What started as a humble barbecue stand in Quiapo has become a symbol of excellence in crafting premium Filipino snacks.
Filipino cuisine has long been overlooked on the global stage, often ranked among the least favored. At R. Lapid’s, we see this not as a setback, but as a calling—to champion our flavors, uplift our heritage, and change the narrative around Filipino food, one snack at a time.
Founded by Rey C. Lapid and his wife Violeta, two visionaries driven by family and community, R. Lapid’s Premium Chicharon stands on the belief that we rise best when we rise together. Their strength lies in their drive to provide excellent quality products while maintaining high standards from raw materials and ensuring safety during production up to delivery of goods to a growing number of satisfied customers. Guided by our “5M” principles—Malinis, Maayos, Maganda, Mapagmalasakit, and Malikhain—we uphold the highest standards in crafting premium chicharon, while instilling pride and trust in every Filipino flavor we share with the world.
Filipino cuisine has long been overlooked on the global stage, often ranked among the least favored. At R. Lapid’s, we see this not as a setback, but as a calling—to champion our flavors, uplift our heritage, and change the narrative around Filipino food, one snack at a time.
Founded by Rey C. Lapid and his wife Violeta, two visionaries driven by family and community, R. Lapid’s Premium Chicharon stands on the belief that we rise best when we rise together. Their strength lies in their drive to provide excellent quality products while maintaining high standards from raw materials and ensuring safety during production up to delivery of goods to a growing number of satisfied customers. Guided by our “5M” principles—Malinis, Maayos, Maganda, Mapagmalasakit, and Malikhain—we uphold the highest standards in crafting premium chicharon, while instilling pride and trust in every Filipino flavor we share with the world.
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Our Vision
To be a world-renowned chicharon brand—bringing proudly Filipino snacks to every corner of the world, without losing the heart that started it all.
Our Purpose
We believe that food has the power to connect generations, bring people together, and carry forward a legacy that started in a small stall in Quiapo.
Our Mission
Our mission is simple: to delight our customers with premium Filipino food that’s flavorful, accessible, and served with genuine care. We’re committed to creating a safe, empowering workplace, building strong partnerships, and making a positive impact in our communities.
We carry this mission through everything we do
We keep it Malinis: clean and consistent in our people, food, service, spaces, and every detail of what, who, when, and how we serve.
We run things Maayos: organized and efficient, with systems and teamwork that keep every part of our operations moving forward.
We make things Maganda: ensuring beauty and quality in presentation, from flavors and products to our stores and customer experiences.
We are Mapagmalasakit: showing care and responsibility for our customers, our teams, our partners, and the communities we serve.
And we stay Malikhain: always innovating and creating new ways to elevate Filipino food and service to the next level.
Our Core Values
Our core values guide everything we do—inside the kitchen, across our stores, and throughout our community. We act with Responsibility, stay grounded in Loyalty, and always aim to be Accommodative to both our customers and team. We carry a spirit of Positivity, uphold Integrity in all our dealings, lead with Discipline, and find purpose in Spirituality.
Our Community
Our Community
You’ll find the R. Lapid’s community at family gatherings, on road trip stopovers, in specialty stores, and in thoughtful pasalubong bags. It’s a loyal following built on shared memories, honest flavor, and a brand that has grown with them through the years. From lolo to apo, from first bite to favorite ulam, R. Lapid’s Premium Chicharon continues to be a shared taste across generations.
OUR HISTORY & MILESTONES
1974-1982
1974-1982
The business started by Filipino entrepreneur Mr.Rey Cruz Lapid along with his wife Violeta dela Fuente at a small stall carrying the name LAPID'S BARBECUE,at R.Hidalgo St.Quiapo Manila
Main Line of Products - Pork and Chicken Barbecue.Also selling tocino, longanisa,paksiw na lechon, menudo, adobo, asado, atchara at chicharon which were being sold to retail stores, movie houses,supermarkets, office and bars.
Store was such a hit as evidence by patronizing customers (kinukuyog at pinagkakaguluhan) and selling about 120-200 kgs, or around 4,000 sticks of barbecue a day.
1978
1978
Registered the business name EL REY COCKTAIL CHICHARON with business in Sampaloc Manila.
1979-1981
1979-1981
Rey opened a Filipino restaurant, with the name LAPID'S Restaurant Bar-b-que & Filipino Food, in San Francisco California, USA. Being the over-all and only manager/worker in the restaurant, restaurant didn't last long.
While still in the USA, Rey worked at Auto Specialists Manufacturing Corp. in St. Joseph, Michigan.
1981
1981
Violy worked as an agent in a company selling machine spare parts to big companies and at the same time they put up a t-shirt making and printing in their house at Sampaloc, Manila. While Rey also worked into sales as trader of construction materials such as pebble stones and Narra woods.
