Adto Ta Cagayan!

W E ’ L L TA K E YO U T H E R E

Volume 3 Issue 2 |May - August 2025

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p29 - p34

5 Reasons Why Cagayan de Oro is Best for Adventures

Higalaay Festival: What to look forward to at Cagayan de Oro’s Festival

Cagayan de Oro, Philippines

www.chelsealogistics.ph

5 reasons why Cagayan de Oro is best for adventures

Cagayan de Oro is already a wonder itself. But what makes your trip even more memorable are the thrilling adventures at the various attractions that Cagayan De Oro has in store.

PHOTO BY Mark Ceniza | facebook.com/laagnimarkee

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Seven Seas Waterpark Resort

I-ready mo na ang iyong bonggang swimming attire, at magbaon ng marami-raming tapang at lakas ng loob to try all the extreme water slides at Seven Seas Waterpark. This pirate-themed waterworld is best for family outings, providing different water activities that kids and adults would love. One of their extreme and popular waterslides to try out is the Pacific Racer; it is a three-tube speed challenge where participants

race against each other into a claustrophobic spiral, 15 meters above ground, in a high speed exit 100 meters away. If that’s not extreme enough, you can also try The Cyclone. It is the largest water slide in the Philippines that can accommodate a four-person raft which drops from a six storey launch tube. Some of their rides includes; Riptide Reef Boomerang Slide, Plank Drop, Captain Kidd’s Hideout Kiddie Pool, The Mighty Maui River, and Buccaneer Bay Dual Wave Pool.

PHOTOS BY The Explorer’s Channel www.theexplorerschannel.com ”Seven Seas Water Park” December 21, 2017

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PHOTO BY Maaya Legaspi www. maayalegaspi.com ”Whitewater Rafting” April 16, 2016

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Whitewater Rafting This activity is not for the faint hearted, but it will definitely set your heart to complete your Cagayan de Oro experience.

Whitewater rafting is an extreme water sport open to anyone who is courageous enough to paddle the trails of the Cagayan de Oro river.

The strong current will make you paddle hard

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for your life, adding a thrilling experience that soothes up as you reach the finish line. The calm waters at the end welcome you to relax and seize the moment. If you’re just in it for the experience, there’s no need to worry as they also have streams perfect for beginners.

Lifeguards and trained guides are also positioned around the area, ensuring your safety as you create unforgettable memories.

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Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub

Feel too old for a children’s playground? Worry no more because Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub offers an adult version of a playground filled with thrilling adventures like rappelling, zipline, maze adventures, bungee trampoline, ball pits, and more! It’s the best way to test your limits and challenge your physical abilities. Just like in life, overcoming obstacles brings us so much joy as we realize our greatest strengths.

PHOTOS BY The Explorer’s Channel www.theexplorerschannel.com ”Paragliding at Sierra del Oro” May 4, 2017

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Paragliding at Sierra del Oro

Have you ever dreamed of flying?

Cagayan de Oro is about to fulfill your wish because at Sierra del Oro you have the opportunity to soar high and float through the skies. You can just simply relax and enjoy the view as a trained paraglider accompanies you and lets you indulge the scenic view of Cagayan de Oro. What’s the best way to appreciate and be mesmerized by Cagayan de Oro’s landscape? I bet it’s enjoying it with a bird’s eye view through paragliding!

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Mapawa Nature Park

Mapawa Nature Park is a great spot to complete your nature trip. This 2,500 land is abundant with magnificent waterfalls, scenic views, and exciting activities nestled in the forest park in Cugman. This park offers a haven for both

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solitude and excitement seeking individuals.

Rappel from a 65 foot waterfall. Take a leisure stroll on horseback. Dip in its spring-fed swimming pools or take the gripping ziplines.

The park also caters to group events and conducts eco-lectures and team-building activities for companies and groups.

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Describe CDO in one word Tsada - Means Good/Nice

Suggest a place to stay in CDO

Downtown will be a good area since it is where the action is, but if you have extra time you may want to drive to Bukidnon or Claveria for you to be close to nature and reset. Camiguin is also an interesting site to check out.

