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WEEK 11 and 12

Happinoks, established in 2022, is a DTI-registered sole proprietorship in Agusan Canyon known for its delicious fried chicken and refreshing halo-halo, quickly gaining popularity among locals. The business caters to residents, families, young professionals, students, and tourists in search of affordable comfort food in a welcoming, community-focused setting. Despite facing competition from larger chains and limited resources, Happinoks tackles these challenges by prioritizing quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction, which helps build a loyal customer base. Although the business currently operates from a single location, Happinoks plans to gradually expand, potentially opening new branches in nearby areas and offering online ordering and delivery services to reach a wider audience while maintaining its commitment to high-quality food and service.

Camp Alexander, founded in 2018, is a DTI-registered sole proprietorship located in Libona, Bukidnon. The business offers a variety of outdoor activities such as ziplining, rope bridge crossings, horseback riding, animal feeding, fishing, and camping, targeting adventure enthusiasts, families, and tourists seeking unique experiences in nature. While Camp Alexander faces challenges like limited visibility and competition from other destinations, it overcomes these obstacles by focusing on exceptional customer service, word-of-mouth marketing, and social media outreach to attract visitors. Though there are no immediate plans for expansion, the business intends to broaden its offerings, enhance its facilities, and adopt additional marketing strategies to reach more customers in the future.

MK Car Accessories, located in Barangay Tablon, Fatima Subdivision, was established in February 2020 by Karla Gomez. Specializing in car accessories like LED lights, unique horns, and other vehicle enhancements, the business caters mainly to car enthusiasts interested in customizing their vehicles. Despite facing competition from larger stores and limited brand recognition, MK Car Accessories stands out by offering high-quality, unique products and personalized customer service, fostering strong word-of-mouth referrals. While there are no branches, the business is exploring expansion opportunities, including online sales and product diversification, to reach a larger customer base of automotive enthusiasts.

Sinaw Ba Choi Car Wash, launched by Ariel Dela Reta three months ago in a repurposed hardware warehouse, is a DTI-registered business primarily serving residents within his subdivision. The car wash benefits from minimal competition in the area but faces challenges such as managing water spillage and odor, which Ariel addressed by building proper drainage canals. Ariel focuses on providing personalized and convenient services to his customers as a way to overcome these challenges. Instead of expanding through additional branches, Ariel plans to enhance the current location by adding seating areas and envisioning a café or bar where customers can relax while waiting for their cars to be serviced. This expansion aims to increase customer satisfaction and attract more clients.

7.8.7 Laundry Shop, founded by Maira Alog in 2023, serves primarily local families and individuals in her subdivision, providing laundry services. The business faces challenges such as managing customer expectations regarding stain removal and dealing with limited space in the shop. Maira addresses these challenges by ensuring clear communication with clients about achievable results and maintaining an efficient operation. Looking to the future, she plans to expand by offering additional services such as ironing, dry cleaning, and delivery, as well as opening new branches. By focusing on providing quality service and caring for the community, Maira aims to grow a loyal customer base and expand her business sustainably.

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Week 9 and 10

A wide variety of small enterprises are highlighted on this site, each of which is dealing with particular difficulties and coming up with creative solutions. These companies are dedicated to expansion, from Mari's Beef Pares, which is trying to attract a wider audience despite being in a low-traffic location, to JDW Racing and Motoworks, which caters to motorsport fans while being debt-free and competitive. We also examine Artsee Cafe's use of art and coffee to create a unique experience, Sugar Cafe's ambitions for growth and social media use, and a hardware company's ability to adjust to post-pandemic market shifts. Each tale illustrates the tenacity and ingenuity these business owners employ to maintain the success of their enterprises.

The proprietor, Marian Golobiu, opened Mari's Beef Pares in May of this year. Although it has not yet obtained a business authorization, the company is already registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The location, which is in a quiet residential area with little foot traffic, is one of her biggest obstacles. In order to overcome this challenge and reach a larger audience, she is expanding her product line to include beverages and offering food trays and lechon belly online.

Established in 2022 by Joshua Wafiri, JDW Racing and Motoworks is a successful sole proprietorship registered with the DTI that caters to motorcycle owners and motorsport lovers. The company concentrates on providing excellent motorbike services and performance enhancements, with its main branch acting as the center. By keeping its business debt-free and putting the needs of its customers first, JDW takes on obstacles like market competition and changing consumer demands head-on. Although they don't currently have any intentions to grow, they maintain a competitive edge by consistently developing new services and keeping up with market developments. JDW continues to be a reputable brand, stoking riders' enthusiasm with knowledge and commitment.

