MIRA’s Food Trading, a small enterprise nurtured by the Department of Science and Technology Region 11 (DOST 11) through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), has emerged as a National Finalist for the prestigious Best SETUP Project Award.
Established in 2015 by Miraflor and Ramel Gelbiro, Mira’s Food Trading started as a humble backyard venture producing processed meat products. Over the years, the firm has grown into a thriving enterprise, employing 62 workers—79% of whom are women—and serving markets across Regions 11, 12, and beyond.
With support from DOST-SETUP I in 2019, Mira’s Food Trading accessed ₱410,700.00 in funding to mechanize its production processes. This intervention, which included acquiring meat processing equipment such as cutters, blenders, and vacuum packing machines, significantly improved efficiency, product quality, and compliance with food safety standards.
In 2023, the firm received additional support under DOST-SETUP II, amounting to ₱1,171,812.50, to acquire advanced equipment like a large walk-in freezer and band sealers. These upgrades further enhanced its production capacity, storage efficiency, and product shelf life, enabling the business to scale and diversify its offerings.
Speaking about the achievement, DOST 11 Regional Director Dr. Anthony Sales said, “Mira’s Food Trading exemplifies how strategic innovation and government support can transform a local business into a driver of economic growth. Their journey inspires other entrepreneurs to embrace technology as a means to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable success. We at DOST 11 are proud to have supported their growth and will continue to empower enterprises across the region.”
The Gelbiros’ resilience has been tested through various crises, including the 2019 M6.9 earthquake, the African Swine Flu outbreak, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the firm stood firm, adapting to market shifts and maintaining affordability for their customers.
Today, Mira’s Food Trading produces an average of 58,516 packs of processed meat monthly, offering products ranging from traditional favorites like chorizo and embutido to innovative veggie-based options aimed at promoting better nutrition. Their products are now sold in 173 outlets across Mindanao, with plans for further expansion through reseller hubs.
The recognition as a National Finalist underscores Mira’s Food Trading’s dedication to quality, community development, and technological advancement. It also highlights the pivotal role of DOST 11’s SETUP program in enabling small businesses to achieve greater efficiency, scalability, and market impact.
For the Gelbiros, their mission goes beyond profit. By creating employment opportunities and fostering innovation, Mira’s Food Trading continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region. PR
