Restorying BC is a project funded through the BC Government150 Time Immemorial Grant Program

By Pat Parungao

Restorying BC is a project funded through the BC Government150 Time Immemorial Grant Program, which commemorates 150 years since British Columbia joined the Canadian Confederation in 1871. Through this grant, the Pacific Canada Heritage Centre – Museum of Migration launched the Restorying BC project to collect and share stories of individuals who have migrated to Canada within the past 50 years, highlighting the diverse experiences that have shaped the province’s cultural landscape.  Below is Frederico’s migration and business story. 

 

Frederico Verzosa, Founder, Smokehouse Sandwich Co.  Photo Credit:  Paolo Valdes

Smokehouse Sandwich Co. – Frederico Verzosa

“One of the joys of food is how it brings a community together. I don’t just want to feed people — my desire is to nourish them. As an entrepreneur, serving others is part of our responsibility, and part of that service is building relationships. Not just within the business, but in the wider community. That’s the magic of food.”

Migration History

In 2007, Rico Verzosa arrived in Richmond, BC, from Taytay, Rizal in the Philippines. While he initially considered settling in Toronto, drawn by its perceived opportunities, his wife wished to stay closer to family on the West Coast — a decision that ultimately brought them to British Columbia.

Over the next year, Rico frequently travelled between Canada and the Philippines to prepare for their family’s move, handling documentation and logistics on his own.  When his wife’s immigration papers were finally ready, she was already eight months pregnant — too far along to comfortably fly. They decided to stay in the Philippines until after their child was born. During this extended stay, Rico found it difficult not to work. When his wife discovered a weekend market opportunity, the couple decided to experiment with selling barbecue sandwiches — their first step into entrepreneurship.

 

Frederico Verzosa, Founder, Smokehouse Sandwich Co.  Photo Credit:  Paolo Valdes

The Start of Smokehouse Sandwich Co.

In 2011, Rico and his family finally returned to Richmond. He began working at a local restaurant called Jeff Rose, gaining experience while quietly nurturing a dream of starting something of his own.

While exploring business ideas, Rico came across the space that would eventually become Smokehouse Sandwich Co. Drawing from the skills he developed at weekend markets in the Philippines, Rico launched his business in November 2013. What began as a small undertaking during a time of transition had unexpectedly become the foundation for his future in Canada.  Rico emphasizes that he  may have given up long ago were it not for his number 1 supporters, wife CC and daughters Ela and Ada.

Compared to the fast-paced environment he left behind in the Philippines, Richmond’s slower-paced life helped Rico refocus and reshape his priorities.  

“Life here made things simpler. At that point, I knew I wanted to raise a family, and the environment encouraged me to slow down and think about what really mattered. I realized I was in a different season of life — and I learned to enjoy those little moments that can so easily pass us by.”

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the 150 Time Immemorial Grant Program.