Missing Wandering Days (Part 2)

With travel restrictions lifted and most countries (if not all) have opened their doors to tourists again, a lot of people are once again traveling. That said, it’s safe to say that we’re back to normal times.❤️ Ironically though, travel restrictions may have been lifted but my self-imposed travel ban is not, and not anytime soon at that. So reminiscing my previous travels and looking at pictures from those long time ago trips, will just have to do for now.

I guess the one thing that was nice during the pandemic was that travels were restricted. At least to me, I think it was the Universe’s way of empathizing with me on my self-imposed wandering/travel ban! 🥰❤️ So much so that I have to thank our dear Universe for it!🤪 Kidding aside, I do hope that one day, I’ll get to travel again and just be carefree (in every sense of the word).

Here’s a look back on some of my most memorable trips/travels, part 2! Hope you’ll enjoy these, as much as I had reminiscing them, and that these will encourage you to travel and go to these said places — if you haven’t been to them yet. 😊

Manila, Baguio, Tagaytay, Subic (2007)

This was a memorable trip for several reasons. Firstly, this was the first trip I’ve had with some of my high school besties, few years after we’ve joined the young professional group (slang: Yuppies) and also in time for Pam’s birthday. It was from this trip that Pam and I bought our first iPods. 😂 I remember, we were both too excited for the said purchase such that we pulled an all nighter to set it up and store songs in it for our succeeding days’ adventures and road trips.

Initially, I had second thoughts about this trip. On whether I should be pushing through or not. The reason being was that by end of the month (July 2007), I’ll officially be a professional bum. The company I was connected with at that time was up for dissolution. With the closure, there were a lot of “last” bonding activities scheduled with my colleagues that I won’t be able to attend because of this scheduled trip. Anyway, I was still glad I took this trip with the girls. Looking back, I think it was what I needed to reassess my career path and options, and a chance for me to reset.

In this trip, I was back in Baguio after several years. We stayed at our friend’s family condo near Burnham Park. We ate sweet corn on cobs like the locals and we’ve gone boating in the park. We tried the authentic Don Henrico’s at Session Road. We went to Mines View Park for a scenic view of the Cordillera Mountains and Benguet’s old copper and gold mines. I remembered we’ve visited the newly opened SM Baguio that time, and we were all amazed since the mall didn’t have an air conditioning system which makes a lot of sense.

We had a day trip in Tagaytay, where we visited Calereuga Church. We ate at Sonya’s Garden. We also tried the Starbucks store with a view of Taal Volcano. We also went to Subic, where we went to Ocean Adventure and of course Duty Free! (which was actually our purpose of going to Subic in the first place). 😜

Lastly, it was from this trip where we’ve literally stuffed ourselves full and sleep/nap a few minutes after with all the food lying open beside us in bed. In Bisaya we call this “sakit sa baboy” or “SSB”, an idiomatic expression. We were so lazy AF! But can’t say we were complaining! 🤣

Singapore (2008)

As we’ve fully immersed ourselves in the world of corporate “slavery” and adulthood, I had some of my high school besties relocate to Singapore. So it was normal for them to keep on inviting us over. It was also around this time that Cebu Pacific and Air Asia have started offering cheap international flights (piso sale) from Cebu and/or Manila. International flights and travels have never been more viable and cheap for ordinary folks, like me. Thus, it didn’t take me, Pam and Jib2x any further prodding to accept Anne, Aimee, and Niña’s invitation to come visit them.

This trip was memorable to me because, this is our first international trip with my high school buddies. This was also my first international trip after several years like a decade or so, and a trip I had with my friends and not with family. Another notable thing from this trip, Pam wasn’t able to go with us at the very last minute. Like she was already at the airport but she wasn’t allowed to go because her passport validity then was less than 6 months to expiration. This was a learning experience for all of us! We were sad she wasn’t able to join us. A few months after, she did went to Singapore (alone) and be with our friends.

In this trip, I was able to feed my “adventurous” me. Anne and I rode the G-MAX Reverse Bungy. We just decided to try it out, even though it’s just the 2 of us. Jib2x beg off, as she’s really the reserve one. I was curious and excited at the same time. In my mind, I thought, “how scary/thrilling can it be?” — oh how naive and innocent of me! I was surprised when they asked us to sign a waiver, an SOP for them. Of course I had to read it. I was laughing and joking about it, telling Jib2x that if something were to happen to me, please tell Mommy that I consented to this and that it was my own volition to ride this, nobody forced me! 🤣 Signing that waiver was supposed to be a sign, right? That this is scary/thrilling/exhilarating?! Anne and I just went on with it.

Anne and I got the package for 2 rides — slingshot/reverse bungy and extreme swing. We were then asked by the attendant, which ride should we take first? The easy one or the nerve-wracking one? Of course we said easy and then we were brought to the reverse bungy ride! He even had a countdown for us. So much for an easy ride, eh! We were already shouting at the top of our lungs, in less than a minute. I remember shouting bisaya expletives!!! and Mommy! 🤣🤣🤣 It was really a fun ride which I think I will ride again should I be asked. I felt that my soul literally separated from the body! 🤣🤣🤣 It was just sad because the video/cd that was part of our package got corrupted — there was no evidence that we rode it. However, it’s also a good thing since our faces and reactions during the ride weren’t recorded!

Sydney (2016)

I took this trip with my masters friends. We planned this trip ourselves, we didn’t get any travel agency apart from the visa processing. Tin got our tickets at a Cebu Pacific seat sale via Manila which was just Php 8,000+ round trip — a very good steal!

We stayed at a hostel within the city, with its own bathroom and shower, at a reasonable price and with complimentary continental breakfast. For us to save on the commute costs and just for the ease in traveling, we downloaded their Opal app.  It’s a public transportation app in Sydney.  It’s very convenient as you just have to use the app when paying for the fare for buses and trains.

This trip is memorable to me because, it’s the first time for me to go to Australia. A first for me to travel internationally with my masters friends (part of the Mandaue crew). Our plane roundtrip tickets were cheap considering this is an international destination, and a 7-hour flight at that. It was another winter trip for me. We scheduled our trip to Sydney during late August, so it’s winter that time. It was cold.

