Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

HML Foods Corporation, based in Daraga, Albay, Philippines, is a rising player in the local and international food manufacturing sector, specializing in traditional Bicolano cuisine. With a mission to promote regional delicacies to broader markets, HML has successfully transformed homegrown recipes into shelf-stable, export-ready gourmet products under the brand Bicol’s Best.

Core Business

HML Foods Corporation is a food manufacturing and export company focused on producing authentic Filipino dishes in convenient packaging formats. Its operations revolve around crafting ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products that preserve the bold, spicy flavors characteristic of the Bicol Region. The company uses locally sourced ingredients and follows traditional cooking methods adapted for modern food safety and packaging standards.

Product and Service Offerings

Under the flagship Bicol’s Best brand, the company offers a selection of regional delicacies, including:

• Bottled & Packaged Dishes:

  • Bicol Express (Pork) – Spicy pork stew in coconut milk
  • Bicol Express Tinapa – Smoked fish variant of the classic recipe
  • Laing (Regular & Spicy) – Dried taro leaves cooked in rich coconut cream and spices

• Condiments and Sauces:

  • Bicol Chili Paste – A versatile, spicy condiment made from local siling labuyo

• Raw Ingredient Products:

  • Dried Taro Leaves – Packaged for overseas home cooking and restaurant supply

All products are prepared using recipes native to the Bicol Region and processed in compliance with Philippine FDA guidelines to ensure safety and export readiness.

Specialization and Core USP

HML Foods stands out through its unique positioning as a culinary ambassador of Bicolano heritage. The company’s products reflect:

• Authentic regional recipes with no artificial preservatives
• Adaptation of traditional Filipino dishes into export-friendly formats
• Focus on high heat-retort processing for shelf stability

Their ability to package authentic, spicy Filipino dishes in bottled form is a niche yet growing trend in international Filipino food markets.

Financial Performance

While specific revenue figures are confidential, key financial indicators include:

• Growth in export orders, particularly to Canada and Filipino specialty retailers
• Recurring B2B supply relationships with regional stores and food service clients
• DTI support and trade fair exposure, including the International Food Exhibition (IFEX)

Their business expansion has benefited from sustained consumer demand for Filipino ready-to-eat dishes abroad.

Export and Shipment Record

HML Foods has begun to make its mark in international markets. Export and trade records indicate:

• Target Markets: Canada, United Arab Emirates, select U.S. states with large Filipino communities
• Export Products: Bottled Bicol Express, Laing, Chili Paste
• Annual Export Volume: Estimated 10–20 consolidated shipments based on Tridge and buyer directories

Participation in government-led trade promotion programs further supports their export growth.

Target Market

HML Foods targets:

• Overseas Filipino consumers seeking familiar, home-style meals
• Ethnic and specialty grocery stores
• Restaurant suppliers in areas with Filipino cuisine presence
• E-commerce platforms focused on Asian groceries

Their ready-to-eat format and authentic taste provide a unique proposition for convenience-conscious buyers.

Capabilities

• Food Processing Facilities equipped with bottling, sealing, and sterilization systems
• Packaging Lines for dried ingredients and sauces
• R&D for Regional Cuisine to develop new Bicolano dishes in shelf-stable form
• Compliance with DTI and FDA export protocols

The company also works closely with local farmers and suppliers for ingredients like coconut, chili, and taro leaves.

Certifications and Compliance

• FDA Philippines Registered
• DA Supplier Registration
• Participates in DTI export readiness and SME support programs
• Products labeled in accordance with international retail standards

HML continues to strengthen its documentation and compliance to expand into new markets.

Customer Testimonials

Product feedback from diaspora customers and food buyers highlights:

• “Authentic spicy Bicol taste” not found in other mainstream Filipino food brands
• Convenience and long shelf life, especially appreciated in overseas households
• “Nostalgic and comforting” descriptions from Filipino buyers in Canada and the UAE

These testimonials underscore the emotional and cultural value of the products.

Major Achievements

• Established “Bicol’s Best” as a leading bottled food brand from Albay
• Initiated international exports to Canada through consolidated shipments
• Featured in local and national food expos including IFEX Philippines
• Recipient of DTI and regional SME support for product development and trade facilitation

HML Foods Corporation continues to champion Filipino culinary identity through its commitment to authenticity, quality, and innovation—delivering the flavors of Bicol to homes across the world.