#benguet coffee

[the-loiterers]

[shellwanders]

36 TOP BEST THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO THAT YOU NEED TO ADD TO YOUR TRAVEL ITINERARY

36 TOP BEST THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO THAT YOU NEED TO ADD TO YOUR TRAVEL ITINERARY

 Baguio is the  “Summer Capital of the Philippines” Baguio, on the Philippines’ Luzon island, is a mountain town of universities and resorts. Called the “City of Pines,” it’s particularly popular in summer due to unusually cooler weather. At its center is Burnham Park, with gardens and a lake. – Wikipedia Traveling to Baguio for the first time? This detailed and curated travel guide will make…

[ainnayp]

making my own latte at home

because buying from cafes is getting more expensive

and they’re not as good

[onenettvchannel]

#OneNETnewsEXCLUSIVE: Starbucks Reserve in Baguio City turns into Personal Office, infuriating customers with a Suspected Travel Vlogger individual from the UK (updated as final!!!)

(Written by Mitch Williams / Bailley Mass Communication news intern for OneNETnews)

BAGUIO CITY, BENGUET -- In an unpredictable twist at the Starbucks Reserve located on the 2nd floor of ShoeMart Baguio (SM) in Sunset Terraces, Luneta Hill, Upper Session Road, Baguio City, Benguet… The renowned coffee shop was surprisingly converted into an impromptu "Personal Office" for students and regular or repetitive customers, causing uproar among patrons, including a former Scottish poker player turned into a critical suspect travel vlogger named Dale Philip.

(SCREENGRAB COURTESY: Dale Philip via TikTok VIDEO / A Bengueteña Student inside a Starbucks Reserve sees a Male Foreign TikToker from the UK during the self-filming production in a rantful commentary.)

Netizens across the Philippines have expressed their frustration on various social media platforms over the extensive queues and the misuse of the said coffee shop space, particularly after a TikTok video (owned by ByteDance Limited) went viral on Sunday (November 5th, 2023), following the post-Undas or All Saints and Souls Day weekend. The actual extended video in a bite-sized form can be found uncut on YouTube, which was first filmed in late-August 2023. His self-footage highlighted the Starbucks location being fully occupied by a series of loitering "Digital Nomads", who were studying or working in Baguio City, leading to a chaotic environment and long waiting times for both regular or repetitive customers.

(PHOTO COURTESY for REPRESENTATION: Dale Philip via IG PHOTO)

Mr. Dale Philip, known for his background as a Scottish poker player and current travel vlogger from Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, found himself caught in the midst of the chaos, impatiently waiting to order his Matcha Frappuccino or Matcha Latte. The situation raised questions about the café culture, with customers feeling the space was being monopolized by individuals turning Starbucks Reserve into their personal workspace.

(FILE PHOTO COURTESY: Google Images and FB PHOTO)

The Starbucks Reserve concept is designed to offer a premium and immersive coffee experience, featuring rare and exquisite coffee blends. Located within SM Baguio, this particular Starbucks branch has become a go-to spot for coffee enthusiasts. However, the recent surge of "Digital Nomads" using the space as a makeshift office has tarnished the intended experience for either regular or repetitive customers.

"So they've got a Starbucks right here. Look at all these guys (in Baguio) with their own laptops just sitting, using it as their personal office. I would hate that! Somebody just doing their homework right there", as former professional poker player and suspected travel vlogger said.

He brazenly ranted that the Filipinos in Baguio City attacking netizens whether online or in person that he is losing concept for its disrepectful café culture: "Digital gonad is way worse that I can tell you. Just sit in your house, condo, or in your hotel room and do your work! Why do you need to be sitting in somebody's coffe shop to do your work with people disturbing to you? And look all these people coming in and out. I don’t understand this whole concept. I DON'T even like coffee, I only ever go to Starbucks for the Matcha Frappucino. But yeah, the whole concept of this coffee shop culture, I don't understand it at all…", Philip concluded in an extendedly viral TikTok commentary video via YouTube.

The issue has reached a national level, prompting concerns from government officials, including the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Education-Philippines (DepEd-PH). Calls for intervention to regulate the café culture of "Digital Nomads" at Starbucks Philippines have grown louder, emphasizing the need to maintain a balance between serving the needs of these remote workers and preserving the enjoyable atmosphere for all customers. We try to reach out to the DICT, DepEd-PH and the British Embassy of Manila via e-mail for comments on the matter to our news team of OneNETnews. However, as of this development of writing, there has been no response from any of these entities involved.

