CDO Wide

Reminds Me Of CounterStrike

2008-12-16T23:09:00.000-08:00

I don't know with you guys, but these photos remind me the old game we used to play during our highschool (and during class hours of our college times) called CounterStrike.

There was a map in that game where there are several cargo's pretty much like the ones you see in these photos, and I just thought this (like the game) would make a good venue for airsoft war games.

Just looking at it reminds me of the days when I used to hear the words "Fire in the Hole!!!" and "Counter Terrorist Wins"

By the way, this photo is taken near the city's port in Puntod.

Have A Grape Day in CDO

2008-12-15T12:22:00.000-08:00

You probably won't believe this, but I'll say this anyway. What you're seeing are real grapes (katong prutas bah) growing under the unlikely weather of CDO.

This photo was taken in my girlfriends house in J. Pacana St., Puntod, and it's really hot and a lot if trucks (meaning abog) always pass by the area, but there they were.

It's vines are actually hanging or crawling in their HayHayan (clothesline) and they are a bit smaller than the usual. And that means they taste sour and not sweet, but hey... they are grapes.

Divisoria Christmas Tree At It's Best

2008-12-14T06:13:00.001-08:00

Now I finally caught this Christmas Tree in Divisoria at it's best. Looks really great huh.

"Kini moy Krismas Tree!!!"

Busy Sunday Afternoon At Lim Ket Kai Mall

2008-12-14T05:37:00.000-08:00

When I say busy, I really mean every sense of the word, and this is what I would describe LimKetKai mall this sunday afternoon.

There were SALE's and 10%-70% discounts, and a lot of BUY 1 Take 1 promos in different stores, and displays were all around the mall.

You can see a lot of gadgets, home theatres, clothes, bags, toys, and a whole lot of things enough to make the shoppers busy for the whole afternoon. Just the right place in time to look for the perfect gift this Christmas.

Now this is how a mall should bring the Christmas spirit to the shoppers.

So what are you waiting for? Buy Now!!!

It's Full Moon in CDO

2008-12-12T02:50:00.000-08:00

It's full moon in CDO, and I'm hiding a camera while looking for a good spot in our backyard.

Is this a good shot?

Makulay Ang Buhay Ni Mr. Gulay

2008-12-12T02:46:00.000-08:00

"Makulay.... ang buhay.... makulay ang buhay sa sinabawang gulay.... "

Traffic Photography by: Photography

2008-12-10T04:43:00.001-08:00

The Art of Traffic Photography

Night Cafe - CDO Night Life

2008-12-10T03:33:00.000-08:00

in the early hours

Every weekend in is an entirely different experience for every Kagay-anon and visitors as well in CDO.

Reason: The city "Night Cafe"...

starting to be crowded

It's definitely Life at Night for the people in CDO, and why not? Here you get to eat great food, buy affordable clothes, bags, shoes, etc..., ; listen to live music, see different street gimiks, and basically almost everything that makes your weekend a really relaxing getaway.

shoes and more shoes..

"Let's morning the night" matud pa sa mga Kagay-anon, and this holds true in this weekly habit cause most people here spend time from around 6 pm till the morning. It's that fun, and you can't blame them.

street foods (balut, kwek2x, refillable buko juice, etc..)

And here's the thing, if you're thinking the Night Cafe is all just about food, then you're missing half of it. Cause here you'll find almost everything that can be easily saleable like blingblings, slippers, chargers, cellphone casings....

... pants, clothes, blankets.....

...more clothes, jackets, sleeping people.... ukay-ukay style if you may...

and yes... everyone's favorite... the live bands. And sometimes they have radio DJ's bring the party down with dancing competitions, singing competitions, dating games, and a whole lot more to mention.

This is our city at night. Laag na tah!!!! (let's party!!!)

La Favorita - Homemade Ice Cream in CDO

2008-12-09T03:43:00.000-08:00

Do you love Ice Cream????

Then go try CDO's own La Favorita - Homemade Ice Cream.

Wala koy lain ma sulti kung dili "Grabeh kalami!!!".... (so delicious!!!).

Maka wala gud ug problema. (lets your worries disappear)

Here are the prices:

Try it!!!! Di gud mo mag basul (you won't regret it).

CDO Bloggers Meet Bloggie

2008-12-09T03:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Dec. 9, 2008, the CDO Bloggers finally met Blogie and shared a dinner with him @ P. Joe's diner.

Too bad I missed it. Specially this part:

The night (as they said) ended great, and the good news was shared with my CDO Blogger folks.... Now it's official, we will host the 3rd MBS (mindanao Bloggers Summit) in 2009.