1982
1982
Mr. Rey C. Lapid with the trade name EL REY COCKTAIL CHICHARON was registered as a Food Processing Industry under the NACIDA (National Cottage Industries Development Authority) law.
Opened a store in front of their house in Sampaloc, Manila to sell fresh meats, crispy pata, longganisa, tocino, peanuts and others.
1985
1985
Set-up a carinderia with the name LAPID'S Barbecue selling chicharon, bbq, and other lutong bahay Filipino food at Jopson Supermarket in Bustillos, Sampaloc, Manila
Late 80's
Late 80's
El Rey Cocktail Chicharon closed down but then the couple didn't stop pursuing another business which is the KINGSTONE Trading and Metal Fabrication.
1991
1991
R. LAPID'S CHICHARON & BARBECUE Restaurant business was re-opened at G. Tuazon corner D. Santiago St., in Sampaloc, Manila
1995
1995
The success of Kingstone Trading and Metal Fabrication had led to the establishment of the now R. LAPID'S CHICHARON & BARBECUE and moved its operation to Pres. Quirino Ave., Paco, Manila where it innovated and standardized the system of processing chicharon and upgraded its product quality. It also added Chicken and Pork Barbecue to its product line. A food processing factory, warehouse and office were set-up in the place.
1996
1996
R.Lapid's Chicharon & Barbecue was Included in the file of the National Library as Registered Copyright Claimant; the slogan "Laging Bagong Luto" was born; To meet the expectations of its consumers, R. Lapid's consistently serves deliciously tasty barbecue and crispy newly puffed chicharon at its best quality. The taste of the vinegar that go with the chicharon was improved by cooking and adding fresh garlic. Additional "chili" chicharon was offered to its customers and was accepted with notable commendations.
Began importing raw materials from Korea, United States, Europe, Canada, and other neighboring countries.
1996
1996
Opened its first branch at G. Tuazon, Sampaloc, Manila and 10 more outlets were opened.
1997
1997
First mall outlet was opened at SM Southmall, Las Pinas where people lined-up to have a taste of the R.Lapid's Chicharon "Laging Bagong Luto"
Received the "Gintong Sikap Award" as Outstanding Businessman from the Federation of Filipino Consumers, Inc. in recognition of its remarkable increase of sales in its first mall outlet at SM South Mall, Las Piñas. The award was the key in the development of good relationship with the SM Management
1998
1998
10 more SM outlets were opened and received a Certificate of Recognition from SM Management for Consistent Observance of Cleanliness, Safety and Sanitation
1999
1999
Opened the first Provincial outlet in Calamba, Laguna followed by outlets in San Fernando, Pampanga, Baguio City, Tagaytay and Lipa, Batangas
1999
1999
"Free Delivery" service was introduced to reach customers at the convenience of their homes
2000
2000
A Certificate of Registration was issued by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) for the protection of Trademark: Analysis of Products' Nutritional Facts were conducted and the tag lines High Protein, Low Carbohydrates, Less Cholesterol were introduced as part of the company's marketing campaign for the health benefits of R. LAPID'S Chicharon.
2002
2002
Pinoy Meals was first introduced to promote that chicharon products is also perfect combination with rice.These Pinoy Meals include Pork BBQ with Rice, Chicken BBQ with Rice, Adobo with Rice, Asado with Rice, Chicharon w/ Laman with Rice and Chicharon Bulaklak w/ Rice. All served with Chicharon cocktail and "kamatis with bagoong" on the sides.
2003
2003
Registered the domain name rlapids.com.ph and developed the first website for online presence
2004
2004
Inaugurated a more improved, modern and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified plant facility located at Lawang Bato, Valenzuela City
2004
2004
R. Lapid's Character named, "Chicha" was created and a Certificate of Registration was issued by the Intellectual Property Office on 2008. In 2015, "Chicha Mascot" was introduced to the public
2004
2004
The mark "MANILA FRIES" was created and filed at Intellectual Property Office and on 2007, its Certificate of Registration was issued. This brand will be used as an international name for chicharon of R. LAPID'S
2005
2005
First gas station outlet opened at Petron Macapagal Pasay
2005
2005
First franchise outlet was opened at Petron NLEX Balagtas Bulacan
2007
2007
Factory expansion in Valenzuela city was inaugurated that includes recreational facilities for the employees such as jogging and basketball court, a 3-door housing for pioneer employees and a maintenance area that includes the fabrication of R.Lapid's food carts.
2007
2007
First outlet outside Luzon was opened at the Queen City of the South, Cebu. The challenge to compete with prominent brands in the city that is popular for chicharon makers comes the idea of opening an outlet in the Queen City of the South (CEBU) on July 2007. This was followed by opening addtional outlets in the area to impart Cebuanos to change their ways of eating kind of chicharon.
