Cozy Weekend Stay at Crown Regency Residences Davao

Cozy Weekend Stay at Crown Regency Residences Davao

We stayed at Crown Regency Residences Davao for 2 nights, from September 29 to October 2, and it was a relaxing part of our short Davao trip. We checked in around 3 PM after visiting my Tita’s place nearby, and the process went smoothly.

Our accommodation included free breakfast, which was a nice deal since it normally costs around ₱450 per person if not part of the room package. On our first morning, we had a hearty meal of egg, longganiza, watermelon, and coffee — a Filipino classic. The next day, breakfast was ham with toasted bread, watermelon, and coffee, which kept us energized for the day ahead.

One of my favorite parts of our stay was spending the early morning by the pool. The water was clean, not overly chlorinated, and refreshingly cool — perfect for a quick dip. Before swimming, I even did a quick headstand by the poolside, though it didn’t last long because the sunblock I was wearing made my arms slippery, reducing friction.

We also dropped by the hotel gym before heading out on our second-day itinerary. It’s not large, but it’s enough for a quick workout. The restaurant and reception areas have a classic design theme, with elegant wooden furniture and warm lighting that adds a nostalgic charm.

Our room was cozy and clean, with a window that let in natural light every morning. The comfort room was also tidy, though it could use some fixture updates. One minor downside was that we missed room service cleaning — when we returned from a day out, the bedsheets were unchanged and there was no refill of toilet paper. Still, it didn’t spoil our overall stay because the room remained comfortable and relaxing.

Overall, Crown Regency Residences Davao is a nice place for a short couple stay — clean pool, cozy rooms, good breakfast, and a warm, homey atmosphere. A few updates on amenities and housekeeping routines would make the experience even better, but for its price and location, it’s definitely worth considering for your next Davao getaway.

Our 3D2N Davao Trip: Reconnecting with Family and Discovering the Beauty of the City

Heartfelt 3 Days and 2 Nights Family Trip to Davao City: Visiting Grandma and Exploring the Best of Davao

Traveling to Davao City has always been more than just a getaway — it’s a journey back home, filled with family memories, warm reunions, and heartfelt moments. Our 3 days and 2 nights trip to Davao City was both emotional and refreshing as we visited my grandmama in Mintal and my brother’s family in Mandug, while exploring some of the city’s must-visit destinations.

Day 1: Early Flight to Davao and a Heartwarming Reunion

Our adventure began early morning with a 6:00 AM flight, and after about an hour of travel, we landed safely at Davao International Airport around 8:00 AM. Since our check-in time at Crown Regency Hotel Davao was still at 2 PM, my Aunt kindly fetched us and brought us to their home in Mintal.

On our way, the tempting smell of fresh durian caught my attention. We stopped by a stall and bought the Puyat variety, one of the creamiest and sweetest durians in Davao — absolutely a must-try for fruit lovers.

When we reached my Aunt’s house, I finally saw my grandmama Nanay Loreta after a long time. She’s now 86 years old, bedridden, and still recovering after being hospitalized a few months ago. It truly broke my heart seeing her so frail and dependent on her caregiver. Yet, my heart was comforted when she recognized me and my husband despite her fading memory. We shared lunch together, enjoyed the durian, and spent a few precious hours talking and reminiscing.

In the afternoon, my Uncle drove us to the hotel for check-in. Crown Regency Hotel may not be modern, but it has a rustic charm — with its vintage furniture, spacious lobby, swimming pool, and gym. We took the rest of the day to relax and unwind.

That evening, we dined at Coco Bar, located just outside the hotel. Their buko pie and sisig meals were delicious, the perfect way to end our first day in Davao.

Day 2: Food Trip, Souvenirs, and Adventure in Davao City

The next day, we started our Davao adventure by riding a jeepney to Poblacion Mall, where we visited the famous Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp. — a well-loved restaurant known for their heavenly desserts. I also grabbed a few souvenirs to bring home.