Be there.

Night At The Museum (aw SC diay)

2008-12-08T00:10:00.000-08:00

The Dirty Kitchen

2008-12-07T23:51:00.000-08:00

Every Filipino knows what a "Dirty Kitchen" (note: not an andjective) is.

The "Dirty Kitchen" is where we cook the old fashion way using tinigbas na kahoy (chopped wood) or uling (charcoal?), and if you look at it, it really looks dirty..... but just like the old folks always say "Mas lami gud kanunay ang luto basta kahoy". (english: food always tastes better when it's cooked with wood).

Yes, and it's cheaper too. :)

It' really good to know that there are still a lot of Kagay-anons with dirty kitchens in their homes to remind us of the old ways. And, I guess it's not the wood that makes the food taste better... it's the memories that it brings.

Two Tickets = Two Shakes

2008-12-06T19:44:00.000-08:00

The best things in Life are free.... and one of those things are two (2) free P 50 gift tickets from ZAGU. Courtesy of my dear friend Grace Naces.

And here's what those two (2) tickets can buy you:

Grande Size Pearl Shakes

Hmmmm .... Mas lami gud diay ang libre!!!! (things are indeed better when they're free)

XU Days - Fire Dancing at The Soccer Field

2008-12-05T22:18:00.000-08:00

Well, as promised, here's a video of the best part of the Xavier Days @ 75 celebration.... The fire dancing at the soccer field.

At 75 - Xavier Days Are Here Again

2008-12-05T03:35:00.000-08:00

Xavier University @ 75

Xavier Days is here again, and I have to say they made a point in saying that it's going Brighter, Stronger, And farther at 75.

Well, the heavy rain "almost" spoiled the special day, and I said "almost" because I really thought it was gonna rain the whole night, but I guess almost seems nothing when you're beginning to have fun. And that's exactly what happened

A view of the campus while it was still raining...

singing Christmas carols

St. Francis Xavier surrounded with flowers.. lots of flowers.

And here's what everyone is waiting for.... the light a tree contest. (but some said there were no countdowns, and they weren't able to get ready)

I wasn't able to take a picture of all departments though coz I was a bit busy having fun, and I can't find my beloved SBM tree anywhere. (Where is it?)

But here are some of he best looking trees in the campus.

The Aggies "water" Tree.

The big Diamond (I kinda thought M. Lhullier joined the celebration)

The BSN Boat

The CD Tree

The Angel Tree

And here are some props (part of the decorations) I thought were worth seeing.

the Golden girl...

where did your snowman go? ... He's at XU.

Water and lights interpretation of XU @ 75

And yes of course, the fun after seeing all the lights will always be happening in the soccer field where different gimmiks, stores, stalls, and just about anything that the students want to show are in their.

Night Market Inspired

Well this year, aside from just having the usual Big Screen movie in the field, there was also this big screen intended for video gaming. (Tekken was played while I was there). Unfortunately I wasn't able to take a photo of it.

And yes, if you happen to notice the very long line in the Engg. building (it's not enrolment, trust me), then I guess you've seen that people still love to go to horror houses, cause that's what's in there.

And of course, if bloggers (like me?) love to feature such events, then so does the hosts of ABS CBN's Mag Tv. Here they are:

Talking about the event

Wrapping up...

"Horseback Riding" is also one of the activities inside you can see inside the campus, and this.... this is Janno (the very small horse).

If you've been in Xavier these past few days, I really hope you didn't miss seeing this guy dancing with flames. But don't worry, I caught him on video.

Well that's it for now. I hope yo enjoyed my shaky, yet fun coverage of the XU at 75. And sorry girls, I haven't seen Chris Tiu around, so no photos for you today.

My Manny Pacquiao Predictions

2008-12-05T03:29:00.001-08:00

Manny Pacquiao Wins!!!! That simple.

This photo was an image from my dream.... or so I say. It's actually at Lim Ket Kai mall during the fight, and I forgive me if I spoil you with this one but Manny will win in the 5th round, and the Golden Boy kisses the canvass.

Divisoria Christmas Tree (complete)

2008-12-05T03:24:00.000-08:00

Remember my previous post about the divisoria christmas tree?

Well heres how it looks like now. But I still have to take a picture of it when it;s really glowing with it's lights (and when it's not raining hard).

Labandera In The Making

2008-12-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

photo by: Omsel

A little girl closes her eyes as the water (and soap) splashes while she washes the clothes.

This photo was taken at Osmena St. (near the Coca Cola planta).

