Negosyo Center - Surigao City

26/05/2026

25/05/2026

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐊𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐨

Meet Gelma Joy Y. Roculas, the owner of Kabayan Siargao Restaurant, a humble yet beloved Filipino dining place nestled in the peaceful municipality of San Benito, Northern Siargao, where community, culture, and simplicity flourish. Established in 2019, Kabayan Siargao gradually captured the hearts of both locals and tourists through its authentic Filipino dishes and genuine hospitality, drawing inspiration from the owner’s aunt’s successful Filipino restaurant in West Palm Beach, Florida, as well as from the word “kabayan,” meaning fellow Filipino or countryman. More than just a business name, Kabayan reflects a deeper mission—to create a warm and welcoming space where people can gather, build connections, and experience the comforting flavors of home through Filipino cuisine.

From the very beginning, Kabayan Siargao Restaurant operated with humble resources but a strong passion for serving quality and affordable Filipino dishes. Managed solely by Ms. Gelma and her husband during its early years, the restaurant relied heavily on hard work, determination, and teamwork. Her husband served as the main cook while they both handled daily operations together, ensuring every meal was prepared with care and every customer felt at home.

Despite the challenges of running a small business, the couple remained committed to preserving Filipino culinary traditions through beloved dishes such as chicken inasal, sizzling sisig, pancit guisado, halo-halo, and other Filipino comfort food favorites.

As the business gradually gained recognition, Kabayan Siargao faced the common struggles experienced by many micro enterprises. Expanding market reach, improving operational efficiency, and increasing production capacity while maintaining food quality and affordability became major challenges. Yet instead of allowing these difficulties to hinder their growth, the owners used them as motivation to improve and strengthen the business further.

A significant turning point came when the business connected with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program. Through mentorship, entrepreneurial training, and strategic business planning, the program helped the owner develop stronger management skills and a clearer vision for Kabayan Siargao’s future. One of the most impactful achievements during the program was the creation of a strategic and comprehensive Business Improvement Plan, which later earned recognition for Excellence in Business Improvement Plan. The knowledge and guidance gained from KMME strengthened the restaurant’s financial management, operational systems, decision-making, and long-term sustainability strategies.

With improved confidence and business direction, Kabayan Siargao Restaurant steadily evolved from a simple husband-and-wife-run eatery into one of Northern Siargao’s growing Filipino dining destinations. In 2023, the restaurant expanded its seating capacity and enhanced its menu offerings to accommodate more customers, larger family gatherings, and private events. This expansion also improved service efficiency and increased the restaurant’s ability to cater to both local families and visiting tourists seeking authentic Filipino comfort food in a relaxing alfresco environment. Over time, the business built a loyal customer base and strengthened its reputation for quality food, friendly service, and a homey atmosphere that keeps guests coming back.

Beyond business growth, Kabayan Siargao Restaurant also became a source of livelihood and community support in San Benito. From being operated solely by the owners, the restaurant eventually grew into a small team with additional employees assisting in kitchen and customer service operations. By sourcing ingredients from nearby suppliers and continuously supporting local products, the business contributes to the local economy while promoting Filipino culture through food. As a woman entrepreneur, the owner also hopes to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs—especially women—to pursue their dreams despite limited beginnings or challenges along the way.

Today, Kabayan Siargao Restaurant continues to grow with a vision of becoming one of Northern Siargao’s leading Filipino restaurants. Guided by resilience, passion, and the lessons gained through the KMME Program, the business remains committed to delivering excellent customer service, maintaining food quality, and strengthening its connection with the community. In the next few years, the owners aspire to further expand operations, increase seating capacity, improve customer experience, and possibly open another branch within or beyond Northern Siargao.

More than just a restaurant, Kabayan Siargao Restaurant stands as a story of perseverance, family, culture, and shared dreams—a reminder that even the simplest beginnings can grow into something meaningful through hard work, dedication, and the support of the community.

18/05/2026

𝐀 𝐂𝐮𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞: 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐣𝐚 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐨

At the heart of Del Carmen (Poblacion), tucked along Sto. Niño Street, stands a modest café with an outsized story. This is Deja Brew Siargao Café, and behind it is Ms. Caryl Jeanne C. Uba, a young entrepreneur who dared to open her doors when uncertainty loomed larger than opportunity.

Three years ago, at only 25, Ms. Uba took her leap of faith. While milk tea was enjoying its moment as the trend of the time, she chose a quieter, more personal path—coffee. Not just as a product, but as an experience. She believed in the ritual: the scent of freshly ground beans, the patience of brewing, and the unspoken comforts found in lingering over a warm cup. It was a choice rooted not in market noise, but in passion.