If CDO were a person, who will it be and why?

My Nanay (Grandmother) because she was very hardworking, busy to earn a living just like the bustling city of CDO.

Mark Ceniza

“

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laagnimarkee markceniza

markceniza88 markceniza88

As someone coming from Cebu, CDO is a city with quite similar features, so whenever I arrive in CDO, I always head to Bukidnon where my close relatives are. I can relax and connect with nature since they are from the town of Impasugong - where the popular communal ranch is located.

If you will be given P1,000 to travel CDO, what’s the first thing you will do?

I will go camping to enjoy the fresh air and nature

What’s your most memorable experience in CDO?

Water rafting - it was a thrilling adventure!

What do you wish you knew before you went to CDO? Local food is very underrated - must try their Sinuglaw.

Mish Bello

“

mishbello04

Respect local customs, bring comfortable footwear, always bring cash and plan your itinerary before going to CDO to save time and to avoid inconvenience

What’s something interesting you have learned from your CDO trip?

Locals are always eager to help, make tourists feel safe, and is a solo traveler-friendly place.

Place to Stay Seda Centrio C.M. Recto, corner Corrales Ave, Cagayan de Oro, 9000

Place to Eat Cucina Higala FJJV+PC4, 222 Capistrano St, Cagayan de Oro, 9000 Misamis Oriental

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Name three travel essentials that came in handy during your CDO trip

Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a waterproof bag for outdoor activities.

What do you wish you knew before you went to CDO? The best time to visit for fewer crowds and optimal weather.

Travel tips for going to CDO

Stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothing, and footwear, and be prepared for adventure!

#FavoriteCDOFood

Sinuglaw - a delicious dish combining grilled pork belly and kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices).

#FavoriteCDOPlace

Dahilayan Adventure Park, for its thrilling zipline and beautiful mountain views.

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“

As I’ve traveled to CDO, I learned about the rich culture and history of the indigenous tribes in the region.

Fresie Dolores

Tayong mga Pinoy ay mahihilig sa musika. Sino ba ang hindi? Music gives us this feeling of satisfaction that other mundane things can’t satisfy. It uplifts our mood, fulfills our deepest and sweetes desires, and opens our minds and hearts to possibilities we never knew existed before us. They coined this feeling as ‘Music Therapy’ – totoong termino ito na ginagamit ng mga propesyunal sa larangan to interpret how music affects someone.

In this issue we listed 5 of your favorite Kagayanon artists that you should listen to, to set the mood for your Cagayan de Oro trip.

Palagi by TJ Monterder, a song about commitment and love.

Much like the song, isama ang iyong ‘palagi’ as you explore the vast and breathtaking destinations in Cagayan de Oro. Sabay na lagpasan ang mga alon sa Whitewater rafting o patatagin ang inyong mga sikmura na subukan ang remember me soup. With your ‘palagi’ waging wagi ang vacation this season!

Pagsamo by Nery Arthur

Miss Miss by Rob Deniel

Nagsusumamo narin ba ang iyong puso na subukan ang tourist adventure sa Cagayan de Oro? From Whitewater Rafting, SevenSeas Water Park, to Paragliding at Sierra del Oro and witnessing their grand Higalaay Festival, talagang fill your heart’s desire with what Cagayan de Oro can offer.

Miss mo narin ba? Miss mo narin bang mag-unwind? Magnature trip? at Magtampisaw?

Kase ako hindi ko na mapagkakailang miss ko na—siya, char! Listen to miss na miss

by Rob Deniel para lalo mong maramdaman ang pagkasabik mong ma-explore ang inaasam asam mong gala sa Cagayan de Oro na muntik pang maging drawing!

Amakabogera by Maymay Entrata Embrace that main character vibe on your journey to Cagayan de Oro and jive in with Amakabogera by Maymay Entrata. This song embodies self-empowerment that everybody should have! Kaya ano pang hinihintay mo?

