In photo: Ms. Girlie Saflor Kahano at the Norma's Suman and Sweet Delicacies Physical Store.

Norma’s Suman, owned by the Kahano family and led by Ms. Girlie Saflor Kahano, has earned a reputation as one of the town’s known Kakanin businesses. With over 25 years of operation, the business thrives on the original recipe passed down from Norma, Ms. Girlie’s mother. Serving as their family’s main source of income, Norma’s Suman began as a humble store, making homemade delights such as “Suman,” “Biko,” and “Kalamay undas”.

The business originated with her mother ‘Norma’, whose unique making of kakanin provided a means to meet the family’s daily needs. Norma shared her recipes with her children, and involving them in the business to ensure the legacy continued. She envisioned a sustainable family tradition, believing that the business would benefit their future generations. Ms. Girlie Kahano, one of Norma’s children, embraced this legacy, leading the family in sustaining and operating the business. Alongside her husband, siblings, and relatives, they contribute to making the business their primary source of income.

Their business took an unexpected turn in 2020 when the global pandemic affected the supply chains that leads to decreased sales. Facing challenges and navigating restrictions, Ms. Girlie and her family strived to source materials while following the government mandates. Despite the setbacks, she persevered, determined to keep the operation of their business.

As they gradually recovering from the pandemic’s impact, Ms. Girlie Kahano received assistance from the Negosyo Center, where she underwent counseling and explored DTI programs. Fortunately, she qualified for the Livelihood Seeding Program of DTI – Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay, an opprortunity received through DTI screening and the support of the Local Government Unit of Kawit. Diligently participating in the program’s training, she acquired new knowledge and skills to boost their business. Continuous guidance from the Negosyo Center of Kawit empowered her, and she was also invited to join programs like OTOP Next Gen, offering valuable insights to enhance their business ideas and improve their products.

Now, they’re working hard to bring their business back on track. With the part of DTI’s program, Ms. Girlie maintains their passion for sharing her mother’s recipe while introducing new ‘Kakanin’ products to expand their offerings. Through leveraging technology and community support, they expand their reach, using online platforms and social media to showcase their Kakanin creations. She believes that running the business is essential for sustaining their needs and surviving life, just as her mother did for their family. She always remember her mother’s words ‘Ipagpatuloy nyo lang itong hanap buhay na ito, hindi kayo magugutom”. ♦

Date of release: 4 January 2024

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