For lunch, we went to Penong’s Grill House, one of the most popular local restaurants in Davao serving authentic grilled dishes that truly capture the Davao taste.

After our hearty lunch, we explored People’s Park — a vibrant green space filled with sculptures, fountains, and tropical plants. It’s one of the most relaxing places to walk around in the city. Then we visited the Davao Museum, where we learned more about the region’s culture, history, and indigenous heritage. The exhibits were fascinating and well-curated.
Later that afternoon, we returned to my Aunt’s home to pick up my niece, who helps take care of my grandmama, before heading to Davao Crocodile Park. But before that, we dropped by at the public cemetery in Ulas to visit my Lolo Cristutu's resting place. We finally visited him for almost 16 years. I wasn't able to attend on his funeral because I'm about to give birth on our 3rd child that time. After there, we moved to the next visit. We arrived just before closing time, but still got to enjoy the experience. The entrance fee was ₱450 per person, and it was worth every peso seeing the crocodiles, birds, and other animals up close.
From there, my Uncle suggested we head to Mandug to visit my brother and his family. We stopped by my Aunt’s house along the highway but since no one heard us, we continued to my brother’s place. Seeing him again after so long brought me so much joy. We dined together at Charles Kitchen and Sizzling House, ordering a feast of beef steak, lumpia, fish fillet, buttered chicken, sisig, bam-i, and of course, 3 liters of Coca-Cola to share. We had fun conversations over dinner, even as the rain poured outside. It was truly a wonderful family night.

Day 3: Philippine Eagle Center and a Tearful Goodbye

On our last day, my Uncle picked us up early from the hotel and we visited the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, Baguio District. Entrance fee was ₱300 per person plus an environmental fee of ₱5. A student tour guide warmly welcomed us and led the tour, introducing us to the majestic Philippine Eagles, reptiles, monkeys, and other wildlife.

We saw Vigo, the famous eagle featured on the ₱1,000 bill, and learned about their conservation programs and how people can “adopt” an eagle by donating. We also saw the Burmese python, crocodiles, monkeys, and even a massive Lego-built Philippine Eagle frame — truly impressive. Before leaving, we bought souvenirs and fed the fish at the pond.

After the tour, we stopped by my grandmama’s home once more to say goodbye. It was an emotional moment — she cried, and so did I. But I promised to visit her again soon, in God’s grace.

By 1:00 PM, we were already on our way back to the Davao International Airport for our flight home, hearts full of love and memories.

Final Thoughts

Our 3 days and 2 nights in Davao City was a meaningful mix of family reunion and local adventure. From the taste of fresh Puyat durian and flavorful Penong’s grill dishes to the heart-touching moments with my grandmama, every part of this trip reminded me of the beauty of family and the richness of Davao’s culture.

If you’re planning a family trip to Davao, include People’s Park, Davao Museum, Crocodile Park, and the Philippine Eagle Center on your itinerary. But above all, don’t forget to reconnect with your loved ones — because no journey is more memorable than the one that brings you closer to family.

Grilled Pork Ribs Marinated with Wine and Oyster Sauce


Grilled Pork Ribs Marinated with Wine and Oyster Sauce

There is something comforting about a midday meal that combines smoky, savory meat, tender seasoned rice, and bright, juicy fruit. These grilled pork ribs marinated with wine and oyster sauce make a flavorful centerpiece for lunch. Paired with simple rice sushi and chilled watermelon, the meal is balanced, colorful, and satisfying. Below is a step by step guide to prepare the whole lunch, plus tips to make it shine.

Ingredients:

For the pork ribs marinade

1 kilogram pork ribs
1 half cup cooking wine, red or white
3 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

For the rice sushi
2 cups cooked short grain rice or sushi rice
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Nori sheets

Fillings: cucumber strips, avocado slices, imitation crab or cooked shrimp (optional)

For the side

1 small watermelon, sliced into wedges or cubes

Equipment you will need

Grill or grill pan
Bowl for marinating
Rice paddle or wooden spoon
Sushi mat or clean kitchen towel if rolling sushi

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Make the marinade and marinate the ribs
In a bowl, whisk together cooking wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, honey or sugar, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and chopped onion if using.
Trim excess fat from the ribs and pat them dry with paper towels.
Place the ribs in a shallow dish or resealable bag, pour the marinade over the ribs, and turn to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours. For best depth of flavor, marinate overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the rice sushi seasoning and rice
Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Gently fold the mixture into warm cooked rice using a cutting motion so the rice stays plump and glossy. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
If you want simple rice balls, shape the rice into small mounds with lightly wet hands. For rolls, lay a nori sheet on a mat, spread an even layer of rice, add fillings, then roll and seal.

Step 3: Grill the pork ribs
Preheat the grill to medium heat. If using charcoal, allow it to reach a steady medium temperature.
Remove ribs from the marinade and let excess drip off. Reserve the leftover marinade to brush during grilling but do not reuse marinade that touched raw meat unless you boil it first.
Grill ribs for about 20 to 30 minutes depending on thickness, turning occasionally. Baste with the reserved marinade that has been boiled or with a fresh brush of the marinade early on. Cook until ribs are tender and slightly charred at the edges.
Let the ribs rest for five minutes before slicing between the bones.

Step 4: Plate and serve with watermelon
Arrange sliced ribs on a wooden board or platter. Place rice sushi or shaped rice beside the ribs for easy sharing.
Add a bowl or platter of chilled watermelon cubes or wedges to refresh the palate.
Garnish with thinly sliced scallions or toasted sesame seeds on the rice sushi for visual contrast.

Serving suggestions and variations

Add a crisp green salad or quick pickled cucumber to add acidity.
Swap the cooking wine for a splash of sake for a milder aroma.
For sticky, caramelized ribs, finish under a hot broiler for two to three minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Make the rice sushi vegetarian by using mango and cucumber or keep it classic with crab stick and avocado.

Why this combination works

The savory richness and slight sweetness from the wine and oyster sauce marinated ribs contrast beautifully with the clean, slightly tangy rice sushi. Watermelon acts as a light, hydrating counterpoint, cleansing the palate between bites. Together they create a full meal with texture, color, and balanced flavors.

Quick tips for home cooks

Marinating longer improves flavor but do not exceed 48 hours for best texture.
Use short grain rice for sushi style texture. Rinse rice until water runs mostly clear before cooking.
Keep watermelon chilled and cut just before serving to preserve juiciness.
If you want a smoky flavor without a grill, sear ribs in a hot pan then finish in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius until tender.  

    A Birthday Celebration on St. Michael’s Day Fiesta

    A Birthday Celebration on St. Michael’s Day Fiesta

    This year, my birthday felt extra special as it fell on St. Michael’s Day, the fiesta of Iligan City, and also coincided with the Argao, Cebu fiesta where our youngest daughter is currently studying at Philippine Science High School in Argao. It was a day filled with simple joys, meaningful moments, and memorable celebrations.

    The morning started with sending our youngest daughter off to her school carpool. From there, I headed to Super Metro to pick up a petite cake from Swiss Cottage Bake Shop aside from the big whole cake, a little treat to mark the occasion. Right after, I stopped by a flower shop near the Birhin sa Regla Church to pick up 2 dozen long stem fresh roses, which added a lovely touch of color and fragrance to the day.

    Next on the schedule was my birthday photo shoot at Uclick Studio. I truly enjoyed the 30-minute pictorial with my husband by my side. It was a fun and lighthearted way to capture this milestone in photos that I’ll treasure for years to come.

    Afterwards, we made our way to Sacred Heart Church in Marigondon to light candles and offer prayers of gratitude for another year of life. This quiet moment of reflection was grounding and meaningful before we continued the day’s celebration.

    For lunch, my husband and I went to Cebu White Sands Resort. Since the kids were busy with their home school, it turned into a beautiful midday date by the beach. The ambience was serene with the pool glistening under the sun and the waves creating a relaxing soundtrack. We savored a delicious lunch at the resort’s beachside restaurant, where their signature seafood dishes and refreshing tropical drinks perfectly complemented the view. It was a calming escape and a chance for us to enjoy each other’s company.

    Later in the day, we went home to pick up our two sons, then stopped by my sister’s house to fetch my mother so she could join us for dinner. Together, we headed to Kubo Restobar at IT Park. The restobar’s lively yet cozy ambience, with its rustic bamboo-inspired interiors and laid-back music, set the tone for a cheerful evening. Our sons enjoyed their orders of bacon Alfredo pasta and grilled meat cooked on the wok, while the rest of us delighted in Kubo’s signature Filipino-inspired meals that are perfect for sharing. It was the perfect way to cap off my special day with family laughter and good food.

    We went home afterward to rest and start packing for our flight out of town the next day. Looking back, I am grateful for the balance of quiet, intimate moments and joyful family gatherings that made my birthday truly meaningful.

    A Poolside Birthday Celebration at Mactan Newtown Beach, Lapu-Lapu City

    A Poolside Birthday Celebration at Mactan Newtown Beach, Lapu-Lapu City
    We had the privilege of celebrating my brother-in-law’s birthday at Mactan Newtown Beach in Lapu-Lapu City. The event is officially from 5 pm to 10 pm, but because we first fetched our son from his Boy Scout camping, we arrived around 7 pm.
    By 8 pm, most guests had left, and the pool felt like it was ours alone. The water glowed under the underwater and ambient lights, and the night air brought a gentle breeze that made swimming even more delightful. The beach area was already closed at that time for safety, but we had our fill of the sea on previous visits, so focusing on the pool was just fine for us.
    One of the highlights was the unlimited buffet served that evening. The spread included grilled meats (chicken, beef, pork), seafood (fish, shrimp, shellfish), pasta dishes, stir-fried vegetables, fresh salads, local Filipino favorites (e.g. kinilaw, adobo, pancit), and a dessert corner with cakes, sweets, and fresh fruits. Dining by the pool, watching the gentle ripples and soft lighting, made for a cozy and festive mood.

    More than food, it was an evening rich in family connection. My husband’s brothers gathered, including the birthday celebrant, who graciously treated us all. I’m deeply grateful for his generosity, and I pray for many blessings and good health for him. I also valued time spent one-on-one with my sister-in-law — our woman-to-woman conversations brought added warmth to the night.
    We exited the pool around 9 pm so we could head out for weekend groceries before the stores closed. It was important: our youngest child was due to return to her boarding school the next day, and she needed essentials for her dorm stay.
    Overall, it was a perfect mix of celebration, relaxation, and family bonding. Mactan Newtown Beach delivered on experience, food, and ambiance — making the birthday truly memorable.
    About Mactan Newtown Beach — Business Hours & Buffet Deals
    Here are the up-to-date details about operating hours and buffet promos at Mactan Newtown Beach:The resort is now open daily, with beach and pool access included during operating hours. 
    • Dinner buffet hours run from 6 pm to 10 pm on Friday through Sunday, priced at ₱850 per person. 
    • On weekdays, there’s also a dinner buffet deal (evening) available, though often at a lower rate. 
    • In the daytime, there is a lunch buffet option (for walk-in guests) which includes pool and beach access. 
    • Day-use rates: for instance, from 6 am to 6 pm there are inclusive packages (beach + pool + buffet) and afternoon ala carte options. 

    A Wholesome Carrot Cake Recipe for Breakfast

    A Wholesome Carrot Cake Recipe for Breakfast

    There’s something so comforting about starting the day with a warm, homemade breakfast that feels both nourishing and delicious. This morning, I decided to bake a simple carrot cake using ingredients I already had at home. The result? A light and wholesome treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

    What makes this carrot cake special is its balance of natural sweetness and hearty texture. By using oats, chia seeds, and honey, I was able to create a breakfast that not only satisfies cravings but also provides lasting energy throughout the morning.

    Ingredients I Used:

    • * 1 whole carrot, finely grated
    • * 2 brown eggs
    • * 2 tablespoons oats
    • * 1 tablespoon chia seeds
    • * 2 to 3 tablespoons honey (depending on your preferred sweetness)
    • * A splash of skim milk
    • * A small knob of butter for serving

    How to Prepare This Simple Carrot Cake:

    • 1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • 2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs until light and fluffy.
    • 3. Add the grated carrot, oats, chia seeds, honey, and a splash of skim milk. Mix well until everything is combined.
    • 4. Pour the mixture into a small greased baking dish or muffin cups.
    • 5. Bake for about 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • 6. Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Spread a little butter on top while still warm for that extra indulgent flavor.

    The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. The natural sweetness of the carrot and honey blends perfectly with the wholesome oats and chia seeds. The butter on top adds a rich finish that makes each bite satisfying without feeling heavy.

    Why This Carrot Cake is Great for Breakfast

    This isn’t your overly sweet, frosted dessert-type carrot cake. Instead, it’s a lighter version made for mornings when you want something tasty yet nourishing. The oats and chia seeds provide fiber, the eggs add protein, and the carrots bring in natural vitamins. Paired with coffee or tea, it’s the perfect way to start the day on a wholesome note.

    If you’re looking for a quick and healthy breakfast idea that still feels like a treat, this carrot cake recipe is worth trying. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and most importantly, homemade with love.

    Dinner at Ribshack SM Hypermarket Lapu-Lapu City: Our Go-To BBQ Spot

    Dinner at Ribshack SM Hypermarket Lapu-Lapu City: Our Go-To BBQ Spot

    When it comes to weekend dinners after doing the grocery run at SM Hypermarket Lapu-Lapu City, our quick and reliable choice is always Ribshack. This BBQ house has been one of our favorites for a while now, and it’s the kind of place where you know you’ll get tasty food, fast service, and a satisfying meal every time.

    On our latest visit, we went for some of their bestsellers:

    • * Grilled Spare Ribs – smoky, tender, and flavorful, perfect with unlimited rice.
    • * Classic BBQ – juicy and well-marinated, a Filipino favorite done right.
    • * Grilled Marlin – fresh and perfectly grilled, a great option if you want something lighter.

    For beverages, we usually switch it up depending on our mood — sometimes we go for iced tea, other times cucumber lemonade, or simply stick to water.

    Ribshack Menu

    Aside from our usual orders, Ribshack offers a wide range of grilled and Filipino-style dishes. Their menu includes:

    • * Pork and chicken BBQ
    • * Spare ribs (their specialty)
    • * Grilled fish and seafood options
    • * Pork belly
    • * Sisig
    • * Fried chicken
    • * Combo meals with unlimited rice
    • * Side dishes like atchara, soup, and veggies

    Quick Serving Time

    Another thing we appreciate is that food doesn’t take too long to arrive. Typically, it only takes about 10–15 minutes of waiting, which makes it perfect for families who want to eat right after shopping.

    Ambience and Accessibility

    The ambience at Ribshack is simple and casual — it’s the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy your food, and not feel rushed. Located inside SM Hypermarket Lapu-Lapu City, it’s very accessible whether you’re doing groceries, shopping, or just dropping by for a meal.

    Hygiene and Cleanliness

    The restaurant maintains good hygiene standards. Tables are kept clean, utensils are neatly prepared, and the dining area feels well-maintained.

    Service

    The staff are friendly, attentive, and approachable. They’re quick to take orders, serve food, and accommodate any extra requests, which makes the overall dining experience smooth and pleasant.