CDO Terminal & Colorful Jeepneys

2008-12-03T17:48:00.000-08:00

The colorful jeepneys of Gusa Terminal.

(and a small part of a passing van... disturbance, haha.)

CDO Bloggers ID

2008-12-02T23:26:00.000-08:00

As a part of the design group of CDO Bloggers, I was tasked to make a sample ID design for our core group members. And here is what I came up with.

I hope this looks good, and I hope using Eva Fonda's name would add a little humor to it.

For Anything Else... there's UniTop

2008-11-30T18:38:00.000-08:00

If you want to buy really affordable computer (and gadgets) supplies, we all know you have to go to CDR King right?

But for anything else, we have UniTop.

There's one in Osmena, and one in Cogon, and if you have an extra time, I highly recommend you spend one afternoon there. I'm sure you'll be surprise of what you're going to see there.

It's Taiwan in CDO - "Taiwanese"

2008-11-30T18:10:00.000-08:00

Do you know where this place is? Here in CDO, we call it "Taiwanese" or little Taiwan in CDO for two reasons. Most sellers here are from Taiwan, and they sell great items (bags, DVD/VCD's, jewelries, clothes, shoes, toys, and a lot more to mention) with greatly affordable prices.

This is how it looks from the top.

Little Taiwan is located in front of Hotel Conchita near the other side of Cogon market. (See photo below for reference)

And talking about "Taiwanese", here's one of my favorite stores in Little Taiwan..... The shoes heaven for a lot of people.

Look at all these shoes.

They actually sell shoes that belong to the "Class A" imitations, and for a great price which are all entirely negotiable.

here's what I bought for P350 from P390... but trust me, it's not yet the lowest price they can give me for the item.

Well if you're planning on visiting "Taiwanese" one of these days, here are some of my personal tips.

Have patience - in looking for a great item, cause sometimes they're hidden, or are the last pair of their stocks.
Buy More - you actually get to pay a lower cost if you buy two or more of their items. (like a P390 & a P250 shoes can easily be negotiated for P500 for both.. and that's a great deal already).
Go late - late in the afternoon (around 4pm down), is just the perfect time. It's not that hot and not that dark yet.
Have a good time - this is what affordable shopping is all about.

Lady Fatima

2008-11-30T17:57:00.001-08:00

It's nearly Christmas, and we Filipinos have the tradition of Visiting churches 9 days before Christmas. (You know what I mean right?).

well, if you really have the time, then you might want to include Lady Fatima on your list for "Simbang Gabi". This church lies in Camaman-an CDO, and you can just ride a motorella from Cogon or Divisoria to go there.

I don't really have to say how beautiful this church is. Just look at it, or better yet, have a visit and you'll see yet another beautiful Church in CDO.

ACCP - Cheap Cheap Cheap Ukay Ukay at It's Best

2008-11-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

If your an Ukay Ukay shopper, I call it "UkayUkaholic", then you've probably know where this place is. I have four letters for you.... ACCP (in Cogon) .

I'm actually beginning to think it means All Come in Cheap Prices because honestly, they surprisingly do.

Here (photo above) you'll see a lot of girls, and a boy, diving for those bundles of cheap bags (P30 at that time) that are all mounted on the floor.

see those bags?

An then the cheaper than cheap ladies and men's shoes....

P 30 only (at that time)

Shoes everywhere...

looking for pairs ...

And yes, every once in a while (like every 30 minutes) , you'll see some guy bringing sacks and sacks of items to be added to the display... and trust me, they do have a Truck, and at least 2 jeepneys full of sacks.
If you've noticed, I usually say "at that time" when I show the price. That's simply because in ACCP, and only here, they changed the prices of the items as the hour ticks by... I recommend going their early (when they've just opened the store) and late in the afternoon (when they're about to close) cause these are the times when the prices gets really cheap.

And just to give you an idea some of their items, here's a pair of shoes I unbelievably bought for P 10 only earlier this year.

But of course.. they're a bit worn out.

I guess the hard times really made a lot people lessen there choices on the Quality side in choosing things, and settle for the Price factor.

But just like life.... people sometimes do get lucky and get to buy good items which they can sell for 3 times the price (usually the case), or for personal use.

1st Rafting Adventure

2008-11-29T18:12:00.000-08:00

I use to remember a time when you either have to know somebody, or know somebody who knows somebody, who knows information of on how and who to contact with when you want to experience White Water Rafting Adventure here in CDO.

Well, those days are gone, cause now all you need to do (for rafting enquiries), is visit the 1st Rafting Adventure office along Tiano streets CDO (in front of Informatics).

