Business Mentor

Electric firm exec talks about power protection systems in buildings, homesButz Bartolome talks with Robby Anonas Jr., a representative from Fujihaya Electric Corporation, about the importance of power protection systems in buildings and infrastructure. Robby explains how their company plays a key role in bringing high-voltage electricity from power companies down to safe levels (from 115,000 volts to 220 volts) for use in homes, buildings, and commercial spaces. This involves using transformers, switchgears, breakers, and other power control equipment.

Couple finds 'corner' in clothing lineJunmill and Vivien Avellana, the creative minds behind Baby Nelle Corner—a beloved baby girl dress brand — undergo a journey of resilience, learning, and rediscovery.Starting as corporate employees and venturing into the food industry, the couple faced setbacks and failures. It wasn’t until Vivien discovered her passion for designing unique and stylish outfits for their youngest daughter, Nelle, that the seeds of their business were planted. What started as a small reselling venture quickly gained traction, as parents fell in love with their charming, high-quality designs.

Mastering AI: How to be smarter and future-ready with Janette Toral Business Mentor Talks features The Manila Times tech columnist and author Janette Toral*, who recently launched her groundbreaking book, 'Smarter with AI.' Toral deep dives into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI)—what it is, what it isn't, and how both individuals and businesses can harness its power to become more efficient, competitive, and future-ready.

Nanoprotect Eyewear: Innovation for everyday eye protectionNanoprotect is redefining how we protect our eyes in the digital age. Developed by Capt. Roy Rivera and his team, the eyewear uses advanced nano-technology where negative-ion pellets are mixed directly into the frame material. This innovation helps counter the harmful effects of radiation and blue light emitted by gadgets—a modern-day pollution affecting both children and adults. The lenses are also equipped with anti-radiation coating, giving users total eye protection from strain, blurriness, and headaches caused by prolonged screen time.

What does it take to scale a local coffee brand from 5 to 12 stores in just two years? In this episode of Business Mentor Talks, we're brewing up an inspiring conversation with Mark and Christine Vasquez, the entrepreneurial couple behind Coffee Buddy's remarkable growth. From humble bazaar beginnings to preparing for US expansion, this is a masterclass in authentic, community-driven business growth. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs, coffee lovers, and anyone who believes in the power of Filipino brands.

DTI leads celebration of Consumer Awareness MonthEvery October, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) leads the celebration of Consumer Awareness Month — a reminder that every Filipino has the right to be informed, protected, and empowered in every purchase they make. In interviews with Almira Dais Barbosa, Trade Industry Development analyst (TIDA) and Marites Q. Cuevas, senior Trade Industry Development specialist (STIDS), they emphasize the importance of understanding consumer rights — from the right to safety and quality, to the right to choose, to be heard, and to be educated

Gerry Palon, president of the Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (COFACC), shares a groundbreaking event in California, which can open doors for Philippine manufacturers, franchisors, retailers, and logistics providers looking to expand into the US market. Executive Vice President Ellen Samson enticed Filipino entrepreneurs to join the International Asian American Business Expo (IAABE) 2025 for valuable insights on international trade, business networking, and how the IAABE 2025 can be a gateway to global success.

Dr. Gerry and Grace Manalo's culinary journey began at their modest garage where they provided home-cooked meals to students from nearby boarding houses. What started as a small initiative began to grow as word spread about their delicious food and warm hospitality. Soon the expansion included their living room until on Feb. 8, 2005, Genaro was born, which stood for more than just a diner.

Tipid Sulit Laundromat is a business born out of resilience and collaboration during the challenging times of the pandemic. It all began with Jersey Ong, an entrepreneur who had established a foothold in the laundromat industry but needed to focus on his other ventures. Seeking a reliable partner, Ong joined forces with Rod Dilag, an IT specialist whose innovative solutions perfectly complemented the business. With the help of GMB Franchise Developers, Ong and Dilag came up with the name Tipid Sulit, reflecting their commitment to affordability and value. What started as a small venture has expanded into 121 branches across the country.

Marifel Cruz, a licensed pharmacist from Bulacan followed her heart to pursue her true passion—coffee. After practicing her profession, Marifel realized her dream of crafting personalized coffee creations. Starting from her parents garage at the end of the pandemic, she turned her vision into reality with Daylight Cafe. Marifel's mission is simple yet meaningful: to provide delight in every cup.

