07/03/2025
๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฌ๐ฉ๐ฒ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฆ๐ฌ: ๐๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐ค๐ฎ'๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐ข๐๐ก๐๐ซ๐จ๐ง ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐จ๐๐ค ๐๐ซ๐จ๐๐ข๐ญ๐๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ฌ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐
In the Province of Isabela, where vast fields of corn and rice stretch towards the horizon, a different kind of harvest is taking place. It's not grain, but the golden, crackling goodness of chicharon, specifically Yangku's special chicharon.
Behind this local delicacy are Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth and Joan Tangonan, a couple whose hobby blossomed into a thriving business, perfectly illustrating the profitability and potential of the region's livestock industry.
Yangku's story began in 2020, a time of uncertainty for many. Like countless others, Kenneth and Joan sought a creative outlet, turning their passion for cooking into a small-scale venture.
What started with a modest 10 kilograms of pork skin, cooked in their kitchen, has now expanded to a bustling operation, necessitating the importation of 50 kilograms of pork skin from Manila. They now consistently cook 5 kilograms of pork skin every day.
The secret to Yangku's success lies not just in the quality of the pork skin, but in the meticulous process and the unique flavor they've perfected. "We focus on achieving that perfect balance of crispiness and flavor," explains Joan. "It's about understanding the nuances of the cooking process, from the initial preparation to the final fry."
The demand for Yangku's chicharon quickly outgrew their home kitchen, leading them to open a branch in Cabatuan, Isabela. This expansion showcases the strength of the local market and the growing appetite for high-quality, locally produced goods.
"Maganda ang kita kahit hindi peak season. Naicocover niya lahat ng gastusin namin. Maging sa luho at sa pasahod namin sa aming worker," shares Mrs. Tangonan, her eyes gleaming with pride.
This statement encapsulates the profitability of the livestock industry in Isabela, a region known for its rich agricultural resources.
By sourcing high-quality pork skin from Manila, they've demonstrated the importance of a strong supply chain. Their efficient processing and unique recipe add value to the raw material, transforming it into a premium product.
Furthermore, their success is a testament to effective marketing.
Word-of-mouth recommendations, coupled with strategic local promotions, have propelled Yangku's chicharon to become a local favorite.
They've tapped into the community's love for traditional snacks, offering a product that resonates with local tastes. The Tangonan's story is a microcosm of the potential within Isabela's livestock sector.
The region's abundant resources, coupled with entrepreneurial spirit, create a fertile ground for businesses like Yangku's.
The profitability of their chicharon venture underscores the economic benefits that can be derived from value-added processing and effective marketing. Beyond the immediate financial gains, Yangku's success contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting related industries.
The demand for pork skin, for instance, benefits suppliers in Manila, while the retail operation provides employment opportunities in Cauayan and Cabatuan. Yangku's chicharon is more than just a snack; it's a symbol of the entrepreneurial spirit and the economic potential of Isabela's livestock industry.
As Kenneth and Joan continue to expand their business, they serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with passion, dedication, and a deep understanding of the market, even a humble hobby can transform into a crispy, golden success story.
Via Manases "Chito" Lacambra