Or you can call: 856-3514 / 8571270
Website: www.raftingadventurephilippines.com

The New Gaisano In Town!!!!!

2008-11-28T22:59:00.001-08:00

Hiding in the other side of Cogon market (near Ace de Oro), is the new Gaisano in town. It's not yet that noticeable cause the logo is still not in place, and the color is different from the other Gaisano's but it is one, and I bet a lot of people are happy to have another place top buy affordable grocery items in Cogon.

Here's how it looks inside. It's actually a three-storey building, but I haven't checked what in the 2nd and 3rd floor yet.
Not yet convinced?? Wait till these (see left side of the photo above) guys are done installing the logo.

Christmas Tree in Divisoria

2008-11-28T22:57:00.000-08:00

Divisoria Christmas Tree .... without lights yet.

Bingo sa CDO

2008-11-28T22:36:00.000-08:00

Do you know what these are? (Clue: They are not stock market monitors, and there's a nursery rhyme about it.)

Of course you know this... it goes like B-I-N-G-O!!!!

When you like to see veterans, retired employees, elders, or what we call "pensioners" nowadays, you don't have to go to the post office, GSIS, or event the Veterans bank. All you have to do is go to the nearest BINGO house.

In here you'll see people of all walks of life talking, concentrating, punching cards while holding a baby in the other hand, and seriously playing, and basically just having a great time playing with chances for a prize money.

I tried playing yeas ago, but I never won, so I guess that's an early retirement for me and the whole BINGO thing. But many people do win.. .so why not take your chances right? We all deserve to have a great time anyways.

Who knows.... this G 48 ball might just be the answer to your prayers.

Just make sure you don't get to spend the money you need for something else more important.

Last Look: Ororama Mega Center

2008-11-28T18:45:00.000-08:00

A night view of Ororama Mega Center

Ororama Megacenter (in Lapasan) has been one of the oldest mall-like establishments here in CDO, and it has already been one of the Landmarks for the fellow Kagay-anons. It used to be such a competitive store (like it's other branches), and even a place to go to every weekends for some weekend bowling activities or a theater movie, but ever since well developed malls came into the city, it become more of a divisoria type store selling ukay-ukay's, pirated DVD's / VCD's, and just about anything you can see in divisoria.

But on October 28, 2008, all are considered history as a wild a fire (which started at the 4th floor) broke down everything that was inside Ororama Megacenter. The fire lasted for 25 hours until it was declared to be consumed the next day. (see video footage here)

As expected , a lot of speculations had rise, but nothing has clearly been proven yet.

Will it rise again? Will it be another mall? Or will it soon be a part of something else? So many questions, yet only time can really tell.

Meet J. Ford

2008-11-28T02:27:00.000-08:00

My names Ford.... J. Ford....

Here's a little black and white photography from one of my photography moments in the side streets of Cogon (near trendline).

I hope you like it.

J. Ford is the name of the "trisikad" (not the driver) by the way.

CDO CHICKS!!!!!!

2008-11-28T00:44:00.000-08:00

Know any of these chikikas????

How bout this????...

Hahahaha.... Abtik gud diay mo basta chiks....

Say Letchon!!!! (with tiny voice)

2008-11-28T00:27:00.000-08:00

Note:
No actual pigs or piglets were harmed with this post.

We Pinoys, (specially Kagay-anons) are really known for our good taste of food, and there is one food in particular, that we all know we want everytime there is a gathering for any occasion.

We call it Letchon (hmmm....grilled pig?). A regular sized letchon costs around P2,000-P4,000 these days, and sometimes we just have to sacrifice not having one for a party due to our everyday financial crisis.

But not anymore, cause now we get to enjoy our favorite food for only P30. Im talking about the Letchon bread (available in many bakeries in CDO).

No this one's safe for people with high blood pressures, and definitely is fit for snacks, by the way.

Pin Cushion Lights

2008-11-27T06:13:00.000-08:00

You can call them whatever you want to call them, but they sure do look like Pin Cushions and Pins to me...

By the way, this photo was taken in Gaston Park in one of my clicking moments.

Where Do I Go?

2008-11-27T06:06:00.000-08:00

This is one of the photos I took while I was on my way to my jeepney ride, passing through De Leon building in Velez. (you can see the shadows of my legs in the scene)

This shows a homeless person, with his stuffs (or junk stuffs that can be sold, or used) sitting, smoking, and wondering where he's going to go next.

I hope this photo somehow makes us realize how lucky we are to have a place (rented or not) that we can call home.

Voltes V Tower

2008-11-27T05:57:00.000-08:00

I grew up believing this was where the robot in the movie Voltes V lives, and until now I really don't know what it is.

