Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental—The home of Baofei Café started during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It began as a practical response to a crisis and soon evolved into a full-service café.
After losing her job as a seafarer, Kristine De La Cruz started a small food and drink delivery service to support herself and to serve the needs of her community.
With hard work and dedication, Baofei Cafe opened its first branch in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental and later expanded to a second location in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. From just two staff members, the business expanded to a team of over 30 personnel and still continues to thrive.
Central to Baofei Cafe’s mission is its commitment to supporting locals. By sourcing farm-to-cup coffee directly from local farmers, the business not only offers fresh, quality beverages but also contributes to the local agricultural economy.
Like many entrepreneurs, Kristine faced challenges in managing operations, marketing, and finances. Much of her early progress involved trial and error until she connected with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Through DTI’s Modularized Business Learning Sessions (MBLS) last December 2023 in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, she received valuable training in business systems, accounting, and digital marketing, which transformed the way she managed the café.
Today, Kristine’s journey from seafarer to café owner is a powerful reminder that change, while often difficult, can also bring new beginnings.
“Start small but think big. Never stop improving and stay consistent.” Kristine shares this message to fellow aspiring entrepreneurs.
“Most of all, believe in yourself. Kailangan 100% buo ang loob mo. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with heart, hard work, and the support of your community, anything is possible (You need to be fully committed).”
Today, Baofei Cafe stands as a successful example of how small ideas, when fueled by perseverance and guided by the right support, can grow into impactful local enterprises.
Kristine’s journey is a reminder that with passion, community spirit, and belief in oneself, even the most difficult circumstances can lead to lasting success. (Meliza Cande B. Taclindo)