Flaunt that body, wear that dress, put on that lipstick, and bring your unfaltering confidence during your Cagayan de Oro trip!

I’m Wrong by KRNA Kung soul-searching at self-reflection ang trip mo this vacation season, KRNA Band with their song I’m wrong is your ultimate companion and crying shoulder. With their hit song I’m Wrong, talagang mapapa isip ka sa mga naging desisyon mo sa buhay. Pero sige ilabas mo lang lahat ‘yan at pagbalik mo, welcome the new you na mas stronger, better, at ready nang harapin ulit ang buhay.

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Soup No. 5/Remember Me Soup at Remy’s Balbacua From its name, Remember Me Soup, or Soup No.5 is a specialty that you will definitely remember as it highlights a unique ingredient that can either toughen or cripple your tongue; balls and penis, particularly of bulls or Toro.

This exotic delight is a crowd’s favorite among

Kagay-anons in Cagayan de Oro as they believe in its aphrodisiac effects and healing properties–however, the true nature of this soup lies in its flavor. It is umami in every bite– perfectly seasoned with pinoy herbs and spices–blend together with more proteins like beef meat, and beef strife o tuwalya to bring out that rich beefy goodness that you can enjoy for only PhP 65 at Remy’s Balbacua.

PHOTO BY REMY’s Balbacua & Soup #5 ”Soup #5”

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PHOTO BY The Explorer’s Channel www.theexplorerschannel.com ”Sinuglaw” November 13, 2023

Sinuglaw with Tabon -tabon

Sinuglaw is a marriage between two cuisines and culture, the Sinugba and Kinilaw from Visayas and Mindanao that created a dynamic blend from the smoky grilled pork liempo mix with the citrusy kick of the tabon-tabon and acidity from kinilaw that leaves a bold

impression in your mouth na hahanap-hanapin mo. But, Sinugba isn’t just a delicious staple in Cagayan de Oro, it also symbolizes the soul of the city before it became a melting pot of flavors from various identities and cuisines. So, if you’re looking for an authentic Kagay-anon experience, look for sinuglaw at Kagay-anon restaurant.

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PHOTO BY Bebs from Foxy Folksy www.foxyfolksy.com ”Pork Pata Humba”

Pork Humba at Cogon Public Market Karendirya Cagayan de Oro prides itself with their meaty and savory melts in your mouth Pork Humba found inside the bustling space of Cogon Public Market where Humbaan ni Sio-sio stands. They have been selling Pork Humba

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for 19 years. Their recipe highlights the classic Humba flavors that blend soy, vinegar, onion, sugar, pineapple juice, peppercorn, star anise, banana blossom, and bay leaves to create that sweet soupy base na mapapa-extra rice ka sa sarap! Humbaan ni Sio-sio is open from 5 AM to 7 PM to satisfy your all day cravings of the classic Maranao cuisine.

Tiyula Itum o Black Soup Don’t let its dark and dirty looking appearance deceive you from trying Tiyula Itum, or Black Soup–a culinary treasure of the Tausug people.

This braised beef or goat stew stands out from the vibrant hues of other Filipino soups with striking colors, thanks to its secret ingredient: burnt coconut meat o sunog na buko, hindi inihaw kundi, sunog talaga. However, the most sensational element of this dish is its bold beefy umami goodness brought out by the medley of Filipino aromatic flavors–this dish is a symphony of spices that warms the soul.

Tiyula Itum isn’t just a meal; it’s a taste of

Tausug heritage in every savory spoonful. You can experience this dish at one of the best restaurants in the area — Cusina Higala.

Ostrich If you pass the bull’s private parts from Remember Me soup, then Ostrich meat would be a piece of cake for you as Cagayan de Oro yet again treats you to an exotic delight but in a more familiar taste–diners would say that it ‘tastes just like beef’. They also serve it like some beef recipes including Ostrich Salpicao, and Ostrich Steak, a must try dish that you can enjoy at Kagay-anon Restaurant.