2009
2009
Registered as R.L. FOODS CORP. with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In view of our commitment to venture globally and internationally in the field of food business and our vision to maintain high quality of products and services, change of classification from Sole Proprietorship to Corporation known as R. L. FOODS CORP., with the founder as President of the Company, has been established.
2010
2010
New business venture : A private resort hotel, R. LAPID'S Resortel was inaugurated in a place famous for its hot spring - Pansol Calamba Laguna.
2010
2010
Opened an outlet in one of the world's top sand beach destinations - Boracay
2011
2011
Recipient of the PLDT MVP Bossing Award that serves as a glowing tribute to local business leaders who embody the Filipino entrepreneurial spirit, empower the country’s growth through their economic contributions along with the tenacity to survive and revolutionize their business operations using the latest technology solutions.
2011
2011
R. LAPID'S Farmland was inaugurated to be self-sufficient in product needs where some of the natural ingredients of R. LAPID'S products are being grown.
2012
2012
Inauguration of R. LAPID'S Resortel II, a perfect getaway venue for family and friends outside the Metro
2013
2013
Registered R. Lapid's Chicharon and Barbecue Corp. Trademark to the United States Patent and Trademark Office
2014
2014
In celebration of its 40th Anniversary, R. LAPID'S is back in the place where the former factory and office was, at Pres. Quirino Ave., Paco, Manila, wherein a new concept store with dining and additional products were launched.
2014
2014
Two R. LAPID'S CHICHARON & BARBECUE Jingles were composed. (Registered and deposit with the National Library of the Philippines through Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines in 2014)
2014
2014
- R.Lapid's Chicharon & Barbecue growing together for 40 years, The achievements of the company are the results of combined hard work of the management and all employees. Working as one whole family for the road ahead. 1974 - 2014 through high quality products and services. "Aim more through continuous innovations"
- This anniversary celebration reminds us on how success and trials have moulded us to become what we are today. As we face a new era, we once again renew our commitment to upholding products excellence, quality service and integrity. It is our fervent hope that in everything we engage in - then now and in the coming years - we will be able to bring honour to God and to the Filipino nation.
2014
2014
Go Negosyo 50 Entrepreneurs of Passion ,How Big Dreams & Good Ideas Became Great Businesses.
2014
2014
"THE LEADERS' PROFILE" aim to promote culture, arts, education and social episodes in history to serve as record, a manuscript that documents and honors the exceptional talents, achievements and intellects of Filipino men and women in their own respective field of expertise.
2014
2014
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, the company started supporting annually the Pinalagad Elementary School in Valenzuela City by giving back and sharing company's blessings.
2015
2015
R.LAPID'S launched Manila Fries Chicharon, a metallized pack with shelf life up to 8 months that is ready for export worldwide. Currently available in Dubai UAE, Qatar, Mercury Drugstores and Local Supermarkets. Same delicious taste, same crunchiness, same healthy fun snack.
2015
2015
- R.LAPID'S MINIMART was inaugurated on November 2015, a wholesale and retail convenience store that offers a wide variety of basic goods and R.Lapid's products at a very affordable price
- A bigger and more innovated warehouse of Kingstone Trading and Metal Fabrication was also inaugurated
2015
2015
R.Lapid's partners with Gawad Kalinga in building sustainable and empowered communities at Dasmariñas Cavite
2015
2015
In support of Philippine Red Cross' Saving Lives Together, R.Lapid's donated P1.00 per chicharon pack sold in all stores nationwide
2016
2016
R.LAPID's AGRIFARM located in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija was inaugurated in partnership with Charoen Pokphand Foods Corporation, a leading Agro-Industrial & Food Conglomerate in Thailand. Another new business venture as a hog grower.
2016
2016
Athletes of R.Lapid's in Triathlon, Basketball and Dragon boat have proven the effective health benefits of eating chicharon by consistently winning awards in their respective sports. R.Lapid's Chicharon was also one of the official recovery foods in various sporting events.
2017
2017
R.Lapid’s changed the way people celebrated Valentine’s Day by introducing R.Lapid’s Chicharon Bulaklak Bouquet.
2018
2018
First outlet in Mindanao was opened at S&R Matina Davao City . It was such a big hit that another store was opened in Agdao Davao City after 3 months.
2019
2019
R.Lapid's Chicharon & Barbecue growing together for another milestone of reaching 45 years in Business
2019
2019
R.Lapid's Chicharon and Barbecue makes Philippines History for Largest manufacturer of Chicharon at the World Trade Center during History Channel's History Con.
