Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

Tag: Entrepreneurs

Jovy & Janet Tuaño – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf

Gamechangers – Jovy and Janet Tuaño

Photo by: Jef Anog

Entrepreneurs

Power couple Jovy and Janet Tuaňo have been very prominent entrepreneurs in the business scene in the UAE, pushing for the growth of the Filipino community for almost two decades now. The pair are currently striving to elevate the status of Filipino cuisine and Philippine ingredients in the emirates through their groundbreaking project Filfood.

Founder and former Chairman of the Philippine Business Council in Abu Dhabi (now Director of Trade, Investment, and Entrepreneurship) Jovy Tuano has been the backbone of the Filipino business circle in the capital since the council’s formation in 2004. A professional who wears many hats, he is also a food innovator, a licensed real estate broker, and a business leader.

Janet is a leading expert in banking with more than 25 years of experience, working with one of the UAE’s renowned banks as a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), while serving as the custodian of the company’s professional systems, and providing invaluable support and expertise in the family’s business ventures.

Under Asia Gulf Companies, they have established La Carne, which specializes in premium meats supplying the hospitality industry as well as discerning foodies. More recently, Jovy and Janet have also launched ,the food innovation initiative, “FilFood” where they work with F&B operators, as well as with multicultural chefs and respected culinary figures. Filfood has held conferences, as well as food festivals in the country.

More than their professional achievements, the two are most proud of being able to raise two very capable global citizens who are humble and driven to succeed. Daughter Joan, who is now the Culinary Business Manager at La Carne, continues to grow the brand in the country, while the youngest Jose Marie, is making a name for himself in economics in Europe.

(more…)

November 16, 2021
Filipino Businesses in the Middle East and Beyond: Events

Houz of Zen

www.houzofzen.com

Founder: Rozen Antonio

Houz of Zen is a niche and creative boutique event management company that specializes in creating beautiful, personalized experiences through bespoke flower decorations along with beauty and fashion photography. “Whether it is creating that one exquisite arrangement for the perfect finishing touch or completely transforming a space, we have the knowledge and creative expertise to set the perfect setting and ambiance for your event,” Founder Rozen Antonio says. The company’s clientele includes some of the most respected fashion houses and luxury hotels in the country.

Fourte Events

www.facebook.com/pg/teamfourte

Since: 2016

Founder: Cecil “Khel” Rcuenco

Creating lasting memories through beautiful, thoughtfully executed events, Fourte has combined the principles of events management and style consultancy in order to attain its reputation as we know it today. Composed of a handful of the uber chic and talented of Dubai’s Filipino community, Fourte’s dedication to beauty and meticulous eye for detail has resulted in some of the most stunning and memorable events within the region.

The team has catered to numerous local and destination weddings, and their works have been featured in Bride and Breakfast, Inside Out UK, Esquire Middle East, and Promo. They have also done private gatherings and have consistently handled Omniyat’s corporate events for the last two years. Fourte functions differently from other creative enterprises out there, emphasizing a “No Wedding Package Policy” and approaching their clients with bespoke, tailor-made services. Through this, the team has created highly personalized one-of-a-kind events for its many clients and patrons.

“That’s the thing about working with people, no experience is the same, and it was all worth the learning it brings.” Founder Cecil “Khel” Rcuenco says. He believes in quality over quantity, and for that to be achieved, listening to clients stands as a top priority. “Know where you stand in the market. Create the needs for your clients. It is vital that you get to know them as a person. They are the real reason we thrive in business. Own your uniqueness and originality of concept.”

Fourte’s services have also expanded beyond their initial offering of wedding events and style consultancy. The team now also handles model styling for different brands (print, e-commerce, TVC), celebrity styling, private events, as well as the creation of model portfolios.

Digital Creations Event Management and PR Agency

www.d-creations.com

Since: 2014

Founder: Michael Da Costa

Digital Creations is a Dubai–based full-service Event Management and PR Agency that strives to bring brand messaging to people through creating and managing small to large-scale events for its clients. Among the big names that Digital Creations have worked for are Fashion Forward, Novotel, Lush, and Eros Group. Accessible and providing affordably-priced projects to clients, the company also offers PR, endorsements, sponsorships, product placement, marketing, and promotional strategies – along with talents consultancy for a variety of projects.

(more…)

November 10, 2019
Filipino Businesses in the Middle East and Beyond: Travel

MPQ TOURISM

www.mpqtourism.com

Since: 2013

Founder: Malou Guinto – Prado

MPQ tourism stands out among the most well-known travel and tours agencies serving the Filipino community in the UAE. With a range of client services spanning international airline ticketing, visa services, travel insurance, hotel bookings, travel packages, customized travel itineraries, tour services and more, MPQ Tourism guarantees a smooth travel experience for its customers – providing services beyond expectations.

