Village Connect
Two decades ago, Maricar “Ate Rica” Peñalosa started with a simple idea and a small food cart that served affordable silog meals to busy Filipinos on the go. Today, Ate Rica’s Bacsilog has grown into a recognized franchise brand, but for Rica, the company’s 20th anniversary represents something far more meaningful than business expansion or longevity.
For the founder, the milestone is deeply personal — a reflection of the people, lessons, and values that shaped the journey from the very beginning.
Looking back, Rica recalls how the business was built through persistence, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. She credits much of her mindset and leadership style to the influence of her father, whose teachings on discipline, humility, and compassion became guiding principles not only in her life, but also in the culture of the company.
Rather than focusing solely on profits or growth, Rica believes the strength of the business has always come from the relationships formed through the years. What began as a modest food cart eventually became a workplace and support system for many employees who remained loyal to the company through different stages of its growth.
According to Rica, one of the most rewarding parts of the journey is seeing how the business created opportunities for people to provide for their families and build stable livelihoods. She shared that every returning customer contributes not only to the success of the brand, but also to the welfare of the hardworking employees behind the operations.
For Rica, the dedication of the team remains one of the company’s greatest blessings. She describes her employees as individuals who consistently give their best because they genuinely care about the work they do and the customers they serve. Over time, those professional relationships evolved into something much deeper.
She admitted that although they may not be related by blood, the company eventually became an extended family bound by trust, shared struggles, and mutual support.
The entrepreneur also reflected on how her understanding of success changed over the years. When she first entered business in her 30s, growth and expansion were primary goals. But as the company matured, Rica realized that true fulfillment came from creating meaningful impact in the lives of others.
She now sees the business not simply as a source of income, but as a platform to help people through employment, mentorship, and a workplace culture where employees feel appreciated and respected.
Industry observers often note that businesses lasting two decades usually succeed because they establish authentic connections with people. In the case of Ate Rica’s Bacsilog, that connection is visible in the loyalty of both employees and customers who continued supporting the brand through changing times.
From a humble sidewalk cart known for its signature cheese sauce and comforting silog meals, the brand eventually grew into a nationwide community fueled by trust, resilience, and shared purpose.
As Ate Rica’s Bacsilog marks its 20th year, the celebration stands not only as a business milestone, but also as proof that enduring brands are built through sincerity, compassion, and genuine care for people.
For Rica, every challenge encountered along the way became worthwhile because of the individuals who chose to stay, believe, and grow with the brand throughout the journey.
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