For those of you who know and also very familiar with Sex and The City (SATC), you are probably a tita like me already or at the very least your age isn’t in the calendar dates anymore.
I’ve seen SATC quite a few times, I finished all six seasons about five times already. When I was in high school, I used to watch some of its episodes via Studio 23 (Studio 23?!) — for those of you who haven’t known, Studio 23 is a young adult-oriented network owned and operated by ABS-CBN — do you Senator Bam Aquino, Atom Araullo, Patty Laurel, and Bianca Gonzales? Yep, they were on Breakfast. Remember Y Speak? I can go on and on, but perhaps this is for another time.
Back to SATC. My favorite character is Samantha (Kim Catrall)! Of course, the fearless, sophisticated, and YOLO Samantha. But I think their personalities and life statures are complementing with one another — the romantic and believer of all love and romance, Charlotte (Kristin Davis), Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) a tough lawyer but believer of all things true, maybe a realist?, and Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), the writer and the fashion icon.
In highschool and towards college, my dream is to have a group of girlfriends just like of in SATC. Hehe of course, life’s not like the ones we see in the films.
I got hooked to the hoola boola of Carrie and Big, Carrie’s story (perhaps a part of this website was inspired on how Carrie does it for her column), and the rest of the girls’ lovelives. How nice to be in a big city finding love, friendship, and just having fun, and so much of it!
We did not have subscription services to watch TV series in the day, that’s why recent times did us good and at an advantage because we can watch films and TV shows at our own pace.
I have subscribed to HBO Max because of Friends (another story) and And Just Like That… (AJLT) – the sequel to the SATC. It was very exciting to see characters moved on with their lives and watch them in a new light. It was good, until…
I was so confused why there is a sudden shift on Miranda’s character, but I get it also that the show has to be move inclusive and progressive as this isn’t the 90s and early 2000s anymore. I like the consistency of Charlotte and Harry with their kids all grown up and with relatable and realistic family challenges. Of course, Seema is a good addition, with all her wit and character, and Lisa, too. They were good replacements to Samantha. But, Carrie and Aidan’s love story still didn’t work out despite the years apart, and even with a new home. It was sad to see them grown older and still confronted of relationship issues.
Overall, it could still be better, but I was so surprised of its sudden discontinuance. According to the internet, it got discontinued because of low viewership and high production costs. I felt like some of the viewers are expecting that it will be light and fun like SATC, but AJLT lean more on the serious stuff. It had a nice first season, though.
A short work trip to Bacolod — full of work, but also so food.
It wasn’t my first time in Bacolod, but it always a good experience still. This is a short trip for work, but at least was able to try some good food with colleagues after work and during lunch break with some of our officials.
Bacolod Chicken Inasal
A must-try if you are in Bacolod City! One of the things Bacolod is known for. It is best paired, of cours, with Chicken Oil and of course, Cansi (not in photo as I forgot to take).
Bacolod Batchoy
The best batchoy is debatable, I know, I know. But this one’s from 21 Bar & Restaurant is the best for me. This Special Batchoy only costs ₱180, also good for sharing if you do not have a big appetite.
Bacolod Cakes
Calea Pastries & Coffee is a go-to cakeshop in the City of Smiles. Good food in very affordable price points! They have a full array of cakes and pastries to choose from.
Calea’a best-seller is the Chocolate Mud Pie. I ordered this Frozen Mango Chiffon cake—not too sweet, good for a tita like me. After Batchoy, at 21 Bar & Restaurant, this should be the next stop.
Of course, seafood!
Gina’s Seafood Restaurant has value for money especially if you are traveling in groups. If you are familiar with Dampa, this is a bit similar. You’ll choose your preferred seafood and have it cooked the way you like ‘em.
Purple Cake
Everything purple at Purple Cake! Located at the new SM Bacolod North Block, Purple Cake is one of the best desserts I tried! It gives a unique vibe from our often consumed cakes in the Metro. Each day passes, I prefer ube cake more and more. 😅
Lechoneria specialties. Lechoneria also has some branches in Metro Manila. Too many sinful food for my last day in Bacolod. And to top it all of,
A quiet merienda vibes at the Palm Veranda before the flight back to the hustle and bustle of Manila. This chocolate cake is good—moist and flavorful for its price—and we only thought that it’s just a slice we’re getting.