It has "De Oro Jaycees" written on it, but I don't think this is where they get to meet every once in a while, cause they can bee seen in Bo's Cafe all the time, but maybe... just maybe, this is where it al started for them.

Whoever knows the story, please be kind to help with some info.

Thanks in advance.

Breaking News!!!

2008-11-26T00:03:00.000-08:00

By MARK D. FRANCISCO
of MINDANAO GOLD STAR DAILY

NINE female minors coming from Cagayan de Oro City were rescued by local social welfare personnel in Cebu City after they were lured into trafficking.
In her report before the City Council committee on public safety yesterday (Wednesday, November 26, 2008), Cagayan de Oro acting social welfare officer Marisa Tagarda said the nine girls were aged 16 to 21.
They came from barangays Bonbon, Macasandig, Bugo, Camaman-an, Lapasan and Kauswagan.
These young women were rescued by personnel from the Crisis Intervention Unit of the Cebu City social welfare and development (CSWD) department at the port area of Cebu in the morning of November 13, 2008, Tagarda reported.
Tagarda added that the Crisis Intervention Unit of the Cebu City CSWD is maintaining personnel at the city’s entry points, particularly in its airports and ports, to track child trafficking situations.
She said the Crisis Intervention Unit personnel easily knew that the nine girls were victims of child trafficking because they huddled together at the port area lounge for a peculiarly longer time after their arrival.
The victims could not be easily reached by the media as of presstime but Tagarda said they are already under the custody of the Cebu City CSWD and are expected to arrive in Cagayan de Oro shortly.
Initial reports reaching Tagarda’s office indicated that the girls would be turned into prostitutes and sex slaves not just in Cebu but as far as Pangasinan province in Luzon.
“Gipasaligan kining mga bayehana kay maayo lagi modiskarte ilang recruiter,” Tagarda said.
No suspects have been arrested by the Cebu City law enforcement authorities because the victims were alone when spotted.
But Tagarda said they are looking into the angle that one of the victims’ parents are involved.
Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) director Senior Supt. Isagani Genabe, who was present in the City Council committee hearing, vowed to look into the case.
Committee chair Ian Mark Nacaya also said that the committee would study further actions that child trafficking in the city be prevented.

Lots of Christmas Trees in Gaisano City

2008-11-25T23:32:00.000-08:00

I usually hear people talking about how CDO City is starting to loose it's Christmas spirit. If you can remember, there used to be the much awaited "Christmas Tree Making Contests" somewhere in Gaston Park years ago, but these past few years the people haven't seen the fun anymore. Well, aside from the big Christmas tree in Divisoria (which I will be featuring tomorrow) I guess.

But in another city, there lies a lot of Christmas Trees with different colors and different styles, and they can all be seen in one place. They call it the City within the City.... and the name is Gaisano City.

And look, they also have a CoCo Christmas Tree. Only in "Gaisano.. Gaisano.... Sa Gaisano pa rin ako.... "

Pelaez Sports Center - Under Construction

2008-11-25T23:03:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken last Sunday, after an ice cream snack at Starmart Velez.

Some of you might be wondering what the Pelaez Sports Center looks like under construction, and the update of the of their progress so I decided to take some photos of the major construction they've made so far.

The oval is still under major construction in preparation for a rubberised track, and additional lanes.

You can see a lot of drilled holes and pipes around Pelaez Sports Center

The pool is still intact, but there are some constructions done in front

This is how it looks like.

Here's a will borrow / trash can reminding you to keep it clean

Here's how the bandstand looks like. Still Under construction.

But you can still see people practising their routines.

The side going to the Tennis Court

The widened track

And as always, there still are people maintaining a healthy with regular jogging and walking sessions.

More updates soon.

eerT samtsirhC Oh' Christmas Tree

2008-11-25T22:45:00.000-08:00

I have seen a lot Christmas trees in my life but never have I seen an inverted one my 23 years of celebrating the Holiday Seasons.

Some say it's bad luck, cause it's turned upside down, meaning we are attracting the opposite, but others say it's also practical cause we get to have more presents to display on the floor.

Well what can I say? They both have a point, so I guess I'll just leave it up to you to decide.

Advance Merry Christmas to everyone.

CDOBloggers Logo Ideas

2008-11-25T00:51:00.000-08:00

Along with other members of "CDOBloggers" (a NEW blogging community in CDO), I was tasked to come up with an idea of a logo that would best represent CDO in a bloggers way.