But PinoyTrend reports told in a disclosed ambush interview that the Starbucks Philippines' President (Noey Tantoco Lopez), it is legal to sit here at the Starbucks Reserve: “That was my first experience in Starbucks when I stayed for so long nursing one cup of coffee, and I was so amazed… So I don’t want to deny anybody that. That’s the Starbucks experience. Why would I deny that to anybody else? That was the magic I felt so to this day, we let people stay as long as they want. It’s part of our business”, Starbucks PH President Mr. Lopez said.

Mr. Lopez clarified that these customers in Baguio and the Province of Benguet had no time limits to stay at their coffee shops: “We strive to create a welcoming environment for all of our customers. We do not have any time limits for being in our stores, and we continue to focus on making the Third Place experience for every Starbucks customer”, he stated.

(STOCK PHOTO COURTESY: Google Images)

The potential impact on Dale Philip's status in the Philippines has also been a topic of discussion on social media. With the ire of ruefulness comments and possible mass cyber libel threats looming in hate speech and targeted public harassment online, there is speculation about whether he might face deportation back to the United Kingdom, as according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

As the online controversy intensifies, it remains to be seen how Starbucks Philippines and relevant government agencies will immediately address the concerns raised by customers in Baguio City and the whole province of Benguet, whether this incident will lead to a reassessment of café culture norms here in this country.

SCREENGRAB COURTESY: Dale Philip via TikTok VIDEO BACKGROUND PROVIDED BY: Tegna

EDITOR's NOTE (from Rhayniel): We fully updated with a statement via Starbucks Philippines' President named Mr. Noey Tantoco Lopez from a disclosed ambush interview obtained by PinoyTrend, as stated from the extended TikTok video via YouTube. A big shoutout to Mitch Williams for finalizing our exclusive news report.

SOURCE: *https://www.tiktok.com/@dalephilipvlogs/video/7297804049636773152 [Referenced TikTok VIDEO via DalePhilipVlogs] *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcWEmkXF4ik [Referenced EXTENDED TikTok VIDEO via DalePhilipVlogs] *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dale_Philip *https://www.facebook.com/100064847267945/posts/742816534556582 [Referenced FB News Article via Pinoy Publiko] *https://www.facebook.com/225073057924/posts/10159818951787925 [Referenced FB PHOTO via Starbucks PH] *https://www.starbucksreserve.com/en-us/about *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starbucks_Reserve *https://www.smsupermalls.com/mall-directory/tenants/smbg/STARBUCKS+RESERVE/ [Referenced Location Listings via SM Supermall website] *https://pinoytrend.net/2023/11/14/starbucks-philippines-sinagot-kung-bakit-hinahayaan-lang-nila-na-gawing-opisina-ang-kanilang-coffee-shop/ [Referenced News Article via PinoyTrend News Bureau] *https://starbucks.ph/about-us *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SM_City_Baguio *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_nomad *https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/digital-nomad [Referenced Editorial Article via Hubspot] *https://www.tiktok.com/@hampaslupangmadam/video/7300373231360314632 [Referenced TikTok VIDEO via HampasLupangMadam] *https://www.tiktok.com/@doraexploring/video/7300230818960510214 [Referenced TikTok VIDEO via DoraExploring] *https://www.tiktok.com/@n_i_c_k_o/video/7300416687990377733 [Referenced TikTok VIDEO via Nicko] *https://www.tiktok.com/@smnthdc/video/7300286998110031109 [Referenced TikTok VIDEO via SamanthaDC] *https://visasphilippines.com/philippine-immigration-black-list-order-what-you-need-to-know/ [Referenced Editorial Article via Visas PH News Bureau] *https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-manila *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Information_and_Communications_Technology and *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_Education_(Philippines)

-- OneNETnews Team

[rugged11th]

Kape ti Kalsada

Here's the concept.

Think of a café class served coffee, sip it on the roadside amongst the grass, trees, chirping birds and blowing wind. Do it standing, leaning on a tree or sitting on the pavement talking with fellow motorists having the same idea on what a coffee should be... then finally, add a bonfire when the sun sets.

That's the TOROGI KAPE experience located along the Longlong-Lamtang Road stretch in La Trinidad with GIDEON SHAKELEGEND as the original barista.

It was once a mobile coffee shop but with the accumulation of regular drinkers, it decided to build a permanent structure and include additional staff to accommodate a larger number of orders.

[thedalatribune]

© Paolo Dala

Kapetirya

Kapetirya Philippine Coffee is steadily becoming one of my favorite cafes in the country... I always try to get their Ube Truffle whenever I visit Baguio City.

