07/02/2025
Tambo Meets Crunch: Sheallio Turns Bamboo Shoots Into a Snack Sensation
Have you ever thought about indulging in chips made from bamboo shoots, or "tambo"?
SHEALLIO, a business venture that offers a new taste of chips that were made of tambo, is a product that is interconnected with agribusiness, a commercial side of agriculture that includes the production, distribution, and marketing of agricultural products. It is also the focus of the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship under the College of Business and Management of ASU-Banga Main Campus.
It all began as a lighthearted idea. Hans, one of the co-owners, jokingly suggested transforming bamboo shoots into chips, inspired by the abundance of tambo and its agricultural roots. What started as a playful thought quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business venture. As the concept evolved, they saw the potential to create something truly uniqueโa flavorful snack for every palate.
Officially launched in September 2024, the journey from concept to market was anything but simple. The production process involved numerous trials and errors before achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The path was challengingโa completely novel idea meant that there was no established blueprint for creating tambo chips. Yet, after much persistence and experimentation, the owners perfected their recipe, and their vision took root.
Tambo Chips is owned by a group of 4th-year students who are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, namely, Sheryl Rose Z. Zubiaga, Hans Lester P. Prado, Jove Mark N. Ruzgal, Junel S. Aurelio, and Earl Daven Pancubila.
Running a business and being a student is a matter of commitment. Countless hindrances, obstacles, and unnecessary circumstances may happen along the journey with this industry. With the brain behind this venture, they got to manage their time wisely as a business owner and a student. Having the fire in their hearts to create a wide space of time in prioritizing both academics and the market is a powerful tool to balance such matters, and as for these individuals, they are nailing it.
"As a student and young business owner, efficient time management is crucial for both business owners and students to succeed. Additionally, I make a master calendar that allots specific times for personal, professional, and study activities. However, preserving mental and physical vitality is just as important as productivity when it comes to time management. I place a high value on taking care of myself, getting enough sleep, working out frequently, and setting aside time for relaxation and meditation. I was able to balance my commercial and educational pursuits by putting these techniques into practice," Mr. Jove Mark shared his experience.
"Working on bamboo shoot chips means the production process takes up a significant amount of my time, but given the fact that I still have other commitments, managing my time and figuring ways to balance production tasks with other responsibilities became essential. Iโve learned how to set priorities, organize my day-to-day tasks, and make sure that nothing falls behind,โ Sheryl Rose said when asked about her time management as a student and business owner.
Since its launch four months ago, Sheallio has been steadily growing, receiving a flood of orders from customers who are intrigued by the unique and distinct flavors of their chips. Many are returning for more, while others are eager to try the product for the first time. Currently, Sheallio offers two tantalizing flavors: cheese and barbecueโthe latter being a crowd favorite.
For budding entrepreneurs out there, hereโs some invaluable advice from the team:
"I learned that persistency, adaptability, and making mistakes are keys to success. By being vulnerable and authentic, we can show others that entrepreneurship is a path to a successful destination." - Jove Mark
"We can inspire others to start a business at a young age by proving and showing them that it is possible, regardless of age or experience. By being their source of support and good examples, you can empower others that it is the first step toward their entrepreneurial dreams." -Hans
"Starting something new takes a lot of courage, especially at a young age. By sharing my journey, including the challenges and failures we faced, I hope to help others see setbacks as part of the process and not as reasons to give up." -Sheryl Rose
For those creative minds and imaginations, it will always last and exist in an infinite amount of time, like the tambo chips, where uniqueness is perennial.
Bamboo shoots, those young, vibrant clumps of bamboo, symbolize growth and renewalโa fitting metaphor for this ambitious venture. Just like the bamboo, Sheallio continues to grow and evolve, ever-reaching for the sky.
Article | Allyanna Faith Galan
Photos | Riagil Trinidad
Layout | Jay Rick Prado