The Journey of Finding Value

From a simple dream years ago of just a basic children's Chabacano learning book to now officially being embraced and recognized by the entire province. 💖

It's not an easy journey with all the never ending drama, issues and rollercoaster of emotions to bring this city living heritage treasure back to life to its real value. Napakadaming makukulay na kwento behind the scenes kaya I will always remember this moment as the diploma.

Gracias Provincial Government of Cavite for the accreditation of our NGO and to the person who took the steering wheel in driving this rollercoaster journey bringing Chabacano to unimaginable places - CCD President Che Enriquez. 

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my mentor and constant guide Mam Joy Dela Rosa throughout this Chabacano journey especially in creating Book 2, Book 3, and the unreleased 100 pages activity book designed to help learners practice and reinforce what they’ve learned from Book 1 and Book 2. The hardest part in this journey has always been forgetting the right words or getting lost in the spelling at times. Without her guidance, I wouldn’t have come this far, nor would the content for our NGO have reached its current depth and accuracy. You are our major pillar. Muchas gracias Mam Joy!

All books are available. Message Enriquez Publishing House FB page directly for your orders. 

#TheJourneyOfFindingValue

Chabacano Caviteño at the 1st European Day of Languages in the Philippines at One Ayala

The Chabacano journey that began in 2019 when there were hardly passengers, no driver for direction and fuel to keep things moving. But now, little by little, the wheels are turning. Marami pang lubak ang dadaanan at stopover bago ang destinasyon na kung maabot o hindi panahon lang ang makapagsasabi pero ang sigurado maraming pintuan ng daan na ang bukas. At nadagdagan pa ng mga bumukas ng araw na ito. 

Naalala ko exactly a year ago this month, I told someone – “Remember, you are of value and always keep that in mind.” One year later, I believe those words were more than fulfilled. Tapos na ba ang misyon? Siguro, marahil, datapuwat. Where this journey will continue to lead, I do not know.  The choice of what doors to open and direction to go is not in my hands. This early I am feeling uncertainty but I’ll always treasure yesterday’s Speak Dating event as a pinnacle and a kind of graduation of being part of the Circle of Chabacano Dreams. #TheJourneyOfFindingValue

Thank you Instituto Cervantes for being very supportive in our Chabacano advocacy. 

Chabacano Caviteño goes to Manila International Book Fair 2025

The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) is the country’s biggest and longest-running book event, attracting over 160,000 visitors each year. It brings together more than 200 local and international exhibitors, publishers, authors, and educators alike. Beyond being a marketplace for books, MIBF promotes literacy, uplifts the publishing industry, and offers a space for book signings, product launches, and engaging discussions for readers of all ages.

This year, Circle of Chabacano Dreams President Che Enriquez brought our beloved Chabacano to the Manila International Book Fair through her very own Enriquez Publishing House, joining The Indie Publishers Collab Ph at BooX that Leave a Mark booth. Included in her idea is the book signing. 

Last year, when we struggled finding a publisher for the NGO to move forward, she built her own publishing house. I might be her first author pero sana hindi ako ang last. Sana next year madami ng mga author na taga Cavite City ang may book signing sa MIBF. Bitbit di lamang ang mga aklat ng Chabacano pati mga maaring ipagmamalaking literatura ng ating ciudad.  

A heartfelt thank you to my Chabacano editor - Ms. Jocelyn Dela Rosa. Muchas gracias for your unwavering support, your guidance, your honest corrections (even in my posts!), and your thoughtful advice. I deeply appreciate it all.

To the following DepEd teachers whom Boss Che approached to ensure the final books are all corrected: English editors- Mr. Marvin A. Arnaldo, Ed.D., Mr. Don Kristopher G. Noble, Ms. Marjorie Princess C. Abulog and Filipino editor - Mr. Mark Vincent Millona. Maraming-maraming salamat for your expertise and dedication in shaping these three books.

To everyone who visited our booth from September 10–14, thank you for supporting our advocacy in preserving and promoting one of our city’s greatest treasures - Chabacano. 

I also like to give a big shoutout to Cavite State University through Sir Vhernie Lopez and St. Joseph College President Sr. Annie Alejado, A.R.. Maraming salamat po for believing in Chabacano and standing with us in this cause.

Lastly, our dynamics is really weird but at the end of the day, we always find a way to settle things. Maraming salamat, Che not just for me, but even more for everything you are doing for the heritage of Cavite City. 

And of course, thank you, CCD Team! ❤🫰

#MIBF2025

From Food to Heritage: A Journey Fueled by Chabacano Caviteño and Dreams

This blog began as a humble food blog. My personal attempt to archive the forgotten flavors of Cavite City and the plan to transcend it to the entire Cavite province. But I got stuck with Cavite City content and as I dug deeper into my city’s culinary roots, I found myself drawn to something far greater: our heritage. Thanks to Sir Ige Ramos. And nestled within that heritage was a language so familiar - Chabacano Caviteño - the very language I grew up speaking at home since I was a baby.

