Sample 1

“Brewing Pride”: How Bahaghari Café is Creating a Safe Space for Manila’s LGBTQ+ Community

Manila may be large and lively, but dedicated safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community remain scarce. Despite the Philippines' reputation for being more open than some of its Southeast Asian neighbors, that sense of acceptance often proves to be only skin-deep. Queer individuals still encounter discrimination, judgment, and exclusion in everyday spaces, whether it's in bars, cafés, gyms, or co-working hubs. Very few venues are intentionally created with the LGBTQ+ community in mind, leaving many to navigate public life while constantly holding parts of themselves back.

That absence of truly inclusive spaces inspired business partners and real-life couple Cherry Villaluz and Erica Bautista to build something of their own. Both proud lesbians and long-time advocates for LGBTQ+ visibility, they decided to open Bahaghari Café, a cozy, vibrant coffee shop that proudly centers queer identity. “We just wanted a place where we didn’t have to pretend… A place where no one would stare at us for holding hands.”, Cherry shares.For them, it wasn’t just about serving good coffee. It was about creating a safe, joyful space where the LGBTQ+ community could gather without fear or filter. “It’s about giving people the freedom to be exactly who they are,” Erica adds. “Because we know what it feels like to have nowhere else to go.”

Still, like many bold ideas, Bahaghari Café struggled during its initial weeks. Despite the passion behind it, foot traffic was minimal, and the Bahaghari signage didn’t immediately draw in the expected crowd. “There were days we barely had five customers,” Erica admits. "We started to wonder if people were just too scared to be seen in a place so outwardly queer." But Erica didn’t give up. Leveraging her network, she reached out to LGBTQ+ influencers—people with massive followings who champion queer causes online. Within days, TikToks and Instagram posts were being shared, and word of mouth began to spread. Bahaghari Café went from a struggling startup to a buzzworthy hotspot for queer folk and curious allies alike.

Walking into Bahaghari Café now feels like stepping into a hug. The walls are painted in soft pastels, with vibrant Bahaghari murals stretching across the ceiling. Pride flags representing every letter of the LGBTQ+ spectrum flutter gently by the windows. But the best part? The menu. It’s playful, cheeky, and deeply rooted in the community’s unique sense of humor. You’ll find yourself giggling as you order a Chuva Mocha or a Cappuccino Kembot, with a side of Kineso Cake. The baristas, many of whom are members of the LGBTQ+ community themselves, bring not just great service but a sense of belonging. The space is Instagrammable, yes, but more than that, it’s intentional—every detail whispers, you’re safe here.

This Pride Month, Bahaghari Café is stepping it up even more. Every weekend, from 9 PM to midnight, the space transforms into a celebration of queer art and talent. Drag queens take the stage with jaw-dropping performances, while indie LGBTQ+ singers serenade the crowd with original songs and covers that hit differently under Bahaghari lights. “It’s not just entertainment. It’s about giving a platform to queer artists who rarely get booked in more mainstream venues.”, Cherry explains. The performances are loud, proud, and joyfully defiant, a reminder that queerness is not just an identity but a culture worth celebrating.

Yet despite its branding and mission, Bahaghari Café isn't a place that shuts people out—it invites them in. Straight customers, families, and allies are just as welcome, and many have become regulars. “Inclusivity is a two-way street,” Erica says. “Yes, this is a safe space for LGBTQ+ folks, but we also want allies to know they’re a part of the conversation too.” In a world where marginalized groups often feel pushed to the fringes, spaces like Bahaghari Café offer more than just coffee and cake. They provide community, healing, and a reminder that everyone deserves a seat at the table.

Bahaghari Café is located at 2431 Timog Street, Quezon City, right in the heart of one of Metro Manila’s most dynamic neighborhoods, open daily from 12 PM to 1 AM. Whether you're dropping by for a Chuva Mocha, catching a drag performance, or just looking for a safe spot to unwind, Bahaghari Café opens its doors and its heart to everyone.

Sample 2 

Urban Happy Homes: A Practical and Affordable Alternative to Condo Living

Owning a condominium unit in Metro Manila comes with a number of drawbacks, including high prices despite an oversupply in the market. Reports show that developers continue to build more vertical residences even as vacancy rates rise, especially in central business districts. In many cases, buyers pay a premium for compact units that offer limited ownership rights and rising association dues. These factors have made condominiums less practical for long-term investment or family living.

As a result, more buyers are turning to house-and-lot properties as a more practical investment choice. Urban Happy Homes is among the most promising residential developments in Metro Manila, offering a village-style community environment. Unlike the typical high-rise living setup, Urban Happy Homes gives residents space, privacy, and a greater sense of ownership.

Urban Happy Homes presents a cost-effective and strategic alternative to condominium investments. The properties are more affordable, often providing larger living spaces at a lower cost. Communities are strategically located near business districts and university areas, making them convenient for both professionals and students. Each community is master-planned to deliver comfort, accessibility, and long-term value for homeowners.

Another key benefit is the ease of payment. Buyers can own a house at Urban Happy Homes with a downpayment of as low as ₱200,000, and enjoy flexible financing terms for up to 15 years. The property may also be financed through the government’s Pag-IBIG Fund, providing a more accessible path to homeownership for Filipino buyers.

For pre-selling inquiries and site visits, interested buyers may contact 0917-896-0803 and look for Jessica Buenaobra, a direct agent of Urban Happy Homes.

Sample 3

University Pad Offers Affordable, Student-Focused Accommodation in Taft

With the start of the academic year approaching, students enrolled in universities along Taft, Manila are once again seeking temporary housing options. In response to this seasonal demand, a new dormitory-style condominium, University Pad, is being developed to cater specifically to student needs. Offering rental rates starting at ₱5,000 per month, the property presents an accessible and cost-efficient solution for university students looking for a practical place to stay near campus.

University Pad provides a competitively priced alternative to traditional condominium units in the area. Its location offers a strategic advantage, as it is within walking distance of major universities, significantly reducing transportation costs and commute times. The development features 24/7 security, ensuring a safe living environment for tenants. It also includes co-working spaces designed to support students in their academic work.

Beyond functional amenities, University Pad promotes a sense of community among its residents. Weekly rooftop gatherings are organized to encourage social interaction among tenants. These events are offered at no additional cost and serve as a platform for students to network, unwind, and form peer connections within a secure residential setting.

For details on available room types, pricing, and payment schemes, interested parties may contact Abigail Monsalesat 0961-786-5376, a direct agent for University Pad (Manila Tower).