Sugar Cafe was established in November of last year by Zaheer Dumato. The company has a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registration. Cagayan is home to its first branch, and Marawi is home to another. The diversion of his business money to pay for other expenses is one of the difficulties he faces. He does, however, think that patience and time will be the key to solving this issue. Notwithstanding these obstacles, he intends to extend his business to Cagayan de Oro. He makes active use of social media to build his brand and engage with consumers in order to stay competitive in the food sector.

Artsee Cafe, established in 2019, stands as a DTI-registered sole proprietorship dedicated to art lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. Operating from its main branch, the cafe offers a unique blend of high-quality coffee and a cozy space for creative expression. Facing challenges such as market competition and changing customer preferences, Artsee Cafe has navigated these hurdles by staying debt-free and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. While there are currently no expansion plans, the cafe remains competitive by continuously innovating its menu and hosting art-focused events. Artsee Cafe fuels creativity and connection, making it a go-to spot for inspiration and relaxation.

Canoy Hardware is establised in February 2016, this DTI-registered hardware company has been servicing the community with necessary building supplies. The business, a one-branch sole proprietorship, specializes in serving both builders and homeowners. They managed these difficult times by focusing on financial stability and avoiding debt, even though the epidemic presented major obstacles and slowed down operations. They adapt to changes in the industry and utilize what they have to their advantage to stay ahead of the game, but they do not have a plan to expand. Based on the company's strengths and adapting to the emerging trends, it is able to meet the demands of the clients and support the building sector.

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Week 8

Ovensesami Woodfired Pizzeria Ovensesami Woodfired Pizzeria is a go-to spot for woodfired pizza enthusiasts who appreciate authentic, quality flavors. With minimal challenges, they’ve stayed focused on perfecting their craft and building a solid reputation. Looking ahead, they’re excited to expand internationally, with Europe as their dream destination. By prioritizing top-notch ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, Ovensesami stays at the forefront of the pizza scene, delivering an exceptional dining experience that keeps customers coming back. Paradigm Cafe Paradigm Cafe is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a place where customers can enjoy creative drinks in a refreshing atmosphere. Keeping up with trends, they’re constantly updating their menu, especially when it comes to new drinks. By encouraging team ideas, Paradigm Cafe stays flexible and adaptable. With expansion on their horizon, they’re eager to reach a broader audience. The cafe’s unique flavors and comfortable vibe ensure they remain a standout choice for anyone seeking an innovative café experience. Kian’s Laundry Hub Kian’s Laundry Hub simplifies laundry day with reliable, efficient service for every customer. They often encounter the challenge of handling delicate items like white clothes with stains or meeting specific customer preferences. To address this, they stay transparent about their process, focusing on quality machine washing while managing customer expectations. Kian’s Laundry Hub takes pride in delivering consistent, dependable results, making them a trusted option for hassle-free laundry. Damoa Store Damoa Store is a fresh face in retail, bringing convenience and variety to the neighborhood. Although they sometimes struggle to meet demand for certain items, they are quick to replenish popular products and inform customers of new arrivals. Leveraging Facebook for updates and promotions, Damoa Store stays connected to its growing community. While they’re currently focused on establishing a strong local presence, their dedication to customer satisfaction sets them up for long-term success. Mac’s Salon Mac’s Salon is a friendly, inviting space where customers can enjoy personalized salon services. With customer traffic fluctuating, they’ve tackled the challenge by rolling out enticing promotions to attract more clients. Though expansion isn’t in their plans, Mac’s Salon remains competitive by investing in referrals and occasional Facebook advertising to boost visibility. Their commitment to customer care and affordable offers makes Mac’s Salon a reliable choice for beauty services.

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Week 7

Ovensesami Woodfired Pizzeria Founded by Leni Salvador in August 2023, Ovensesami Woodfired Pizzeria brings a slice of authentic wood-fired pizza to Sugbung Cogon. As a sole proprietorship registered under DTI, it opened its first branch in April 2024, focusing on creating an inviting space where students can enjoy quality pizza on a budget. With a warm atmosphere and fresh, delicious offerings, Ovensesami has quickly become a local hotspot.

