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New fave Cebu hotel: Cuarto Hotel

New fave Cebu hotel: Cuarto Hotel

Cebu City, Features, Hotels, Leisure, Reviews, Society, Tourism, Travel
Every frequent traveler to Cebu knows this – it’s a continuous challenge to find spacious, well-fitted, affordable, strategically located hotel rooms that offer free delicious buffet breakfast. There will always be something amiss – either the hotel is too far from the city proper or the room may be too small you can barely move around with your luggage. Fortunately, I recently discovered a charming boutique hotel a block away from Fuente Circle Cebu that could easily rival the bigger hotel chains. Cuarto Hotel is just across Robinson’s Cybergate and steps away from a few of Cebu’s biggest hospitals and call centers. Don’t worry, though. While Cuarto Hotel Cebu may be in the midst of the hustle and bustle of city life, you will still have the most comfortable stay. I did! ...
S&R CDO Media Rounds

S&R CDO Media Rounds

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Corporate, Features, Misamis Oriental, Personalities, Shopping
(This article first appeared on my regular newspaper column on Gold Star Daily, Mindanao's largest newspaper. My column, dubbed "Mindanaoan Meets World," appears every Friday). Everyone’s so excited about the impending opening of S&R Membership Shopping at Zone 5, Kauswagan Highway, Cagayan de Oro that it’s practically the talk of the town. I mean, there’s really good reason. After all, S&R CDO sits on a massive property, has a parking space good for a little over 300 vehicles, a tire center where members can have their tires fixed and replaced for free, lots of quality imported goods all at amazingly low prices, lots of buy 1 take 1 deals, freshly delivered quality meats (they have steaks!), freshly made breads and cakes (anybody up for cheesecakes?) and of course, churros, ice...
Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan

Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan

Entertainment, Features, Japan, Leisure, Shopping, Style, Tokyo, Tourism, Travel
It’s the most frantic pedestrian crossing in the entire world. Movies like “The Fast and the Furious” and “Lost in Translation” have featured this very busy, famous intersection. The Shibuya Crossing, also referred to as “The Scramble,” is located in Shibuya, one of Tokyo, Japan’s special wards. The Shibuya Crossing is where pedestrians cross from virtually every direction all at the same time. It’s a crazy scene at this busy junction, I tell you! As soon as the traffic lights turn red, hundreds upon hundreds of people cross. Mind you, however, while everything looks busy and disorderly, you won’t see chaos. In fact, what you’ll see is “well organized, well choreographed chaos,” if you know what I mean. If you’re wondering why so many people cross this junction, it’s because it’s in ...
Take a helicopter ride and see Dahilayan Bukidnon from the sky

Take a helicopter ride and see Dahilayan Bukidnon from the sky

Bukidnon, Features, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Tourism, Travel
Barangay Dahilayan, one of the 22 barangays of the Municipality of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, has truly evolved into Mindanao's favorite playground. From being the home of Asia's longest dual cable zipline to being the place where you can experience the 8-storey platform base jump to now offering helicopter rides! Dahilayan Forest Park, the property beside Dahilayan Adventure Park (where the popular Zipzone is), now offers helicopter rides. According to the Dahilayan Forest Park management, they forged a tie-up with Lion Air for the chopper rides. They're hoping the helicopter service will stay all year round. Currently, the Dahilayan helicopter ride rate is Php 1,200 per person. Aside from the helicopter ride, Dahilayan Forest Park also offers other amenities and servic...
When In CDO: Check out The Oak Room whisky bar

When In CDO: Check out The Oak Room whisky bar

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Entertainment, Events, Features, Food, Leisure, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Restaurant, Reviews, Society
I first wrote about The Oak Room CDO a few weeks back. That post got shared by hundreds of people - proof that the idea of a whisky bar that also has an amazing selection of vodka, tequila, brandy, cognac, scotch, champagne and many more in the middle of bustling Cagayan de Oro is what people have been waiting for. Together with my blogger friends Mike of CDO Places and Vic of Wow CDO (who also happen to be my co-founders of business group Hatch Mastermind), I attended the grand opening of The Oak Room CDO. Located within the compound of The Nest along Corrales Avenue, The Oak Room Cagayan de Oro is a cozy, comfortable gentleman's lounge that has an unparalleled whisky collection. From Ballantine to Famous Grouse to Jameson to Maker's Mark to the likes of Johnnie Walker, Chiva...

