Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Ticao Masbate Food Products is a prominent Filipino enterprise specializing in premium bottled sardines under the well-regarded San Jacinto Sardines brand. Originating from San Jacinto, Ticao Island in the province of Masbate, Philippines, the company brings traditional fishing heritage together with modern food processing techniques to produce gourmet sardines appreciated both locally and abroad.

Core Business and Offerings

The company is primarily involved in food manufacturing and food processing, with a specific focus on bottled sardines. Their flagship offerings include:

• San Jacinto Sardines Original Flavor – preserved in corn oil to retain a natural and mild flavor.
• San Jacinto Sardines Mild Hot and Hot – for consumers preferring a spicier profile.
• Other Flavored Variants – experimental gourmet versions incorporating native Filipino ingredients.

These products are carefully processed to meet food safety and quality standards, maintaining a rich flavor profile and extended shelf life.

Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition

Ticao Masbate Food Products sets itself apart through:

• Sourcing Fresh Catch Directly from Local Fishermen – guaranteeing freshness and community support.
• Use of Corn Oil – a healthier alternative to traditional oils, enhancing the taste and nutritional value.
• Handcrafted Bottling Process – ensuring high attention to quality and preserving artisanal methods.

Their products reflect a commitment to sustainability, quality, and local economic development, giving them a competitive edge in the niche market of artisanal seafood products.

Financial Performance

While private and not disclosing comprehensive financial reports publicly, Ticao Masbate Food Products has shown consistent growth through regional distribution in the Philippines and expanding demand from international buyers interested in gourmet Filipino food products. Their participation in food expos such as IFEX Philippines highlights their expanding commercial footprint.

International Shipments

Though specific shipment values are not public, the company has engaged in international exposure through:

• Participation in IFEX Philippines and DOST’s OneSTore platform, aligning with export-ready branding.
• Inclusion in promotional campaigns under Go Lokal! by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), aimed at boosting export reach.

These efforts suggest a targeted approach toward entering regional markets such as Southeast Asia, North America, and Middle East, where demand for gourmet and ethnic food products is growing.

Target Market

The company targets:

• Health-conscious Filipino consumers preferring bottled over canned sardines.
• Overseas Filipino communities seeking authentic Philippine seafood flavors.
• Gourmet retailers and specialty food importers focused on artisanal and ethnic food lines.

Their premium branding allows them to operate in a higher price bracket, catering to discerning customers in both local and international markets.

Capabilities

Ticao Masbate Food Products leverages:

• FDA Philippines Certification – ensuring product safety and market readiness.
• Regional DTI Support and Incubation – under various SME programs.
• Local Ingredient Sourcing and Processing Facilities – reducing supply chain disruptions and improving traceability.

They maintain small to medium batch production allowing quality assurance and flavor consistency.

Certifications and Compliance

• FDA Philippines – Registered and approved for bottled sardines production.
• DTI Go Lokal! Accreditation – Qualified for international promotional campaigns.
• DOST OneSTore Inclusion – Endorsed for national innovation-based e-commerce.

These compliance credentials ensure trustworthiness among buyers and regulators.

Customer Testimonials

While specific testimonials are limited, online reviews such as from The Tennis Foodie have described San Jacinto Sardines as:

"Flavorful and fresh... a far cry from mass-produced sardines, these products offer a balanced texture and authentic Filipino taste."

Such endorsements indicate strong customer appreciation in niche food communities.

Major Achievements

• Featured in IFEX Philippines – the country’s largest international food expo.
• Recognized by DTI and DOST as an emerging local gourmet brand.
• Secured shelf space in Go Lokal! and OneSTore channels – signifying credibility and scalability.

With a strong cultural brand, artisanal appeal, and growing support from national trade institutions, Ticao Masbate Food Products is steadily rising as a premium player in the Filipino gourmet food space.