On May 2025, I exercised my right to vote in Lapu-Lapu City, and I’d like to share my experience to help future voters understand what to expect and encourage more people to participate wisely in our democratic process.

My husband and I arrived at the public school precinct at around 3:30 PM. Beforehand, I made sure to check my precinct number via COMELEC’s Voter Precinct Finder online service, and confirmed my cluster number from the printed list displayed at the school entrance. This helped speed things up and reduce confusion during the process.

From the moment I lined up at the correct precinct to the time I finished voting, the entire process took approximately 45 minutes. I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth and organized everything was compared to the 2022 elections. The queue was shorter in the classrooms, and the staff were polite and helpful.

Inside the precinct, voters were asked to present a valid ID and either their sequence number (if known) or last name for verification. What impressed me was the matching ID photo system, which added an extra layer of security, ensuring that each person voted under their true identity.

The ballot included candidates all the official candidates for:

* 12 Senators
* 1 Congress Representative
* Mayor
* Vice Mayor
* 12 City Councilors
* 1 Party List

Filling out the ballot took me around 10 to 15 minutes. It could’ve been faster if I had brought a pre-listed set of my preferred candidates. I strongly recommend this tip for future voters to save time and stay focused.

Tips for Future Voters

To ensure we elect the right leaders, here are some of my personal voting tips:

1. Do your research – Review each candidate’s educational background, as this is a strong foundation for decision-making and leadership.

2. Evaluate their intentions and platforms – Know how they plan to serve the country and if their visions align with what the nation needs.

3. Check their integrity– A good leader should have no history of misconduct or corruption and should be a good citizen in the community.

4. Don’t fear change – Give new and qualified candidates a chance, especially if they have a genuine heart to serve.

A Call to the Government: Start Voter Education Early

I firmly believe that voter literacy should be a part of the secondary school curriculum. Our youth must understand the value and responsibility of their vote. Back in 2014, the late Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago pushed for a Voter's Education Bill. Sadly, it’s still pending in the Senate. I hope the current government revisits and approves it soon, so we can better prepare our future electorate.

In conclusion, I’m proud to say that I voted wisely in the 2025 elections. I encourage everyone, especially the youth and first-time voters, to take the process seriously. Let’s not just vote for popularity, but for qualification, sincerity, and integrity.

May God bless the Philippines as we continue to work together in choosing leaders who will uplift and serve the nation. Vote wisely!

A Magical Stargazing Experience at Akutsu Cebu Observatory 🌌✨

If you're looking for a truly awe-inspiring stargazing experience in Cebu, Akutsu Cebu Observatory is a hidden gem you absolutely must visit. Nestled in the highlands of Cebu along the scenic Transcentral Highway, this unique observatory offers visitors a rare chance to witness planets, stars, and constellations through powerful telescopes—guided by no less than Mr. Akutsu himself, the passionate owner and builder of these stellar instruments.

📍 Exact Location & Business Hours
Akutsu Observatory Cebu is located approximately 5.2 kilometers from the crossing of the Transcentral Highway in Cebu City. This makes it a peaceful retreat away from the hustle of the city, yet still easily accessible by car or motorcycle.

🕓 Business Hours:
Open Daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
(Perfect timing to catch the breathtaking night sky!)

🌠 Our Visit: Stargazing Begins at Twilight
We arrived at the observatory at around 6:00 PM, greeted warmly by the friendly staff—and most notably, by Mr. Akutsu and his wife, who welcomed us with genuine hospitality. The entrance fee is ₱599 per person, which includes a guided stargazing session and a dinner meal, which we chose at the mini café inside the observatory.
As we were selecting our meals and settling in, Mr. Akutsu was already busy preparing the different kinds of telescopes. The anticipation was building.

🔭 First Glimpse: Jupiter Up Close
Soon, we were called to the first telescope in front of the café—and wow, what a moment! For the first time in our lives, we saw Jupiter with our own eyes. Through Mr. Akutsu’s high-powered telescope, we could clearly see the planet’s majestic form along with three of its nearby moons. It felt like we were peeking into a different world, billions of miles away.

🔴 The Red Planet, Our Lovely Moon & More
From Jupiter, we moved to another telescope aimed at Mars—the red planet. It was surreal! The deep red hue was striking even from such a great distance. After that, we turned our gaze to our lovely Moon, which appeared incredibly detailed and soft-lit. We could even see the craters clearly, like little valleys and mountains bathed in silver light.

🌌 A Laser-Pen Tour of the Constellations
The evening didn’t stop there. Mr. Akutsu led us to the viewing deck, where he used a powerful laser pointer to map out the constellations visible that night. We saw the Southern Cross, the Big Dipper, and several others. His laser pointer was so sharp it felt like it was touching the stars themselves—a truly mesmerizing experience.
He then invited us into his personal dome, where he lies on a small bed to observe the stars from his custom-made space. It was like stepping into a scene from a sci-fi movie!

🌌 The Sky Sparkles with Stars from the Milky Way
Back outside, he adjusted his telescope again—this time to show us various stars in the Milky Way. It looked like a bed of sparkling jewels scattered across the night sky. He shared that **building these powerful telescopes is his lifelong hobby, and opening the observatory to the public helps maintain and improve them.

🪐 Visit Again for Saturn — Best Time: November to December
Mr. Akutsu recommended coming back around November to December, when Saturn will be in its best viewing position. It's an event we definitely won’t miss!

With my Mama Merlyn.

🥶 Cool Climate & Edible Garden
Aside from the celestial views, the cool mountain climate—ranging between 23 to 27°C—was such a refreshing escape from the heat of Cebu City or Lapu-Lapu. The observatory grounds are also surrounded by fruit-bearing plants and vegetables: we saw strawberries, pomegranates, mulberries, papayas, and various local vegetables. It felt like a peaceful little farm nestled in the sky.

⭐ Why You Should Visit Akutsu Observatory Cebu
- 📍 Strategic location in the mountains
- 🔭 One-of-a-kind telescopes for deep-sky viewing
- 👨‍🔬 Guided by Mr. Akutsu himself
- 🍽️ Dinner included in the entrance fee
- 🌡️ Cool Baguio-like weather in Cebu
- 🍓 Fruit and vegetable garden on-site

With Mr. Akutsu. 🙏 Mama took the shot😜

Whether you're a curious stargazer, a science lover, or a family looking for a unique bonding activity—Akutsu Cebu Observatory is a must-visit destination that combines astronomy, hospitality, and nature in one unforgettable experience.

Have you visited Akutsu Cebu Observatory yet?
Let us know your favorite part in the comments below! 🌟

Easy Basque Burnt Cheesecake Recipe 🧀

A Heartwarming Homemade Treat for My Daughter

It all started when I bought a Basque burnt cheesecake for my husband's birthday this year. It was rich, creamy, and had that signature caramelized top that melts in your mouth. But the surprise? My youngest daughter — who’s not even big on sweets — loved it. She’s currently in boarding school and only comes home once a week, but recently, she’s been craving that same cheesecake.

So this week, knowing she’s coming home Friday evening, I decided to surprise her with a homemade Basque burnt cheesecake — made with love, a few tweaks, and using what I had in my kitchen.

🧁 Why This Recipe Works (and What Makes It Special)

✅ No heavy cream: I used full-fat Greek yogurt as a substitute — and it turned out deliciously creamy with a slight tang.
✅ Blender method: I used my blender to mix the cream cheese and other ingredients — super quick and smooth!
✅ Burnt top perfection: I added 10 extra minutes of oven time to achieve that deep golden, slightly charred top we all love.

🍰 Easy Basque Burnt Cheesecake Recipe (Serves 6–8)

📋 Ingredients:

* 500g cream cheese (room temperature)
* 200g granulated sugar (1 cup)
* 4 large eggs (room temperature)
* 250ml plain full-fat Greek yogurt (as a substitute for heavy cream)
* 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

🔧 Equipment:

* 8-inch round cake pan or springform
* Parchment paper
* Blender (or hand/stand mixer)
* diy cheesecake box

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F). Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for that rustic look.
2. Blend all ingredients: In a blender, combine the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, yogurt, vanilla, salt, and flour. Blend until silky smooth (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour into pan and gently tap to remove bubbles.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, then add 10 more minutes to get that signature burnt top. The center should still jiggle slightly.
5. Cool at room temperature, then chill for 4 hours or overnight before slicing. (Though I’ll admit, a warm slice is hard to resist!)

💡 Tips:

* The blender method makes cleanup easy and the batter super smooth.
* Greek yogurt gives a lighter, slightly tangy finish. If using cream instead, expect a richer bite.
* The added baking time brings out the caramel notes and burnt edges — don’t skip it!

❤️ A Sweet Ending (Or Beginning!)

I can't wait to see the smile on my daughter's face when she walks through the door this Friday. Homemade doesn’t just mean saving a few pesos — it means memories, love, and the comfort of something warm waiting at home.

Whether you’re baking this for a loved one or just craving something special, this Basque burnt cheesecake with yogurt is the perfect easy treat to try.

Honored to Be Named One of Feedspot’s Top 25 Philippines Women Blogs 2025!

Hello everyone! 💛

I’m incredibly excited (and honestly, still a bit in awe) to share some wonderful news — our family blog Justmom has been recognized as one of Feedspot’s Top 25 Philippines Women Blogs for 2025! 🇵🇭🎉

I received a kind and heartfelt email from Feedspot’s founder, and I can’t describe the joy I felt reading it. This blog, which started as a humble space to share my day-to-day experiences as a mom of four and a wife based in Cebu, has grown into something more meaningful — and this recognition feels like a beautiful reminder that our everyday stories matter.

What Our Blog Justmom Is All About

For those who are new here — welcome! This blog is all about our family’s real-life journey. I share snippets of our daily life as a big family living in Cebu, Philippines, from our simple routines to our exciting adventures.

Here are some of the stories you’ll find here:

Our family travel experiences around the Philippines and abroad ✈️
Our kids’ competitions, both local and international 🌍🏅
Dining experiences and food discoveries across the country and overseas 🍽️
My routines for physical health and wellness as a busy mom 💪
The meals I lovingly prepare for my husband and our four children at home 🥘

It’s a blog filled with joy, chaos, heartwarming moments, and honest reflections — just like our everyday life.

Not a Tech Blog (But I Do That Too!)

Although I’m a Hardware Design Engineer by profession and work with international clients on PCB design and embedded systems, I keep my technical work on a separate website dedicated to our business. This blog is purely personal — a digital scrapbook of memories and milestones we hold dear.

But if you're curious about the tech side of things, feel free to reach out or explore our engineering services site. I’m always happy to connect!

Grateful Beyond Words

Being included in the Top 25 Philippines Women Blogs 2025 is truly an honor. I’m thankful to Feedspot for this recognition, and even more thankful to you, my dear readers, for being part of this journey. Your visits, messages, shares, and words of encouragement fuel this blog.

To my fellow moms, wives, and women who are navigating life one day at a time — this recognition is for you too. May we all continue to find beauty in the ordinary and strength in our stories.

From my heart to yours, thank you. 💐

A Delightful Dining Experience at Sungka Native Restaurant: Where Food Meets Nature

If you're looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in Cebu, **Sungka Native Restaurant** should definitely be on your list. Tucked in the heart of **Basak, Lapu-Lapu City**, this native-themed restaurant offers not only mouthwatering Filipino dishes but also a charming, nature-inspired ambiance that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

Our Order: A Feast for the Senses

We recently visited **Sungka Native Restaurant** to celebrate a very special occasion—**Rain's birthday**—and it turned out to be a delightful culinary adventure! Here's what we ordered:

- 🐟 **Seafood Platter** – A generous serving of grilled and fried seafood favorites including shrimp, fish, and squid, perfect for sharing.

