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 

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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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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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

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.

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

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.

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