The HERO ENTREPRENEUR is also a KING!

Putting the province of Ilocos Norte in a whole new light in the Philippine mango industry map, MANGO KING FOOD PRODUCTS (MKFP), owned by Ric Tolentino Jr. proves that mango cultivation in the country is not solely centered in the Visayas region. He started from rock bottom and slowly made his way up to where he is now- the “MANGO KING OF ILOCOS NORTE”.

Established in 2016, Mango King Food Products is a small-scale food processing company in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. They have a production facility that processes 300 tons of native mangoes per season. Its product line includes dried yellow and green mangoes, mango wine, and mango vinegar.

Tolentino is a recipient of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) trainings and seminars, including the Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program of Go Negosyo and DTI. He was also among the grantees of the Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Project, which provided the equipment to process mangoes. Tolentino was also invited to trade fairs, including the prestigious ANUGA Fair in Germany last October 2019.

The growth of Mango King seems to be unstoppable. Aside from Luzon, it has reached Visayas and Mindanao and has established its export market in the US.

Mango King Food Products had to endure the effects of COVID-19 too. The company controlled the volume of its production based on what the current market demands and  also boosted its social media presence. Virtual and physical trade fairs were also a big help. He learned that having a clear plan and a positive outlook really helps in preparing yourself for the most challenging times.