New in CDO: 6-minute lights and sounds show at Centrio Mall @MyJaps

Announcements, Cagayan de Oro City, Entertainment, Features, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, Society, Tourism
It was truly a magical night of lights last December 1, 2016 as the Centrio Mall management unveiled the lights and sounds show at the Garden area. It was a 6-minute show reminiscent of what you can also see at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City. Kapuso star Julie Ann San Jose regaled the crowd with a few songs before she joined Centrio Mall general manager Natalie Mae Crisostomo and CDO City Tourism Consultant Dorothy Pabayo at the ceremonial switch-on. By the way, major thanks to all of the MyJaps fans who retweeted, reshared and reposted the content I produced that night. A lot of them patiently watched my snaps, IG stories and my Facebook live video! You guys are awesome and Julie Ann is very lucky to have fans like you :) Here's the Facebook Live vi...
Novuhair breaks down hair truths versus myths

Novuhair breaks down hair truths versus myths

Beauty, Consumer, Features, Mindanaoan Update
I regularly color my hair. I started out with the auburns, deep browns and burgundy shades. These days, however, you can see me sporting light colors (platinum, blonde and the like). In other words, I like experimenting. However, as much as I don't like to admit it, I am putting harmful chemicals on my hair. For others, putting chemicals can result in migraine, nausea and skin rashes. These symptoms may be quickly attributed to stress but if you look closer, the culprit may just be your hair product! Novuhair, nature’s answer to hair loss, gives us the lowdown on these chemicals. Check out these hair myths versus hair truths. Myth: Shampoo must produce lots of lather in order to properly clean your hair. Truth: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a compound that helps shampoo and ...
Here’s a great reason why you must renew your contract with Globe Telecom for your #iPhone7 and #iPhone7Plus

Here’s a great reason why you must renew your contract with Globe Telecom for your #iPhone7 and #iPhone7Plus

Announcements, Business, Consumer, Features, Internet, Mindanaoan Update, Technology
The long wait is over! Globe Telecom has finally announced it will offer iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, the best, most advanced iPhone ever, featuring an all-new advanced camera system, dust and water resistant design, stereo speaker system and the A10 Fusion chip which is the most powerful chip on any smartphone while delivering the best battery life ever in an iPhone. One of the two phones I personally use is an iPhone 6s so I'm really stoked to learn about this development! Customers like myself can NOW start reserving their iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus via www.globe.com.ph/iPhone7. The new smartphones will be available through the Globe myLifestyle plans that already come with unlimited texts and calls to Globe/TM, mobile data and free access to content such as Netflix, Disney Channel...
CDO rafting rate increase now approved – see the new fees here

CDO rafting rate increase now approved – see the new fees here

Announcements, Features, Leisure, Mindanaoan Update, Northern Mindanao, Society, Tourism, Travel
IT'S OFFICIAL. The Oro Association of Rafters (OAR) will now implement new and increased rates for white water rafting in Cagayan de Oro. These new CDO rafting rates will actually help the industry. Please read on so we may all understand :) Back in January, I first wrote about the rate increase proposal. Now, I learned that the new CDO rafting rates have already been duly approved and that all of the rafting outfitters have started implementing them last October 1, 2016. The new rates are as follows: * Celebrities Aga Muhlach and Rowell Santiago try CDO rafting with Great White Water Tours Basic rafting course / Lower section (2-3 hours) - Php 1,200 per person. Plus Php 200 if you want the package to include snack, lunch (or dinner). This is optional. Advance rafting co...