Another notable thing that happened in this trip was that I thought I wouldn’t be able to go on this trip. It’s because, the day before my scheduled Cebu to Manila flight, I had to take my Dad to the clinic. I can no longer recall what exactly happened that prompted me to bring him to the clinic, but I was advised by his doctor that if his results would not be good, we will have to admit him to the hospital. Mommy wasn’t in Cebu that time, it was just me, Dad, and his caregiver. If we were to admit him, it wouldn’t make sense for me to go on a trip, right? My conscience wouldn’t allow me to, given that I’m the only one left with him. But then, our good Lord has his plans. As it turns out, I was able to fly out. We met Mommy at the hotel she stayed at, for her PAMET event. As we’ve took the early morning flight, we have the whole day, like 7-8 hrs of waiting time for our flight to Sydney. We stayed in Mommy’s room to take a nap and wait out for our flight.

In this trip, I had my first experience on wine tasting. Apparently, you’re to spit out the wine during the tasting. But then, the “alcoholic” in us, chose to drink it all. 😂 Sorry wine connoisseurs.✌️ Australia’s wines are very tasty and smooth, especially their moscato. Tin, Ian, and myself really enjoyed this experience. Whenever you go to Australia, don’t skip the wine tasting! It’s an experience that you’ll definitely love.

This trip allowed me to see up close and personal kangaroos, dingos, koalas, wombats, and the Tasmanian devils. Kangaroos are a bit scary (to me, at least), especially the big ones as they go as tall as 6-7 feet using their tail as a leg that they stand on. They’ll knock you out for sure with 4 hands punching/beating you. I was able to see a joey going in/out of their mom’s pouch.  Koalas are really cute but they stink.  I wasn’t able to touch/carry them though, since the zoo we went to didn’t allow us to do so. All in all, this was a very good trip even though there were a lot of walking.

Ho Chi Minh, Bangkok, Cambodia (2016)

I’ve planned this trip to the last minute detail. Starting from the flights, itinerary, and hotel bookings. Mind you it wasn’t an easy task nor a process. It’s fun though because you get to own your time in the places, sites you go to. My researcher skills came in handy as well as my previous stint in the hospitality industry because I know where to look for reviews that matters.

In this trip, I took this with my Aunt Baby, cousin Eonie (Baby’s daughter), and Raymond (Eonie’s husband). Considering this trip is a tri-country/city one, we were able to budget properly and the total expense that we had was reasonable.

  • Saigon Skydeck
  • Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
  • Wat Pho
  • Damnoen Floating Market
  • Tomb Raider Angkor Wat tree
  • Angkor Wat

One thing very memorable in this trip, was my experience with Air Asia for our Cebu to Manila flight. I was so bummed to a point that I was speechless. When we were boarding the plane, the ground crew informed me that I can’t bring my hand carry luggage inside and that I need this to be checked-in. Firstly, my hand carry luggage is my usual hand carry that I bring with me for international flights. She told me that my luggage is not allowed because the plane was small and that it will not fit in the overhead bin. I argued, of course, since I measured/weighed that luggage in their measurement bin at the check-in counter. And I also checked once I was inside the plane, I’m sure my luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Anyway, to cut the long story short and to spare you from being irked, we had some heated conversation with that ground crew. Eventually her manager/supervisor intervened and suggested that they will keep my luggage in the front bin/shelf of the plane. See, that’s a reasonable solution compared to the previous one which was to check-in my luggage. 🤦🏻‍♀️ An eye-rolling moment, duh!

After that incident, the rest of the trip was a breeze! 💞 We visited a lot of sights, ate a lot of good food, drank good beers from these countries. One thing I’ve realized though when we were in Ho Chi Minh, is that it’s just like Philippines but it’s a place I would never consider driving. There’s just too many motorcycles and it seems they don’t have rules — scared the living daylights out of me! 😂 I’ll just walk, or ride a bus or motorcycle or their tuktuk.

For our Bangkok days, we feared that we might not be able to visit any of the temples or sights we’ve planned because it was during those times that their Prime Minister passed away. They had to close some tourist spots for mourning. We were still able to see the lying golden buddha though. So it wasn’t all for naught.

In Cambodia, there were several temples that I wasn’t allowed to enter as I was wearing shorts! 😁 I know, my bad. It’s just that it’s so hot and humid that I wasn’t able to think of wearing jeans. Ooops! Anyway, I was still able to enjoy the other temples and the sceneries.

Sagada, Banaue, Mt. Pinatubo (2017)

This is a trip I took with my family and some family friends. This trip was memorable to me primarily because my Mom and Dad weren’t with me in this trip when I know they would have enjoyed it. I was adopted by my Aunts and Uncles then. ♥️😛

In this trip, it was my Aunt who contacted the travel agency (that I can no longer recall what the name was). I was tasked by my Aunt to list down the sites/spots we’re going to see and our itinerary. We went spelunking, albeit the beginners level only. The mothers in the group went on another site as they’re afraid to try spelunking. Only the kids and the fathers. 🥰 In this trip I realized I don’t know how to climb up/down a cave just using your hands and legs through a rope (think like rock/wall climbing without the harness attached to you). I still came out in one piece though and all part of a fun experience.

Another realization for me and my cousins in this trip was that they will not leave me behind, especially during hikes to Mt. Pinatubo crater. They’ve learned that I’ll just fall or slide or what, not because I’m clumsy but because I’m flat footed. 🤣 They’ll help me up every time and they’ll know because I’ll just laugh. Since then on, I’ve been teased a lot by them but wouldn’t have it any other way though.

Another memorable thing in this trip was that we were scammed by the agency’s contact person in Sagada. They didn’t book a hotel for us and the drivers for the van rentals weren’t paid as well. We had to pool funds again for the van rentals. The good thing though was that it only happened in our first stop, Sagada. The rest of the trip was all too good, even though Mr Sun didn’t show himself in the Banaue sea of clouds.

