Features Archives - Mindanaoan - Multi awarded CDO and New York Lifestyle Blog

May272024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

The ‘Sleeping Dinosaur’ in Mati, Davao Oriental

Davao City, Davao Oriental, Features, Tourism, Travel

The Sleeping Dinosaur is a popular tourist destination in Mati, Davao Oriental, known for its picturesque view resembling a sleeping dinosaur. This natural landmark is part of Pujada Island and offers stunning vistas of the coastline and the surrounding waters. Contrary to popular belief, however, the Sleeping Dinosaur isn't an island. It is a promontory - an area of land sticking out into the sea. Check out this photo I took from the viewing deck: WATCH: https://youtube.com/shorts/Ga7e-kLqCT0?si=nKM6MPRX3nLPgGsS I went to Mati primarily to visit Dahican, one of its barangays. Dahican is super popular among skimboarders and surfers alike. However, even non-surfers can still enjoy the almost 2 kilometer stretch of fine white sand beach and that's basically what I did...

May242024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Traveloka partners with Cebu Pacific Airlines to boost travel in Southeast Asia to Philippines

Features, Mindanaoan Update, Technology, Tourism, Travel

Traveloka, the leading travel platform in Southeast Asia, has announced a strategic partnership with Filipino low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) to attract more foreign tourists to visit the Philippines by implementing an application programming interface that will allow inbound travelers to explore CEB flights through the travel app. Aligned with Traveloka’s commitment to helping the tourism industry in Southeast Asia recover from the pandemic, this initiative is expected to positively contribute to the growth of Philippine tourism by making it easier for foreign tourists to explore the country's exciting destinations. The Philippines's tourism sector continues to perform strongly year after year. The Philippine Department of Tourism recorded more than 5.4 million foreign traveler...

May232024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

mWell launches fully-loaded Smart Watches and Rings

Advocacy, Corporate, Events, Features, Health, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Technology

mWell, the digital healthcare arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), recently unveiled a roster of innovative offerings in an impressive digital showcase held at a grand ballroom of a hotel in Bonifacio Global City. The event dubbed “mWell Unboxed” marked the newest milestone in mWell’s history as it goes beyond telemedicine and strengthens its commitment to holistic health. The gathering witnessed the launch of the Mind Health Score feature, new generation mWell Watches, which are fully loaded with health features at a budget-friendly price, and the light yet powerful mWell Rings. Hosted by Iza Calzado and Markki Stroem, mWell Unboxed transported guests to the mWell multiverse, which showcased a full line-up of features and products, milestones, and inspiring testi...

May132024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

7-Eleven opens first Crunch Time dine-in store in Mindanao

Business, Consumer, Features, Food, General Santos City, Mindanaoan Update

Quick, filling and very affordable. These are the reasons why I'm a big fan of 7-Eleven’s Crunch Time! I can no longer count the times when I simply had to address hunger pangs and 7-Eleven is right there to the rescue with their delicious Crunch Time choices. Now, 7-Eleven further amplifies the fried chicken love with yet another Crunch Time Dine-In Store as a pit stop forcustomers to power up and enjoy its scrumptious snacks and meals --- and it's the very first store in Mindanao! This General Santos City 7-Eleven store, located at Lot 667-A J. Catolico Sr. Avenue, Lagao, makes history as the first 7-Eleven Crunch Time Dine-In Store in Mindanao and the fourth nationwide. The store was officially launched last April 5 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and store blessing graced...

May132024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Went to Japanese restaurant chain Botejyu as they opened their 86th branch in Cagayan de Oro

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Features, Food, Japan, Mindanaoan Update, Restaurant, Reviews

Botejyu CDO at Ayala Centrio Mall is NOW OPEN! The 86th branch of BOTEJYU Philippines is NOW OPEN at the Garden Corte (garden area, ground floor) of Ayala Malls Centrio Cagayan de Oro! Absolutely good news for Japanese cuisine lovers like me. Went during their opening and Botejyu’s dishes truly took me back to my happy days in Japan! I liked their open kitchen --- you can see how they prepare your food. I also liked that their staff members were courteous and helpful and --- this is important to me --- knowledgeable about their menu. I thoroughly enjoyed the tonkotsu ramen with char siu, okonomiyaki (Botejyu isn't Japan's pioneer okonomiyaki specialty restaurant chain for nothing!), assorted sushi, skewers (your kids will like these!) and their delicious takoyaki! Related posts:...

