Located along JM Basa Street in Iloilo, the family business remains robust even against competition posed by fast-food giants. Originally known for their hamburgers, the Yaps expanded their menu to include siopaos which proved to be a big hit. Roberto’s siopaos come in four variants, namely:
•Small-pork adobo siopao
with egg;
•Medium -chicken, and pork adobo siopao
with Chinese sausage and egg;
•Large- also known as “King which is chicken and pork adobo siopao with ham and egg; and
•Extra Large- also billed as “Queen” which is essentially chicken and pork adobo
siopao with bacon and egg.
Dako, a Commerce graduate from La Salle Taft, and his siblings have since taken over the business after their father’s death. Dako takes care of promotions and the financial side while a brother is in charge of product development.
Budding entrepreneurs, according to Dako, should have “the passion for it”. They should be hands-on and always keep in mind that all the blessings are from God, not entirely our own. We are but an instrument.” Dako Yap knows whereof he speaks.
After all, their 33-year track record is no mean feat. “I am like any other hardworking working class citizen. If I have to go behind the counter and sell our products myself, I do it without hesitation. I am at the store from 10 am to 12 noon and then go back at 3 pm and stay until 5 pm. We have no choice but to love the legacy that our father has left us.
Source: Ilonggo Initiatives published by Iloilo Business Club (2011)
