Bread and Butter Bakeshop celebrates 40th years of growth, gratitude and new beginnings

KALIBO, AKLAN – Bread & Butter Bakeshop, a proud Aklanon brand, has officially marked its 40th year of serving delicious bread and quality food products across Panay Island and nearby communities. From its modest beginnings in 1985, the company has grown into one of the region’s most trusted food enterprises under Filbake Food Corporation—and is now entering a new chapter of leadership, innovation, and deeper community impact.

This year’s celebration is not just about milestones—it is about honoring people and embracing the future.

A total of 185 employees were recognized during the 40th anniversary program for their loyalty and dedicated service, with awardees receiving honors for 5, 10, 15, 20, and even more than 30 years of continuous service. In addition, several team members received Best Performer and Productivity Awards in recognition of their hard work, commitment, and excellence across the company’s branches and operations.

“Our people are the heart of Bread & Butter. Their passion and resilience through the years have made everything possible,” said company leaders during the awarding ceremony.

As part of the company’s generational transition, Ms. Josefina Dela Cruz–Tuano now serves as Executive Vice President of Filbake Food Corp. Her brother, Guidon Macciri C. Dela Cruz II, leads PizzaDos Corporation and Pocydon Holdings, focusing on new ventures in food service and business development. The family’s hospitality arm, Ati-Atihan Festival Hotel, continues to grow under Ms. Elsa Igat as President, with Dr. Cynthia C. Dela Cruz joining its Board of Directors and the Advisory Board of Filbake.

Supporting the transition and daily operations is a strong management team:
Ms. Janesville Agreda, Chief Finance Officer, has played a key role in financial strategy and building strong partnerships with BPI and Landbank. Ms. Ivy Lim, AVP for Operations, ensures smooth store operations; Ms. Malou Mansayon, AVP for Production, oversees manufacturing; and Mr. Rhett Ibabao, AVP for Business Support, leads internal systems and HR functions.

The company also acknowledges the valuable support of government agencies such as DOST, DTI, and SB Corporation, which have helped Filbake through grants, training, and small enterprise development programs.

For the first half of 2025, Filbake Food Corp reports strong growth, driven by demand for its products, expansion to new markets, and the professionalism of its leadership team.

“As we move forward, we are guided by the same values—Masarap, Malinis, Maasahan—that built this company,” said Ms. Dela Cruz–Tuano. “This is our way of honoring the past, celebrating the present, and preparing for the future—not just for our family, but for all the families we serve and work with.”

With a legacy built on trust, service, and community, Bread & Butter Bakeshop looks ahead to its next chapter—rising stronger, together.