DTI Surigao del Sur

26/05/2026

The Story of POKALENG: A Cacao Legacy Rooted in Family and Community Impact

POKALENG began in 2014 from a simple curiosity sparked by a flyer about cacao farming. The business started on a 9-hectare heritage property in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, where the family planted 3,000 cacao trees with the vision of preserving their family legacy through cacao farming.

In 2018, the family began producing tablea, transforming harvested cacao beans into quality chocolate products. Pokaleng Food Products Manufacturing was officially registered with the Department of Trade and Industry on May 18, 2019, marking an important milestone in its formal growth.

What started as a sibling-run family business later became solely owned by Ms. Rosemarie N. Ebol in 2020 and is now managed by her and her husband, “Opok and Aleng.”

Ms. Ebol and her husband are both connected with the Philippine National Police. Despite their full-time duties, they continue to manage the business with strong commitment and discipline. Tablea production is done after duty hours and during weekends, reflecting their dedication and effective time management.

POKALENG also contributes to local livelihood by employing 3 persons for farm maintenance, while the owners’ three children are actively involved in tablea processing, strengthening its identity as a family-centered enterprise.

Today, POKALENG follows a “tree-to-tablea” process. Cacao beans are carefully fermented and UV-dried in Prosperidad to ensure premium quality before being transported to Tandag City for processing in their facility. The production is supported by key equipment such as a roasting machine for developing flavor, a cracker and winnower for separating cacao nibs from shells, and a grinder that processes the nibs into smooth cacao paste used for tablea.

More than a business, POKALENG has become a social enterprise that supports neighboring cacao farmers by purchasing their wet beans at premium prices, helping improve livelihoods and strengthen the local economy.

With plans for a coffee shop by 2027 and the long-term vision of building a chocolate factory in Tandag City, POKALENG continues to represent Surigao del Sur’s agricultural excellence and family-driven entrepreneurship.

Built on hard work, sacrifice, and love, it remains committed to producing high-quality tablea while uplifting its community. The products are available in local stores in Tandag City, and customers can also place orders online through its official page.

DTI Caraga

26/05/2026

When we’re informed, we shop with confidence and protect ourselves from unfair practices. Let’s spread awareness and remind everyone that an educated buyer is always a stronger buyer.

25/05/2026

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through Negosyo Center Tandag, successfully conducted a Business Continuity Plan Awareness Seminar for 30 microenterprises on May 21, 2026, in Barangay Dagocdoc, Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

The participants, who are 2024 beneficiaries of the Livelihood Seeding Program–Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP-NSB), gained essential knowledge on business continuity planning, risk preparedness, and continuity strategies to help sustain their operations during emergencies and unexpected disruptions.

The activity aimed to strengthen the preparedness and resilience of microenterprises in the community. Participants expressed their appreciation to DTI for the timely and relevant seminar and committed to applying the learnings to improve the continuity and resilience of their businesses.

(Text and photos by Ardelyn P. Dahang, NC-Tandag)
DTI Caraga

25/05/2026

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)–Surigao del Sur, through Negosyo Center Bislig, conducted a Store Management Seminar for 30 microenterprise owners, particularly sari-sari store operators, on May 21, 2026, at RAMZ Food and Beverage House in Mangagoy, Bislig City.

The seminar aimed to equip participants with practical knowledge on effective store management, inventory control, customer service, and daily business operations to help improve profitability and business sustainability.

Ms. Rosamea L. Bautista, Senior Trade Industry Development Specialist, also discussed Handling Consumer Complaints as part of DTI’s consumer advocacy campaign to promote awareness of consumer rights and responsibilities.

The activity was conducted in partnership with the Bislig City Chamber of Commerce, led by Engr. Elsie E. Fabilla, who expressed support for DTI’s initiatives in strengthening local MSMEs.

Text and Photos: Meljun V. Empic
DTI Caraga

19/05/2026

The Department of Trade and Industry – Surigao del Sur Provincial Office facilitated the participation of local coconut product producers in the Buy Caraga By Caraga (BCBC): 2026 Coconut Philippines Trade Fair – Balangay Edition, which will run from May 18–24, 2026, at Robinsons Place Butuan.

A total of ten producers from Surigao del Sur are showcasing a variety of coconut-based products, including virgin coconut oil, coconut wine, coconut sauce, condiments, cosmetics, and other coco-based food products.

The BCBC: 2026 Coconut Philippines Trade Fair is a corollary activity of the 2026 Caraga Coconut Festival: Balangay Edition under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) Program, which aims to promote locally made coconut products and support the growth and development of the coconut industry.

DTI Caraga

18/05/2026

Journey of Resilience and Business Transformation: Nice’s Office and School Supplies Trading

Ms. Ricasel L. Lloren, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, began her entrepreneurial journey in 2019 by offering flight and hotel booking services. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic severely affected the travel industry, she courageously shifted her focus to printing services and the sale of office and school supplies to meet the emerging needs of the community. This marked the establishment of Nice’s Office and School Supplies Trading.