[absoluteposts]

NEW & CHEAPEST #COFFEESHOP IN #BaguioCity Perfect to heal yourself from a #BrokenHeart LOCATION: Apugan, Santo Tomas, Baguio City Follow me on Instagram: Instagram.com/TheStoryofAnthony (c) @mich_cho @iamdwaejitokki #sabaguio #baguio #benguet #mountsantotomas #coffee #kapi #igorot #igorotak (at Cafe Kayman and Little Nibblers Fish Spa) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoWPkUmg4e9/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[obiancadenise]

Kafe Kultura PH: Celebrating Filipino Coffee and Culture

Located smack dab in the middle of the Philippines, Kafe Kultura PH is a bustling monument to the long and storied history of Filipino coffee and culture. Indulge in the tastes, stories, and traditions that make the Philippines special at this little coffee shop, which is much more than simply a location to get a cup of joe.

You'll feel the genuine warmth of Filipino hospitality the minute you walk through the doors of Kafe Kultura PH. The walls are covered with vibrant paintings that celebrate the culture and natural beauty of the island. Freshly brewed Philippine coffee wafts through the air as you snuggle into a comfortable nook, enticing your senses and beckoning you to indulge in the many tastes that the Philippines has to offer.

Kafe Kultura PH is dedicated to highlighting and supporting Philippine coffee farmers and roasters. Batangas barako, with its robust and earthy tastes, and Benguet arabica, with its smooth and aromatic undertones, are just two of the many Philippine coffee kinds included on the menu. Careful attention to detail throughout the brewing process brings out the coffee beans' individual flavors and aromas, creating a sensory voyage across the Philippines' many coffee growing areas.

Kafe Kultura PH celebrates not just the coffee, but also the diverse cultural heritage of the Philippines. It's a place where creativity and social interaction may flourish. Every visit to Kafe Kultura PH, where coffee and culture meet, is an engaging experience.

Therefore, Kafe Kultura PH is an absolute must-see for every cultural vulture or coffee aficionado. It's a great spot to relax with a cup of Philippine coffee, meet new people, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. Kafe Kultura PH is a real celebration of Filipino coffee and tradition; come and enjoy the hospitality, tastes, and tales it has to offer.

Facebook: Kafè Kultura Instagram: @kafekulturaph

Disclaimer: All pictures shown are mine and self photograph

[jezawitha-z]

Ngayon ko lang na realize na napaka busy pala talaga ng month of March for me (weekends), dayoff well spent talaga.

3/9-10 • Zambales

3/16 • Arayat (Kape Sinukuan, Mini hike)

3/17 • Coffee date with hs bff

3/23-24 • Benguet - Mt. Ulap hike

3/25 • approved VL, visited my prev colleague (Lupus warrior)

3/30-31 • Attended 7th bday (private resort)

As an introvert, di ko alam paano ko na gain tong enough energy to go outside and to also meet new people. It takes a lot of courage, tho introvert ppl loves to socialize naman talaga. It's just at the end of each day, naddrain ang social battery and need to have alone time sa sarili to recharge.

During weekdays, nakakapag OT pa or minsan ginusguto ko nalang mag OT TY kapag wala naman ako gagawin sa boarding house. Okaya kapag natatapos naman agad workloads, morning walks lang muna at abangan ang sunrise.

Dinadala ko nalang din sa work yung book na bet ko basahin para kapag lunch break or free time/bago umuwi. Literal na uuwi nalang ako sa boarding house to sleep. They know me as someone na taong bahay lang before at masaya kapag may naccancel na lakad. Pero ngayon, feel ko kasi the more na mag stay ako sa boarding house, parang ang lungkot lalo na wala naman yung immediate family ko dito na mapuntahan kahit weekends lang.

Hinahayaan ko parin naman sarili ko minsan na maging malungkot, pero konting breakdown lang tapos smile ulit, laban ulit. Ang dami paring dahilan para maging masaya. Masaya parin naman gawin yung mga bagay bagay kahit mag isa.

Looking forward for this month of April! Chill chill nalang muna siguro, will look for good cafés na may nature vibes parin.

[ultimate-guide-to-kapedefilipina]

The Ultimate Guide to Kape de Filipina: Experience the Best Coffee from the Philippines

Coffee lovers across Europe are constantly on the hunt for new flavors and unique stories behind every cup. Among the rising stars in the coffee world is the Philippines, an emerging gem that offers a variety of distinct coffees rich in heritage and flavor. Leading this revolution in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands is Kape de Filipina, a Berlin-based brand dedicated to bringing the finest Philippine coffee to European coffee enthusiasts. By celebrating the heritage and quality of Philippine beans, including the celebrated Barako, the term used by Filipinos to refer to Liberica coffee, Kape de Filipina is redefining how European coffee lovers experience and appreciate coffee from the Philippines.

