Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Seabeth Food Processing, operating under the celebrated brand Mang Kiko’s Cacao, is a homegrown Filipino enterprise based in Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental. It specializes in the production of artisanal cacao-based products and has emerged as a standout name in the local craft chocolate scene. Known for its authentic Tablea and innovative cacao offerings, the company emphasizes tradition, sustainability, and community involvement.

Brief History

Founded by Dra. Sandy Sia, Seabeth Food Processing was born out of a passion for Philippine cacao and a vision to uplift local cacao farmers. Named in honor of her father, the brand Mang Kiko’s Cacao reflects the family’s commitment to traditional Filipino chocolate-making techniques while infusing contemporary innovation. From humble roots, the company has grown steadily, reaching customers both domestically and internationally.

Core Business

Seabeth Food Processing focuses on the artisanal processing of cacao into high-quality products. It sources raw cacao beans directly from smallholder farmers in Northern Mindanao, processes them locally, and transforms them into premium chocolate products. Its operations cover everything from cacao fermentation and drying to grinding and packaging.

Product and Service Offerings

• Tablea (Cacao Tablets) – Pure ground cacao formed into discs used in traditional Filipino hot chocolate (tsokolate)
• Chocolate Liquor – A unique, brandy-infused cacao liquor offering a fusion of bold chocolate flavor and premium alcohol
• Homemade Ice Cream – Artisanal ice cream made using Mang Kiko’s Tablea as a primary flavoring ingredient
• Ube Mango Biko – A sticky rice dessert with rich Filipino ingredients, combining purple yam and ripe mango

Specialisation and Core USP

Mang Kiko’s Cacao products are distinguished by:

• Use of locally grown, single-origin cacao
• Traditional processing methods, including hand-roasting and stone-grinding
• Flavor innovation, such as the brandy-infused chocolate liquor
• Sustainable and ethical sourcing, benefiting local farming communities

The brand bridges Filipino chocolate heritage with global craft chocolate trends, offering products that appeal to both nostalgic and adventurous palates.

Financial Overview

While financial specifics remain confidential, Mang Kiko’s Cacao shows clear growth indicators:

• Featured in local government trade promotions and DTI expos
• Retail sales through online platforms, local markets, and food expos
• Collaborations with regional tourism and food festivals boost visibility and sales

Its premium pricing, coupled with niche positioning, allows for high-value transactions and profitability even in small batch operations.

Shipment Data

Initial small-scale exports have been made possible through local trade partnerships and special orders:

• Limited shipments to Filipino communities in the U.S. and Middle East
• Supported by DTI Region 10 export assistance programs
• Products comply with basic packaging and food labeling standards for international markets

While export volume remains modest, growing interest in premium cacao globally positions Mang Kiko’s for scalable international reach.

Target Market

• Health-conscious and artisanal chocolate consumers
• Local and international buyers seeking authentic Filipino cacao products
• Pasalubong centers, specialty food stores, and hotels
• Filipino diaspora communities looking for traditional treats with a modern twist

Capabilities

• Cacao Sourcing: Partnerships with Mindanao cacao farmers ensure fresh and ethical supply
• Craft Production: Hands-on manufacturing preserving traditional methods
• Innovation: Product development integrating chocolate with Filipino desserts and beverages
• Community Integration: Job creation and training within local communities

Certifications and Compliance

• Registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
• FDA-compliant for food production and packaging
• Participates in local food safety training programs to ensure product quality

Customer Testimonials

“The tablea makes the richest, most comforting tsokolate I’ve ever had. You can taste the love in every sip.” — Food fair visitor, Cagayan de Oro

“Mang Kiko’s Chocolate Liquor is a genius creation. A perfect gift and a conversation starter at parties.” — Boutique food reseller, Manila

Major Achievements

• Featured in DTI Misamis Oriental’s promotional campaigns for artisanal food products
• Gained media attention through local news features and government-sponsored expos
• Product demonstration videos and brand stories shared via social media and community events
• Established a loyal local customer base and steadily expanding reach through digital platforms

Seabeth Food Processing, through Mang Kiko’s Cacao, continues to enrich the local cacao industry by turning heritage, heart, and homegrown flavor into world-class chocolate experiences.