Now all these reminiscing have made my feet itch! One day soon, I can travel again. I may have a self imposed travel ban, but know that my heart and mind is at peace and happy with that decision. In time, I know the Universe and our God will allow me to. Bye for now folks! Happy reading. ♥️

Choose your poison

With more restaurants and bars opening their doors again to the public, the “drunkard” in me is once again slowly rearing up its head. 🤭 I’m a responsible drinker so you need not worry. I’m not a lightweight either, body and booze (pun intended), so bring it on! 🤣🤪

I’ve been exposed to this kind of lifestyle and “vice” pretty early as my parents have worked in a famous Philippine beer manufacturing company for years up until their retirement. I, myself, have worked in the same beer manufacturing company as my parents for 2 years. I also came from a family of drinkers, whether light or hard alcoholic beverages. My parents trust me enough to handle my booze and so far I haven’t been that drunk — the type where you don’t remember anything after a night of drinking. 🤪 Responsible drinker, alright! Here are my type of poisons and where I usually get them in the metro:

Beer

I like my beer, super cold or below zero, so that I can’t taste the bitterness and it’ll just slide through my throat smoothly. In my yuppies years, I’d usually go for Red Horse and then later on, I opted for San Miguel Super Dry. As flavored beer was introduced, I’d go for the Lemon flavored one as it’s not too sweet and it wouldn’t make me think that I’m drinking a cough syrup. 🤣

Aside from San Miguel beers, I like Sapporo Beer too. I find Heineken beer a bit bland, so I usually don’t get this. I’d rather go for the Tiger beer though is there’s no other options available.

Beer is common here and we have a manufacturing plant too so you can get it almost everywhere — groceries, convenience stores, 7eleven, gasoline stations, etc.

Mojito

According to wikipedia, Mojito is a cocktail often consists of five ingredients: white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water, and mint. It has hints of sweetness, sourness, and minty flavors. So far, I like Friday’s version of it, especially that they have a bottomless one! It has the right balance of sweetness, citrus, sourness tones and the kick of rum. The price is just right at about Php 400 for bottomless.

Other recommended places with good mojitos for me are — Red Lizard and Maya.

Sangria

It’s a red wine with a blend of natural citrus fruit flavors. It has bits of apple, orange, lemon, some put pears as well. I like the Bar Pintxos version of Sangria. It is flavorful and a bit bigger in serving compared to other restos. It’s not too sweet too and you can still feel and taste the red wine. 👌

While you’re at it, pair this with their Gambas al Ajillo, served with bread. Very yummy! Or their Paella Mixta.

Amaretto Sour

Another cocktail which is made of Amaretto liqueur, lemon juice, egg yolk (for the foam), and simple syrup, garnished with dried orange slice.

So far I love Cur8’s Amaretto Sour. Next is Pukot Kitchen’s, Fiddler’s, and 1521. All other versions from different restos are so-so, something that I wouldn’t want to get when I do visit them. If you’re curious which restos, email me! 🤫

Negroni

Bar Pintxos also has a good Negroni. Cur8 and 1521’s versions are a tad bit too strong.

Negroni is a cocktail composed of gin, vermouth, and campari garnished with orange peel.

Korean Alcoholic Beverages

For soju, I like Jinros’ fresh chamisul, white grape, and grapefruit flavors the best. It goes perfectly with ramyeon and Korean fried chicken. ❤️ This has become a staple for me whenever I eat ramyeon or samgyupsal or Korean chicken, it balances the spiciness and the “vetsin” taste!

Another discovery is their Bokbunja (Black Raspberry Wine), picture on the right. While watching a Korean Variety show (Youn’s Stay) in the past, they offered this to their guests and I was curious if we have it here in Cebu and what it tastes like. I like raspberries and cranberries, so all the more that it made me want to try this wine out. I was finally able to get this in some Korean grocery stores. A bottle costs about Php 400. The taste is like red wine but sweeter and has a more cleaner taste.

Lastly, this was just introduced in the market pretty recently, Jack Daniels with Coke. It comes in bottles and cans. I’m so happy when this came out. I don’t usually go with whiskey as I just find it too strong, but with coke added, I’m able to drink it. This, readily available in the market, is just love! I wouldn’t have to mix anymore! 🥰

If I drink once or twice a week, does that make me a drunkard? Or perhaps an alcoholic? I’ve asked a friend once about this as I got a little bit alarmed of my drinking habits. Then she said that it’s ok, first step is knowing and if you don’t want to continue with such habit you can always stop. So then my realization is…..I’ll stop asking questions! 😂 Kidding!

Hope you’ve enjoyed my list. And when time permits, you go check those out and let me know what you think.

M.I.A

Hello, everyone! I hope that you’ve all been well, healthy, and fine. I know it has been a long, long while since I have blogged (2 years to be exact)! What a bummer!🤦🏻‍♀️ I know I’ve mentioned in the past that I should be more active and persistent in blogging and having contents here. But as you all know, life happens! Those 2 years was one crazy ride, so much so that I lost the sense of time to blog. There are just no appropriate words that best describe the situations and experiences I have been through. It was overwhelming, alright! I’d be honest, I had a hard time processing my thoughts and emotions.

In those 2 years, I was faced with company closure at #companyconfidential, my home for the last 9 years. I was faced with labor issues by my Dad’s caretakers because apparently I wasn’t a good employer to them. 🙄 Like, WHAT???? I know I’ve been a fair and good employer even to a point that they’ve abused my kindness. I so don’t deserve this kind of treatment from them. Talk about stressors! I’ve experienced one of the strongest typhoon (Super typhoon Rai; local name, Odette) to hit in Cebu to date, so strong that we didn’t have electricity, water, internet, and mobile signals for days. I’ve witnessed a neighbor’s house got burned down to the ground, just days after our internet services were back due to Odette’s devastation. I’ve tried my hand on an online cake/dessert business with my good friends. I’ve learned new technical skills as I transferred to Optum.

See, life happens! All these made me think that 2 years is a long time. So many things happened, and majority of those I have no control over. So, yeah! It is overwhelming. On the upside though, I still came out in 1 piece, stronger than ever, and that it’s not all bad days. 🥰

It’s good to be back! Will try to keep at this and not make excuses to not blog — it’s for my sanity and well-being! ❤️ Let’s do this!