Only a few years ago, while going through old family photos, I discovered that my grandfather a well-known shop teacher at San Roque Elementary School was once part of an elite group of Caviteños advocating for the preservation of Chabacano called Círculo Chabacano Caviteño. Knowing him, it made sense. He was articulate, intelligent, and deeply community-minded. But oddly, he never once talked about this part of his life at home.

When I started sharing Chabacano facts on this blog’s Facebook page, driven by frustration over the city library’s closure, parents occasionally contact me seeking translation help. One message stuck with me: a mother said her child's lolo a native Chabacano speaker couldn't understand the Chabacano poem the child had to study and recite, when I check it was in Chavacano de Zamboanga! It is what is being taught in one of the city school. That moment echoed the same frustration I felt more than a decade ago when I couldn’t find a single online resource about Cavite City’s Chabacano cuisine. That very frustration was what gave birth to this blog in the first place. So it also planted a dream which is to create even just one Chabacano children’s book. Just something basic for kids because upon my research there is none. A single book for the young students to help them learn even just a few words in the language that defines our identity.

In mid 2022, I met for the first time Ms. Che Enriquez during an event at the Pangilinan ancestral house. Heritage was of course one of our topic, and in passing, I mentioned my dream of a Chabacano book. When I got home, I messaged her and offered her the idea. I even said she could put her name on it. I didn’t care about credit; I just wanted the book to happen. Prior the elections that year, I looked into the fb pages of every candidate who ran for councilor and among them, she was the only one I saw who had a genuine, albeit scattered, passion for heritage. I posted in one of her campaign post, people should vote her which was the first time I did for any city candidate. I am not fond and never attended any campaign events. I wasn’t much into politics especially local one and don't know her personally. I only knew she studied at St. Joseph, like me.

Why did I make the offer to her even though she didn’t win the election? There was a genuine sincerity, kindness, and trustworthiness in her aura and presence that struck me the moment I first saw and observed her. I also knew she possessed the machinery and intellect. Her response at that time was lukewarm, so I let the idea go and eventually forgot about her and the book proposal.

In the final quarter of 2023, Lutong Cavite began documenting and sharing Chabacano content, and a few months later, out of nowhere, she reached out to me with an interest in creating the book. Surprised, as I hadn’t yet written the book beyond designing its cover, I eagerly said yes. I finished the book after a month an a half including the entire layout. I wrote “Lutong Cavite” as the author, thinking this was a one-time collaboration then we part ways. But that single book turned out to be the key to opening so many doors. 

I still vividly remember when she handed me the very first printed copy of El Chabacano Caviteño Diccionario Visual in the parking lot of Lago. The second time we met, stepping out of a Ford Fortuner, handing the book like a boss then instructing me to check it for corrections, and driving off just as quickly. I told myself, “Hala, parang mayora lang...”

Little did I know, she was carrying a much bigger dream and that quick exchange would be the start of something bigger. What I thought would be a one-time collaboration turned into a movement. From that moment, she never stopped. And because of that, neither have we.

Now, just over a year later, here we are with Circle of Chabacano Dreams, an NGO with heart, vision, and purpose. We just signed a Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement with DepEd and the Cavite City LGU last June 5, 2025. 

LGU x CCD x DepEd

Our dream is no longer just a book. We now are into polishing the pipeline of programs and projects aimed at revitalizing our city's beloved heritage language.

Ms. Che Enriquez and her CCD Team with Mayor Denver Chua and SDS Juan Araojo, Jr.

And to date, we are proud to share that we’ve gathered and produced multiple dozens of Chabacano Caviteño learning and cultural materials. These materials are the result of months of research, collaboration with various individuals, and genuine passion for our language and heritage. In the coming weeks, they will be made available for sale as part of our fundraising efforts to support our ongoing and future projects.

This is just the beginning. More materials are already in development each one to spark curiosity, encourage learning, and preserve the beauty of Chabacano for city generations to come.

Chabacano Caviteño is part of Cavite City's intangible cultural heritage - a treasure worth preserving. Our NGO believes that with what's left, we can still revitalize and preserve portions of it. We dream of giving future generations something they can carry not just in classrooms, but under their skins - in their hearts - because this language is part of who we are.

And of course, a heartfelt thank you to Ms. Camille Icasiano-Sastrillo our Vice President. This journey would not have taken shape without her enormous strength, pivotal role and great support. We could not have made this work without the behind-the-scenes guidance and belief in the cause. I also believe she saw, as I did, the glimmer that can possibly shine brightly in time.

For now, we don’t know exactly where this journey will lead. But one thing is certain with love for our heritage and the right people by our side, we’re looking ahead with hope, purpose, and hearts full of Chabacano dreams. ✨

 

A Mother's Day to Remember: Cooking, Culture, and Chabacano with the Cavite Bulilit and Teen Health Workers

Spending Mother’s Day at St. Joseph College with the Cavite Bulilit and Teen Health Workers and their equally amazing mommies was truly heartwarming. 

The morning was filled with laughter, learning, and love for both food and heritage. We kicked things off with a short heritage lecture where we explored Chabacano heirloom cuisines and the deep roots of two beloved Chabacano heirloom dishes: Pipian, a rich peanut-based chicken dish reminiscent of Kare-Kare, and Calandracas, a hearty sopas-like soup loaded with comfort and memories.

