The mango fruit, also known as the “Apple of the Tropics”, is a regular favorite in tropical countries like the Philippines. We love to eat mangoes because of their sweet, juicy and luscious taste – a perfect ending to a delicious meal. When consumed in moderate amounts, mangoes are actually quite healthy because they are very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium, and an excellent source of dietary fiber and vitamins B6, A and C. Moreover, mangoes are rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium and copper, and different anti-oxidants that can neutralize free radicals throughout the body. Most importantly, mangoes promote good eyesight, fight cancer, regulate diabetes and cholesterol, cleanse the skin and are also believed to be an aphrodisiac.
But do you know that our very own local mango has two Guinness world records? In 1995, the Philippine Mango was listed as the sweetest fruit in the world and in 2005, a whooping 3.5-kilo mango from Iligan City (an hour drive from Cagayan de Oro City) was listed as the world’s heaviest by the Guinness Book of World Records. The Philippines is also one of the top ten exporters of mango with countries like Hongkong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and the USA as major consumers.
A replica of the heaviest mango from Iligan City is displayed at Mango Mania’s Lifestyle District branch
It was no surprise then when Mango Mania Healthy Dessert first opened in Cagayan de Oro City, it instantly became a hit to the locals. I myself am an avid customer of Mango Mania not only because I love mangoes but also because I just love the over-all vibe of the place – simple yet vibrant.
It is interesting to know how this sweet piece of heaven started so I sat down with the Branch Managers of Mango Mania Healthy Dessert to know more about their story. While travelling in Asian countries, Janice Ratunil (a Filipina personal stylist based in Hong Kong), noticed that Asians love mango desserts so much and learned that the sweet mangoes served in these countries actually came from the Philippines. This discovery sparked a business idea in her mind hence Mango Mania Healthy Dessert was conceptualized in 2013. In April of 2014, Janice finally opened the first branch at the Lifestyle District. After twelve months, she opened another branch at Ayala Centrio Mall to cater to more mango lovers in CDO.
Mango Mania – Lifestyle District Branch
Janice actually plans to put up fifteen (15) branches around the Philippines to include Iligan, Cebu, Davao and Manila. It is also noteworthy that Mango Mania buys their ingredients from local sources and donates 1% of its monthly sales to Balay Cannosa, an orphanage for street children in CDO. Now that’s what you call business with a conscience!
As for their products, they use 100% natural ingredients, and that is why their desserts are healthier and taste better.
Their signature shaved ice (in mango and vanilla) adds a delightful taste to their desserts and is actually the first of its kind in the Philippines. Of course, the best part is that the mangoes they serve are perfectly sweet and succulent. You can even choose your desired sweetness level for your desserts!
