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

Apr302025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

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

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...

Dec252024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

CDO barangay captain Kikang Uy grants kids’ wishes to watch Euro Xtreme Circus

Blogging, Cagayan de Oro City, Commentary, Entertainment, Events, Features, Government, Mindanaoan Update, Society

For several weeks, Cagayan de Oro was alive with joy and excitement as world-class Euro Xtreme Circus captivated audiences with thrilling stunts and breathtaking acts from Europe and America. Euro Xtreme Circus CDO ran until December 1, 2024, and the world-class show promised a memorable experience for everyone. Naturally, it was a lot of children's wish to watch the circus live. Recently, 40 preschoolers from Barangay Carmen enjoyed this spectacle, thanks to the generosity of Barangay Carmen Captain Joaquin “Kikang” Uy. Accompanied by their parents and teacher, Ms. Chona, the children experienced awe-inspiring acrobatics, thrilling stunts, and vibrant performances— all of them for the very first time. Kap. Kikang’s thoughtful gesture highlights his dedication to enriching the lives ...

Dec252024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

DepEd, BDO Network Bank help teachers reach financial goals

Advocacy, Campus, Society, Technology

Public school teachers stand to benefit from the continued support from the Department of Education (DepEd) and BDO Network Bank (BDONB), particularly in equipping them with financial knowledge to help them achieve their personal goals. For many teachers, gaining financial literacy helps them practice financial discipline and make informed decisions on budgeting, saving, and debt management. On the importance of practical budgeting in particular, knowing where their money goes every month has taken so much stress off teachers’ shoulders already loaded with the daily grind of teaching. This knowledge assists in avoiding debt traps as they are able to manage and prioritize their expenses better. Saving for future goals also gives teachers tools to start building funds for their imminent n...

Nov112024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Living high and living it up in Altafina by Vista Land

Mindanaoan Update

South Cotabato: Here, bounty and beauty come together Perched majestically on the coastline that hugs Sarangani Bay, General Santos City, the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, exudes a more dynamic and progressive vibe. With an economy anchored primarily on the agriculture and fishing industries, GenSan, as it is affectionately called, also covers much ground in tourism. The land formerly known as Dadiangas, and now named for General Paulino Santos, who brought over Christians from Luzon and the Visayas to settle in the area, boasts the largest airport in Mindanao as well as the Makar Wharf, one of the country's most modern international seaports. The city also earned itself the nickname Boom City of the South, owing to its vast exports and the influx of manufacturing and business pro...

Nov52024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

The circus is here! EuroXtreme Circus brings world-class entertainment to Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Entertainment, Events, Features, Mindanaoan Update, Society

I watched them first in Davao City during the Kadayawan season and now it's your turn, Cagayan de Oro! For the first time since 1993 when its precursor, the Royal London Circus was here, the EuroXtreme Circus is bringing its world-class spectacle to Paseo del Rio, Rodelsa Circle, Barangay Nazareth. Known for thrilling audiences across Davao, General Santos, and Tagum, the EuroXtreme Circus is ready to enchant CDO with extraordinary performances under its unique Red & White BIG TOP—an air-conditioned tent that seats 2,000 people, the only one of its kind in the Philippines. A Lineup of Unmissable International Acts Featuring performers from Europe and Latin America, the EuroXtreme Circus brings an exciting variety of acts that promise to leave audiences spellbound: Wheel of Su...

Oct302024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Vista Land Unveils Sandera, The Newest Master Planned Development in Davao

Consumer, Corporate, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Features, Mindanaoan Update

Vista Land continues to expand its footprint in the southern regions of the Philippines with a strategic focus on master planned developments that anticipate the evolving aspirations of its residents. Through its collection called Vista Estates, the company is creating unique, superior, and sustainable lifescapes that combine a premium quality of life with long-term real estate investment opportunities. Each development, set within premier destinations across the country, showcases themed residential enclaves designed to reflect the character of the estate, offering a unique and engaging living experience. Davao City: A Gateway to the dynamic Mindanao landscape Positioned at the center of the Asia-Pacific Rim, Davao City serves as a vital link between the Eastern and Western hemisphe...

