Cebu Day 2 Sneak Peek

I've so wanted to write the sequel of our Cebu vacay for the past couple of days. But with the deadlines and my upcoming events, I've been really, really busy. So, just to get the ball rolling, I've compiled some pictures that will mostly some up our second day itinerary.

I gotta go back to woooorrrrkiiing... ^_^ Ciao! 

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Twilight Biatch

Photo is not mine. Credit is given to the owner.

While I was working a while ago, I turned on my music player and listened to my favorite tracks. It helps me relax more and feel the stress less, making me enjoy my work no matter how boring or routine-ary it may be.

Then, the song of Christina Perry entitled "A Thousand Years" played. I was left dumbstruck. Why? Well, I suddenly had the urge to watch the Twilight Series again, read all the books again, and wish that its really not over yet (books only since I've never been a fan of the RobPatz and K-Stew loveteam).

I always associated "A Thousand Years" with the Twilight Series. No matter how much I hate Rob Patz, K-Stew and their acting, I've never really stopped myself from watching the movies. Right now, I felt that I wanted to go back to college and experience the Twilight Frenzy all over again.

Flashback...

Back in College, me and my friends (actually, almost the whole AB-MC class) was caught with the Twilight Fever. I remember, me and Ahleen would often search the web and just look for the soft copies of the Twilight series and would often end up reading one book for just two-three days, reading mostly at night. I even remember passing up on some dinners, gimmiks, and night-outs with friends just to go home, open up a bag of chips and just read my soft copy of New Moon and Eclipse on my laptop.

Even during our retreat, I still can't stop reading Breaking Dawn that I ended up borrowing either Jebo's or Edel's laptop. I forgot who was the owner but I'm sure that it was either one of them.

I remember that I've saved a lot of Twilight fan art with people's bet on who's going to be the lucky guy to play the part of the mesmerizing Edward Cullen. Then just to be disappointed with the producers' or K-Stew's choice, Rob Patz... Jeeezzz.. They really could have done better.

But, none the less, I still went crazy with all the trailers and other videos that came out before the actual showing of "Twilight" in theaters.

I also remember waiting in line at NCCC Mall Cinema just to watch the movie with practically the entire class. It was fun and I've miss those days that I had been obsessed with "Twilight". I think, a girl will really go through a phase of fan-girling. I'm just glad that I did it with a bunch of the best fangirls/boys in town. Hahahahah.. I love you, friends!

Fast forward a couple of years and I was already working...

I though the Twilight bug has already left me with me being sooooo busy with work when I was just starting out in the corporate world. I remember watching the second movie, New Moon, with Edz and my other colleagues from KCC Mall. But, I was not even aware that Eclipse was already shown. As in, I might have been really busy with the opening of SunCity Suites that time. Anyway, thanks to HBO and Star Movies that I was able to watch it.

Then came the fourth movie, Breaking Dawn Part 1. Again, I was not able to watch it. I can't remember why but what I remember is me watching it on Star Movies too. The Twilight bug had really left. :(

Fast forward again to the showing of Breaking Dawn Part 2.

At first, I was hesitant to watch it in theaters. But, since Ronnell was already around to accompany me, I just went ahead for old times' sake.

I enjoyed the movie even if, having read the book, I already knew what's going to happen. Also, I am the kind of person who ENJOYS SPOILERS. Hahhaha.. I wouldn't watch a movie unless I know some details about it.

At the end of Breaking Dawn Part 2, I was already crying. Before the credits roll, it has a montage of all the characters that they had from Twilight to Breaking Dawn Part 2. I just felt sad that it was really over. I felt the same way I did when Harry Potter Series ended. Unlike Harry Potter, the Twilight series didn't include half of my childhood but I've always associated my Twilight fangirling days with some fun memories with my friends.

Photo is not mine. Credit is given to the owner.

For me, Twilight was more than a movie or a book. It was a medium for me and my friends to have some of the most fun and interesting experiences of our lives. This makes me a Twilight Biatch forever...