PHOTO BY Hungry Kat thehungrykat.com ”Tiyula Itum” March 14, 2020

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MV Trans-Asia 10 Experience the VIP delight onboard with Trans-Asia 10. Its pleasing atmosphere and welcoming staff transport you to world class services that will make your long-journey worth every wait.

Dine in at their onboard Dynamic Cuisine restaurant, a floating grill. Shop your necessities at their Starsy Shoppe, a grocery shop inside the vessel, pamper yourself in their zero gravity massage chairs and end your day at their spacious and homely private and cabin rooms equipped with complete utilities.

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Tagbilaran - Cebu

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Tue/Thu/Sat

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Mon/Wed/Fri

7:00 PM

Ozamiz - Iligan

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Higalaay Festival What to look forward to in Cagayan’s Higalaay Festival

Cagayan de Oro is not called the City of Golden Friendship for no reason.

Kagay-anons’ friendliness, hospitality, and warmth are like no others. Dahil dito, sa tuwing sasapit ang ika-28 ng Agosto ay iginugunita nila ang “Friendship Festival” o “Higalaay Festival”, kasabay ang feast of the city’s patron saint, Saint Augustine. Isa sa mga highlights ng pistang ito ay ang Kumbira Culinary Show.

PHOTO BY cityinfocagayandeoro www.flickr.com ”Higalaay Festival 2023” August 27, 2023

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Kumbira Culinary Show Isa sa mga highlights ng pistang ito ay ang Kagay-an Festival Parade Kumbira Culinary Show.

Sa pagtatampok na ito matutunghayan ang mga patok at kakaibang mga putahe sa Cagayan De Oro na hinaluan ng modern twists ng mga chefs na kasali rito. Mula pa 1996 ay nagpapasiklaban na ang iba’t ibang mga chef at culinary school sa competition na ito.

PHOTOS BY cityinfocagayandeoro www.flickr.com ”Kumbira” August 13, 2015

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Dragon Boat Fiesta

Isa sa mga highlight ng Higalaay festival ay ang Dragon Boat Race. It is an annual event that welcomes local and international spectators to participate in dragon boat racing, a local sport of Cagayan De Oro. Kagay-anons take

special importance of this event as this celebrates Cagayan de Oro’s merging of traditional undertakings to modern celebration.

The race is open to all people, women and men ages 12 and above. It is also open to persons with disabilities and others who like to join.

PHOTOS BY cityinfocagayandeoro www.flickr.com ”Dragon Boat Competition” August 19, 2023

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PHOTOS BY cityinfocagayandeoro www.flickr.com August 27, 2023

Cagayan de Oro Carnival Parade

Isa rin sa mga inaabangan tuwing pista ay ang kanilang magarbo at kaabang-abang na street dance competition. A parade of

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colorful Carnival liven up with heart pumping orchestra, extravagant costumes, and street dancers that will make you groove along to their beats. Reminding us of the reason behind this festival – to celebrate friendship, this celebration will definitely get you to mingle and socialize with different people!

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Higalaay Pyrolympics What else can light up your spirit at night other than fireworks? The Higalaay Pyrolympics has been an annual tradition during the Higalaay Festival, presented by SM City Cagayan de Oro to end the night in a colorful way.

PHOTOS BY cityinfocagayandeoro www.flickr.com August 27, 2017

? y a t S o t e r e Wh

Hamersons Hotel

Limketkai Luxe Hotel

1A Express Hotel

Service Facilities Cleanliness Value for Money

Service Facilities Cleanliness Value for Money

Service Facilities Cleanliness Value for Money

Stephen T | Sep 2024

Maria | 4 Mar 2025

Julius | 26 Feb 2024

My new favourite CDO hotel A new hotel in downtown CDO. Well priced, clean and modern. Excellent staff. Good buffet breakfast for Filipinos and westerners alike.

Comfortable beds and a shower that works well! Rooms are a bit small but comfortable. Blackout curtains aid a good night’s sleep.

Hamersons Hotel CDO (+63) 917 158 0400 hamersonshotels.com

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We had a good stay. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Breakfast buffet offered a lot of choices.