What makes Deja Brew’s story compelling is not merely its beginning, but its timing. The café opened its doors just seven months after a devastating typhoon, and while the community was still navigating the aftershocks of the pandemic. Many would have waited for “better conditions.” Ms. Uba chose to begin anyway. In doing so, she embodied a hard-earned truth of entrepreneurship: there is no perfect moment—only the courage to start.

With limited capital and no shortcuts, she committed herself to learning the craft from the ground up. Coffee became both her teacher and her test. She studied ratios, practiced consistency, and spent countless hours refining recipes—sometimes pulling late nights fueled by back-to-back espresso shots in pursuit of balance and quality. Every cup served carried the weight of that dedication.

The road, as expected, was not smooth. There were slow days when doubts crept in, and moments when continuing seemed harder than closing shop. Yet, the café opened every day. What sustained her were the small but powerful affirmations—a regular customer’s smile, a sincere “salamat,” a quiet corner moment enjoyed by someone who simply needed to pause. These were reminders that Deja Brew had become more than a business; it had become a place of comfort and connection.

Crucial to this growth was the support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Surigao del Norte, whose interventions helped sharpen Ms. Uba’s entrepreneurial vision. Through DTI’s guidance, trainings, and mentorship opportunities, she gained not just technical knowledge, but confidence in steering her enterprise forward. Her participation in the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program marked a turning point. Officially joining the program on May 29, 2025, she was exposed to seasoned mentors who challenged her to think bigger, plan smarter, and sustain growth.

This journey culminated on September 15, 2025, in Butuan City, when Ms. Uba was recognized as one of the Excellent Presenters of the Business Improvement Plan (BIP)—a testament not only to her hard work, but also to how DTI continues to empower local entrepreneurs through structured support, capacity building, and access to opportunities.

Today, Deja Brew Siargao Café stands as a quiet symbol of resilience—proof that small businesses can thrive even when born in difficult times, especially when backed by passion, perseverance, and the right institutional support.

To aspiring business owners, Ms. Uba’s story offers a simple but powerful message: start with what you have, learn relentlessly, and do not be afraid to seek guidance. With programs like those of DTI, dreams are not only encouraged—they are nurtured.

Because behind every small café is a story worth telling. And sometimes, the smallest cup of coffee can hold the biggest dream.

11/05/2026

𝐀𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐁𝐁𝐐

Meet Ms. Ena C. Dolar, the owner of Epiphany Resto Grill situated at Brgy. T. Arlan, Sta. Monica, Surigao del Norte.

In 2010, what began as a simple effort to help sell homemade kakanin slowly blossomed into a thriving food enterprise that now serves communities across Siargao Island. From those modest beginnings grew Epiphany Resto Grill, a respected resto grill and catering service trusted by the local government and many residents of Santa Monica, Surigao del Norte.

As a child, Ms. Ena never imagined herself in the food or catering industry. Her role was simply to help her mother ensure that every batch of kakanin was sold and enjoyed. Those early experiences, though unplanned, quietly instilled values of discipline, responsibility, and hard work—values that would later shape her entrepreneurial journey.

She pursued higher education and graduated with a degree in Physical Therapy from Fatima University, carrying dreams of building a professional career in Manila and eventually working abroad to support her family. Although she completed her degree, she was unable to obtain a professional license. Life soon took an unexpected turn when her father fell ill, prompting her return to Barangay Mabuhay, Santa Monica, to care for her parents. Faced with new responsibilities, she made a difficult but purposeful decision—to remain close to home and create a source of livelihood grounded in family tradition.

Drawing from her mother’s skill in making kakanin, she began selling local delicacies to support her family. Over time, this small operation evolved into Epiphany Resto Grill BBQ, expanding its offerings beyond rice delicacies to grilled dishes and full catering services. A defining breakthrough came when former Santa Monica Mayor Penera became a regular client and encouraged her to pursue catering opportunities. By 2011, Epiphany Resto Grill BBQ had become a consistent food supplier for local government programs and activities, marking a significant milestone in its growth.

The business was made possible through strong family support. Her siblings provided an initial capital of ₱120,000, which funded the construction of the dining area and the purchase of essential equipment. This investment not only allowed her to launch the business but also enabled her to remain hands on in caring for their parents.

Like many MSMEs, the journey was not without challenges. Limited capital tested the early stages of the business, and years later, the COVID 19 pandemic posed serious operational difficulties—from sourcing raw materials to managing staff and sustaining daily operations. Yet even in crisis, Epiphany Resto Grill BBQ found purpose. The business became a dependable food supplier for Santa Monica LGU frontliners, providing meals during a time when support was most needed. The experience strengthened the business’s reputation for reliability, resilience, and service.

