VjAndep Pastel

Pastel is a Filipino Delicacy originated locally in Camiguin Island which was introduced by VjAndep. I was in great awe when I saw that VjAndep occupied the big building somewhere in Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City. It was my first visit in three years and my city has grown in unbelievable progress.I bought few delicacies which I miss while living abroad and that includes pastel, hopia, polvoron and more. The original Pastel that I like is made up of bun with "yema" filling. To my surprise, they now have 12 varieties of Pastel: .This is indeed a success story of an entrepreneur Eleanor Popera Jose who commercialized Pastel on the 8th of January in 1990. VjAndep stands for Virgelio Jose and Eleanor Popera so when you read the name the sound of "j" is silent thus, making it Vandep.
Now, I know how they got that name huh! Anyway, here are the pictures of the store that they have in Bulua.
I hope their business will be bless more with success and a long lasting enthusiasm to create more Filipino delicacy to satisfy the cravings of everyone!

Camiguin and Pastel

This picture is the White Island in Camiguin which is located in Northern Mindanao in the Philippines. Camiguin is a booming tourist destination in the Philippines. Photo courtesy from skyscrapercity.com

If you love crowd, visit Camiguin Island during Lanzones Festival. It is usually done during the middle of October every year. My cousin sent me a postcard showing lanzones in it and I was so delighted. During the Holy Week, thousands of visitors walk around the 64 km-circumferential highway as a form of sacrifice in fulfillment of a vow. It is a religious event which attracts the visitors nationwide and from other countries. The place is a good retreat to be closer with family and appreciate nature. Blue water, fresh sea foods and when you return home, take Pastel with you for snacking. My friend Eleanor sent me this picture and I missed it right away. We are just lucky that the bakery Vjandep is in Cagayan de Oro City too. This delicacy is famous in Camiguin and visitors take advantage of buying it as "pasalubong" for families

photo courtesy:DAVE RYAN

Camiguin is my summer destination since childhood. I have a whole clan living in Mahinog, Camiguin Province, and I love the beach and the fruit crops in this place. I am just having a nostalgic moment over Camiguin which this Pastel came from. I miss this food.