Mindanaoan Irene, Author at Mindanaoan - Multi awarded CDO and New York Lifestyle Blog

Jan212026 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

President Marcos Jr. Witnesses Globe and Starlink Partnership Launch for Universal Connectivity

Globe Telecom, the number one mobile network operator in the Philippines, is the first to market Starlink’s Direct to Cell (DTC) satellite service in the country and Southeast Asia, and the second in Asia. Starting this year, the historic breakthrough service will allow Filipinos with standard LTE mobile phones to access mobile services such as essential data that offers video, voice and messaging through apps, and text messaging, wherever there is a view of the sky. This historic launch, as witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is set to transform connectivity in areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable or difficult to deploy, especially in an archipelagic country comprising over 7,600 islands. This landmark initiative reflects Globe’s continuing commitment to invest in ...

Jan162026 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Fun, Chill Educational Online Games For Kids And the Kids-At-Heart

Mindanaoan Update

Start of the year and you find yourself frazzled because life's been pretty wild lately? Between work deadlines, endless notifications, and just trying to keep up with everything, sometimes you just need a breather. I need one, too! Actually, I've realized that one of the best ways to decompress is by playing simple online educational and simulation games - the kind that don't require intense focus but still keep your mind engaged enough to forget about your worries even for a bit. Let me share a couple of games I've been loving that might help you unwind as well. Open Bar - Pour Drinks, Zone Out This one's super straightforward - Open Bar! You're a bartender, and your job is to pour drinks and clean up after customers. That's it. No complex storylines, no overwhelming mechanics - ju...

Jan52026 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Best pasalubong center at Laguindingan Airport Cagayan de Oro

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Fashion, Features, Flights, Mindanaoan Update

Islands Souvenirs is finally back in Northern Mindanao! Remember the makers of our fave “I CDO” shirts? They’re back and they’re offering even more exciting, feel-good finds! Islands Souvenirs is your best pasalubong center at Laguindingan Airport. Islands Souvenirs CDO just opened their newest branch at the 2nd Floor of Laguindingan Airport (pre-departure area), and it’s the perfect stop before your flight. If you need last-minute gifts, pasalubong or you want a customized souvenir to mark your memorable travels, this is the place. They have customizable tote bags, bag tags, mugs, and caps that you can personalize on the spot. They now have towels and virgin coconut oils - best for your beach getaways! And the best part? They now carry quick bites and local treats! You can grab ...

Dec152025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Oro Shawarma: A Foodie’s Delight in Cagayan de Oro

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Food, Mindanaoan Update

Shawarma, a beloved street food that has captured the hearts and palates of many, has its roots deeply embedded in Middle Eastern cuisine. The term "shawarma" is derived from the Arabic word "??????," which refers to the method of cooking meat on a vertical rotisserie. This technique dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was popularized as a way to prepare lamb, chicken, and beef. Over the years, shawarma has evolved, with various regions adding their unique twists to the dish. Oro Shawarma, in particular, stands out as a simple yet modern interpretation that pays homage to these rich traditions while infusing flavors that locals love. The result - not only is Oro Shawarma delicious, but it also offers health benefits, making it a nutritious choice for those looking for a quick bit...

Nov272025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Camella Lights the Country in a Christmas Celebration of Faith, Family, and Festivity

Mindanaoan Update

The glow of parols lit up Camella communities around the islands, as the Philippines’ most trusted and preferred homebuilder held its Christmas Tree Lighting Event and Homecoming Fair, a heartwarming celebration of Filipino homecoming and the lifelong dream of homeownership. Christmas lights came alive in a synchronized display of festivity, marking the official start of the holiday season. At the heart of every neighborhood stood a towering Christmas tree, surrounded by families, residents, homebuyers, and business partners, all gathered to witness a timeless tradition that has come to define the Camella legacy of connection and continuity. A celebration that illuminated the nation The evening opened with performances by children's choirs, their cheerful voices filling the air wi...

Nov142025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

“The Blueprint by Globe” Lights Up the Holidays with Purposeful Connectivity and Meaningful Connections

Mindanaoan Update

Globe marked the season of giving and togetherness with the second installment of The Blueprint by Globe, celebrating the year-end holidays at The Globe Tower, Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. With the theme “Lighting Up the Season with Purposeful Connectivity and Meaningful Connections,” the event showcased how Globe continues to shape the Filipino digital lifestyle, not just through innovation, but with intention. Purposeful Connectivity That Works for Everyone Globe isn't just about faster internet or better signals. It's about building technology that actually serves people's real needs, like the Globe API Ecosystem, for instance. It might sound technical, but what it really does is help businesses provide more secure, seamless experiences for their customers. Paired with Digi...

