PAMPANGA — What started as a backyard business in Porac, Pampanga in 1986 has now taken center stage at one of Asia's biggest food trade shows. Mekeni Food Corporation joined IFEX Philippines 2026 from May 21 to 23 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, showcasing its export-quality Filipino products to international buyers and distributors from across the globe .
The homegrown Kapampangan brand has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Today, Mekeni products are available in more than 20 countries spanning Asia, the Middle East, North America, Europe, and Oceania . Company President Pruds Garcia summed up the journey simply: "What started as a small homegrown enterprise in Pampanga has now grown into a brand trusted by Filipino families and international consumers alike" .
From Lahar to Global Recognition
The Mekeni story is one of resilience that every Kapampangan can take pride in. Founded by former public school teachers Felix and Meding Garcia in 1986, the business was buried under lahar when Mount Pinatubo erupted in 1991 . But with help from their OFW sons, the family rebuilt from the ashes and never looked back. Today, Mekeni exports products like Picnic Hotdogs, Tocino, Longanisa, and Sisig to countries including the United States, Canada, UAE, Qatar, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand .
At IFEX, the company highlighted its adherence to global food safety standards, including FSSC 22000 and HACCP certifications, proving that Kapampangan-made products can compete with the best in the world . Assistant Vice President Marilou Uy noted that IFEX serves as a valuable platform for expanding international partnerships and promoting Philippine-made products to a global audience.
More Than Just Hotdogs: A Kapampangan Legacy
Beyond exports, Mekeni has stayed true to its community roots. The company recently sealed partnerships with three Pampanga universities to bridge the gap between industry requirements and academic training . It was also recognized as a Top 2 taxpayer by the BIR, demonstrating how a homegrown business can contribute significantly to nation-building while staying committed to quality and service .
For Pampanga, Mekeni's success is more than a corporate achievement—it's proof that Kapampangan craftsmanship, hard work, and resilience can conquer global markets. As Garcia put it, the company aims "to bring Filipino excellence to the global stage" . And with every pack of Picnic hotdogs sold overseas, a piece of Pampanga travels with it.