Paradigm Cafe Paradigm Cafe, established in 2023 and DTI-registered, is a student-centric coffee spot owned by Ely. Known for its cozy setting, it’s ideal for studying or socializing over a warm cup of coffee. Although it’s still operating with one location, Paradigm Cafe has captured the hearts of students looking for an affordable place to unwind and fuel up.

Kian's Laundry Hub Since 2019, Kian’s Laundry Hub has provided easy and efficient laundry solutions, offering quick and reliable service to its clients. SEC-registered and managed by Maricar Kogos, the business has expanded to include three branches: Kian’s, Sofia’s, and Liam’s Laundry Hubs. Kian’s is known for its dedication to quality and convenience, serving busy customers who want dependable laundry care.

Damoa Store Damoa Store, owned by Moris Lee and run by Kristina Montero, opened eight months ago as a one-stop shop for affordable Korean snacks and drinks. DTI-registered, the store sources products directly from legitimate suppliers, making it a reliable option for Korean food lovers. Its unique selection has quickly attracted a following, and it’s become a popular destination for budget-friendly, authentic Korean products.

Mac’s Salon With over a decade of experience since opening in 2011, Mac’s Salon has built a solid reputation for its quality beauty services. Owned by Jassel Macaranas and registered under DTI, the salon specializes in hairdressing and beauty treatments that keep clients coming back. Known for its welcoming environment and skilled staff, Mac’s Salon has become a staple in the community for those seeking professional grooming.

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Week 6

Hustle Hard

Facing the challenge of low customer traffic and slower cash flow, Hustle Hard adapted by transitioning to online selling, using social media to reach new customers and offering delivery for added convenience. This shift has opened up new growth avenues, and while expansion is still in the planning stage, they’re optimistic about the future.

LJ Prints

LJ Prints nearly faced bankruptcy when they initially opened in Canitoan. To turn things around, they moved to a new location where business picked up, helping them reach more customers. Now, they’re considering a return to Metro Square to capture a larger audience and build on their newfound stability.

Melquiades Laundry

Melquiades Laundry has enjoyed steady business with few major challenges, making reliability their strong suit. Although expansion isn’t confirmed, their continued success in serving their community suggests that the business could grow if the owner chooses to take that step.

Woof Paint

For Woof Paint, marketing was an initial struggle, but they found success by promoting their products on Facebook, which has helped them connect with local customers. Planning for future growth, Woof Paint keeps a competitive edge by consistently refreshing its product selection, ensuring they stay relevant in a competitive market.

Melquiades Pharmacy

Melquiades Pharmacy has faced challenges in managing the sale of antibiotics, as some customers seek to buy them without prescriptions. Despite this, the pharmacy continues to focus on responsible service and has plans for expansion, aiming to provide trusted healthcare products to even more customers in the future.

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Week 5

For our fifth week interview we interviewed from pharmacies,pet store, laundromats and printing services each business has a story of dedication and determination. So now we look at five thriving sole proprietorships that are making their mark.

Melquiades Pharmacy Melquiades Pharmacy, established in 2017, this store offers essential medicines to the local community. As a DTI-registered sole proprietorship, the pharmacy prides itself on providing personalized service, ensuring that customers find the medicines they need without the hassle. With no current plans to expand through branches, Melquiades Pharmacy remains focused on building trust and loyalty among its existing customers.

Woof Paint Woof Paint is the first of its kind in Indahag, Cagayan de Oro, catering to pet owners in search of reliable pet supplies. Opened by Kyle Razem Uy Alatunay in April 2024, the store targets pet enthusiasts, ensuring they have access to quality products. Although marketing remains a challenge for this new venture, Kyle’s dedication to posting regularly on social media helps bring in new customers. As the only pet store in the area, Woof Paint is planning future expansion while continuously offering creative products to stand out in the market.

Melquiades Laundry For customers in need of laundry services, Melquiades Laundry is the go-to solution. Launched in September 2024 by Merlin Sumog-oy, this DTI-registered business simplifies life by offering top-notch laundry services. Despite being a single-location operation, Melquiades Laundry focuses on delivering high-quality cleaning to ensure customer satisfaction. Its localized approach and focus on excellent service make it a reliable option for people needing clean clothes .