Nov132025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

GLOBE Telecom posts back-to-back sequential growth

Mindanaoan Update

Globe sustained its recovery in the third quarter, posting Php 41.5 billion in consolidated gross service revenues, up 3% quarter-on-quarter, its fastest sequential growth in 13 quarters. The increase was driven by stronger data demand across mobile, broadband, and enterprise segments. Key Financial Highlights: • Php 121.7 billion consolidated gross service revenues for 9M25• Php 22.0 billion EBITDA in Q3, maintaining a 52.8% margin• Php 17.7 billion NIAT, with •?15.5 billion core NIAT• Php 5.3 billion equity share from Mynt (GCash), contributing 25% of pre-tax income• Capex at Php 31.4 billion, down 23% YoY, as Globe advances toward positive free cash flow territory Interested to know more? You may access the filing via the PSE website: ?https://edge.pse.com.ph/openDiscVi...

Nov102025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Panagatan Restaurant SM City Uptown CDO branch moves to North Wing, introduces New Function Rooms

Announcements, Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Food, Mindanaoan Update, Restaurant, Reviews, Society

The restaurant that's been part of numerous families' stories for generations has opened a brand new branch at SM City Uptown CDO North Wing. From their branch inside the main mall, Panagatan Restaurant has moved to the North Wing and it's actually a strategic move especially since the brand new restaurant is way more spacious and it even has 3 function rooms! Located conveniently at the Ground Floor of SM City Uptown CDO North Wing, the new Panagatan Restaurant SM Uptown offers private function rooms that are ideal spaces for various occasions such as a long-awaited family reunion, a milestone birthday celebration, a graduation party, an anniversary dinner or even a corporate event. The Panagatan CDO function rooms are fully air-conditioned to ensure that you and your guests stay c...

Oct202025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Stressed? Here are two simulation games I highly recommend

Mindanaoan Update

The past few months have been absolutely stressful for me. From seemingly endless tasks to work deadlines to everyday digital noise, finding time to relax and just free my mind from all anxiety has actually become a necessity. This year started off pretty wild - I got involved in the national elections and also handled several local candidates. Nowadays, I'm busier with my businesses and I am planning to start another one! And that's why relaxing and freeing my mind (even for a few minutes) from all worries is something I value. For me, one surprisingly effective way to unwind and even learn something valuable is through online simulation games. Games like Cooking Mania and Coffee Shop are not just fun distractions; they offer meaningful mental breaks that reduce stress while subtly te...

Sep182025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mad Cafe CDO: Encanto-themed cafe Uptown Cagayan de Oro

Business, Cafe, Cagayan de Oro City, Restaurant, Reviews

If I'm not mistaken, Mad Cafe CDO, an Encanto-inspired family café nestled in the heart of Uptown Cagayan de Oro, has been operating for about a year. However, it was my first time to visit this Uptown CDO cafe a few days ago. Located along Masterson Avenue near Xavier Estates Phase 4 gate, Mad Cafe is a favorite gathering spot for families and food enthusiasts alike. For those unfamiliar, Encanto tells the heartwarming story of the Madrigals, a magical Colombian family where each member possesses unique gifts, except for protagonist Mirabel. The 2021 animated musical celebrates family bonds, self-acceptance, and the magic found in everyday love. Mad Cafe CDO aims to capture this enchanting Encanto atmosphere. The café features a kids' play area, making it the perfect spot for fami...

Aug282025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

“Konektadong Pinoy” law to connect more Filipinos to cheaper Internet – Senate President Chiz Escudero

Advocacy, Blogging, Government, Internet, Society, Technology

Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero hailed the enactment of the “Konektadong Pinoy” law, describing it as a giant step toward bridging the digital divide in the country due to poor connectivity, prohibitive cost, and absence of infrastructure, particularly in far-flung and underserved areas. By easing the entry of new players into the data transmission or internet service industry, the Senate President is confident that the cost of connectivity in the country will go down significantly as “there will be greater competition and more choices for consumers” under the measure identified as one of the priority bills of the administration. “The Philippines has one of the highest internet connectivity costs in the world considering the speeds it offers to consumers. But more t...

