Entrepreneurship has always been a driving force for countries like the Philippines, and the numbers show it. As recently as 2021, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) recorded that out of over 1,080,000 businesses operating in the country, more than 99.5% of these are classified as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Of these MSMEs, 90.5% are micro businesses, while small and medium enterprises make up 8.6% and 0.41% of the group respectively. 

What does this tell us? 

That local business is alive and well in the Philippines—and the 2019 census by the PSA found that 55.8% of the more-than-million businesses in the country are owned or run by women. 

And this blog is meant to highlight a small fraction of those women-owned businesses in the Philippines. This International Women’s Day, get inspired by the heart and grit from these Philippine-based women entrepreneurs.

Put these 5 women-owned businesses in the Philippines on your radar

Casa Luisa

If you're looking for a slice of comfort, look no further than Casa Luisa. Led by Chef Jen Gerodias Slagle, this heritage-home bakery is all about bringing Filipino-inspired baked goods to the masses.

All ingredients are sourced and produced the old-fashioned way in Casa Luisa's heritage home in San Pedro Laguna. That means no shortcuts and no compromises on quality.

So whether you're in the mood for a savory snack or a sweet indulgence, Casa Luisa's got something to satisfy your taste buds. Their signature macapuno cakes are must-try and their empanadas make for great lunch on-the go—but really, anything off of this menu will not disappoint!

Kuh Meal

Founded by Camille Anne Cruz, this home-style cooking business is dedicated to providing Filipinos with delicious food that'll make you feel like you're back in your mom's kitchen. Their menu includes a variety of savory dishes, as well as sweet treats that are sure to satisfy any craving. 

One of their crowd-favorites, the Leche Flan Brioche Doughnuts, are absolutely out of this world. Soft and flaky brioche with the creamy caramel-y center? Yes, please. And don't get us started on their cheesy garlic brioche buns—you'll want to eat a dozen in one sitting.

So next time you're looking for a taste of home or some damn good Filipino food, head over to Kuh Meal’s online store, and let them fill your belly with love and comfort. You won't regret it.

Valerie’s Kitchen

Another delightful women-led business is run by Valerie Sotto, who heads Valerie's Kitchen and is all about cakes—and not just any kind of cake, mind you. Valerie's cakes are absolutely delicious and are made with a lot of love and care.

Valerie's passion for baking began when she was just a teenager. She’s been at it ever since, and now she offers a variety of flavors at her bakery. Her signature cakes include the Strawberry Dream Cake, the Rum Cake with Salted Caramel, and the Sanrival Cake. Each cake is made with fresh ingredients, and Valerie herself takes excellent care to ensure every cake is baked to perfection.

If you're ever in the mood for something sweet and delicious, check out Valerie's Kitchen to satisfy those hankerings. You won't be disappointed!

Danessa’s Kitchen

With humble roots from Cebu, Danessa's Kitchen led by Danessa has now expanded their operations to different islands, namely Manila and Tarlac, and deliver their delicious treats straight to  more Filipino doorsteps. 

Their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients sets them apart from the competition, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. 

One thing that ought to be at the top of your list are their award-winning empanadas. They come in various mouth-watering flavors, and some of their most popular offerings include the beef Jamaican, beef Mexican, and tuna melt. No matter which one you choose, you can trust that it will be made with the utmost care and attention to detail.

So if you're looking for a tasty and convenient snack supporting a women-led business, be sure to try Danessa's Kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you.

Ciento Cookies

It all started when Dee Verceles decided to leave her corporate job and focus on her true passion: baking. Today, not only is Ciento Cookies an excellent example of a woman-led business in the Philippines, but it also showcases the power of pursuing your dreams and passions. 

Dee has taken a leap of faith and has successfully turned her hobby into a thriving business that is loved by many. Her own love for baking has led her to create some amazing signature, palm-sized 100g cookies that have gained her thousands of followers on popular social media platforms like Tiktok and Instagram. 

The Chocolate Chip Cookies, Red Velvet Cream Cheese, Biscoff Cookie, and Matchadamia are some of the most popular treats that have won the hearts of many.

Ciento Cookies has become a household name for those who crave delicious and freshly baked cookies. Dee’s commitment to using only the finest ingredients and her passion for baking has helped her to continue growing her business and loyal customer base.

Support a women-led business in the Philippines today

Put it on your bucket list to support a business owned and led by women this International Women’s Day. Start from our list, and share your favorites with a friend—it goes a long way to support women entrepreneurs in the Philippines.

Want to take your own passion and turn it into profit like these inspiring entrepreneurs? Start your shop on Cococart, the ecommerce platform that champions small local businesses in the Philippines and around the world.

Discover more inspiring women-led businesses today:

Small Businesses, Big Dreams: A Look at 5 Women-led Small Businesses in Singapore
Women Leading the Way: A Look at 5 Women-led Small Businesses in America
She Means Business: A Look at 5 Successful Women-led Small Businesses in Australia
From Hobby to Business: 5 Women-led Small Businesses in the UK