What started as a risky ₱500 gamble in 2024 has grown into a steady livelihood for a couple in Barangay Quesban, Calasiao, Pangasinan, who now supply ensaymada and other baked goods to schools and local offices.

Lito and Virgie Lopez said they began baking siopao at home after realizing that Lito’s earnings as a jeepney driver were not enough to support their family of five. With only a few bills left in his wallet, Lito decided to try something new.

“Driver lang tapos naging baker… Tingin-tingin lang, hanggang nag-seminar, ayun natuto,” Lito said.

They first produced only one tray of siopao a day, selling it around the barangay. But the small venture grew quickly. Soon, they learned to bake different types of bread, and expanded eventually into ensaymada production.

Today, the couple supplies ensaymada to schools, makes personalized cakes for catering services, and accepts orders from local government offices.

Virgie recalled how they slowly built their bakery from their earnings.

“Tapos pinalaki namin iyon hangga’t nabili namin iyong mga gamit namin dito sa bakery, tapos gumawa na kami ng ibang mga produkto hanggang lumaki,” she said.

Through every step, mixing, kneading, cooking, and adding the final touches, the couple works side by side.

“Masaya kasi magkasama kami palagi, hindi kami naghiwalay. Kasi noon kinukuha [ang asawa mag-trabaho] sa abroad, ayaw niya, kasi ayaw niyang mapalayo sa amin,” Virgie added.

For Lito, the best part is having their own livelihood.

“Eto sarili mo na eh… Hindi ka na aalis tapos wala ka pang amo,” he said.

The small investment they made years ago helped support their three children, who are now a teacher, an engineer, and a computer science graduate.

Lito encouraged others who want to improve their lives to keep learning.

“Pag wala kang alam talaga, hindi ka rin makakagawa. Mag-aral ka talaga dito. Kung ano gusto mong gawin, mag-aral ng gusto mo,” he said.