Aug222025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Neophyte Lambayong councilor launches rice assistance program

Advocacy, Government, Mindanaoan Update, Politics, Society, Sultan Kudarat

The death of a loved one not only brings immense grief to a family but also creates financial burdens and daily needs that must be addressed. During these difficult times, the last thing grieving families should worry about is where their next meal will come from. Recognizing this need, neophyte Councilor Kid Agduma of the Municipality of Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, launched a rice assistance program for bereaved families - a simple yet very meaningful initiative aimed at providing practical help especially to mourning families. The program is designed to be accessible and straightforward for families dealing with grief. Fast fact: Kid Agduma bagged the #1 spot out of all the councilors who ran in the 2025 elections. He garnered 56.36% of the total votes, and he's the only candidate...

Aug212025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Camella’s 48th Anniversary Brings Together Hope, Heritage, and Homeownership with ‘Haraya’

Consumer, Society

Camella transformed its thriving communities nationwide into celebrations of imagination, inspiration, and innovation with Haraya: A Legacy of Fulfilled Dreams, a two-week campaign that honored the 48-year journey of the most trusted and preferred name in Philippine real estate. Future-ready living The two-part Home Hacks and Techs webinar, presented in collaboration with Megahit Global Solution (MGS) Philippines, introduced practical home automation solutions. Discussions on ‘Security that Adapts to Every Age’ explored how smart locks can provide personalized, keyless access for family members while ensuring peace of mind. ‘Future-Proofing the Family Home’ emphasized how features such as remote access, mobile alerts, and guest permissions enhance security and long-term property valu...

Aug42025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Traveling to Bukidnon? Buy from Sumilao Bayongs

Advocacy, Bukidnon, Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Fashion, Mindanaoan Artists, Misamis Oriental, Society, Style

If you're heading to Bukidnon and you happen to pass by the Municipality of Sumilao, please support a really nice cause. Support the women of Sumilao, Bukidnon by purchasing these durable, versatile, vibrant and truly pretty Sumilao Bayongs! I traveled the CDO-Bukidnon route recently and saw these handwoven bags sold at the Sumilao Public Market (by the pay toilets). These bayong bags are crafted by women organized under the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) livelihood program and these products have provided the group vital source of income. Please do support them! I believe the prices of these pretty bayongs start at around Php 500+. There are also handpainted versions. You can also inquire and/or purchase online via their Facebook page. Hope you can help spread the word!

Jul12025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

The Elegance of the Exquisite: Vista Land Launches New Residential Developments in Mindanao

Mindanaoan Update

Vista Land, the Philippines' leading integrated property developer, continues its commitment to regional development and real estate expansion through a stunning spectacle of its newest residential developments in Pagadian City, Zamboanga City, and General Santos City. Titled Exquisite: Refining Modern Lifestyles in Mindanao, the event gathered Vista Land executives, employees, and business partners for an immersive presentation of culture and communities that embody the evolving achievements and aspirations of the Filipino way of life. Vista Land executives pose for a ceremonial toast celebrating the three newly launched residential developments in Pagadian City, Zamboanga City, and General Santos City. Hosted by the reigning Hiyas ng Pilipinas and Miss Tourism World Philippines...

Apr302025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Partido sa Bagong Pilipino: A New Vision, A Stronger Barangay

Announcements, Government, Politics

In the lead-up to the 2025 midterm elections, a new force has emerged in the partylist race - Partido sa Bagong Pilipino (PBP) - a movement that puts the Filipino barangay at the heart of national progress. With its bold vision and grassroots-centered platform, PBP is rallying communities across the country under its clarion call: “Barangay Panalo!” A Vision for Empowered Communities At the core of PBP’s advocacy is a belief that true change doesn’t start from the top—it starts from the ground up. The party envisions a Philippines where every barangay has access to clean potable water, reliable electricity, quality healthcare, and better infrastructure such as farm-to-market roads. “Barangay Panalo means that every Filipino—no matter how remote their community—should live with dig...

Apr262025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mercato Centrale, College of Saint Benilde Launch Micro-Certification Program to Upskill MSMEs in Food Sector

Announcements, Cafe, Cagayan de Oro City, Campus, Food

Mercato Centrale Group, the country’s premier food and lifestyle market, has partnered with De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) to roll out micro-certification courses aimed at strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the food industry. The program will offer short courses covering food business management, marketing strategies, financial literacy, and culinary innovation. Developed through the collaboration of Mercato Centrale’s entrepreneurship platform and CSB’s School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management (SHRIM), the courses aim to equip both aspiring and existing food entrepreneurs with the tools to build sustainable, growth-oriented businesses. The program is expected to launch in the coming months and will be open to h...

