CYO or Create Your Own Charcoal-Grilled Burgers and Hotdogs began as a modest food venture during the global pandemic. What started as a simple buy-and-sell operation evolved into a unique food concept that allows customers to customize their own burgers according to their tastes and appetites. 

Driven by innovation, dedication, and a strong commitment to quality, its owner, Maria Avelaine Avellana, has successfully transformed CYO into a thriving enterprise and today, it operates three branches across Manila and Makati City and is recognized for its flavorful, affordable, and highly customizable charcoal-grilled offerings.  

At the core of CYO’s operations is a deep sense of discipline and passion for excellence that stems from careful sourcing of ingredients to the preparation of each made-to-order product. 

CYO’s growth has been further strengthened through its engagement with government support programs and its adoption of productivity-enhancing practices.  

From its support from the Department of Trade and Industry Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program, CYO was able to avail the training from the RTWPB-NCR where they learned 7S of Good Housekeeping, Productivity 101, and even labor-related practices, such as how to properly treat employees and understand the Labor Code. 

Through these efforts, CYO was named a Regional Winner of the 2025 Productivity Olympics (Micro-Service Category) by the RTWPB–NCR and went on to represent the region in the 2025 Productivity Olympics National Finals. The enterprise’s steady progress highlights how strategic support and a commitment to productivity can accelerate the growth of microenterprises. 

This has also opened the door for CYO to be a beneficiary of the DOLE Adjustment Measures Program last 2025.  

She shared, “Nabigyan din po kami ng mahahalagang kagamitan tulad ng point-of-sale (POS) system, na dati ay sulat-kamay lang kami. Nagkaroon din po kami ng radio [communication system], para makapag-usap kami.” These interventions enabled the enterprise to streamline operations, strengthen internal coordination, and significantly improve service delivery across its branches. 

More than a food business, CYO exemplifies the potential of Filipino-owned enterprises to innovate, adapt, and succeed through productivity-driven strategies. Its journey underscores how small businesses can create meaningful economic opportunities while contributing to local development. 

As CYO continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to deliver not only quality products but also opportunities for enterprise development and community upliftment. 

Pag Produktibo, Aasenso.