McDonald's Kiddie Crew Grand Graduation

Here's what made our baby-no-more Ella Venice's summer busy - being a kiddie crew at McDo!  For 5 days, she learned how to greet customers, assist in drive-thru, get order, and make burgers at a certain McDonald's branch in Cagayan de Oro City.  She was filled with excitement as she told me her story because she also got to meet new friends, learn a new song and new dance moves.  For apart from the daily routine at the store, the kids also underwent other workshops and training for personality development.  With that, being a McDo kiddie crew can make your child grow in a healthy environment for holistic progress.  After 5 days, they'll get out as different individuals who can stand on their own as they are being exposed to the real world.  So a grand graduation day is what they deserve!  On May 18, 2016, all kiddie crew from all branches of McDo in CDO gathered at The Atrium of Limketkai Center for a fun-filled day!  And I was so happy to have witnessed it together with Tatay Don2x and Nanay Karen!

The grand graduation started with a registration for all kids.  Then a program followed hosted by Ronald McDonald and company with Ms. Jacky Lou Blanco as the surprise guest.  Alonzo Muhlach also graced the event by chatting live with the kids through Skype and showcasing his talents.  Afterwards, the kids danced and took their oath as a McDo kiddie crew.  And for finale, they sang the McDo kiddie crew theme song, Make It Happen which gave me goosebumps.  Here's a snippet of the last part of the program:

But the fun doesn't end here!  There were also booths like face painting, glam me up, and dance revo.  Ella together with cousins Amber and Jan2x visited and enjoyed the booths.  I also enjoyed following them around and wished I was also a kid.  But secretly wishing I was a mom too.  Haha!  The event was one big party with plenty of burgers, games, and prizes!  And to be purposeful in my end, Karen and I also discussed on how to expand Fascino as a total party business.  Needs a whole lot of work though.  But who knows!

Thank you so much Don2x and Karen for bringing me with you!  Thanks for sharing with me another milestone of your unica hija, Ella.  Really makes a proud tita here!  Congratulations to our baby langga!  Yes, you've indeed grown up already but stay sweet as you are! :)

  
Being a McDonald's kiddie crew is truly a great experience for your child to remember as he/she grows up.  Make their summer worthwhile!  Sign him/her up next year at the nearest McDo branch in your place!  For more information, click here.

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Museo de Oro

Getting to a place and staying in that place is never enough to know that certain place.  Cagayan de Oro City is like the 3rd home of Ozamiznons, next to Cebu which is always Ozamiznons' 2nd home (as I could see and tell).  I think almost all Ozamiznons grew up going to CDO on weekends just to shop and dine.  You know, the usual leaving Ozamiz at the break of dawn, arrive CDO around 9AM, go straight to the malls, and leave the city by mid-afternoon to make habol the ferry trip via Tamula in those days and barge nowadays.  If being left behind by the ferries, go 'round Lanao-Zamboanga route which is way too hassle and tiring.  Though CDO is 4 hours away from Ozamiz, we still love going there for something new and different.  For the quickest escape, just hop in the barge and bus to CDO.  But, do we really know CDO aside from its malls, restos, and hotels?

For me, CDO is again 3rd.  Third from Manila (1) and Cebu (2).  Well, that's in terms of malls and street traffic.  So there I go again, malls!  That's what I always picture out when CDO comes in mind.  So I was glad that the LSU MatSci Department squeezed in something different during our trip last week.  We visited Museo de Oro which is nestled inside Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan.  The museum showcases the history of not only the said university but also the entire Cagayan de Oro as well.  So, I got a glimpse of CDO's past (that needs to be discussed).

In the first chamber of the museum, an archaeological display of prehistoric CDO is being exhibited.  This includes the fossil remains of Stegodon mindanensis, an elephant of the Pleistocene era.   

Then a display of paleolithic CDO follows consisting of pottery of Kalanay tradition, nephrite stone adzes, iron blades, human remains, and coffins which were recovered at Huluga Cave, Brgy. Taguanao, Cagayan de Oro City.  The cave was said to have been used as a cemetery in the ancient period.

Next was an exhibit of how the early inhabitants of CDO survived thousands of years ago before the arrival of the Spaniards in our country.  There are spears, harpoons, and other weaponry used for hunting and in warfare, cooking ware, and other household materials.

After the prehistoric era, there's a showcase of Catholic relics and other religious artifacts brought in by the Spaniards to CDO.  In 1622, two Augustinian recollect missionaries first came to the place and later in 1626, another Augustinian priest, Fray Agustin de San Pedro convinced the natives to transfer their settlement down the river (as the city is being bounded by a river).  In their new settlement, the priest built a church where he baptized the leader of the tribe, Datu Salangsang and his wife.  (Source: Heritage Conservation Advocates)

But even before the coming of the Spaniards, the natives already opened doors for barter trade with the Chinese.  This was evident by the recovery of intricately crafted Chinaware from Song to Ming dynasty period according to the museum's guide.