BREAKING: H&M To Open First Store In Cagayan de Oro

Announcements, Beauty, Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Fashion, Features, Mindanaoan Update, Misamis Oriental, News, Northern Mindanao, Shopping, Society, Style
I first wrote about H&M (Hennes & Mauritz, Inc.) CDO and about what it will be like to be a part of their team months ago. Now, H&M CDO is finally opening! The Cagayan de Oro H&M store is part of their continuous expansion in the southern part of Philippine shores and will serve as its 18th store in the country. Are you excited yet? Because you bet I am! The over 1,500 square meter, 2-story store will welcome shoppers on October 27, 2016, 11 AM at Centrio Mall at CM Recto Avenue corner Corrales Avenue, Cagayan de Oro. Follow my Facebook page and Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates! “The response from our Mindanao customers, after we opened our 1 st store in Davao just last month, has been incredible! We look forward to catering to even more of the same vibran...
Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2016 schedule

Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2016 schedule

Announcements, Camiguin, Entertainment, Events, Features, Festivals, Fiesta, Society, Tourism, Travel
Camiguin Island is again set to celebrate the Lanzones Festival 2016 in a few days and I have the full Camiguin Lanzones Festival 2016 schedule of events. (much thanks to the Office of Congressman XJ Romualdo!) This annual celebration of bountiful harvest in the Island Born of Fire will feature various activities that will highlight the rich culture, tradition and warmth of Camiguinons. Of course, while you're in Camiguin for the 2016 Lanzones Festival, take advantage of the beautiful tourist spots and the abundant (and cheap!) fleshy lanzones fruits. Interested to visit Camiguin? I have these related resources for you: Camiguin Travel Guide Mantigue Island - A must-visit! White Island, Camiguin - Paradise! Eating sea urchins at White Island, Camiguin Sto. Nino Cold Spring, Camig...
Globe Telecom reveals more amazing partnerships, perks during WWG 11

Globe Telecom reveals more amazing partnerships, perks during WWG 11

Announcements, Business, Consumer, Corporate, Entertainment, Events, Features, Mindanaoan Update
Last July, I was in Manila to personally witness Globe Telecom executives announce the company's partnerships with some of the world's biggest brands - Netflix, Disney, Astro, Sports Illustrated, Smule, Cartoon Network - as well as the birth of Globe Studios and Globe Live. I was already very impressed then (especially since I'm a longtime Globe subscriber). Just a few days ago, however, I became even more impressed when Globe Telecom again proved that they truly are the leader in digital content through their latest collaborations. At Globe’s 11th quarterly media event dubbed "Wonderful World with Globe" or "WWG11," the company announced its latest milestones and events for the quarter: - activation of more 700 MHz cell sites that registered speeds of up to 80 mbps during rush hour ...

CD-R King now has affordable LED light tubes

Features, Technology
Haven't we all tried using fluorescent lights in our homes at least once? What seemed to be a harmless household product later on proved to be harmful in the long run. Years after fluorescent was discovered, it was found out that fluorescent gives off a small amount of ultraviolet light and that 8 hours of exposure under a fluorescent light is already equivalent to an hour of sun exposure. Scary! Some of us may have also later on switched to CFL (which was said to be less harmful) but it still contained fluorescent. Ergo, mercury is still present. Thankfully, the invention of LED has saved us from the long term use of fluorescent. Definitely great news for all consumers!   We can now purchase the LED Light Tube. It gives the same high light output of fluorescen...