Despite having no formal training in the food or catering industry, the owner refused to let her background limit her progress. She embraced continuous learning through online research and tutorials, particularly via digital platforms such as YouTube. Careful menu planning, strategic sourcing, and disciplined canvassing of suppliers ensured quality was maintained while managing costs.

From handling single events in its early years, Epiphany Resto Grill BBQ has grown steadily. Today, it can cater up to four events at the same time, even across different municipalities—evidence of improved systems, trained staff, and efficient logistics. The owner attributes this success to skills she steadily developed over time: time management, people and operations management, emotional intelligence, and sound financial control.

To aspiring caterers and entrepreneurs, she emphasizes the importance of punctuality, dependable staff, clear goals, and careful planning. For her, consistency and integrity are just as important as good food.

While her childhood dream once involved working abroad as a physical therapist, her vision has transformed. Today, her aspiration is to further expand Epiphany Resto Grill BBQ, particularly in catering weddings and large celebrations across the region, while continuing to secure a stable future for her family.

From selling homemade kakanin to managing a full service resto grill and catering enterprise, Epiphany Resto Grill BBQ stands as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of family support. It is a story of how unexpected paths, when met with humility, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, can lead to lasting success.

08/05/2026

𝐓𝐈𝐊𝐌𝐀𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐆𝐀𝐑𝐁𝐎 𝐍𝐀𝐍 𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐎!

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Sugod na at maranasan ang tunay na crunchiness ng Surigao! 🏃‍♂️💨

07/05/2026

𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐑 𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐓‼ 👀

Are you an MSME looking for practical financial solutions and access to funding opportunities? This is your chance to connect directly with trusted financial institutions and gain insights to strengthen your business!

What :𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗨𝗠 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗠𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀: 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
📅 Date: May 20, 2026
🕗 Time: 8:30 AM – 12:00 NN
📍 Venue: DTI-SDN Provincial Office, 2nd Floor, Simtoco Bldg., Burgos Street, Surigao City
💡 What to Expect:
✔ Financial solutions tailored for MSMEs
✔ Loan and financing opportunities
✔ Expert insights and practical business tips
✔ One-on-one consultation with financial institutions
🏦 Participating Financial Institutions:
• BDO Network Bank
• Tagum Cooperative
• Surigao Economic Development and Microfinance Foundation, Inc. (SEDMFI)
• Small Business Corporation
⚠️ LIMITED SLOTS ONLY!
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore various loan products and financing options that can help your business grow and become more resilient.
👉 Register now: https://forms.gle/pNTxmxoSCSp1tL5D6
📣 Open to all MSMEs in Surigao del Norte!
Be informed. Get connected. Grow stronger.
For inquiries, please contact:
09206646003 or 826 2373

04/05/2026

𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬: 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚 𝐄𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲’𝐬 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞

Meet Ms. Maria Rosemin Begornia, the dedicated owner of Bergonia Eatery—a humble food business built not only to earn a living, but to create a better future for the next generation. Located in Brgy. Hayanggabon, Claver, Surigao del Norte, the eatery has long been a source of comfort and nourishment for the local community.

Established in 1998, Bergonia Eatery began as a small venture fueled by determination, hard work, and a parent’s deep love for her children. With limited resources but unwavering commitment, Ms. Begornia worked tirelessly to serve affordable, home cooked meals to the community, turning simple dishes into sources of comfort and sustenance.

Over the years, the eatery grew into a trusted dining place for many, especially regular employees from nearby mining companies who found satisfaction in its consistent, budget friendly, and hearty meals. These loyal customers became the backbone of the business—continuously supporting and tangkilik ing Bergonia Eatery through the years.

More than just a place that serves food, Bergonia Eatery represents sacrifice, perseverance, and hope. Every dish prepared tells a story of hard work and a dream of giving children a life filled with opportunities and a brighter tomorrow.

Ms. Begornia’s passion for growth and learning led her to become a graduate of the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)—an experience that strengthened her entrepreneurial skills and enhanced her vision for the business. She is also an assisted MSME of the DTI Negosyo Center–Claver, where she continues to receive guidance and support to further sustain and improve her enterprise.

Through challenges and changing times, Bergonia Eatery continues to stand strong—a testament that success is not built overnight, but through years of dedication, resilience, and purpose.

Today, Bergonia Eatery is more than just an eatery. It is a powerful symbol of love, perseverance, and a parent’s dream—nurtured through hard work and turned into reality.