Then there's also a corner dedicated to the Japanese occupation in the Philippines during World War II.  There's a kimono, a samurai, a ceramic set for drinking sake, a pair of geta, and the Japanese flag.

At the other side of the room is the second chamber exhibiting the rich culture of Mindanao.  In my History V class in MSU-IIT way back college days, I learned that there are 18 indigenous ethnic groups in Mindanao so far as I can recall.  Most of them are Moros or Muslims but the first inhabitants of CDO were not Muslims but another tribe of men with big tattoos and women with gold ornaments.  I guess that's where the name Cagayan de Oro came from.  Oro from gold and kagay means river by the way, from where the first settlements were located.

No matter how invaders conquered our land, no matter how the world changed, there are still indigenous tribes in Mindanao that remain uninfluenced, untouched, and had preserve their culture and tradition.  They still believe in their own faith, create their own art, sing and dance in their own music, and write their own story.

Especially our Muslim brothers and sisters.  They have an opulent collection of rare finds in the museum.

            

Museo de Oro is not just of prehistory, the ancient, and the culture.  It also features the evolution of technology so we got to see the old machines our not-so-ancient ancestors used before.  FYI, I had come to use the typewriter when I was still in grade school and high school so these are not that ancient after all.

Finally, we are now at the upper chamber of the museum where memorabilia of Fr. Francisco Demetrio, SJ, founder of Museo de Oro are being displayed.  Fr. Demetrio had written books on Philippine myths and even a dictionary and encyclopedia of Philippine folk beliefs.  Graduate school students often visit the gallery as the museum was given the name to be Philippines' first folkloric museum. 

Isn't it great pride for us, Mindanaons that right here in our very own land, a national treasure lies before our very eyes which plays a big role to our country's history?  And what I consider as the gem Museo de Oro has is the dinner invitation and menu of Pres. Emilio Aguinaldo, Philippines' first president of the republic right on the very first day of our independence in 1898 at Cavite.

Lastly, still at the upper chamber.  Behind us is a collection of Philippine and foreign currencies from years before up to the present.

After the tour, I realized that I don't really know CDO at all.  Because the more you know, the more you did not know.  Hehe....  So I felt fulfilled with our trip 'coz we inserted an educational tour for lifelong learning.  

Thank you, Museo de Oro for accommodating us though it was your maintenance shut down last Monday!  (Parang planta lang.  Hehe... I forgot the term for museums.)

So take time to know our heritage!  Visit Museo de Oro inside Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan!  Entrance fee is only P70 for adults, P60 for graduate students, and P30 for undergrads.  Sorry I haven't checked for the kids. Maybe it's lower.  No flash photography is allowed and just like in all museums, touching of everything inside is prohibited.  Observe silence too!

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High Ridge

Checking-in, checking-in.....  Oh, how I love beautiful places and beautiful things!  Sa tuktok pa ng bundok, sa pinakalalim pa ng dagat, sa kaduludulohan pa ng mundo, at sa kaibuturan pa ng puso (char lang!), talagang dadayuhin just to experience!  Experience a place and all its goodness, that's my kinababaliwan these past years!  But my latest check-in is not that exag to reach and attain to.  It was actually, smart!  Specific, measurable, achievable, results-focused, and time-bound.  Ngek, nakuha lang sa seminar?  Haha!  Or might be, LSS?  Anyway highway, this was our PEP dinner venue at Cee-Dee-Oh last Sunday night!

High Ridge is located on a hilltop at Aluba, Upper Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City.  It is a really big resto that could cater 300-500 persons (in my calculation only) in just one setting.  There are plenty of seats to accommodate everyone according to preference, may it be indoor fine dining or just the casual al fresco.  But I prefer the latter-outdoor garden and the terrace for a more cozy atmosphere and cooler ambiance.

In addition to the garden, a playing area for kids is installed too which makes the place a family-friendly one.  It is a perfect location for family bonding after church on a Sunday as what we'd notice and it's great to go there by late afternoon to early evening.  I have to warn you that the road is a bit risky though it's not rocky and bumpy.  It's just too steep, you know.  Acrophobic issue, curling my feet in greater heights.....  Nyikes!  By the way, High Ridge is open from 11 AM to 12 MN serving lunch, snacks, dinner, and nightcap.

  

Since the resto is on top of a hill, the air is a bit nippy in contrast with the burning heat of CDO city proper.  It offers a panoramic view of the city which reminds me of Victoria Peak in Hong Kong wherein you'll also get dazzled by the lights come nighttime.

And the food.  Yes, the food!  No wonder why people flock to the place!  For not only we can have a nice change of environment but we can also have more than good food!  Just by the sight, one can't never resist!