Apr52025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Idle PhilHealth funds tapped for ‘Bayanihan 3’ to cut debt, fuel economic recovery — Recto

Government

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto on Wednesday justified the government’s move to utilize idle funds from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and other state-run firms, describing it as a “fiscally responsible Bayanihan 3” aimed at easing the national debt burden and accelerating economic recovery without imposing new taxes or securing additional loans. Speaking before the Supreme Court during oral arguments held in this city, Recto framed the initiative as both practical and necessary as he underscored the scale of the economic challenges the country continues to face nearly four years after the COVID-19 pandemic triggered the worst postwar downturn. “We’re still recovering from the pandemic that gave us the hardest economic blow—a contraction of 9.5% in 2020—the lo...

Feb242025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Discover Stunning Vista Land Residential Developments in General Santos City

General Santos City, Mindanaoan Update, Society, SoSCksargen

South Cotabato nests at the lower half of SOCCSKSARGEN, home to the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City. Its first-class, highly urbanized city, General Santos, is the regional center for industry and commerce. Tourism is also a key economic activity in the locale, as its terrains offer spectacular panoramas and the prospect of incredible adventures. While General Santos exhibits steady progress, it also pays homage to tradition through arts, festivals, and food. GenSan, as it is affectionately called, counts its heritage and culture as keys to identity, worldview, and way of life. Vista Land is building an extraordinary township and ready-for-occupancy (RFO) house-and-lot communities where Mindanaoan homebuyers and investors ma...

Feb22025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Must-visit: Hanamaruken Ramen Cebu

Cebu City, Food, Restaurant, Reviews

From Osaka to Cebu! Hanamaruken Ramen is in the Queen City of the South! From Osaka, Japan to Cebu, this home of the famous melt-in-your-mouth soft bone pork rib ramen is spreading awesome joy and flavors! Went to Streetscape in Banilad, Cebu to experience their authentic Japanese dining experience. We had the Signature Happiness Ramen, the Arakawa Special and the ebi tempura. Sooo good! For me, the Arakawa Special had a sharper taste. It’s shoyu tonkotsu broth topped with kakuni, a quarter portion of slow-braised soft bone pork rib, negi and naruto. Meanwhile, the Happiness Signature Ramen was also good and was definitely true to its name! It’s shoyu tonkotsu broth topped with a half portion of slow-braised soft bone pork rib, negi and naruto. The ebi tempura was crispy and d...

Feb12025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Malatang Sichuan cuisine at Yang Hero IT Park Cebu

Cebu City, Food, Mindanaoan Update

Malatang for dinner is always a great idea Lami kaayo! My partner and I had a great time at Yang Hero, located along the Garden Row of Ayala Central Bloc, Cebu IT Park Yang Hero Cebu serves delicious Sichuan cuisine. My dinner companion and I had both the Chinese and BBQ buns to start, he had braised beef (it came with free soup also) and then we shared our malatang, which mostly had seafood, with basic broth. If you’re a fan of spicy food, choose the sichuan broth. Another option is the tomato-based one. Basically, you can choose from over 30 ingredients that you can place in your malatang! Aside from seafood, we also included veggies, tofu (yum!), scallops, seaweed and fungi (yup you read that right haha!) Service was OK. We had to wait for several minutes for our table to be re...

Jan292025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Pueblo de Oro Unlocks Golden Opportunities in Cagayan de Oro with New Residential Offerings

Mindanaoan Update

Known as the ‘City of Golden Friendship’, Cagayan de Oro continues its rise as a major player in regional and national development through its flourishing economy, multicultural heritage, and thriving master-planned communities. With its strategic location along the deepwater harbors of Macajalar Bay, the largest city of Northern Mindanao has earned its place as a commercial gateway, an innovation hub, and a model of sustainable urban growth. Economic prospects The economy of Cagayan de Oro is marked by diversity and resilience, with agro-industrial ventures, trade, and services forming the backbone of its progress. As the commercial and logistics center of Region X, the city plays a crucial role in the distribution of high-value agricultural products. These are supported by a modern...