May72024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Attending the 3rd National Investigative Journalism conference Philippines 2024 #IJPH2024

Advocacy, Events, Features, Journalism, Manila, Media, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

The 3rd National Investigative Journalism Conference in the Philippines for 2024 was held from April 30 to May 2, 2024 in Quezon City and was hosted by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ). The conference aimed to provide a learning, sharing, and capacity-building venue for participants to appreciate the importance of investigative journalism and watchdog journalism in the face of increasingly challenging political and information environments. I feel absolutely honored and inspired to have been a part of the 3rd National #IJPH2024 100 journalists. 46 speakers. 3 plenary sessions. 12 breakout sessions. Topics were extremely relevant and urgent including artificial intelligence, deep fakes, social media for news and public engagement, 2025 elections (!!!), collab...

Apr162024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

WATCH: the amazing Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra LIVE in Bukidnon

Advocacy, Arts, Culture, Entertainment, Events, Features, Festivals, Government, Mindanaoan Update, Music

The world-class Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Herminigildo Ranera, recently performed live in Bukidnon. A very first in the Province of Bukidnon, considered the food basket of the country. The two live performances, one at 2 PM and another at 7 PM of April 12, 2024, were made possible by Senate President Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri and the Cultural Center of the Philippines in celebration of the inauguration of the Bukidnon Center for Culture and the Arts, located at the new Bukidnon Sports and Cultural Complex, Barangay Laguitas, Malaybalay City. I was able to attend both performances, thanks to my dear friend Senate President Migz Zubiri. Daghang salamat, SP! I was also given all access passes for other events that weekend, which I will soon share on th...

Jan312024 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

When in CDO: Visit Cogon Night Market

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Features, Food, LifeStyle, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Tourism

Here's something you might want to do when you're in Cagayan de Oro - visit the Cogon Night Market! From buying vegetables to used clothing ("ukay-ukay"), electronics, cellphone cases etc to checking out an entire street full of food cart vendors, the Cogon Night Market in CDO is a bustling destination you might want to check out. In fact, the local government of Cagayan de Oro has been exerting efforts to turn the Cogon Night Market into a tourist destination of sorts. My friends and I visited the food market along Guillermo Street and as expected, there was a throng of people as early as 6 PM. Check out this brief video I made during our visit: https://youtube.com/shorts/aaI5U_knMCQ?si=D4LPVDFj_c2mg3kv Some fast facts about the Cagayan de Oro Night Market: Vendor...

Jan232024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Big Bad Wolf to bring world’s largest book sale to Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro City, Events, Features

Fellow bookworms, rejoice! Big Bad Wolf will take the world’s largest book sale to Cagayan de Oro, Philippines. This is truly groundbreaking as this marks the first time Big Bad Wolf will bring its world-famous collection of books to CDO. There was a press conference a few days ago but I was in Cebu City (look at what I've been up to!) so I wasn't able to attend. However, I'm pleased to share information about this much-awaited book sale! Big Bad Wolf CDO will be a testament to BBW's never-ending commitment to spreading the joy of reading. As a book lover myself, I can say that Big Bad Wolf Cagayan de Oro will help foster a deeper appreciation for literature and support the ever-expanding community of avid readers. Big Bad Wolf CDO will take place from February 2 to 18, 2024 at ...

Jan222024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

lyf Cebu, a colorful coliving space, is now open!

Business, Cebu City, Features, Hotels, Mindanaoan Update, Reviews, Travel, Visayas

lyf Cebu City is now officially open and I was there during the grand launch! lyf Cebu officially swung open its doors on January 16, 2024 ushering in a new chapter of co-living and community-centric service. This colorful, comfortable and value-for-money property is developed by Cebu Landmasters INC., a Visayas-based firm, alongside Citadines Cebu City, Citadines Bacolod City, and Citadines Paragon Davao. Check out this video I made when I attended the grand launch of lyf Cebu: * You can also view the video here: Instagram: lyf Cebu TikTok: lyf Cebu Facebook: lyf Cebu https://youtube.com/shorts/maOr4wsCo_A?si=tMsgZnuimabbc-Z6 Strategically located at Tower 3, Base Line, lyf Cebu City serves as the perfect launchpad for guests to effortlessly explore the vibrant Qu...

Dec202023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Kagay-anon Sony Music artists return home to hold special Christmas benefit gig

Advocacy, Cagayan de Oro City, Events, Features, Music

Catch Cagayan de Oro's very own singer-songwriter Ela Figura and RnB hip-hop band Sulo, both Sony Music acts, as they return home and hold a special Christmas gig that will benefit the "Home for Girls," a residential facility that provides protection, care, treatment and rehabilitation to abused and exploited girls below 18 years old. Ela Figura, the singer-songwriter recently signed with Ricky Ilacad's record label Off The Record under Sony Music Entertainment, is set to host a heartwarming Christmas Benefit Gig in her hometown on December 21, 2023. The event aims to support the "Home for Girls" by providing essential art materials for the residents in need. Joining her is the RnB Hip-Hop band Sulo, part of the esteemed roster of artists signed with Ely Buendia's record label Offs...

