Birthday Dinner at Brique Restobar Cebu I A Memorable Family Dining Experience

 

A Memorable Birthday Dinner at Brique Modern Kitchen – SM Seaside Cebu City

Celebrating special moments with family becomes even more meaningful when paired with good food, warm ambiance, and unforgettable memories. Our recent dining experience at Brique Modern Kitchen in SM Seaside City Cebu was exactly that—an extra ordinary evening made even more special because it was the natal day of our firstborn pretty daughter.

We arrived around 8:30 PM, excited to celebrate her birthday with a cozy family dinner. From the moment we stepped inside, the restobar immediately gave us a welcoming and relaxing vibe. The warm lighting, modern rustic interiors, stylish brick-inspired design, and comfortable seating created a perfect setting for a birthday celebration. It felt elegant yet casual—ideal for family gatherings, date nights, and special occasions.

Brique Modern Kitchen Location and Operating Hours

Brique Modern Kitchen is located on the 3rd Floor of SM Seaside City Cebu, South Road Properties, Cebu City.

Operating Hours:

Daily: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Its convenient location inside one of Cebu’s premier malls makes it a perfect dining destination whether for lunch, dinner, or celebrations like ours.

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The Ambience: Cozy, Stylish, and Perfect for Celebrations

One of the things we loved most about Brique was the ambience. The restaurant has a modern restobar concept with soft warm lighting, elegant wooden furniture, and a cozy upscale atmosphere without feeling too formal. Even though we came in late evening, the place still felt lively yet peaceful enough for meaningful family conversations.

The interior gives a classy but comfortable dining experience—perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simple family dinners. The staff were accommodating and attentive, which made the experience even better.

After placing our orders, we waited around 15 to 20 minutes, which was quite reasonable considering the quality and presentation of the dishes served.

Our Birthday Dinner Feast

We ordered a wonderful variety of their signature meals, main courses, desserts, and refreshing beverages.

Signature Main Courses We Tried

Brique Chops

This was one of our favorite dishes of the night. Brique Chops features two cuts of pork chops topped with rich truffle herb butter, making it flavorful, juicy, and satisfying. The pork was tender and perfectly seasoned, making it an excellent main course choice. 

Camaron

The shrimp dish with potato chips we ordered was their Camaron, a delicious starter featuring shrimp prepared with rich flavor and served beautifully. The crispy texture paired well with the shrimp, making it a great appetizer before the heavier mains. 

Oat Crusted Fish Fillet

Our fish fillet with pasta and salad was likely their Oat Crusted Fish Fillet, which had a light crispy coating while staying moist and tender inside. It paired wonderfully with the pasta and fresh salad on the side, giving a balanced and satisfying meal.

Flat Bread with Olives

Their flat bread served with olives added a nice Mediterranean touch to the table. Light, savory, and perfect for sharing, it complemented the rest of our dishes beautifully.

Roast Beef with Mushroom Gravy

For our beef meal, we enjoyed Roast Beef with Mushroom Gravy—a rich and hearty entrée featuring tender beef short plate coated with herbs and served with creamy mushroom gravy. It was flavorful, filling, and perfect for those craving something indulgent. 

Creamy Carbonara

Their Carbonara was another standout. Made with bacon, mushroom, and grated Parmesan in a rich cream sauce, it was creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Definitely one of their best pasta dishes and highly recommended for pasta lovers. 

Birthday Dessert Surprise

Concorde Choco Cake with Happy Birthday Greeting

Since it was our daughter’s birthday, we made sure to order their chocolate cake for a sweet celebration. We chose the Concorde Choco Cake, a rich dessert with layers of crunchy meringue and mousse that made the perfect birthday treat.

What made it extra special was the “Happy Birthday” greeting prepared for her. Seeing her smile while the cake arrived at our table was truly priceless. It turned an ordinary dinner into a heartfelt family memory we will always treasure.