Chinese Food Cravings

From time to time I get cravings that are too specific, and sometimes too weird — such a mystery! (I can’t for the life of me understand 🤪)

People close to me knows that I’m a foodie and that my opinions/critiques on everything food is pretty credible, considering I didn’t have formal training whatsoever. I’ve learned from the best, you see! 🥰 Apart from learning from my Mom, I think the Filipino food culture and my being a food “adventurer” both played its part.

Chinese food is one of those cuisines that I crave, no matter how heavy the umami taste feels afterwards. I wouldn’t say that it’s one of my comfort foods though, but close enough. Anyhow, here are my go to Chinese dishes and the restaurants where I usually get them, as cravings hit!

Dimsum

You’re not a true blue Cebuano if you don’t know and appreciate Habour City Dimsum House and Dimsum Break restaurants. These are Cebu’s homegrown dimsum places. They offer a variety of dimsum menu that would satisfy each one’s likes and feels. My usuals here are steamed fried rice, stuffed shrimp or shrimp toast, and quail’s egg siomai. I’d sometimes get a bola-bola siopao for take out too.

Steamed fried rice, is a fried rice topped with a rich, thick sauce with pork cut in small cubes. The rice and the topping are both prepared separately, and then placed in a bowl to serve. Before eating, you have to mix them all together making sure that every grain of rice is evenly coated with the rich sauce. Pro tip: always ask for extra sauce on the side (you should not skip this! 🥰), as this allows you to add the sauce little by little to your desired consistency. Over the years they’ve expanded the variety of their steamed fried rice offering. They now have beef and spicy variants. I believe this is that one product of theirs that sets them apart from their competitors. Other dimsum places don’t offer this, and if they do, the taste and consistency of the sauce is just not the same.

Should you crave way past midnight or into the wee hours of the morning, fear not as there are certain Dimsum Break restaurants that are open 24/7 and they’re also available in grab food and foodpanda for deliveries.

Sweet & Sour Pork

Another Chinese food staple in my list is the sweet & sour pork. It is medium sized cube cut pork, coated with light breading and deep fried until golden brown and crispy. This dish also comes with vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, pineapple chunks or tidbits, and red onions that are fried until tender or cooked through. All of these are then combined in a made ahead sweet & sour sauce, such that every piece is evenly coated with the yummy sauce.

My go to places for this dish, is either Master Po or Majestic restaurants. Like Dimsum Break and Habour City, both restaurants are also homegrown. I like their versions/take on this dish especially the sauce as it has the right balance of sweet & sour. Others tend to be more on the sweet or sour side. Also, the pork cubes have little to no pork fat included which are really cooked well, but still juicy and tender. What I love with both restaurants is that they don’t skimp on these veggies making it one legit restaurant quality, delish and yummy dish!

Shanghai Rolls

These are seasoned ground pork, wrapped in spring roll or egg roll wrapper and fried until golden brown and crispy. These are usually served with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or ketchup or sweet & sour sauce.

This can be eaten alone or paired with Chinese noodles, fried rice, or fried bread. These rolls are about an inch or two in size, and usually each serving has about 3 to 4 pieces of rolls. This dish may be ordinary but it hits the spot, just right! ❤️

I’d get this dish from Majestic Restaurant. Their à la carte is good for sharing between 2 to 3 persons. It’s restaurant quality with no overpowering smell of spices and seasoning. Other restaurants have that annoying smell and after taste, sometimes lasting for hours. You’ll feel it in your burp! Yikes!

Majestic’s Shanghai Rolls

Fried Rice

My Chinese food experience is complete when I have these fried rice to pair with my viands. As I’m a Filipino, an Asian, rice is a staple. 😛 Having rice in a meal just has a different sense of fullness, especially for Chinese cuisine.

My go to fried rice in Majestic is their Majestic Fried Rice (left picture) while at Master Po, it’s their Bagoong Fried Rice (right picture). Both restaurants’ Yangchow Fried Rice are also good, by the way.

I like my rice when it is not soggy. This happens with it’s being cooked with a little too much water. The rice from these restaurants are cooked well which makes their fried rice the best in town! It’s not oily and are seasoned just right making it good to pair with anything on the menu.

The majestic fried rice is loaded with ham and Chinese sausage bits, fried in just the right amount of oil. I especially love the smokey smell and taste of this fried rice. The bagoong fried rice is made of ground pork and bagoong or shrimp paste with lots of crunchy garlic bits. Shrimp paste has a distinct smell, especially when uncooked. However, at Master Po, the smell is not overpowering (it’s just a hint) in the fried rice. 👍 Oh so very delicious!

And that’s about it. My not exhaustive (not even close) list as I know that there are still a lot of Chinese dishes out there and other restaurants to try. Just sharing with you all my top picks. Do let me know what other Chinese dishes I should try out. Who knows, I just might include that on my list.

Hiring at the height of a Pandemic

In this unprecedented times, some might be in a position of looking for jobs. Whether it be for greener pastures or just wants to venture into another/different career path or perhaps simply out of job…whatever the case may be, it’s best to bear in mind that the same basic protocols when applying for a job of interest should still be adhered to.

Here at #companyconfidential we’ve been hiring for Data Research Analysts or Junior Data Analysts since late last year. It took us a lot of time and numerous screening interviews before we were able to get good candidates that we would like to hire and actually someone we would want to work with. This got me wondering as to why during this run it took us longer compared to past hirings we’ve done over the years. We didn’t change anything in our hiring process nor our job requirements.

I initially thought that the pandemic might have contributed to it. As all interviews are now virtual, thus gauging the personality of the candidate that fits well with the team is quite difficult. Even with cameras turned on during the interview, it’s still a bit hard. I also thought that maybe this time around our requirements were too strict that’s why in the screening process alone there were already a lot of potential candidates filtered out.

After all the pondering, I came to a conclusion that these weren’t the reasons why it was hard for us to hire. During the screening process there were a lot of resumes/applications we had to discard because it just didn’t fit our basic requirements. During the technical interviews, there were several of them coming to the interview unprepared. They haven’t done their research on what our company is all about, what the job description and requirements were — things like these. These are basic principles whenever we apply for a job, no matter what the medium of hiring is or the hiring process is. It is upon us, applicants, to come to the interview prepared and be professional.

