Press Releases

​

Growing up, Mrs. Emilyn Labor dreamed of becoming a doctor, but fate had other plans in store for her. Following her mother's counsel, she embarked on a path towards a Bachelor of Science in Commerce, setting the stage for a journey into entrepreneurship. Before the inception of Jireh Food Products, she dedicated herself to the role of a Social Welfare Assistant from 2001 to 2005, actively contributing to the betterment of her community. The arrival of her daughter saw a transition to full-time motherhood, while her spouse pursued employment as a welding inspector in Saudi Arabia. 

In 2016, when her husband returned home due to financial trouble in Saudi Arabia, Mrs. Labor had to support the family. She turned to online business to cope with the economic downturn, using her own savings. Realizing the importance of stability, she sought help from government agencies to secure her family's future. 

In late 2017, as Mrs. Labor immersed herself in a series of seminars and training sessions aimed at enhancing her entrepreneurial skills. Armed with a mere 2000 pesos as initial capital, she embarked on the journey of business ownership. Today, Jireh Food Products stands as a testament to Mrs. Labor's resilience and determination, offering nourishing and affordable products to her local community.  

In October 2017, Mrs. Labor reached out to the DTI – Camarines Norte Provincial Office (DTI-CNPO) to explore programs and services for OFWs. The invitation to managerial and skills training sessions marked the beginning of a transformative experience. The Skills Training on Fruits and Vegetable Chips Making, attended on November 7, 2017, opened her eyes to the immense potential of these products, not just for health-conscious consumers but also as a means to support local farmers and enhance the agricultural landscape in Camarines Norte.  

Equipped with newfound knowledge, Mrs. Labor explored deeper into entrepreneurship through the Seminar on Starting Your Business. It became evident that starting a business could provide a sustainable income, potentially eliminating the need for the individual's husband to work abroad. Overcoming initial hurdles such as procuring tools, introducing products to the market, and managing finances, the DTI, particularly through Negosyo Centers (NCs), played a crucial role. The assistance provided to her includes loan facilitation, network linkages to suppliers, buyers and other stakeholders, opportunities to showcase products thru trade fairs, expanding their market reach. 

In 2018, Mrs. Labor was encouraged to join the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program. Combining studies and running a business proved challenging for her but with her desire to pursue her dreams into reality, she actively seize opportunities through various government programs, embodying the spirit of empowerment and growth.  

“KMME taught me that in business we have to set our mind for its success. We have to develop our talent and keep on innovating, put our passion into it and to give time in the business. I also learned that human resources are the big assets of a business so have time to develop and train them and just like what we do, consider them as a family. Product development is also a big tool to make our products competitive in the big market as I experienced and applied it”. 

Presently, Jireh Food Products (JFP) is dedicated to providing a diverse range of healthy and cost-effective offerings. The product line features a delightful options, including nutrient-rich vegetable chips with ten (10) enticing flavors such as squash, carrots, tomato, lady finger (okra), malunggay, bitter gourd / ampalaya, fern, water spinach, mix n’ match and our newest coconut crunch.   

Elevating health-conscious choices, JFP also boast an assortment of pure honey, malunggay powder, and turmeric tea. At JFP, taking pride in crafting delectable gourmet treats, tarts, and natural sweeteners like coco sugar. JFP’s commitment to quality and affordability ensures that everyone can savor the goodness of our homegrown delights.   

JFP has gained a notable reputation in the market for its unique blend of quality, compassion, and innovation. They are dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable, and preservative-free snacks, which can be found in numerous stores across Luzon and are readily available on various online platforms like Shopee, Lazada, their Facebook Page, TikTok, and Commercenorte.com. 

Through Jireh Food Products, Mrs. Labor not only brought her husband back home but also elevated their business from a modest Php 2,000.00 starting capital in 2017 to an impressive monthly gross sales of Php 600,000.00 – Php 800,000.00. 

Moreover, Jireh Food Products proudly supports local farmers, thereby enhancing the value of agricultural products in their province. By choosing their snacks, customers not only enjoy guilt-free treats but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of the local community.  

In addition to their ongoing efforts, they have established an association to support their employees and farmers, with plans to formalize it into a cooperative. This further demonstrates their commitment to empowering and uplifting those within their community. Jireh Food Products has also received many awards and recognitions such as bagging 5th Place in the Best Product competition during the 14th Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Forum and Product Exhibition on September 2, 2018, receiving a Plaque of Recognition and 2.1 million worth of equipment, seminars, and training; 2nd Place in Model OFW Family of the Year Awards given by Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Regional Office 5 last September 30, 2018; and Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneur Award at the Women Summit event of Go Negosyo, held at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay last March 9, 2024  

“As an inspiring Filipina entrepreneur, I believe that women are meant to survive even in the most difficult times, overcoming challenges within our country's business landscape. Our products' success is not just an individual achievement but a collective triumph, uplifting my family, dedicated employees, farmers, and the broader community. I believe I am a living testament to Go Negosyo’s tagline of “Kapatid, Angat Lahat,” demonstrating that despite the hurdles in our industry, success is attainable through perseverance and collaboration. The prosperity of our products reflects the success of all those involved, reinforcing the notion that when we uplift others, we elevate ourselves and our communities toward greater heights”.  

“As a product of the NC program and a proud homegrown entrepreneur, I aspire to be an inspiration to many, encouraging everyone to Dream Big and Start Small. My journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, persistence, faithfulness, and a commitment to uplifting others”.   said Ms. Labor

 

By: Camarines Norte Provincial Office