In a remarkable story of vision and perseverance, a chemical engineer from Cebu has transformed a humble home-based soap-making operation into a multi-million-peso industry leader. Engr. Leonora B. Salvane recently led her company to receive the prestigious Innovation Leader of the Year award during the 2025 Grand Chamber Awards Night of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI).
From Bohol Hardship to Cebu Enterprise
The journey began in 1994 with a mere P500 capital, a simple baking pan, and Salvane's chemical engineering degree from the University of San Carlos. Born into poverty in Bohol, she intimately understood struggle, but also possessed deep knowledge of chemistry and natural formulations. Working alongside her children, she initially produced about 50 bars of herbal soap per day from her kitchen.
"Life was hard," Salvane recalled of her early days. "But I prayed hard so I could practice my profession." That prayer and determination laid the foundation for what would become a certified manufacturing powerhouse.
Building a Modern, Certified Manufacturing Powerhouse
From those modest origins, the company embarked on a path of steady growth. Today, it operates a modern facility boasting certifications that signal its commitment to quality and global standards. These include approvals from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Halal authorities, and the ISO 22716 certification for Good Manufacturing Practice in cosmetics.
Product innovation has been central to its expansion. Starting with papaya and carrot soaps, the brand successfully diversified into skin care, sun protection, and, in 2018, a full color cosmetics line. Salvane's belief that a product successful in Cebu could succeed anywhere guided this strategic market adaptation.
Empowering Communities Through Business and Education
Salvane's vision extended beyond factory walls into community empowerment. She pioneered a business venture model designed to encourage women to pursue entrepreneurship and build sustainable livelihoods. This philosophy naturally evolved into a focus on education.
In 2014, together with her husband Rogelio Salvane Sr., she established an academy that integrates entrepreneurship, science, and technology into its curriculum. Their commitment to hands-on learning culminated in the April 2022 inauguration of a massive recreational and events center. This over P60 million facility includes hotel rooms, pools, a function hall, and a restaurant, serving as a live training ground for hospitality management students.
Her leadership has garnered numerous accolades, including the Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneur award at the 2025 Go Negosyo Women’s Summit, which honors women breaking boundaries in business.
The Team Behind the Success
The company's leadership team, a blend of family and seasoned professionals, continues to drive its mission. Key executives include Chairman Engr. Leonora B. Salvane; President and CEO Rogelio B. Salvane Jr.; Vice President and COO Jellie Marie S. Villamor; and Finance and Administrative Officer Niña Mae Jasmine Salvane. The operational strength is further supported by Brand and Marketing Manager Bruce Villamor, Plant Manager Engr. Richmond C. Pepito, QA Head Jezrel Rabanes, and QC Officer Melchor Avendaño.
When asked for the secret to her enduring success, Salvane points to a core set of values: passion for excellence, hard work, humility, faith, and sharing. "These values remind me that my abilities are gifts meant to be shared," she explained.
Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is straightforward and powerful: "Take the first step, believe in your vision and do not be afraid of competition." From a P500 start-up to an award-winning industry leader, Leonora B. Salvane's journey stands as a testament to where that first step, backed by vision and grit, can lead.
