In a prestigious ceremony at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, Iloilo City honored its outstanding entrepreneurs, spotlighting Emilio Diez of JD Bakeshop as the Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year. The event, organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Iloilo, celebrated the achievements of local business leaders who have significantly shaped the city’s economic landscape.
Diez, who received his award on December 19, 2024, shared the story of JD Bakeshop’s humble beginnings 50 years ago. Inspired by his father-in-law’s admiration for a successful Hong Kong bakery, JD Bakeshop started as a cottage industry, capitalizing on the hot pandesal trend of the 1970s. Today, the business has evolved to offer a diverse menu including meals, smoothies, and coffee, reflecting its commitment to innovation and adaptation to current trends.
Diez emphasized that the core values of discipline, persistence, and innovation have been pivotal to their success, as evidenced by their latest venture, JD Innovate, which focuses on creative dining experiences.
The third annual Search for Outstanding Ilonggo Entrepreneur Awards also recognized other notable figures in the local business community. Alice Grace Ledesma-Bautista of One BPO was named Young Ilonggo Entrepreneur, while Genecio Woo of The B Academy Ph., Inc. received the Aspiring Entrepreneur award.
Special citations were awarded in various categories, highlighting the diverse entrepreneurial spirit in Iloilo. Paul Kaldi of Paul Kaldi Coffee received the Social Entrepreneur Award, Bea Genson of Clothes Station was honored with the Sustainable Entrepreneur Award, and Ledesma-Bautista of One BPO also took home the Innovative Entrepreneur Award. Cris Vinson of Primof was recognized with the Creative Entrepreneur Award, Genecio Woo of The B Academy Ph., Inc. received the Tech-Based Entrepreneur Award, and Arnel John Vallejo of Banwa Pens was awarded the Non-Tech-Based Entrepreneur Award.
The awardees were presented with the Tariktik Trophy, a symbol of resilience and integrity crafted by Ilonggo artist Marrz Capanang, inspired by the endangered Visayan hornbill.
Mayor Jerry Treñas, through Velma Jane Lao of the Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office, praised the awardees for their contributions to job creation, economic growth, and inspiring future entrepreneurs. He acknowledged their impact not only on their industries but also on the broader community of Iloilo.