A Brief History of Philippine Coffee: The Roots Behind Kape de Filipina

The story of coffee in the Philippines began in the 18th century when Spanish colonizers introduced coffee plants to the fertile lands of Batangas. Over time, coffee farming spread to other provinces like Benguet, Cavite, and Bukidnon, where the combination of rich soil, ideal altitude, and tropical climate helped shape the country’s unique coffee profiles. The Philippines soon became one of the world’s leading coffee producers, known for its robust and diverse varieties, including Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica. However, the industry faced setbacks in the 19th century, including pest infestations and economic challenges, which led to a significant decline in production.

Today, the coffee industry in the Philippines is experiencing a renaissance. Thanks to the dedication of local farmers and a growing global appreciation for unique coffee origins, Philippine coffee is gaining recognition for its rich flavors and distinct profiles. This resurgence is fueled by passionate growers who have returned to traditional farming methods while also embracing sustainable practices to ensure quality and environmental stewardship.

Kape de Filipina is at the heart of this coffee revival. Based in Berlin, the brand connects coffee lovers in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and the rest of Europe to the rich coffee heritage of the Philippines. By sourcing directly from Filipino farmers and cooperatives, Kape de Filipina not only brings authentic, high-quality coffee to Europe but also supports fair trade and ethical practices. Every cup you enjoy helps empower local farmers, preserve traditional farming methods, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Why Choose Kape de Filipina?

Kape de Filipina isn’t just about coffee; it’s about preserving traditions, supporting local farmers, and celebrating Filipino heritage. By focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing, the brand stands out in a crowded market, particularly in Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, where there is growing demand for high-quality, ethically produced coffee. Each bag of Kape de Filipina coffee tells the story of its origin—whether it’s the cool highlands of Benguet, the volcanic soils of Mt. Apo, or the sun-kissed fields of Batangas.

For more insights into Kape de Filipina’s journey and how it’s bringing Filipino pride to Europe, check out this feature on GMA.

Exploring the Unique Flavors of Kape de Filipina

Kape de Filipina offers an array of coffee that showcases the diverse flavors of the Philippines. Here’s a closer look at what sets our offerings apart:

Barako: The Rare Liberica BeanLiberica coffee, known in the Philippines as Barako, is distinct for its bold, full-bodied taste and unique aroma. Grown primarily in Batangas and Cavite, this coffee is characterized by flavors of dark chocolate, cacao nibs, and light notes of tropical fruits like jackfruit. It’s a rare find, making up less than 1% of global coffee production, and is a staple in many Filipino households. Kape de Filipina’s Liberica is perfect for those seeking a strong and exotic brew that stands out from typical Arabica or Robusta.

Arabica from the HighlandsSourced from the lush highlands of Benguet and Bukidnon Kape de Filipina’s Arabica beans are known for their smooth, balanced flavors. These beans have bright pleasant acidity, a rich body, and flavor notes ranging from milk chocolate and nuts to subtle floral hints. The processing methods used in these regions bring out the best characteristics of each bean, making them ideal for espresso, pour-over, or French press brewing.

Specialty Coffee from the Volcanic Soils of Mt. Apo and Mt. MatutumEvery Arabica bean from Kape de Filipina is specialty-grade, carefully chosen to showcase the best of the Philippines’ coffee-growing regions. The beans from the volcanic soils of Mt. Apo and Mt. Matutum stand out for their rich flavors, shaped by nature and skilled farmers. Think deep cocoa, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of ripe fruit. Each sip offers a taste of the lush, volcanic highlands, connecting you to the land where these exceptional beans are grown.

Brewing Tips: How to Enjoy Kape de Filipina Coffee

To truly appreciate Kape de Filipina’s unique flavors, it’s essential to brew it correctly. Here are some tips for making the perfect cup :

Espresso Lovers: Kape de Filipina’s Sayet and Mt. Matutum Arabica beans are ideal for espresso, delivering a rich, intense flavor with a strong aroma that espresso enthusiasts will appreciate. 

Pour-Over: For a smooth, balanced acidity and bright flavors, try the Bukidnon Arabica or the Liberica (Barako) beans. These varieties are perfect for pour-over methods, allowing their distinctive notes to shine through.

French Press: For a fuller, richer brew, use the Mt. Apo or Atok Arabica beans in a French press. This method will bring out their deep, chocolatey undertones and robust character.