What started as a simple idea between friends Chris Santos and Casey Cuenca has grown into a thriving business called Wingyard, known for its mouthwatering unlimited chicken wings with 10 irresistible flavors. One is the 'brain' and the other is the 'implementer,' as the friends laid the foundation for their business. The owners of Wingyard, which began in Baguio City, took a calculated risk in a lesser-known location, but ended up expanding to 15 branches across Luzon. Learn about their innovative marketing strategies, from creating a minimalist industrial vibe for their stores to integrating branding into customer experiences like social media selfies.

Building a purpose-driven business from a teacher's heart. A former public school teacher who saw the gap between the Philippine and Japanese education systems turns that insight into an entrepreneurial opportunity.

Prima Donna Guevara: Building a Legacy of Growth. A young CPA-turned-entrepreneur who left the corporate world to empower her hometown in Isabela, as she shares her journey of overcoming isolationand lack of guidance as a fresh graduate.

Junmill and Vivien Avellana, the creative minds behind Baby Nelle Corner - a beloved baby girl dress brand - undergo a journey of resilience, learning and discovery.

Spirit of Galleon Trade Revive in BNI Launch. BNI Manila West launches its first chapter in Manila City - BNI Galleon - reviving the spirit of the historic Galleon Trade that once connected economies and culture.

3 Little Women take different paths to success in business.

Are there any successful examples of entrepreneurs who have expanded their businesses through franchising?Good morning and a fantastic day to you, savvy viewers! Are you curious about entrepreneurial success stories where franchising played a pivotal role in business expansion? Well, you've come to the right place! Since our inception in 1991 at GMB.ph, we've witnessed remarkable growth in franchising, from just a handful of franchises to a booming industry with nearly 2,000 to 3,000 brands across the country as of 2023.Why such exponential growth? Because savvy entrepreneurs like you discovered that franchising is more than just a buzzword—it's a bona fide strategy for success. Take the delectable journey of Mang Inasal, which began with a humble investment of 2,000 pesos in Iloilo and soared to such heights that Jollibee couldn't resist buying it for a cool 5 billion pesos in cash!Let's not forget the sweet rise of Kurimi Milk Tea, which blossomed amidst the pandemic and has now expanded to about 85 stores. Ferinos Bibingka, innovators in rice cakes, and Lots A Pizza, starting from a quaint spot near a university in Mendiola, Manila, have flourished to about 200 branches. Julie's Bake Shop has also risen from a simple bakery to an impressive network of 500 branches.What do these stories tell us? They shout loudly and clearly that franchising is your golden ticket to scaling your business. Never underestimate the power of your brand, and always consider franchising as a strategic move to catapult your enterprise to new heights.Feeling inspired? Ready to take your business to the next level with franchising? Reach out, and let's get the conversation started. I'm Butz Bartolome from gmb.ph, and I'm here to guide you on your franchising journey. Visit gmb.ph to discover more about how we can help turn your franchising dreams into reality.#FranchisingSuccess #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #StrategicExpansion #FranchiseOpportunities

