Events, Featured Community, Speaking Engagements

Guest Speaker at National Coffee Research, Development and Extension Center – Philippines

“In time for Women’s Month, the second podcast episode featured a content creator and a community journalist, Ms. Janella Herrera (Yourtitaja). While the first episode focuses on the labor before it reaches the cup, the second episode talks about the role of coffee as more than a mere beverage in social constructs. As a content creator who spotlights local and underrated coffee shops, Herrera immersed the conversation with stories of entrepreneurs and some members of the marginalized sector joining in the transformative journey that builds coffee communities from the ground up. Highlighting her role as an ambassador of the Kwentong TechTrans of the Banyuhay Project, she has visited several farming communities where she witnessed firsthand the evolution of coffee from being a constant companion to being a catalyst in creating positive changes and serving as an avenue for channeling these changes to the target stakeholders. She considered coffee not just a commodity, but a cup filled with stories and struggles it faces. One example she mentioned was that young people in the farming communities they encountered are more enticed to work in corporate jobs and less likely to continue their family farms. Though this challenges the coffee industry in one way, this creates awareness of the hard work expressed in producing coffee. Further, her exposure to coffee farming communities also allowed her to realize the diversity in coffee culture. Though each location showcases unique systems of production and processes, coffee has been a channel for empowering a certain sector in the community, such as women. “The coffee industry is no longer a boys’ club.” As articulated during the episode, she emphasized that the modern coffee culture portrays a collaborative work of all genders, wherein the need for women in coffee farming, post-harvest, and marketing is now highly regarded. It is also revolutionizing to recognize the fair share of labor in this once male-dominated industry.” – National Coffee Research, Development and Extension Center – Philippines

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Events, Featured Community, Speaking Engagements

Guest Speaker at Press N’ Brew: Crafting Narratives towards Journalism Excellence Lecture Series

College Jaja would never believe I did this! I was invited to the Press N’ Brew: Crafting Narratives towards Journalism Excellence Lecture Series to share my stories as a Social Media Influencer. Being someone who creates content online, I’ve always wanted to do something beyond building my social media presence and traveling for coffee. For some time, I kept on repeating to myself that my passion for what I do will be seen if I just trust the process. The delulu that I am, I knew it would happen! BUT I never expected to be trusted by my former professors at Cavite State University to take the floor and share my expertise in the social media industry. This, my pamangkins, is one of my ‘I-made-it’ moments and l couldn’t be more thankful for all of you. AGAIN — Salamat po, Department of Communication CAS Cavite State University and Kwentong TechTrans in Luzon: Banyuhay. I’d also like to extend my gratitude to the talented, hardworking students behind the CvSU Journalism Guild, The Gazette-CvSU Main Campus, and DZSU Radyo Kabitenyo. Thank you for the good coffee, Science Café by Café Severino. I highly recommend the Mug Shot! TO MY READERS, OMGGGGGG???????? Let’s continue supporting the Press N’ Brew Lecture Series this month, marami pa pong alumni creatives, journalists, and professionals ang invited to talk about their experiences and passion for their crafts. Here’s to more cups of coffee!! Nagkakape, Ja

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Events, Featured Community, Speaking Engagements

Board of Judges at Science Month 2024, Sacred Heart School of Cavite, Inc – Recoletos de Alfonso

Judge for this year’s celebration of Science Month at Sacred Heart School of Cavite, Inc – Recoletos de Alfonso. Despite feeling unwell on that day, it served as a reminder for me to persevere no matter what. It was inspiring to see children coming together to cheer and perform with all their hearts; reminding me of the same intensity of passion I had when I was still in school. Even more, witnessing the dedication of our educators to the success of the event was moving, as always — saludo po ako sainyo! This is to express my heartfelt gratitude to my alma mater for having me once again. Being part of this community is something I genuinely treasure, salamat pooooo. Sacred Heart School of Cavite, Inc

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Events, Featured Community, Speaking Engagements

Board of Judges at Sacred Heart School of Cavite, Inc – Recoletos de Alfonso 2023

When I was in high school, I thought I’d have it all figured out before turning 25 years old. We’ll… I haven’t. And it’s okay!  I don’t have to rush things. Because success is not defined by the things I am not. My success is who I am today.  I went to my alma mater yesterday as a member in the panel of judges at their Science Week. It felt rewarding to be invited and reunited with the teachers that I looked up to in high school.  Yes, it was a good experience but what surprised me more was that the students’ works and performances inspired me to keep doing better. There were grade school students who memorized paragraphs to impersonate scientists. While watching, you can see the terror in their eyes before they speak, but they kept going anyway. The children owned each part of their works and left priceless, proud expressions after finishing their speech.  I thought… If 7-year-olds can push boundaries… And do something that seemed impossible, Why can’t I? At times when I’ll doubt myself ever again, these kids will remind me of how much I can do with courage if I’d only believe in myself more.  Sacred Heart School of Cavite, Inc – Recoletos de Alfonso

