THERE’S HOPE!
I love Pampanga. Living here is an experience filled with cultural richness, historical depth, and vibrant community life. As a resident of this storied province, I know its streets, stories, and spirit like the back of my hand. The pride in calling Pampanga home comes not only from its scenic landscapes and strategic location but also from its unique contributions to the Philippines’ cultural and economic tapestry.
I’m even prouder seeing Pampanga scoring wins left and right these days. Last week, we celebrated the commendable leadership of Coach and Governor Dennis “Delta” Garcia Pineda and the Pampanga Giant Lanterns’ securing of the North Division title in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) for the second consecutive year.
And now, turning our attention to culinary achievements, the bill to officially designate Pampanga as the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines” has advanced to the Senate plenary and has received sponsorship. This recognition speaks volumes about the province's deep-rooted influence and expertise in Philippine cuisine, cementing its reputation as a hub of culinary excellence.
In line with the celebration of local flavors, I recently joined the grand opening of Side Eye Cafe, a new establishment that perfectly embodies Pampanga’s vibrant culinary landscape. Founded by the charismatic entrepreneur Jeio Rivera, whom I know from our shared service in the Philippine Coast Guard, the café reflects the diligence and dedication characteristic of our corps. These qualities are evident in the owner, whose meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence shines through in every aspect of the store.
With his bright eyes and infectious enthusiasm, Jeio is the ideal host for such a venture. He’s a business management graduate from the University of the Cordilleras and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship at the De La Salle University in Manila. Raised by his father, retired AFP Brigadier General Ferdinand Jose G. Rivera, and supported by his mother, Hope Castro Rivera, a former hotel manager, Jeio’s commitment to quality and community values is clear. These personal influences enrich the café’s atmosphere, fostering a culture of respect and open-mindedness—a fitting tribute, especially since the opening coincided with The International Day for Tolerance.
Many familiar faces attended the event including Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Rosve Henson, former Pampanga District Board Member and Mayor Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab, and Clark Development Corporation Director Helen Nicolette Henson. After all, Side Eye Café shows a lot of promise.
Its name, a clever nod to the power of non-verbal communication, captures the essence of the café—a venue designed for meaningful exchanges, anchored the subtleties of gesture and glance.
The restaurateur told me, “We aim to create an environment where conversations unfold effortlessly, enabling patrons to forge deep connections through the subtle art of non-verbal cues, making each interaction rich with intimacy and insight.” As a communications professional, it’s rare for me to be easily impressed, yet Jeio’s perspective struck a chord.
His focus on non-verbal communication reminded me of Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman's leadership style, which similarly values subtlety and understanding in interactions.
The aesthetic of the coffee house is minimalistic and elegant, mirroring Jeio’s refined and understated style. Artworks featuring iconic characters with signature side-eye gazes adorn the walls giving the place a more chic, fun, and welcoming vibe. Spacious enough to accommodate up to 80 guests, the café offers ample room for comfortable seating and social interaction.
Beyond coffee, the tantalizing menu consists of inventive dishes from Seafood Alavar Pasta to Balut Sisig, to delectable desserts like Matcha Dream Cakes and Cheesecakes in a jar.
Jeio also told me that they source their coffee beans from local farmers in the Northern Philippines, supporting regional agriculture. For those with a taste for international flavors, they also bring in beans from Brazil. In essence, they help local farmers while providing a global flair to their coffee choices.
These beans are exclusively roasted in Pampanga, further supporting local livelihoods. The café’s approach of blending local flavors with international standards establishes a new benchmark for coffee quality in the region. Congratulations to Jeio and Pampanga for another milestone!
Through Side Eye Café, we are reminded that even in our fast-paced, often polarized world, there are still spots where dialogue and respect can brew together beautifully. It is located at CJG Bldg, Brgy. Baliti, San Fernando, Pampanga, near His Life City Church.
There is hope!