Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Merl's Native Delicacies is a proudly Filipino food enterprise rooted in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. Established and managed by Merlita Bolus, the company has become a hallmark of authenticity and quality in the local pasalubong industry. With a focus on traditional Filipino kakanin (rice-based delicacies) and regional sweet products, Merl’s has cultivated a loyal customer base across MIMAROPA and beyond.

Core Business and Product Portfolio

Merl's Native Delicacies specializes in crafting homemade, all-natural Filipino delicacies, particularly:

• Suman sa Lihiya: A glutinous rice delicacy wrapped in banana leaves, cooked in lye water, and served with sweet syrup or grated coconut. This product has gained regional acclaim for its consistency, texture, and traditional preparation.

• Coconut Jam (Coco Jam): A rich and thick jam made from coconut milk and brown sugar, available in 230 g, 350 g, and 500 g jars. It is known for its depth of flavor and long shelf life, making it a popular pasalubong item.

These products are handcrafted using locally sourced ingredients, promoting sustainable agriculture and supporting the coconut farming community of Oriental Mindoro.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Merl’s USP lies in:

• Authenticity: Traditional recipes preserved and passed through generations, offering genuine Filipino taste.
• Quality & Freshness: Products are made in small batches to maintain flavor integrity and ensure freshness.
• Community Empowerment: Employs locals and supports small-scale farmers in Mindoro.

Merl’s is often featured in regional expos and national trade fairs as a representative of Mindoro’s cultural and culinary identity.

Financial and Operational Strength

As a micro to small enterprise (SME), Merl’s operates with a strong focus on regional supply and demand. The company’s operational capacity includes:

• Regular supply partnerships with local pasalubong centers in Calapan and other towns in Oriental Mindoro.
• Distribution through direct orders and events such as the 35th Philippine Travel Mart.
• Estimated annual production of over 10,000 units of Suman and Coco Jam combined, based on regional market participation.

The company also benefits from DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) support under the One Town, One Product (OTOP) initiative, which helps enhance its packaging, marketing, and distribution.

Shipment and Market Reach

While Merl’s Native Delicacies is primarily a regional brand, its products reach markets across:

• Luzon, especially Metro Manila through trade events and weekend bazaars.
• Pasalubong centers and tourist destinations in MIMAROPA.
• Custom orders for OFWs and Filipino communities abroad, although no formal international export logistics are yet in place.

The brand is actively exploring opportunities to formalize and expand its reach through third-party logistics and e-commerce.

Target Market

Merl’s products appeal to:

• Domestic travelers and tourists seeking authentic pasalubong.
• Urban consumers looking for traditional sweets and snacks.
• Filipino expatriates and balikbayans with nostalgic ties to native delicacies.

Certifications and Compliance

The company complies with local food safety and production standards, including:

• Barangay Food Handler Permits
• Sanitation Certificates from the Calapan City Health Office
• Ongoing initiatives to align with FDA registration requirements for broader commercialization

Participation in DTI and DOST programs also supports its compliance and product development activities.

Customer Testimonials

Customers praise Merl’s for:

• Excellent taste and texture of Suman sa Lihiya, often compared favorably to home-cooked versions.
• The smooth consistency and richness of the Coco Jam, with just the right level of sweetness.
• Affordable pricing and generous portion sizes, making the products excellent for gifts and family consumption.

Notable Achievements

• Official participant at the 35th Philippine Travel Mart, representing Oriental Mindoro.
• Featured in regional SME showcases by DTI-MIMAROPA and local tourism bodies.
• A recognized name in the One Town, One Product (OTOP) initiative in Oriental Mindoro.

Merl’s Native Delicacies stands as a testament to Filipino culinary heritage, blending tradition, community, and quality to deliver products that resonate with cultural pride and homegrown excellence.