I share these photos and experiences to my family and I cannot wait to go back again, this time, hopefully, with the whole fambam! ✨
Explore Chinatown’s history through Chinatown Museum.
My maternal grandparents were hailed from Manila. My late grandfather, Papa, as we call him Luis A. Lim, a master electrician, had several clients in the said city. Since I grew up with my grandparents, they take me wherever they are. One remarkable one for me was the Gocheco Building in Binondo. I was maybe five or six years old when he started bringing me to Gocheco where my ninangs are (who are pure Chinese and Chinese-Filipino or Chinoy), and we often attend the building administrators’ Christmas Parties, Chinese New Year parties, and many other gatherings. Once or twice a week, Papa would take me to Gocheco and I would play with his colleagues there or other friendly residents while he checked electric wires and other sections of the building that needed tending to.
Since we usually commute (this was probably before the owner-type jeep of Papa), I was exposed to walking along the streets of Binondo, Tondo/Abad Santos, and Sta. Cruz, Manila. All credit to Papa for making sure I become street-smart, especially growing up. While my grandparents grew up and studied in Manila, Papa already bought land in Valenzuela (where I was born and raised) during his years of being an OFW in Saudi.
Sidenote: If you can imagine an OFW wearing a maong or denim jacket, gold necklaces, gold rings, a Seiko watch, with matching Ray-Ban eyeglasses, that’s how Papa was once. Hehehe.
But he continued other electrician-related jobs in Manila since he already built his network before he officially went full-time at the Quad Alpha Centrum Building in Mandaluyong as a Building Administrator for 20 or so years until he retired at age 65 and became a consultant until age 72. My memories in Gocheco and the streets of Binondo weren’t as vivid as the ones I have in Valenzuela and Laguna (where I also lived and studied for 2 academic years) but I have become more familiar with the streets of Manila and its history when I attended college at the Far Eastern University (FEU) in the 2000s and when I started working in the same city and transferred residence permanently in 2014.
A decade since then, living in Manila has been a delightful experience for me. It’s near everything. If you are like me who was from quite far north of the Metro, you know that it is a bit challenging if public transport is not available or accessible. You also need to travel far to get access to good hospitals, malls, and other amusement parks, and other specialty stores; hence, in another story, the reason why I am proud of how Valenzuela City has become now—it has been developed to be one of the nicest cities to live in Metro Manila. I found myself enjoying Manila more since it has many great places to visit like the National Museum, the National Library, Intramuros and Fort Santiago, the Metropolitan Theater, Luneta, and many others. I have always liked exploring museums since I am keen on knowing history. I’ve read so many history books and even banned books about the lives of people, cultures, and other related materials. I have always been fascinated by the works of Ambeth Ocampo, Nick Joaquin, Leon Ma. Guerrero, and other historians, novelists, and authors.
Of course, I am one of those who research the famous streets of Manila, their history, and other stories enveloping them. Hence, it was a great experience for me that we were able to explore Chinatown, through the Chinatown Museum, which we have learned that we are still part or resided in even though we are not in Binondo per see.
Map of Chinatown, Manila
According to the friendly museum tour guide, Kuya Rey, who by the way also great at taking photographs, this map depicts the whole of Chinatown. Nowadays, we only believe that Binondo = Chinatown. So, whether you are from Tondo, San Nicolas, or Sta. Cruz, and Quiapo, you belong to Chinatown, Manila.
We also saw some remarkable stores in the town, especially during the 1800s and the early 1900s since Manila was the center of trade and commerce. They are incredibly educational especially if you have children below 10 years old as they can also see and explore other old/vintage items that Filipinos used in the past like typewriters, flat iron, ceramics, stereograph (which my son believes it’s an old VR-like tool), old Chinese-Filipino newspapers, telephone, radio, and other essential household items.
Tobacco Factories / Tobacco of Historical Chinatown Manila
It was a great sight to see the collections and other galleries that depict the old Chinatown. It takes you back to how it was before and how rich the history of old Manila was.
Depiction of Tobacco Factories and Rum Distillery in Chinatown, Manila
Depiction of old Panaderia (Bakery) showcasing hopia, siopao, mooncake, etc. in the old Chinatown, Manila
The old Polland Hopia Factory
It was kind of nostalgic to see displays and other delicacies that we also enjoy today like Polland Hopia. It was extra delightful to know that we were all able to survive the pandemic, may it be the business or the people.