Refreshing Beverages

To complement our meals, we ordered:

Lemony Iced Tea

Refreshing, balanced, and perfect for sharing, their Lemony Iced Tea helped cleanse the palate between rich dishes. 

Orange Mix Drink

We also had an orange-based refreshing beverage that added a fruity and vibrant touch to our dinner. It paired nicely with both the mains and dessert.

Brique also offers cocktails and signature drinks such as Sunrise, Earl Grey Lemonade, Guava Pinya, Guava Lime Iced Tea, and even Vietnamese Iced Coffee for guests looking for something more exciting beyond the usual beverages. 

Final Thoughts: Is Brique Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—yes.

Our dining experience at Brique Modern Kitchen was memorable not only because of the delicious food but because of the entire experience. The excellent ambience, attentive service, beautiful presentation, and satisfying meals made our daughter’s birthday celebration truly special.

From the Brique Chops and Creamy Carbonara to the Roast Beef with Mushroom Gravy and the unforgettable birthday chocolate cake, every dish contributed to a wonderful evening.

If you are looking for a restaurant in Cebu City for family dinners, birthdays, date nights, or casual celebrations, Brique Modern Kitchen at SM Seaside is definitely worth adding to your list.

Sometimes, the best celebrations are not the grandest ones—but the simplest dinners shared with the people you love most. And for us, this birthday dinner at Brique was exactly that: simple, beautiful, and unforgettable.

UP High School Cebu SHSAT 2026: Complete Admission Guide and Our Real Application Experience

