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

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 S...

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 ann...

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...

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...

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...

Sep152023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Sen. Chiz Escudero wants mandatory insurance coverage for powerline workers

Advocacy, Announcements, Corporate, Government, Society, Technology

Senator Chiz Escudero has recently filed a bill that seeks to provide mandatory insurance coverage and other benefits for all lineworkers in the power utility sector. This is definitely good news especially since I personally know some lineworkers in the power utility sector and most, if not all, of them shared that they barely make enough to purchase insurance not only for themselves but for their loved ones as well. In filing Senate Bill No. 2303, Senator Chiz Escudero said the measure will ensure that the well-being of thousands of lineworkers as well as that of their families are protected. “The continuous and reliable supply of electricity—crucial in sustaining our economic growth and maintaining our way of life—rests on the hands of lineworkers who construct, install, mai...

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...

Jul252023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Single mom’s love and foresight saves daughters after COVID-19 tragedy

Mindanaoan Update, Society, Technology

Cathy Santos, a courageous single mother, and small business owner, took decisive action to protect her daughters' future amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Her story is a testament to the power of love and thoughtful financial planning in the face of adversity. During a visit to her BDO branch, she was able to talk to a BDO Life Financial Advisor (FA). Cathy sought life insurance policies for her two daughters. Her intention was very specific – she wanted to provide her children a financial head start which they could spend for whatever they needed as they got older. The BDO Life FA noted Cathy’s commitment and sense of responsibility. She asked Cathy a crucial question: “Why not get a life insurance policy for yourself as well? You’re the sole breadwinner of a single-income ho...

Jul182023 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

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 ...

Jul152023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Healthcare for fur babies – where to buy insurance for our pets

Society

Filipinos love their dogs and cats now more than ever. The numbers even bear this out. Here are few interesting facts about Filipino fur parents and their fur babies, according to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale: Highest in Asia-Pacific. An amazing 67% of households in the Philippines have one or more dogs. There are more dog owners in the country compared to the rest of the Asia-Pacific region. Cat owners aren't far behind; 43% of Filipino households have cats. By the millions. In 2020, it was found that there are 11.6 million dog owners in the Philippines who stay with 10.8 million dogs in their homes. That number includes 1.57 million registered purebred dogs. Still growing. More dogs (and presumably cats, too) are joining Filipino families as the years go by. In 20...

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...

May192023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

POPS Buffet at SM CDO Downtown now offers expanded menu, now with new Asian flavors

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Features, Food, Mindanaoan Update, Restaurant, Society

POPS Buffet a.k.a. POPS All Filipino Eatery, the most preferred and most affordable eat-and-drink-all-you-can restaurant inside a mall in Cagayan de Oro (SM CDO Downtown Premiere) now offers an expanded menu that includes new Asian flavors! Aside from their staples, POPS Buffet now adds Asian treats such as bulgogi, gyudon, mafo tofu, pad thai, Vietnamese spring roll and more. I highly recommend that you call them beforehand to check which Asian flavors they will have on the day that you plan to visit. Check out the photos I took during a recent visit to POPS Buffet at SM CDO Downtown Premiere: The buffet is available everyday during mall hours. Please call 0917 873 0800 for inquiries and/or table reservations. POPS All Filipino Eatery is a homeg...

May42023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Get your tissues ready: Ate Alma’s story will pull your heartstrings

Advocacy, Features, Internet, Society, Technology

This is a story of camaraderie and community...and, personally, lots of pure love towards our fellow brothers and sisters. You see, while it's true that technology makes life easier, another one of its advantages is that it helps continue to strengthen connections and foster relationships. Take the case of Ate Alma, a photocopy operator in a university and a family breadwinner, who lost her home due to typhoon flooding. Her story, which I guarantee will definitely pull your heartstrings, was featured in a short film directed by no less than Antoinette Jadaone. Ate Alma's story was included among the tearjerking, heartwarming #GCashStories that prove just how technology not only makes daily transactions easier, but also provides an accessible way to genuinely lend a helping hand. Mo...

Apr62023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanaoan.com wins at Globe Media Excellence Awards GMEA 10

Advocacy, Announcements, Blogging, Cagayan de Oro City, Features, Headline, Internet, LifeStyle, Media, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Musings, News, Personal, Personalities, Social Media, Society, Technology

I WON! I am so proud and honored to share that Mindanaoan.com won the award for Digital Storytelling: Best Blog Post during the milestone year of the Globe Media Excellence Awards! On March 31, 2023 in Cebu City, the Globe Group named the winners of GMEA @10, which honors exceptional reporting across platforms in both Visayas and Mindanao. In its milestone year, GMEA embraced the theme #OneDigitalNation, which celebrated stories that captured the impact of Globe-led innovations that uplift lives with compassion, care, and kindness. For the Best Blog Post award, Maria Irene Aserios a.k.a. Mindanaoan won! Days before the awarding ceremony, Globe announced the list of finalists. I was one of the 3 finalists for Best Blog Post (Mindanao). And then last March 31 in Cebu, I was decla...

Mar222023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

GCash now in the United States, enables Filipinos to sign up with US numbers

Announcements, Business, Consumer, Corporate, Features, Korea, Malaysia, New York, Singapore, Society, Technology, United States of America

GCash Overseas has officially landed in the United States, allowing the first 1,000 Filipinos there to sign up for the Philippines’ number one financial app by using their US mobile numbers. This is definitely good news especially for those who frequently send money back home. Filipinos in the US can begin signing up for GCash regardless of their SIM cards and start supporting their families back home by sending money for FREE (GCash to GCash), paying bills, and buying them prepaid load credits. GCash President and CEO Martha Sazon said that they are also preparing for a full launch later this year. Earlier this month, GCash received the green light from the BSP to start the initial launch of its overseas service which allowed Filipinos in Japan, Australia, and Italy to use GCas...