OA ba? Hahhahaha

Back to work guys!

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Day 1, Cebu City : Magellan's Cross, Plaza Independencia, Crown Regency

I was able to avail a seat sale of Cebu Pacific last February and I immediately took that chance to book a trip to Cebu. Of course, I can't leave my baby love behind so I book a ticket for my lablab and baby love too. So, for only Php 2,700, we already got round trip tickets good for 3. 

My cousin Roxanne and sister Veronica also heard about this and they can't help but tag along. ^_^ So, they bought round trip tickets for only Php 890.00 each.

After 6 months, August 9 finally came. All of us were so excited for the trip.

We weren't able to take pictures while we were in the airport in Gensan so we really had some major cam-whoring when we step down from the plane in Cebu. As in, MAAAAJJJOOOR cam-whoring.

An ad located at the Arrival area of Mactan International Airport

Since the camera that we used here is not ours, we don't know how to use it.  Sorry for the out-of-focused shots.

There was a looong waiting line for you to get a cab. At least, it's good to see that people can get really civilized and rule-abiding. Nasa rule implementation lang siguro talaga yan.

After almost twenty minutes, it was finally our turn to ride a cab.

The cab ride from the airport to our hotel was 30 minutes long but I didn't really noticed it since I was busy looking at my new surroundings. (For the record, it was not my first time in Cebu. ^_^ But, during my first trip, I was locked up in Imperial Palace Hotel and Resort for the Converse Trade Show.)

For this trip, we decided to stay at Sampaguita Suites Plaza Garcia. The hotel was super affordable! We paid for a Family Room that was good for 4 for only Php 1,398.00 without breakfast. (We split the room rate by 4 and we ended up paying Php 350/head/night). It is conveniently located at the heart of the city and is very near (like 100 steps away) from the Magellan's Cross and Sto. Nino Basilica. It also has a McDonalds 24hr store right in front of it, a nearby 7/11 (hello slurpee!), and three mini supermarkets surrounding it. 

Photo is not mine. Credit is given to owner.

When we arrived at the hotel, we torn it apart immediately so I didn't bother posting pics 'cause its embarrassing. 

After taking a little rest, we went on with our DIY tour.

First stop, the Magellan's Cross...

(R)Here I am getting a shot at the Magellan's Cross. (L) Bebe and me in an out-of-focused shot by Roxanne.

My pretty sister, Veronica

My sister mentioned that the original cross of Magellan was inside the wooden cross casing. This was made to preserve the original cross from eroding. I was not sure of this fact (nor was she) so I googled about it and according to Wikipedia, this is true.

To tell you the truth, I was not really amazed by the Magellan's Cross. Wala lang. It was just ordinary. But, if you happen to be in the area while you are in Cebu, you might as well get your picture taken here for what its worth.

The Magellan's Cross is also located in the Plaza Sugbu and in front of the City Hall.

My baby love, Jacob, enjoying the park.

Ronnell, my bebe, and his adopted kids as his backdraft (haha)

We then proceeded to the Sto. Nino Basilica but the mass was on-going and there was really a lot of people so we just decided to come back the next day.

Since the Plaza Independencia is just walking distance from the Magellan's Cross, we went there as our next stop.

Plaza Independencia is said to be one of the last remains of the Spanish colony in Cebu. The park has a wide space for walking, jogging, playing, and cam-whoring. ^_^

My baby really enjoyed running around the park and even joined some of the students who were practicing their dance routines.

Just in front of the Plaza Independencia is that Malacang of the South. 

 It is said that the Malacanang of the South by built during the time of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.  Today, I think they are using this as an office for the customs.

It was already getting dark when we left Plaza Independencia and walked back to the Hotel. We first did some groceries at the Lucky Seven Supermart and both drinks, some snacks and cup noodles.

When we arrived at the hotel, we rested for a while (well, it was a long walk) and freshened up for our dinner with one of my friends who migrated to Cebu last year, Precious.