Tranvias de Manila
We were surprised to discover what public transportation in Manila was like before. We still see kalesa in Luneta and Intramuros these days but this tram or Tranvias de Manila is a first for us to see and it can carry at least 20 people (sampuan like a jeep). Nice to see how our public transportation has grown and eventually got stuck. Charot! According to Chinatown Museum, many of the trams were destroyed in World War II (WWII). Instead of rehabilitating, the trams were replaced by other modes of transportation like the jeepneys we still have today.
There is just so much more you can discover in the Chinatown Museum, take time to also read the information given in the collections and galleries. Your friendly tour guides like Kuya Rey can give you more details, especially about the items in the available collections. Through him, we were able to see that the vintage typewriter is still working, and its ribbon hasn’t been changed since 1945! He also let us try the stereograph and see its wonder; we were also able to smell herbs and spices like the cinnamon harvested in 2019 versus the one in 1910. Amazing how the aroma of the latter is stronger than the one from five years ago. Do not touch or try the items without proper guidance or authorized personnel.
Tickets are available on-site:
Regular: Php 150.00
Senior Citizen or PWD: Php 120.00
Student: Php 100.00
The mode of payment can be through Cash or GCash (I’m not sure if they accept Credit/Debit Card payments). The Chinatown Museum is located at the 4/F Imperial Wing, Lucky Chinatown, Reina Regente Street, Binondo, Manila.
Like a good book, video games can take you to different adventures where you are in control but with concrete challenges, too. Try and try, because just like in real life, there are villains there, as well. 😉
My first introduction to video games was, of course, the family computer—a classic thing in a somehow privileged household —and growing up with uncles and aunts who were professionals and a parent who was abroad. And then there was PlayStation (PS), the PS1, Game Boy (Classic) the Dreamcast, Nintendo SNES, Wii, PS2, and the PC. My late uncle owned that many—always into something new on the gaming front, but my first-ever owned game console was a Game Boy Color Pikachu edition—exactly like this photo below.
I couldn’t remember if I was 9 or 10 years old when my dad gave us our own Game Boy Color (my kuya got the purple Game Boy Color—he was so kind and understanding as a kid, and more so an adult if I may say, he let me have the Pikachu edition). We used to watch Pokemon every night (there was a time it was shown every night at 7:00 PM, I think on GMA 7, Cyborg Kuro-chan, and Crayon Shin-chan on ABC 5, if my memory serves me correctly).
Usual Game Boy has many games you can choose from—I played Hercules, Smurfs, Mega Man Xtreme, Bomberman Quest, and of course, Pokemon. I have managed to finish Pokemon Gold and Silver, the Crystal Version, the Blue Version, and the Red Version (the Yellow version I am not so sure if I was able to finish). Going back to PS1, since this was one of the consoles we played as kids (and we quarrel the most about with my cousins), we usually played Bust-A-Move, Sonic, Metal Slug, Crash Bandicoot, Pepsiman, Spyro the Dragon, Gran Turismo, Tekken, Need for Speed, and Street Fighter. Looking back, it was fun—of course, unlike most kids today, all these video games are by schedule; most of the time, I read and play with my cousins outdoors (P.S. I had no other playmates growing up except my cousins as I was painfully shy as a kid—and an adult, too, but due to college training and an extroverted career path, I was able to overcome shyness, most of it).
In High School, all the way to college, I became aware of the furthering tech in gaming—PC-based games like Audition, O2Jam, StarCraft, Dota, Counter Strike, and Left 4 Dead, to name a few ones I have tried. Graphics became better, game plays were more precise, innovative controls, and well-thought-out game plots. If we were schoolmates or batchmates in college, I think you’d be able to resonate with how Morayta has changed from having so many computer shops around to random inuman establishments, and now coffee shops. I make it a point to pass by at least once a week to—wala lang, feel the air maybe, and take you back to that nostalgia of when life was so much simpler. Hehe.