Why Toast Cafe Should Be On Your Must Visit In Cebu List

Cafe, Cebu City, Features, Food, Hotels, Restaurant, Reviews, Taiwan, Tourism, Travel, Visayas
I’m back on Philippine shores! Taiwan was lovely and I can’t wait to share with you all my travel stories. In the meantime, let me share a really cool place I just discovered in Cebu City, where I took my flight to Taiwan from. It’s called Toast Cafe, it’s located at Cuarto Hotel near Fuente Circle, and it’s awesome. Toast Cafe is chic with its brick walls and wooden furniture yet homey with its chalkboards and friendly, attentive staff. Space is limited but is private enough to let you concentrate on your own meal, laptop or book. Tasteful interiors and a great use of space. Plus this may sound peculiar but can I just say that you must use the john (slang for washroom!) while you’re there? Toast Cafe is a nice date place, a place where you can meet your gal pals or have fami...
Globe 0917 Giveaway – Just share your Globe throwbacks and WIN!

Globe 0917 Giveaway – Just share your Globe throwbacks and WIN!

Announcements, Contests, Corporate, Features, Freebies, Mindanaoan Update, Technology
I've been a Globe Telecom subscriber for decades! I remember my first phone was a humongous Nokia 10, subscribed to a Globe line. It was such a big deal to have a cellular phone at the time. Never mind if the phone only allowed me to type and view up to two lines of text. If you had a Globe line (I believe the subscription plan I had then was unlimited call and text to fellow Globe users), you were IN! I can actually still recite my very first Globe number. It started with 0917. Then, when I moved to Globe prepaid a few years later, I had a different number but it still started with 0917. A few years after that, I acquired a new number (STILL 0917!) and retained that up to this day. I also have another line and it's still 0917. Needless to say, I'm a loyal Globe Telecom subscriber. ...
S&R Cagayan de Oro to hold Buy 1 Take 1, 50 percent off promos

S&R Cagayan de Oro to hold Buy 1 Take 1, 50 percent off promos

Announcements, Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Corporate, Features, Mindanaoan Update, Northern Mindanao, Shopping, Society, United States of America
Let me make this fast and simple - S&R Membership Shopping Cagayan de Oro is holding its Members' Treat from September 30 to October 2, 2016, 8 AM to 9 PM. That means buy 1 take 1 deals and awesome discounts of up to 50 percent! Big, big, BIG savings! And, hey, look, that's a payday weekend! :D Trust me, the S&R CDO Members' Treat event is the perfect time to hoard on all your favorite health and beauty products, imported snacks, imported grocery, imported ice cream, frozen, fresh, produce, home items and bakery goods! And here's a little teaser for you all - why don't you follow Mindanaoan on Facebook so you can have some ideas on which products will go on sale!!! *wink* SHARE this good news with everyone and plan a shopping trip together! See you at S&R CD...

Globe Telecom brings you these wonderful surprises this September

Announcements, Consumer, Features, Freebies, Society, Style, Technology
The signature Globe prefix 917 always had a special bond to most of the company's customers, especially those who are loyal to the service for over 10 years. Brought to life through the actual date, September 17, this month serves as the perfect time to set a wonderful celebration nationwide. Through delightful and rewarding experiences, Globe expresses its gratitude to all its customers for their continued patronage, making it the country’s leading mobile brand. This month, all Globe customers nationwide are in for an exciting line-up of events, treats and exclusive deals from shopping to food and travel. “We have gone through an inspiring and exciting journey with our customers – from milestone services to network upgrades - all bringing us to where we are today. We are grateful to...

Where to eat in CDO: Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant

Cagayan de Oro City, Features, Food, Misamis Oriental, Reviews, Zamboanga City
If you've been to Zamboanga City, Mindanao, have dropped by popular Alavar's Seafood Restaurant and have tried their extraordinary Alavar sauce, then you'd understand why I just had to visit their latest branch - their second in Cagayan de Oro. Located at the Cucina de Oro Compound, Limketkai Drive, Alavar's Seafood and Grill CDO is owned by the very same folks in Zamboanga. The first branch of Alavar's CDO is located along Aluba Road, Macasandig and just a few weeks ago, they opened their branch downtown. Alavar's CDO Limketkai branch is a lot more accessible since it's just a few moments away from Limketkai Mall. Alavar's is best known for its sauce which goes best with rice and various seafood dishes. Because of the popularity of the sauce, Alavar's now sells them in bottl...