Always delivering, MPQ Tourism has catered to a rapidly expanding clientele since its 2013 opening, providing top of the line service and always completing set goals and business objectives. Their strong presence within the market facilitated the expansion of the company from the UAE to the USA, with branches across Dubai, and Las Vegas. MPQ has also bagged a the partnership with the Dubai Aviation Corporation (Fly Dubai) among many other merits. They have received various accolades since their opening, including Best Travel Agency at the Middle East Hospitality Excellence Awards for three consecutive years.

Founder Malou Guinto – Prado is an accomplished entrepreneur with expertise within the travel and tourism field. Through her initiatives, she has led the MPQ team in developing a work ethic focused on strong customer service. With dedication and hard work, she strives to build MPQ into a globally known brand that caters to all travelers Filipino and otherwise, while hoping to inspire future entrepreneurs.

Her formula for success emphasizes several considerations. First, she encourages entrepreneurs to understand their competition well, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of their market and their company. Knowing the customers comes in next. As customer expectations change rapidly, Malou puts importance on always keeping up with their needs. Differentiation comes in third: “It’s essential to give customers good reasons to come to us rather than a rival. We develop a unique selling point that taps into what they want. It should be clear and obvious – no-one should have to ask what makes us different.”

Malou and the MPQ team actively practice the art of effective marketing, striking good relationships with their clientele at every opportunity. “Our principle is if we keep our customers happy, they will eventually give us more customers through word of mouth.” And with the rapid development of social media and the internet, she believes opportunities can be seized within arm’s length.

ANGEL WINGS INTERNATIONAL

www.angelwingsinternational.net

Since: 2018

Founder: Ellanie Villena

Angel Wings International is a prime travel, events, and lifestyle management agency that places customer satisfaction at its core by catering to its international clientele through unparalleled service. By keeping a close eye on various tourism trends within the market, the company continually innovates through its offers on business and leisure travel to provide clients with a wide range of solutions. Founder Ellanie Villena shares, “Planning, developing and adapting destination resources to the evolving needs of the market is the key to success.”

KING FISHER TOURS

www.kingfisherdubai.com

Since: 2013

Founder: Richie Ernie Bato

The first Filipino-owned chartering company in the UAE, King Fisher Tours Leisure Yachts & Boats Rental LLC is dedicated to serving fishing enthusiasts and anglers alike – offering a wide roster of services including shared and private fishing trips, cruising tours, marine services, and boat utility services. With customer satisfaction as a top priority, founder Richie Ernie Bato shares “We are a full-time professional charter service with you – our clients – in mind, believing in our clients’ needs and providing the best prices and best services.”

TIME TRAVEL TOURISM

www.timetraveltourism.com

Since: 2015

Founder: Jocelyn Del Monte Reyes

With more than a decade of experience within the hospitality industry, Jocelyn Reyes established Time Travel Tourism in 2015. Carpe Diem is their tagline, and with it, they provide prompt service to a multitude of clients with tailor-made packages to suit a variety of needs and requirements. With representatives all over the Philippine islands, Time Travel Tourism also seeks to market the Philippines as a travel destination by closely working with agencies across the region.

(more…)

October 29, 2019
Filipino Businesses in the Middle East and Beyond: Food & Beverage

LA CARNE

www.lacarne.ae

Since: 2014

Founder: Jovy Tuano

As one of the only premium multi-brand meat retailers in the country, La Carne has risen to become one of the benchmark brands of its kind in the country. Working as a premium meat retailer in the UAE, the company has supplied award-winning beef and lamb from Australia, the USA, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa to its discerning patrons. La Carne has provided its customers with a wide variety of options as well as custom orders available upon request (such as 12-hour smoked brisket and halal sausages).

La Carne aims to become a value-adding educational hub for premium meat in the nation’s capital while innovating the way steakhouse level cuts are made available to UAE residents. Through their online store and loyalty program, they have shared educational content with their patrons and improved transparency between client and seller. With an ever-evolving ‘kaizen’ mindset and a focus on community engagement, La Carne has become a competent and trustworthy customer-orientated authority within the region.

CO CHOCOLAT

www.cochocolat.com

Since: 2016

Founder: Luchie and Iman Suguitan

Founded by sisters and ‘Cacao Doctors’ Luchie and Iman Suguitan, Co Chocolat has introduced a new concept within Dubai’s diverse field of gourmet offerings. Through their brand ‘Co Chocolat’, they have intrigued the Dubai foodies by introducing healthy chocolates with a wide variety of tastes.