- 🍢 **Pork BBQ** – Tender, flavorful skewers grilled to perfection.

- 🐠 **Fish Tinola** – A comforting soup with fish, green papaya, and leafy greens served hot and brimming with home-cooked goodness.

- 🍚 **Two Platter Rice** – Plenty enough for the whole group.

- 🍹 **Pitcher of Iced Tea and Lemonade** – Refreshing drinks that complemented our meals.

- 🎂 **A Slice of Cake** – For our birthday girl, Rain, which made the celebration even sweeter.

Unique Features: Dining with the Koi

What truly sets **Sungka Native Restaurant** apart is its **one-of-a-kind dining setup**. The wooden dining tables are surrounded by a **large koi fish pond**, giving diners a serene, zen-like atmosphere. Watching the koi fish swim around as you enjoy your food adds a peaceful and interactive element to the dining experience. Kids and adults alike are amazed by the sheer size and colors of these koi!

Must-Try: The Famous Bakasi Meals

While we didn’t get to try it this time, one of Sungka’s **signature dishes is their Bakasi meal**—a local delicacy made from eel that’s popular in the coastal areas of Cebu. It’s a must-try if you’re feeling adventurous or if you want to experience authentic Cebuano cuisine.

Location and Business Hours

📍 **Sungka Native Restaurant** is located at **Sitio Soong, Brgy. Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu**, just a few minutes from major resorts and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

🕒 **Business Hours**:

Monday to Sunday – **10:00 AM to 10:00 PM**

Whether you're dropping by for lunch or looking to unwind after a long day, the restaurant is open daily and ready to serve.

Final Thoughts and Rating

Our overall dining experience at **Sungka Native Restaurant** was nothing short of delightful. From the friendly staff, beautifully presented meals, and tranquil pond setting to the surprise birthday cake for Rain, it was a celebration to remember.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ **Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars**

✅ **Food** – 4.5

✅ **Ambiance** – 5.0

✅ **Service** – 4.7

✅ **Value for Money** – 4.6

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy great food while being surrounded by nature and a touch of Filipino tradition, Sungka Native Restaurant should be on top of your list. It's perfect for families, groups, or even quiet lunch dates.

A Fun-Filled Family Movie Night at SM Cinema Cebu City

Looking for a great way to bond with the family on a special occasion? A movie night at SM Cinema Cebu City might be the perfect idea! Last Friday night, we took our kids out for a movie as part of my husband’s birthday celebration, and it was an experience worth sharing.

Movie Night: Captain America – Brave New World

We watched Captain America: Brave New World at 8:45 PM, excited to see how Sam Wilson takes on the mantle of Captain America in this latest installment. The movie had its fair share of action, thrilling sequences, and thought-provoking moments, but according to our kids, the villain in this film didn’t quite match the intensity of past Captain America villains. That was an interesting observation, and it sparked some fun debates among us after the movie.

A Cinema Experience with an Unexpected Twist

Everything was going smoothly—immersed in the movie, munching on our snacks—until something unexpected happened. Past halfway into the movie, the big screen suddenly went dark! Only the sound remained, and for a moment, we weren’t sure if this was part of the movie or a technical issue with the cinema’s display. It left us confused yet amused because nobody in the audience knew for sure! Despite the brief disruption, we still enjoyed the film and the time spent together.

The Weekend Crowd and Our Movie Snacks

As expected on a Friday night, the theater was quite full, especially the center section, which was nearly packed with fellow moviegoers. It's always nice to watch a movie in a lively atmosphere, especially when people react to exciting scenes in sync!

And of course, what’s a movie night without some delicious snacks? We indulged in:

Terra fries from Potato Corner
Three large popcorns with cheese, sour cream, and chili barbecue flavors
Nestea iced tea and zero sugar Coke for drinks
A small cup of rocky road ice cream for that sweet ending

It was the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and refreshing treats to keep us company throughout the film.

