Mekeni takes Filipino flavors to Taiwan in 40th year

TAIWAN — Mekeni Food Corporation is bringing the taste of home to Filipinos in Taiwan while introducing Filipino food favorites to local consumers as the homegrown brand celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Founded in 1986 in Porac, Pampanga, Mekeni marked the milestone through engagements at the OWWA OFW Global Center in Taipei, the Jesus is Lord Olympics and Food Festival in southern Taiwan, and the 2026 World in Pingtung – International Market in Kaohsiung.

The initiatives aim to reconnect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) with familiar Filipino flavors while expanding the brand's reach among international consumers.

“For many Filipinos living abroad, familiar food brings back memories of family, home, and shared traditions,” said Mekeni President Pruds Garcia. He added that bringing the company's products closer to Filipinos in Taiwan reflects its commitment to the families and communities that have supported the brand through the years.

At the OWWA OFW Global Center in Taipei, Mekeni gave Filipinos an opportunity to rediscover familiar food products and enjoy a taste of home despite being far from their families.

Meanwhile, its participation in the Pingtung international market introduced Taiwanese consumers to Filipino favorites, including Picnic Hotdogs and Classic Tocino. The event provided an opportunity to showcase Filipino flavors and encourage cross-cultural appreciation through food.

“Our participation in Taiwan allows us to bring Filipino food closer to our kababayans while introducing our products to new consumers,” said Marilou Uy, Mekeni's assistant vice president for human resources and exports. She said the initiative also helps the company explore market opportunities and share the quality and flavors Filipino families have come to love.

Over four decades, Mekeni has grown from its Pampanga roots into an international brand with a presence in more than 25 countries, carrying forward the legacy of founders Felix and Meding Garcia.

Its 40th anniversary carries the theme “May Kwento sa Bawat Timpla,” highlighting the memories, traditions, and connections created through food.

Through its Taiwan initiatives, Mekeni continues to pursue its vision of becoming a globally trusted Filipino brand, bringing local flavors to overseas communities and new consumers around the world.