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

Mar92015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Malaybalay Bukidnon 2015 Charter Day schedule of activities

Bukidnon, Entertainment, Events, Festivals, Government, Malaybalay City, Mindanaoan Update, News, Tourism

Hi, everyone! I will be traveling regularly to Malaybalay City, Bukidnon in the next two weeks to cover the city's 17th Charter Day celebration. Malaybalay is the Province of Bukidnon's capital :) With the theme "Commitment and Integrity in Service," the Malaybalay City Charter Day Celebration will start tomorrow, March 9, 2015 although technically the charter day will really be on March 22. A lot of activities have been scheduled. FREE admission to all of the LGU-sponsored events. If you also want to participate in any of the activities, sign up for free at the city hall. For sports-related events, go to the Grandstand in Sumpong. If you're also planning to visit Malaybalay, please feel free to leave a comment and I'll be happy to guide you. I also have a banner below for recommende...

Mar42015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Tagging Along With The New Rivermaya

Entertainment, Events, Features, Manila, Mindanaoan Update, Music, Personalities, Photos, Society

Spent some time with the new Rivermaya during my most recent Manila trip. In case you still can't tell by now, I am a huge supporter of this premier Filipino rock band, considered to this day as one of the most successful and critically acclaimed bands in the Philippines. I always make it a point to attend their gigs not only because I'm a fan of their music but more importantly, because they're really cool guys to hang out with :) Just look at my Cebu Oktoberfest with Rivermaya photos and you'll most definitely agree! The photos here were taken during the Rivermaya Live at Adamson University and Energy FM gigs - both held in one day. Truth be told, I almost couldn't attend. Both gigs were held in the heart of Manila and I figured it might be difficult to commute. Luckily, Raymond, the ...

Feb282015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

At Tim Ho Wan Manila Michelin Star Restaurant

Business, Consumer, Food, Manila, Reviews

So I've finally visited TIM HO WAN Manila! I've been seeing a lot of photos of Tim Ho Wan's Manila restaurants plus their uber popular baked buns with pork BBQ (char siu) filling. At bilang fan na fan ako ng dim sum, I knew I just had to include Tim Ho Wan in my must-visit list next time I'm in Manila. Tim Ho Wan, which originated in Mong Kok, Hong Kong, is recognized as HK's most famous Michelin star restaurant. Actually, Tim Ho Wan is the world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant! And you know how it is if a restaurant is awarded a Michelin star. It means you simply have to visit. The Tim Ho Wan Manila franchise, a result of a partnership between Felix Ang of Cats Motors and Ricky Dee of Mesa and Todd English Food Hall, is less than a year old but based on a lot of posts and pho...

Feb262015 by Mindanaoan Irene4 Comments

At the Senator Chiz Escudero – Heart Evangelista wedding

Arts, Beauty, Entertainment, Events, Fashion, Features, Manila, Media, Mindanaoan Update, News, Personalities, Politics, Society, Style, Weddings

I attended the Senator Chiz Escudero and Heart Evangelista wedding a few days ago. I have known Senator Chiz ever since he was still a congressman representing Sorsogon (yep, a very long time) so I was really thrilled to know that I was to witness this special, joyous occasion of his life. I know a lot of other media outlets have discussed the nitty gritty details of the Escudero-Ongpauco wedding (Heart’s real name is Love Marie Ongpauco) so I will just share a few thoughts and observations. The event saw lots of notable personalities - from top business leaders to government officials to celebrities, the food and the free flowing drinks were exquisite, venue was breathtaking (the candelabras adorned with white orchids, hydrangeas and snapdragons were absolutely beautiful), the u...

Feb252015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Why You Should Join Amway Nutrilite Health Run 2015 CDO

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Events, Northern Mindanao, Sports

The Amway Nutrilite Health Run 2015 is one of the most awaited fun runs this year. The Manila leg happened a few days ago. Next stop - CDO! Definitely good news for avid runners in Northern Mindanao. The Nutrilite Health Run 2015 CDO event will be held on March 15, 2015 (Sunday) at the Amway Distribution Center along Velez Street. Race categories: 3K, 5K and 8K. Interested to join? Here are a few really good reasons why you should join the Nutrilite Health Run CDO Leg 2015: 1. Registration fee for all categories is a very affordable flat rate of Php 300.00 only! 2. Your registration fee comes with a cool, branded running shirt, race bib with bag tag, finishers kit, Amway expo access stubs and a raffle stub. The access stubs mean FREEBIES like a sling bag, a box of facial tissu...