Where to Buy Kape de Filipina

Ready to explore the best of Philippine coffee beans? Kape de Filipina’s range is available online, bringing a taste of the Philippines directly to coffee enthusiasts in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and across Europe. From the bold and earthy Liberica to the delicate and nuanced Benguet (Atok and Sayet) Arabica, there’s a coffee for every palate.

Discover more about Kape de Filipina’s commitment to quality and sustainable sourcing on the Kintal Creative Studio website, where each coffee tells the story of its origin and the hardworking farmers behind it. You can also check out our inspiring story and impact on the local coffee industry in this video.

Shop now and bring the rich flavors of the Philippines to your cup with Kape de Filipina!

[thehungrykat1]

The Peninsula Manila Offers Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea Featuring Benedicto "BenCab" Cabrera

After the very successful Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Afternoon Tea last month, The Peninsula Manila is giving its guests another great reason to visit The Lobby this month with its BenCab Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea. I have always loved hanging out at the lobby of The Peninsula Manila, whether it be to meet up with friends or to enjoy a fancy merienda, so I was really excited to try out their new art-themed afternoon tea.

As a continuation of Art in Resonance, the Peninsula Hotels' global program celebrating and nurturing contemporary art, The Peninsula Manila is pleased to present a medley of art activities this June, starting with an art exhibit titled Edition of 8. This features eight site-specific tapestries by Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts, Benedicto Cabrera, a.k.a. BenCab, from his acclaimed Larawan and Sabel works which guests can enjoy and appreciate for free at the ground floor of The Peninsula Manila.

The Lobby has been a favorite meeting place for foreign guests and local residents since the hotel opened in 1976, be it for corporate executives in a hurry or for friends on the lookout for a quiet spot and a pick-me-up high tea or cup of coffee while exchanging the latest news. A perennially popular meeting spot for high society, The Lobby's focal point of interest is the glorious 12-metre "Sunburst" created by Philippine National Artist for Sculpture, Napoleon Abueva, which is set against Hong Kong-based artist Paola Dindo's sky-colored silver leaf-lined dome.

Lending additional majesty to The Lobby are two grand staircases that sweep upward to the Makati and Ayala Towers. We had our church wedding reception right here at The Peninsula Manila with its gorgeous backdrops and very elegant interiors. The Lobby is also where the classic Peninsula Afternoon Tea has become Manila's favorite and a beloved attraction for visitors since the hotel opened, offering carefully selected premium teas complemented with appetizing scones, quiches, tea sandwiches and assorted pastries.

The hotel's contemporary art program Art in Resonance has turned the entire ground floor of The Peninsula Manila into an art gallery featuring the works of Benedicto Cabrera. Originally introduced in 2019, Art in Resonance offers Peninsula guests deeply immersive experiences that promote the rich and vibrant cultural aspects of the cities in which they reside. There's no need to go all the way to the BanCab Museum in Benguet since the exhibit will be on display at The Lobby from May 22 to July 21, 2024.

You can find some of BenCab's stunning tapestries right at the front desk reception area, giving its hotel guests a colorful and dazzling welcome.

The tapestries are based on Sabel, Ben Cab's acclaimed solitary figure of a scavenger emerging from a dark landscape, and on his Larawan paintings, inspired by turn-of-the-century Philippine photographs and borne out of his nostalgia for Filipino culture while living in London.

A fruit of the collaborative efforts between BenCab Abitare Internazionale, and Moooi Carpets, some of these tapestries are a recomposition of existing works. With the aid of digital technology and printed with high-definition precision on polyamide acrylic using a Chromojet printer, the colors, textures, volume, and tones of BenCab's work are captured in their most minute detail.

This collection of limited-edition carpets by Abitare Internazionale and Moooi Carpets continue their legacy of innovation and artistry which all guests at The Peninsula Manila can enjoy.

Aside from the exhibit, there are other Art in Resonance-related experiences scheduled for hotel guests this month, including the Art in Resonance Tours for suite guests and the Art in Resonance Talks with BenCab and noted Philippine historian Ambeth Ocampo. This will be held at The Conservatory on June 23, 2024 starting 3:00pm. BenCab will talk about his search for a Filipino identity and the social and cultural context behind his work. This will then be followed by an afternoon tea buffet at 4:00pm at The Upper Lobby.

As for myself, I'm here to enjoy the BenCab Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea which is available daily at The Lobby from 2:30pm to 5:00pm until June 23. This afternoon tea set is priced at P2,888 for two persons.

