In the heart of Cebu City, a remarkable food phenomenon has captured the attention of hungry locals and social media users alike. At Fuente Osmeña Circle, long queues form nightly as people wait patiently to taste sisig from an unconventional source - a motorcycle transformed into a fully functional mobile kitchen.
From Delivery Driver to Sisig Entrepreneur
The man behind this viral success is Junel Candinato, a 33-year-old former food delivery driver who has turned his two-wheeled vehicle into a thriving food business. Every evening except Saturdays, Junel begins his two-hour journey carrying an impressive 30 kilograms of carefully packed ingredients and equipment.
His mobile setup includes coolers, a griddle, a modular counter, and all the tools needed to prepare his signature sizzling sisig. Despite the heavy, unbalanced load and exhausting work, Junel perseveres night after night with a simple but powerful motivation: providing for his family.
"I do this for my family," Junel shared in a SunStar Lifestyle interview on November 24, 2025. "I have three kids. Everything I do, every effort I make, is for them."
The Power of Community Support
Junel's journey began modestly by building a community of fellow riders who became his earliest customers. "Before quitting as a delivery rider, my customers were mostly my fellow riders," he recalled. "I would cook ahead, pack the food, and when it sold out, I'd deliver for my previous employer."
Even after leaving his job to focus on his food venture, Junel's former colleagues continue to support him. They help set up his stall and assist with cooking, demonstrating the strong bonds within the rider community. His business path hasn't been smooth - he started selling sisig at a nearby salon in the Fuente area until a fast-food chain asked him to leave. He has now relocated to Rajah Park Hotel, setting up near a pizza place.
Social Media Amplifies Success
The turning point came when vlogger and friend Jake S. Duarte documented Junel's journey through his Facebook channel "saz tv." "I just wanted to give him a chance to be seen, to maybe trend like other local heroes," Jake told SunStar Lifestyle. "If Manila has its Diwata Pares, Cebu now has Junel's sisig."
The social media coverage brought an influx of new customers, including curious foreigners who join the long lines waiting for his famous sisig. "Because of him, people now know I'm selling here," Junel expressed gratefully. "I offer him payment, but he's very kind and refuses. I'm truly grateful to my fellow drivers."
The community support extends beyond social media. Before Junel secured a rented space, friends from the rider community would secure spots for him to set up immediately upon arrival.
Dreaming Bigger for Family and Community
As Christmas approaches, Junel's wishes reflect his humble ambitions. "For this Christmas, I don't wish for much," he reflected. "I just want a stable business, a proper place where my customers can dine comfortably. That's enough for me."
With the warm support of Cebuanos, Junel's success now ripples through his community. He's able to help neighbors who need extra income, with some joining him in grilling and selling, while others assist with packaging.
The heavy load Junel carries on his motorcycle each night represents more than just ingredients - it carries the dreams and support of his family, friends, and neighbors who walk this entrepreneurial journey with him. His story exemplifies how community support and determination can transform a simple motorcycle into a vehicle of hope and sustenance.
