The first time I visited Cebu, a local friend gave me a snack called Piaya as a souvenir.

At the time, I didn't know its name. I just said "thank you" and opened the bag after I got back to Japan. Inside were several thin, round, flat pastries. They had a sweet paste made from brown sugar, and a subtle nutty flavor with a simple sweetness filled my mouth.

Piaya is a traditional Filipino pastry, especially known as a specialty of Negros Island. It features a thin, chewy dough filled with an anko-like paste, typically made from Muscovado sugar (unrefined brown sugar). It's baked, giving it a distinct fragrant flavor. While it might look plain, once you try it, the deliciousness is truly addictive.

She remembered I liked Piaya and gave it to me as a souvenir. Piaya pairs really well with black iced coffee, making snack time a little moment of peace.

Next time I got to Cebu, I plan to buy a bit more for myself. They're light, not bulky, and seem to keep well enought.