It comes with your choice of premium teas for two, but you can also upgrade the afternoon tea set to include two flutes of Champagne for P4,388.

Afternoon tea is an elegant pre-evening tête-à-tête popularized in Europe with its own history and traditional ceremonies. In Manila, The Peninsula Manila is one of the best places you can experience an afternoon tea, especially with the hotel's rich history and elegant setting.

Let's start our BenCab Afternoon Tea at the bottom layer which comes with Banana Bread, Homemade Raisin Scones and Plain Scones.

This is served with lemon curd, strawberry jam and clotted cream. Slice your scones in half horizontally and place the cream or jam on top, depending on your preference. You don't have to be intimidated by the history and traditions of the afternoon tea. Feel free to enjoy this dining experience your own way.

The middle tier comes with some savory items such as the Bagnet Sisig Quiche, Grilled Crab Salad and Cheddar on Rye Loaf.

Other sandwiches here include the Smoked Duck Brioche Roll, Pulled Pork Belly with Sriracha Mayo Sandwich, Mini Pan de Sal, and lastly the Egg and Avocado Bagel. These items are quite filling so two guests can easily share these delightful sandwiches.

The top plate consists of heavenly desserts to finish off your BenCab Afternoon Tea adventure. Here you can find the Chocolate Almond Friand, Amaretto Whipped Ganache, Blueberry White Chocolate Cheesecake, Strawberry Opera, Mango Tapioca Pudding, and Coffee Baileys Macarons printed with some of the works of BenCab.

We had such a relaxing time at The Lobby enjoying our delicious afternoon tea set surrounded by BenCab's gorgeous works. The BenCab Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea will be available at The Lobby only until June 23, 2024. Make sure to catch this unique limited-edition afternoon tea experience at The Peninsula Manila by reserving your tables at 8887-2888 or by emailing them at diningpmn@peninsula.com. See you at The Lobby!

BenCab Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea

The Lobby, The Peninsula Manila, Ayala Avenue corner and Makati Avenue, Makati City

8887-2888

www.peninsula.com/manila

www.facebook.com/ThePeninsulaManila

[the-loiterers]

[atamabs]

📍Atok, Benguet 240426

We went to Northern Blossom Flower Farm— na hindi ko alam if gugustuhin ko pa bang maulit kasi stressed na ko nung paakyat pa lang pa lang kami ng Baguio pero mas grabe stress level ko sa daan paakyat dito! Tho sulit naman sa view, talagang maganda yung flowers at lugar. Nakakapagod lang at nakakatakot.

Last 2 pic ay dun sa kinainan namin pagbaba sa Atok— Our Northern Coffee House. Grabe din ang view dyan, kitang kita mo yung mga bundok at talagang nasa tuktok ka. Masarap din yung food so talagang okay din.

Ito lang ang highlight ng araw na to. Umuwi din kami kaagad kasi may pasok pa yung isa naming kasama.

[jeannnieee]

Baguio Bites: A Flavourful Jaunt Through the Culinary Wonderland of the Summer Capital

Nestled in the cool embrace of the Cordillera Central mountains, Baguio City beckons with more than just panoramic views-it offers a culinary escapade that excites the taste buds. As the "Summer Capital of the Philippines," Baguio invites you on a detectable journey where every bite narrates a story of the mountains.

Begin your gastronomic adventure in La Trinidad, Benguet, at the strawberry farms. Whether you pluck them yourself or indulge in local treats like strawberry taho and ice cream, the sweet allure of freshly picked berries sets the tone for a berry delightful journey.

Dive into Baguio's unique shopping culture at Ukay-Ukay Shops. Amidst hunt for vintage fashion treasures, relish local street snacks, from corn on the cob to fish balls, turning your shopping spree into a flavorful exploration.

Explore the culinary delights lining Session Road, Baguio's bustling commercial hub. From traditional Filipino dishes to international flavors, the street is a culinary journey waiting to be savored in cozy cafes and vibrant eateries.

Immerse yourself in Cordilleran cuisine by seeking out local specialties like pinikpikan, etag, and pinuneg. These dishes offer a taste of the region's unique flavors and cultural heritage.

Visit Baguio Public Market for an authentic taste of local produce. Engage with vendors, sample indigenous snacks, and bring home bags filled with culinary treasures unique to this mountain city.

Indulge in Baguio's vibrant café culture with panoramic views. Sip on freshly brewed Benguet Coffee or enjoy a warm of strawberry champorado while soaking in the scenic beauty that surrounds you.

