During some time in 2016, I became active in participating in independent publications that I personally helped start with fellow Philippine history enthusiasts. We wrote, drew, and created content for free for the people interested in the same things. Because I was part of our school newspaper back in high school, I had some starting experience regarding publishing. I did the layout of our newsletter and edited most of the articles.

Being interested in local culture and history reignited my interest in publication and design. And so under the guidance of John Arcilla, Laya! was born.