Fajardo | 5 Dec 2024

If you’re staying in CDO, this is the perfect place to stay. Staff were nice, welcoming and polite. Facility is well kept.

Limketkai Luxe Hotel (+63) 917 312 4564 limketkailuxe.com

I’m impressed with this hotel Will book again in this hotel because of its cleanliness, attentive and courteous staff. The complementary buffet breakfast is more than enough to fuel your day and is delicious. Should you need something like groceries, 7-11 is in the same buildings.

1A Express Hotel Cagayan de Oro (+63) 917 670 1239 1aexpresshotel.com

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The Essential Backpacker’s Guide for a low budget travel from Cebu to Cagayan De Oro Traveling from Cebu to Cagayan De Oro (CDO) for a fun vacation offers a blend of vibrant city life, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Travel costs can often be high, but with careful planning, backpacking allows you to enjoy an incredible adventure on a budget.

Backpacking means traveling with all of your essentials in one bag you carry yourself. This helps to reduce any additional luggage costs and helps you save money and prioritize unique experiences for your trip instead.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or new to this style of travel, these practical tips will help you manage your expenses, pack efficiently, and stay flexible throughout your journey. This guide is designed to help you navigate the challenges of budget travel while ensuring that you make the most of your Cebu to CDO trip. From saving money on accommodations to timing your travel for the best deals, these tips will equip you with everything you need to plan a low-cost, high-reward escapade.

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Benefits of Backpacking More Savings!

Backpacking highlights experience over luxury, you naturally find ways to save on accommodations, food, and transportation.

Convenient Backpacking forces you to prioritize bringing essential items hence, travelling becomes more efficient and convenient.

Self-Sufficiency and Discovery Backpacking fosters a sense of independence. It teaches valuable life skills like fast problem solving, and practical decision making that enhances your travel experience.

Flexibility The freedom to explore at your own pace is one of the most rewarding aspects of backpacking.

Instructions: Cross off the items that you have already experienced as a traveler. Try to complete rows across, down, and diagonally from the corners.

Can you complete them all? Have fun!

went camping overnight

made friends with the locals

gotten completely drunk

watch sunset/sunrise at a beach

went to the beach

learned a bit of local language

went on a roadtrip went hiking

had terrible sunburn

got amazing tan lines

traveled solo

used up all the hotel toiletries

tried stange local food

took multiple ootd pictures

bought souvenirs

made a sand castle

SEND YOUR ANSWERS TO stratcomm@chelsealogistics.ph Get a chance to win free roundtrip ticket from your favorite shipping line of choice

CDO to Cebu: 7 Smart Backpacking Tips 1

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE Getting travel insurance should be the first thing on your checklist before starting your journey. It is a must to research different travel insurance providers and carefully choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. Make sure that the insurance covers all the activities you plan to do during your CDO to Cebu trip as this helps you to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage expenses.

Remember to carry both physical and digital copies of your insurance policy, along with the emergency contact numbers of your insurance provider.

Having these details readily available will allow you to act quickly and get the help you need.

2 PLAN YOUR BUDGET-FRIENDLY ROUTE

Planning your route ahead of time is crucial for a successful backpacking trip, especially when traveling on a budget.

Consider things such as travel timing, route options, and your planned destinations:

WHEN TO GO TO CEBU January to June is Cebu’s peak dry season while December to May is ideally the best time to visit.

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HOW TO GO TO CEBU AND BACK

By Airplane

By Ferry

Cheapest Round-Trip Flight – ₱2,258 1. Take a flight from Laguindingan Airport going to Mactan-Cebu Airport 2. Transit time will take around 1 to 2 hours depending on other flight conditions

Cheapest One Way Trip – ₱1,405 1. Book a trip from Cagayan de Oro to Cebu and a return trip back.

2. Transit time can take anywhere from 9 to 11 hours depending on weather conditions.

WHERE TO GO TO CEBU SIRAO PEAK

BUDLAAN FALLS HIKE

OSMEÑA PEAK

This is one of the easiest trails for beginners that offers stimulating hiking experiences that lets you in Sirao’s breathtaking attraction sites such as the Sirao Pictorial garden, and Mt. Kang-Irag campsite.