As the sub sets, join the locals at the Night Market for budget-friendly yet delicious street eats. From grilled skewers to local desserts, the Night Market is a bustling feast where flavors and aromas intermingle in the cool evening air.

Baguio City, with its cool climate and culinary wonders, invites you on a journey where every bite tells a story of the mountains. From farm-fresh strawberries to vibrant street eats, let Baguio be a feast for your senses, creating a symphony of flavors that linger long after you've left the Summer Capital behind. Bon appétit and happy travels!

[project-discipline-2024]

Tagaytay Escapade

We traveled to Tagaytay at night, and the cold breeze of the place embraced and welcomed us. I really enjoyed the night because of the weather and also because I was with Arcel.

Despite having dual jobs, we managed to have quality bonding time, strengthening our relationship. We passed by Andoks, which was remarkable on our last trip due to its affordability and delicious taste when we had nothing else to choose from.

The cold weather led us to Serin to find and buy a jacket, and we found one at Penshoppe. My girlfriend chose this one for me, and it suited me well. It's memorable because she chose it for me. Thank you, mahal.

Feeling hungry, we took the bus to Bulalo's Point Restaurant. However, I noticed that the place was not very accommodating, so we tried searching nearby since there were many restaurants to choose from. We attempted to go to E-ways Restaurant, but unfortunately, it was already closed. We ended up at Balinsasayaw, where we did not expect the food to become our favorite. The fried bangus and bulalo were really special, and we ate a lot. The taste of Tsokolate was remarkable to us. We loved it so much!

In the morning, we took a walk and enjoyed the sun. We went to Starbucks and had coffee there, trying to sunbathe and talk to each other about life scenarios. I really admire her idea of always putting God first in whatever you do and not being too proud of yourself because humble people receive good merits in life. She gave an example of her mother's situation, and I appreciate her for sharing this with me. I am reminded to be humble every day and always be grateful for what I am today.

On Sunday afternoon, we went to Gracis and met her Kadiwa friends. We explored the place, exchanged gifts, and enjoyed the activities there. My girlfriend and I tried fishing and ATV, which was a super cool experience as it was our first time together. Thank you for sharing this adventure and introducing me to these people in my life. After that, we went to church to fulfill our duties and had dinner. I'll never forget the restaurant on Bonifacio Drive because of the small serving of food but being super expensive. Never again. After dinner, we made fun of that restaurant. Hahaha, we felt like the craziest people in the world. Lol.

Tagaytay has always held a special place in my heart because this is where we started to strengthen our relationship and get to know each other. Our relationship has become strong, intimate, and peaceful. To Arcel, I always look forward to making memories with you in this place, having hot chocolate, and engaging in meaningful conversations.

Baguio Escapade

At 4 am on January 28, we went to Benguet with one of our closest friends, Joan and Jojo. My girlfriend and I were the ones who planned the trip, and unexpectedly, the couple wanted to join with us, so it became a double date now. Hahahaha. That was super cool, though. Thank you because the two have a car, and our travel to Benguet became easy. It took us a 4-hour drive to get there. We went to Camp John Hay to have breakfast and ended up at Pancake House. The cold weather was up to 14 degrees Celsius and tolerable at that time, but the weather got much colder in the evening, hahaha. After breakfast, we tried to go to Tsokolate de Batirol and experience their famous hot chocolate. A lot of people were there; however, when we tried the drink, the experience was not something amazing because the taste was like beer, lol. Nevertheless, we tried to finish it even though we did not like it much. Hahaha. Outside the restaurant, we experienced the cold breeze of the weather and appreciated the trees and breathing space there. I also loved how we used the camera brought by Ar. I was stunned by how we captured things and people. It felt like something special, to capture moments and make them live forever. How mesmerizing it was.

Benguet has been a place where Mother Nature heals everyone. The stunning mountains, the vegetables, the food, the weather, and the people – that's why I always want to be there and heal each wound that I experience in every war I face. The mountains and trees have been one of my friends whenever I feel tired because I know that God provided these amazing things to help His humans. I always love to connect to nature. With this, we went to Atok to explore the beauty of flower farms. There are lots of kinds of flowers there, and the place was too high to travel and too far from our place. Thank you to Jojo for driving us; he has really good driving skills, indeed! I appreciated the overlooking mountain and flowers. We also bought strawberries as pasalubong for ourselves, lol. We planned to make tanghulu; unfortunately, we did not have enough ingredients to make this. Sad. The whole trip was filled with relaxation and adventure. We went to ALAPO to experience camping at night and grilled enoki pork. The food was amazing, the bonfire was stunning, and the sunrise was a beautiful souvenir we could ever get from that place. I loved our photos there.