What made this gathering even more special was that it wasn’t just about cooking it was about connection. We wove language into every step. We introduced basic Chabacano phrases for cooking and meal-time conversations, aiming to help the next generation embrace our beautiful, but endangered, local language in a setting as familiar and beloved as the family dining table.

St. Joseph College Mock Hotel - the cooking venue.

A glimpse of the Chabacano cooking activity proper

Cavite Bulilit and Teen Health Workers proudly presented their cooked dishes afterwards and two were recognized - one for Best in Taste and another for Best in Presentation.

Big thanks to Doc Carol and Doc Vanie of Cavite Medical Society for partnering in this advocacy with Circle of Chabacano Dreams. 

And of course, a big shoutout to our ever-enthusiastic CCD President, Che Enriquez, who happily rolled up her sleeves to join the cooking and, as always, left with yet another brilliant idea brewing in her head! 

Witnessing the Magic: Circle of Chabacano Dreams Finds Its Voice at Dia del Libro

Finally stepping into the vibrant atmosphere of Dia del Libro not just as attendees, but as active participants with our very own booth, felt like a significant milestone. It was the culmination of countless hours of preparation, fueled by the hope of connecting with fellow book lovers and heritage enthusiasts. Little did we know the incredible wave of support and genuine curiosity that awaited us.

From the moment the event opened, our booth became a hub of activity. What started as a hopeful endeavor quickly transformed into a bustling center of conversation and discovery. People of all ages and backgrounds were drawn to the display of Chabacano literary works, their eyes widening with intrigue as they learned about the Spanish-based creole language that has shaped the cultural landscape of Cavite City for generations.

Fr. Virgilio Saenz Mendoza was an early bird who took the time from his busy schedule to support us. He is also one of those who contributed Chabacano writing contents for our two dozen zines.

Mr. Marcos Octavio Vara Jacobo, Second Secretary of Embamex Filipinas

The energy was palpable. Questions flew thick and fast – about the history of Chabacano, the nuances of its vocabulary, and the stories held within the pages we proudly presented. We shared anecdotes, recited familiar phrases, and witnessed firsthand the spark of connection ignite in those who encountered Chabacano literature for the first time. The crowd at our booth remained steady, a vibrant testament to the enduring appeal of heritage and the power of storytelling. Even as the day drew to a close, and other booths began to quiet down, our corner continued to buzz with enthusiastic visitors eager to learn more.

To say it was our biggest event yet would be an understatement. It was a powerful validation of our mission. The overwhelming interest in Chabacano literature at #DiaDelLibro2025 undeniably reinforces our belief in the profound ability of heritage to connect and inspire. Seeing so many individuals, from curious onlookers to those with roots in Cavite, engage with our literary treasures has filled our hearts with immense pride and renewed our commitment.

Mr. Edwin Guinto who brought along his Republica Filipina Reenactment Group to support us and our booth was an instant hit to the crowd.

Mr. Ige Ramos with National Book Development Board

This Dia del Libro wasn't just about showcasing books; it was about sharing a piece of our identity, fostering understanding, and igniting a passion for a heritage that deserves to be celebrated. The experience has left us energized and even more determined to continue our journey of preserving the past and empowering the future of Chabacano language and literature. 

The momentum from this incredible event will fuel our upcoming projects, including the exciting launch of Enriquez Publishing House, ensuring that the literary voice of Cavite City continues to resonate for generations to come. 

Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and shared in this momentous occasion. The dream is alive, and we're thrilled to continue this journey with you! 

CCD President Che Enriquez with Ambassador of Spain to the Philippines H.E. Miguel Utray and Las Cuerdas Caviteños which she brought along to additionally showcase Chabacano culture. 

For photos of this recent book event and current NGO updates you can visit CCD's official FB Page: Click Here

#DiaDelLibro2025 #ChabacanoLiterature #CaviteCityHeritage #CulturalPreservation #CCD

Planting Seeds of Hope: The Circle of Chabacano Dreams Begins

 

Earlier this month, on January 3rd, Circle of Chabacano Dreams, Inc. officially launched its mission to preserve and celebrate the vibrant Chabacano Caviteño language and the rich cultural heritage of Cavite City. The launch event, a resounding success, marked the beginning of an inspiring journey under the visionary leadership of founder Ms. Che Enriquez.

At its core, the Circle of Chabacano Dreams, Inc. is committed to empowering the community through a range of initiatives. Our focus encompasses education, the vibrant celebration of our culture through engaging events, and the development of economic opportunities that are deeply rooted in the Chabacano Caviteño identity.

A central pillar of our mission is the revival and flourishing of the Chabacano Caviteño language. We are dedicated to creating dynamic and accessible learning tools that will nurture a thriving linguistic community, ensuring its continuity for generations to come.

Furthermore, we are deeply committed to honoring the entirety of Caviteño heritage, recognizing its inherent richness and vibrancy. Our efforts will encompass various aspects of this heritage, ensuring its preservation and promotion.

We warmly invite you to join us on this meaningful journey. 

For photos of the launch and current NGO updates you can visit CCD's official FB Page: Click Here