Ilongga chocolatier shines at tablea tilt with Dinagyang-inspired entry

Stephanie Gulmatico, owner of Doc’s Haven Food Products in Iloilo, showcased her unique tablea creation at the 1st Philippine Flavored Tablea Competition on July 29, 2024, held at the Waterfront Hotel in Lahug, Cebu City.

Gulmatico’s entry, “Inspired by the Dinagyang Festival,” featured a distinctive twist with lemon as a main ingredient, served in a bamboo cup.

The competition, which highlighted various types and flavored local tablea, saw 25 entries from across the nation. Gulmatico credits her success to the support and training provided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Iloilo.

As an alumna of the Kapatid Mentor Me Program, she benefited from coaching and mentoring on different aspects of business operations.

Additionally, she completed modules on Product Development for Cacao-based products and Training on Cacao Production Technology through DTI.

“DTI Iloilo has been instrumental in my journey. The training and support have empowered me to refine my products and expand my network through the Iloilo Provincial Cacao Council. This competition is just the beginning for me,” said Gulmatico.

 

The Flavored Tablea Competition was presented by the Philippine Cacao Industry Association (PCIA), the Philippine Cacao Industry Council (PCIC), the Department of Tourism, and the Pastry Alliance of the Philippines.

Gulmatico is also the proud owner of SOGNAREPH, an artisanal chocolate brand offering a variety of fine chocolates, including Rocher Con Barquillo, Gianduiotti, Coffee Trifecta, and various percentages of Dark Chocolate, as well as Milk Chocolate, Vegan Milk Chocolate, Salty Pistachio with Tultul Salt, and chocolate salami.

Her products are available at Café Del Prado at Hotel Del Rio Iloilo, her residence in Pueblo Concepcion Mandurriao, or through their Facebook page, Sognareph.ilo.