No one could have guessed that a new coffee shop was among the Manila city government’s roster of projects.
Photos of the two-story, airconditioned establishment near the Kartilya ng Katipunan immediately went viral after Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso shared them on Facebook.
The Manila mayor said the coffee shop would be one of the newest attractions in the country’s capital that people could visit after the pandemic.
Before it is officially opened, below is a list of things to know about the capital city’s new coffee shop.
1. It will be named “KapeTolyo.”
Earlier, Domagoso asked Filipinos online to help them come up with a name for the newly built coffee shop. Poking fun, he said he was leaning toward the name “Café Pindot.”
Recently, the city government announced that it settled for the name “KapeTolyo,” a play on the words kape (coffee) and kapitolyo (capital).
2. It will put local coffee in the spotlight.
In a statement, the Manila Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) said KapeTolyo will feature coffee produced in the Philippines. "With our city being the melting pot of culture in the country, our coffee shop offers the same experience by having various types of coffee and delicacies throughout the country," it wrote.
3. Its products will be affordable
Domagoso was firm that he wanted everyone–regardless of socioeconomic status—to be able to visit the coffee shop. “Malapit na ang ating coffee shop para sa masa. Pangkalahatan. Mayaman, middle class, mahirap, pwede na kayo mag-kape diyan (Our coffee shop for the masses will soon be opened. It is for everyone. Whether you are rich, middle class, or poor, you can have coffee there),” he said in a live broadcast in August.
“Gusto ko mura. Disente, malinis, class, pero abot ng lahat ng tao ‘yung presyo (I want it to be affordable. Decent, clean, classy, but everyone should be able to afford the products),” he added.
4. It is easily accessible
KapeTolyo is a few steps away from the Central Light Rail Transit (LRT) station and several jeepney terminals, making it easily accessible for commuters.
5. Its architecture is inspired by Manila’s history
The DEPW said they drew inspiration from the different architecture styles in the city in designing the coffee shop’s contemporary look, similar to the city government’s previous infrastructure projects.
6. It showcases the beauty of Andres Bonifacio Monument Park
KapeTolyo’s glass walls will allow visitors to enjoy the picturesque view of the rehabilitated Andres Bonifacio Monument Park. The rehabilitation of the once filthy park near the Manila City Hall was one of Domagoso’s first projects after stepping into office. Instead of just aggressively cleaning the area, the local chief executive vowed to elevate it into a local attraction. Now, capiz lights hang from the park’s trees, lending the place a warm, dreamy atmosphere. It is also now teeming with greeneries, in line with Domagoso’s vision to create more green spaces in the city. A musical dancing fountain, that puts on 15-minute light shows every night, fronts the Andres Bonifacio Monument.
7. It is near other tourist spots in Manila
Those who plan to visit Intramuros can easily fit in KapeTolyo in their itinerary as it is only walking distance from the historic “Walled City.” It is also near Mehan Garden.
Images are from Manila Public Information Office.