In the Philippines, having analyzed that a great majority of the businesses in the country are small family-based enterprises, they may be viable endeavors contributing to economic development. Ilocos Norte is known for its chichacorn industry composed of family-based micro and small enterprises.
Chichacorn has become a popular agri-tourism product bought as healthy snacks among the residents, tourists and travelers. The boom of tourism in the province led to the growth of the industry. In order to enable the continuity of these family businesses, it is important to understand the Ilocano family business, to identify the personal traits and cultural values of the Ilocano as entrepreneurs and determine their strengths and weaknesses.
The research design used a qualitative approach to search for meaning – the beginnings of the chichacorn industry, traits and cultural values of the Ilocano entrepreneurs and their strengths and weaknesses that contribute to the sustainability of these family businesses. The entire process is inductive, exploratory and descriptive. The qualitative approach used a case study strategy.
After the interviews were completed, they were transcribed and then forwarded to the respondents for review and approval. It was found out that the chichacorn industry in Paoay, Ilocos Norte is composed of eight family businesses who are relatives up to the third degree of consanguintiy. It was also found out that the chichacorn producers are industrious and hardworking, innovative and resourceful, thrifty, good managers, and have foresight.
The Ilocano family has the necessary traits to become successful in business. These are backed up with the richness of the Ilocano culture. However, in order to survive competition and become sustainable, it has to transform as a family-oriented business into a professionally managed organization
