If you’ve ever strolled through a Papi and Friends flea market, you’d know it’s not your typical pop-up. It’s a vibe—loud, local, and unapologetically Cebuano. But what you might not know is that it all started with one thrift-loving TikTok content creator and his friends, dreaming of a better market scene in the city.
We had a chat with Cjay, the founder of Papi & Friends, and got a glimpse of how this community-led flea market was born, what keeps it ticking, and how it’s quickly becoming a staple in Cebu’s local culture.
From Thrifter to Market Organizer
“I’ve always been a fan of flea markets and pop-ups,” Cjay begins. “But in Cebu, there wasn’t much happening outside of Molave Community Marketplace, Ukay Ta Bai, and Voulez Vouz.” That spark of realization led to something bigger—Papi & Friends, a new kind of market for the Cebuano crowd.
But it wasn’t just his idea alone. Cjay credits Willow Hoods, the mind behind Molave Marketplace, as one of his biggest motivators. “He really pushed me to actualize the vision and even helped me launch the first event on Molave Street.” What started as a one-man passion project has since grown into a 5-person team with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of flair.
Behind the Name
Before “Papi and Friends,” Cjay was known online as Papi Thrifts—a thrift seller and TikTok content creator. That explains “Papi.” But what about “And Friends”?
“The ‘friends’ referred to my real friends who joined my first event as merchants,” he shares. “Now, it includes new merchants and even our event attendees—we consider them all our friends.”
That inclusive, warm energy is what defines the vibe of every Papi and Friends event. It’s not just a market; it’s a reunion.
So What’s in it For You?
The short answer: a lot. The long answer? A well-curated mix of:
- Vintage & local fashion
- Custom accessories & jewelry
- Homeware & ceramics
- Art, crafts, and quirky “anik-aniks”
- Flower bouquets, food, and drinks
- Fun experiences like tarot reading, live portraits, photobooths, and even the occasional ₱20 kiss stamp from a cheeky kissing booth
It’s playful, unexpected, and always evolving.
Curation is Key
While they love to give opportunities, Cjay and the team are also big on curation. “We’re very selective when it comes to new vendors,” he explains. “Branding, marketability, and presentation all play a role.”
New sellers can apply through a form on their Instagram bio, but only those that match the event’s vibe and standards make it to the floor.
Cjay says it best: “We’re not just event organizers. We’re community builders.” That grassroots, community-first approach is what truly sets them apart.
Beyond flea markets, the team hosts run clubs, hikes, and other activities to nurture the relationships they’ve built with both merchants and attendees. They’ve also run donation drives and support local causes, proving they walk the talk when it comes to giving back.
Weathering the Storm—Literally
Like many outdoor events, weather is their biggest hurdle. But the team’s commitment is unmatched. “We provide essentials like trapal for coverage and on-ground support,” says Cjay. “But what’s beautiful is when merchants help each other out before our team even gets there. That ‘bayanihan’ spirit—that’s what makes it all worth it.”
Why Flea Markets Matter to Cebu
Papi and Friends isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement. It’s giving Cebu’s creative entrepreneurs the platform they deserve. “It’s fulfilling hearing stories from our merchants—how our events helped with their sales or boosted their confidence,” Cjay shares.
His advice to aspiring market founders? “Just start.” It’s simple but solid advice—because everything great begins with one brave step.
Ready to catch their next event? Or maybe join in as a merchant or a curious wanderer? Keep up with Papi and Friends on Instagram and check out their vibe in this podcast episode with Cookie$ from their first flea market at 8 Banawa Centrale.
Because in Cebu, community is the culture, and Papi & Friends is leading the way.
Photography Kyrra Kho | Location Zero-X Café