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Blog, Speaking Engagements

How I Partnered with 500+ Brands as an Influencer Before Turning 25

Becoming a content creator and partnering with over 500 brands before turning 25 wasn’t something that happened overnight. It was a journey of persistence, rejection, and learning how to turn my passion into a career. From getting my first-ever gifted collaboration to working with government-backed projects, my influencer journey has been about more than just numbers—it’s about impact. If you’re dreaming of working with brands but don’t know where to start, here’s my story and what I learned along the way. 1. My First Brand Deal & The Feeling of “Making It” I still remember my first collaboration—it was with a skincare brand that sent me three items for review. It wasn’t paid, but it didn’t matter. After pitching brands for so long and creating content without expecting anything in return, seeing that email made me want to cry. It was the validation I needed that my efforts were finally being recognized. Lesson: You don’t need a massive following to start. You just need consistency, passion, and the courage to put yourself out there. 2. From Cold Pitches to Big Opportunities When I was starting out, I sent over 50 pitches and got just one response. Rejection was normal, and honestly, it was discouraging. But I didn’t stop. I kept refining my pitch, improving my content, and showing up every day. Fast forward a few years, one of my most unforgettable collaborations was with Cavite State University and DOST PCAARRD for Kwentong TechTrans. As an ambassador, I got to travel across Luzon, covering stories from different communities. That moment made me realize that being an influencer is more than just promoting brands—it’s about storytelling and creating meaningful content that goes beyond myself. Lesson: Rejections are part of the process. Keep improving, keep showing up, and eventually, the right opportunities will come. 3. Building a Brand That Attracts Brands One thing I’ve learned in the past few years? Set yourself as the standard. Instead of chasing trends, I built my personal brand around who I truly am. I showed up as myself, whether in coffee content, lifestyle posts, or brand collaborations. That authenticity made brands trust me because they saw me as more than just an influencer—I was a storyteller, a community builder, and someone who genuinely loved what I shared. Lesson: You don’t have to fit into an industry mold. Being you is your biggest selling point. 4. The Secret to Landing More Brand Deals So how did I go from one brand deal to 500+? Lesson: Treat every brand deal like an opportunity to prove yourself. The better your work, the more brands will want to work with you. 5. If You Want to Be an Influencer, Start Today If I could give one piece of advice to new creators, it’s this: Start today. You don’t need fancy equipment, a huge following, or a perfect feed. You just need to start. The best influencers aren’t the ones who waited until they were “ready”—they’re the ones who took action despite the uncertainty. Lesson: Stop overthinking and start creating. The first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the most important. Final Thoughts My journey to 500+ brand collaborations wasn’t just about free products or paid deals—it was about learning, growing, and proving to myself that I could do this. SO PLS PLS PLS REMEMBER THAT whether you’re just starting or already creating content, remember: opportunities come to those who show up consistently. Your dream brand collaboration? It’s waiting for you. But first, you have to take that leap. 🚀

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Events

The Koolpals Goes to Tagaytay for Comedy, Coffee, and Chaos

For our post-Valentine’s celebration, my boyfriend Zeus and I spent the evening at The Koolpals’ comedy show at Kapeña Pastries and Brews in Mendez, Cavite. Held on February 15 at 8 PM, the show brought together local fans for a night of stand-up and podcast-style banter. If you don’t know The Koolpals yet, they started as a podcast back in 2019. Here’s how it went according to their website: Isang araw, naisipan ni James na gumawa ng podcast at kinausap nya si GB at Nonong. Ilang buwan ang lumipas, bumili si James sa Raon ng mga gamit para sa recording. May 9, 2019, nagsimula ang unang episode recording sa kwarto ni GB. Nagluto ng spicy hotdog si Nonong, binuksan ni GB ang San Mig Gin Premium, at pinindot ni James ang record. At dito nagsimula ang The KoolPals! Since then, they’ve grown into one of the most-loved comedy groups in the country and one of the leading comedy podcasts on Spotify Philippines. Their humor? Brutally honest, borderline offensive, but ridiculously funny. They throw in out-of-box jokes, roast the audience, and say things most people wouldn’t dare. But somehow, they make it work. No one in the crowd took things seriously. Instead, we were all in tears laughing, completely in on the joke. Kapeña was the perfect spot for it. They have an indoor event space, which worked out well because it rained before the event. But honestly, I would’ve loved to see the show in their al fresco area too. The crowd was amazing. Mostly local fans who knew what they were signing up for—unfiltered jokes, hilarious crowd interactions, and that signature Koolpals energy. Now, I love a good laugh, but I had never been to a live comedy show before. If not a life-changing, this was an ultimate groundbreaking experience. Hahahahahaha! And Roger’s segment? JUSKO!!!! His delivery, his punchlines— GRABE everything just hit. Literal na iyak-tawa talaga. I didn’t expect to enjoy it this much, but guess who’s a Koolpals fan in the making now? 🙋‍♀️ The openers were just as impressive. It’s crazy how comedians can turn the most random stories into something so funny. And the best part? They do it effortlessly, just by being themselves. After the show, there was a photo op, and everyone just jumped in. If you missed this one, don’t worry. The Koolpals are still on tour, so check their website for updates. Seriously, go watch them. Nothing beats a night filled with good coffee, great company, and non-stop laughter.

