Ilaya Cage Free Egg Supply
Ilaya Cage Free, located in the Philippines, was founded in 2023 with the goal of offering eggs from cage-free hens combining health, responsibility, and animal welfare. The company began as a family-run operation with just 70 laying hens in a backyard system. Its entrepreneurial journey led to the expansion of its facilities into a semi-commercial operation, currently occupying an area of 3.8 hectares.
In April 2025, Ilaya received its first batch of 4,000 laying hens and is already preparing for the arrival of another 6,000. The company’s goal is to reach 30,000 hens within two years, expanding its presence in the Filipino market with responsible production aligned with the highest international standards of animal welfare.
Today, the company has 6 employees and a flock of 9,000 hens, which accounts for 99% of its current operations. All animals are raised in cage-free systems, and the company is certified by the Certified Humane® program, ensuring strict compliance with thorough criteria at all stages of animal care.
The interest in seeking certification arose through contact with the organization Global Food Partners, which introduced the Certified Humane® program as an international benchmark. Since then, Ilaya has invested in operational improvements, enhancing process control and production quality. One of the main challenges was adapting internal procedures to meet the certification standards, which resulted in more organized management and greater awareness of bird welfare.
In addition to strengthening socio-environmental responsibility, the certification has also helped increase the brand’s visibility. Since obtaining the certification, Ilaya has seen significant growth in customer inquiries, especially from hotels, restaurants, and resorts in the southern Philippines, its main target market.
With a clear strategy to expand its product reach and offer a healthier, more ethical alternative to local consumers, Ilaya Cage Free positions itself as an example of the transition to sustainable poultry systems. Its commitment to animal welfare and cage-free production drives the company toward responsible growth.