Other members have contributed their ideas and samples as well, but since we are not in line for exclusivity, I am inviting anyone to contribute any idea (in words or image) that would help us make the best logo possible.

Here are a few logo's we've come up with:

Feel free to post a link of your images, or descriptions of your ideas here, or simply email me at: cocoy000@gmail.com

Any form of help will be well appreciated.

Peso Saver - CDO Advertising Newspaper

2008-11-25T00:25:00.001-08:00

Does this look familiar?.... I'm sure it does cause I've seen it in almost every establishment there is in CDO (including parlors). No wonder they said it is the fastest growing advertising newspaper in the city.

This is actually a very good concept in terms of advertising and I believe it is highly beneficial for everyone here in the city (specially those who have their own businesses.

If you're interested, here are the prices:

Line Advertisements

Box Advertisement

And of course.. if there's anything you would like to ask or say, you may contact them at:

I hope this is helpful.

Blind Masseurs

2008-11-24T23:42:00.000-08:00

Right in the heart of CDO Divisoria lies a place where Kagay-anons (of all walks of life) meet to have a great time and have a much needed massage after a days work or two.

For only 40 pesos (plus optional tip), you get to enjoy one relaxing session as the Blind Masseurs gently applies their magical touches to your achy breaky backs, and a little "Chikka Chikka" (friendly talk) to make it a complete unwinding experience for you.
So if you ask me how to unwind and get a chance to help the blind?

Go to CDO Divisoria.

Jeep? Truck?

2008-11-24T23:27:00.001-08:00

photo taken in front of Trendline in Cogon

I was in the busy streets of Cogon one day when I saw this big ARMY Truck.... or jeep. I honestly don't know what they call it, but it's bigger than a normal jeep (not jeepney ok), and smaller than a normal six-wheeler.

If you look closely, you can see that the hood of the Jeep/Truck is almost in level with the head of the FishBall vendor, and that is a normal sized person by the way.

If anyone knows what kind if vehicle it is, I'd be glad to hear from you.

ATM - Automatic Tubig Machine

2008-11-24T23:08:00.000-08:00

Automatic Tubig Machine

I think it was two years ago when the first few ATM's (automatic tubig machine) hits the streets of CDO. I saw one near KSY in Carmen, and one in Divisoria (but I'm sure there are a lot).

The ATM is actually like a vending machine, but instead of the usual soda or snacks that comes out, you get to have water, which will be placed in a small ice-water-like plastic bag for a peso per serving.

It was actually something interesting at first, but I guess it didn't really make up for a good business in the city that's why it's slowly getting out of the scene.

By the way, I saw this ATM near the gate of Pelaez Sports Center, but it looks like it was junked for some time already.

Velez At Night

2008-11-24T22:35:00.000-08:00

Probably one of the "everybody knows" road in CDO is the famous Velez road, a very long road that seems to extend from the streets of Pabayo to Puntod, surrounded a lot of establishments and people selling very affordable shoes.

And this (above) is my shaky picture of Velez at night.

Big Pizon and Small Pizon

If you've been to Velez lately, then you'd probably find these things (above) familiar, as we all know that the road is still under construction.

The construction seems to flow smooth (except for some delays caused by timely rainy days),and everything will definitely be better after it's done.

A Rainbow in CDO - Gaston Park

2008-11-17T00:16:00.000-08:00

Rarely do we see a rainbow in a bright Sunday afternoon.

This was taken yesterday while me and my girlfriend were a the park outside the CDO cathedral. We were only suppose to get some seeds from a purple flower near the side of the oval, but as soon as the fountains were plashing, the rainbow came out, and there we were smiling in silence as we look at one of the sights we rarely see nowadays.

And we shared the view with hundreds of people of all ages, and gender, as they were on their way of having a family time after church.

Dinner @ TNT - Tiano-Velez Sts. CDO

2008-11-17T00:10:00.001-08:00

Are you looking for new place to have a nice lovely meal right in the heart of CDO?
Try TNT (Toppings Noodles Tapsi) located @ Hayes-Velez Sts. (Where Red Moon used to be).

TNT offers a very relaxing dining experience with a very colorful environment enough to make your meal worth every bite.
Picnic-like tables are also available, perfect for a closer dining and bonding experience with your barkadas, or family.

Whether it's a romantic dinner date or a getting-to-know-you over meal one, this place is highly recommended.
Plus, it's bright shining lights and city street view at night highly compliments the whole after-work relaxing moment.

The food is actually affordable for a decent restaurant, with prices that ranges from P 60 - P 80 per meal (drinks not yet included). We all know a dinner for two that's less than P 200 is something most of us are looking for right?

