While nothing beats the ‘kilig’ of a young love, entering a relationship early brings a handful of challenges. But once survived, these tests can also strengthen a couple’s love for each other and make them realize why it’s always worth the fight.
The episode opens with a short interview with Melanie Dilao and Jade Aquino, a young couple from Iloilo. They’ve been together for almost five years, starting out as campus sweethearts. “Nagkakilala po kami 2013 during college days. Naging magkaibigan po kami. ‘Yung circle of friends namin iisa,” said Melanie.
“Dahil po iisa ‘yung circle of friends namin, parang lumiit ‘yung mundo namin at mas nakilala namin ang isa’t isa. Kahit hindi pa kami mag-on dati parang iba na talaga ‘yung sweetness, eh. Tinutukso kami sa classroom at ‘yun nagkatotoo,” Jade added.
After graduation, the lovebirds worked as teachers in Thailand. Since their jobs were affected by the pandemic, Melanie and Jade decided to put up a milk tea shop in the province just last March, at the peak of the crisis.
What makes their milk tea business unique is the use of bamboo cups instead of the regular plastic cups. This way, they can also help the local workers in their community and promote sustainability.
“Since nahirapan kaming mag-biyahe, we opted to put up Darling’s Milk Tea, so to help in our everyday finances, para maka-save at makatulong sa pamilya. Above all, gusto namin makatulong sa mga local workers kasi kasama ‘yung tatay ko at mga local workers sa pag-provide sa amin ng bamboo cups that we’re using sa Darling’s Milk Tea,” Jade shared.
The bamboo cups can be re-used and recycled as well. It can be used as plant pots, pencil holders, or just any kind of container.
The couple didn’t have a difficult time venturing into business. “Mas naging madali po siya kasi couple na kami. Na-establish na ‘yung love, trust, and commitment. So, ‘yung gagawin na lang namin is to pass it through sa business namin,” said Melanie.
Jade mentioned that managing a business with a partner is all about wise decision-making. There are times when the different ideas clash but they still manage to find a common ground. As their business grows, their relationship grows as well.