Shout out to all vinegar and dipping sauce lovers! In the quiet town of Luna, La Union, a sour yet sensational story is brewing—one that combines flavor, culture, and entrepreneurship. What started as a small business venture with just a modest capital has now become a high-tech vinegar production hub, delighting both taste buds and local livelihoods.
From Simple Roots to a Spicy Venture
Welcome to the home of Sukang Iloko, a best-selling local vinegar made from fermented sugarcane juice. This well-loved condiment isn’t just a staple in Filipino kitchens—it’s the heart of a thriving business led by entrepreneur Uncle Tom, who’s made it his mission to bottle the taste of home.
To make things even more exciting, Uncle Tom and a GMA Sparkle artist recently took on a “No Reaction Challenge”, trying out three levels of spiced vinegar—from mild to wildly hot—paired with crunchy chicharon. The goal? To taste the sauces without flinching. And yes, it was harder than it looked!
A Taste of Home, A Taste of Legacy
What makes Sukang Iloko unique is its blend of locally sourced ingredients. With sugarcane and siling labuyo (wild chili) grown abundantly in the region, Uncle Tom saw an opportunity: use what’s around you to create something extraordinary. The product line eventually expanded beyond traditional vinegar to include spicy and turmeric-infused variants, each telling a story of innovation grounded in heritage.
But before he became a vinegar mogul, Uncle Tom and his wife spent years as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Jeddah. Their dream was always to return and start a business of their own. And they did—just one month after coming home.
Their first venture? Rice trading. That soon grew into a farm supply store, which gave them a valuable network among local farmers. In 2009, Uncle Tom bought his first two containers of sugarcane vinegar from a farmer. When those sold out, he doubled his stock. What began as a ₱500 profit snowballed into a sustainable livelihood.
Scaling Up with Passion and Purpose
Uncle Tom’s journey wasn’t just about sales—it was about building a brand. With help from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), he joined trade fairs and learned about branding, marketing, and networking. His vinegar began appearing in local supermarkets and gained support from other promotional channels, making it a regional favorite.
The roots of his entrepreneurial spirit trace back to his parents. His mother sold fish and jewelry, while his father dabbled in various businesses—from tailoring and shoemaking to operating a junk shop. These early lessons shaped his work ethic and business philosophy.
More Than Profit: A Business That Gives Back
Uncle Tom believes success isn’t just measured in earnings but in community impact. He prioritizes creating jobs and opportunities for his fellow villagers, knowing that when a business is rooted in purpose, good things follow.
“I don’t just focus on how much I earn each month. I think more about how many people we can help and how we can grow together as a community,” he shares.
Uncle Tom’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Uncle Tom offers this wisdom:
- Look around you. Sometimes, the best business idea is right in your backyard.
- Learn the system. Understanding the ins and outs of running a business is crucial.
- Build your network. Organizations like DTI and DOST can guide you through funding, product formulation, and market access.
- Stay authentic. Let your values and community guide your decisions.
“Sometimes, what seems sour at first turns out to be a blessing in disguise,” he adds.
The Future of Sukang Iloko
With its distinctive tang and entrepreneurial spirit, Sukang Iloko is more than a dipping sauce—it’s a symbol of Filipino resilience, creativity, and the flavorful possibilities of going home and starting anew.
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