Here's what we ordered: (drinks not included in the photo)

alt="beef mushroom toppings, tnt, tiano velez cdo, toppings noodles tapsi" border="0" />
Beef Mushroom Toppings = P 70

alt="humba with egg toppings, tnt, tiano velez cdo, toppings noodles tapsi" border="0" />
Humba w/ Egg Toppings = P 65

And after around 10 mins. or so....

alt="no more beef mushroom toppings, tnt, tiano velez cdo, toppings noodles tapsi" border="0" />

You know this was coming... :)

And by the way, I just have to say that if you happen to visit the palce, I suggest you take time to see one of the best designed lamp (or light frame) I've seen in the city. This is pretty much ART itself and I knew I had to take a picture of it, so here it is.

alt="beautiful green light lamp, tnt, tiano velez cdo, toppings noodles tapsi" border="0" />

All this in one small restaurant. TNT, definitely a place worth trying for.

Transformers in CDO by: Coy

2008-11-16T23:35:00.000-08:00

WARNING!!!
The following events are subjects of my imagination.
The words in ORANGE are ENGLISH translations
(my best efforts..haha) I hope you'll enjoy this story.

suga (light)

Ni agto kog KetKai isa ka adlaw para makita akong ka "Wanted Palangga" ug mao kini ang na hitabo.
(I was walking around Lin Ket Kai Mall while I was waiting for my blind date from a radio program called "Wanted Lover")

Ni labay ko sa Atrium dapit, ug naka siplat kog kahayag. Murag suga nga di ma explain mo nang na intriga ko ug ako mi duol.
(I passed by the atrium and I noticed something glaring and shiny. It's like something I've never seen before, and being that curious, I went on to see what it is)

Ug mao kini akoong nakita (taas). Isa ka murag CD sa CDR King nga ga lupad ug naay walo (8) ka murag flourescent.. Ug akong gi picturan.
(And this is what I saw.. a disc shaped flying object similar to CDR King CD's, and has 8 lights that looked like flourescent lights. So I took a photo which you can see above)

Pag human nako ug picture, adunay mi gawas na murag ROBOT. Hala!!! Robot gud diay na green.
(Right after I took the shot, a robot-like creature came rumbling in. And shockingly I sad "OMG!! It's a green robot")

Akong gi picturan kalit ug inani ang iyang itsura. Naa cyay IKOG nga mu taas murag Scorpion kunuhay ug na abot ang atop sa Atrium. Inana ka dako... aw taas diay.
(I instantly took a picture of it, and this is how it looked like. It has a tail that of a scorpion like, a tail so long that it reached the roof of the atrium. That big, I mean that long.)

"Unsa ba kini nga robot???" - ingon sa mga stand bayers (bystanders). Ug sa dihang ni mobo iyang ikog nga murag ni naug kay tangalun ang escalator.
("What kind of robot is this???" - the stand-byers or bystanders said. And suddenly it kept it's tail while it seemingly aims for the escalator.)

Sa akong ka lingaw (hehe, ka hadluk bitaw), mi dagan na ako kay basin akong camera ang kwaun sunod (sayang mga pictures)... ug ayha pa ko naka hinumdum na naa man diay koy ka sabot.... 2 ka oras ang mi labay.
(My enjoyment or fear made me ran away from the thing, fearing that it may take my camera next... I would have missed some photos... and it was only then that I remembered.. that I wass suppose to be meeting someone for a blind date... 2 hours ago)

Busa para sa akong kasabot, mao kini akong mensahe: "Sorry maam... wa tuyua... Ikaw daw maka kitag robot... di ba ka taranta... " : )
(So for my blind date that night, "Sorry Maam... it wasn't intentional... if you have seen the robot, you would have done the same thing.")

The End!
(same)

Me, My Officemates, and the Alaska Aces @ Mapawa Adventure Park

2008-11-16T23:30:00.000-08:00

This is not in any way edited and this is 100% real. This was taken during our team building sessions with the ALASKA ACES at Mapawa Adventure park.

Wala pa ring tatalo sa Alaska....

St. Francis Xavier Statue - Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan

2008-11-16T23:27:00.000-08:00

A good photographer once said "sometimes light flashes through certain things and make them better.... all you need to have is a camera, and a lot of PATIENCE".

Fortunately, I had both so I took some photos of St. Francis Xavier's statue while I was re-visiting Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan yesterday.

And here's how it turned out.

I shall fight no more...

St. Francis Xavier sees the light of God.

CDO Handmade Crafts

2008-11-16T23:25:00.000-08:00

A visit in a great city like CDO can bring great memories. Memories worth treasuring for.