2019
2019
Established R.Lapid's Food Court located in Clark Global City, a fast-food with 8 kiosks offering wide array of cuisines making it a good spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
2020
2020
Received HACCP and GMP Certification from SGS Philippines for compliance to HACCP Codex Alimentarius Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points System and guidelines and their application to CAC/ RCP-1-1969, Rev.4 (2002)
2020
2020
Celebrated 46 years in the Food Industry, despite the pandemic R.L. Foods Corp has proven to be one of the basic foods loved by the people.
2020
2020
R.Lapid's Chicharon and Barbecue partners with Wilcon Home Depot by offering Manila Fries Chicharon at The MeatPlace, Wilcon's Official café restaurant.
2021
2021
R.Lapid's & Potato Corner Product Collaboration
Your favorite R. Lapid ́s Chicharon is now flavored with Potato Corner ́s goodness! For the best- tasting snack ever!
Available in Barbecue and Sour Cream flavor!
TODAY
TODAY
AT PRESENT, the company is continuously expanding and modernizing its plant facilities, developing more products, making its systems more effective and harnessing more the capabilities of its human resources.
In view of company's commitment to venture globally and internationally in the field of good business and the vision to maintain high quality of products and services, change of classification from Sole Proprietorship to Corporation known as R.L. FOODS CORP. has been established.
R.L. Foods Corp. targets to be ISO Certified soon and be able to offer R.Lapid's Chicharon worldwide.
AFFILIATIONS
Member
PAMPI, Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc.
GS1 Philippines
PCCI, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry
PHILFOODEX, Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organizations, Inc.
PHILEXPORT
Accredited
Accredited
- NMIS, National Meat Inspection Service
- BAI, Bureau of Animal Industry
- FDA, Food and Drugs Administration
- DA, Department of Agriculture
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
1997
Mr. Rey Lapid received the "Gintong Sikap Award" for being an "Outstanding Businessman" by
the Federation of Filipino Consumers, Inc.
FEBRUARY 1999
"Certificate of Recognition" for consistent observance of cleanliness, safety and sanitation
inside the leased area for the month of FEBRUARY 1999 ‒ SM Food Court-Ortigas
MARCH 1999
"Certificate of Recognition" for consistent observance of cleanliness, safety and sanitation
inside the leased area for the month of MARCH 1999 ‒ SM Food Court-Ortigas
APRIL 1999
"Certificate of Recognition" for consistent observance of cleanliness, safety and sanitation
inside the leased area for the month of APRIL 1999 ‒ SM Food Court-Makati
MAY 1999
"Certificate of Recognition" for consistent observance of cleanliness, safety and sanitation
inside the leased area for the month of MAY 1999 ‒ SM Food
AUGUST 1999
"Certificate of Recognition" for consistent observance of cleanliness, safety and sanitation
inside the leased area for the month of AUGUST 1999 ‒ SM Food Court-Ortigas
DECEMBER 1999
"Certificate of Recognition" for consistent observance of cleanliness, safety and sanitation
inside the leased area for the month of DECEMBER 1999 ‒ SM Food Court-Ortigas
2000
Mr. Rey Lapid received the "Gintong Sikap Award" for being an "Outstanding Business
Executive" by the Federation of Filipino Consumers, Inc
2003
"National Consumers Excellence Awardee" for being the "Most Outstanding Chicharon Maker"
2004
"National Consumers Excellence Awardee" for being the "Most Outstanding Manufacturer of
Chicharon & Barbecue"
2004
"National Shoppers' Choice Annual Awardee" for being the "No. 1 Chicharon (National)"
2004
"Consumers' Choice Awardee" for being the Most Outstanding Chicharon Maker
2004
"National Buyers' Choice Awardee" for being the Most Outstanding Chicharon
2005
"National Consumers Excellence Awardee" for being the "Most Outstanding Manufacturer of
Chicharon & Barbecue"
2005
"National Shoppers' Choice Annual Awardee" for being the "No. 1 Chicharon (National)"
2005
"People's Brand Awardee" for being the "No. 1 Chicharon Brand"
2005
"Global Awards for Marketing Excellence" for being the "Most Outstanding Chicharon
Manufacturer (National Awards)
2006
"Global Brands (Seal of Quality) Awardee" for "Excellent Chicharon Brand"
2006
"Philippine Business Excellence Awardee" for being the No. 1 Chicharon
2006
"ARAP Choice Awardee" for being the Most Outstanding Chicharon
2010
"2010 CONSUMER CHOICE AWARDEE" for "Best Chicharon Maker"
2011
"MVP BOSSING AWARD" Retail Trade and Finance Category"
2012
"STARBRAND PHILIPPINES BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS" for "Best Chicharon Maker"
2018
"STARBRAND PHILIPPINES BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS" for "Best Chicharon Maker"aHistory Channel's History Maker for "Largest Chicharon Manufacturer"
2018-2020
Go Negosyo Outstanding Mentor
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