A Birthday Celebration to Remember

Celebrating my husband’s birthday this way made it extra special. Simple yet memorable, a family movie night is a great way to unwind and enjoy quality time together. Whether it’s a birthday, a weekend treat, or just a spontaneous plan, a night at the movies is always a fun choice for families.

So if you’re looking for a bonding activity for your next family celebration, consider heading to SM Cinema Cebu City, grabbing some snacks, and enjoying a blockbuster movie together. Who knows? You might even have a surprise moment in the theater just like we did!

Have you had a fun movie night experience with your family? Share your stories in the comments!

Exploring NASA Space Camp Turkey with the Philippine Robotics National Team

Last November 2024, before the official start of the World Robotics Olympiad 2024 in Izmir, Turkey, our team had the incredible opportunity to visit NASA Space Camp Turkey. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left both the Philippine Robotics National Team and us parents amazed and inspired. Two of our sons were part of the delegation, along with coaches, national representatives, and fellow parents, all eager to explore the world of space science and astronaut training.

A Grand Welcome at NASA Space Camp Turkey

We arrived at the camp around 1 PM, and the moment we stepped in, we were warmly welcomed by the NASA Space Camp staff. They took us on an exciting tour of the facilities, introducing us to the incredible technology and hands-on learning experiences that make this camp one of the best space-themed educational programs in the world.

What’s Inside NASA Space Camp Turkey?

NASA Space Camp Turkey is designed to inspire young minds to explore space, technology, and robotics through immersive learning experiences. Here’s what we saw inside:

Astronaut Training Simulators – Delegates got to try spacewalk simulators, the multi-axis trainer, and the 1/6 gravity chair, experiencing the sensation of being in space just like real astronauts!
Mission Control Center – A state-of-the-art replica where students learned how real-life space missions are planned and executed.
Mars Exploration Lab – The team had the chance to navigate a simulated Martian surface, using robotic arms and sensors.
Rocket Building & Launching – Our young engineers constructed and launched their own rockets, learning about aerodynamics and propulsion in the process.
Space Shuttle Mockup – A life-sized space shuttle interior where the participants got to role-play as astronauts and mission controllers.
Planetarium & Space Science Museum – The immersive planetarium experience and exhibits about space exploration history truly captivated us all.

An Inspiring Opportunity for Young Innovators

As parents, witnessing our sons explore this one-of-a-kind learning camp was truly fulfilling. This experience not only expanded their knowledge in space science and robotics but also encouraged them to dream big and aim high. The limited slot encampment program at NASA Space Camp Turkey is offered to children from different countries by delegation, making it an exclusive opportunity for aspiring young scientists and engineers.

Join NASA Space Camp Turkey Next Year!

Every year, NASA Space Camp Turkey opens its doors to young tech enthusiasts worldwide. If you want to give your kids a techie space learning experience like no other, this is the camp to consider! Feel free to drop a message below if you're interested in letting your kids embark on this unforgettable journey into space exploration.

Our visit to NASA Space Camp Turkey was the perfect way to prepare and inspire the Philippine Robotics National Team before they took on the World Robotics Olympiad 2024. This experience reinforced their passion for innovation, proving that the future of space and robotics lies in the hands of the young minds we nurture today. 🚀🌌

A Delightful Lunch at Moon Café, Ayala Center Cebu

After running errands in Cebu City, my husband and I decided to have lunch at **Moon Café**, a well-known Mexican-inspired restobar located in **Ayala Center Cebu**. It was a quiet time of the day, with only one other group of two foreign diners sitting across from us. This gave us the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxing meal in a spacious and clean dining area with great service and delicious food.

Our Food Experience

We ordered two main dishes:

- **Sizzling Sisig with Egg (₱250)** – A Filipino classic, this dish was served sizzling hot with the perfect balance of crispy pork, onions, and chili, topped with a fresh egg that blended beautifully when mixed. The flavors were bold, savory, and had just the right amount of spice.