Their products are developed with health as the number one priority. With minimal use of refined sugar, Co Chocolat develops its products with natural cacao and natural sweeteners (coconut, dates and other fruits), as well as superfoods that promote healing.

“We are committed to ensuring that each bite may either relieve stress, enhance mood, serve as anti-oxidant, boost energy, improve the immune system, be anti-inflammatory, mildly relieve pain, enhance vitality, improve gut flora, or promote heart health.”

Co Chocolat has also maintained a strong relationship with local farmers in the Philippines. By collaborating with small businesses run by cacao farmers in Mindanao through their parent company (OFW para sa Magsasaka), they have made community traceability the core of their work. Through this, they have also increased overall productivity and stability within the cacao farming sector. Through its accomplishments in bringing locally sourced Philippine products to the UAE, Co Chocolat has become a shining example of a business model formed through mutual cooperation and sustainability.

ADOBO RESTO 24/7

www.facebook.com/adoboafc

Since: 2014

Founder: Dowel Deligos

Adobo Resto 24/7 serves authentic Filipino cuisine to the Filipino community in Muscat, Oman while introducing it to the many locals and foreigners in the country. With a culinary focus on dishes from the southern regions of the Philippines, Adobo offers a different take on Filipino food in contrast to its counterparts in the country – while presenting dishes at a high standard with homecooked execution and family-style serving.

OUNCE

www.facebook.com/ouncedxb

@ouncedxb

Since: 2013

Founder: Alberto Opena

Ounce has steadily made a name for itself within the UAE through its expertise within event and facilities management, consultancy and catering for numerous events. Famed for its specialization within beverage mixology, the company has worked closely with MMI and has become the brand ambassador for many well-known labels such as Jack Daniels, Macallan and San Pellegrino. The brand has also introduced a unique flavor into the field by way of “Tagai” craft cocktails, which are inspired by Filipino culture.

ESKINITA

www.facebook.com/ESKINITADXB/

Since: 2017

Founder: Aldo Aguilar

Situated in Deira, the heart of Dubai, Eskinita Restaurant serves Filipino and international street food with favorites including grills, sizzlers and fusion drinks, to the growing Filipino community. It has established itself as a casual hangout and events place for many Pinoys, even hosting open mic sessions where individuals and groups could showcase their musical talent.

OFF THE HOOK

www.othrestaurant.com

Since: 2016

Founder: Rolly Brucales

Three years running strong since its opening in Abu Dhabi, Off the Hook has constantly provided simple and delicious fun to a growing loyal customer base across the UAE. The brand has become famous for serving healthy Louisiana-style seafood coupled with a family oriented ‘kamayan’ style dining experience, and laid back and cozy atmosphere.

Off the hook has four branches spread across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain with a fifth one opening very soon. Through their services, Off the Hook has been nominated for 2017 Best Seafood Restaurant by Timeout Abu Dhabi. Over the years, they have also collaborated with influencers across the region. In a highly saturated industry like the Food and Beverage sector, one can easily become lost and generic. Off the Hook has stayed true to its concept since day one, vigilantly analyzing and identifying market trends and refining its family style dining concept.

Founder Rolly Brucales has known work from a very young age, first beginning as a helping hand in Bicol in his family’s meat business and gaining experience in the public market. After moving to the UAE in 2004, he gained over eight years of accounts experience and expanded his horizons through networking. He also gained an insight into the market by becoming a sales associate along the way. After finding the right partners, he opened Off the Hook in 2016. His unyielding spirit has also led him to open a number of diverse business ventures including a tailoring shop, Global Connect Travels and Tours and Rock Built Contracting and General Maintenance LLC.

As the father of the OTH family, Rolly believes that everyone must go home with something substantial, “lahat tayo dapat umuwi ng meron”. He encourages financial stability and pushes his employees towards professional growth in their endeavors. Through this, he aspires to grow Off the Hook into a worldwide brand, believing that Filipinos can be successful entrepreneurs who not only provide jobs, but also contribute to the building of a strong Filipino community.

(more…)

October 1, 2019
Filipino Businesses in the Middle East and Beyond: Trading & Distribution

Meeting Garments Trading LLC

www.meetingdancewear.com

Since: 2005

Founder: Regina Martin-Marauta

Meeting Dance and Leisurewear is a one-stop-shop for durable, high-quality clothes, shoes and accessories that caters exclusively to the growing dance community and fitness enthusiasts of the emirates. “We pride ourselves on providing dance and active wear that is both chic and comfortable.” Founder Regina Martin-Marauta shares, as the company has become famous for selling highly sought after gear for jazz, modern and ballroom dancers in the region. The company’s brands include popular industry names such as Danc-In and Deha from Italy.