LJ Prints Since 2012, LJ Prints has been a key player in the printing business, meeting the demands of customers who need reliable, high-quality printing services. Managed by April Rose Bulls and Helen Grace, this DTI-registered business prides itself on its personalized service and attention to detail. Even without additional branches, LJ Prints has successfully served its clients, maintaining a strong presence in the local market.

Hustle Hard Founded in 2021, Hustle Hard embodies the resilience and hard work that go into building a successful business. Registered under DTI, this sole proprietorship focuses on offering tailored services to its target market. With no current branches, Hustle Hard centers on providing value to its loyal customers, setting a foundation for long-term growth. These businesses show that with determination and a focus on their target customers, small, locally owned businesses can thrive in their communities. Whether you need medicine, pet supplies, laundry services, or printing needs, these entrepreneurs have you covered, offering convenience and quality every step of the way.

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Week 4

We recently interviewed five local businesses in Cagayan de Oro to learn about their challenges and how they stay competitive. Here’s what the owners had to say.

RAMS Auto Parts Trading Trading shared that their biggest challenge is strong competition, especially from other businesses in Osmeña. Since their products aren’t always in high demand, they promote their services through Facebook Groups to reach more customers. Although they are unsure about expanding to another branch, they keep up with the latest equipment trends to meet customer needs.

Rose Apparel Being a new clothing store, Rose Apparel faces challenges in building a customer base. "Being a new business is tough," the staff explained. To attract customers, they focus on social media marketing to showcase their products. While they don’t have specific plans for expansion yet, they are dedicated to growing their online presence to gain more visibility.

IServe IServe, a computer repair shop, faces challenges with sales. The owner mentioned that they adapt to changes in the market by going with the flow. They have plans to expand their business within Cagayan de Oro to reach more customers. To stay competitive, they continually study the latest tech trends to provide high-quality services.

SouthVapor The biggest challenge for them is dealing with the BIR. However, they have overcome this by promoting their products online. The owner said that they use social media to market their services. They plan to expand their store soon. SouthVapor stands out by providing excellent customer service and offering vape repair services.

Toyland Bistro Owners Francis and Lauren Tabacungan of Toyland Bistro discussed how they stand out in the crowded food and coffee industry. They created a fun, toy-themed environment that attracts both kids and adults. They are considering opening new branches in other cities. To remain competitive, they keep their menu fresh and the overall experience exciting for their customers.

Insights The interviews with five local businesses in Cagayan de Oro reveal that despite facing challenges like strong competition, low demand, sales issues, and regulatory hurdles, each business adapts to survive and grow. Whether it's RAMS Auto Parts Trading using Facebook Groups, Rose Apparel and SouthVapor leveraging social media for visibility, or Toyland Bistro and IServe focusing on customer experience and innovation, these businesses rely on digital marketing and personalized services to remain competitive. Their ability to evolve and connect with customers helps them thrive in a dynamic market.

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Week 3

As we go on exploring Cagayan De Oro we've discovered different types of business that not just thriving but also enriching our community with their unique offerings. Here’s a closer look at five remarkable establishments that are worth supporting.

RAMS Auto Parts Trading has been serving the community since 2003, founded by Sheena Marie Ramos. Located on Jose Calo Agudo St, this sole proprietorship specializes in heavy equipment parts and is registered under DTI. Their dedication to providing high-quality components has made them a reliable resource for industries like construction and agriculture, ensuring that machinery operates smoothly.

Rose Apparel, a newcomer to the local fashion scene, opened its doors in August 2023. Managed by Mirarose Ligado and Danien Vincent One C Birtubin, this sole proprietorship is also DTI-registered and offers a wide range of clothing that appeals to various customers. With a focus on style and quality, Rose Apparel invites shoppers to explore its trendy collections in a welcoming atmosphere.

For tech enthusiasts, IServeis the go-to destination for computer repairs. Founded in 2019 by Kevin Samontiga, this sole proprietorship has quickly established a reputation for reliable service. With Ms. Clixso Jaya Alisonha on the team, IServe is dedicated to providing expert solutions for all computer-related issues, helping customers get their devices back in working order.

If you’re a vaping enthusiast, SouthVapor is a must-visit. Established in 2013 by Xavier Lapuz, this DTI-registered sole proprietorship has grown to operate three branches, offering an extensive selection of vapes and vape juices. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made SouthVapor a leading choice for the vaping community.