Mar222023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Congress designates prayer room for Muslim members, employees for duration of Ramadan

Government, Muslim Mindanao, Politics, Society

For the very first time in the history of the chamber, a prayer room for Muslim members, employees, and even guests of the House of Representatives has been designated and opened in time for the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Conference Room 6 in the Ramon V. Mitra Building has been set aside and designated as a Muslim prayer room starting Tuesday and until the end of Ramadan next month. The simple opening ceremonies was prepared by the House Committee on Muslim Affairs led by its chair Rep. Khalid Dimaporo and vice chair Rep. Bai Dimple Mastura. Mastura, representative of Maguindanao and Cotabato City’s 1st District, personally made the request for the prayer room to the Speaker in the plenary on the sidelines of the approval on third reading of the P5.268-trilli...

Mar212023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Hulak Cafe at Subida CDO aka the cafe owned by Mark Bautista and family

Business, Cafe, Cagayan de Oro City, Food, Mindanaoan Artists, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Personalities, Society

Let's face it. When people find out that a celebrity owns a certain business, people have the tendency to flock to it and patronize it. That means publicity, strong recall and of course, strong sales. Great! Unfortunately, this may also work the other way around especially if the products aren't good, the prices are way too expensive or if the business owners themselves don't exercise proper customer service. In the case of Hulak Cafe, however, a business owned by internationally renowned Kagay-anon singer, actor, host and theater actor Mark Bautista, they didn't disappoint! Located at the Subida Complex along the South Diversion Road in Taguanao, Hulak Cafe serves breakfast, mains, vegan-friendly breads, cakes, sandwiches, pastas, coffees and juices. It's a nice, cozy place where...

Feb212023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

foodpanda is first official online food delivery platform partner of NBA in the Philippines

Announcements, Food, Society, Sports, Technology

Here's some exciting news for basketball fans! The National Basketball Association (NBA) and foodpanda, a leading online quick commerce digital platform in Asia, has forged a marketing partnership that makes foodpanda the league’s first Official Online Food Delivery Platform Partner in the Philippines. And Mindanaoan was there to witness the formal announcement! The announcement was made Saturday, February 18, 2023, ahead of the 72nd NBA All-Star Game, which aired live in the Philippines across One Sports and NBA TV Philippines. NBA Philippines Senior Director of Global Marketing Partnerships Mae Dichupa and foodpanda Philippines Director for Growth Guilherme Porto made the announcement at an event at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City that featured a shooting contest for ...

Jan42023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Honored to be elected as the new CDO Bloggers President 2023

Advocacy, Announcements, Blogging, Features, Internet, LifeStyle, Media, Mindanaoan Artists, Mindanaoan Update, Musings, Personal, Personalities, Society

I'm very excited and humbled to share that I have been elected as the NEW PRESIDENT of the Cagayan de Oro Bloggers Network or CDO Bloggers, a 14-year old organization (yep, OG!) that's home to many award-winning and internationally-recognized bloggers, vloggers, influencers, social media practitioners and content creators. The election of officers/annual general membership meeting/Christmas party was held at The Cistern, Xavier Sports and Country Club, Masterson Avenue, Cagayan de Oro. I recommend the venue for small and intimate events, by the way! Here's the list of the 2023 CDO Bloggers Officers: President - Maria Irene Aserios of Mindanaoan.com - Mindanaoan Meets World VP for Membership - Chen Siwagan of Laag & More w/ Awesome ChenS VP for Events - Irene Dayo of...

Dec102022 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Seda Centrio has these awesome room and food packages for your Yuletide celebration

Cagayan de Oro City, Hotels, Mindanaoan Update, Society

Thinking of celebrating your Christmas and New Year at Seda Centrio Cagayan de Oro hotel? You're in for a treat! Seda Centrio is offering awesome food and hotel room packages for you and your loved ones that are guaranteed to elicit #TheBestFeelingsInTheWorld! Whether you want to go solo (self-care aficionados, hello there!), with a partner/significant other or with family and friends, you definitely have amazing choices that would fit your budget and schedule. They even have packages that include cinema passes at neighboring Ayala Malls Centrio! Check out the Seda CDO packages below: Call (088) 3238888 or send an email to [email protected] for inquiries and reservations. If you happen to book after the holiday season, you may want t...

Nov282022 by Mindanaoan Irene5 Comments

Teaching social media and digital marketing in 8 towns around Mindanao (during the pandemic!)

Advocacy, Blogging, Business, Education, Features, Internet, Media, Mindanao, Mindanaoan Update, Society, Technology

When the pandemic hit, we all know that the entrepreneurs were among those who got affected the most. Some businesses went to a screeching halt, some were forced to pivot just to survive and some tried to continue operations but with owners, very sadly, feeling they were running around like headless chickens. I should know because I heard numerous of these stories from business owners themselves. Yes, it was heartbreaking to listen to them but you know what? I still held on to that spark of optimism. I knew that somehow, each and every one of us can help these businesses. After all, you and I know very well that the success of just about anything never depends on the hands of only one man. Instead, it has always rested on the collective shoulders of many. I wanted to help esp...