ENTREPINOY FZE

www.entrepinoyco.com

Since: 2016

Founders: Felicito V. Hernandez, Gertrudes Quebral, Hyden Restificar, Samirah Quintilla and Sheryll Bacay Agbing

Advocating entrepreneurship as a catalyst for positive change has always been at the core of Entrepinoy’s values. Established in 2016, Entrepinoy has facilitated the distribution of many of the Philippines’ socially-responsible high-quality goods to the international market. From exporting and distributing organic rice from Mindanao and other home-grown products like Barako coffee, they have supported many entrepreneurs in the motherland. On empowering local businesses, the founders share “Entrepinoy endeavors to find a solution to a problem and become change agents. We want to help find ways to provide a venue for people to live, create opportunities and unleash potentials.”

VANTAGE INTERNATIONAL

www.vantageinternational.com.ph

Since: 2014

Founder: Maria Josephine Panagsagan Abina

Aiming to encourage opportunity and unleash innate potential, Oman-based Vantage International is one of the foremost Filipino product distributors in the region. In following the “Bayanihan” spirit, Vantage International supports and uplifts various local and regional businesses in the Philippines. With over 400,000 business partners across the globe, Vantage has amassed one of the largest online catalogs of affordable Philippine products, quickly growing as they partner with new businesses every day. “We believe that people are our most valuable resource.” Maria Josephine Abina shares. “We believe in the potential of everyone, to rise and build a better life for themselves and their families.”

(more…)

September 8, 2019
Filipino entrepreneurs in the UAE and GCC – Miscellaneous

Entrepinoy – UAE

entrepinoyco.com

Sheryll Bacay Agbing

Chairman

Endeavoring not only to inspire entrepreneurship, but also to bring change to impoverished communities back home, social enterprise EntrePINOY aspires to become the preferred global suppliers of socially responsible and high-quality Philippine products.

A catalyst for social change, Entrepinoy has been distributing – Bios Dynamis the breakthrough certified organic rice of the “Adopt a Farm” program. “By importing these products and introducing them into the Middle East market, we are thereby helping our local farmers,” says EntrePinoy Chairman Sheryll Bacay Agbing.

Sheryll, together with partners Jessie Quintilla, Gertie Quebral, Hyden Restificar, and Chito Hernandez, have created EntrePinoy as a business with a social purpose as its primary driver. “Knowing why you do business, how you do it, and what you do, we believe, is the formula to success. Regardless of how best great your business plan is, and how impeccable your marketing and sales strategies are, not knowing your purpose is like travelling without knowing your destination. EntrePinoy aims to bring high-quality Philippine products to the world while solving social dilemmas and creating a positive impact on the lives of people and the community they belong.”

Ahsant Dubai

ahsantdubai.com

Iman Suguitan

Founder & Managing Director

Ahsant premium hotel supplies and specialized gifts provides room, bathroom and restaurant accessories within the industry of hospitality. Since 2009, Ahsant has partnered with many renowned hotel brands within the MEA region such as the Four Seasons, Burj Al Arab, Ritz Carlton, The Address Hotels and Resorts, Marriott, Hilton and many more. An award winning brand, Ahsant has won the 2015 Best Hotel Partner in MEHA (Middle East Hotel Awards), and the Best Luxury Hotel Supplies Company in the 2017 UAE Business Awards.

Founder and Managing Director Iman Suguitan’s rise to success has been one of humility and learning. Books have always been a source of learning for Iman, providing her with many ideas and inspiration. “I read books for start-ups, for success, for change, and I have this one favorite, the book called “Built to Last”. It is both inspiring and pragmatic, good for entrepreneurs who’d like to build a company that will last.” Remaining inquisitive at all times is also essential to learning according to Iman. “Asking may give you a “yes” or a “no” but if you never ask, you will never have a chance for “yes”.”

Lastly, being humble stands at the core of Iman’s key to success. When dealing with problems, she quotes “don’t let success run to your head nor should you let failure define you”.

OFW Para Sa Magsasaka

ofwparasamagsasaka.com

Luchie Suguitan

Co-founder & COO

Working altruistically to bring positive social and economic change in the lives of those less fortunate back home, OFW para sa Magsasaka (OPM) partners with the marginalized yet potentially profitable agricultural sector of the Philippines with the goal of alleviating poverty experienced by Mindanao farmers. Led by COO and Head of Products Luchie Suguitan, OPM soon plan on producing fine cacao products to address the tremendous global demand.