Coming to the interview prepared shows great interest to the job applied for, which in itself already gives you a head start in getting the job. Being prepared also means that you respect the interviewers and their time in doing your interview. During the interview, it’s also best to be honest when answering questions. One can still be honest while marketing/selling oneself, right? 😊

Basic things that seems to be neglected. Makes me think if these were intentional? As we’re in a pandemic and they’re hoping that companies and interviewers are more likely to be lenient and forgiving of such mistakes? Or perhaps trying to appeal to the interviewers’ humane facet?

In any case, I still believe that these same standards when applying for a job of interest should be adhered to. These might be basic and old school but it definitely goes a long way such as landing that job. By the way, we’ve finally hired 2 Junior Analysts and they’ve been on the job for 3 to 4 months already and are a good fit to the team! Yey! ❤️

Mother’s Day

3 years ago, a day before Mother’s Day, we laid you to rest. Ever since, I don’t know how to celebrate Mother’s Day as it will always now remind me of our grief in losing you. It’s just never the same. Yes, I have Aunts and other second Mothers around, but they’re not you.

During this day in the past, we celebrate it by eating out, usually at a restaurant of your choice. I don’t give you flowers nor cakes as you’re not the type to like those kinds of gifts. There was that one time where I’ve gifted you with a facial. You were so happy and grateful then. Looking back, I should have gifted you more of that as you were so delighted by it. I forgot that my Mommy was “kikay”. Then again, you’ve always been simple and practical which makes it a little bit hard for us, especially those who know you well, to choose a gift for you.

Today is Mother’s Day, and once again I’m reminded of you and the very same day of 3 years ago. I’ve celebrated today with Aunty Dolor and their close family friends. I was shy at first because the introvert me was rearing its ugly head. I did end up enjoying my time with them anyway and I wasn’t able to think of anything else. I had cake orders for the Moms in that event. I’ve made them so nice and pretty that would have made you proud and post pictures of these on Facebook. Today, more than ever, I’ve missed you. I miss the eat out we usually do during this day, I miss that proud reaction of yours for the cake orders I’ve done, I miss all the food you make, I miss talking to you with just about anything (mundane and otherwise), I miss traveling with you, and I just miss bugging, hugging and kissing you extra on this day…

Indeed, it’s true what they say, there’s no fix time frame for grief. The grieving time and process differs from person to person. I think Daddy and I are still grieving in our own ways. Don’t worry though, in time it’ll be better and we’ll get use to this feeling. 🙂 Just continue to watch over us and guide us in everything that we do. Now that there are a lot of you there in heaven already, celebrate this day with the rest of the clan.

I’m posting a collage of your least favorite gifts to receive, if only to let me dream of you at least once. ❤️🙏 If only we can have video calls or phone calls there, it would have appeased our grief. But there’s none, so prayers and one sided talking with you will do for now.

The Year That Was

Hello folks! Happy New Year! Hope you all had a wonderful and memorable holiday season despite the negativities we’re all faced with. I sincerely apologize for being MIA these past couple of months. Life happened, you see! 😜 Anyway, I will try to be more persistent in posting contents this year! 🙏🙂

The year 2020 was anything but incredible. It has put the world at a stand still and everyone on their toes. Saying that the year was a good year, is such an understatement. Admittedly, I think there were some good things and experiences that have happened; little successes here and there. However, obtaining these successes were such an effort when normally it just comes easy and naturally. The year allowed most of us, if not all, to rethink how we face life and the very harsh realities of this new normal.

Looking back, the year has brought me tremendous learnings both in the professional and personal aspects of my colorful life. I have learned to be more mindful of my social responsibility so as to help protect myself, my family, and the people around me. I’ve learned and appreciated the value and gift of family, both near and far. I’ve learned that it’s okay to take things slow every once in a while so that a more sound decision/outcome happens.

The past year has opened my eyes to self care and self awareness. That it’s not being selfish, but rather it’s being responsible and respectful to yourself. It is loving yourself and that you owe yourself that much. As I’ve been holed up in the house for almost 24/7 in the past year, at some point my mental health took its toll even though I’m generally a homebody. It took me awhile to figure out how to handle my restlessness, anxiousness, and unease. I thought that I was just bored and haven’t adjusted well to the circumstances. Eventually, I’ve learned to cope. I started out rewarding myself even with small wins to keep me motivated and going. I binge watch series and movies on Netflix. I participated in online pilates classes with friends. I’ve learned to enhance my cooking skills. Slowly, I was able to get back to my old crazy and happy self. 😊

Professional wise, I was able to establish a working and effective routine which made me zone out all the unnecessary noise. Now establishing a routine from someone who dislikes routines and who happily embraces spontaneity, is actually a feat considering!

With working from home, I learned to manage my team remotely with ease. I’ve learned to appreciate our scheduled one on one sessions with the team to check up on them and talk with any topic that comes to mind. I’ve learned to trust my gut more, as well as my technical skills as I don’t have anyone beside me to tap on and ask for help during times when I want immediate, accurate results.

With the work from home set-up, I was able to validate my team’s awesomeness and cohesiveness. It has brought us more closer than ever even with the physical distance and not being able to see and argue with each other everyday. I’ve learned to value teamwork and knowledge transfers on a whole new different level. To be honest, it was awkward and a bit chaotic when we started out. However, eventually we were able to establish a rhythm that worked for us.

The past year might not have started and ended great the way we all would have wanted it to be. Nevertheless, I think I’m still in a good place in life. I’m still grateful for the learnings and experiences the past year has brought me. I’m not so sure yet though if I’d like to repeat them all again. Maybe in the next life?