Fast forward to the present, one thing that made adulting fun for me is now I can buy games I want with 30% less overthinking. I am used to living alone and, often, since I don’t like going out or traveling much (I have traveled enough to various places in and out of the country to know that I don’t like traveling and that I’d rather stay home hehe), my days were filled with three things: 1) books, 2) video games, and 3) TV series/film. I didn’t own another game console after my Game Boy Color until the pandemic came, I usually play via mobile—simulation games mostly and not so much RPG. Nintendo Switch elevates the experience for me (I like it more than the PS4, as I reflect on it most of the time, probably because of its portability). For a while, like a looooong while, I only played Animal Crossing—there was a good enough reason why it was so hyped, okay?! I usually play the same simulation/farming, and demure games, because they decompress and de-stress me (hindi yata talaga ako pang Final Fantasy kinakabahan ako kapag it’s go time hahaha). PC is also a trusted source of entertainment, I can live without television but not a computer (but I remember I owned an LCD LG TV where I saved movies in a USB flash drive plug it on that TV, and binge-watch TV series and movies).
From Animal Crossing, I also entertained the thought of Asphalt 9 and got hooked. I was quarantined a couple of times during the pandemic (although I didn’t experience being positive for the virus) and Asphalt was a source of joy hehe aside from the other novels I read in isolation. I am not a big gamer myself—big here means the streamer-kind with streamer-rich games like Valorant, Mobile Legends, and the like, but if you just want to be entertained and have an outlet after a stressful day, here are some (mostly demure and cozy) games I currently play that you may want to try too:
Animal Crossing. There is something to the hype of this game that you may try. It is very cozy and cute! Though it is only available on Switch.
Asphalt. Any Asphalt version is okay. I played (and still play from time to time) Asphalt 9 for quite a long time lalo nung pandemic. Maganda na ‘yung Chevrolet Camaro ko diyan, upgraded na. Hehe. Available on Steam and Switch (I guess pati sa PS).
Story of Seasons: Olive Town. I bought this quite recently because I was able to exhaust all things to be upgraded and be done in Animal Crossing. It is a very relaxing game and you’d know more about farming. Hehe. I play this via Switch, I am not just sure if available sa PS4 like Harvest Moon (which is now available via mobile—Android and iOS, it is not free though, around PHP1,000).
Pokemon: Let’s Go Pikachu. I bought this one too quite recently, natapos ko na, pero hindi siya madali haha, typical Pokemon game where you battle and collect Pokemons, the graphics are so good and the animations are way better than previous versions. There are so many versions of Pokemon already, ito ‘yung kinuha ko na version kasi I know most, if not all Pokemon here. Doon sa mga bago hindi ko na kabisado, hindi ko na kilala. Parang nung nagpunta rin ako sa Japan this year, most displays bagong Pokemons na. Si Pikachu, Eevee, Squirtle nalang yata ‘yung familiar ako doon sa showcased.
NBA2K. Available on PS, Switch, and PC. My main advice is if you are to play via your PC or laptop, download Steam as there are many FREE games that you may try or you may get affordable ones that you may enjoy. Challenging ‘yung mga new control combinations nito sa PS, but of course, it’ll take some time to get used to. Practice practice lang. Pili ka nalang muna ng malakas na team with best roster of players hehe parang GSW ganyan.
Stardew Valley. If you like Animal Crossing, ito yung medyo nauna doon. Available via mobile, PC, and Switch. I’m not sure if this is available on PS. But for me, this is better played via mobile or Switch. It is just slightly harder to navigate via PC, but this is just for me lang naman. So you’ll get rich faster, you may want to concentrate on mining here.
Metal Slug. Nostalgic. Hehe. Meron nito sa mobile, try mo. The 2D version is much better for me.
Super Mario Bros. Anything Mario is good. This is a classic. I bought the Super Mario Bros. Wonder and played it via TV—awesome graphics, splendid effects, easy to navigate and control, too! Worth it! Mapupuyat ka lang. Bawi ka nalang sleep after.
PUBG. Mas okay laruin sa PC hehe ang hirap sa mobile.
Call of Duty. Mas okay laruin sa PS. If you like to download this via Steam on your PC, make sure that you have enough memory space because there are other assets that it will install to ensure that the game functions rather smoothly.
Crash Bandicoot 4. Hindi ko pala ito ni-re-recommend, why do I even write it here. Ang hirap nito! Haha. Go for the Crash Bandicoot 3 nalang or the Classic Warped, not this one. Instead na ma-de-stress ka ma-stress ka pa lalo. Kung may PS1 ka pa, this will bring a lot of good childhood memories.
Some other games that I will try or I’m looking forward to:
Skyrim. I’ve tried this sa PC, okay siya. I think better controls if sa Switch.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus. I have this but I haven’t started it yet.