Before 6:30 PM, Pre called and we decided to meet up at Zubuchon Escario Branch. Well, I really want to try eating the lechon here because I read in this blog that it is really a must-try. 

And so we did...

Here's their lovely table display right in front of the entrance.

Roxanne, my cousin, checking out their menu.

Jacob checking out the menu himself.

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While Jacob was doing this, there was a couple of American ladies looking at him, fascinated by his cuteness.

Our food was finally served. We are starving! 

Photo from Roxanne

After a couple of minutes, Precious arrived. We can now finally eat! Ooopps, I was wrong! Pictorial pala muna.

Me with my friend, Precious

Jacob was already hungry (and angry). Hahaha

We ordered 1/2 Kilo Lechon, Lechon Sisig, Sotanghon, and Seaweed Platter. Their food was really great especially the super crispy lechon skin and their Sotanghon. Until now, I can't still get over the yummy taste of that Sotanghon. I've always been fond of Sisig but I've tasted better ones. Also, Precious cut her gums because of the bone in the Sisig. She almost bleeded to death. Kidding, it was not that serious.

After that sumptuous meal, we decided to go for a Sky Adventure.

I've always wanted to try out this activity. But, when I already got to the Sky Lounge, I got really scared as hell. It was also discouraging because both Roxanne and Veron became scardey-cats too. Unfortunately(good thing for me), we need to wait for 2 hours before we can be served. So, we decided to skip this activity and just call it a lot.

But before that, we had our pictures taken muna.

We hailed a cab and had a quiet ride home. Me being quiet because I can still feel my stomach turning from the fright that I got. I never thought that I was scared of heights.

When we arrived at the hotel, both of my boys were already snoring. I climbed up to bed to kiss both of them. Hmmm... My cute booys..

So, we ended the night with some Fundaes from 7/11. So far, it has been fuunnn..

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Back from my Cebu Trip

Wow!

After spending 5D/4N in Cebu City, I am finally back in my hometown. Ang sarap lang ng feeling to sleep again in my own bed with my two pillows. I really missed my pillows because the pillows in the hotel where we stayed in was sooooo uncomfortable. As in, super uncomfortable that I ended up using the towels as pillows. Hahahaha

Anyway, in the next few days, I will be writing about my Cebu escapade. All I can say is that we did some major cam-whoring while we were there. As in MAJOR-MAJOR.

I will update sooooon. I just really have to resume working right now even if I still have the vacation bug. 

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SunCity Suites 3rd Anniversary: A trip to the Caribbean

Stage Set-up for SunCity Suites 3rd Anniversary Party (Photo from Rose Guevarra)

(Note: Another super late post)

SunCity Suites sure know how to throw an awesome party!

Last July 19, 2013, my hotel alma-mater had their Third SunCity Suites Anniversary and Clients' Appreciation Night. Among ALL the hotels in General Santos City, SunCity Suites is the ONLY hotel that celebrates this yearly event as a token of appreciation to their loyal clients.  They also award the top three corporate accounts and their top three government accounts.

I am proud to say that I was part of the SunCity Suites family before (actually, until now even if I resigned November last year) and  I can really say that once they have an event, it is really a must-see. I'm also glad that they contacted me to still be part of the event by getting me the Program Coordinator/Director.

Anyways, every year, SunCity Suites would really set a party theme and would against all odds decorate according to this theme. 

In 2011, we had a Black & White Anniversary Party. Check out my Facebook Photos here:https://www.facebook.com/kate.budke/media_setset=a.10150272783823077.353091.779273076&type=3 (Note: I was already 2 months pregnant here. ^_^)

Then, in 2012, we had this awesome Vegas-inspired Anniversary Party. Details! Details! Details! We surely had it all thanks to our awesome and creative Banquet Supervisor, Helbert Blanco. Check out this blogpost by my friend, Precious Carcillar: http://precognito.tumblr.com/post/27674326028/sun-city-suites-appreciation-night

Then, they up the ante again this year by bringing the Caribbean here in General Santos City. Check out these awesome pictures:

Yes, they brought the white sands to the City. Amazing noh?! (Photo by Phillip Pabelic)

Main Buffet Station (Photo by Rose Guevarra)

Stage Decor complete with surf boards and tropical background (Photo by Rose Guevarra)

My friend and SunCity Suites Front Office Supervisor, Rose Guevarra

My friend, Felie Mae Ferman, me, and Rose.

