For a long time, Filipino Literature didn’t have a space in Bulacan.
To bridge this gap, ISTORYA STUDIOS INC. weaves together a curated home for the visual arts, local books, specialty coffee, and community. Indeed, by hosting free workshops, creative events, and poetry readings, it provides Bulakenyos with a sacred “third place”
—a sanctuary designed for genuine, screen-free connection. Based in Guiguinto, Bulacan, this artist-led publisher features an independent bookshop, a cozy cafe (Kape Lunan), and dedicated creative spaces.
True to its name, ISTORYA STUDIOS seeks to craft and curate meaningful stories. What began as a simple family project by artist-parents Rodel Tapaya and Marina Cruz has since blossomed into a vibrant hub where storytellers and seekers collaborate.
ISTORYA Advocates for Young, Local Voices
When we say “regional is national,” places like ISTORYA Studios are exactly what we mean. Founded by Rodel and Marina, this unique studio-meets-bookshop shares a cozy footprint with Kape Lunan to explore the world through creativity.
Notably, both founders are incredible storytellers in their own right. Rodel weaves folklore and social history into vivid paintings, while Marina explores nostalgic memories and antique objects tied to the women of her family.
Together, they have channeled this shared vision into a community-driven space.
Primarily, ISTORYA operates as a publisher of artist-authored books and collaborative stories. To ensure accessibility, they intentionally keep browsing copies on hand—which is a truly big deal in Bulacan.
ISTORYA stands as a warm welcome sign for young, local storytellers, reminding them that their voices will always be heard.
Kape Lunan: A Cozy Ambience to Create and Read
You just know it’s the perfect “third place” to be. After all, the endless wave of minimalist cafes is getting tiring. With their uncomfortable seats and tiny tables, they often isolate people rather than encourage community. In contrast, Kape Lunan offers varied seating designed for both solo time and cozy conversations.
It feels artisanal, yet remains highly practical.
Structurally, the studio features three distinct spaces. Right at the entrance sits Kape Lunan. Just beside it, you’ll find the bookstore and library. Aside from their own publications, ISTORYA stocks titles from UP Press, UST Publishing House, Anvil, and other local publishers.
Furthermore, they actively enrich the literary scene by including children’s literature tailored to specific age groups. By doing so, they help hone the next generation of storytellers.
Moving outside, the extended alfresco area offers space to enjoy coffee, while the upstairs area houses an art exhibit space for creative events and book launches.
While ISTORYA x Kape Lunan already boasts a loyal following, its audience is rapidly expanding. Consequently, the crowd nowadays is much more diverse.
For instance, regulars can sometimes find it distracting when younger customers host mini-photoshoots in the cafe’s gram-worthy corners.
However, it is easy to see the good side of it.
Literature has to be of service to everyone, not just those who already read and write.
Championing Local Art with Community Events
The magic of ISTORYA really comes alive through its community-driven programming. Upstairs, their newly opened exhibit studio acts as a vibrant gallery space. Recently, they hosted KARATIG: A Group Exhibition—a beautifully named show (meaning “neighboring”) that celebrated regional Bulakenyo talent.
But they don’t just hang art on the walls; they actively invite the community to participate. From “Typewriting Therapy” workshops using vintage typewriters to lively open mic nights and Bookwentuhan sessions, the space always buzzes with energy.
It’s exactly this kind of programming that proves why spaces like ISTORYA are so vital—they give artists a voice and connect them directly with the community.
Where to find them:
- Location: 189 San Lorenzo Ruiz St., Rosaryville Subdivision, Brgy. Santa Cruz, Guiguinto, Bulacan
- Instagram: @istoryastudios
