Top (hot)dog

She started as a viral sensation.

Neneng's hotdog became a by-word because of TikTok.

She had this small table below Carriedo station, and she would sell her signature "hotdog overload." It was a hotdog sandwich that was literally overloaded with toppings. It was a good value product that gained traction on line, and IRL.

And it looks like that traction continued, because she now has this stall in front of Isetann Recto.

It's so gratifying to see success stories like these.

One for the (Pala)books

Had time in between classes, so it was the opportune time to hie off to Quiapo and try all the food items that's been appearing on-line.

Actually, there was only 1 thing on my agenda, and that's the palabok.

Went to Quinta Market and saw the cluster that sold this iconic Pinoy noodle dish. The brand that usually trend on-line are Pastora's and Jolli Dada. Saw both, but eventually went with the one closer to the entrance.

Yup, it was Jolli Dada. Yes, there was a line, but it was manageable. Plus, they gave me a seat instantly, and that was a big plus. Also, their palabok was available instantly!

Overall, the palabok was good. Very flavourful. Has the right balance of flavours and textures. And for the price, it was value for money.

Was it worth the trip? It was okay. Off-hand, I'd still go for Little Quiapo's palabok.

But still, I'm glad to have had this experience.

Full house!

Quiapo Church is definitely one of the busiest churches in the country.

Before this whole CQ situation happened, there are thousands of people who hear mass at Quiapo Church everyday. And when the Traslacion comes, that grows to millions of devotees who go to church and attend the procession.

Tonight, I decided to hear online anticipated Simbang Gabi at Quiapo Church. And whoa! The crowd online is just as huge as the crowd that used to go there when it was still allowed.

Imagine, almost 10K people were attending the mass online! I've been attending online masses at different churches and this is the first time I've seen these many people tuned in to one mass.

It's a testament to the popularity of Quiapo Church. Both online and in reality.

The devotion begins

On my way back home from Divisoria, I noticed that the traffic back was heavy, and that jeeps were dropping people a few streets away where they would usually do.

Then I found out that tomorrow was the start of the Traslacion, and people were already beginning the trek to Quiapo.

Such devotion is admirable indeed.