Amanda Virrey
Choco-Late de Batirol in Baguio City
There’s no other chocolate drink that sticks to my mind than the Choco-Late de Batirol in Baguio City.
Memories of that chocolate concoction being stirred ever so artfully inside the copper pitcher remain, haunting me back to savor more of its rich, sweet, and subtly crisp beverage. An ancient beverage that has so ingeniously been conceived in Camp John in Hay in 1996 to instill a profound appreciation for the country’s heritage,
Where to indulge in this calming beverage over a serving of hot bibingka (rice cake) and coconut-shredded suman (sticky rice) in a place brimming with earthly beauty and artifacts of a hundred years is simply a continued affirmation of dreams manifested.
The place even shares insights into situations that are made memorable, from reading a book in a trellis-covered nook to holding intimate celebrations in its Cordilleran garden.
Thus, to be inspired by sheer passion, as perceived in Choco-Late de Batirol, may be regarded densely. Yet, it is most natural, which the slight saltiness and heavenly sweetness of its hot and grainy chocolate reveal.
One actually feels the cacao farmers’ joy and pride that Choco-Late de Batirol supports in every taste of this hot cocoa.
Choco-Late de Batirol also spreads delight beyond its homegrown chocolate paste. Peanut and Garlic Chips are perfect for eating as a snack due to its low contents, Taba ng talangka – a paste of crab fats, Peanut Brittle – sweet-coated peanuts in plain and chocolate flavors, Organic Rice of unpolished blends and of polished ones, and more.
Still, it is amazing what real passions can do; how the love for chocolates, the Philippines, and Mother Nature nurture people’s lives and of the land they dwell in, as there lies the spirit of environmental conservation and sustainable eco-tourism.
Much of this shall be realized in a sprawling farm in Benguet. Besides housing an organic nursery for about 20,000 cacao seedlings, it will also serve as a nature retreat for families, healing, and spiritual advocates with sky-lit eco-friendly houses to boot.
Joining Choco-Late de Batirol in this heartfelt dream is the Tam-Awan Artists Village, Share-A-Joy Foundation, Lonely Planet, and the Department of Tourism.
Therefore, it only fits to make a hot chocolate toast to more of the Choco-Late de Batirol experience and realize dreams.
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