Personal Investment Leads to Ian’s Bakery

Name of Business: Shania’s Bakeshop
Nature of Business: Wholesale Bakery
Location: Philippines

Ian Alfonso D. Santamaria Jr. is a professional teacher by training, but entrepreneurship became his true calling. Alongside his wife, Ian cofounded Shania’s Bakeshop, a growing bakery business in the Philippines that supplies thousands of products to companies like OTAP CEBU. What began in their home in 2014 has blossomed into a thriving business, operating out of Manila and Quezon with plans for further expansion.

While Ian handles marketing and finance, his wife, Shania, is the mastermind behind the bakery’s recipes. Together, they’ve honed their skills through continuous learning and programs like DTI’s OTOP and KMME. Their commitment to growth and innovation has led to remarkable success, with the bakery now fulfilling 5,000–10,000 orders every other day.

Despite their business achievements, Ian has faced personal challenges. He recalls a time when work-related stress led to anxiety and frustration. “I learned not to pressure myself too much because I knew the Lord would not give me more than I could handle,” he shares. Through self-evaluation and faith, Ian realigned his priorities, focusing on personal well-being and spiritual strength.

This introspective journey helped Ian grow not only as a business leader but also as a community servant. As a Go Negosyo mentor, he shares his entrepreneurial knowledge with others, and his leadership in the Church further exemplifies his commitment to lifting those around him. “To lift others” is central to Ian's mission, and his ability to balance his business success with his service to others has made him a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Ian’s story is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and continuous learning. Through their dedication, Shania’s Bakeshop is thriving, and Ian’s most meaningful investments are the people he’s helped along the way, from employees who completed their education to the MSMEs he’s mentored. “Sometimes, the best investments are intangible,” Ian reflects, highlighting the fulfillment he finds in service as he continues to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams.