A Heartfelt Lunch at Hukad – Ayala Terraces, Cebu

A Heartfelt Lunch at Hukad – Ayala Terraces, Cebu

Last weekend felt extra special. After the awarding ceremony at Golden Prince Hotel & Suites (which we still can’t stop celebrating!), we headed to Hukad at Ayala Terraces in Cebu City for lunch — and it became a convivial family moment we’ll remember for many more years.

What made it so memorable? My mother — the “Lola” of our children, the steady hand who cared for them when they were young — joined us for those few precious hours, and we gathered around a table laden with favourite Filipino dishes, laughter, stories, and gratitude.

The Setting & Why We Chose It

Located at Level 2 of The Terraces, Hukad’s Ayala Terraces branch has been well-reviewed for its cozy family atmosphere and hearty Cebuano-style menu. We knew for our little celebration — post-award, with Mom in tow — this would be the right place: familiar, friendly, and with enough crowd-pleasing dishes to keep everyone happy.
It was also a treat that the food felt festive without being overly formal — just right for our “special but relaxed” lunch.

What We Ordered (and Loved)

Here’s a rundown of our feast — heartfelt, home-style, and plenty to go around:

  • Crispy Pata – A star for the group: crunchy skin, juicy meat, perfect for sharing.

  • Pochero – Comforting, warm, with rich broth and savoury beef/pork chunks (depending on the version).

  • Squid Calamares – Light, crisp-edged rings, the kind everyone reaches for.

  • Pork Sisig – Sizzling, a little tangy, great with plain rice.

  • Ginataang Monggos – For a change of pace: creamy, mellow, subtly indulgent.

  • Tuna Panga – Meaty tuna jaw/cheek grilled (we opted the “panga” version) — seafood lovers’ delight.

  • Tinolang Shrimp – A soothing soup-dish to balance the richness.

  • Platter Plain Rice – Unlimited rice is a comfort (and can feed a hearty table).

  • Lemon Cucumber & Iced Tea Pitchers – Refreshing drinks for the group, approachable and familiar.

  • Dessert: Ube Ice Cream Buko Delight – We ended the meal on a sweet high, and the “Lola” especially enjoyed this treat.

It was a full-table spread, but that’s what a celebration lunch is about — good food, full plates, and full hearts.

Why It Felt Even More Special

  • Having my mother present made the meal deeply meaningful — she helped us when our children were little, and this lunch was a way to honour and thank her.

  • Coming after the awarding at Golden Prince Hotel & Suites, the lunch felt like an extension of celebration: the milestone was achieved, and now we relaxed together over food.

  • The choice of Hukad meant we weren’t in a formal banquet hall but still opted for an elevated family-style restaurant — so everyone felt comfortable, from Mom to the kids.

  • The shared dishes invited conversation: “Try a bit of this crispy pata,” “Have some ginataang monggos,” “How’s your drink, Mom?” — the kind of interaction that nourishes as much as the food.

Menu Highlights at Hukad

While every branch may vary slightly, Hukad’s menu offers a robust range of Filipino favourites. According to their site: “Over 100 dishes to choose from.”
Examples include:

  • Fresh starters (calamares, baked scallops)

  • Soups and comfort dishes: sinigang, tinola, ginataang monggo

  • Meat-centric main dishes: crispy pata, pork sisig, lechon varieties

  • Seafood platters and grilled specials including tuna panga.

  • Desserts and refreshing beverages: from halo-halo & turon to fruit shakes.

Because our lunch featured a mix of these (crispy pata, sisig, monggos, tuna panga, etc.), we were able to sample a broad swath of the menu and satisfy everyone’s appetite.

Operating Hours & Address

Here are the details for the Ayala Terraces branch:
Address: Level 2, The Terraces, Arch. Reyes Avenue & Bohol Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines.
Operating Hours (typical): 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
It’s always wise to call ahead especially for larger tables or special occasions (we did!).

This lunch at Hukad wasn’t just about eating out — it was a milestone-marker. Our family — three generations sitting together — post-award, sharing dishes, laughter, thanks. The food was hearty and familiar, the environment comfortable, and the company priceless.

For anyone visiting Cebu City, looking for a place that does Filipino fare done right, especially in a group or family setting, I’d highly recommend Hukad at Ayala Terraces. If you go, relish the crispy pata, try a soup dish, share some seafood, and don’t forget dessert.

Thank you, Mama, for being there. And thank you to Hukad for accommodating us and making our lunch feel like more than just a meal — it felt like celebration.

Celebrating STEM Excellence: YES Awarding 2025 by DOST-SEI

Celebrating STEM Excellence: YES Awarding 2025 by DOST-SEI

The Youth Excellence in Science (YES) Awarding 2025 by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) was recently held at Golden Prince Hotel & Suites in Cebu City. The event honored outstanding students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) who have excelled in various local and international competitions.


This year’s ceremony recognized exceptional young achievers from across the Visayas region, including students from Marie Ernestine School, Philippine Science High School – Central Visayas Campus, schools in Lapu-Lapu City, Naga City in Cebu, and Bohol. The prestigious gathering was attended by parents, coaches, school administrators, and officials and staff of DOST-SEI, all united in celebrating the brilliance and hard work of these young Filipino innovators.

Our family is deeply proud that our two sons were among the Visayas awardees of the YES Award 2025. They earned this recognition through their remarkable participation in the World Robot Olympiad 2023 held in Panama and the World Robot Olympiad 2024 in Turkey, both under the RoboSports Category. Representing the Philippines on the global stage was a remarkable experience that strengthened their skills, teamwork, and passion for robotics.

The awarding program started at 1:00 PM with registration and lasted until around 3:00 PM. It was filled with moments of pride, applause, and heartfelt inspiration as each student received recognition for their dedication to STEM excellence. The atmosphere at Golden Prince Hotel & Suites reflected the shared joy of parents and mentors who have supported these young minds throughout their journey.

The DOST-SEI YES Award continues to serve as an important platform to inspire and encourage students to pursue careers in science and technology. Every medal and certificate symbolizes years of perseverance, innovation, and the drive to make a difference in the world through STEM.

As parents, we are grateful to DOST-SEI for recognizing the efforts and achievements of these brilliant Filipino students. The 2025 YES Awarding Ceremony truly highlights the bright future of Philippine science and the next generation of innovators who will lead our country toward progress.

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. 
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