Here’s a comprehensive description of Fred C. Reyes, the man behind SkinStation’s rapid growth — including its expansion to over 100 branches:Fred C. Reyes is a Filipino entrepreneur, award-winning chemist, and the founder, Chairman, and CEO of SkinStation — one of the Philippines’ largest aesthetic dermatology and skincare clinic networks. (Skinstation)Reyes studied Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of the Philippines Diliman, driven by his passion for science and experimentation. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)After graduating, he worked in the chemical industry, including at Union Carbide (Philippines) Inc., where he was involved in regional assignments across Asia. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)He also pursued further education in business to strengthen his corporate and entrepreneurial skills. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)Reyes shifted from corporate life to entrepreneurship by starting his own company, ChemWorld Marketing Corp. in the mid-1980s, focusing on specialty chemical ingredients for personal care products. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)This venture eventually led him deeper into the skincare industry.In 1997, Reyes ventured into clinical skincare with a new product line and services offering natural skincare formulations at a time when many local products used less safe ingredients. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)In 2010, he and his family reorganized under a new corporate structure — My Sanctuary Wellness Center Inc., the holding company of SkinStation. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)Reyes’ leadership of SkinStation has been marked by a strategy to:Blend science and nature in treatments and products, including their in-house professional skincare line Dermax, which he formulated. (Skinstation)Introduce advanced technologies and clinical-grade solutions — such as nano-encapsulation for improved product efficacy and the first local adoption of “waterburst” sunscreen and BB cream technologies. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)Offer premium, world-class treatments at affordable price points, aiming to “democratize” access to quality skincare in the Philippines. (Integrated Chemists of the Philippines)Fred Reyes has been recognized for his contributions to the field of chemistry and skincare, including:The 2008 Achievement Award from the Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies. (Skinstation)The 2011 Outstanding Professional Award in Chemistry from the Professional Regulations Commission. (Skinstation)Under his leadership, SkinStation has grown into one of the nation’s largest skincare clinic networks, boasting over 100 branches nationwide (expanding to well beyond 100 clinics in recent years) and offering services like diode laser hair removal, advanced facials, anti-aging treatments, and more. (Philippines Graphic)Fred Reyes involves his family in the business, with his children taking leadership roles in operations and expansion planning, helping the company grow while maintaining its core values. (Philippines Graphic)In summary:Fred C. Reyes is a scientist-turned-businessman who has leveraged his chemistry background and entrepreneurial vision to build SkinStation into a leading nationwide skincare brand with more than 100 branches. His focus on innovation, quality, accessibility, and family values has been central to the company’s success. (Skinstation)🧑‍🔬 Who Is Fred C. Reyes?🎓 Background & Early Career🧪 From Chemistry to Entrepreneurship💡 Founding SkinStation🌟 Business Vision & Innovations🏆 Accolades & Recognition🏥 The Growth of SkinStation👨‍👩‍👦 Family & Legacy

Every great business has a heart—and for SPICE JAR, that heart beats through the passion, perseverance, and partnership of its founders, Jay-Are and Chef Trin. What began in 2011 as a tiny takeout counter near UPLB—built from Chef Trin’s love for cooking and Jay-Are’s decision to leave a life at sea—has now grown into one of Los Baños’ most beloved Tex-Mex destinations. Their story is a powerful reminder that success is never about perfect timing but about courageous beginnings. Newly married and with Jeya expecting their first child, they took a leap of faith and opened SPICE JAR less than a month after their wedding—armed only with recipes inspired by the food they loved, a few jars of spices, and an unshakeable dream. Their first customers? Their friends and schoolmates—proof that genuine passion attracts genuine support. Word of mouth carried them, but dedication, humility, and teamwork sustained them. From a humble counter to multiple relocations, and now to their biggest and most vibrant space filled with Coco-inspired murals and Austin-Texas artistry, SPICE JAR stands as a testament to growth, reinvention, and purpose. For 14 years, they have served students, families, professionals, and communities with food created with love and seasoned with their signature herbs and spices. Behind the scenes, this power couple demonstrates what true partnership looks like—Jeya mastering the kitchen, product development, and digital presence; JR ensuring top-notch service, operations, and people care. Together, they dream of expanding SPICE JAR across Laguna, Metro Manila, and maybe one day, worldwide. Their message to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially couples?Pray hard. Work harder. Stay passionate. Grow together.Every dream is possible when two people choose to build, sacrifice, and believe as one. This interview is not just about food—it is about faith, family, grit, and vision. SPICE JAR is more than a restaurant. It is a story of love seasoned with courage and served with purpose.

