The Story of Agahan Bakery
By: Lloyd Gonzales
Back in 2021, I had a vision: to open a bakery for everyone, using local Philippine produce, especially from Bicol. I’d use my culinary skills and set up shop in Sipocot, a town close to my childhood memories.
Surrounded by one of the tallest coconut trees in the Philippines, Sipocot is home to passionate farmers who often sell their produce directly to their neighbours. These people inspired me as a young chef, showing me their unwavering passion for growing their own food without expecting much in return.
A friend of my father, who owned a large farm, would often give us fruits, pandan leaves and more for free. Their generosity and kindness truly touched me. As a chef, I wanted to represent their well-grown produce and dedicate it to them with my heart.
That’s how Agahan came to be.
I started Agahan in April 2022 and quickly became a familiar face in Sipocot, known as the “Tindero of the Bakery” whenever I visit the centro. It was a wonderful feeling to know I was making a difference. Our menu featured the famous pan de coco, the Agahan Pandesal made with coconut milk, Saba Spanish bread, champorado donut and pandan roll. All the Saba, coconuts, pandan and tablea came from local farmers, some of whom barely knew the value of their products.
It was a rewarding experience working with them, especially for all the people and my loved ones who supported me throughout the process. However, I couldn’t continue my journey with these incredible people. My personal life was too difficult at the time, with many challenges and problems that I couldn’t handle. I suffered from depression, which made it hard for me to keep going.
Despite the setbacks, I’m still determined to pursue my passion for food. I’ll keep pushing forward, even if it means taking it one step at a time. In 2024, I had to issue an apology and formally resign. For me, it simply meant saying goodbye, which I detest. Agahan was my dream and a dream for those who inspired it. I don’t believe silence was the best course of action. Agahan and its creators hold a special place in my heart, a place that will remain with me wherever I go.
Even in 2026, with my own family, that dream continues to live on. It ignited anew when I saw my four-month-old daughter holding a pan de coco with a huge smile. This moment reignited my pursuit of this dream, which isn’t just about Agahan but also about having my daughter and wife by my side forever.
While living in Europe was challenging, especially missing my daughter’s milestones, I sought signs and visions from God. This picture of my daughter with a pan de coco was a sign of his response. Now that these signs are concrete, I’m pursuing and continuing what I started. I’m bringing Agahan back, but this time with my family.
The return of Agahan 2.0 is special to me because it’s a result of endless discernment and prayers from God. He ignited and guided me. Agahan 2.0 is also a divine bridge to reunite with my daughter and wife for good.