Golden Arrow Food Enterprises: A Legacy of Filipino Delicacies and Innovation
February 6, 2025
(2 months ago)
For more than half a century, Golden Arrow Food Enterprises has been a proud purveyor of Filipino native biscuits and delicacies, carrying a rich heritage of craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. From a small-town bakery to an internationally recognized manufacturer, the company’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and a deep love for Filipino food culture.
Humble Beginnings in Laguna (1965-1989)
The story begins in 1965 in the quaint town of Liliw, Laguna, when three among nine siblings—Juan, Esteban, and Adelaida Cordoves—established Ideal Bakery. Their small shop quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to its freshly baked breads and pastries.
As the years passed, the business saw changes. In 1989, Adelaida retired, leaving the bakery in the hands of her two brothers. The bakery was rebranded as Johnny’s Bakery, marking the first of many transformations that would shape the company’s future.
Expanding Horizons: From Bakery to Manufacturing (1993-2003)
By 1993, Esteban had decided to explore other ventures, while Juan’s wife, Norma, took over operations. Under her leadership, the bakery diversified its product line beyond breads, introducing native biscuits, candies, and delicacies—a move that would define the company’s identity for years to come.
In 1995, another pivotal shift occurred as the business expanded into trading bakery and packaging materials, further solidifying its presence in the food industry.
Recognizing the need for a more fitting identity, Juan and Norma renamed the enterprise in 2003, calling it Norman’s Bakery and Trading after their only son, Norman John.
Breaking into the National and International Market (2005-2010)
The mid-2000s marked Golden Arrow’s transition from a local bakery to a national and global player. The company participated in its first National Trade Fair at SM Megamall in 2005, followed by an even bigger milestone—joining the International Food Exhibition at the World Trade Center in Pasay City under the Department of Trade and Industry’s Partner Region Program in 2007.
With growing demand, the company also became a manufacturer for exporters, bringing Filipino delicacies to international markets.
In 2008, a new era began when Norma and Juan retired, passing the business to their son. The company was renamed Golden Arrow Food Enterprises, with a sharper focus on manufacturing homemade Filipino biscuits and delicacies.
Government support soon followed. In 2009, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) granted the company a SET-UP loan to improve machinery and packaging, enabling Golden Arrow to indirectly export under the Sir Norman Baker brand. By 2010, its products were already available in supermarkets and department stores nationwide.
Recognition and Growth (2016-2023)
The company’s dedication to quality and innovation did not go unnoticed. In 2016, Golden Arrow received the prestigious GAWAD SAKA Award from the Department of Agriculture Region IV-A. That same year, the DOST provided a second SET-UP loan to help the company acquire new machinery, further enhancing production capabilities.
Even amid challenges, growth remained constant. In 2020, Golden Arrow completed the fourth and final phase of its plant expansion, marking a significant milestone in its manufacturing journey.
The Future: Expanding and Innovating (2023-Present)
Today, Golden Arrow Food Enterprises continues to evolve, focusing on marketing, management education, product improvement, and distribution expansion—both locally and internationally. With a legacy spanning over five decades, the company remains committed to delivering authentic, high-quality Filipino delicacies to the world.
As Golden Arrow moves forward, one thing remains the same: its deep-rooted passion for bringing Filipino heritage and flavors to every table.
Looking Ahead
Golden Arrow Food Enterprises is more than just a business—it’s a family legacy built on tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. With its sights set on further growth, the company is poised to continue shaping the future of Filipino food, both at home and abroad.
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