With hosts Sherrie Ann Torres and Julius Segovia, it was a great opportunity to share my insights with viewers and listeners on Doing Business. Interesting exchange of views

Meet Ysh Ventura: A 16-Year-Old Change Maker At just 16 years old, Ysh Ventura is proving that age is no barrier to making a significant impact in our world. As a Grade 12 student at Multi Intelligence International School and the President of United Nations Global Youth President Philippines, Ysh embodies the spirit of youth activism and leadership. During a recent discussion, Ysh shared her insightful thoughts on how today’s youth can drive change in society. She emphasized the importance of being informed, engaged, and proactive in addressing pressing global issues.  "Every small action counts," she said. "Whether it's advocating for climate action, promoting equality, or volunteering in our communities, we all have the power to make a difference." Ysh's passion and dedication inspire us to support and empower the next generation of leaders. Let’s listen to their voices and work together for a better future!  #multiintelligenceinternationalschool #UNYAP #miis #multipleintelligences

Young Couple Turns Hobby of Making Pastillas into a Successful Business Venture Eric and Bernadette Encio are a shining example of a young couple who started with humble beginnings as call center agents but strived to go beyond their present work and create a successful business venture. What started as a simple hobby of making pastilles for Bernadette turned into a lucrative business opportunity for the couple. Their journey began by offering their homemade pastillas to their workmates, which received positive feedback. Encouraged by the response, they decided to test theirThey started their journey by giving their coworkers their homemade pastillas, which received favorable reviews. product with customers outside of their workplace. With a lot of hard work and dedication, Eric and Bernadette were able to fine-tune their recipe and create a unique variant of pastillas that had less sugar but more flavor. The couple's presence in different bazaars and three major malls helped boost their business and motivated them to continue expanding their reach. By joining associations like the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Quezon City Chapter (PCCI QC), Eric and Bernadette were able to gain valuable networking opportunities and learn from experienced colleagues in the industry. Through their inspiring journey, Eric and Bernadette have shown that with determination and passion, anyone can turn their hobby into a successful business venture. Their story serves as a reminder that it is never too late to pursue your dreams and make a positive impact on the world. #PCCIQC #pastillas #franchising

From Hardware to Headline - The Multifaceted Journey of Grace Bondad Nicholas  Grace Bondad Nicholas embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience!  An industrial engineer by profession, her journey began in the vibrant town of Calauan, Laguna, where she learned the value of hard work and precision from her father’s hardware store. This foundation has been instrumental in shaping her successful career in engineering.  Her mother, a dedicated elementary teacher, sparked Grace’s passion for writing, leading her to explore various entrepreneurial ventures—from cosmetics to face masks. Each experience has contributed to her growth, both personally and professionally.  In her quest to empower others, Grace founded *Rising Tigers and Nation Builders*, a magazine that features inspiring leaders who uplift and motivate. Through her work, she continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers.  Grace’s story highlights the importance of diverse experiences and the impact of nurturing creativity. Let's support and uplift each other in our journeys!  #RisingTigersMagazine Grace Bondad Nicolas #PCCIQC #pccilosbaños

Norie Retiro's story is one of resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurship. As a former overseas Filipino worker who spent years away from his family working in the food and beverage industry, he knew the importance of finding a business opportunity that would allow him to stay close to home. It all started with a chance encounter with a plant vendor while on his way to church with his wife. Norie's curiosity was piqued, and he saw the potential in selling plants on the sidewalks of Washington Street. What began as a simple experiment soon turned into a booming business, as he discovered the high demand for plants among city dwellers looking to bring a touch of nature into their urban lives. Norie also saw an opportunity to offer a unique service to offices by bringing in and caring for plants on their behalf. He believed that having greenery in the workplace would not only improve the aesthetics of the space but also create a more positive and productive environment for employees. His idea resonated with many companies, who quickly signed up for his plant maintenance services. Today, Norie is a go-to expert on all things plants, offering advice on the best types of plants for different environments and how to care for them effectively. His business has expanded to cater to various clients, including offices, factories, and even condominium dwellers who are looking to green up their living spaces. Norie Retiro's story reminds us of the importance of finding joy in the simple things – like a leafy green plant on our desk or a vibrant flower in our living room. His journey is a reminder that with determination, creativity, and a little bit of greenery, anything is possible#PCCIQC #plants #plantinthecityph #OFW #greenery #connectingnaturetoyou #UrbanLiving #greenliving #plantitosandplantitas