    Business Hours

    Ribshack usually follows the mall hours of SM Hypermarket Lapu-Lapu City, which means they’re open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. This makes it convenient for both lunch and dinner visits.

    For us, Ribshack has become our go-to BBQ spot whenever we’re in Lapu-Lapu City. The food is flavorful, serving time is quick, the place is clean, and the staff are always ready to assist. Plus, nothing beats the joy of unlimited rice paired with grilled specialties!

    If you’re around SM Hypermarket and looking for a casual, budget-friendly, and satisfying place to eat, Ribshack is definitely worth a try.

    Boy Scout Investiture Ceremony and Backyard Camping at STEC Lapu-Lapu City

    We recently had the privilege of attending our son’s Senior High Boy Scout of the Philippines Investiture Ceremony and backyard camping held at the Science and Technology Education Center (STEC) in Lapu-Lapu City. It was a meaningful afternoon that marked a new chapter for less than 20 young men who chose to take part in the Boy Scout movement.

    Unlike larger public schools, the number of participants was smaller since these students belong to the science class track, where they are carefully selected. This made the event more intimate and organized, with each participant being recognized as a potential future leader. As parents, we are deeply proud that our son is now officially a Boy Scout of the Philippines, stepping into a role where he can inspire and be a model to his peers.

    The ceremony itself lasted for about an hour. Because the group was not too crowded, everything went smoothly. One of the most moving parts was the recital of the 12 Scout Laws. Hearing these young men commit themselves to values of honesty, discipline, and service gave me hope that they will carry these principles into their lives and grow into responsible leaders of tomorrow.

    Another highlight of the afternoon was when I was asked by the Scout Master to represent the parents in reciting the Parents’ Pledge. It was truly an honor to stand before these new Boy Scouts, their teachers, and fellow parents, affirming our support for their journey.

    This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of organizations like the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. Beyond the lessons we teach at home, these programs provide our children with opportunities to build character, practice leadership, and develop a sense of service to the community. I would encourage every parent to consider letting their sons or daughters join the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) or Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP). The values and experiences they gain will shape them into better leaders and responsible citizens of our country.

    A Morning Boost: Steamed Veggies with Tuna Ciabatta and Coffee


    A Morning Boost: Steamed Veggies with Tuna Ciabatta and Coffee

    There’s something special about starting the morning with food that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Imagine the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air while a plate of vibrant steamed broccoli and carrots waits beside a warm slice of toasted olive ciabatta. On top of that bread sits a mix of tuna, egg, and cucumber—simple, fresh, and delicious.

    This breakfast isn’t complicated, but it brings together flavors and textures that make you feel ready to take on the day.
    What You'll Need?
    For the veggies:
    • * 1 cup broccoli florets
    • * ½ cup carrot slices
    • * ½ cup purple cabbage slices
    • * Olive oil, just a drizzle
    • * Pinch of salt
    For the ciabatta topping:
    • * 2 slices olive ciabatta bread
    • * 1 small can of tuna (drained)
    • * 2 boiled egg, sliced
    • * ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
    • * Black pepper, to taste
    And of course:
    • * 1 cup of your favorite coffee

    How to Prepare
    • 1. Steam the broccoli and carrots until tender but still bright in color. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and a pinch of salt once cooked.
    • 2. Toast the ciabatta until the edges are crisp and golden.
    • 3. Top the bread with tuna, add slices of boiled egg and cucumber, then finish with a touch of black pepper.
    • 4. Serve everything together with a cup of hot coffee.

    Why You’ll Love It

    The veggies bring a fresh crunch, the ciabatta gives that hearty bite, and the tuna-egg combo makes it satisfying without being heavy. The cucumber cools the palate, while the coffee ties it all together with a comforting warmth. It’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet light, the kind of breakfast that keeps you fueled through the morning.

    Give it a try—you might find yourself making it more often than you expect.

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