“What if we start a business here?”
If you’ve been following me on social media, you’ve probably already seen a few posts about The Community Hangar.
The Community Hangar is a coworking space in San Fernando, Pampanga that James and I officially opened this May. But long before the doors opened, the idea had already started taking shape months earlier.
Back in December, while driving around San Fernando, James casually brought up the idea of starting a business together. We both saw the potential of Pampanga as a fast-growing region, especially with developments like the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) expected to bring more opportunities, businesses, and professionals into the area in the coming years.
We knew we wanted to build something meaningful while the city continued to grow.
The only question was: what exactly should we build?
After a lot of conversations, we realized that creating a coworking space made the most sense for us. As someone working remotely in PR, branding, and freelancing, I understood the need for a space that helps people stay productive while still feeling connected. James, on the other hand, has always been passionate about building communities and creating spaces where people feel welcome.
Combining those two things felt natural.
Finding the Right Space
The next challenge was figuring out where to build it.
We visited several locations around San Fernando, but we wanted something accessible and close to the places that were already part of our daily lives. Since James would eventually be moving in with me, we hoped to find a location near home and near CrossFit Cabalen, where I coach.
Then the perfect opportunity came unexpectedly.
Coach Mai, the owner of CrossFit Cabalen, mentioned that the space directly in front of the gym would soon become available. The moment we heard it, we immediately knew.
“We’ll take it.”
And just like that, The Community Hangar finally had a home.
Building It from Scratch
One thing we quickly learned is that building a coworking space involves so much more than just tables, chairs, and Wi-Fi.
We built almost everything from the ground up ourselves. From talking to contractors and visiting suppliers to brainstorming systems and spending countless hours in meetings, every small detail demanded time, energy, and patience.
Thankfully, we were never alone in the process.
Friends helped us with business registration, branding, interior design ideas, air conditioning systems, and even improving our business plans and workflows. Some people gave advice, while others simply showed up when we needed extra hands.
That is probably what makes this place feel special to us.
Even though this is technically our business, it was built through the support of an entire community.
Opening Day
Since this was our very first business together, we honestly had no idea what to expect during opening week.
What surprised us most was the overwhelming support from friends and family. People brought food, plants, decorations, and thoughtful gifts. Someone even arranged balloons outside the space to help announce our opening.
It was one of those moments where everything suddenly felt real.
After months of planning, building, adjusting, and figuring things out as we went, people were finally walking into the space we had imagined for so long.
Unlearning and Relearning
One of the biggest adjustments we faced as startup business owners was learning how to wear multiple hats.
At Foundever, my role is focused on branding and PR. At CrossFit Cabalen, I coach. I also manage social media and online coaching clients on the side. In those roles, the responsibilities are clearly defined.
Running a business is completely different.
Now, I help with marketing, branding, customer service, cleaning, operations, and even reception duties. James and I constantly rotate tasks while we familiarize ourselves with every part of the system before eventually growing our team.
Most days start at 6:00 in the morning and end close to midnight.
It can be exhausting, but every time we see people working comfortably in the space, making connections, or simply enjoying the environment we built, it reminds us why we started.
Still Growing, Still Learning
As more people discover The Community Hangar, we know there is still a lot for us to learn.
Some days are packed with bookings and clients. Other days are quieter, with only a handful of regulars staying throughout the day. But that is part of the journey.
We are still in our first month, and honestly, we are just grateful.
Grateful for the lessons, the people we’ve met, the opportunities, and the community slowly forming inside our space.
There is still a long way to go, but looking back at where we started, we also know we’ve already come so far.
Come Visit The Community Hangar
Whether you are a freelancer, remote worker, student, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking for a productive and welcoming space, we would love to have you at The Community Hangar.
More than just a coworking space, we hope to build a community where people can work, connect, collaborate, and grow together.
Visit us at:
The Community Hangar
Zone 2, Ramar Village (alon McArthur Highway)
Brgy. San Agustin, San Fernando, Pampanga
Operating Hours:
Monday to Friday (10:00 am to 11:00 pm)
Saturday (10:00 AM to 6:00 pm)
Follow our journey on social media and come experience your next productive workday with us at The Community Hangar.
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