Oct302024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Philippines pride, Jan Francis Alinsonorin, shines at Karaoke World Championships 2024 World Finals in Finland

Mindanaoan Update

Upcoming Filipino singing sensation Jan Francis Alinsonorin brought pride to the Philippines as he clinched a Top 11 finish at the prestigious Karaoke World Championships (KWC) World Finals held in Logomo Turku, Finland, from October 7 to 12, 2024. The Karaoke World Championships has long been a prestigious platform for discovering raw talent, and the 2024 edition in Turku was no exception. Participants from different cultures and nations gathered not only to compete but also to show their amazing talents to the world and to give the audience an unforgettable experience. Each performance reflected the diversity and uniqueness of each country, turning the stage into a vibrant melting pot of global talent. The week-long event kicked off with a Parade and Welcome Party on October 7...

Sep262024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Gabay Guro Celebrates Teachers with Back-to-Back Grand Tribute Events

Mindanaoan Update

Honoring its commitment to continuously uplift the lives of Filipino teachers as they mold the Filipino youth for excellence in the global arena, Gabay Guro will hold a back-to-back Teachers’ Tribute events for this year’s celebration of National Teachers’ Month and World Teachers Day. In cooperation with the Department of Education (DepEd) and with the generous support of steadfast partners – Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), PLDT Inc. (PLDT), and mWell through Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF) and PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) – Gabay Guro will stage its annual Grand Gathering on September 29, 2024, Sunday, at the Meralco Theater in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. With the theme “Teachers Inspiring Change, Building the Country’s Future,” the Grand Gathering will fea...

Sep192024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Invest in a condo in Caraga: Soleia by Vista Manors, a Frontrunner

Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Caraga, Features, Mindanaoan Update

Sitting in the region of spirits folk, the vast lands of Butuan City in Agusan del Norte are some of the oldest settlements in the Philippines, with history, culture, and arts tracing back to the fourth century. A first-class, highly urbanized city in Region Xll that evolved from an ancient trading site, Butuan stretches across the Agusan River, the widest, deepest, and longest navigable river in Mindanao. The city is rife with archeological finds on display at the Butuan Regional Museum, including stoneware, metal crafts, wood crafts, pottery, gold smithing, burial coffins, and other archeological treasures pointing to Butuan's prehistoric existence and rich cultural heritage. Caraga, where Butuan City is located, comes from Kalagan, the original language of the peop...

Sep132024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Must-try in Cagayan de Oro: Steak Paraiso

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

My friends Miki, Mike, Vic and I had an awesome steak dinner in Cagayan de Oro just recently. It was to welcome Vic home as he has been living in the UK with his family for several years now. We went to Steak Paraiso, located in Canitoan, Cagayan de Oro. I met the owner of this popular steakhouse during the pandemic, when he still ran a wagyu place in Malaybalay City. At the time, I was with my Bukidnon-based friends including Roger, an Australian friend of mine, who ended up praising the owner because we were served top quality Kitayama Wagyu and other meats. Mind you, Australians know their roast beef and steaks so for Roger to only have compliments is a big deal. Anyway, because I had a great experience then, I knew Miki, Mike and Vic would also love it at Steak Paraiso CDO. I was right...

Aug282024 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Helping Mindanao electric cooperatives navigate social media, address online bashing and crisis and foster community engagement

Advocacy, BIMP-EAGA, Blogging, Consumer, Corporate, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Internet, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

In Mindanao, blackouts occur, on average, no less than 10 times per month. More often than not, these blackouts also last for a very long time - sometimes, for hours on end! Needless to say, this is extremely exasperating because not only are households affected but businesses as well. Customers get really irate and the tendency is that they turn to social media and express their anger and disappointment towards the Mindanao electric cooperatives that are expected to provide reliable power to the communities. People post not only complaints online but memes, harsh words and even threats! Electric cooperatives or ECs, on the other hand, fully acknowledge the fact that they need to learn how to address the crisis situations fast. They understand that in this age of social media, they sho...