Dec42023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Marudori: two thumbs up for this halal-certified, chicken ramen place

Features, Food, Manila, Mindanaoan Update, Reviews

One of the things I don't mind doing on my own is go on a solo food trip. Enjoying food with family and friends is great, of course, but there are times when you just want peace, quiet and just time for yourself, your thoughts, your plans in life and whatnots. Anyway, one of the places I visited on my own was Marudori, which serves chicken-based ramen. I went to Marudori's newer branch located at Salcedo Village, Makati. Their other branch is located at Rockwell. A sister company of Mendokoro Ramenba, which serves pork-based ramen, Marudori also has an open kitchen where you can observe how they prepare the gyozas and the ramen bowls. To start your meal, you might want to try the tsukune. It’s similar to chicken tocino but you dip it into this egg yolk and special sauce mixture an...

Nov152023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Catch the Ayala Centrio Mall CDO Magical Nights of Lights 2023

Cagayan de Oro City, Entertainment, Events, Features, Misamis Oriental, Society, Tourism

It's the yearly tradition you and your loved ones don't want to miss! Our favorite mall in Cagayan de Oro, Ayala Centrio Mall CDO, is back with their most-awaited Magical Nights of Lights! This Christmas light show runs daily every 30 minutes starting at 6 PM. Also, this nightly Centrio Mall CDO light show will run until January 6, 2023. It’s a truly festive, beautiful time to create and celebrate traditions with loved ones! Go ahead and visit! This CDO content creator also recommends that you check out the shops and restaurants at Centrio and treat yourself and your loved ones. After all, it's the Christmas holidays! Check out what happened when Ayala Centrio invited me, your friendly Cagayan de Oro influencer, during the launch: (as always, big thanks to Centrio for always remem...

Oct62023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Earn EXTRAAAA cash when you travel this 10.10

Consumer, Contests, Features, Shopping

Revenge travel is real! I'm sure you know someone who has traveled as soon as the restrictions have been lifted. Given the chance, I'm also pretty sure you have a long list of destinations you also want to discover. However, let's admit it - we always need to have a budget in mind. The best travel deals This is why I am happy that I can get cashback on my favorite travel apps and websites via ShopBack! Did you know that you can get cashback from your hotel bookings, airlines, and even activities? Here are some of the deals that they have this 10.10! You can get cashback from Agoda, Booking.com, Klook, and more! For a P10,000 hotel booking for example - you can get P750 cashback! You can also get cashback from airlines! Singapore Airlines, Etihad, Emirates, and AirAsia are ju...

Oct22023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Unleash Your Inner Chef at Nuda CDO: The Ultimate DIY Korean Ramyun Experience

Business, Consumer, Features, Food, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Restaurant, Reviews

If you're in the mood for something warm, comforting and delicious (not to mention very affordable), and you're a ramyeon / ramyun / ramen lover like me, then look no further than Nuda CDO. Nuda is the new (and BEST so far...trust me!) DIY Korean ramyun restaurant in Cagayan de Oro. Nestled just a stone's throw away from the Xavier University gym along Corrales Avenue - right at the heart of downtown Cagayan de Oro City. Nuda is the brainchild of my longtime friend - none other than singer/composer/artist and CDO's very own pride and joy, Titus John "TJ" Monterde, along with his wife, singer KZ Tandingan and their families. How they came up with the name of this business is a cute story. Here's how TJ explained it: https://youtube.com/shorts/fpvedOSTld4?feature=share What s...

Sep262023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

My fave discounted finds at the S&R Members Fest 2023 – lots of Buy 1 Take 1 deals

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Davao City, Features, Mindanaoan Update, Shopping

It's officially one of my super favorite days of the year! I'm talking about the great S&R Members Fest 2023! For the whole month of September, our favorite warehouse shopping center is offering a shopping extravaganza like no other. Lots of Buy 1 Take 1 deals, up to 50% off and lots of big, big savings! The weekly deals are really something --- just check out some of my amazing finds during my numerous visits at S&R. From food to household items to kitchenware to pet supplies to snacks to even alcoholic drinks --- the deals are just incredible. Perfect time for you to be a member of S&R if you still aren't! Also, keep in mind that being an S&R member also gets you access to their tire center, where I myself availed of many freebies, letting me save thousands! Don't...