A trail that leads you to a stunning waterfall site hidden away in Barangay Budlaan.

The route is ideally for more experienced trekkers, so if it is your first time, you might want to bring along a guide which costs ₱200.

This is one of the easier hiking trails that usually takes you 15 to 20 minutes to reach the summit. The view is spectacular during sunrise. It is advised that you be careful as the terrain is full of sharp rocks and mud.

DIRECTIONS:

DIRECTIONS:

DIRECTIONS:

1. Take a taxi to JY Square, Barangay Lahug 2. Once there, take a motorbike or habal-habal going to the start of Sirao Peak trail near Ayala Heights which costs ₱150 3. You will have to walk the rest of the way to the peak.

1. Take a taxi to Talamban Grand Mall 2. In Talamban, look for a 3. motorcycle going to Barangay Budlaan. The fare will be around ₱30.

4. Register your name in the log book in the store near the entrance to the trail.

1. From Cebu Pier, take a bus going to Dalaguete.

2. Once there, get a habal-habal or motorcyclist to take you to the start of the trail.

3. The trek will take about 25 to 35 minutes to reach the summit.

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3 BOOK BUDGET STAYS NEARBY

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses on any trip, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. When backpacking, look for affordable options like shared hostels, guesthouses, or even camping grounds.

These not only save money for your CDO to Cebu trip but also provide opportunities to meet other travelers and share experiences: Near Airport a. Residenz Inn (₱810 – ₱1,600) ADDRESS: S-36, San Jose Village, Mandaue, Cebu b. Mactan-Cebu Budget Hotel (₱642 – ₱1,875) ADDRESS: 103 Jeb Bldg, M.L. Quezon National Highway, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu Near Ferry Port a. Happy Nest Hostel Cebu (₱467 – ₱3,316) ADDRESS: HappyNest Hostel Cebu, Cebu City, 6000 b. Dragon Home Inn (₱829 – ₱1,250) ADDRESS: 29 General Echavez Street, Cebu City

4 PACK PORTABLE SUPPLIES AND DOCUMENTS

When you’re backpacking, every item in your pack should serve a purpose. Focus on packing your essentials for your specific journey. This includes basic climbing gear if you plan to explore mountainous areas, trail mix or other snacks to keep your energy up, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Additionally, never underestimate the importance of your travel documents. Bring photocopies of your identification cards, travel itinerary, and any necessary permits or tickets. Store these in a waterproof pouch to protect them from rain or accidental spills. In case of an emergency, having these documents on hand can make a significant difference.

Consider packing a lightweight travel towel, a small flashlight or headlamp, and a multi-tool, all of which can be lifesavers in unexpected situations. Remember, it’s about carrying what you need without overburdening yourself.

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5 DISTRIBUTE BACKPACK’S WEIGHT EVENLY

How you organize the supplies in your bag is as important as packing it, because an improperly packed bag can lead to discomfort, pain, or even injuries, especially on long hikes or treks.

Start by placing middle-weight items, such as clothes or small camping gear, at the bottom of your backpack. This creates a solid base. Next, place the heaviest items, like a water bottle, food supplies, or heavy tools, in the middle of the backpack, close to your back. This positioning helps you maintain stability and prevents the pack from pulling you backward.

Moderate-weight items, such as a jacket or additional gear, can go on the sides of the pack. Lastly, place lightweight items, like a map, snacks, or a first aid kit, at the top for easy access. This packing strategy not only makes your backpack more comfortable to carry but also ensures that you have quick access to essentials during your trip.

6 WEAR HEAVY DUTY BOOTS

Footwear is one of the most critical aspects of your backpacking gear. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet, walking through various terrains, it’s essential to invest in a good pair of heavy-duty boots. Look for boots that offer excellent support, non-slip soles, and are waterproof for your CDO to Cebu journey.