In any case, I’m hopeful for a better year for all of us this time around. That we’ll be able to beat and conquer this pandemic soon so that all will be well. ❤️

Ramen Reviews

Here in the tropics, we only have 2 seasons — the wet and dry seasons. And since we’re nearing the end of the year (a cray 2020 to be descriptive), we’ve been experiencing rains for most days now. Don’t get me wrong, I love rainy days. I love the soothing and peaceful vibes that rainy days bring. It allows me, time to go on self reflection or catch-up on much needed sleep! ❤️

With rainy and cold days, slurping on comfort soup is always a good idea, if not a must-have. Growing up, soup is not one of my comfort foods nor was it on my list. During rainy days, I always find myself wanting to eat ice cream or drink smoothies/shakes! This is such a mystery to me up to this day! It was only recently, about 2 to 3 years, that I’ve come to appreciate ramens — both instant and legit ramens. A late bloomer, alright! 🙂

I admit, I have peculiar taste for food, in general. If there’s a hint of smell that I don’t like, I will not eat that. If in my head I can’t figure out the taste combinations of the ingredients, most of the time I will not eat that. Judgey, I know! 😛 I think, it’s because of this peculiarity that I’ve avoided ramens. I don’t like the taste and smell of miso, which most of the ramens here in Cebu have a soup base of. Looking back, I just haven’t scoured the city that well for me to know that there are other soup base for ramens that’s not miso! And in my defense, it was only recently that legit ramen bars are sprouting in the metro, since then I had a change of heart. Anyway, here are my go to ramen places in Cebu:

Ramen Yushoken

Located at G/F Oakridge Business Park, 880 A. S. Fortuna St, Mandaue City, 6014.

Ramen Yushoken first started out in Manila and it was only about 2 years since they’ve branched out here in Cebu. They’re the first Japanese restaurant that I’ve been to that don’t offer spoon and fork to their customers, instead they have this chopsticks for dummies. Their ramens are not for take out (to go), in fact, it’s their policy, since they believe that the taste would no longer be authentic or that there will be some slight taste alterations should these be taken outside the restaurant. This belief makes a lot sense, by the way.

All of their ramens are in pork broth soup base and very filling in every slurp. My go to orders here are the “shoyu” ramen and gyoza. So far, they have the best gyoza in town — tasty and has the right mix of crunchiness and softness. Shoyu ramen is soy sauce-based and it has a rich and flavorful soup. It comes with a slice of grilled pork belly. Their egg noodles has the right size and the taste and doneness combines well with the taste of the other ingredients.

One thing to note when you want to go to Yushoken is the waiting time to be seated. It’s always packed with diners and some are even lining up waiting for their turn to be seated. Either you go there after the lunch/dinner rush time or early enough or during the lunch/dinner rush time but make sure that you’re not too hungry yet to be able to wait. 🙂

So far, this is the best ramen for me. A bit pricey compared to other ramen places but it’s worth the price.

Hamakaze Ramen

A small, quaint ramen place located at AYS Building, A. S. Fortuna St, Mandaue City, 6014 Cebu.

Their ramens have a chicken soup-base. It’s still tasty and filling but not as rich and bold as Yushoken’s. A different take and twist to ramens, I guess.

The first time I’ve tried this place, I followed my bestie, Gail’s ramen order. Gail was actually the one who’ve introduced me to ramens and got me hooked to them. I’ve always known that she’s a foodie and so I trusted her taste.

We got the Tsukemen, it’s a cold ramen with toppings and the chicken collagen soup and dip are on the side. It’s not the usual ramen I’ve known and tried. I’m used to having both the soup and the noodles combined in one bowl. So this was really an experience for me. You have to put the cold noodles little by little into the soup and enjoy the ramen from there. I think this was their way of ensuring that the noodles don’t get soggy fast.

Apart from ramens they also have other items in their menu. I like their Tori Karaage and Ebi Tempura. They have gyoza too but I still love Yushoken’s gyoza.

The second time I’ve been here was just recently, about 2 months ago. They’ve just reopened for business and have been accepting dine-ins since the pandemic broke out. Again, I was with Gail. She’s a regular customer here and this is her favorite ramen so far.

This time around we ordered the Tori Paitan Syo-yu Ramen. I’ve explicitly told her to get me a ramen where the noodles and soup are in 1 bowl. 😂 The cold noodle was an experience but it’s something that I don’t like — given an option, I’d still go for the “vanilla” ramen. Sorry ramen snobs!

Price wise, they’re midrange for ramens and it’s right for the taste, size, and place.

Unlike Yushoken, Hamakaze don’t get to have customers lining up and waiting in line to be seated. Although there are times that the place gets packed, but one need not wait that long to be seated. Another thing to note, since the place is small and it’s along the road, there are only 2 parking slots available. Parking is a bit tough. However, during dinner time and nighttime, parking wouldn’t be that difficult as the other 2 parking slots from the bank (beside the place) could now be utilized.

Sachi Japanese Restaurant

Sachi has several branches in the metro. They are also offering a lot of items in their menu apart from ramen.

They’re known for their okonomiyaki and takoyaki. My go to orders here at Sachi would be Tonkotsu Ramen and Cheese Takoyaki.

The broth is on the lighter side even if it’s pork bone broth. It’s still filling but not as bold and rich as I want my ramen to be. Love their noodles, it’s on the skinnier/thinner side unlike Hamakaze. Their boiled egg is not as pretty as Yushoken’s. By pretty, I meant the yolk is not in a deeper yellow color and the doneness is more on the hard boiled side. I love hard boiled eggs but I want to eat them alone or with salt. With my ramen, I want to take them with the yolk that’s a bit runny and not well cooked. This is so, because I find that it’ll complement well with the broth of the ramen.

In terms of price, like Hamakaze, they’re also midrange.

Okinawa Heat

Like Sachi, they also a couple of branches in the city. I first got to try this place out in their newly opened branch in Ayala Central Bloc, IT Park.

What I like about this place is that they have set meal menus for their ramen that other ramen bars are not offering. To me, this sets them apart.

Their ramen is pretty decent. The broth is not as rich as Yushoken but bolder and cleaner than Sachi’s version. Their noodles is also on the skinnier/thinner side.

At Okinawa Heat, their ebi tempura is also tasty compared to other Japanese restaurants. Their tempura sauce though is not that savory that goes well with the tempura batter.

Their prices are what you would expect from Japanese cuisine. They’re also midrange and price is right for the taste and size.

Barikata Ramen Bar

They’re located at G/F Calyx Building West Geonzon Street IT park Lungsod ng Cebu PH, W Geonzon St, Cebu City, Cebu.