Introducing, the Fiesta Platter in calamares top view (edited through IG), pork belly view, roasted chicken view, and crispy pata view!  All the yummy goodness in just one big platter perfect for 4-6 persons (in my own calculation again depending on the group's appetite).  Everyone's fave calamares is chewy but not rubbery, the pork belly is too flavorful than the ordinary grilled ones.  However, the roasted chicken is a bit dry and not juicy.  And the crispy pata's skin is really crunchy to the bite!  The sauces have their distinct tang and zest that I couldn't compare with ordinary soy sauce and vinegar.  Overall impact for this, it's really fiesta to the mouth and the tummy!      

Fiesta Platter - P1,399

Another is the Seafood Platter comprising of seaweed salad, kinilaw, grilled squid, shrimps, and fish.  Looks very palatable but not that ample compared with the Fiesta Platter which can only be good for 3-5 persons only (in my calculation again and again).  And this one is more pricey.  Maybe seafood in CDO costs really high 'coz here in Ozamiz, we've got plenty in our market!  I didn't find anything remarkable in this platter.  The taste is just the same as what we can do and have in our own kitchen at home.  We can even do better.  Hehe.....

Seafood Platter - P1,799

With that, I highly recommend the Fiesta Platter than the Seafood Platter as long as you are not health conscious and you eat giving in to your guilty pleasure.

On the other hand, there are also a la carte servings such as this High Ridge roasted chicken.  I haven't tasted this one and I hope this isn't cooked the same as the roasted chicken in the Fiesta Platter.

High Ridge Roasted Chicken - P169

Finally, the drinks!  If other restos or cafes shoot up the prices of their drinks, High Ridge doesn't.  Cold drinks start at only P35 to P89 and shakes range from P109-P149.  Glasses are tall making the drinks even more worth the price!

 Then we had full tummies after our very satisfying banquet at the resto!  

   
So may it be a date with someone special, a barkada hang-out, or a family reunion, visit High Ridge for an ultimate view from the top!

As with the experience, it was worth the long and winding road 'coz the LSU MatSci Department loves High Ridge! #tosomeats #tosomtravels

    

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Barkadahan Grill

If you are in for cowboy-eating that's swak to the budget in Cagayan de Oro City, then Barkadahan Grill is definitely for you!  From the word itself barkada, it means a gang or group of friends.  So if you are treating a big pack, better head to this place for more eats and less expense.

The place is spacious and orders come immediately which is a commendation for people who are already hungry and want to devour food right then and there.  They have grilled chicken, pork, and fish as well as other Filipino dishes like crispy pata, pancit canton, fresh lumpia, etc.  It's just like any other restaurant situated in a mall (it's in Ayala Centrio, by the way) but you'll enjoy their unli rice and homey ambiance. 

So if ever you visit CDO and suddenly become one hungry Juan on a tight budget, crash into Barkadahan Grill and you'll surely have a comfort meal to ease you down!  

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Kagay Whitewater Rafting

When in Mindanao, never fail to experience our adventure pride which is whitewater rafting!  Whitewater rafting is a leisure sport which uses a raft to navigate a river with too many rapids.  The more rapids you'll pass by and get through, the more fun you'll have.  And there's no other legit company who could give you the best ride of a lifetime than Kagay!  

Kagay is Cagayan de Oro's premiere whitewater rafting outfitter.  It has been in the biz for over six years now and still continues to give the safest adventure and most valuable customer satisfaction.  They always see to it that their staff and guides are well-trained and well-equipped in every voyage.  So before hitting the rapids, they give orientation to the troops for they do not do voyages with 2-3 rafts only.  As they say, the more the merrier so as to have plenty of eyes to watch for each other too.    

Then off we hit the rapids!  The secret in safeguarding your raft in order for it not to topple upside down is proper coordination within your troop's members. 

Everybody must listen to the guide very well and must follow his instructions properly.  The paddling must be done in perfect unison to the left, to the right, back, front, and in right number of counts as the guide commands.  Proper positioning was also directed for a more adventurous ride!

Aside from rafting, you may also enjoy swimming in the cold still waters that we didn't hesitate but just jumped into it.  The water was so clean when we were there because of the fair weather.  

Additionally, the Cagayan de Oro river is deep and wide with nature preserved at its best.  You'll not only enjoy rafting and swimming but you'll also enjoy its surrounding breathtaking sights.

Our tour lasted for half a day which was the beginner's course and we were famished by early afternoon upon finishing it.  So if you're planning to go for rafting, bring some snacks in a water-proof plastic bag to go along the journey.  But I guess you cannot think to eat with too much adrenaline rushing in your veins already.  Hehehe.....

By the end of the cruise, a swimming pool awaits if you want to do more swimming.  But us, we ended up with more eating.

Extreme sports such as rafting is not dangerous at all if we observe proper precautions by listening carefully and following our guide's commands religiously.  If you want to have an experience of a lifetime, visit Kagay's official website here for they also offer other adventure packages in Cagayan de Oro City!

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