Innovation

During her high school graduation time her mother became sick where she had a few health problems. She lost weight and the doctors were watching her closely. She tried 13 to 15 different types of medication just to control her hormones, but she didn’t want too much medicine. Through this process she figured that there must be a way she might be able to deal with her condition naturally.

Raquel travelled to the Philippines where she visited an organic coconut farm and met the farmers, producers and she brought back some amazing coconut oil… Raquel later shared her interest on oil with her mom and asked if it was okay for her mom to join her and visit the farm she previously went to.

In 2018, during the Christmas period, they went to the Philippines as a family in Laguna … where they met the farmers and producers. Raquel explains how she was moved by the people there and their small facility that had almost 12 people handling the coconut oil and other products… The idea was to let her company produce organic coconut oil, natural coconut amino sauce ensuring that no part of the nut goes to waste.

The business officially started on March 2019 … Raquel states that they’ve got best sellers coconut amino sauce and coconut jam which is like coconut caramel… The products produced are gluten free, no preservative, additives and colors.

Inspiration

Raquel Konrad was aware of the market saturation on the west-coast in America so she decided she would try it out in Canada where she was interested in creating awareness on Filipino cooking and how it can be made healthy.

Raquel noticed the erosion of culture that led people to adapt on the western living lifestyle. The Canadian lifestyle was not most beneficial especially on the western way of eating and that led her to the thought of starting a brand. She planned to promote the coconut oil, the farmers, and ensuring no middlemen (direct from producers to consumers).

She further explains on the love she had on owning an enterprise but on the basis of Filipino cuisines. Raquel implements the saying ‘charity begins at home’ where the heart gives and offers mercy to others starts from home then branches out to the society.

Overall impact

Bukobaba has shown great impact on both the consumers and producers… Bukobaba Limited can be accessed via online shops and one can order directly from local businesses; their biggest store is Nature’s Fair.

The business is environmentally friendly since the products are packaged by glass material hence the package can either be reused or returned to the shop for recycle… The business offers a platform where consumers can have a taste of the product before purchasing it.

Bukobaba has created employment opportunity both in the Philippines and Canada… Raquel explains further of how the business has great impact since the raw material has nutrition benefits. Coconut has been a nutritious ingredient hence promoting healthy habits.

Raquel and Bukobaba are a reflection of how passion and sustainability can work hand in hand to create change and no matter how small the business is, it can make a global difference. Through its eco-friendly production methods, job creation and outreach programs in Cebu’s children’s home, the company continues to make a meaningful impact on both people and the globe.

Business benefit

Bukobaba has shown great impact on both the consumers and producers. Bukobaba Limited can be accessed via online shops, and one can order directly from local businesses; their biggest store is Nature’s Fair.

The business has continued to grow through word-of-mouth and local markets. Raquel explains that the company’s best sellers are coconut amino sauce and coconut jam, which are gluten-free and free from preservatives or additives.

Because the company uses a direct-trade model, they have established long-term partnerships with farmers and built a reliable supply chain that ensures quality and consistency. The innovation also gives Bukobaba a clear identity in the health and sustainability market in Canada.

Raquel says the company has expanded its customer base while maintaining its values, and their online presence allows them to reach a wider audience. Through this growth, Bukobaba has been able to reinvest in product innovation and community support initiatives in the Philippines.

Social and environmental benefit

Our business gives farmers direct support — they receive fair wages without middlemen taking a cut. We also provide financial aid for farmers and their families during hurricanes and floods in the Philippines.

The business is environmentally friendly since the products are packaged by glass material; hence, the packages can either be reused or returned to the shop for recycling. Bukobaba’s farming partners use natural organic methods, avoiding harmful chemicals and waste.

Raquel and Bukobaba are a reflection of how passion and sustainability can work hand in hand to create change. Through its eco-friendly production methods, job creation, and outreach programs in Cebu’s children’s home, the company continues to make a meaningful impact on both people and the planet.

When they win, we win. When we win, they win. That’s the relationship we have with them. I just dream of them succeeding as well alongside us.

Interview

Raquel Montañez, Founder and Owner