Mario Kart. Because, again, anything Mario is good!
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. Coming this September 2024
Pokemon Legends: Z-A. Coming next year, 2025.
These are just some demure games (mostly) you can play at your own pace. Like a good book, video games can take you to different adventures where you are in control but with concrete challenges, too. Try and try, because just like in real life, there are villains there, as well. 😉
Welcome to Panglao Island, Bohol—the embodiment of a tranquil escape in the heart of the Philippines.
I say chill trip because now that I’m in my 30s, I have outgrown the running-to-see-everything vibe and treat every vacation as slow-moving days to recuperate and uproot myself from the hustle and bustle of my city and career life.
It was not my first time in Bohol (if my memory serves me well), but it was my first time in Panglao Island. Nestled in the heart of the Visayas region, Bohol is one of those places you’d definitely want to visit–it is about an hour or so away from Manila via air travel and the center of the island is just a mere 15-20 minutes away from the airport.
If you are looking for the Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, and other attractions in Bohol, this is not it. Our trip made sense of the quiet and peaceful atmosphere in Panglao Island–discovering new restaurants to try and other places to visit and shop; and just indulge in the different atmosphere away from the city.
Solea Coast Resort Panglao’s Lobby and Pool (c) Shainne Hostalero
We stayed at the Solea Coast Resort Panglao, 1.8km away from Alona Beach, it has picturesque interiors, contemporary rooms, children-friendly pools, and beautiful sunrise and sunset views. The hotel also has a restaurant conveniently located in the lobby making it accessible and perfect in case you do not want to go out and just want to stay in. They also offer a buffet breakfast and ala carte options for lunch and dinner.
Since we arrived in Bohol way too early for our hotel check-in, we opted to visit the famous Bee Farm. It was about 20 to 30 minutes away from our hotel via TukTuk (ride fee ranges from P100 to P200).
Bohol Bee Farm
As per the staff, they are no longer keeping and/or taking care of bees on the farm since the pandemic happened. The property has been converted to be a fully functional events place, and hotel, and sells other Bohol delicacies and other products. Everyone is free to roam around the farm and enjoy its tranquility and shop for various products as pasalubong. I was still able to purchase pure honey.
As a legit tita, it is my happiness to just roam around without too much pressure on where to go next and really enjoy my time doing about nothing and getting bored–as what I perceive my vacations to be. During a regular day, everything is on a calendar and I function with a full to-do list. I don’t even have that time to be bored and make my mind float to some other things; so I make sure that every vacation is a time to reset and just about enjoying good food, good company, and peaceful experiences with my choice of title in hand.
Restaurants to try
TikTok is indeed a useful source of information, especially on what restaurants to try. On our first night, we tried Mist located just about 5 to 10 minutes away from Solea Coast Resort in Danao, Panglao. What a very Instagrammable place Mist is! Their food was good, too, with huge servings, even good for sharing, at a very competitive price point.
Mist Bohol (c) Shainne Hostalero
I am a fan of burgers, especially brick oven-cooked ones. This, by far, is one of those burgers that I could say I will order again. The fries and the sauce are great, too. You’d enjoy eating it because Mist’s interiors and other fixtures are fascinating.
Their iced coffee is great as well! There are many options to choose from–whether you are a vegetarian, a picky eater, or an adventurous foodie, Mist is recommendable. Make sure that you come in a bit early. They open as early as 9:00 AM until night. If you are planning to try them for dinner, make sure to arrive between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM to make sure that you can choose seats. Once 6:00 PM-7:00 PM strikes, there is already a build-up of people lining up to take their seats. Waiting could be quite long depending on the volume of people.
Entrance to Mist Bohol
Mist at night (c) Shainne Hostalero
Our second day is a bit more chill out. We headed to Alona Beach and we were happy that it was not too crowded even on a weekend. The stretch of Alona Beach reminded me a lot of Boracay with all the restaurants and activities that one can try.
Alona Beach
We were blessed with nice weather–not too sunny, but not too gloomy as well–perhaps because it was December. We walked end-to-end of the beach to see what it has to offer. There were many diving resorts and a far more party-centric vibe along the beach (probably more at night). Nothing shabby, really. Eating by the beach will make you look forward to going. However, take your time choosing a resto, make sure to see the menu and see how the customer service is.
