By: ALEGRE DE PILIPINAS INTERNATIONAL
Founded in 2021 by Gerardo and Sailyn Dean, Chocs ‘N Boxes Chocolates has quickly established itself as a leading name in the world of artisanal chocolate. What sets the company apart is its unique commitment to combining premium-quality confections with sustainable farming practices. With its roots in Samar, Philippines, the company’s award-winning chocolates are crafted from organic cacao grown on family-owned farms, embodying both excellence in taste and ethical responsibility. In just a few short years, Chocs ‘N Boxes has gained international recognition for its innovative creations, clinching multiple awards at prestigious competitions such as the International Chocolate Awards.
A Legacy of Excellence in Chocolate Craftsmanship
From the moment the company began operations, Chocs ‘N Boxes has focused on one key goal: to create indulgent, hand-crafted confections that delight the palate while supporting sustainable farming practices. The cacao beans used in their chocolates come directly from the company’s farm, Apoy Benit’s Cacao Agricultural Farming, located in the lush, mountainous region of Calbayog City in Samar. The farm is a certified organic facility, free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers, ensuring that the cacao produced is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
Chocs ‘N Boxes emphasizes quality at every stage of production, from the careful tending of cacao trees to the final creation of bonbons, truffles, and other delectable treats in their chocolate shop in Norridge, Illinois. The cacao beans are harvested, fermented, and dried with precision, then shipped to their shop to be transformed into gourmet chocolate. This direct supply chain allows for complete control over the quality of the ingredients and ensures that the flavors are as fresh and vibrant as possible.
Award-Winning Flavors that Push Boundaries
Photo Courtesy: ALEGRE DE PILIPINAS INTERNATIONAL
Chocs ‘N Boxes has made a name for itself by creating chocolates that not only taste extraordinary but also tell a story of cultural heritage and innovation. In 2021-22, the company won several accolades at the International Chocolate Awards – AMERICAS, where their Calamansi Caramel Bonbon secured a Silver medal, followed by Silver for their Bahandi 40% Milk Chocolate and Bronze for their Caramelized Hazelnut Milk Chocolate Dragee. The Calamansi Bonbon, infused with the tangy flavor of the Philippine calamansi fruit, went on to win Bronze at the World Finals in 2022, showcasing the brand’s ability to blend local ingredients with global appeal.
Building on this success, 2023 brought further recognition with their Pili Nut – Dates Squared Praline, Blueberry Compote Lychee Ganache, and Hamili 50% Dark Milk Chocolate Bar all winning Silver awards. Meanwhile, the Kape Krunch Coffee & Pili Nuts Milk Chocolate Bar and the 70% Dark Chocolate with Orange Peel Bar each secured Bronze. Their inventive use of ingredients, such as the locally sourced pili nuts and the aromatic notes of Philippine coffee, highlights their dedication to celebrating Filipino flavors on the global stage. These award-winning creations have made Chocs ‘N Boxes a standout in the competitive world of gourmet chocolate.
Sustainable Farming Practices at the Heart of the Brand
At the core of Chocs ‘N Boxes is a deep commitment to sustainability and organic farming. The family-owned cacao farm in Calbayog City benefits from rich soil, misty mountain air, and consistent rainfall, creating the ideal conditions for growing cacao trees. The farm adheres to the highest standards of organic farming, certified by the Organic Certification Center of the Philippines (OCCP) and registered with the Bureau of Fisheries and Agriculture Standards (BAFS).
The farm employs a range of sustainable practices, including the use of vermicast fertilizer produced in its own vermiculture facility. This natural fertilizer enriches the soil without harming the environment, ensuring the cacao trees grow strong and healthy. Additionally, the farm formulates its own bio-organic foliar, derived from seaweed, fish amino acids, and molasses, to encourage flowering and fruit production. By avoiding pesticides, Chocs ‘N Boxes creates a safe and healthy environment for both the cacao trees and the surrounding ecosystem.
This focus on sustainability is not just a business model—it’s a philosophy that reflects the founders’ commitment to creating chocolate that is as good for the planet as it is for the palate. From farm to bar, every step in the production process is carefully managed to ensure the highest quality and minimal environmental impact.
A Global Presence with Local Roots
Photo Courtesy: ALEGRE DE PILIPINAS INTERNATIONAL
Chocs ‘N Boxes continues to operate from its chocolate shop in Norridge, Illinois, where visitors can watch the magic of chocolate-making firsthand. The shop’s open layout allows customers to witness the care and attention that goes into each product, from the tempering of the chocolate to the finishing touches on their signature bonbons and pralines. Despite its local base, the company’s impact is global, thanks to its participation in international chocolate competitions and its dedication to sharing Filipino cacao and flavors with the world.
The brand’s reach has expanded beyond the U.S. and the Philippines, with accolades and recognition from international judges and chocolate enthusiasts alike. Each award, from the Calamansi Caramel Bonbon to the Pili Nut – Dates Pralines, is a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
The Future of Chocs ‘N Boxes: Crafting Excellence with Purpose
As Chocs ‘N Boxes looks to the future, their mission remains clear: to continue crafting award-winning chocolates that honor their Filipino heritage while pushing the boundaries of flavor and sustainability. With each new product, they bring a piece of the Philippines to the world stage, all while supporting their family’s farm and promoting organic farming practices.
Through their dedication to sustainability, craftsmanship, and innovation, Chocs ‘N Boxes has proven that exceptional chocolate is not only about taste—it’s about integrity, community, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Whether enjoyed locally in Illinois or savored by chocolate connoisseurs around the globe, each bite of Chocs ‘N Boxes chocolate is a celebration of both tradition and artistry.
Published by: Holy Minoza