Although no definitive formula for success exists for Luchie, she has learnt a lot from her journey as an entrepreneur. She elaborates: “You can hire the best people in your team, but at the end of the day, you cannot expect anyone to care more about your business, other than yourself – therefore, YOU must know the ins and outs of your business more than anyone else. Learn what you can from mentors. They are well-intentioned people who have gone through the birth and growing pains of a business and they will not be afraid to suggest or advise you on how things could be done better. But ultimately, my successes and failures will only be at the mercy of God’s wisdom.”

Al Maher Sculpture LLC – UAE

Lilian Maria S. Bautista

Founder

Founded by Lillian Maria S. Bautista, Al Maher Sculpture bridges culture, environmental awareness, and handmade products by offering decoration services for weddings, birthdays, holidays and many other special locations. Their services are tailor made for a number of special occasions and uses, making pre-arranged bouquets, centerpieces and indoor/outdoor arrangements. Al Maher Sculpture also organizes, and hosts flower arrangement workshops targeted towards beginners within the particular field.

Entrepreneur Lillian Maria S. Bautista is not one to shy away from struggle in the pursuit of business. She encourages her peers to find different ways around different obstacles that stand in the way of growth on the long run. “To overcome the situation, one should be flexible. When original plan won’t work, think of new strategies to implement.” Creativity is an added edge, as non-conventional methods often produce more interesting results.

Starting a business also means crafting out your own market and reaching out to a target niche within the audience. “If your market within your geographical location is limited, try to create your own. Reinvent. Try to reach out as far as possible” Perseverance and patience are essential on the long run, she adds, as being a business owner requires serious amounts of time and effort in order to gain on the long run, as the fruits of hard work are at the end, not the start.

Eternitee

weareternitee.com

Ion & Racquel Gonzaga

Co-founders & Managing Partners

Being able to profoundly uplift others in the string of a few words is something Ion and Raquel Gonzaga strive towards. As managing partners of Eternitee – a unique label of statement t-shirts imprinted with spiritual wisdom – they aim to show how imparting positivity in the form of a mere sentence can leave such a huge impact.

For Ion and Raquel, attaining success hasn’t been the easiest. However, they’ve realized that being in tune with one’s spirituality is integral to the path towards it: “Besides taking the time to learn about digital resources that are currently available that allow for the growth of businesses (which is truly relevant), we are dependent on God’s wisdom above all. All decisions are prayed for, and sought for. Every action is assessed on if it is motivated by love, if it will inspire others, and if it will honor God.”

Meeting Garments Trading LLC – UAE

Shop: Meeting Dance & Leisure Wear

meetingdancewear.com

Regina Marauta

Founder

Fashion is a market that constantly grows day by day. New trends pop-up and an increasing demand for niche markets has been on the rise within the recent years – and that’s where Meeting Garments comes in. Chic, comfortable, energetic and stylish, Meeting Garments specializes in ready-made clothes, shoes and accessories that cater to all performance art institutions in Dubai, representing well-known brands from across the world.

In addition to the extensive market research and studies that entrepreneur Regina Martin-Marauta has undertaken, she insists that patience, perseverance and uniqueness. “It is crucial to have patience, perseverance, and, most importantly, a unique product/concept, or an everyday product that has been enhanced and altered in an innovative way.”

Helpful staff and a pleasant customer experience are definitely a necessity as one of Regina’s crucial qualities within a brand is the ability to reciprocate. Being able to give back to the community ensures a long lasting life within the market, as it builds relationships and guarantees customer loyalty. “Being an entrepreneur is all about being selfless and innovative, and reminding your customers why they should keep coming back.”

(more…)

August 6, 2018
Filipino Entrepreneurs in the UAE and GCC – Travel & Services

The Filipino Institute – UAE

filipinoinstitute.ae

Gabriel John D. Rimando

Founder & President

More than just a school for the people, the Filipino Institute is committed to providing uniquely designed professional programs that equip Filipinos in the UAE and Middle East with the tools, as well as the enthusiasm, to succeed in a chosen field.

Offering short courses in photography, accounting, human resources and office administration, caregiving, IT, and Arabic language classes, students can choose from basic, intermediate, and advanced courses designed to update their skills and knowledge, help them advance in their careers, or give them a competitive edge in the job market. In a span of two years, Filipino Institute has produced 40,000 graduates in the UAE and other countries within the GCC. “It started from the thought of wanting to help others and our economy. A notion that through the ripple effect of changing lives one student at a time, I’d be changing the world,” – says founder and president Gabriel John D. Rimando.

On the journey to where they stand today, Gabriel expresses that failing, and continuously learning from one’s mistakes, is an integral part of success: “Do not be discouraged by failure. Through the mistakes we make, we grow, we find strength, and character is built. Failing will always be a part of success. We just have to embrace it and learn to change for the better.”

