angel's blog

By Angel Janel Baluntang

Food is one way people can connect. It stuffs our bellies, it fills our hearts, and above all, it unites people. There is nothing that can rival my love for food more than anything else. I always thought food was something that does not merely sustain us—it It is more than a thing that stuffs our bellies, it fills our hearts,. Any food in itself really brings individuals together. Nothing beats my love for food more than anything else. Since studying at Cebu Technological University (CTU)—Moalboal Campus for more than a year now, food has become part of my everyday life as a student. From quick snacks between classes to late afternoon meals with friends, I’ve come across plenty of food hubs inside and outside the campus that not only serve good food but also good memories.

One thing I’ve learned as a student here is that food can really change your mood. After a tiring class or a stressful exam, nothing feels better than sitting down at a carinderia and enjoying a simple plate of rice with fried chicken or adobo. These small food stalls may not look fancy, but they serve meals that taste like home. The smell of hot, freshly cooked dishes fills the air, and it reminds me of comfort even when I’m far from my family. It’s affordable too, which is a big deal for students like me who need to budget carefully.
But eating is not solely about food—it’s about togetherness.I’ve spent many afternoons socializing with peers in local cafés, splitting fries or cold coffee and discussing our challenges at school. Sometimes we laugh to the point of forgetting about deadlines and projects. Other times we discuss serious issues, and we find ourselves giving each other advice. All these experiences occur while breaking bread together, making them even more memorable. When I think about my favorite restaurants to eat at around campus, I don’t think about the taste so much as the people I was with, the jokes we cracked, and the enjoyment we had

There are even moments when food becomes therapy. College life isn’t always easy, and stress is something that all students must endure. For me, taking a bowl of halo-halo on a scorching afternoon or snacked barbecue sticks with friends after school can instantly make me feel better. It’s great how something as simple as that can bring comfort during worse times. Those little food breaks help me remember to slow down, inhale deeply, and catch up.

Studying in Moalboal also gave me the chance to discover more about Cebuano food and culture. Since the town is close to the sea, seafood dishes are fresh and flavorful. Street foods like tempura and kwek-kwek are also everywhere, and they have become my go-to snacks when I’m in a rush. Trying these foods made me realize that eating is also a way of experiencing local life.It’s not all about the flavor—it’s about knowing and respecting the people I belong to.

Reflecting on my first year in CTU-Moalboal, I can confidently say that food has been a significant part of my experience. It’s not only about getting through long study sessions, but also about building connections and memories. Food has been a companion to me throughout moments of joy, anxiety, and discovery. It has given me energy, comfort, and camaraderie.

Food to me will never be just food. It satisfies the stomach, sure, but it also satisfies the heart with happiness and the mind with memories to last a lifetime. With me pursuing my studies here, I am sure food will be among the things that make college life brighter and richer for me. For after all, the memories are best created when shared over a good meal.