They have a wide variety of menu items and are also offering several set-menus and value meals. I think this is their way of catering to a more price conscious market and who’ve always had this notion that Japanese cuisine is pricey.

I don’t have a picture of their ramen, but this is one of my go to places in IT Park when I’m craving for ramen and ebi tempura. To me it’s like the next best thing to have when Yushoken is far from the office. 😂 I like their ramen. It also has that rich and bold taste as how I take my ramen. What’s unique at Barikata is the black pork bone broth soup base and their noodles. It’s the thinnest ramen noodles I’ve seen and tried — like angel hair pasta thin.

At Barikata, I’d usually order their Kuro ni Tamago ramen. It’s tonkotsu ramen with boiled egg. I’d also pair this with their ebi tempura and gyoza. Their ebi tempura also comes with prawn crackers which other restaurants are not offering. In terms of price, I think they’re the cheapest in the area if not they’re similar to that of Okinawa Heat’s prices.

There you have it folks! My list of go to ramen bars/places in Cebu. You might want to try them out should you be in town and are craving for a bowl of ramen. On a cold, gloomy and rainy day like today, a bowl of ramen is just comforting and a welcome binge. 🥰

Success at First Try

I got into baking by chance. My mother was a self-taught cook and baker, and during my younger years she would always let me help her in the kitchen. When I was capable enough to do things on my own, she implicitly turned over the baking and cake decorating responsibilities to me while she does the cooking of savory dishes, salads, and other desserts. She was the one who’ve nudged me towards that direction and to appreciate and embrace wholeheartedly such skill.

I’m like that most of the time. I don’t realize that I have certain capabilities, skills, talents until someone points them out to me. It’s not that I don’t know myself nor I’m underestimating myself, it’s just that the idea didn’t cross my mind. 🙂 That said, when I make things (whether cooking or baking), especially those made from scratch, and the output product is a success – it is always a big deal for me. Here are some of my first try success stories over the years.

Burnt Basque Cheesecake

This was one of the trending and viral food to make during the quarantine period. The recipe is simple and straightforward making it easy to do by any home baker/cook. And because it went viral, there are a lot of video tutorials on how to make it — all the more achievable.

What prompted me to make this, apart from it being viral, was because I’m also curious on how it’ll taste (burnt and no crust!). Don’t get me wrong, there are some food that I love when cooked burnt to some degree, but just not cheesecake. I’m also used to having crusts in cheesecakes which made me a little bit worried that the taste might be too creamy bordering to becoming unpleasant to my taste (luod in Bisaya). With crusts, it kind of neutralizes the creaminess that umay (Tagalog word) taste.

I researched for recipes and videos for me to get started in making this cheesecake. When I’ve found one that I feel is tasty, just by looking at the recipe, I then went into my kitchen to start the ball rolling.

This is one dessert that makes you practice the virtue of patience. Patience for not being able to taste it immediately. 😂 Baking time is for an hour and 15 minutes in high heat, then you need to chill this overnight before you can consume it.

When finally I was to taste test it, I was surprised to know that it wasn’t too creamy to be nakakaumay. It is soft, not bitter and not too sweet, it is cheesy and creamy but still tangy, as cheesecakes should. This is best eaten chilled and paired with a good cup of coffee, whether iced or hot.

Will definitely be making another one of this soon. 🥰

Binangkal

This is like a bread or doughnut just without the yeast, so no need for rising the dough. Once the dough is formed and good enough to roll or form into balls, sesame seeds are then coated on the balls. These balls are then fried, just like doughnuts.

This is a great snack to have, either paired with coffee or juice or soft drinks.

As the mood permits, when I next make this, I’m thinking of adding something inside like chocolate or cheese or ube jam. Just thinking about it seems delicious, thus I it might be a worthwhile product development endeavor.

Brookies

This one was a product development effort I’ve made together with our good friends from Yolk Coffee and Breakfast. They wanted me to create products for them to sell in their coffeeshop.

A brookie, is basically a brownie and chocolate chip cookie merged into one. Most recipes would call for stacking both cookie and brownie together in a pan. However, Chef Pepin of Yolk, wanted it to be in a different shape and that wants to taste and feel the cookie and brownie separately in every bite. Thus, the “yin yang” presentation of the brookie came to light.

Little did we know that other coffeeshops in Cebu would also make brookies in this shape and presentation. I’d like to say that we were trendsetters for this product! ❤️

Red Velvet Cookies

This is my take on red velvet cookies. I came across this recipe from Pinterest and instantly found it appealing. It’s different from what is currently available in the market which is 2 red velvet crinkles sandwiched with cream cheese filling. Honestly, I find that version a bit overrated and so-so.

With this version, the cookie is soft and the cream cheese filling is gooey. Imagine a cheesecake wrapped in cookie and rolled into balls. 😍

Next time I’m making this, I’ll try coating the cookies in powdered sugar, just to make it more visually appealing. Might be decreasing the sugar quantity though so as not to make it super sweet.

Spaghetti Carbonara

I’m very particular with my carbonara, from the smell down to the pasta’s doneness. I don’t like those that that tends to be on the sweet side (even for a bit of), or too creamy/wet, or too dry.

I love my carbonara with a smokey smell from the bacon and bacon fat. I just find that smell too appetizing and heavenly. I’ve been searching for that kind of carbonara all over town but to no avail.

There used to be one but the restaurant already closed, way before Covid. That was the closest or the next best thing to my Mom’s version of carbonara. Looking back, this was one pasta dish of Mommy that don’t get the same spotlight and attention compared to her lasagna. Maybe because Filipinos in general just like the red sauce based pasta, so she seldom makes this dish, making us crave for it.

With Mommy gone and inspired by her motto — “If you know how to eat, you should also know how to make it!“, I’ve been recreating her carbonara. Luckily, when I first made this, it was a success! For someone who has limited cooking abilities unlike Mommy, this was an achievement unlocked moment. 🙂 In the next times I’ve made this, I then put in “some signature of me” to make it my own version.

Tuna Casserole

This is one pasta dish that I’ve developed with no recipe to guide me and not even Mommy was able to make it like mine. My recipe came about when I was still in college. I had my group mates / friends over in the house and I don’t know what to serve them for lunch. I’ve made use of what’s available in the pantry then, tuna flakes in brine, mushroom, and cream. I’ve added some red bell pepper, garlic and red onions. Placed them all in a casserole and Tuna Casserole was born!