Feb252015 by Mindanaoan Irene8 Comments

TAPS restaurant Davao has a warning for table hoggers

Business, Controversial, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Food

TAPS, a famous local restaurant in Davao City, Philippines best known for their silog meals and is open 24/7, has a warning especially for table hoggers. A table hogger is a person who either spreads his work or bags and other stuff across a table (and therefore discourages other customers to use or share the table) or a person who orders one item (usually the cheapest on the menu even!) and stays at a table practically for several hours! I'm sure everyone has spotted a table hogger at one time or another. I guess TAPS Davao gets a lot of these table hoggers since they're open 24/7. However, the management has apparently decided that enough is enough! Here's a warning posted inside their restaurant: * Photo courtesy of Arvy Francisco Vallejos The text is written in Bisaya but ...

Feb222015 by Mindanaoan Irene4 Comments

I Am Again A Newspaper Columnist

Announcements, Beauty, BIMP-EAGA, Bisaya, Blogging, Entertainment, Events, Features, Headline, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Style, Tourism, Travel

Very, very thrilled to share that I am (again) a newspaper columnist! Starting February 20, 2015, I will be one of the columnists at Gold Star Daily, Mindanao's largest newspaper. I have named my column "Mindanaoan Meets World" as I plan to write about lifestyle, music, a little bit of politics and showbiz and travel not only within the Philippines but around the world, too! My first stint as newspaper correspondent, columnist and part-time editor started way, way back. Like eons of light years ago haha! But life happened, I took a career detour and eventually, was already happy and contented to just work with the traditional media practitioners instead :) With this new development, though, I guess this is not only trying my hand again at writing for a daily newspaper but also my way of...

Feb142015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

How To Pay iTunes And App Store With SMART Load

Mindanaoan Update, Technology

It's now possible for all Smart Telecoms users to pay for iTunes, games, apps, music, magazines, books and movies on their Apple devices using their prepaid load or charged on top of their monthly postpaid bill. Dubbed “Pay-With-Mobile,” the new service eliminates the need for a credit card to get paid content and make in-app purchases through the App Store and iTunes. The service will begin on February 16, with full availability by February 18, 2015. According to SMART, the "Pay With Mobile" service works by giving subscribers the ability to sign up for a Pay-With-Mobile number which they can use exclusively with their iTunes accounts. All app downloads, in-app purchases, and digital content bought using Pay-With-Mobile will be deducted from users’ prepaid load, or charged on top of...

Feb112015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

PHOTOS: Vice Ganda Joins Kaamulan Bukidnon celebration

Bukidnon, Entertainment, Events, Festivals, Kaamulan Festival, Mindanaoan Update, Photos

Took these photos of Vice Ganda during the 2014 Kaamulan Festival slash 100th Founding Anniversary of Bukidnon. Just like the print on Vice Ganda's shirt, "Sorry I'm bad" because I only shared these now :D Anyway, Vice performed right after Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla (KathNiel loveteam). I also have photos of the KathNiel loveteam HERE. The show happened last September 1, 2014 at the Capitol Grounds, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. Aside from Vice Ganda, Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo, host and club owner Tim Yap was also there. I was granted VIP access so was able to take these shots. Thank you to Tim, Direk Javi and to Senator Migs Zubiri! * Used my trusty Nikon D40 DSLR with 18-200mm lens. Yes, I know, I need a new cam! ...

Feb82015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Insadong Seoul

Culture, Features, Food, Korea, Mindanaoan Update, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Insadong was one of my favorite places during our Seoul, South Korea trip. Also known as Seoul's culture street, Insadong has so many shops selling traditional Korean goods, teas, candies, street food, wooden cooking utensils, crafts, staple food like bottled kimchi and roasted nori sheets (yum!) and souvenirs such as hanbok and hanji. Although there's a main street in Insadong (no vehicles allowed here), don't hesitate to explore the inner streets. There are small but nice tea houses and restaurants that have "English OK" signs (meaning their servers can speak English :) ) along alleyways. Insadong is a safe place to "get lost in." Just go back to the main street and you'll be fine ;) How to get to Insadong: My brother and I took the subway. We rode Seoul Subway Line 3 then took ...

Feb32015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Breathtaking Gyeongbukgung Palace Seoul

Arts, Culture, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Built in 1395, the Gyeongbukgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea used to be the seat of power. Also known as Gyeongbok Palace, this palace was made during the Joseon Dynasty and is perhaps the most popular among the 5 palaces in Seoul. Just like what happened when we visited Changdeokgung Palace, we didn't have to pay for the entrance fee. It was Chuseok Festival time (autumn harvest holiday, Seoul's biggest holiday) and all entrance fees to palaces were waived. Spotted these little girls in their hanboks. This is the Keunjeong-jeon. This used to be the royal throne hall and as such, top officials then conducted state affairs here. This is Korea’s largest surviving wooden structure. Inside the Keunjeong-jeon We also caught the changing of the...