Non-slip soles are vital for navigating slippery surfaces, whether you’re trekking through a rainforest or crossing a wet street in the city. A hard sole will protect your feet from sharp objects or rough terrain, while waterproof material ensures your feet stay dry, even if you encounter unexpected rain or need to cross a stream.

7 WATER SEAL YOUR ITEMS

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in tropical areas like the Philippines. Protecting your gear from water damage is essential to ensure that everything stays dry and functional.

Buy waterproof bags or zip-lock pouches inside your backpack to store electronics, clothes, and important documents. These layers provide extra security in case you get caught in a downpour or accidentally drop your pack in water. Keeping your items water-sealed at all times ensures that they remain safe, dry, and ready for use, no matter what conditions you encounter.

CDO to Cebu on a Budget Backpacking from CDO to Cebu on a budget is entirely possible with the right approach and mindset. By following these tips, you can enjoy a rich and rewarding travel experience without overspending.

Remember, the true value of your journey lies in the experiences and connections you make along the way, not in how much you spend. So pack light, plan smart, and embrace the adventure that awaits. Your low-budget escapade to Cebu is just the beginning of incredible memories.

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Paano mo malalamang Pilipino ka?

Simple, kahit mainit, nagkakape.

Coffee has been a staple in every Filipino household. From agahan, tanghalian, meryenda, kahit pa hapunan, minsan kahit pulutan, coffee has proven its versatility. We have coffee as it is, flavored, dessert with coffee, alcohol with coffee, and sachet. Out of this continuous demand, Cafe Liberica was born.

Cafe Liberica initially started in 2019, and unlike any coffee establishment, they first set their foot onboard a long-haul vessel traveling the Batangas-Caticlan route, at first only selling instant coffee.

They offered basic coffee flavors such as— Espresso, Americano, latte, cappuccino, and mocha.

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But with continued demand from traveling passengers, Cafe Liberica responded and expanded their operations to cater to the demand.This inspired them to create their very own coffee brand and since their home port is Batangas, they turned to the province’s pride— Kapeng Barako.

“

As we continue to explore opportunities, we realized that if there was a market onboard, there would certainly be one onshore. ” Cafe Liberica said.

This led them to look for a reliable supply of Liberica beans and discovered that the main sources are in Lipa City and Cavite.

To align their business with a meaningful purpose, they partnered with a community of coffee farmers in Batangas, incorporating an advocacy of supporting local farmers while growing their brand. This gave them the opportunity to open their first land-based branch on Rizal Avenue, Batangas City, in front of Batangas State University in December 2023.

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“

Every cup tells a story of Filipino pride, and showcases the rich heritage of Batangas”

Today, as of April 2025, Cafe Liberica proudly operates eight branches across Luzon and Visayas.

They have also improved their menu by adding pastries such as their famous Red Velvet and Choco moist cake.

Breakfast options are also available at their selected branches that serve Tapa, Longganisa, Bangus, and Dried Boneless Mindoro Biya with garlic rice, topped with runny egg, and partnered with Kapeng Barako or juice. They also have the dreamy American breakfast which has waffles, toast, bacon, and egg.

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With our commitment to quality coffee and community support, we continue to aim for growth and look forward to expanding even further in the future!”

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An Epitome of Change & Innovation:

Padla’s Recipe for Success Kapag sinabing meat Jerky, ano ang unang pumapasok sa isip n’yo? Matigas? O baka pagkain ng aso? Ganyan din ang unang naisip ng mga tao when they hear about De Oro’s Best by Padlas’ Homemade Products. They sell pork and beef jerkys.

Craig Mari Padla, now second generation owner, shared in an interview that before he inherited the success of the company, he first stumbled upon the challenges that came with it.

Padla shared that people often mistake their product as not real food or a dog food since dried meat is not a staple for Filipinos. This was also his parents’ struggle back in 1990 when they first introduced their product.

“

Here in the Philippines, kadalasan ang nalalaman nating meat products are Chorizo, longganisa, tocino, spam, pero when we talk about jerky ‘ano yan?’ minsan nga sinasabi pa ng mga tao na ‘baka pang aso ‘yan?” he said.