Henann Resort, Alona Beach
Since it was also our last day, for dinner, we also tried Mosa, a restaurant similar to Mist (they have the same owner/s as our TukTuk driver had shared), located at the Panglao Island Circumferential Rd, Danao, Panglao, Island. Not too many people unlike Mist, but it is as attractive as the resto.
Mosa Restaurant, Panglao Island, Bohol (c) Shainne Hostalero
This croissant burger is indeed special. I didn’t realize that a beef patty would be good in combination with a croissant. As usual, burgers are worth trying for! Their food presentations are very attractive and they make you want to order more.
Mango Shake at MOSA
They may not be as high as Mist, but their interiors are a winner, too! I love that they also utilized re-used wooden palettes for their tables and chairs, and have nicely decorated the whole place with sustainable materials. You should come in before the sun sets so you can enjoy more the warm colors of the restaurant and stay until it is dark for you to witness how glowing the place is during the night.
Quiet & Peaceful
My introverted self was able to recharge during the trip away from my extroverted career. A walk to the beach to cap off the night was rewarding and while it was ideal to do this daily, city life could be crawling out from me hehe.
Solea Coast Resort Beach side at night
The cold weather of December was indeed inviting! It might be a good time to drink whilst on the beach, but since I have many allergic reactions to alcohol (bummer!), that won’t do. Panglao Island is one of those peaceful beaches I have visited (probably next to Bulabog Beach in Boaracy and Talipanan Beach in Oriental Mindoro). Definitely worth the time!
It’s not just a book fair, it’s a book experience!
Hello, fellow bookworms!
The largest traveling Pinoy book festival is happening in the country on June 2 to 4, 2023 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and on August 18 to 20, 2023 in SMX Davao.
You can purchase from thousands of books and through more than 140 publishers! The Philippine Book Festival (PBF) is the perfect opportunity to discover new titles and authors, meet and greet with renowned writers and illustrators, and participate with friends, family, and colleagues. Admission to the event is FREE!
Whenever I go on dates and am asked what I want to eat, I say either burger or pasta. It’s practical, it’s easy, and it gives a hint that this woman does not follow a diet. Hehehe. There are many many good burger joints and go-to pasta places wherever, but there are very few I would go back to.
I’m not a burger enthusiast, I just have a certain taste I prefer — grilled, savory, mustard-y, and a little sweetness here and there. The same goes with chicken wings, fries, and pasta — savory. I think that’s the word.
I do cook but most of the time my schedule does not permit it, so where do we go then? We go to the best places to eat. Living in Manila (borderline Quezon City), it is easy to find good places to go to eat, but also hard to catch something that fuels the appetite. There are many reasons why–you’d probably get used to those recipes and choices, it probably doesn’t make a dent in your taste preference, your mood perhaps, and many more. But, good food uplifts your mood, always!
At the end of a tiring and toxic day (dealing with a difficult boss… haaay 2023 na! Hahaha), comfort food is the key (or stress eating? Hehe), Facts Burger is surprisingly the answer! They are also advocates of supporting the local economy by sourcing their ingredients from local suppliers. Their place is cozy and trendy, and their staffs are friendly and approachable, too.
FACTS BURGER (P199)
This is their entry-level burger, with a 100% premium beef patty, lettuce, onions, and Facts sauce.
They do have other kinds of burger choices for your preference.
TRUFFLE CREAM PASTA (P220)
By far, one of the best truffle cream kinds of pasta I’ve ever tasted! Their huge serving really gives you value for money (I even had this for take-out). The bread was also served fresh.
THEM WINGS in GARLIC HONEY MUSTARD (P259)
This is the highlight of my Facts Burger experience! Their Garlic Honey Mustard Chicken Wings. It is served per 1/2 dozen and you may choose if you want it with fries or rice. They do suggest dips too that go well with their chicken wings. This one was independent, no other sauces or dips were needed! I should’ve ordered more.
They also have other items included in their menu–sandwiches, rice meals, other add-ons, and drinks like Coke products, beers, juices, and decent coffee, too! Facts Burger indeed offers quality and delicious food, and value for money! Money well spent. I’m not a food blogger, so I don’t know how to give justice to their food offerings, but I always like to try new good places here and there. Facts Burger is simply one of those go-to places when in search of good comfort food in the Metro.