Feb32015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Changdeokgung Palace

Arts, Culture, Features, Festivals, Fiesta, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Photos, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Changdeokgung Palace, a 600-year old UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the very first palace we visited in Seoul, South Korea. Changdeokgung Palace is one of the "Five Grand Palaces" built by the Joseon Dynasty kings. Located at Jongno-gu district, this is a beautiful palace complex to roam around in and take photos of. We picked a good day to visit this Seoul palace. It was Chuseok Festival, Seoul's biggest festival, and entrance fees to all palaces were waived. This is the Injeongjeon (Main Hall) These seemingly stone markers were placed so that officials knew where to stand. The premises are very well-kept and well-maintained, as you can see in the photos. I can already imagine how pretty this area would be during fall or...

Feb22015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Scenes in vibrant Hongdae Seoul

Fashion, Features, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Photos, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

Hongdae is a busy and very vibrant area in Seoul, South Korea. Known for its numerous cafes, clubs and shops, Hongdae is undoubtedly one of Seoul's must-visit areas especially if you like to immerse yourself in Korean urban culture, music, fashion and arts. Hongdae is actually the Korean abbreviation of Hongik University (Hong-ik Dae-hak-kyo), which is best known for its Fine Arts and Design programs. When in Hongdae, you can't miss the Hongik University rectangular arch. I consider Hongdae as one of those places that you simply can't stop taking photographs of. There's just so much to get inspiration from, so much to see, so much to hear and so many things you want to try! And, if you're curious or interested about anything Korea, you will enjoy Hongdae. Th...

Feb22015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Hello Kitty Cafe and Cats Living Cat Cafe Hongdae

Features, Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Tourism, Travel

The first shopping district we went to in Seoul, Korea was Hongdae. It's the area where Hongik University is (best known for their Fine Arts and Design programs) and where lots and lots of shops, cafes and clubs are (presumably because it's near a popular university). Click this for more of our Hongdae exploration. One of our discoveries in Hongdae was the infamous Hello Kitty Cafe. (UPDATE: as of November 2014, they're now in a new location, see below) I placed the Hello Kitty Cafe as one of the tourist attractions in Hongdae on my kodigo (cheat sheet) i.e. our TripCase travel app. It wasn't easy to spot, though. It was located in one of the inner streets. New location of Hello Kitty Cafe: (map nicked from their official website) Anyway, a stone's throw away from the ...

Feb12015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Seoul City Hall

Government, Korea, Leisure, Seoul, Tourism, Travel

The Seoul Korea City Hall is one of the world's eco and energy efficient buildings. It's also a pretty cool building to look at! Just check out the photos I took of the Seoul City Hall. Located at Taepyeongno, Jung-gu, which is basically the heart of Seoul, the City Hall is right across the Deoksugung Palace and just a few minutes away on foot from the Cheonggyecheon Stream. How to get to Seoul City Hall: Take Seoul Subway Line 1, 2 to reach City Hall Station. Take Exit 2. Found this cute little thing on the right side of the City Hall :) Want to follow more of my Korea trip? Click on Mindanaoan In Korea How to apply for a Korean tourist visa Very helpful Seoul, Korea Travel Tips Cheonggyecheon Stream Deoksugung Palace Changing Of Guards More Korea post...

Feb12015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanaoan In Korea Travel Series: Lotte Mart Seoul

Korea, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Shopping, Tourism, Travel

Lotte Mart in Seoul, Korea sits on a pretty huge complex. Considered as a hypermarket, Lotte Mart is where you can buy groceries, toys, clothes, electronics and lots of other goods. My brother and I weren't there to shop, though. We went to Lotte Mart to EAT! (and take photos, of course!) The Lotte Outlets is in a building right beside Lotte Mart Should you decide to shop, by the way, and your purchase has reached at least 30,000 KRW (Korean won - roughly US $30.00), you are entitled to Lotte Mart's tax refund service. Before you leave, bring all of your receipts to the tax refund counter at Level 1. We went to the supermarket area. Found this food court. Yum! Lotte Mart Seoul Station 122, 2-ka Bongrae-dong, Seoul, South Korea Store hours: 10 AM to 12 m...