Over the years, I’ve played around with the recipe until I’ve achieved that desired taste and texture regardless of the pasta type used.

Supporting Local

With the pandemic at its peak, most of the businesses here in the Philippines, especially SMEs are struggling. Some are even forced to close down the business for good as bills are mounting continuously with no steady income flowing in. A lot of people lost their jobs and means of living, thereby creating more unemployment problems for the country.

There’s a quote that goes “When backed into a corner, there’s no other way but up” which I believe resonates with a lot of people during these trying times. In order to keep sane and at the same time generate income, people got creative and ingenious. They took this time to develop new skills or enhanced some of their skills — I guess that’s one silver lining in this difficult and stressful situation. Businesses also took this time to rethink of ways on how to operate the business without compromising their employees’ and customers’ safety.

With these skills, they then turn to social media to advertise and sell their products, whether it be a service or a physical product. From essential to non-essential goods, we can find them all online and have them delivered at the comfort of our homes. This platform is not only convenient but also safer for us as this lessens our exposure to the unseen virus. Never have online selling been more rampant, inexpensive and achievable by the mass public. One need not have a website or a clear cut logistic system or even a robust marketing strategy; all that’s needed is just an affordable product/service and a Facebook or Instagram account to start selling online and making legitimate income.

It’s in times like these wherein we are encouraged to help and support each other, whether for safety reasons (wearing of face masks and face shields whenever we’re out) and/or patronizing offered products. Supporting them like buying their products and services will definitely go a long way. That said, here are my favored online local sellers, as they are all close to my heart. This is not a paid advertisement in any way, but if you do buy from them, I’ll definitely mean a lot to me. 🙂 Si Lord na bahala sa inyo. ❤️

They are a neighborhood barbecue joint and grills mostly on Saturdays from 4pm to 6pm. They are selling select and personalized grilled menu. What I like about their offerings is that the menu is not overwhelming for us when choosing what to order, aside from these being delicious too. 🙂 They deliver through Lalamove and Grab to wherever in Cebu.

Menu:

  • streetside pork barbecue
  • pork belly
  • isaw
  • chorizo
  • hotdog
  • cheesy scallops (I highly recommend this!)
  • tuna panga

You may reach them at Facebook, messenger and instagram @iebistro

They are 2 girl friends wanting to dominate the fish market industry by tsunami! 😂 Sorry ladies, you know I love you both, right?!

Lucky Mermaids supply fresh fish and other seafood such as scallops, squid, and crabs. All of these are available for delivery in Cebu via Lalamove and Maxim. They also have pa-luto seafood menu good for 3-4 persons, which is subject to availability like the fresh fish and seafood too. Fresh bounties of the sea are pre-ordered by Wednesdays and deliveries every Saturdays and Sundays.

Here’s their latest price list:

grabbed from their Facebook page
grabbed from their Facebook page
grabbed from their Facebook page

You may reach them through Facebook (@luckymermaids)

It started out as a skill that Ms. D (Diann) wanted to develop at the start of this pandemic. Although, she has always been a foodie so enhancing her cooking and baking skills is literally just a piece of cake. 🙂

She first introduced pastillas in different flavors, fillings, and coating. Then expanded into kakanin (puto flan and puto cheese) and breads. One thing to note, as baking these would take time, you need to pre-order your sweets and things. Definitely you’re guaranteed of its freshness. Ms. D delivers via Maxim, Grab, Lalamove and Angkas.

Pricelist (Pre-order – need to order in advance – at least 1 day lead time):

  • 🍞Cream Cheese Garlic Bread (130g each)
    • Box of 2 – P150.00 ONLY
    • Box of 4 – P300.00 ONLY
  • 🍪 Chocolate Chunk Cookie
    • P70.00 ONLY(3pcs)
    • P120.00 ONLY(6pcs)
    • P240.00 ONLY (12pcs)
  • 🥖 Bread Roll with Cheese (Sugar or Milk Coated) – P45.00 ONLY (3pcs)
  • 🍩 Mini Milky Donuts – P70.00 ONLY (20pcs)
  • 🍩🧀 Mini Milk Cheese Donuts – P80.00 ONLY (20pcs)
  • 🍰Chocomoist Cake – P100.00 only (your choice of toppings choco chips/choco sprinkles/colores sprinkles)
  • 🧀Cheesy Puto – 1 tub (8 pcs) – P80.00 only
  • 🍮Puto Flan – 1 tub(6 pcs) – P60.00 only
  • 🧊Coffee Jelly 500ml -Php 100.00 only
  • 🥭Mango Tapioca 330ml – Php 50.00 only (SOLD OUT)
  • 🍃Chia Seeds 100 grams – P100.00 only
  • Juan Calamansi(powder) – Php 160.00 per box ONLY (24 sachets)
  • 🍬 DIY PastillasBig Tub (12 pcs) – P60.00 big tub
  • 🍭Flavors:
    • Plain
    • Buko Pandan
    • Mango
    • Strawberry
  • 🍭Fillings:
    • Marshmallow
    • Chocolate chips
    • Cheese
    • Marshmallow and chocolate chips
  • 🍭Coating:
    • Sugar
    • Chocolate sprinkles
    • Colored sprinkles (pink, red, blue, green, yellow, mix)

You can reach Ms. D at Facebook (Ms. D – Sweet’n Things) and My Food Merkado (MFM).

Same founder/owner for Amaris Catering Services, Chef Alex didn’t realize that his calling was in the kitchen not until after a few years of selling San Miguel products. Backed by his selling skills he put up this small businesses from ground up and has now become one of the trusted catering services by some event coordination services here in Cebu.

They have a pop up store at the entrance of Dona Rosario Village where they’re offering our favorite childhood snacks, meals, and sweets. Free delivery within the village premises. They can also be found in food panda with select menu good for sharing.

grabbed from Facebook

Chef Alex can be reached though Facebook (Ferdinand Alex Montelibano) and Instagram (@chefalex.kitchen) for your catering needs.