Filbrit Training Center & Sampaguita Salon – UAE

filbrittrainingcentre.ae
sampaguitaladiessalon.ae

Mayet G Malang

Founder & CEO

Filbrit Training Center founded and led by Mayet Malang is a KHDA and DED licensed training center located in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. They specialize in shadow teaching and educational support for children with special needs. Mayet is also the owner of Sampaguita Salon, which is known for providing high quality beauty services with European hair products at a reasonable price.

Through her experience, Mayet swears by her formula for success: “Strategic planning stands at the core of every successful entrepreneur. Having many options is the secret of being successful. Finding the balance between planning carefully and being flexible is what will turn your business into a triumph. I also try very hard to listen to what my staff, my clients and others in the community are saying to me. Sometimes other people are the ones who can see things clearly.” She also mentions that passion is a driving force, that will keep one committed, and lastly, that being an entrepreneur comes with its own challenges as well. “Being an entrepreneur is tough, but never give up – keep going, follow your dreams with enthusiasm and strength: and you will make it for sure.”

Travel Services

James Travel – UAE

.jamestravelandtours.com

Christine Tilja

Founder and Managing Director

Backed with over 20 years in experience, and having worked with over 500,000 clients within the Middle East and back home, James Travel tirelessly strives to bridge the gap between the UAE and the Philippines, and the rest of the world. Enriching lives through travel, the company, with offices in both UAE and the Philippines, inspires and encourages people around the world to step out from what’s familiar through offering enticing services including: corporate travel, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events), educational/pilgrimage tours, worldwide holiday packages, visa processing, flight & hotel booking, as well as travel insurance.

Christine Tilja established the company in 2014, naming it after her eldest child. Since then, the company now has branches in Dubai, Makati and General Santos City. The entrepreneur shares what she likes the most about being her own boss, “To build a brand that adds value to the community and at the same time I get to spend more quality-time with James while growing up,” she says. “Success is a process – each experience, each mistake, each failure that I had made allows me to learn, be better and prepares me for the next chapter of my life.”

MPQ Tourism LLC (group) – UAE

www.mpqtourism.com

Malou Quinto Prado

CEO

Spearheaded by Malou Quinto Prado, MPQ tourism is a fully Filipino-owned travel agency that aims to create unique and affordable travel experiences. As a leader among many travel agencies in Dubai, MPQ tourism specializes in visa organization, document assistance, travel arrangement and providing a wide variety of travel packages to customers.

Malou’s secret to success starts with acknowledging and planning for the problems that lie ahead. “As an entrepreneur I can say it’s not easy running a business. You should always be positive and motivate yourself away from negative energy to strength and confidence.”

Her next secret to success lies within teamwork – always applying good leadership skills and nurturing employee relationships in order to ensure a happy and efficient work flow. “Investing more and more of your heart into your work the higher you go up is beneficial to the company and yourself. The results show as you put more effort into these things.”

According to Malou, analyzing and adopting the traits of a great entrepreneur improves one’s abilities immensely. She also puts emphasis on especially being goal oriented. She says, “By setting short-term and long-term goals, your business will be able to achieve more in the long run, and you’ll have a quicker read on the situation when things inevitably go wrong.”

Salon Services

Brusko Barbers – UAE

bruskobarbers.com

Roy & Abi Gaddi Cruz

Co-founders

Malu Gallardo & Algene Suria

Partners

These days, looking sharp is on every guy’s mind. Brusko Barbers is a Dubai-based concept barbershop that offers classic and edgy haircuts, clean shaves, top-notch grooming services, as well as treatments provided by professional barbers and hairstylists – all in one urban warehouse styled hideaway for men in JLT.

Lead by co-founders Roy Cruz and Abbi Gaddi Cruz, with partners Malu Gallardo and Algene Suria, Brusko Barbers was born out of the desire to address a gap in the market between exclusive men’s salons and the run-of-the-mill type.

No stranger to hustling, these entrepreneurs share what it takes to successfully build a brand: “To start up a business, you must have the skills to hustle, research-based insights, and a foolproof perspective on how good your service/product is. It sounds tough because it really is. If you’ve got that hard-core will to learn and to do all the above then you are ready to become an entrepreneur and it’s time for you to find the most suitable type of funding, partners or investors.”

Strawberry Nails

strawberrysalondubai.com

Dawn Almario, Olga Barcelona, Lot Quilatan & Sheena Jones

Co-founders

Just like the hair and nail treatments they offer, bold and brave are Dawn Almario, Olga Barcelona, Lot Quilatan, and Sheena Jones – founders of Strawberry Nails. Recognizing Dubai’s fast paced lifestyle, Strawberry Nails caters to the edgy girl on-the-go.

