Filipina ‘Chocolate Queen’ brings Cebu’s rich cacao heritage to San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO – The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco welcomed Filipino entrepreneur and “Chocolate Queen” of Cebu, Raquel Toquero-Choa, during her courtesy call on July 30 at the Philippine Center. Toquero-Choa is the founder of The Chocolate Chamber (TCC), a homegrown brand that champions artisanal chocolate products rooted in Filipino heritage and tradition.
Deputy Consul General Maria Paz Cortes received Toquero-Choa and her team, who were in the Bay Area for business meetings and their recently concluded event “Brushstrokes of Worship & Wonder: A Chocolate Art Experience,” held July 26-27 at Michael Fine Art San Francisco. The immersive showcase combined cacao appreciation with Filipino artistry.
Joining Deputy Consul General Cortes during the call were Consul Rowena Pangilinan-Daquipil, head of the Economic Section, and Vice-consul Glaiza Quarteros, head of the Cultural and Community section. Toquero-Choa was accompanied by Edu Pantino, managing partner of TCC.
As part of the visit, Toquero-Choa introduced some of TCC’s chocolate creations and conducted a traditional sikwate (hot chocolate) serving and drinking ritual — offering a taste of the Philippines’ centuries-old cacao heritage. She also shared her aspiration to bring TCC’s unique chocolate experiences to US shores through a future branch and collaborative projects with the diaspora.
Highlighting her strong advocacy for sustainable cacao production, Toquero-Choa emphasized the role of TCC in helping train farmers and working closely with cacao cooperatives in the Philippines. “From soil to soul,” she said, “our mission is to elevate Philippine cacao into a global symbol of heritage, hospitality, and hope.”
The Consulate representatives assured Toquero-Choa of the Consulate’s support in promoting Philippine chocolate and expanding awareness of the country’s rich cacao traditions within the United States and encouraged her to partner with the Consulate for some activities that will help advance her advocacy as well as promote PHL cacao.
The Consulate likewise affirmed its commitment to support Filipino entrepreneurs like Toquero-Choa and looks forward to future collaborations that celebrate Filipino innovation and cultural heritage.
