ILIGAN CITY (MindaNews / 26 Oct) — “Wow, 25 years! Who would have thought we’d reach this far noh?!” Peppo Stuart del Rosario exclaimed as he welcomed guests to the silver anniversary celebration of their family’s iconic product, Suka Pinakurat, now a household name across the country and beyond. The event marked a significant milestone for the spicy vinegar concoction created by the late Rene Jose B. Stuart del Rosario, Peppo’s father, who initially crafted it from coconut vinegar, chili, and spices. The product, once a humble family venture, has grown into a symbol of Iligan’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. Lito Go, a former classmate now working in Los Angeles, shared, “It’s the only product of Iligan you can buy here, $4.25 per pocket-sized bottle.” Iligan Mayor Frederick Siao expressed pride during the “Pilakurat” celebration at Cheradel Suites, stating, “Suka Pinakurat is more than just a household name. It’s a symbol of what Iliganons can achieve when we believe in our people.” Rene’s journey began in the restaurant and food manufacturing business, where he first introduced pinakurat as a vinegar sauce for wild boar dishes. Facing financial challenges after a heart bypass operation, he gambled his remaining ₱28,000 to launch the product, which quickly gained popularity through word-of-mouth and became a favorite sawsawan (dipping sauce) for Filipinos. Host Carlo Lasiste recalled, “Even with just fried fish, once I dip it in Suka Pinakurat, it becomes a special meal.” Rene’s four children—Atty. Rendo, Peppo, Paul, and Dondon—stepped in to help grow the business, blending their unique skills to ensure its success. Dondon’s business acumen, Paul’s creativity in expanding into craft beer with Fat Pauly’s Hand Crafted Ales and Lagers, Peppo’s technical expertise, and Rendo’s legal prowess in battling copyright infringements all contributed to the brand’s enduring legacy. The family announced the upcoming release of the Suka Pinakurat coffee table book titled “25 Years, 25 Stories,” set to publish in December. The book will highlight the workers who played pivotal roles in the product’s journey, from the mananggiti (coconut wine harvesters) to the bottle washers. This tribute honors the humble beginnings of Suka Pinakurat, a testament to the Stuart del Rosario family’s resilience, innovation, and dedication. (Bobby Timonera / MindaNews)