Parent’s Journey: Applying to UP High School Cebu (SHSAT 2026 Guide &  Experience)
Applying to a prestigious school is both exciting and nerve-wracking—especially when it’s your child’s future on the line. As a parent, I recently went through the Senior High School Admission Test (SHSAT) application process at University of the Philippines Cebu, specifically for UP High School Cebu in Lahug, Cebu City.
In this blog post, I’ll share our real experience applying on the last day (April 8, 2026), along with a complete, guide to the SHSAT requirements, qualifications, and process.
Why Choose UP High School Cebu?
University of the Philippines is known for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. One of its key principles is democratized access, which aims to give economically disadvantaged but deserving students the opportunity to access quality education.
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UP High School Cebu also recognizes:
* Children of UP Cebu alumni
* Dependents of UP personnel
* Students with strong athletic potential
This makes the school not just academically competitive, but also inclusive and holistic in developing students.
SHSAT 2026 Important Dates
Here are the key dates every parent and student should remember:
- January 5, 2026 – Start of application
- April 8, 2026 – Last day of application (this is when we applied!)
- April 10, 2026 – Release of test permits
- April 12, 2026 – SHSAT Exam Day
- April 20, 2026 – Release of results
- May 4–6, 2026 – Pre-enrollment of qualifiers 
Timing is critical—especially if you plan to submit on the last day like we did.
Eligibility Requirements for SHSAT
To qualify under the Democratized Access Program, applicants must:
- Be a Grade 10 completer
- Have not previously studied in another high school
- Have no grade below 80
- Maintain a conduct grade of at least B
- Come from a family with annual income of ₱300,000 or below
- Pass the SHSAT
Other categories include:
- Children of UP personnel
- Children of UP Cebu alumni
- Varsity athletes (with additional screening)
Required Documents for Application
We made sure to prepare all documents ahead of time. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Requirements:
- Two (2) recent 2x2 photos
- Certified true copies of:
  * Grade 9 report card
  * Latest Grade 10 report card
- Income documents (BIR Form 2316, affidavit, or business tax)
- Utility bills (electricity and internet)
- Vicinity map of residence
- Photos of the house (inside and outside, with the applicant)
⚠️ Important: Documents must have original signatures from the school principal or adviser.
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Our Actual Experience (April 8, 2026)
We decided to submit our son’s application on the last day of filing, which made the experience even more intense—but memorable.
Morning: Securing School Documents
We started our day at Marigondon National High School to request certified true copies of his Grade 9 and Grade 10 report cards.
- We photocopied the originals beforehand
- The process took around 30 minutes
- Everything went smoothly at the school office
Preparing the Requirements
Before heading to UP Cebu, we ensured we had everything:
✔️ 2x2 colored photos
✔️ Photos of our son inside and outside our house
✔️ Income tax documents (both parents)
✔️ Printed internet bills (last 2 months)
✔️ All required forms and copies
Preparation really made a difference—we avoided last-minute stress.
Arrival at UP Cebu: Beating the Deadline
We arrived at University of the Philippines Cebu at 3:30 PM, just in time before the 4:00 PM cut-off. Honestly, it felt like a race against time—but we made it.
After submitting the documents:
- Our son’s application was accepted
- He was actually the last student to be interviewed that day
The Interview Process
The application doesn’t end with document submission. There’s also an interview stage, which is a crucial part of the screening.
Student Interview
- Took around 1 hour
- Conducted by a faculty member
- Focused on:
* Academic readiness
* Character and behavior
* Communication skills
Parent Interview
After our son, it was our turn as parents.
- Duration: about 30 minutes
- Topics included:
* Family background
* Support for the student
* Verification of submitted information
This step ensures the authenticity of the application and alignment with UP’s values.
What Happens After the Interview?
After completing the interview process:
- We were told to wait for the results
- The outcome would be released on April 10, 2026
- This is also the same day for:
* Test permit distribution
The test permit is essential—it means your child is officially qualified to take the SHSAT on April 12, 2026.
SHSAT Coverage
The Senior High School Admission Test (SHSAT) includes:
* Mental Ability
* English
* Filipino
* Mathematics
* Social Studies
* Science
📌 Note: All subjects are in English except Filipino.
Application Fees
₱300 application and testing fee
Paid at the UP Cebu Cashier
Non-refundable
Tips for Parents and Students
Based on our experience, here are some helpful tips:
1. Prepare Early
Don’t wait until the last day like we did (unless necessary). Gathering documents takes time.
2. Double-Check Requirements
Incomplete documents can lead to rejection.
3. Be Present as Parents
Applicants must be accompanied by parents—no exceptions.
4. Practice for the Interview
Help your child build confidence in answering questions.
5. Arrive Early
Cut-off times are strictly followed.
A Moment of Gratitude
After everything—the rush, the preparation, the interviews—we felt nothing but gratitude. We thank God that:
* Our son’s application was accepted
* He successfully completed the interview stage
Now, we are prayerfully waiting for the test permit release this April 10, 2026, hoping for positive results as he moves one step closer to becoming part of UP High School Cebu.
Final Thoughts
Applying to UP High School Cebu is not just about meeting academic requirements—it’s about determination, preparation, and faith.
For parents planning to apply, I hope this guide and our personal experience help you navigate the process with confidence.
This journey reminded me that sometimes, even when you’re racing against time, everything falls into place with preparation, perseverance, and trust in God.



Congratulations, Engr. Meachel Gasang-Bonita!

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to EXCEL REVIEW CENTER for their invaluable support and guidance throughout my review journey, which led to my success in passing the board examination and earning the title of Engineer. As the instructors often emphasized, the review process is the most challenging stage, and I am truly grateful to have had their unwavering support every step of the way.
The knowledge, mentorship, and encouragement from the instructors and staff have significantly contributed to my professional growth and strengthened my determination to succeed.

Above all, I am deeply grateful to our Almighty Father for this blessing and for giving me the strength, wisdom, and perseverance to overcome every challenge along the way.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my parents Papa Sonny (in Heaven) & Mama Merlyn Gasang, siblings (Cristian, Merson, Christine Mae, & Christone Hades), husband Engr. Terence, children (Tara Mikayla, Mike Terence, Meachel Terrin & Tinker Myles), relatives in Manticao, Misamis Oriental (my birthplace) & elsewhere, mother/brother/sister-in-laws, classmates (elementary: Manticao Central School, high school: MSU-NFHS, college: MSU-IIT), all my teachers/advisers and professors, colleagues (Celestica, Flextronics, & Lexmark), mom friends & friends for their constant love, encouragement, and belief in me.

