By Marinel E. Peroy
In the heart of Bulan, Sorsogon, where cacao thrives and local traditions are woven into every aspect of daily life, a small family business has been quietly creating something truly extraordinary. Lola Tita de Cacao is a tribute to heritage, a celebration of community, and a labor of love that has been passed down through generations.
Founded in the 1940s by the matriarch Lola Tita, the brand’s roots run deep, beginning in a humble home where family, friends, and neighbors would gather to share stories, laughter, and, of course, her famous tableas—round tablets of pure cacao used to make sikwate, the beloved Filipino chocolate drink.
This simple yet rich tradition lives on today, through her daughter, Mommy Nieva, who continues the legacy by handcrafting every batch with the same care and passion that Lola Tita herself once did.
While the brand’s online presence only began in May 2022, Lola Tita de Cacao has already made its mark in the Philippines and beyond. With its commitment to quality, authenticity, and sustainability, the company is paving the way for local cacao to be celebrated on the global stage.
A sip of tradition, a taste of home
For co-founder Naomi Rhona Santos, Lola Tita de Cacao is more than just a business—it’s a bridge between the past and the present.
“We aim to provide our customers with an authentic and nostalgic experience,” Santos shares with THEPHILBIZNEWS. “We take pride in offering high-quality cacao products that showcase the rich history and flavors of our heritage.”
At the core of the brand is a deep respect for tradition. Each batch of tablea is made with locally sourced cacao, supporting Filipino farmers and their communities while maintaining the integrity of the product. The result is a drink that isn’t just a chocolate fix; it’s an experience that brings warmth and nostalgia with every sip.
As Santos puts it, Lola Tita de Cacao is a reflection of family, community, and tradition. “We’re passionate about creating a memorable and meaningful experience through our cacao products, and we look forward to sharing the traditions of Lola Tita with people in the Philippines and beyond,” she says.
From local roots to global reach
Despite being a relatively young player in the world of online retail, Lola Tita de Cacao has already reached impressive milestones, with their products being featured at key events like the Christmas Flea Market in Quezon City and the Great British Festival in Bonifacio Global City.
The brand has also garnered attention internationally, with diplomats such as Philippine Ambassador to France Junever M. Mahilum-West and Philippine Ambassador to Belgium Jaime Victor B. Ledda receiving the cherished cacao products. Representing the SME sector, Lola Tita De Cacao was also a partner for THEPHILBIZNEWS’ first Entrepreneur’s Night.
But Lola Tita de Cacao isn’t just about delicious chocolate—it’s about wellness and connection. In collaboration with Kazane Windy, the brand offers Cacao Ceremonies, combining the rich history of cacao with mindfulness practices such as guided meditations, heart-opening chakra sessions, and opportunities for personal reflection. These ceremonies, offered both online and in-person, allow participants to experience cacao in a holistic, transformative way.
As the business looks to the future, Lola Tita de Cacao has big dreams. The brand aims to become a leading force in the Philippine cacao industry, elevating the profile of local cacao on the international stage and ensuring that the legacy of Lola Tita continues to inspire generations to come.
An invitation to support Filipino craftsmanship
By embracing Lola Tita de Cacao, consumers around the world can not only enjoy a delicious, high-quality product but also participate in the preservation of Filipino heritage and the empowerment of local farmers.
It is clear that this small, family-owned business has the potential to make a global impact. So, the next time you indulge in a cup of sikwate, remember—you’re not just savoring a chocolate drink; you’re tasting a piece of history, a sip of tradition, and a taste of home.
For more information, follow their social media accounts:
Instagram: @lolatitadecacao
Facebook: Lola Tita de Cacao
Email: lolatitacacao@gmail.com