Our story

From friendship to Filipino flavours.

Kabayan Market is the story of Arcee and Kulander, a shared love of community and a desire to create a little taste of home in the Sutherland Shire.

Kulander and Arcee smiling together while travelling
Kulander and Arcee travelling together in the PhilippinesTwo lives, one shared adventure

Where it began

A friendship across countries.

We first became friends online while Arcee was an overseas Filipino worker living in Dubai. In 2023 we decided to take a holiday together in Singapore. Later that year, Arcee moved to Sydney, and we married in 2024.

Arcee and Kulander enjoying a boat trip in the Philippines

Inspired by the Philippines. Built with love in the Sutherland Shire.

A

Arcee

Food, flowers and creativity.

Arcee comes from Bulacan in the Philippines and loves the extraordinary variety of Filipino cuisine. He has a background as a florist and previously ran his own cafés in Bulacan—bringing creativity, hospitality and a natural flair for food to Kabayan Market.

K

Kulander

Community and business.

Kulander has built his career in the community services sector, developing strong business and operational experience. He brings that experience to the planning, organisation and local connections behind Kabayan Market.

Kabayan Market

Creating what the Shire was missing.

We noticed there were no Filipino businesses serving the Sutherland Shire, so in early 2026 we began selling imported groceries at local market stalls. We soon added Filipino bakery items, and customers kept asking for more of the freshly made favourites.

After a trip to the Philippines, we purchased our food trailer and expanded into traditional hot dishes alongside baked goods and groceries. Today, customers can find us at local markets, order home delivery, or ask Arcee to cater for their celebration.

Our purpose

Food that connects community.

Our goal is to bring the Filipino community of the Sutherland Shire together through markets, events and the familiar flavours of home.

Come and meet us