For many, the day does not quite begin without a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Choosing the beans, preparing the grounds, and brewing the coffee all contribute to the final cup, making each step part of the experience. This focus on the everyday is reflected in the approach of Modo Food and Living Japan, which brings Japanese food, coffee, and lifestyle products closer to Filipino consumers. This August, the brand marks its first year with a month-long celebration of specialty coffee, culinary innovation, and Japanese culture.

Coffee takes center stage in its collaboration with Unir, which brings together four shared values: craftsmanship, education, hospitality, and everyday excellence. The partnership highlights the work and knowledge behind each cup while encouraging consumers to better understand the products they use and the everyday routines built around them.

For Takeki Furukubo, vice chairman of Modo, the past year has reinforced the value of this approach. He said, “Modo was born from a desire to create meaningful connections between Japan and the Philippines. While many of our products come from Japan, what we truly hope to share is a way of thinking—one rooted in craftsmanship, attention to detail, and care for everyday living.”

He adds, “As we celebrate our first anniversary, we're grateful for the community that has embraced this vision, and we're excited to continue introducing experiences that bring Japanese culture and Filipino hospitality together in a way that feels authentic, approachable, and enriching.”

Coffee experts Hisashi Yamamoto, founder and roast master, and Tomoko Yamamoto, head barista and general manager, came to the Philippines to share their expertise. Founded in Kyoto in 2006, Unir Coffee has built its reputation through coffee sourcing, roasting, brewing, sensory evaluation, and education, with both bringing extensive experience in Japan’s specialty coffee industry.

They led the coffee experience, which featured guided tastings, a rare coffee flight, brewing demonstrations, and sensory activities. Guests also sampled an exclusive signature coffee cocktail while exploring different coffee profiles and the factors that shape each cup.

Another highlight to come is the Philippine launch of the Vermicular Yukihira, a 2026 Red Dot Award-winning saucepan that combines traditional Japanese design with modern engineering. The launch will feature a product showcase and live cooking demonstrations, highlighting its heat performance, usability, and precision.

With more activities ahead, the celebration brings together coffee, cookware, and other elements of everyday living. From the morning coffee ritual to the tools used in the kitchen, these experiences show how thoughtful design and function can become part of the way people live at home.