To sustain operations during the pandemic, Ms. Lloren introduced practical innovations such as online ordering, cashless payment options, and social media marketing. These strategies enabled the business to continue serving customers despite mobility restrictions and operational challenges. With the support of only two family members at the beginning, the business gradually expanded as operations stabilized.

Along the way, she encountered several difficulties, including supply shortages caused by travel restrictions, limited manpower, and insufficient capital. Despite these challenges, she remained determined and focused on growing her enterprise.

Her entrepreneurial journey was further strengthened through the assistance of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Sur and the local Negosyo Center. Through their support, she was able to participate in various seminars on digital marketing and inventory management, access financial assistance through the P3 CARES loan program, and complete the Kapatid Mentor ME Program, which enhanced her entrepreneurial and business management skills.

Today, Nice’s Office and School Supplies Trading has become a trusted one-stop shop known for quality products and excellent customer service. The business now employs four workers and continuous to support students, small offices, and the local community.

“Let consistency be your superpower,” she shared.

DTI Caraga

12/05/2026

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through Negosyo Center Surigao del Sur, conducted a Store Management Seminar and Orientation on Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) Financing Programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) on May 7, 2026, in Tago, Surigao del Sur.

The seminar provided participants with practical knowledge on effective store management, including product display, inventory control, customer service, and basic financial management to enhance business efficiency and sustainability.

Meanwhile, the SB Corp Provincial Coordinator presented the available financing programs, highlighting the key features, qualifications, requirements, and application procedures to help MSMEs access financial support for business growth and expansion.

Through this initiative, DTI continues its commitment to empowering MSMEs and fostering resilient and competitive businesses in the community.

(Text and photos by Laraville E. Francisco)

DTI Caraga

12/05/2026

12/05/2026

The Department of Trade and Industry – Surigao del Sur, in coordination with the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur, host of this year’s Palarong Pambansa 2026, joins the Palaro TU AgSur 2026 Ethno Village, a selling fair at the Naliyagan Grounds in Brgy. Patin-ay, Prosperidad from May 11–31, 2026. Products from Surigao del Sur, particularly coconut-based products, are being showcased throughout the duration of the event for delegates, athletes, and guests attending the Palarong Pambansa 2026.

The activity is conducted under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan of the Department of Trade and Industry which aims to strengthen the local coconut industry and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for coconut farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises.

The Department of Trade and Industry – Surigao del Sur continues to support local producers by providing them with wider market exposure and opportunities to promote their products to more consumers.

(Text and photos by Leo Froilan M. Duero)

DTI Caraga

11/05/2026

From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Seafood House

Mr. Johnrel L. Martizano, owner of Sugba de Bay in Brgy. Rizal, Barobo, Surigao del Sur, is a true example of how determination and perseverance can transform humble beginnings into meaningful success.

Starting with only a modest amount of capital, he built his business with a simple yet powerful goal—to provide for his family and create something he could truly call his own. However, the journey was far from easy. In the early stages, he faced numerous challenges, particularly in managing the business due to limited knowledge and experience in operations, financial management, and decision-making.

Despite moments of doubt and uncertainty, he remained determined to succeed. A major turning point came when he became part of the Kapatid Mentor ME Program of the Department of Trade and Industry. Through the program, he gained valuable knowledge and practical skills in business management, marketing, and financial planning—tools that helped strengthen and grow Sugba de Bay.

Additional support came when DTI assisted him in accessing financial assistance from Small Business Corporation. With the added capital, he was able to expand operations, improve services, and provide a better dining experience for his customers.
Today, Sugba de Bay continues to grow as a thriving seafood house known for offering both fresh and cooked seafood dishes. Customers can personally choose from a variety of fresh seafood selections, and the restaurant prepares and cooks the meals upon order, ensuring freshness and quality while customers wait.

Behind its success is a story of resilience, continuous learning, and the courage to keep moving forward.

“My story is a testament that with hard work, determination, and the right support, success is possible—even if you start small,” he shared.

DTI Caraga

05/05/2026

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Surigao del Sur, through the Negosyo Center San Agustin, conducted a Financial Management Seminar and an Orientation on Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) Financing Programs on April 30, 2026, in Brgy. Poblacion, Marihatag.

The activity aimed to enhance the financial management skills of MSMEs by introducing practical strategies, including proper recording of business transactions. The SB Corp Provincial Coordinator, Ms. Meriam Linaza, also presented available loan programs, highlighting key features, requirements, and application procedures.

Additionally, Ms. Rhosallee V. Espinoza of the Consumer Protection Division discussed pricing regulations and reinforcing their responsibilities as business owners in maintaining fair trade practices.

Participants actively engaged in the session and expressed appreciation for the practical insights gained to improve their financial practices and business operations.

Text and Photos: April Joy Sipares, Negosy Center-San Agustin

DTI Caraga