Facts Burger is located at 915 Banawe Street cor. G. Roxas St., Brgy. Manresa, Quezon City, beside Bruno’s Barber, adjacent to Z Square Mall. They are open from 12:00 NN to 8:00 PM. Parking is limited. You may opt to park in Z Square Mall (for P40) and walk a bit to reach the place.
Need help? Here is a guide on how you can renew your passport in the Philippines.
I haven’t gotten to travel abroad since 2019 (?) I didn’t want to take my chances, too, because I have a toddler then and do not want to risk getting COVID-19 (the onset was early 2020, and the vaccine roll-out happened later). With that said, I didn’t bother to renew my passport then and which expired in 2021 (I did local travels with strict protocol. Better be safe than sorry).
I took advantage of the year-end break at work to do errands, relax, and renew my passport. In early 2022, there was no available schedule for passport renewal — borders opened, businesses are too, and so is tourism.
Mid of December 2022, I was already booking the schedule before the holiday festivities, but appointment schedule slots are quick to be taken. I tried booking for a later date and I made it to the cut-off! No pictures on this post because it was not allowed to take photos on the renewal site (remember!). Here are some of the things you need to do and bring:
1. Set an appointment
You may check at www.passport.gov.ph and book an available date on your preferred Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) site (mostly SM Malls) for your passport renewal. Please be aware of the time and come in 30 minutes earlier your chosen schedule (so you are not stressed and can finish at an earlier time).
2. Enter your details accurately
Enter all your details on the Passport Application Form, and please make sure they are all accurate (but do not worry if you have chosen a different option on your address or have a minimal typo accidentally as there will also be an information validation at the site). Your primary details should also match the ones on your current passport.
3. Choose how you want to receive your renewed passport: through courier service or via pick-up
For my two previous renewals, I always choose the courier service option so it can be delivered to my home since I get too busy in the day to be somewhere else than work. You just have to also fill out the Letter of Authority or Special Power of Attorney (SPA) that will also be provided to you via email once you have confirmed your schedule. If you opt for a pick-up, DFA staff on site will tell you when the release date of your passport be and where you can pick it up. Ensure that you all have supporting documents with you for validation purposes.
4. Pay online
When I get on site at SM City North Edsa (near Pet Express – Interior Zone ), I did not see any cashier for application payment, hence all transactions are done online when you confirm your renewal schedule. It is more convenient I must say and you may use your debit/credit card, GCash, and PayMaya.
5. Check your email
During the application, you’d be asked to provide your email address so please make sure that the one you will input is active. After filling out the passport application form and paying online, all details and necessary forms will be sent to you via email. You will be asked to print the files sent to you as those will be the ones you will submit during your schedule for processing.
What to bring:
The duly filled-out Passport Application Form (sent to you via email)
Printed Electronic Receipt No. for reference
Old/current passport
Valid ID (government-issued IDs) or Birth Certificate (Original and Photocopy)
Few Reminders:
Do not wear heavy make-up that will make you unrecognizable
No sleeveless or any revealing tops allowed
Make sure your hair is neat and photos shall showcase your ears
Better to remove all accessories (earrings, necklaces, facial piercings if any)
No companion is allowed except for minors (a waiting area is also available for your companions)
Come 30 minutes before your appointment or better, an hour before
Overall, the whole process will take you no more than 30 minutes, depending on the volume of applicants but, usually, if this is already an appointment system, it will be 30 minutes tops. It took me only 10 to 15 minutes for the passport renewal, then you have to wait for its release, to be delivered or be ready for pick-up.
Café Inggo 1587 is a Dominican concept restaurant in Quezon City, located in the compound of Sto. Domingo Church. The place crafts cozy and elegant vibes that you’d be glad to be in after a long day.
Café Inggo 1587 is a Dominican concept restaurant in Quezon City, located in the compound of Sto. Domingo Church. The place crafts cozy and elegant vibes that you’d be glad to be in after a long day.
Café Inggo 1587 located at San Pio V Bldg., Sto. Domingo Church Compound, Biak-na-Bato cor. Quezon Avenue, Quezon City | (c) Shainne Hostalero, May 2022
I knew this resto because my son was baptized in Sto. Domingo in 2018; it was probably on construction or soft-opening at that time, I couldn’t duly recall, but I only just tried it this 2022 after 2-3 years in the pandemic and booster shots from the COVID-19.