These comments made Padla constantly grapple in joining international food exhibits, as well as marketing and promotional food fairs to gain visibility to both local and international markets of dried meat.

This flooded opportunities to their gates.

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De Oro’s Best has been recognized by the Cagayan de Oro City Government as one of the few best products in the City.

Currently, their products are distributed in over 200 stores nationwide namely; SM Supermarkets, SM Hypermarkets, SM SaveMores, Robinsons’ the Marketplace, Metro Gaisano, and GMall Supermarkets.

However, that success was short-lived as the pandemic fever dawned on them, forcing them to momentarily pause their operations.

“

Pinaka mahirap na experience namin was during the pandemic wherein napilitan kaming mag shut down for 8 months. We did that kase walang movement masyado ng tao and at the same time yung partner courier namin hindi makapag deliver nationwide.” Padla said.

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Fortunately, the pandemic had eased and nationwide restrictions were lifted, and much like many establishments and businesses, De Oro’s Best continues to bounce back slowly to the market.

“

Nag bounce back kami paunti unti, until such time na nakarecover na pero as of the moment, to be honest hindi pa kami 100 percent recovered pero we’re doing fine.” he said.

Despite that, De Oro’s Best continues to adapt changes that took over for the last five years, which helped them bring back operations.

Now, they are continuously working hand-inhand with different Government agencies in Cagayan De Oro such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Tourism (DOT), and Oro Trade and Investments Promotion Center (ORO TIPC), the trading arm of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cagayan de Oro in promoting their products both locally and internationally.

In fact, last December 2024, De Oro’s Best was one of the top five Filipino businesses who represented the country at the 75th Thailand International OTOP Trade Fair in the Impact Challenger Arena, Thailand.

This gave them the opportunity to distribute their products in a few pasalubong centers like Thailand, and on AMAZON in the US. Besides this, Padlas has also outlined a new project with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Pasig to extend the shelf life of their meat jerkys from one year to three years, to make it as an emergency food in case of calamities.

De Oro’s Best is not only committed to producing quality products but they have also become an avenue for inclusivity as they accept employees of diverse backgrounds like, Persons’ with Disabilities, elderly, and also people that are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Because of this continued commitment and kindness, they were blessed with a comfortable living and good education.

“

Apat kaming magkapatid nakapag aral sa Ateneo de Cagayan which is mahal ‘yan hindi basta basta. Nakabili [din] kami ng mga sasakyan. We have renovated our property three times and we have also expanded our network and at the same time expanded our processing area.”

Despite this, Padla remained humble and a hands-on owner to their enterprise.

When asked what’s his recipe for success, he said; “Ang recipe ko for success is

keep going, accept challenges as it is. Dapat kung meron kang problema na encounter hindi ka dapat magpakulong sa problema [instead] you have to be versatile, you have to be flexible in everything that you do.

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Commitment to Change

“Hindi dapat kung ano yung nakasanayan ‘yun lang, we have to adapt, we have to change, we have to improve, constant innovation is the key.’ he added.

Part of their innovation initiatives are their dedication to develop other meat types for jerkies, namely, Rabbit, Tuna, Squid, Ostrich, Shrimp, and Chicken.

Kung maihahalintulad ang company niyo sa flavor ng inyong jerkys anong flavor at bakit?

Original flavor. Kase ang company namin hindi siya sugar coated, natural lang po kami na one of the MSME’s who are doing what we ought to do. So ang sa amin lang kung ano mang problema ang dumaan balik kami kung saan kami nagsimula, the very reason why we exist.

How would you advertise your product to those first time hearing it?

Beef/pork jerky is ready-to-eat dried meat. It is ideal for snacks, pulutan, and for appetizers. Our jerky is very handy. You can actually put the jerky inside your pocket. It’s convenient for travel, food on the go.

(032) 254 6491 to 98 www.transasiashipping.com Trans-Asia Shipping Lines, Inc.