Sep42023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

GCash, Fuse Lending now offers Sakto Loan

Business, Consumer, Corporate, Features, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

GCash, together with Fuse Lending Inc., recently introduced GCash Sakto Loans, a nano loan offer that enables GCash users to easily borrow small amounts as ‘pambale,’ as it seeks to provide more Filipinos with access to fair, easy and inclusive loan options without the need for bureaucratic paperwork. This is definitely good news for folks who needs a little "breather" from financial obligations and with just the right amount, something that the borrower knows he or she can comfortably pay back in time. A GCash study found that nine out of 10 Filipinos have to borrow money to make ends meet. But with the rigorous loan application process set by formal institutions and banks, more than half resort to borrowing from informal lenders with high interest rates and sometimes abusive colle...

Aug302023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Coca-Cola Zamboanga plant marks 56 years of service

Features, Food, Mindanaoan Update, Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur

Did you know that Coca Cola Zamboanga is half of Coca Cola Philippines' age? You see, Coke Philippines was established in the country 111 years ago. This year, Coke Zamboanga marks its 56th year! Cool, huh? Since its establishment in the Philippines 111 years ago, Coca-Cola has upheld its mission of providing happy refreshing moments to Filipinos across the country and making a difference to local communities. The company has been consistently implementing sustainability efforts and undertakes programs for the communities that it operates in - a way of giving back to the Filipinos that have opened their homes to Coca-Cola. The Coca-Cola Zamboanga Plant, which celebrates its 56th anniversary this year, is one of the leading examples of the company’s operational philosophy. Located in...

Aug82023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

First ever Tourist Rest Area in Mindanao now open

Announcements, Bukidnon, Business, Features, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Tourism, Travel

The first ever Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Mindanao is now open! The said TRA has been inaugurated in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, which is about an hour away from Cagayan de Oro, and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco even graced the event. Tourists traveling to Bukidnon and neighboring provinces can now make a safe and comfortable stopover at the said TRA. A flagship project of the DOT to provide convenience and comfort to tourists, this Mindanao tourist rest area is a convergence point that foreign and local travelers could approach to get information on tourism sites and attractions, activities, and accommodations, and to report concerns related to safety and security. According to the DOT, the construction of TRAs in strategic locations all over the country is a f...

Jul182023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Discover the Future of Luxury Living in Cagayan de Oro: The Midtown and The Montage by Vista Estates

Cagayan de Oro City, Features, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Society

Welcome to the vibrant city of Cagayan de Oro, where the allure of modern living meets the tranquil beauty of nature. If you're a prospective real estate investor or property broker searching for the next big opportunity, look no further. Vista Estates is proud to present two upcoming properties that are set to redefine luxury living in this thriving city: The Midtown and The Montage. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GRAND LAUNCH: I was invited to the grand launch of these two properties in Cagayan de Oro (thanks, Vista Estates!) Check out this mini highlights vlog that I made: https://youtube.com/shorts/fluKLy1GZ58?feature=share Unveiling The Midtown at Canitoan: Located in the neighborhood of Canitoan, The Midtown by Vista Estates is a vision of urban elegance. Inspired ...

Jun242023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Why you need to catch the culinary offerings of the new Seda Centrio Chef

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Events, Features, Food, Hotels, LifeStyle, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Society, Sulu

I was recently invited to meet the new Executive Sous Chef of Seda Centrio Hotel and try his culinary creations. Chef Benzar Joe Aradani, who hails from Jolo, Sulu and who brings with him a wealth of culinary experience and expertise in various regional cuisines, impressed me and the food served that night was equally impressive! Coming from a Christian-Muslim background with an Indonesian father and Filipino mother, Chef Ben has earned him a reputation for creating unique and creative dishes, proven by the numerous awards he has received throughout his 33-year career. The tuna dish he prepared right before our very eyes that night was undoubtedly so tender and very flavorful. CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS POSTED ON THE MINDANAOAN FACEBOOK PAGE In the video I took below, yo...

Jun242023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Are you a fellow breadwinner? This GCash story will pull your heartstrings

Announcements, Business, Consumer, Corporate, Fashion, Features, Internet, Society, Technology

I have been the breadwinner of my family for decades. It's something I take utmost pride of and it's something I enjoy and don't complain about but I must admit, there really are times when it can be physically, emotionally and mentally draining. That's why I can absolutely relate to the recently released GCash Stories episode featuring Turing Quinto, a Filipino drag performer and contestant on the debut season of Drag Race Philippines. As the face of GCash’s “Werk With Pride” advocacy for Pride Month, Turing's story delves into her aspirations and determination to succeed in life while showing the challenges faced by breadwinners striving to make ends meet. Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, the film also celebrates pride by putting a spotlight on GCash's commitment to inclusivity an...