Out of the virus context, a baker from Cebu makes a difference as he found space to complete the long-forgotten dough-making of his own.

Marlo Pimentel Lidot saw an opportunity to revive his baking skills when he lost his job opportunity abroad due to the pandemic. As the streets of Cebu shuttered and much of the place businesses were badly hit, he realized he needs to innovate something to retrieve his income. And that’s when he it he discovered the joys of making creative artisan breads.

The global health crisis has motivated the talented baker to stay productive despite months of being under quarantine. Instead of spending his downtime unproductively, Lidot has chosen this hobby as an alternative source of income as well as an outlet for positivity.

Taking on big projects and artistic endeavors is a luxury during the pandemic. Many workers are still on their full-time job yet most people have lost their counterparts and seemingly received a never-ending cycle of bad news. Perhaps, some people have found creative fuel in the chaos of the times, forming new hobbies out of making pastries and style.

“Despite the pandemic, I became more positive and determined to bake hoping to inspire more Cebuanos, especially my fellow bakers to keep going and stay strong,” Lidot stated.

For Lidot, the virus unexpectedly inspired his craft. His bread has largely centered on the human face—contorted images of eyes, noses, and mouths — a subconscious homage that the deadly virus now forbids him to touch.

Under lockdown orders, people are picking up new hobbies to try out. Some resorted to taking care of plants, others focused on fitness, while many turned to learning new skills. For Lindot, it is “painting” popular faces on his baked goods.

For more laminated pastries and customized human features, you may visit his official shop at the Artisan Bread Basket Online Store Facebook page.

Photo Credit: Presidential Communications Office & The Artisan Bread Basket Online Store