The Ivatans are renowned for their unwavering honesty, a quality that sets them apart from many others. This reputation is something I personally experienced during my visit to the beautiful province of Batanes, particularly in the municipality of Ivana. The province truly embodies the saying, “Honesty is the best policy,” and nowhere is this more evident than at the famous Honesty Coffee Shop.
The Honesty Coffee Shop, which locals often refer to as the Honesty Store, was established in 1995 by the married couple, Jose and Elena Gabilo, after Elena’s retirement. Originally named Honesty Cafe in 1998, the shop has become a beloved landmark in the province. It’s not just a place to grab a drink, but a testament to the honesty that is ingrained in the Ivatan culture. The shop is conveniently located beside the Port of Ivana, making it a spot frequented by both locals and tourists.
What makes the Honesty Coffee Shop unique is that it operates without any staff. The store is open 24/7 and is completely unmanned. There are no cashiers, no security guards, and no employees to oversee the transactions. Despite the absence of an employee, the shop remains trustworthy, as visitors simply take what they need and pay for it based on the prices marked on the products or listed on the walls. The entire concept relies on the honesty of the customers, and the people of Ivana consistently live up to this expectation.
The shop itself is a combination of a Sari-Sari store (a small convenience store) and a coffee shop, offering a relaxing environment where visitors can sit and enjoy a cup of brewed coffee. For anyone who loves a good cup of coffee, Honesty Coffee Shop is a must-visit. The brewed coffee served here is a highlight and is especially popular with tourists and locals alike. Along with coffee, the store sells a variety of snacks, and items are tagged with their prices. Some of the prices are listed on the wall for easy reference.
One of the most unique aspects of the store is how it handles transactions. After taking what they need or want, customers are expected to write down the items they’ve selected, along with the corresponding amounts. They then place their payment in designated boxes, trusting that each person will follow the honor system. The method of self-service and reliance on honesty has led to the coffee shop becoming a tourist attraction in its own right. It has gained fame not only within the Philippines but also internationally.
What makes the Honesty Coffee Shop even more interesting is the simple yet powerful message posted on the wall: “This store is too small for dishonest people.” The sign serves as a gentle reminder of the values that the store, and the province of Batanes as a whole, uphold. This message perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the place — a commitment to trust, integrity, and respect for one another.
The Honesty Coffee Shop has become a symbol of the Ivatan people’s genuine character and commitment to community trust. For visitors, it’s not just a place to grab a snack or a coffee, but a glimpse into the culture of Batanes, where honesty isn’t just a policy but a way of life. It serves as a beautiful example of how values can shape a community and how something as simple as a coffee shop can teach us the power of trust and integrity.