Jan312015 by Mindanaoan Irene2 Comments

Behold the majestic Mangima Canyon in Bukidnon

Bukidnon, Mindanaoan Update, Tourism, Travel

Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon may be usually known for Dahilayan Adventure Park and Del Monte Golf and Country Club (home of really good steaks and bottomless Del Monte juice!) but this Bukidnon town is actually also home to something truly GRAND - the Mangima Canyon. Took the photos of below from the Sitio Angeles view deck. This is in between Barangay Dalirig and Maluko. If you have extra time, you can stay here for a bit, relax and enjoy the scenery. There are a couple of huts with benches made out of steel road barriers. UPDATE: These photos show the Maluko Canyon. The Mangima Canyon can be viewed only in part. Thanks Miss Gina for the info. This is truly a breathtaking view. The Mangima Canyon is incredibly beautiful. You must visit Bukidnon soon :) Want to rent a van t...

Jan302015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Salute and rest in peace, Tagaligtas #SAF44

ARMM, Crime, Maguindanao, Mindanao

Today, the Philippines honors the members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (SAF) who died following an armed encounter in Maguindanao, Mindanao last Sunday, January 25, 2015. Rest in peace. We are truly grateful for your service. * Photos from the Official Gazette of the Philippines and Rappler Read: FULL TEXT Pres. Benigno Aquino III statement on the Maguindanao Clash

Jan292015 by Mindanaoan Irene7 Comments

Lovely Lake Mainit in Mindanao Philippines – Why You Need To Visit

Agusan del Norte, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Photos, Resorts, Surigao, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tourism, Travel

Lake Mainit is great proof why Mindanao, Philippines is the land of promise. To say that Lake Mainit is breathtaking is actually an understatement. The beauty of Lake Mainit is arresting. It takes you aback. This lovely lake makes you remember just how beautiful life is. It makes you feel grateful. Lake Mainit, which is actually the deepest lake in the Philippines, is "shared" by the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte. It plays a vital role in commerce, trade and eco-tourism ventures for both provinces. There are a total of 31 lakeshore barangays around this body of water and you can have good views of the lake from the municipalities of Mainit, Alegria, Jabonga and Kitcharao. Took these photos of Lake Mainit from Mainit town. Pardon the quality - only used my phone ...

Jan292015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Design tip: here’s a very easy way to spruce up a blank wall

Arts, Beauty, Features, Gifts, Shopping

I just turned one of the bare and boring walls in our home into instant eye candy with the help of wall stickers! Yep, folks, wall stickers. I've been spotting a lot of Pinterest pins about wall decor stickers and I've been wondering where to get them locally when one of my favorite CDO boutiques, Spruce, sent me a set last Christmas 2014! Woohoo! At bilang it's a new year and all, go go go na in decorating paandar! The set I received had two sticker sheets. Each sticker sheet had "leaves" and "branches/stems." Take note that the box I received had no instructions but it did have a sample of a suggested finished look (check out the face of the box). And so, armed with a pair of scissors, a dose of creativity and imagination plus my favorite Spotify playlist blasting in the backgroun...

Jan282015 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Review: Park Inn Radisson Davao hotel

Davao City, Davao del Sur, Features, Hotels, Mindanaoan Update, Reviews, Tourism, Travel

Perhaps two of the advantages of staying at Park Inn by Radisson Davao are the facts that this Davao hotel is right behind SM Lanang Premiere Mall (which houses the SMX Convention Center) and that it's roughly 15 minutes away from Davao International Airport. Hence, if you want extra minutes of sleep before heading to the airport or if you want to catch a movie or shop, then Park Inn Davao is the ideal hotel for you. I stayed at this business hotel in Davao when I was invited to cover the BIMP-EAGA International Business Leaders Conference. Although I was there for work, I truly had restful nights. I mean, really, who wouldn't have comfortable sleep when you get a bed like this? Comfortable bed - check. Clean sheets - check. Soft pillows - check! My room came with a lo...

Jan282015 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Full text: Pres. Aquino statement on Mamasapano Maguindanao clash

Mindanaoan Update

The following is Philippine President Benigno Aquino III's statement on the controversial Mamasapano, Maguindanao clash. What are your thoughts about this incident? Please share your comments below. Pahayag ng Kagalang-galang Benigno S. Aquino III Pangulo ng Pilipinas Ukol sa insidente sa Mamasapano, Maguindanao [Inihayag sa Palasyo ng Malacañan noong ika-28 Enero 2015] Mga kababayan, Magandang gabi po sa inyong lahat. Humaharap po ako sa inyo ngayon upang iulat ang ating nalalaman ukol sa nangyari sa Mamasapano, Maguindanao, nitong nakaraang Sabado at Linggo. Ginagawa po natin ito hindi upang pangunahan ang board of inquiry na itinalaga upang tuklasin ang buong katotohanan, kundi dahil karapatan ninyong malaman ang alam natin sa puntong ito. Noong Sabado ng gabi, ika-24 ng ...