Deta Beauty Cosmetics August 2016 launch in CDO Philippines

Announcements, Beauty, Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Events, Fashion, Features, Mindanaoan Artists, Mindanaoan Update, Shopping, Society, Style
Absolutely great news for fellow makeup aficionados! I first shared the news on my beauty and fashion blog, Women Treats, but please allow me to share the news here on Mindanaoan as well! Deta Beauty will launch their pioneering line of quality cosmetics this August 20, 2016 in Cagayan de Oro, Philippines! This will be the pioneer launch of this innovative line of paraben and cruelty-free makeup line. Founded by Chicago, USA-based power couple Saad and Kathleen Maniar, Deta Beauty offers a wide range of quality makeup products such as the very trendy lip lacquers, foundation, eye shadows as well as various palettes for bronzing and contouring. The De Ta Beauty Cosmetics CDO launch will also be a homecoming of sorts for Kathleen, who is a native of Cagayan de Oro. Deta is actually ...

7 fun things about The Chainsmokers (and how to win tickets to their Manila concert)

Entertainment, Events, Features, Manila, Music
Are the songs "Roses," "Don't Let Me Down" and "Closer" on your playlist? Why, hello there, fellow Chainsmokers fan! From groundbreaking performances, to their wild acts, and now a world tour running, our Chainsmokers boys have really been very busy! I bet you also know that they're bringing the party here in the Philippines. Now before we catch them live, check out these 7 fun facts about our favorite duo and a few of their hit tracks! 1. The Chainsmokers pre-performance ritual - Before getting onto the stage, some artists have vocal warm ups and some sweat it out, but for this duo, it’s a different scenario. Imagine them having a few drinks (or a lot in a number of shows) before they turn the stage upside down, or punch each other in the face just to hype the party monsters in them. T...
PHOTOS: Sneak peek inside S&R Membership Shopping Cagayan de Oro

PHOTOS: Sneak peek inside S&R Membership Shopping Cagayan de Oro

Announcements, Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Consumer, Corporate, Events, Features, Headline, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Muslim Mindanao, News, Northern Mindanao, Shopping, Society, United States of America
World-class shopping center S&R Membership Shopping will finally open in Cagayan de Oro on July 28, 2016, 9 AM! S&R CDO is a membership-shopping club modeled after the warehouse membership shopping chains introduced in the United States. Located along Kauswagan Highway (across the RTMI garage, before you take a right towards the Bulua Bus Terminal if you're coming from CDO city proper), S&R CDO will offer irresistible promos and discounts on opening day. So be sure to be there! Actually, if you already got your new membership card and have your voucher booklet (with coupons worth as much as Php 65,000!), you can use the red coupons from September 1 to 7, 2016 as well. Anyway, let me take you to a sneak peek of S&R CDO. You can also find store rules, store hours and ot...

FrostBites CDO: Singapore-style ice cream sandwiches

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Features, Food, Reviews
If you've been to Singapore, I bet you've seen those "uncles" who have those mobile carts with umbrellas and sell that infamous 1 SGD (roughly 33 Philippine pesos) ice cream. These ice cream sellers are actually all over Singapore especially at places with very high foot traffic - tourist spots, MRT stations, busy street corners etc. During my very first trip to Singapore several years ago, I made sure that I included "buy that 1 SGD ice cream wafer along Orchard Road" in my itinerary. Actually, some of those mobile ice cream carts also sell ice cream by the cones and cups. Some also sell softdrinks, water, juice drinks and energy drinks. But, of course, the main product is still the ice cream sandwich. Now here's good news for people who have been craving for the popular Singapore i...
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