Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Cormel Foods is a local food manufacturing company based in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. Known for producing authentic Ilocano vinegar and wine products, Cormel Foods has carved a niche in the regional and export markets by focusing on heritage Filipino products made from sugarcane and indigenous fruits. The company plays a vital role in preserving traditional fermentation practices while serving a growing demand for natural, artisanal food and beverage products.

Core Business and Objectives

Cormel Foods specializes in the production of native Filipino fermented products and delicacies. Its mission is to champion the Ilocano food heritage by producing natural, high-quality food products using traditional techniques that reflect the culture and flavors of Northern Luzon. The company aims to expand its reach both domestically and internationally through innovation rooted in tradition.

Product and Service Offerings

Cormel Foods offers a curated product line that emphasizes fermentation and traditional Ilocano culinary craftsmanship:

• Vinegars:
  • Sukang Iloko: A naturally fermented sugarcane vinegar known for its strong acidic flavor and dark hue.
• Wines:
  • Basi: A traditional sugarcane wine aged in earthen jars, a cultural staple in Ilocos.
  • Fruit Wines: Duhat (Java plum) wine and mango wine, known for their rich aroma and distinct sweetness.
• Ilocano Delicacies:
  • Dried Ilocos Empanadas: A preserved form of the iconic local delicacy.
  • Bacon Bagnet: A unique twist on the traditional Ilocano deep-fried pork belly, combining crispness with smoky flavors.

These products are distributed through specialty food retailers, local trade fairs, and regional agri-trade expos.

Specialization and Core USP

Cormel Foods’ specialization lies in natural fermentation and the revival of traditional Ilocano food technologies. Its core USPs include:

• Heritage Techniques: Uses ancestral fermentation methods for its basi and vinegar production.
• Local Sourcing: All raw materials such as sugarcane and duhat are locally sourced from Ilocos Norte, supporting sustainable community farming.
• Artisanal Processing: Low-scale, high-quality batches ensure consistency and authenticity.

Financials

As a micro-enterprise operating in a regional food processing hub, Cormel Foods’ financials are not publicly disclosed. Based on local benchmarks for niche artisanal producers in Ilocos:

• Estimated Annual Revenue: PHP 2–5 million
• Primary Sales Channels: Direct sales, regional trade expos, and consignment through specialty stores

Shipment and International Exposure

Cormel Foods is engaged in small-scale exports primarily targeting Filipino communities abroad. According to trade data and local government reports:

• Export Reach: Products have been showcased in international trade fairs such as the IFEX Philippines and DTI-led events in Japan and the U.S.
• Top Export Products: Basi wine and Sukang Iloko
• Distribution Partners: OFW community stores and ethnic food outlets

Target Market

• Ethnic and Specialty Food Retailers
• Filipino Diaspora Markets
• Tourism-Linked Retail Outlets
• Gourmet and Artisanal Food Collectors

Capabilities

• Traditional Fermentation Facilities: Equipped for small-batch vinegar and wine production.
• Product Development: Capability to explore new flavors and expand into gourmet food categories.
• Packaging and Branding: Uses culturally themed packaging that highlights Ilocano heritage.

Certifications and Compliance

Cormel Foods adheres to local food manufacturing standards and safety protocols. As a regional food processor, it is supported by:

• Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
• Department of Science and Technology (DOST) OneSTore Program
• Local FDA Certification Pending for Wider Retail Distribution

Customer Testimonials

• "Cormel’s Sukang Iloko is the most authentic vinegar you can get. It's a staple in our family recipes." — Local restaurant chef, Ilocos Norte
• "Their Basi wine has become a hit at our Filipino-themed events in California." — Overseas distributor

Major Achievements

• Featured at the IFEX Philippines trade fair, showcasing regional specialties to international buyers.
• Recipient of DTI and LGU support for small enterprise development.
• Gained recognition through social media and community engagement with consistent feedback for authenticity and taste.

Cormel Foods continues to push the boundaries of regional Filipino cuisine by blending tradition with market-savvy innovation, championing Ilocano flavors on the global stage.