Rose, Donna Alvar of SCS Finance Department, and Me

Since it was a Caribbean pahtey, it was required to wear a Resort Chic attire. While most of the people wore maxi dresses and floral-printed shift dresses, I opted to wear a tie-dyed cover-up, my fave red shorts and my very comfy pink shoes. I decided to wear flats instead of heels because I know that I will be running here and there during the program proper as the Program Coordinator. ^_^

One thing to look forward to in a SunCity Suites Party is the amount of food that they are willing to feed you. I mean, they would really spend a lot just to provide you a lot of food options. Check this out:

The Main Course Buffet Station decorated with assorted tropical fruits. Cute huh?!

Sorry for the blurry photo. I just took this with my Galaxy Tab 2.0 camera

The Dessert and Sashimi Station

I've always been a dessert person (I do have a sweet tooth) so guess where can find me through out the night. Syempre, dito! Hahhaha

I've tried them all of course!

An extension of the Dessert Station, the Crepe and Brownie Station

 I love Crepes! I think I had 3 or 4 pieces all through the night. Hahahah

Here's the Pasta Station

More food! Appetizer Station

Aside from these, they also have the following stations:

* Hind Leg and Roasted Pig Station

* Grilling or Barbecue Station where you can get some lovely chicken and pork skewers

* Hot Coffee and Blended Coffee Station

* An Open Bar by Tanduay Distillers

* Another Open Bar with a variety of cocktails

Did I miss some? Hahhaha

Placing the food stations at different locations also gives the guests time to explore the area and the appreciate the set-up. Also, going around gives a chance for the guests to interact with other guests.

Here's Rose with the SM Retail Accounting People

Look at the details that they had at the entrance. The Tiki Heads and Surfboards really helped transformed the simple parking lot into a Caribbean paradise.

Rose with some of the Hotel Staff 

An entourage of beautiful and handsome Hotel staff will greet you at the entrance. They are also serving welcome drinks to the arriving guests.

My awesome boss, Mr. Phillip Pabelic. (Photo courtesy of his FB account)

Of course, this event won't be possible without the leadership of my awesome and beloved boss and the Resident Manager of SunCity Suites, Mr. Phillip Pabelic. Kudos to you sir!

Helbert Blanco, Phillip Pabelic and Romeo Rom (Photo is not mine. Credit goes to owner)

Congrats also to Bert for the awesome set-up (again), Chef Romeo for the yummy and unique food and Rose for the well-constructed program. 

I wasn't able to get a pictures of the top accounts so I'm just going to enumerate them to you:

Corporate Accounts:

1) Sagittarius Mines Inc.

2) SM Retail

3) SM Prime Holdings

Government Accounts:

1) National Irrigation Administration

2) Department of Interior and Local Government XII

3) Department of Agriculture XII

They also have Citation Awards for their partners:

* Phoenix Petroleum

* Tanduay Distillers

* Commission on Election

They also have some buwis-buhay entertainment: bartender-jugglers and fire dancers. Again, no pictures na naman.  So sad!

So, while all of these are happening, I am at the back of the stage directing the sounds, lights, videos and performers.

Lovin' the headsets. No need to shout and run just to give out instructions.

Too bad I was not able to take a lot of pictures during the event. ^_^ It was a really wonderful photo op. Sayang talaga! I was only able to take pics after the program na.

The last crepe that I ate that night

My fave Quesadillas and Nachos

Pasta Carbonara

Cheers to SunCity Suites and more power to you guys. See you again next year!

SunCity Suites Anniversary Party: It just keeps getting better every year.

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