Aug272024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Avoiding Galvanic Corrosion in Mixed Metal Fasteners

Mindanaoan Update

When you’re dealing with fasteners, the last thing you want is a hidden enemy causing havoc behind the scenes. Galvanic corrosion is that sneaky troublemaker, especially when you mix different metals. You might think of nuts and bolts as straightforward components, but there’s more going on beneath the surface than you might realize. Understanding Galvanic Corrosion Imagine you’ve just replaced some old, rusted fasteners with shiny new ones. You’re feeling pretty good about your handiwork, but in a few months, you notice something disturbing: the new fasteners are corroding faster than you'd expect. What’s happening here? This is the sneaky work of galvanic corrosion. Galvanic corrosion occurs when two different metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, such as wate...

Aug162024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

This Filipina is fake, but her stories are real

Advocacy, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

Huwag na nating pagusapan ‘yan. Filipinos have a reputation for sweeping everything under a rug. Call it moral shame, or call it fear, the norm dictates bottling up and carrying on—no matter what the situation. The consequences of such an attitude is staggering. It is not surprising that according to a 2022 Philippine National Survey, roughly 17.5% of women aged 15-49 has experienced violence at the hands of their current or most recent spouses or partners. In a society based on faith and borne of strict societal mores, victims find silence and anonymity to be the only recourse. Fear, normalized violence at home, and victim blaming stop women from talking about their abuse and allow their experience to go unreported. So, how can we act on something that does not exist? Yes, stories c...

Jul262024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Taiwan at the Forefront of Green Economy

Mindanaoan Update

Taiwan is one of the global leaders in innovation and technological advancement, highlighted by its dominance in the semiconductor industry, supplying many giant technology brands, or a robust 68% market share. However, it is not lost on the Taiwan government the importance of protecting Mother Nature amid blazing-speed technological progress. Taiwan is considered a long-standing champion in protecting the environment through various collective and collaborative initiatives within Taiwan- based companies, with its many partners around the world. On June 19, 2024, Taiwan’s leading foreign trade officials, particularly the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA) and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), launched the "Go Green with Taiwan" movement, a global initi...

Jul102024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

GrabCar Officially Launched in Iligan City, Offers Safe, Reliable, and Convenient Rides

Mindanaoan Update

Grab Philippines officially introduces its digital ride-hailing services in Iligan City with the launch of GrabCar – Grab’s flagship mobility solution. GrabCar’s launch revolutionizes the way Iliganons commute, offering them an alternative tech-driven transportation option that is safe, reliable, and convenient. GrabCar now seamlessly connects passengers to and from Laguindingan Airport and extends its coverage through comprehensive and strategic zones within Iligan City. The serviceable area covers northward to Dalipuga, Kiwalan, Acmac; southward to Buruun, Fuentes, Camague; eastward to Suarez, Tipanoy, Tubod; and westward to Poblacion, Tambaca, Hinaplanon. The recent launch is also an expression of Grab's unwavering dedication to being Iligan City's leading partner in its journey t...

Jun252024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

GrabTaxi launched in General Santos City

Announcements, General Santos City, Mindanaoan Update, News, Society, SoSCksargen, Technology

Grab Philippines introduces its digital mobility solutions in General Santos City with the official launch of GrabTaxi last June 24, 2024. The leading superapp supports and uplifts the taxi sector in General Santos City by enhancing safety, reliability, and fare transparency for passengers, championing an elevated commuting experience for the citizens of GenSan. Passengers from the north of Nopol and the eastern portion of Buayan, extending all the way down to Tambler, can now effortlessly book a GrabTaxi ride through the Grab app. “Grab Philippines is proud to partner with the City of General Santos in introducing a digital and more efficient means of hailing a taxi for both locals and tourists,” CJ Lacsican, Grab Philippines Head of Cities Operations, said during the joint anno...