A month ago, I came back from my birthday trip in Siargao and Manila. I feel rejuvenated staying in the Philippines for a week. Although my ideal tita vacation is very simple and domesticated (such as locking myself in my pad, grocery shopping at SM Hypermarket, and getting a full body massage at Nuat Thai), I haven’t done anything to pamper myself.

Magpupungko Beach, Pilar, Siargao

I’m currently at NAIA Terminal 1, waiting for my flight back to Singapore. Since my move to The Lion City in June, I’ve been home thrice and the time spent there is always never enough. I know OFWs who live farther miss home so much more than I do – but in reality, I still do. Even if the flight time takes only 3-4 hours, I still get enthusiastic thinking about going home, seeing family, friends, and familiar faces, and lying in my own bed!

Chicken Afritada is one of the staple dishes in the Philippines. Paired with rice, the dish is commonly cooked and served at home. With simple ingredients such as potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, bell pepper, and chicken, anyone can make this dish easily in one pot or pan.