Having been open for three years now, these ladies express that despite having developed immensely asboth a team and a brand, they too elaborate that every aspect of any business can always be further enriched. From one entrepreneur to another who aspires, they share: “No matter how perfectly planned things are, you have to be flexible and constantly open to new ideas for each challenge. Be patient. Return of investment doesn’t happen overnight. Even a baby needs nine months to be fully developed and yet once born it’s just the beginning. Finally, believe in your idea and be brave. When things don’t go as planned, remember why you started the business, and just go for it. It’s always better to try and fail, than to fail because you never tried.”

(more…)

August 5, 2018
Filipino – founded startups that are making a difference: brands to look out for

Exoplanet App – UAE

exoplanetappuae.com

Exoplanet app allows people to enjoy the pleasures of good food combined with good company. For individuals who like connecting over a good meal, the app allows you to find and meet up people nearby. Founder Rafael Galing shares: “We want to foster an amiable community built on positivity, because a sense of camaraderie is something everyone should experience.” Exoplanet has recently been made available at Apple for IOS and Play Store for Android version.

Shoenvious – UAE

shoenvious.com

Shoenvious is an online platform where ladies can design handmade, bespoke and luxury footwear. Developed in the UAE by Co-founder Sau Noddings, Shoenvious uses cutting-edge 3D technology to bring your shoe designs to life with an extensive range of customizations. “As a shoe lover, it’s important to wear shoes that are aligned with my style as well as suit the occasion. We want to change the way women shop for shoes by giving them the opportunity to put their best foot forward every day in a bespoke pair that represents the best version of herself.”

It’s the HY – Australia

itsthehy.com.au

It’s The HY is an up and coming Australian fashion and textiles company based in Melbourne that create fashion art kits so people can learn how to make their own clothes. Set to launch next month, founders – Filipino Yavi Bermejo and Australian Hugh Reed aspire to change the collective perception on clothing as a whole: “We want people to approach fashion in their own way. We want a future where we have a better relationship with fashion and the way that people purchase clothing.”

(more…)

July 23, 2018
Filipino – founded startups that are making a difference – Hospitality

The Birdhouse El Nido

Creating a definitive niche for eco-sustainability in the Philippines’ hospitality industry.

thebirdhouseelnido.com

Philippines

Since September 2016
Sector: Hotel/Hospitality Industry
Founder: Camille and Mark-Anthony Villaflor

The Birdhouse is an island exclusive boutique glamping site on the Maremegmeg beach in El Nido.

“Nestled in the side of a ridge, this off-the-beaten-path gives activities true to the nature of experiential tourism and slow travel. Whether that’s the hike up the 200 bamboo steps, a long coffee session at The Nesting Table (in-house restaurant), or a yoga session up in the mother nest, this is a place to recharge.”

The label was founded by former international school teacher Mark Anthony Villaflor and interior designer Camille. Since their opening almost two years ago, in September 2016, The Birdhouse has had a high occupancy rate of 97% and has received Trip Advisor’s #1 Specialty Lodging in El Nido. Their success has resulted into receiving a grant in moving towards sustainable solar energy from the United Nations, expansion from three to five luxury glamping units (seven very soon), and the building of a network to connect like-minded business partners and entrepreneurs.

Birdhouse’s vision for the future revolves around making eco–sustainable glamping a stand-out niche among Filipino hotel and hospitality brands. “We want to show that low-impact eco-friendly hotels have a huge place in the hotel game in the Philippines. We seek to prove that eco should be both ecological and economical. We believe that balancing aesthetic through great design and nature are essential in our hospitality approach. The lifestyle we seek is the lifestyle we will present.”

(more…)

July 23, 2018
Filipino – founded startups that are making a difference: Impact

The startups sector in the Philippines is still very much in its infancy stage, especially in comparison to our Southeast Asian neighbors, especially in China and Singapore where the field is bolstered by government support, advanced technology, as well as available venture capital.

As of 2017, The Trade and Industry Department estimates that there were over 300 of these innovative and potentially scalable businesses established in the country. Interest in entrepreneurship, however, has been growing in recent years with more and more millennials opting to create their own ventures, and while the numbers of investors and incubators are seeing a promising increase. Interestingly enough, the Philippines’ also hit an important milestone in 2017 with its first ‘unicorn’ – Revolution Precrafted, developers of prefabricated designer homes founded by Robbie Antonio, raising its series B funding valued at over US$1B.

