Chocolate is more than just a sweet treat—it represents hope and opportunity for Edison Caoile, a former overseas worker (OFW) from Lingayen, Pangasinan, who returned home and founded Chocomaker.ph.
Caoile worked as a pastry chef specializing in chocolate-making in the Middle East for 12 years before deciding it was time to come home.
Determined to create world-class chocolate products using locally sourced ingredients, he started his own home-based business.
While Caoile focuses on crafting chocolates, his wife handles the packaging, ensuring each product is wrapped with care.
With his expertise in turning cacao beans into delicious treats—from chocolate-flavored polvoron, spreads, and pure tablea to cakes and other goodies—Caoile found a sweet spot in Pangasinan’s growing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sector.
“We have an abundance of cacao beans here in the Philippines, so I saw the potential to create a high-quality, Filipino-made product that can compete with others,” Caoile told the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) – Pangasinan.
Overcoming challenges
Despite the strong demand for chocolate products, Caoile faced a major challenge: the inconsistent supply of cacao beans, as large corporations buy in bulk.
Determined to succeed, he sought government support through programs that empower MSMEs.
With the help of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pangasinan, he registered his products and secured a patent, ensuring his brand’s legitimacy and market competitiveness.
“DTI assisted us with our product label registration and patenting. Now we have a license that is [valid] for 10 years,” Caoile said.
Through DTI-organized trade fairs and the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) ‘Kadiwa ng Pangulo’ program, Caoile was able to showcase and sell his products directly to consumers.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) also supported his business, guiding him in applying for a license to operate and understanding nutrition facts labeling.
“Government programs are a huge help. Having this kind of support is a big deal for small entrepreneurs like us,” he said, expressing gratitude to the government’s comprehensive assistance that helped his business.
A growing business
Currently, Chocomaker.ph sells its products through Kadiwa ng Pangulo and DTI trade fairs, but customers can also order through their Facebook page or visit their store in Lingayen, Pangasinan.
Today, Chocomaker.ph continues to thrive, providing a sustainable livelihood for Caoile’s family while inspiring other returning OFWs to explore business opportunities back home.
For him, every cacao bean he grinds is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and government support, local entrepreneurs can grow their businesses and create world-class products—proudly made in Lingayen. (CCMT/EMSA/MTR, PIA Pangasinan)