We experienced a lot of firsts in our first three days; however, we are not yet ready to make our trip fully on vacation. After Mondays, we're back to work. My girlfriend and I work two jobs, and I am happy to say that we managed it superbly! I was amazed at how my girlfriend worked because she managed it so well, and she did smart work – by focusing on certain hours, and the rest will be rest time. I was amazed by her. Most of the time, she did not work, but her productivity was remarkable, and she finished all her tasks. On the other side, I had to work hard because there were a lot of deadlines and tasks to finish and create pull requests on my plate. I did not want to lose this job since I needed more money, and ironically, because of the burden and weight on my head, on this day, I had planned to leave my second job – but this is all in my head. I just wanted to rant and express it because I cannot manage it anymore. Thank you to my girlfriend for being my sounding board and carrying the burdens in my heart. I wanted to quit at that time and submit my resignation, but I never did. Haha, I tried to convince myself to push harder and find a solution to that problem, and fast forward, the workload in the next month became manageable. Up to this date, I am still with the same company.

Joan and Jojo had to leave in the middle of the week because they said they could not bear the cold weather. My girlfriend and I were the ones who stayed in the Airbnb. We enjoyed each other's company, and I was grateful for her and thankful because she was one of a kind. She helped and comforted me when I struggled to communicate with others and assisted me with my internet connection during my interview with Nelnet. I loved every act she did for me. She cooks our food well, and I appreciate how she takes care of me every single minute. I feel genuine care and love from her. I could say that I am the luckiest man alive. hahaha.

I know most people might be thinking about two people in the same room and sleeping together, and of course, they may engage in premarital sex. However, we respect each other's decisions and adhere to the doctrines of our religion, which prohibit having sex without the blessing of our beloved parents until we are married. I am thankful that she is not like other girls who might seduce their man into having sex. I love how our relationship is going and how we respect each other. I would love to experience this type of bonding with you again soon! Therefore, I conclude that the whole vacation, walking around the city, and helping me when I felt bloated and my tummy hurt after eating on our last day there was wonderful. I don't have anything to say but thank you, Arcel, for giving me the kind of love that I am not sure if I deserve because you are more than enough for me. I love you, and I will take care of you and protect you at all costs, mahal ko.

Good News!

I got my Non-Professional Driver's License.

My girlfriend's Korean Tourist Visa was approved.

I decided to apply to the Korean Embassy for a Tourist Visa, and it was approved!

I applied for the Canadian Student Visa Pathway, and it was approved!

Arcel is now my neighbor, and we enjoy each other's company.

We got our homestay approved on Airbnb.

Better days are coming!

There are a lot of things to be grateful for. I am grateful for having all kinds of support from my family, friends, and girlfriend. I could not imagine a happy life without them. All I can say right now is thank you, God Father, for allowing these events to happen in my life. I know that you have a very good reason that we never know why all this happens. All I can say is to trust you and surrender all to you because, as a human, I cannot do anything without you. Since Day 1, I know you have never forgotten me and always stood by my side, watching me with every decision in my life. Thank you for your guidance and for allowing my faith to grow. I hope for better days ahead, and if struggles are coming my way, I know that you will help and guide me to conquer all of them. Better days are coming! I manifest and pray that Arcel will have an employer in Alberta, Canada, particularly in Calgary by 2025, so she can leave the country to start her 30s. I know God has a plan for each and every one of us, and serving God is one of our purposes. I manifest that from this very day, we will come back to this blog and say that we are meant for Canada, and we will live there and build our own family.

In the upcoming days, I want to make sure to be more disciplined in each aspect of life. Thank you for bringing Arcel into my life because she has guided me to become a better person, and we align with each other to be the best versions of ourselves.

Here are the plans I want to fulfill in the following weeks:

Eat less, move more, eat more proteins, and engage in strength training.

Lose body fat and build muscle.

Improve my spiritual connection and faith with God Father by doing Panata.

Wake up at 6 am and do the routines with my girlfriend.

Read one book per month.

Write a blog consistently.

Socialize with family and friends to boost oxytocin and happy hormones – as humans, we build connections with others.

Travel in nature once in a while.

I hope these activities will strengthen my personal well-being and relationships with others, and I am looking forward to seeing progress little by little.  Super excited for our next trip! See you soon, South Korea!

[rugged11th]

Kape time is...

when you drop everything-whatever it is you're doing or thinking, not just to sip but to dedicate the moment for yourself.

It's very addicting...

just like these damn cigarettes

Baddarong!