Lolita B. Cabanlet found a way to treasure these memories with a touch of the city. And there came CDO Handmade Paper Crafts.

CDO Handmade Paper Crafts brings grace and beauty into the designs of products that are inspired by happy contrasts of : old and new; perfect and imperfect; function and aesthetic; smooth and rough; straight and oblique; bright and subdued; joyous and soulful.

Products include:

eco green Gift Boxes

A gift in a box becomes a treasure especially if the box is made of all natural handmade paper. They come in various shapes such as round, heart, square, rectangle, star and cylinder.

All boxes are attached with matching gift tags.

eco green Gift Bags

A gift becomes more significant if it is placed in a unique handmade paper bag. Colors range from natural to dark and bright to pastel. Each color can best fit for any occasion.

All bags are attached with matching gift tags.

eco green Greeting Cards

In this digital age, sending greeting cards has remained the most thoughtful and loving act of a human being. It becomes more meaningful if the card used is made of acid-free natural handmade paper.

eco green Journal/Diaries

Write down your memories unfolding every single day on handmade paper books. Each handmade paper used in its pages is rolled to perfection to ensure that each written word is kept ink blot-free.

eco green Stationery Sets

Send letters of thanks and appreciation using the all natural handmade paper. Such simple act becomes really special and sometimes extraordinary.

eco green Photo Cards

Use these rustic photo cards made of natural handmade paper. Each design carries a contrasting look of smooth and rough, bright and subdued and perfect and imperfect. Each card is highlighted with locks made of coconut shells and twigs or bamboo which hauntingly evokes feelings of nostalgia.

eco green Photo Albums

Each photo album is originally designed and finely crafted by gifted Filipino Artisans. Each page is made of very fine, natural handmade paper made of abaca fiber and cogon grass. The acid-free handmade paper will preserve your photographs for generations.

For more info., and samples, visit: www.cdohandmade.com

CDO Cathedral

2008-11-16T23:23:00.000-08:00

The Augustinian Recollects first evangelized in what is now known as Cagayan de Oro City in 1622. The establishment of the first settlement is attributed to Fr. Agustin de San Pedro in 1626. The city was fomerly known as "Cagayan de Misamis" before it became the capital town of Segundo Distrito de Misamis in 1872. It became a city in 1950 when its name was changed into Cagayan de Oro and its San Agustin Cathedral was rebuilt.

White River Rafting @ CDO

2008-11-16T23:22:00.000-08:00

With the growing popularity of the "White River Rafting" adventure here in Cagayan de Oro City, it won't be a surprise if the city would be labeled as the best River Rafting spot in the Philippines.

Having to face more than 20 rapids, flowing in between two cities, and paddling your way to a two-hour great outdoor adventure is really something worth experiencing, not only for the Kagayanon's but of tourists as well.

No wonder why it's such a hit for thrill seekers and nature lovers, which includes some of the biggest names in the country (celebrities), foreign tourists, and even our President, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

CDO's white river rafting has already established it's name in the country, and it has always been a must-do whenever people visit the friendly Cagayan de Oro City, and is evident as several events, shows and reality shows in the country has already featured the adventure in several occasion. Truly, there is no better way to experience a heart-pumping adrenalin nature-trip rafting fun with your family and friends than to go rafting in CDO.

You will never forget your first White River Rafting adventure here in CDO, that's for sure. So if you're looking for a weekend getaway, Try CDO's "White River Rafting".

And don't forget to bring your friends and families as well.

Get to know... CDO.

For inqueries contact:

Mr. Dan Kaamiño
#21 Pres. Aguinaldo St., Cagayan de Oro City
tel: (088) 856-3972
cell: 09177122323

or email:

riverguide@cdorafting-map.com

High Ridge - A View of CDO

2008-11-16T23:14:00.000-08:00

High Ridge

On a hilltop in Aluba, lies one of the best romantic places in CDO. Many have not discovered it yet, but this place is the best place to get a glimpse of how CDO looks like on top (panoramic view) of Cagayan de Oro especially at night. The area used to be a commercial establishment but was closed down by the city for "zoning violation." Since then High Ridge has been open to the public.

Entrance fee is around 20 Pesos each, and you can bring food which is actually preferred by many, but strict policies (dress code, liquor bans, bringing pets, etc...) are highly imposed. Visitors are also requested to properly dispose off personal trash. Since there are no available public transportation in the area, it is highly advisable to hire a vehicle or taxi, or make sure you have taxi drivers on contact from the city.

Truly the best way to view CDO.