With all indicators pointing to a promising future, and Filipino entrepreneurs rolling up their sleeves to push out the next big thing, here are 10 Filipino-founded startups from the homeland and elsewhere, which are making a difference in their fields.

Reefood

Canada

Since 2015

Founder: Dansion Buan

Sector: Food Waste Reduction

refood.ca

In 2015, entrepreneur Dansion Buan Reefood – a provider that helps food vendors redirect surplus food that would have been thrown out to charitable associations in need. Operating from Vancouver, Canada, in the mere span of three years since its launch, Reefood has been able to supply 10,000 meals per day, preventing over 3,000,000 kgs of food from directly entering the waste stream.

With a track record of participation in several non-profit organizations, Dansion has too worked within numerous business sectors including food, micro finance, tourism, and alternative medicine. Eventually, his business acumen and passion for helping those less fortunate led him to where he stands today.

Functioning within a double-sided market, Reefood has been able to benefit both food vendors and charitable organizations in a myriad of ways. However, more than just helping others benefit through their endeavors, Dansion ultimately hopes that the company’s actions will inspire others to carry out goodwill.

Every single year, roughly one third of food produced globally is either lost or wasted – a fair majority of which is still consumable. It’s been Dansion’s core advocacy to reduce this daunting number to the utmost of his abilities, as well as nourish the lives of those in need.

Virtualahan

virtualahan.com

Philippines

Since 2015

Sector: Technology Social Enterprise focused on People with Disabilities

Founder: Ryan Gersava

Virtualahan is a tech social enterprise that empowers disadvantaged individuals, starting with people with disabilities, indigenous people, and former drug addicts by training them, so that they are equipped with the knowledge to carry out digital work. “We help businesses grow with both our specialization in technology and the human touch,” says founder Ryan Gersava. He further attests: “We provide highly skilled human workforce who can deliver quality output despite their limitations.”

So far, Virtualahan has successfully trained 161 people, who have had a 74% employment rate in 53 cities nationwide – not to mention positively impacted many others through their community building programs. Amidst their numerous achievements, the most significant testament to their success and commendable endeavors was when they were chosen as the 2017 winner of the Google Business Group Stories contest – bagging a momentous first for the Philippines.

At only 25 years old, what Ryan has been able to achieve is nothing short of amazing. As a medical laboratory scientist with extensive training in business, He has prior represented The Philippines at the 20th Youth Assembly at the United Nations in New York as well as the Social Enterprise World Forum in Hong Kong. Ryan is set to attend future global forums regarding pressing international matters relevant to what he stands for.

Having accomplished so much already, the goal remains unfettered for Ryan: “The dream is to create an ecosystem for disadvantaged people to thrive and become leaders of our society in our effort to contribute to building the future of work where no one is left behind. We believe that we can be a force for positive change, capable of moving both our clients’ business and our social mission to create tangible impact.”

GVER – your friendly marketplace for sharing

gver.net

United Arab Emirates

Since September 2017

Founders: Lalaine Chu-Benitez & Mon Benitez

Sector: E-Commerce

“Life has become so hard these days. With the global rise of the cost of living, people find it hard to afford their needs, let alone their wants. We want to give people the alternative of shopping for free, just pay for delivery, utilizing unwanted reusable goods which often end up in landfills, while removing the pains of dealing in second hand markets,” shares Founder Lalaine Chu-Benitez of their early stage startup Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for sharing.

She adds, “Our aim is to give the world an alternative to consumption that’s not only good for the wallet and the heart, but also the planet, by building a thriving global business based on sharing which will serve both individuals and companies; offer not only products, but also services; and that will also allow people to give and take from beyond their local communities.”

Gver, a peer-to-peer platform is a marketplace where people can give-away items which they don’t need to those who want it. Members can also receive items for free. All they have to do is make a request and once it is approved, pay for a nominal delivery charge. “Most of us have some stuff just gathering dust in our closets. And not all of us want to sell in the second hand markets or meet-up with strangers. Gver solves that issue as it makes getting rid of stuff and acquiring new stuff cheap and easy. We just simplified the equation. Why give? Because giving is good, and when you give, you will also receive,” says Lalaine.

Since its soft launch in September 2017, the platform has already 2,500 members and has facilitated the giving-away of hundreds of items ranging from designer bags and clothes, to household goods, baby items, furniture, as well as books, CDs and sporting equipment. Currently serving the UAE, the platform is also set to cover the Philippines shortly. Soon, members will also be able to give and receive free services. In July, Gver is also set to exhibit at Rise Hong Kong, Asia’s biggest tech conference which will showcase some of the world’s most promising startups.

(more…)

July 11, 2018