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

Feb22025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Must-visit: Hanamaruken Ramen Cebu

From Osaka to Cebu! Hanamaruken Ramen is in the Queen City of the South! From Osaka, Japan to Cebu, this home of the famous melt-in-your-mouth soft bone pork rib ramen is spreading awesome joy and flavors! Went to Streetscape in Banilad, Cebu to experience their authentic Japanese dining experience. We had the Signature Happiness Ramen, the Arakawa Special and the ebi tempura. Sooo good! For me, the Arakawa Special had a sharper taste. It’s shoyu tonkotsu broth topped with kakuni, a quarter portion of slow-braised soft bone pork rib, negi and naruto. Meanwhile, the Happiness Signature Ramen was also good and was definitely true to its name! It’s shoyu tonkotsu broth topped with a half portion of slow-braised soft bone pork rib, negi and naruto. The ebi tempura was crispy and d...

Feb12025 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Malatang Sichuan cuisine at Yang Hero IT Park Cebu

Cebu City, Food, Mindanaoan Update

Malatang for dinner is always a great idea Lami kaayo! My partner and I had a great time at Yang Hero, located along the Garden Row of Ayala Central Bloc, Cebu IT Park Yang Hero Cebu serves delicious Sichuan cuisine. My dinner companion and I had both the Chinese and BBQ buns to start, he had braised beef (it came with free soup also) and then we shared our malatang, which mostly had seafood, with basic broth. If you’re a fan of spicy food, choose the sichuan broth. Another option is the tomato-based one. Basically, you can choose from over 30 ingredients that you can place in your malatang! Aside from seafood, we also included veggies, tofu (yum!), scallops, seaweed and fungi (yup you read that right haha!) Service was OK. We had to wait for several minutes for our table to be re...

Dec252024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

CDO barangay captain Kikang Uy grants kids’ wishes to watch Euro Xtreme Circus

Blogging, Cagayan de Oro City, Commentary, Entertainment, Events, Features, Government, Mindanaoan Update, Society

For several weeks, Cagayan de Oro was alive with joy and excitement as world-class Euro Xtreme Circus captivated audiences with thrilling stunts and breathtaking acts from Europe and America. Euro Xtreme Circus CDO ran until December 1, 2024, and the world-class show promised a memorable experience for everyone. Naturally, it was a lot of children's wish to watch the circus live. Recently, 40 preschoolers from Barangay Carmen enjoyed this spectacle, thanks to the generosity of Barangay Carmen Captain Joaquin “Kikang” Uy. Accompanied by their parents and teacher, Ms. Chona, the children experienced awe-inspiring acrobatics, thrilling stunts, and vibrant performances— all of them for the very first time. Kap. Kikang’s thoughtful gesture highlights his dedication to enriching the lives ...

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 Su...

Sep192024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

Invest in a condo in Caraga: Soleia by Vista Manors, a Frontrunner

Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Caraga, Features, Mindanaoan Update

Sitting in the region of spirits folk, the vast lands of Butuan City in Agusan del Norte are some of the oldest settlements in the Philippines, with history, culture, and arts tracing back to the fourth century. A first-class, highly urbanized city in Region Xll that evolved from an ancient trading site, Butuan stretches across the Agusan River, the widest, deepest, and longest navigable river in Mindanao. The city is rife with archeological finds on display at the Butuan Regional Museum, including stoneware, metal crafts, wood crafts, pottery, gold smithing, burial coffins, and other archeological treasures pointing to Butuan's prehistoric existence and rich cultural heritage. Caraga, where Butuan City is located, comes from Kalagan, the original language of the peop...

Aug282024 by Mindanaoan Irene1 Comment

Helping Mindanao electric cooperatives navigate social media, address online bashing and crisis and foster community engagement

Advocacy, BIMP-EAGA, Blogging, Consumer, Corporate, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Internet, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

In Mindanao, blackouts occur, on average, no less than 10 times per month. More often than not, these blackouts also last for a very long time - sometimes, for hours on end! Needless to say, this is extremely exasperating because not only are households affected but businesses as well. Customers get really irate and the tendency is that they turn to social media and express their anger and disappointment towards the Mindanao electric cooperatives that are expected to provide reliable power to the communities. People post not only complaints online but memes, harsh words and even threats! Electric cooperatives or ECs, on the other hand, fully acknowledge the fact that they need to learn how to address the crisis situations fast. They understand that in this age of social media, they sho...

Aug162024 by Mindanaoan IreneNo Comments

This Filipina is fake, but her stories are real

Advocacy, Mindanaoan Update, Technology

Huwag na nating pagusapan ‘yan. Filipinos have a reputation for sweeping everything under a rug. Call it moral shame, or call it fear, the norm dictates bottling up and carrying on—no matter what the situation. The consequences of such an attitude is staggering. It is not surprising that according to a 2022 Philippine National Survey, roughly 17.5% of women aged 15-49 has experienced violence at the hands of their current or most recent spouses or partners. In a society based on faith and borne of strict societal mores, victims find silence and anonymity to be the only recourse. Fear, normalized violence at home, and victim blaming stop women from talking about their abuse and allow their experience to go unreported. So, how can we act on something that does not exist? Yes, stories c...

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 anno...

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 travelers...

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 testim...

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 (!!!), collabo...

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 thi...

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 i...

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: Vendors...

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 S...

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....

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 Offsh...

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 and...

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 rememb...

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. Servic...