mindanao blogger 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...

May152024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

LOOK: Power Mac Center opens first store in Bukidnon

Mindanaoan Update

Fellow Apple users, rejoice! Premier Apple partner Power Mac Center is expanding presence in the Mindanao region with the opening of its first ever store in Bukidnon! Located at the Ground Floor (by the main entrance) of Robinsons Place Valencia, the latest Power Mac Center Bukidnon store offers the widest range of Apple devices such as Macs, Macbooks, iPad Pro, iPad Air, Apple Watches, Apple accessories, and premium partner brands. Here's more good news - they currently offer irresistible discounts and promos so best to visit as soon as possible. They're open from 10 AM to 9 PM. You can also call the store (0917) 107 7812. Check out the photos taken at the Power Mac Center Bukidnon store below (follow me on Facebook also for more exclusive features!) Thanks for openin...

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...

Feb212024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanao Tour: Top 8 Destinations for Beach Lovers

Beauty, Camiguin, Davao City, Davao Del Norte, Dipolog, Mindanaoan Update, Sarangani, Surigao del Sur, Tangub City, Tawi Tawi, Tourism, Travel

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Mindanao Tour, showcasing the top 8 beach destinations that are essential inclusions in any Philippine tour package. These pristine locations offer a diverse array of experiences, from serene retreats to adventurous water sports, all set in the stunning natural beauty of the Philippines. Dako Island, Siargao Nestled in the surfing capital of the Philippines, Dako Island stands out with its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. A haven for both relaxation and water sports enthusiasts, the island offers an idyllic beach escape. Visitors can indulge in the simple island life, savoring fresh seafood and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Tandu Beach, Sulu Tandu Beach, a hidden gem in the archipelago of Sulu, is known for ...

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...

Jan162024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Globe partners with a Cebu biz club for immersive Sinulog 2024 experience

Advocacy, Business, Cebu City

Globe and the We Are Ayala Business Club - Cebu (WAABC-Cebu) have partnered to redefine the Sinulog 2024 experience, providing a platform for festival goers to pursue their passions in art, technology, music and gaming, bringing Globe Passion City to Cebu this week. Located at the Activity Center of Ayala Center Cebu, attendees can enjoy a variety of artistic pursuits from January 19 to 21, 2024. The event is happening under WAABC’s Bisayala, which starts January 16. Globe users will get to access Globe Passion City by making donations with their Globe Rewards via the GlobeOne app. Globe Passion City features the following: Art Mural Co-Lab, a communal mural painting activity Drip Studio, a creative space for figurine customization, and a Claw Machine gaming challenge...

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...

Nov72023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

This Mintal, Davao hitoan serves good ol’ deep fried crispy catfish

Davao City, Food, Reviews

It may look like a humble eatery from the outside but this hitoan in Mintal, Davao serves really delicious good ol' deep fried crispy catfish...and did I mention that the price is very affordable? Aside from the mouthwatering crispy catfish (hito), they also serve native chicken tinola and vegetable dishes and their bestselling buko-melon halo-halo but, of course, you come here for the hito. Trust me, with all the many vehicles parked outside Dendave Ihaw-Ihaw and Hitoan, they've already mastered the crispy deep fried catfish dish. For a kilo of already cooked hito (4 pieces), I only paid Php 310.00 (US $6). I don't know about you but to me that's a steal! We try to drop by Dendave hitoan Mintal whenever we travel from either Cagayan de Oro or Bukidnon to Davao or vice versa. Servi...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Jun192023 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

How to apply as GrabCar driver or operator in Iligan

Business, Consumer, Corporate, Iligan City, Jobs

Private hire car hailing service Grab will operate soon in Iligan City! And if you own your own vehicle and want to earn at your own schedule, you may want to apply as a GrabCar driver or operator. You can earn as much as Php 3,000 per day or Php 40,000 per month. GrabCar drivers also enjoy free accident insurance. Interested to apply? Don't forget to download the Grab app first and then check the following: 1. Check if Vehicle / Unit meets the requirements: Unit / Model should not be older than the year 2020 Unit / Model is a non-Honda Brand Unit / Model Vehicle Body Type should be either: Sedan, SUV, MPV / AUV 2. Comply the necessary documents: For Provisional Authority (PA) Requirements 1 Orange Folder for the Documents 4 Copies of Accomplished Verified Applica...

Jun192023 by Mindanaoan Irene3 Comments

How to apply as GrabCar driver or operator CDO

Business, Cagayan de Oro City, Corporate, Jobs, Mindanaoan Update

Private hire car hailing service Grab will again operate in Cagayan de Oro! And if you own your own vehicle and want to earn at your own schedule, you may want to apply as a GrabCar driver or operator. You can earn as much as Php 3,000 per day or Php 40,000 per month. GrabCar drivers also enjoy free accident insurance. Download the Grab app here Here's how you can apply: 1. Check if Vehicle / Unit meets the requirements: Unit / Model should not be older than the year 2020 Unit / Model is a non-Honda Brand Unit / Model Vehicle Body Type should be either: Sedan, SUV, MPV / AUV 2. Comply the necessary documents: For PA Requirements 1 Orange Folder for the Documents 4 Copies of Accomplished Verified Application Form - APPLICATION FORM LINK HERE Governme...

May82023 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Mindanaoan.com continues to land on top Pinoy blogs by worth list

Blogging, Internet, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

Very grateful and absolutely excited to share with you all that this humble blog, Mindanaoan, has continuously landed on BlogMeterTop's top Philippine blogs lists. I think I last posted about this in 2020 but mind you, Mindanaoan.com has consistently landed on their awesome lists all through these years and I can't be more proud! Daghang salamat for all the support! This truly means a whole lot. For the April 2023 lists, Mindanaoan.com landed on the "Top" overall (among the top 50) and on "Travel and Leisure." (among the top 12) I also ranked pretty nicely overall. BlogmeterTop is a Web analytics service that tracks and reports website traffic for all Philippine blogsites. According to BlogmeterTop, they track the user’s activity on the site such as page visits and statistic...