In this interview, Yen de Felipe interviewed three women entrepreneurs in Iloilo, Philippines who are established in the industry of Cacao and Hablon (hand-loomed weaving).

Find out how Girlie Flores (Balai Hablon), Catherine Taleon (Balay Tablea), and Luanne Lei Ramos (Atelier de Hablon) started their businesses that aim to promote locally produced food and raw materials from Iloilo.

Key Takeaways:

• Having a business that is related to your passion is truly rewarding.
• Always give back to the community.
• Keep on going despite the challenging times especially during this time of the pandemic.
• Find your niche and stick to it.
• Don’t be threatened by “competition”. Find ways you can actually collaborate with them.

Episode Highlights:

• Tsokolate kag Hablon (Cacao and Hand-loomed fabric) as part of the Ilonggo culture
• How and why they started their businesses.
• Challenges encountered in starting these types of businesses.
• Dealing with competitors and other similar businesses.
• How niching down can work to your advantage.
• Lowest points in the business.

Connect with our guests:

Ma. Girlie Flores of Balai Hablon

Catherine Taleon of Balay Tablea

Luanne Lei Ramos of Atelier de Hablon

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