History
From a Small Kitchen in Bacolod to a Beloved Pasalubong Tradition
In 1974, in a rented home on the corner of San Sebastian Street in Bacolod City, Virginia “Virgie” Chua’s oven was always warm and ready. What started as a simple hobby—baking cakes and pastries for family and friends—quickly turned into something bigger. With only ₱3,000, a conventional gas oven, and help from her son’s yaya, Virgie began making homemade treats that no one could resist.
Encouraged by her father, Leoncio Ong, Virgie began selling her products at New Island Grocery on Araneta Street, the largest grocery store in Bacolod at the time. Her Banana Cake and Pastillas de Manga became instant hits, laying the foundation for what would become one of Bacolod’s favorite pasalubong shops.
Featured in Negros Seasons of Culture
From Home Baking to a Storefront
Driven by her early success, Virgie opened a small store beside her home on San Sebastian Street. Despite her background in Banking and Finance, with no formal training in food processing, her passion and determination pushed her to turn her hobby into a real business. She received early support from the National Cottage Industry Development Authority (NACIDA), which helped her expand her operations.
In the 1980s, a nationwide flour shortage threatened small bakeries like hers. Virgie joined the Bacolod Negros Occidental Baker’s Association (BACNOBA), where she gained training that helped her navigate this challenge and keep her business thriving.
Building a Name Through Associations and Trade Fairs
In 1988, Virgie became a founding member of the Association of Negros Producers (ANP). Through ANP, she gained access to seminars, trade fairs, and selling missions in Metro Manila. These events grew her brand’s reputation, making Virgie’s a household name in both Bacolod and Manila.
Support from the DTI and DOST
With support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Virgie’s Homemade was able to develop new products, extend shelf life, and participate in prestigious events like the National Trade Fair (NTF) and the International Food Exposition (IFEX) in Manila. These opportunities opened doors to even greater success.
A Growing Legacy
By 2002, Virgie’s Homemade had outgrown its modest beginnings. What started as a 9-square-meter storefront grew into a three-story building. Today, the ground floor serves as a showroom store, with the upper floors dedicated to production and leased commercial spaces.
Today, Virgie’s Homemade continues to be a symbol of Bacolod’s commitment to quality, drawing locals and tourists alike to experience the nostalgic, homemade flavors that have become the heart of Virgie’s brand.
Visit Us
📍 Address: 59 San Sebastian Street, Bacolod City, Philippines
📞 Contact: +63(34) 434-1588 | +63(34) 434-1788
🕒 Open daily from 8AM – 6PM
