It was a marketing plan hatched by the city government of Cagayan de Oro that the night cafe sprung to life in 2004, probably a first in Mindanao. Located in the open air plaza in Divisoria, the roads leading to this area are blocked off as early as 5 o’clock in the afternoon every Friday and Saturday. With this novel idea, it became an instant hit that it seems, the entire population of this city and nearby environs descended, partly curious, partly excited at this new gimik venue where families and friends gather.

Square monobloc tables and chairs are set in the open spaces along with rectangular tables laden with various food ranging from pasta, grilled items, native dishes as well as international cuisine and sandwiches. Coolers filled with refreshments and bottles of beer. Most vendors cook on the spot. As for the food, its really hit and miss.

Concerts are performed most of the time and this swells the crowd even more. Not all the space is devoted to food though. the other parts are crowded with wares like ukay-ukay and other cheap clothes, DVDs and many merchandise.

Because of the density of the people coming here, navigating to reach a specific table or stall can be slow but really its fun. Other than eating, some just hang out watching other people, checking merchandise, or just talking with friends oblivious to the din of the crowd and the concert until around 4 o’clock am. During the rainy season, tents protect the patrons from being wet.

Estan Cabigas is a multiawarded blogger, freelance photographer and writer based in Makati City, the Philippines. A true blue Cebuano, he makes stunning images and meaningful photo stories. He has contributed to local and international publications including CNN Go, National Geographic Magazine, Geo (Germany), Sunday Times Magazine (London) and other publications.

To know more about him and his photography, visit estancabigas.com.