What started as a simple snack to remind their children of home became a thriving business for Ilocano couple Mike and Cathy Tugas who now lives in Canada.After craving Ilocos empanada, Cathy learned how to make the popular snack, which soon became a hit not only with her family but with the local community."Nami-miss ng mga anak ko ang empanada so gumawa ako para sa amin... Then nag-come out, sabi ng mga anak ko, 'Bakit hindi natin ibenta, Mama?'" Cathy said.
"Marami rin Ilocano sa Canada, kaya 'yung pagtanggap nila sobra-sobrang init, kasing init ng empanada namin," Mike said.Their business now caters to a variety of customers, including people from different backgrounds.Aside from empanada, the couple also sells longganisa, tocino, bibingka, and sukang Iloco, with their products available in convenience stores and at pop-up events.