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Two enterprising Filipinos in Midland, Texas, are taking bold steps toward entrepreneurial success. Malcolm Hiponia and Edgar Ypil, both former employees of the restaurant giant Panda Express, have joined the 2024 Midland Entrepreneurial Challenge (MEC). Their mission? To develop a business plan for a Filipino fast-food chain that combines traditional flavors with a streamlined, scalable model—one they hope will lay the foundation for future franchising.

The Midland Entrepreneurial Challenge and Koya Sipanlog Express

The Midland Entrepreneurial Challenge is a prestigious six-month business boot camp funded by the Midland Development Corporation (MDC) and administered by the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This program equips local entrepreneurs with essential business tools, mentorship, and the chance to compete for a cash prize.

Malcolm and Edgar’s entry, Koya Sipanlog Express: Filipino All-Day Breakfast, embodies their vision of making Filipino cuisine both accessible and convenient while preserving its authentic flavors. The name Koya is derived from the Filipino word Kuya, meaning “older brother,” symbolizing respect and camaraderie.

From Panda Express to Koya Sipanlog Express

Malcolm Hiponia, affectionately known as Kuya Macky, brings years of culinary expertise and innovation to the venture. While working at Panda Express, he noticed the popularity of half-and-half orders featuring fried rice and noodles. This observation sparked the inspiration for Sipanlog, a fusion of three staple Filipino food items:

• Si from sinaing (steamed rice) or sinangag (fried rice)
• Pan from pansit (noodles)
• Log from itlog (eggs)

In the Philippines, Silog is a beloved breakfast meal consisting of garlic-fried rice (sinangag), eggs (itlog), and a protein of choice. By incorporating pansit, Malcolm created Sipanlog, a unique twist on a Filipino classic. The menu offers a variety of protein options, including Filipino favorites such as pork tocino, beef tapa, and pork sisig.

Malcolm’s entrepreneurial journey in Midland began during the pandemic when he launched Midland Filipino Bakery at the Midland Downtown Farmers Market. His homemade bread quickly gained popularity, selling out weekly and proving the high demand for Filipino flavors. Encouraged by this success, he expanded to a food truck, where he introduced rice-and-noodle combos inspired by his experience at Panda Express.

Though his entry in the 2024 MEC did not advance to the final round, Malcolm gained valuable insights from the boot camp and judges’ feedback. One judge’s advice – “Start small and grow with a strong track record” -resonated deeply with him. Determined to turn his dream into reality, Malcolm partnered with Edgar Ypil, a former assistant manager at Panda Express with expertise in business operations, to bring Koya Sipanlog Express to life.

Launching Koya Sipanlog Express

On January 24, 2025, Malcolm and Edgar conducted a trial run of Koya Sipanlog Express using a rented food trailer. Customer feedback was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing their confidence in the concept. Encouraged by this response, they officially launched their food truck on January 29 at the Dollar General store on North Big Spring in Midland, Texas.

Malcolm has developed a streamlined cooking process inspired by his time at Panda Express, ensuring that even inexperienced cooks can efficiently replicate the dishes. By simplifying operations, Malcolm and Edgar aim to create a scalable business model, making Koya Sipanlog Express an attractive opportunity for future franchisees.

A Dream for the Filipino Community

Koya Sipanlog Express is more than just a business – it’s the dream of establishing the first homegrown Filipino fast-food chain in the United States. Malcolm and Edgar hope their venture will inspire other Filipino entrepreneurs to introduce their heritage and cuisine to a wider audience.

Their journey in the 2024 Midland Entrepreneurial Challenge is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and the power of community. Their story reminds us that dreams, paired with hard work and a clear vision, can inspire others and pave the way for success.

One judge wrote in the feedback, “Too ambitious.” But is it doable? A resounding yes.

As Malcolm and Edgar open the doors to Koya Sipanlog Express, they invite the people of Midland – and eventually, all of America – to experience the rich and comforting flavors of Filipino cuisine, one breakfast at a time.