Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Fire Star Dream Concoctions is a dynamic Filipino food manufacturer based in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, best known for its artisanal condiment brand "Shiga." The company focuses on small-batch, premium-quality chili sauces, fermented vinegars, and spice blends that celebrate the flavors of Mindanao. Founded and led by Estrella T. Borja, Fire Star Dream Concoctions merges traditional culinary knowledge with modern food safety standards to offer distinctive, export-ready products.

Company Background

Fire Star Dream Concoctions was established as a grassroots food innovation business that draws on rich culinary traditions of Northern Mindanao. The founder, Estrella T. Borja, developed the signature "Shiga Chili & Garlic Sauce" and "Sakurab-Palapa in Olive Oil" as a response to increasing demand for unique, locally sourced condiments that reflect the cultural and agricultural identity of the region.

What began as a passion project has evolved into a recognized brand with growing traction in both local markets and international food exhibitions.

Core Business and Product Offerings

Fire Star Dream Concoctions offers a curated line of artisanal food products:

1. Condiments & Sauces

• Shiga Chili & Garlic Sauce – A spicy, aromatic blend using Mindanao-grown chilies and garlic, noted for its balance of heat and umami
• Sakurab‑Palapa in Olive Oil – A Maranao-inspired condiment made with sakurab (native scallion), chili, and ginger, preserved in high-grade olive oil

2. Vinegars

• Raw Coconut Vinegar – Naturally fermented and unfiltered, used for dipping sauces and marinades
• Aged Coconut Vinegar – Matured over time for deeper flavor complexity and acidity control

3. Cereals & Food Ingredients

• Mindanao Spices and Herb Mixes – Custom blends featuring turmeric, ginger, sakurab, and chili, tailored for home and restaurant use

These products are formulated without artificial preservatives and aim to highlight Filipino culinary heritage in a format that appeals to both traditional and modern palates.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Fire Star Dream Concoctions distinguishes itself through:

• Use of indigenous ingredients sourced directly from smallholder farmers in Mindanao
• Handcrafted production process ensuring consistency and authenticity
• Cultural storytelling through food, promoting Maranao and Mindanaoan culinary identities
• Low MOQ (minimum order quantity) for export clients seeking niche food products

Target Market

The company targets:

• Ethnic and gourmet food stores
• Restaurants and cafes focused on Southeast Asian cuisine
• Online artisan food platforms
• Exporters and consolidators of Philippine specialty foods

Primary customer bases include Metro Manila, Visayas, and international buyers interested in Southeast Asian condiments.

Capabilities

Despite being a micro-enterprise, Fire Star Dream Concoctions exhibits:

• GMP-aligned production processes
• Custom recipe development
• Direct-to-consumer and wholesale order fulfillment
• Basic export packaging and documentation

The company leverages Facebook and YouTube for direct marketing and brand education.

Financial Overview

As a micro-business, financial figures are modest but stable:

• Estimated annual revenue of PHP 500,000–1.5 million
• Sustained by repeat buyers and growing export interest
• Active participation in DTI and CITEM-supported trade shows has enhanced its revenue channels

Shipment and Trade Data

Fire Star Dream Concoctions is classified as a direct exporter with shipment data showing:

• Initial trial shipments to Japan and UAE markets
• Average export volume: 100–200 jars per consignment
• Participation in IFEX and Go Lokal initiatives for global exposure

Certifications and Compliance

The company maintains:

• FDA product registration for chili sauces and vinegars
• Packaging and labelling standards in compliance with export norms
• Pending certifications for Halal and organic sourcing to appeal to wider markets

Customer Testimonials

“The Shiga Chili & Garlic Sauce has become a staple in our kitchen—bold, flavorful, and proudly local.”
— Chef-entrepreneur, Cagayan de Oro

“We showcased Shiga in our Filipino food gift sets abroad and received rave reviews from international buyers.”
— Local Export Consolidator

Achievements

• Launched the Shiga brand nationally via DTI Go Lokal and regional trade events
• Featured in artisanal food expos and fairs including IFEX Philippines
• Developed innovative regional condiments previously unavailable in national markets
• Recognized as a rising social enterprise promoting Mindanao agricultural products

Fire Star Dream Concoctions exemplifies the potential of small-scale food entrepreneurship in elevating indigenous ingredients to premium export-ready products. With continued innovation and community-based sourcing, the company is poised to represent the flavors of Mindanao on the global stage.