Home-based

Along Ortigas Avenue one drizzling morning I took this shot on my way to the office. Its an owner-type jeep with an extended contraption at the rear where a number of wooden crates fit.

If you look closely, the crates contain “long-neck” bottles which were actually filled with patis, the salted-fish sauce that makes the Ilocano “dinengdeng” really delectable. From the look of it, the guys on the jeep are on their way to make another delivery to a distribution outlet.

I have seen this delivery vehicle a number of times along Ortigas so I can say that these deliveries may be as regular as clockwork. These guys are possibly home-based entrepreneurs who are making good in the patis business, despite the growing threat of imported brands, notably form Thailand and Vietnam, or even the ever-present competition from the big-time players in the food industry.

I say, stay on guys! Modest investment and equity, loyal and satisfied customers, equally modest returns plus peace of mind and joy in doing something you like to do – good ingredients for a satisfying day.