ENGR. MEACHEL GASANG-BONITA

📌Electronics Engineer Licensure Exam Results Announcement- March 2026

📌March 2026 Electronics Engineers and Electronics Technicians Licensure Examinations Results  Released in Two (2) Working Days

📌List of Successful Examinees in the Electronics Engineers Licensure Examination






Coffee & Matcha Break at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel – NAIA Terminal 3 Pasay City

 

Coffee & Matcha Break at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel – NAIA Terminal 3 (Pasay City)

Travel days can be exhausting, especially when you have a few hours to spare before boarding your flight. Instead of wandering around the terminal, finding a comfortable place where you can relax, recharge your devices, and enjoy a good snack makes the wait much more pleasant. During our recent trip, we discovered exactly that kind of spot at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel, located inside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.

While waiting for our flight back to Cebu, we decided to take a short coffee and matcha break at this cozy boutique café on the 4th Floor (South Wing) of the airport. What started as a quick snack stop turned into a surprisingly memorable and relaxing moment before our journey home.

A Hidden Coffee Spot Inside NAIA Terminal 3

Located away from the busiest sections of the terminal, M Boutique by The Manila Hotel offers a quiet and comfortable corner for travelers who want to slow down for a bit. The café carries the elegance and heritage of The Manila Hotel, one of the most iconic hotels in the Philippines.

The café’s design feels modern yet warm. The interior features a boutique-style setup with clean lines, warm lighting, and stylish shelves showcasing premium products and delicacies. It doesn’t feel like the usual rushed airport café where people grab their drinks and leave immediately. Instead, it feels like a small lounge where travelers can sit down, breathe, and enjoy the moment.

When we arrived around 4:00 PM, the café had a calm afternoon atmosphere. A few travelers were quietly sipping coffee, some typing on their laptops, while others were simply relaxing while waiting for their flights. It felt like the perfect mid-afternoon pause during a busy travel

Our Order: Special Bibingka Combo with Hot Matcha Latte

Since it was already mid-afternoon snack time, we decided to try something that felt both comforting and uniquely Filipino. We ordered the Special Bibingka Combo Snacks, paired with a hot matcha latte.

Bibingka is a beloved Filipino rice cake traditionally cooked in clay pots lined with banana leaves. It is slightly sweet, soft, and fluffy with a subtle smoky aroma. At M Boutique, the bibingka was served warm and fresh, making it an ideal snack to pair with a hot drink.

The bibingka had that classic comforting flavor — soft rice cake with a light sweetness and a delicious buttery aroma. It’s the kind of snack that instantly reminds you of home, especially for travelers heading back to the provinces.

To complement the bibingka, we ordered a hot matcha latte. The drink was smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The earthy flavor of the matcha blended well with the milk, creating a comforting and relaxing drink. After a long day of travel activities, that warm cup of matcha felt incredibly soothing.

The combination of Filipino bibingka and Japanese matcha may sound unusual at first, but it actually worked beautifully together.

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A Curious Little Visitor: The Maya Bird

One of the most unexpected moments during our visit happened while we were waiting for our order. As we sat quietly at our table, a tiny maya bird suddenly appeared and hopped under our table, seemingly searching for some crumbs or treats. It was such a surprising and amusing sight to see a small bird wandering around inside an airport café.

We couldn’t help but wonder how the bird managed to get inside the terminal in the first place. Airports are usually tightly secured spaces, so spotting a little bird casually exploring under the tables felt like a funny and charming moment.

