In the heart of Los Baños, Laguna, Mariano’s Coffee Station, fondly known as Coffee Mariano, is much more than a coffee shop. It’s a beacon of hope, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Founded by Leandro Legaspi Mariano in 2020, this beloved establishment grew from a modest coffee cart into a thriving community hub, embodying the journey of turning passion into reality against the odds.
Leandro’s story with coffee began far from the quaint town of Los Baños. In the vibrant city of Dubai, he worked as a barista, immersing himself in the world of coffee. Amidst Dubai’s fast-paced lifestyle, Leandro found solace and joy in the simple yet profound act of making coffee. The process of brewing, the smell of rich aromas, and the delight of serving a perfect cup captivated him. Even in the midst of the bustling city, it was coffee that truly ignited his passion.
However, in 2020, the world was upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis forced Leandro, like many others, into a position of uncertainty. Losing his job in Dubai was a significant blow, but Leandro saw this as an opportunity to start anew. Returning to the Philippines with his last savings and a dream, he decided to bring his love for coffee to his hometown of Los Baños.
With limited resources but a burning passion, Leandro started Mariano’s Coffee Station as a small coffee cart in front of Olivarez Plaza. This location was strategic, allowing him to engage directly with passersby and minimize initial investment costs. The cart quickly became a local favorite, especially known for its signature Spanish Latte—a rich and smooth blend that won over many customers.
Running a coffee cart during a global pandemic was no small feat. Leandro faced numerous challenges, from dealing with logistical issues and unpredictable weather to navigating the uncertainties of a market drastically affected by the crisis. Yet, his dedication never wavered. Each cup of coffee he served was a testament to his commitment and love for his craft. The community embraced Mariano’s Coffee Station not just for its quality coffee but for the warmth and resilience it represented. In a time of widespread uncertainty, the cart became a symbol of hope and normalcy.
As Mariano’s Coffee Station grew in popularity, Leandro saw the potential to expand. The success of the coffee cart laid the foundation for a significant leap forward: transitioning to a permanent café. This move was more than just a change in location; it was a step toward realizing a larger dream. Establishing a brick-and-mortar café involved higher operational costs, more complex logistics, and the challenge of maintaining and exceeding customer expectations in a new environment.
In challenging times, support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) was instrumental in this transition. Leandro participated in DTI’s business clinics, which provided him with valuable insights into managing a growing business. Moreover, the DTI’s FlexPHriday initiative further helped Coffee Mariano extend its reach and solidify its presence in the market. These experiences underscored the crucial role of community and government support in helping small businesses thrive.
The transition to a permanent café deepened Mariano’s connection with the Los Baños community. The new establishment became more than just a place to get coffee; it became a local hub where people could gather, relax, and feel a sense of belonging. Leandro’s commitment to his craft and his genuine interactions with customers fostered a loyal following. Mariano’s Coffee Station wasn’t just a business; it was a vital part of the community fabric, a place where people could find comfort and camaraderie.
With a solid foundation in Los Baños, Leandro began to dream even bigger. He envisioned expanding Mariano’s Coffee Station to new locations, such as in the Cities of Baguio and Batangas, areas with rich coffee cultures. This expansion was not merely about growth but about sharing the unique charm and quality of Coffee Mariano with new communities. Leandro’s approach to this expansion was thoughtful and sustainable. He understood that building a successful business was a marathon, not a sprint. Each new venture would be grounded in the same principles of quality, community engagement, and a passion for excellence that had defined Mariano’s Coffee Station from the beginning.
Reflecting on his journey, Leandro felt immense gratitude for the unexpected paths his life had taken. From losing his job in Dubai to finding success back home in the Philippines, his story is a powerful testament to resilience and the transformative power of pursuing one’s passion. Mariano’s Coffee Station has provided him with not only a livelihood but also deep personal fulfillment and the opportunity to create something meaningful for his community.
Leandro’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is rooted in his own experiences: pursue your passion with patience and persistence. Success doesn’t come overnight; it requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to embrace challenges as opportunities. His journey is a reminder that with vision and perseverance, even the most modest beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Today, Mariano’s Coffee Station stands as a celebration of entrepreneurial success, community spirit, and the enduring power of small businesses. Leandro’s story, from a humble coffee cart to a thriving local café, is a testament to the power of dreams and the impact of unwavering dedication. ♦
Date of release: 09 July 2024
