Los Baños Collab: Indonesia’s Trade Attaché Meets the Philippines’ Business Leaders

“To know more about the person, visit his home and you will get a glimpse of his life.” - Grace Bondad Nicolas

A scheduled visit at Los Baños, Laguna has been done, and with the experience of the business delegates from the Philippines recently to Indonesia, hospitality at its best.

MerNel’s Los Baños, the home of the famous heart-shaped chocolate cake in Los Baños, Laguna became the center of cultural exchange and celebration on Monday, November 25, 2024, as Merle Balicao, CEO of MerNel’s Food Corporation and Vice President - External of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Los Baños branch (PCCI-Los LB) hosted a warm luncheon and a surprise birthday celebration for Mr. Martin Pandapotan, Trade Attaché of Indonesia to the Philippines.

Accompanied by his wife and Embassy staff, Mr. Pandapotan was received with heartfelt hospitality by the members of PCCI-LB. The event, held at MerNel’s Los Baños, featured a delightful blend of Indonesian and Filipino cuisines, symbolizing the shared camaraderie between the two nations.

A CELEBRATION OF PARTNERSHIPS AND CULTURE

The highlight of the gathering was Mr. Pandapotan’s surprise birthday celebration, complete with a specially prepared cake and a group rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Mr. Pandapotan expressed his gratitude, describing the day as a testament to the strong ties between Indonesia and the Philippines and a reflection of the warmth of Filipino hospitality.

Board of Trustees; Andrew Troy Nicolas and Lorna Garcia did the opening and welcome remarks for the guests and both were grateful for their visit. That was the first time that a part of the Diplomatic Corps visited Los Baños through PCCI LB.

In the closing remarks delivered by Ronald Calibo from President Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas and Vice President Merle Balicao, who spearheaded the event, remarked, “It is an honor to host Mr. Pandapotan and his team here in Los Baños.

This event showcases the local businesses and the community’s commitment to fostering international collaboration.”

EXPLORING LOCAL EXCELLENCE

The Itinerary also included an introduction to some of Los Baños’ and PCCI-Los Baños’ outstanding enterprises:

MerNel’s Food Corporation (commissary and Stores) - by Merle Balicao, is renowned for its iconic chocolate cakes and dedication to quality.

Zennies Food Products ( at OTOP HUB-AGORA in UPLB )  –by Leila Corcuera a thriving local food manufacturer of Nuts and Chips Products showcasing Filipino ingenuity.

BLink Creative Studio – by Likas Aspiras a hub for innovative marketing and creative services.

V-Lounge Spa – a wellness haven operated by Ms. Lorna Garcia, known for its exceptional services.

Danielito’s Home Kitchen and Malaya’s Café—by Darmilo Sosa—are popular stops in UPLB for their cozy ambiance, coffee concoctions, food, and delicious cake offerings.

Aqua Mystica – by Norma Eusebio, the official purified drinking water for this event.

Each of these businesses highlighted the dynamic and entrepreneurial spirit of the Los Baños community, leaving a lasting impression on the Indonesian delegation.

STRENGTHENING TIES AND FORGING NEW CONNECTIONS

In addition to the lunch and business showcase, the delegation visited IRRI’s where the Rice Gene Bank is located, and toured the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). These visits provided valuable insights into the region’s contributions to research, innovation, and sustainable development.

PCCI-Los Baños emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for collaboration between the two nations through this event. “We warmly welcome partnerships that bring mutual growth and development,” stated Ms. Balicao.