown here as happy, and a carefree person, that is free from worries.

Our Times 我的少女时代 (Wo De Shao Nu Shi Dai) Movie Review

   Two weeks ago, I had the chance to watch a Taiwanese movie, 'Our Times.' The movie is quite similar to the Chinese drama, 'A Love So Beautiful', and a mix of the Thai movie, 'Crazy Little Thing Called Love.' About high school life. I like this movie over another Taiwanese that I've watched before, entitled 'You Are the Apple of My Eye.' (Because the ending is not that good for me. But its closest to reality, life doesn't always have a happy ending) I really don't have any fond memories during high school because I went to an all girls Catholic school. The movie is about Joe Chen, a geeky looking career woman, with a monotonous life. Her name in the movie in Chinese means sincere of heart. The same thing goes with her career life, and she was gossiped about her younger workmates. Then after another hectic and boring day, she decides to listen to her old player, and played a song of Andy Lau. Memories of her highschool days flashed back. The movie has a nice OST sung by Hebe Tian, entitled, 'A Little Happiness.' Anyway, I'm a bit jealous of Hebe because JJ Lin likes her. Well that's just the way, when you like someone, you get jealous when you find out when they like somebody else.

During her highschool days she has a crush with her classmate. But then because of a chain letter she made, she crossed paths with the school bully who treated her as a personal slave, at the mercy of his beck and call. But in the end they came to know each other's characters, and they became friends. So I will not spoil the ending for you, but I really want to mention, it has a special guest appearance of the original F4 star, Jerry Yan who played the lead role of Dao Ming Si in another popular Taiwan drama wayback, Meteor Garden. The movie was really good, it is just a light movie, and really heartwarming. I will definitely recommend this movie for you to watch. I give it, two thumbs up. Below is the music video. The meaning of the song is really fit for the movie. Happy watching and listening!

JJ Lin Message in A Bottle and Music Knight Hits Deluxe Collection

  Today, I got the latest cd of JJ Lin that I have purchased online. Last month, I ordered 2 cd's of JJ Lin. I really did spend a lot buying JJ Lin's cd since they are not available in my country. I bought the cd's from online sellers abroad. They are from Malaysia, and Taiwan.

The first cd that has arrived, that was delivered on my doorstep is JJ Lin's Music Knight Hits Deluxe collection. It is packaged neatly in a box. This album has 3 cd's and a lyrics booklet. The 3 cd's are compilation of JJ Lin's songs from his his various album. This cd came from Malaysia.

The next cd that I bought was JJ Lin's 'Message in Bottle' (outer edition). The packaging was really nice. When you open the box, you will see a small bottle with a letter inside, written on it is a message that JJ wrote. The bottle is somewhat deformed. I have learned that the bottle was patterned after JJ Lin's grasp. (the way he's holding a bottle). So there's really an artistic touch to it. The cd comes with a lyric book, and a 7-11 small ad-paper of JJ Lin, about his message in a bottle album. The inner edition has no bottle included. This album by the way is a bit hard to find now. I am fortunate that I have found a seller from Taiwan who carries this outer edition cd.

I came to like JJ Lin above all Chinese artist, because he's really cute, especially when he smiles, and his dimples shows. He is a talented musician, and composer. Lastly, we share the same faith. I like his songs because they tell a story, and when he sings its really full of emotion. I came to know JJ Lin's music through a friend, who shared to me a video of JJ Lin and Charlene Choi of the Twins. The song is called, Little Dimples.(小酒窝). Other favorites of mine are Ta Shuo 她说,  Dou Jiang You Tiao 豆浆油条. etc. JJ Lin hails from Singapore, he is known as Wayne Lim by his closest friends and loved ones. If you haven't heard his music, please try to listen to it. Happy listening!

(I'm a volunteer administrator to a local JJ Lin fan page in facebook: JJ Lin 林俊傑Philippines) Thanks to Kara Sky - Karyl Sora Parohinog for making me a co-admin. in her blog. This blog was created 4 years ago. To all JJ Lin's fans in the Philippines, please do visit and like the page.