The bird stayed for a short while, hopping around curiously before flying away again. It was a small moment, but it made our coffee break even more memorable. Sometimes travel memories are made not just by the places you visit, but also by the little unexpected encounters along the way.

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Perfect for Travelers Waiting for Their Flight

One of the best things about M Boutique by The Manila Hotel is how traveler-friendly it is. Airport waiting areas can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when you need to charge your devices or get some work done before boarding. Fortunately, this café makes things easier.

Several tables are equipped with power supply outlets, allowing guests to conveniently plug in their laptops, phones, or other gadgets while enjoying their drinks and snacks. For travelers like us who always have phones, tablets, and sometimes laptops running low on battery, this feature is incredibly helpful. Instead of sitting on the airport floor near a charging station, you can relax in a comfortable seat while your devices charge. It’s the kind of place where time slows down a little — something every traveler appreciates before heading back into the busy airport environment.

  • The café also provides a quiet and cozy atmosphere, making it suitable for:
  • - Remote work while traveling
  • - Relaxing before a flight
  • - Casual meetings
  • - Quick snack breaks during layovers

Easy to Find Inside NAIA Terminal 3

Accessibility is another reason why M Boutique is a great stop for travelers. Located on the 4th Floor (South Wing) of NAIA Terminal 3, the café is easy to reach whether you're arriving early for your flight or just exploring the terminal while waiting.

Instead of settling for crowded fast-food spots, travelers can enjoy a more relaxing café experience here. The boutique café vibe feels more personal and comfortable compared to the typical airport dining options.

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A Relaxing Pause Before Flying Back to Cebu

Our coffee and matcha break at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel turned out to be a lovely way to end our time in Manila before flying back to Cebu. Between the warm bibingka snack, the smooth matcha latte, the comfortable seating, and the surprise visit from the little maya bird, the experience felt simple yet memorable.

Travel often involves rushing from one place to another, but moments like this remind us to slow down and enjoy the small experiences along the journey. If you ever find yourself with extra time inside NAIA Terminal 3, consider stopping by M Boutique for a quick coffee or snack break. Whether you're craving a comforting Filipino treat or simply looking for a quiet place to recharge your devices and relax, this café offers a cozy little escape inside the busy airport.

Sometimes, the best travel memories happen in the most unexpected places — even inside an airport café. 🍵❤🛪

Our Family Staycation at Jaynet Oceanview Resort – A Simple, Relaxing Oceanfront Escape in South Cebu


Our Family Staycation at Jaynet Oceanview Resort – A Simple, Relaxing Oceanfront Escape in South Cebu 🌊

If you’re searching for a quiet, family-friendly oceanfront resort in South Cebu, our 1-night staycation at Jaynet Oceanview Resort in Boljoon is definitely worth sharing. This stay turned out to be a refreshing break from city life—simple, affordable, and genuinely relaxing, especially for families who love the sea.

We booked a Family Room good for six with a full ocean view, a place to stay after attending the Family Day 2026 activity of our youngest daughter at Philippine Science High School - Central Visayas Campus and from the moment we arrived, we knew we had made the right choice. 

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📍 Location: Easy to Find and Very Accessible

One of the things we appreciated most about Jaynet Oceanview Resort is its strategic location. The resort is situated along the national highway in Boljoon, making it very easy to reach whether you’re coming from Cebu City or nearby southern towns.

There’s no need to pass through narrow barangay roads or rough terrain, which is a big plus when traveling with kids, elders, or a fully loaded vehicle. It’s the kind of place you can conveniently stop at without worrying about accessibility.

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🚗 Parking Situation: Limited but Manageable

Since the resort is compact, parking space is limited, but still manageable:

  • 1–2 vehicles can park inside the resort
  • Around 3–5 vehicles can park outside, just beside the building along the highway

For families traveling in one or two cars, this setup works fine. Just keep this in mind if you’re visiting in a larger group with multiple vehicles.