Join us for an inspiring interview with two dynamic brothers, MJ and Mikey, as they share their journey of taking over and growing their family business, Shrimpy Elly. Learn how they built on the foundation their parents laid to make Shrimpy Elly a well-liked seafood restaurant that welcomes families in this interesting discussion. Discover their unique business strategies, the significance of their special sauce, and their aspirations for national and international expansion. Don't miss this colorful and heartfelt story of passion, hard work, and family bonds. 00:00.6: Interview with Dynamic Entrepreneurs 01:16.61: The Story and Management of Shrimpy Elly 11:17.42: Ambitions and Takeaways for Young Entrepreneurs 13:55.93: Plans for Expansion to the United States 14:28.06: Strategies for Joining the Family Business and Expanding Shrimpy Elly's 17:53.46: Congratulations and Shrimpielli Icon Initiative 18:53.36: Encouragement for Filipino Businesses to Succeed Globally 19:10.39: Expressing Gratitude and Farewell #ShripmyElly #SaucePalangUlamNa #Seafood #2ndGeneration

Join us in this insightful episode of the Business Mentor Talks, featuring Jordan Patente, the Joyful Entrepreneur. Jordan shares his journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs of mental health, the impact of the pandemic, and innovative techniques like sound bath healing. Discover how to maintain mindfulness, achieve work-life balance, and cultivate a joyful, successful entrepreneurial spirit. 00:06.48: The Business Mentor Talks Vlog Introduction 03:17.46: Retirement Goals and Influential Books 04:02.71: Retiring Young and Rich 06:18.48: Challenges and Mental Health During the Pandemic 19:07.04: Journey of Self-Acceptance and Healing 23:29.72: Discussing Physical Fitness, Mindfulness, and Mental Health Program 28:28.67: The Concept of Sound Bath and Its Benefits 28:46.69: Upcoming Online and In-Person Programs and Registration Details 31:48.95: Business Mentor Talks #BusinessMentor #TheJoyfulEntrepreneur

Entrepreneur's Journey: From Driving for Grab to Running a Successful Tech CompanyIn a candid revelation, Edward shares their experience of driving for Grab to pay their IT staff's salaries during a challenging period. Despite facing bankruptcy in 2018, their perseverance led to the success of their company, RedCircle Global School Automation System, which now generates seven-figure annual recurring revenue. Speaker 1 expresses admiration for Speaker 2's humility and dedication.

Join us in this engaging episode of Business Mentor Talks, featuring Armando Butz Bartolome and the founders of Coffee Buddy. In collaboration with the Manila Times, Armando spotlights entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact in their communities. Discover the inspiring journey of Coffee Buddy, a business that started with a passion and now boasts several branches. Gain insights into the entrepreneurial spirit, the importance of branding, and the power of dreaming big while starting small. Perfect for aspiring business owners and those who appreciate a good success story. #BusinessMentor #Entrepreneurship #CoffeeBuddy #ManilaTimes #SmallBusinessSuccess

Are you tired of the 9-to-5 grind? Do you dream of being your own boss and having the freedom to pursue your passions? If so, transitioning from employee to entrepreneurship might be just what you need. In this article, we will explore the exciting journey of becoming an entrepreneur and the steps you can take to make a successful transition. Transitioning from employee to entrepreneurship is not an easy task, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. The first step is to identify your passion and determine what type of business you want to start. Are you interested in technology, fashion, or perhaps food? Find something that you are truly passionate about, as this will be the driving force behind your entrepreneurial journey. Once you have identified your passion, it's time to do some market research and assess the viability of your business idea. Look for gaps in the market that your product or service can fill, and determine if there is a demand for what you have to offer. This will help you understand your target audience and develop a solid business plan. Next, it's important to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to run a successful business. This could involve taking courses, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network and learning from those who have already made the transition can greatly increase your chances of success. As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, it's important to be prepared for the challenges that may arise. The transition from employee to entrepreneur can be daunting, but with perseverance and a positive mindset, you can overcome any obstacles that come your way. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and constantly adapt and evolve your business to stay ahead of the game. Finally, don't forget to celebrate your successes along the way. Transitioning from employee to entrepreneurship is a significant accomplishment, and each milestone reached should be acknowledged and celebrated. Remember to take care of yourself and find a work-life balance that allows you to enjoy the fruits of your labor transitioning from employee to entrepreneurship is an exciting journey that requires passion, preparation, and perseverance. By following these steps and staying true to your vision, you can successfully make the leap and become your own boss. So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards your entrepreneurial dreams today!