The place is clean and well-sanitized, and people don’t flock inside. Surprisingly, the place isn’t crowded–with the quality of its food, scrumptious servings, and service, this is just unbelievable. Though I really haven’t gone during weekends or after church, but I frequent on weekdays’ dinner time, after work hours.
Sta. Clara Bacon & Mushroom Café Inggo’s carbonara pottage
I’m very picky in terms of white sauces in pasta. Previously, I only prefer Mary Grace’s and my own cooking (by default, love your own hehe), but I tried their Sta. Clara Bacon & Mushroom, their carbonara pottage, and it did not disappoint. It is savory, creamy pasta, served with garlic buttered biscotti/bread. It has big servings, even good for sharing.
I had the remaining pasta to go because it was worth keeping the remains. It was still good when I heated it the morning after. It is definitely, automatically, added to my favorites.
Champorado Malagkit’ rice from Cabanatuan boiled in fresh Spanish tablea served with fried danggit
They serve all-day breakfast, too! Their Champorado is perfect for the rainy season. It is not too sweet and even served with the best fried danggit I ever tasted in the most recent times. It also has the perfect balance of mixed fruits–in the photo: ripe mangoes, grapes, and kiwi.
The place is cozy with various artworks and books. Since it is a Dominican-themed café, salt and pepper condiments are served in ceramic canisters like these:
Payments are very convenient, too. They accept debit/credit cards, GCash, and Cash. The service staffs are also very accommodating, very friendly, and approachable which makes the experience perfect. The place is also very solemn/peaceful/quiet–a great place to unwind within the Metro after a stressful day.
I prefer Café Inggo when I only want to talk about positively-entertaining things or good news. Hehehe. I just felt rants do not give justice to the place, to the food, and to their service, so I unwelcome thoughts of any of those.
They also serve coffee and Filipino favorites, breads and pastries, too. They also see delicacies at the resto. If you are looking for an intimate place to enjoy delicious food and quality service, Café Inggo is perfect.
The pandemic has brought us a lot of anxieties, but truth be told: I didn’t have so many things to adjust in terms traveling because I am the only person I know who is not fond of going places. However, it was also frightening going to and from work because of the danger this health crisis poses.
Early December of 2021, when we think COVID-19 cases were decreasing, I finally gave in to have lunch outside the City hehe.
Taken at Balay Dako at Antonio’s
We left Manila at around 8:30-9am-ish and arrived at Tagaytay at 11:30am. It was Monday so the restaurant opens exactly at noon, unlike weekends that they open earlier at around 11:00 am. I was expecting lesser people since it was Monday, but still the place was full.
When we arrived, we have given a number (since we do not have a reservation because the trip was spontaneous). The guard checked our temperature as well and we fill-out an online contact tracing form. We were instructed to just wait in the car and not to roam around while waiting for the restaurant to open.
The weather was cold since it was December. When we got in and ready to order, there was an online menu you may look at and it can be accessible via the in-house internet connection exclusive only for viewing the said menu. Globe signal wasn’t good also, so you won’t be able to use your Globe mobile data; on the other hand, SMART mobile internet has a good reception.
Taken at Balay Dako
Since there were a lot of people, roaming around wouldn’t be an option plus you also want to keep a social distance because of the current health situation.
We ordered their Sinigang na Baboy (good for 3 to 4 persons) and Calamares (good for 1 to 2 persons). The food gets easily cold because of the weather. The area was clean, and open so less anxiety because the airflow is good. The sinigang was good and its pork is tender. The calamares isn’t crunchy like the ones in Dencio’s, Gerry’s Grill, Kuya J’s haha sorry those were my comparisons since I don’g usually go out of the city or eat in areas where it merits to stay long (for the past three years) — hotels, formal dine-ins, etc.
We didn’t stay long in Tagaytay because it also good to not be caught in traffic when late afternoon came. We were in Manila at around 2:30 PM (yes, went to Tagaytay just to eat hehe) and went to Ayala Malls Manila Bay to continue Christmas shopping. It was nice, very few people as well because it was a Monday.
To cap off the day, we went to Harbor Square in Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in Pasay to get a glimpse of the sunset to make the most of the day that I had the time to go out.
Taken at Harbor Square, Pasay City. #nofilter
These places are still open despite of the lockdowns and changes in quarantine classifications here and there. Make sure that you wear your face mask, keep your social distance, and better to dine out and choose places with good airflow.
Shainne Hostalero 