Mekeni Food Corporation, a homegrown and multi-awarded food company, formally opened its newly renovated flagship factory outlet in Porac, Pampanga, the place where the business started and flourished. 

Called the Mekeni Marketplace, the store stands in the same place where founders Felix and Meding Garcia first envisioned the family business.

Photo shows Mekeni Food Corporation’s Executive Officers and their family with key business partners and employees.

“For all of us at Mekeni, especially our family, the opening of Mekeni Marketplace in Barangay Balubad is definitely a heartwarming and special occasion. Tatay Felix and Imang Meding started their dream in this town, and 35 years later, we are still here with a larger and better store to serve our community,” said Mekeni President Prudencio Garcia.

The new Mekeni Marketplace is distinguished by its modern design. The interior has furnishings and elements that give off a refreshing and homey feel. The spacious design and waiting area also allow customers to shop conveniently and safely. Overall, the store exudes simplicity and the Filipino warmth that customers have come to identify with the brand. 

The Mekeni Marketplace’s new and homey interior.

The store offers Mekeni family favorites such as Picnic Hotdog, GoLite Gluten-free Chicken Longanisa; and Classic Sweet and Tamis-Alat Tocino. It also has sections for ready-to-cook and fresh meat products that are perfect for every Filipino family meal.

According to Garcia, Mekeni’s growth is largely due to the relationships that they have nurtured over the years with loyal stakeholders and customers. 

“With the launch of a new marketplace, we are anticipating a bigger and brighter future. This is a symbol that we remain steadfast in our mission to create more fruitful partnerships and to uplift the lives of our communities, especially during these challenging times,” concluded Garcia. 

In partnership with the provincial government of Pampanga and Pampanga Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (PAMCHAM), Mekeni achieved its target to fully vaccinate nearly 100% of its workforce before the year ends.

Recently, Mekeni employees received their second dose of COVID-19 vaccine during the continuation of the company’s COVID-19 vaccination rollout.

"By fully vaccinating our employees, we can keep our workplace safe and healthy for all our stakeholders including their families,” said Mekeni President Pruds Garcia. “We expect that the following days will be hectic and full of festivities as the holiday season comes in full swing, and this is our way to ensure that our employees can observe this season of joy and celebrate with one less thing to worry about.”

Mekeni continuously commits to create safer workspaces for its workers through its collaboration with the provincial government of Pampanga and PAMCHAM. It is now preparing for the booster shots of its employees and is relentlessly encouraging and educating unvaccinated employees.

Fully vaccinated Mekeni employees display their vaccination cards as they pose for a photo.

"The safety of our people is one of our top priorities in Mekeni. We are committed to protecting their health, and we hope that our efforts will continue to emphasize the urgency and importance of vaccination," Garcia concluded.

Last October 22, four Pampanga-based home and shelter were filled with joy when Mekeni employees donated groceries, snacks, and other gift packs to them.

Continuing their annual tradition, Mekeni visited Munting Tahanan ng Nazareth, Duyan ni Maria, Children’s Home of Immaculate Mary, and Bahay Pag-ibig.

Employees from Mekeni led by Marilou Uy, Head of HR and Exports (1st from left), during the gift-giving activity at Munting Tahanan ni Nazareth.

"Sharing and giving hope to others, even in small ways, has long been a valued culture in Mekeni. Every year, our employees voluntarily open their hearts and wallets to raise donations so that we can continue this meaningful tradition of giving. We want to celebrate Christmas by shining light on others and reminding them that there is so much good to look forward to, especially in difficult times like these," said Marilou Uy, Mekeni's head of HR and exports.

Through the employees’ initiative and generosity, Mekeni was able to provide gift packages, health care packages, food items, and groceries to over 200 beneficiaries. The recipients from Children's Home of Immaculate Mary, in return, greeted Mekeni employees with a moving performance.

Mekeni employees arrive at Munting Tahanan ng Nazareth

"We are asked to give back not only to those we love, but more importantly to those who may need a helping hand during these trying times. We all know that even small acts of love and joy can have significant impact on other people's lives. That is why we will continue to engage in events that will inspire and bring a little happiness to our beneficiaries and communities,” added Uy.

Groceries, food items, and sanitary supplies donated by Mekeni employees in Bahay Pag-ibig

Even with COVID-19 restrictions still present, Mekeni continued giving back to these institutions. They did not let the present situation hinder their mission to uplift the spirits of the beneficiaries.

According to Uy, everyone in the community and around the world has suffered as a result of the global pandemic, and Mekeni ought to do something about it. Mekeni believes that by taking this simple initiative and doing something nice for their beneficiaries, they would be able to brighten their day.

“Mekeni will continue to give hope and make efforts to serve in the communities, provide opportunities, and improve the quality of life of those around them especially after the holidays are over,” concluded Uy.