Every year, when Undas comes around, we see a familiar scene: families visiting cemeteries with flowers, candles, and food to honor their departed loved ones. The sight of families gathered together — laughing, praying, remembering — always warms my heart. It’s one of those moments that reminds us how deeply Filipinos value love, respect, and remembrance. But then, I also see another sight that never fails to confuse me. When the day ends and people begin to go home, what’s left behind? Piles of plastic bottles, food...
Wondering how much you’ll get from your SSS pension—and what financial protection your family can receive later on? If you’re a voluntary SSS member nearing retirement, this guide will help you understand how to maximize your pension and how your loved ones can benefit from your contributions, even after your retirement years. ✅ How to Compute Your SSS Monthly Pension The SSS pension is based on your Average Monthly Salary Credit (AMSC) and Credited Years of Service (CYS). SSS uses three formulas and grants the highest...
Why Mr. Hat Gulaman Belongs in Your Kitchen The back-to-school rush brings a whirlwind of early mornings, homework, and packed schedules. For parents, students, and work-from-home warriors alike, it’s also the season of baon prep, quick snacks, and craving comfort food after a long day. One pantry staple that deserves a fresh look? Mr. Hat Gulaman—a nostalgic classic reimagined for today’s busy lifestyles. What Makes Mr. Hat Gulaman Special? Made from natural seaweed extract, Mr. Hat Gulaman is a vegetarian, powder-based...
Tucked in the serene cove of Pico De Loro, Nasugbu, Batangas, the Pico Sands Hotel offers the kind of weekend escape that’s hard to put into words—but we’ll try! From scenic hikes to water adventures, our stay was nothing short of amazing. Here’s the full story of what really happens when you check in for a weekend of sun, sea, and unexpected surprises. A Hidden Gem Just a Few Hours from Manila It was a quick weekend getaway, but it felt like a complete reset. As soon as we arrived at Pico De Loro, we were welcomed by...
This is not a racist post—just an observation from a practicing Catholic mom. Our family tries to attend Mass every weekend. I grew up with a religious Catholic grandmother, and my husband thankfully shares the same belief: that despite the flaws of the Church, going to Mass is one of the best ways to hear God’s word and grow spiritually. The Bible remains our most accessible source of God’s teachings, and faith, for us, is what holds everything together. But over time, a question started to form in my mind: Why are there...
Writing this while I’m waiting for our Grab food to arrive. Yes, sa dami ng tasks that I need to do today, I preferred Grab delivery food if that’s the thing that will keep me sane. And while I have time to muni-muni, I thought I’ll spend some time to write my opinion about the recent elections. Some of the candidates I voted won, some did not. And ang konti lang ng binoto ko, I wasn’t able to completely mark the full roster. Why? One, I don’t know many of the candidates. Most of them the candidates...
Planning a trip to Japan? With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture, it’s no wonder Japan is a dream destination for many travelers. But before you head to the airport, it’s essential to prepare everything you’ll need for a hassle-free trip. This ultimate checklist ensures you won’t forget a thing! Why You Need a Travel Checklist Traveling overseas can be overwhelming, especially with the number of documents, items, and preparations required. A travel checklist not only helps you stay organized...
There’s nothing quite like spending a day learning new recipes and flavors with friends, and our recent cooking class at The Maya Kitchen Culinary Arts Center was exactly that! With my two friends, Cecil and Ching, we signed up for a Caribbean cooking class, excited to explore the vibrant world of spices and tropical ingredients. The cooking team with our the beautiful foreign couple who joined us, Chef Albert Sia, me, Ching and Cecil. Led by the talented Chef Albert Sia, the class focused on four flavorful dishes: Peruvian Chicken...