- **Shrimp Gambas in Olive Oil & Tomato (₱290)** – This seafood dish was a standout, featuring plump, juicy shrimp cooked in a rich garlic-infused olive oil and tomato sauce. It had a slight tanginess from the tomatoes that complemented the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

To complete our meal, we paired these dishes with **two servings of plain rice** and refreshing drinks:

- **Fresh Buko Shake (₱120)** – A creamy and naturally sweet coconut shake, perfect for cooling down on a hot afternoon.

- **Green Mango Shake (₱120)** – This drink had the right balance of sourness and sweetness, making it a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of our main dishes.

Ambiance & Service

The overall atmosphere of Moon Café was inviting. The restaurant is **spacious, clean, and has a laid-back vibe**, making it a great spot to enjoy a peaceful meal. The **staff were polite and attentive**, ensuring that we had everything we needed throughout our dining experience.

Moon Café at Ayala Center Cebu is a great choice for those craving **Mexican cuisine** with a Filipino twist. The food is flavorful, well-prepared, and reasonably priced for its quality. With **excellent service and a comfortable dining environment**, we highly recommend it for a casual lunch or dinner.

Planning to visit Ayala Center Cebu? Make sure to drop by Moon Café for a satisfying meal!

Have you dined at Moon Café before? Share your experience in the comments below!

Morning Yoga at Meili Beach Resort: A Serene Start to My Weekend in Alcoy, Cebu

Last weekend, I had the most refreshing and soul-soothing morning yoga session at the stunning white sand beach of Meili Beach Resort in Alcoy, Cebu. The calming waves, soft sea breeze, and warm golden sunrise made it an unforgettable experience. Practicing yoga by the ocean brings a different kind of energy—one that makes you feel grounded yet free at the same time.

Embracing the Morning Flow

Waking up early to catch the sunrise, I rolled out my yoga mat right on the soft, powdery sand. The rhythmic sound of the waves became my natural meditation guide as I moved through my flow—starting with gentle stretches, deep breathing, and gradually transitioning into sun salutations. The fresh sea air made every inhale feel rejuvenating, filling my lungs with positivity and peace.

Yoga and Swimwear: The Perfect Pair

For this yoga session, I wore my Osprey swimwear, which provided the perfect balance of comfort, flexibility, and support. I love how it allows me to transition effortlessly from yoga to swimming without needing a wardrobe change. Since the resort’s beachfront is so inviting, I took a quick dip in the ocean right after my practice—it was the perfect reward after a calming yet energizing session.

My Next Swimwear Pick

I’m already looking forward to my next yoga session by the beach, and I’ve been eyeing some new stylish yet functional swimwear to enhance my experience. If you’re also looking for comfortable and yoga-friendly swimwear, check out this collection on Shopee: Click here to shop my top picks!

Why You Should Try Beach Yoga

If you’ve never tried practicing yoga by the ocean, I highly recommend it. Here’s why:

Natural Elements Enhance Relaxation – The sound of the waves acts as a natural white noise, helping you enter a deeper state of meditation.
Soft Sand is Gentle on Joints – Unlike hard studio floors, the sand supports your body, making it easier on your knees and wrists.
Vitamin D Boost – Practicing outdoors allows you to soak up the morning sun’s natural Vitamin D, which is essential for overall well-being.
Seamless Transition to Swimming – Nothing beats the feeling of cooling off in the ocean right after an invigorating yoga session.

Plan Your Yoga Retreat in Alcoy

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, Meili Beach Resort in Alcoy is the perfect destination. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, this tranquil setting will make your practice even more rewarding. Bring your favorite yoga-friendly swimwear, embrace the beauty of nature, and let the waves guide you into a state of bliss.

Would you try morning yoga at the beach? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to check out my Shopee affiliate link for swimwear that’s both stylish and functional for your next yoga session by the sea: Shop now!