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Featured Blog, Food

The Great Garlic Roast by Kenny Rogers Roasters is finally back!

If you love anything garlic, you might just have found the roast of your dreams with Kenny Rogers The Great Garlic Roast and Burger Steak! Enjoy this award-winning roast for a limited time starting at only 320 pesos. WHAT TO ORDER? Are you an OG Roast lover? Try the 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼 𝗕! It comes with quarter roasted chicken, The Great Garlic sauce, topped with roasted garlic cloves, choices of 2 side dishes, rice, and muffin. You can also go for 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗸! It’s loaded with a juicy 1/3 beef patty, topped with The Great Garlic Sauce, roasted garlic cloves, 2 sides, rice, and muffin. Dining in groups? Order the The Garlic Roast Group Meal. Share the garlic love with 1 whole The Great Garlic roasted Chicken, 4 side dishes, garlic sauce, 4 muffins, 4 cups of rice, and 1.5L soda. WHAT TO EXPECT? 🔥 Perfectly Marinated Chicken – Soaked in Kenny Rogers Roasters’ signature garlic blend, each bite bursts with deep, savory flavors that linger deliciously. 🧄 Toppings That Steal the Show – Crispy fried garlic and roasted cloves add a satisfying crunch, finished with a drizzle of aromatic olive oil for an extra layer of flavor. 🌟 Signature Garlic Sauce – A rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together for a truly indulgent experience. 🍽 For Sharing or Solo Cravings – Gather your loved ones with good food to treat yourself to a flavorful solo! Personally, I liked the roast so much! For the side dish, I highly recommend the Creamed Spinach — one of their newest additions to their side dish menu. It’s sooo goooooood. If you love garlic, this is the best pick for you. Available in ALL Kenny Rogers Roasters stores nationwide for a LIMITED TIME ONLY! WHERE TO ORDER? Website: kennyrogersdelivery.com.ph Phone: 8-555-9000 For delivery: GrabFood and FoodPanda

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Coffee, Community News, Featured Blog

ADORE CAFE: Barn-themed Coffee Shop in Alfonso, Cavite

Recently, I came across a uniquely-themed coffee shop in our hometown serving something new that would uplift the Pinoy culture and leave a warm memory of the cafe experience. In a small barangay in Alfonso, Cavite proudly stands Adore Cafe, a barn-themed coffee spot you would love! I have to admit that sometimes, I get tired of eating and reviewing the same food selections from different coffee shops (huhuhu) so I am genuinely happy to share that I tried Adore Cafe’s unique take on food and drinks in Upli, Alfonso, Cavite. Minimalist coffee shops may be a kind of thing in this generation being raised with fads and trends, but this cafe proves that there are still “personality” businesses or brands that come from a place of a unique identity or inspiration. Adore Cafe started as a dream that my partner and I shared three years ago, long before we moved to Alfonso. Our love for coffee and our desire to create a cozy, welcoming space for not just our family inspired us to bring this vision to life. Naming the cafe after my late mother made it even more special—to us, it was not just a business but a tribute to love, memories, and warmth. We envisioned a place where coffee served as an instrument to bring people together so that they could slow down and create moments to cherish. – Adore Cafe Team WHAT WE TRIED Adore Special – This is espresso, milk, and their special salted top foam. So good! I prefer to let it sit first as the ice melts but it’s nice. Coffee beans are Brazil, Arabica-Robusta. Adore Cafe is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where you can enjoy good food and drinks as if you are at home. Here, you can relax in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere and take in the beautiful Tagaytay weather with handcrafted coffee and meals made with love. We’re not about mass-produced flavors—we put real effort and care into every cup and dish, ensuring quality without the burden of a high price tag. – Adore Cafe Team Tuyo Pasta – Bold, smoky, and packed with umami—like garlic oil pasta with a salty Pinoy kick. Highly recommended if you’re looking for something new to try. Tinapa Pasta – Milder and creamier but still smoky, with a rich, buttery flavor that melts into every bite. Best pick for those who have adventurous preferences. Lovette!!!! Finally, in June last year, we got around to making our dream a reality; one second we were setting up furniture and equipment and before we knew it, we were serving the tables of our families, friends, and most importantly, our customers. Until now, we have never looked at our cafe as a medium of profit—more so, it was a place that we shared with guests, welcoming them with extraordinary coffee and a space that felt like home. – Adore Cafe Team All in all, my ADORE CAFE experience has been so memorable! We had small, fun, and informative conversations with the barista during our meals and the ambiance just felt homey. Alfonso, Cavite has a lot more to offer when it comes to food and delicacies and this would make a great place for you to try something new along with coffee. Coffee is more than just a drink for us—it’s a lifestyle! We have always been fascinated by how small sips of coffee can spark conversations and bring moments of peace to brighten our days. We were so passionate about the craft of coffee-making that my partner and I sourced countless times for the best beans to ensure that what we were offering to our customers was only made of high-quality ingredients. Our love for it even expanded by adding other things to our menu, such as comforting pasta dishes, hearty rice meals, and delightful pastries. We wanted to make sure that there was something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re here for a cup of coffee or tea, a sweet treat, or a filling meal! – Adore Cafe Team While I’m not having coffee as much as I used to in my previous blogs, my love for the culture and community remains the same. Supporting local businesses is my way to amplify small stories, make them heard online, and become a catalyst for change and inspiration. In this article, I hope you feel inspired to visit more impactful brands and share how proud you are to be part of their journey. Have fun at Adore Cafe! To our fur moms and fur dads, we are also pet-friendly! We love seeing our guests bring their furry friends along to share the experience as we also have some of our own. From the bottom of our hearts, we Adore you! WHERE TO FIND THEM? Pin: Adore Cafe Address: Sitio Hawilian Uno, Brgy. Upli, Alfonso, Cavite

