In the quaint barangay of Cawit, Marinduque, where butterflies gracefully dance in the air, one enterprise has emerged as a beacon of hope, creativity, and resilience. La Anton, a butterfly breeding business established in 2016 by the Dela Peña family, has become a symbol of triumph over adversity and a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passion.

With a modest starting capital of ₱50,000, Anthony Dela Peña made a life-changing decision to leave the comfort of his corporate career and follow his heart into the delicate world of butterfly breeding. Though his choice was met with doubts and raised eyebrows from friends and relatives, Anthony’s unwavering commitment and meticulous attention to detail quickly set La Anton apart in the local industry.

Every butterfly pupae nurtured under La Anton’s care carries with it a story of patience, precision, and passion. Anthony personally ensures that each chrysalis is healthy and vibrant, fit for both local distribution and international export. His hard work soon paid off, with La Anton steadily gaining recognition in the butterfly breeding community.

However, like many enterprises, La Anton faced its greatest test during the COVID-19 pandemic. With export and local sales coming to a standstill, the future seemed uncertain. But instead of giving in to despair, the Dela Peña family adapted with remarkable ingenuity. They launched a rolling store, delivering meats and fresh produce to their neighbors and community, ensuring not just their survival but also that of their workers who depended on them.

Today, La Anton continues to spread its wings. From a small backyard business, it has grown to manage over 50 sub-breeders and now exports around 1,500 butterfly pupae per month to destinations like Turkey, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates. Domestically, they supply to provinces such as Bulacan, Lanao del Norte, Cebu, and Pangasinan, further expanding their network and impact.

Recognizing the potential of organizing local breeders, Mr. Anthony Dela Peña took the lead in uniting butterfly breeders in Marinduque into a formal association. With the invaluable support of DTI Marinduque and the Philexport MIMAROPA Chapter, this initiative gave breeders a stronger voice, and more opportunities for growth and collaboration. This collective effort not only strengthened the industry but also fostered a sense of solidarity and shared purpose among local entrepreneurs.

More than just a business, La Anton represents a community of hope-bearers, providing livelihoods to breeders and inspiring others to chase their dreams despite uncertainty. Anthony’s vision for the future includes expanding the farm, employing more locals, and continuously promoting sustainability and craftsmanship in everything they do.

The story of La Anton reminds us that even in the most challenging times, resilience paired with creativity can transform obstacles into opportunities. It stands as a shining example that when one follows their passion with heart and hard work, it is possible to rise, to endure, and to inspire, just like the butterflies they so carefully nurture.

La Anton is not just breeding butterflies; they’re nurturing dreams and building a community with wings. ♦

Date of Release: 11 July 2025