🛏️ Family Room with Full Ocean View (Good for 6)

We stayed in a family room designed for six guests, and the space was comfortable enough for everyone. What truly stood out was the full ocean view—a feature that instantly elevates the entire stay.

Waking up to the sight of the sea, hearing gentle waves, and watching the sunlight reflect on the water made our short stay feel longer and more relaxing. It’s the kind of view that helps you slow down, even if you’re only staying overnight.

  • This room setup is ideal for:
  • - Families who want to stay together
  • - Small groups or barkadas
  • - Budget-conscious travelers who still want a scenic view

Jaynet Oceanview Resort, Cebu, Philippines - Book Now at Agoda.com


🏊 Infinity Pool with a View of the Sea

Jaynet Oceanview Resort has a lovely infinity pool facing the ocean, and this quickly became a favorite spot for both kids and adults. The pool area is perfect for:

  • - Cooling off during the day
  • - Relaxing while enjoying the sea breeze
  • - Taking photos with the ocean as your backdrop

It’s not overly crowded, and the calm atmosphere makes it easy to unwind without feeling rushed or overstimulated.

🏖️ White Sand Beach During Low Tide

Another pleasant surprise during our stay was the white sand beach that becomes visible during low tide. While it may not be a wide beach like those in popular tourist islands, it’s still a beautiful natural feature that adds charm to the resort.

  • During low tide, guests can:
  • - Walk along the shoreline
  • - Let kids play and explore safely
  • - Enjoy quiet moments by the sea
  • - Take photos with the exposed sand and rocks

It’s a simple but memorable experience, especially for families who enjoy being close to nature.

🍱 No Corkage Fee – Bring Your Own Food!

One major highlight of Jaynet Oceanview Resort is its no corkage fee policy. Guests are free to bring food and drinks from outside, which is a huge advantage for families and budget travelers. Whether you prefer home-cooked meals, takeout from nearby towns, or your own snacks and drinks, you won’t be charged extra for bringing them in.

🍳 Guest Cooking Area and Pantry

What makes this resort even more family-friendly is the availability of a shared cooking area and pantry for guests. If you enjoy cooking or want to prepare meals for your family, this setup is incredibly convenient. Not all resorts offer this kind of flexibility, so it’s definitely a big plus.

  • This feature is perfect for:
  • - Families with kids
  • - Guests with dietary preferences
  • - Longer stays
  • - Travelers who want to save on food expenses

🍽️ Optional Breakfast and Dinner

If you don’t feel like cooking, no worries—the resort also allows guests to order breakfast and dinner. This gives you the best of both worlds:

  • - Cook your own meals if you want
  • - Order food when you’d rather relax

This flexibility makes the stay more comfortable and stress-free, especially for short vacations.

🌴 Overall Atmosphere and Experience

Jaynet Oceanview Resort is simple, quiet, and laid-back. It’s not a luxury resort, but it doesn’t try to be—and that’s part of its charm. 

  • The focus is on:
  • - Comfort
  • - Relaxation 
  • - Accessibility
  • - Family-friendly features

For a 1-night staycation, it gave us exactly what we needed: rest, sea views, quality family time, and a break from everyday routines.

Quick yoga at the pool.

⭐ Why We Recommend Jaynet Oceanview Resort in Boljoon, Cebu

✔ Family room good for six
✔ Full ocean view
✔ Infinity pool overlooking the sea
✔ White sand beach visible during low tide
✔ No corkage fee
✔ Guest cooking area and pantry
✔ Optional breakfast and dinner
✔ Located along the national highway
✔ Ideal for short family staycations

If you’re planning a quick South Cebu getaway, a budget-friendly family staycation, or simply want a peaceful oceanfront resort in Boljoon, Jaynet Oceanview Resort is a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers who value simplicity, flexibility, and beautiful sea views over luxury frills.

Even with just one night, our stay felt restful and meaningful—and sometimes, that’s all you really need. 💙