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Coffee, Community News, Featured Blog

Caca Cat Café: The first-ever Cat Coffee Shop in Alfonso, Cavite

Newly opened Cat Cafè in Alfonso, Cavite? You’re reading that right! 😻 If you’ve visited our hometown before, I’m sure you heard of the rise of thriving coffee shops at the hidden gem of the south. As someone who’s always on the hunt for local hangout spots, here’s a new one to add to your long list of ‘to-visits.’ I was also surprised when I discovered Caca Cat Café here in Alfonso, Cavite, serving coffee, cheesecakes, tea, and snacks. Gusto ko sana silang i-gatekeep kasi kawawa naman yung cats kapag overstimulated sa crowd but it would also be nice to support this local coffee shop and for you guys to of course, meet their babies. Back in 2024, my partner was planning to start a traditional café business. However, a year earlier, we received an unexpected gift from a friend who was preparing to move abroad. To our surprise, the gift turned out to be two adorable and sweet cats named Whisky and Pablo. Caring for them quickly became a joy, and we wanted to ensure they were always happy and well looked after. That’s when inspiration struck. we decided to combine the two things we love most. I’ve always had a deep love for cats, and my partner has an undeniable passion for coffee. And so, the idea for our cat café was born, a space where our two worlds come together to create something truly special. – Jes and Ram, owners of Caca Cat Cafè When asked about their love for cats, Since I was a little girl (about 7 years old) , I’ve always been drawn to cats. There’s something magical about them that’s hard to put into words. Just touching their soft fur brings an instant sense of calm and happiness, as if they carry a unique kind of warmth that soothes the soul. Their sweetness, their adorable faces, and their innocent nature make them impossible not to love. Whether they’re purring quietly by your side or playfully chasing a toy, cats have a way of making every moment feel lighter and more joyful. My love for them has only grown over the years, and now I find so much joy in sharing that love with others through our café. WHAT WE TRIED: Goldrush Latte (₱175) – Yum! This is for you if you’re up for a mocha-flavored caffeinated drink. Subtle kape, strong chocolate. Sugarwood Latte (₱175) – Love maple and cinnamon combo? Me toooo so I ordered this signature drink from the menu. Well-balanced, sana makatulog ako tonight. Hahahahaha! Meat Lovers Pizza Toasts (₱235) – Got this as our snack and nagustuhan namin yung flavors because it tasted like home. If you’re looking for a unique way to de-stress, visit our café and enjoy what we like to call ‘kitty therapy.’ It’s the perfect escape to unwind and recharge. Caca Cat Café is here to provide / create a warm and homey atmosphere with cozy, wood-inspired vibes, where our adorable cuddle cats are the heart of the experience. – Jes and Ram WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: The best time to visit is around 4PM for the sunset photos + vvvvv good lighting inside the cafe. Lastly as much as we want you to enjoy every moment with our furry friends, we kindly ask all customers to follow our cat café rules. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of our cats and to create a safe, relaxing environment for everyone. Thank you for your understanding and for helping us keep our space a happy haven for both people and cats! – Jes and Ram WHERE TO FIND THEM? Pin: Caca Cat Cafe Addresss: 202 Amuyong Road, 2nd floor of Maku’s Ramen

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