Lastly, Toyland Bistro is located at Max Y. Suniel St, Cagayan de Oro the store opened on October 11, 2023, by Francis and Lauren Tabacungan, brings a delightful toy-themed coffee experience to the city. This sole proprietorship is also registered under DTI and provides a fantastic atmosphere where customers of all ages can enjoy their favorite drinks while surrounded by nostalgic toys. It’s a perfect spot for families and friends to gather.

Each of these businesses contributes to the local economy and provides valuable services to our community. By supporting RAMS Auto Parts Trading, Rose Apparel, IServe, SouthVapor, and Toyland Bistro, we not only benefit from their unique offerings but also help strengthen the fabric of our city. So, let’s make it a point to check them out and support our local entrepreneurs!

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Week 2

For our second round of interviews

We had the opportunity to speak again with Mr. Mark Madello, a staff member at Remax Store located in SM Downtown. Our discussion focused on the store's challenges, how they’ve navigated past obstacles, their expansion plans, and strategies for staying competitive. The main challenges for Remax are competition and shifting customer preferences towards online shopping, making it difficult to stay relevant in a crowded market. To address these issues, the store has focused on excellent customer service, updating their product offerings, and using digital marketing to maintain customer loyalty and attract new shoppers. While they are considering opening a new branch, they did not specify its location. To remain innovative, they closely monitor market trends, listen to customer feedback, and invest in staff training to provide top-tier service.

At the second store, Better Components Inc., we asked more in-depth questions about their challenges, expansion plans, and how they stay competitive. Mr. Cago shared that supply chain disruptions and competition with online audio retailers are their primary challenges. To overcome these, they have established strong supplier relationships to ensure product availability and have focused on in-store promotions and personalized audio demos to compete with online stores. While they have expansion plans, nothing is confirmed yet. To remain competitive, they offer the latest audio technology, hands-on speaker demos, and expert advice, which online competitors can't replicate.

At Camerahaus, we spoke to their staff about the challenges they face. They identified rapid technological advancements in cameras and photography gear, as well as increased competition from online retailers, as their biggest hurdles. To overcome this, they focus on providing excellent customer service and expert advice that online stores lack. They also keep their inventory up to date with the latest camera models and accessories, attracting tech-savvy customers. Camerahaus is planning to expand to a new location and remains competitive by offering hands-on product demonstrations and photography workshops for enthusiasts, while continuously updating their product lineup with the latest gear.

At Bagel Girl, the staff highlighted intense competition from both local boutiques and online retailers as their major challenge, along with keeping up with fast-changing fashion trends. To address this, Bagel Girl offers a unique product selection and personalized customer service. They also use social media to engage with customers and showcase new arrivals, building a sense of community. Their future plans include expanding their online presence to reach more customers beyond their store in SM Downtown. To stay competitive, they regularly update their inventory with the latest fashion accessories and host in-store events to create a lively shopping experience, while prioritizing customer feedback to align their offerings with customer preferences.

Lastly, at Our Home, we interviewed their manager once again. She mentioned that their primary challenge is boosting sales, which they address through social media promotions. The store has no plans for expansion. To remain innovative and competitive, they consistently introduce new items and designs to keep their product range up to date. When asked if the store is part of SM Holdings, she confirmed that it is under the SM umbrella.

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Week 1

WEEK 1 INTERVIEW:

We Interviewed 5 stores SM downtown August 29, 2024 around 11 am.

First Store was named “REMAX”, this store selling a different types of computer parts and electronic devices. We ask one of their staff named Mr. Mark Madello the Company started operating since 2021 without corporate company, and successfully started their 3 other branches in Mindanao. The main branch located at SM Lanang of Davao and SM uptown CDO.

Second Store named “BETTER (Components Inc)”; this store started since 1989. They sell Pro Audio equipment’s such as guitars, drums, piano and many more and also, they sell spare parts for your personal instruments. This company is corporate with BOSC, YAMAHA, and PALK AUDIO. This company has 5 total branches operating today, those branches located at gensan, davao which is their main store, SM masinag of antipolo city, manila, Butuan and lanang.

The Third store is named “CAMERAHAUS” we interviewed Mr. Jason sobiano this company started at May 2021, and this store sell Camera’s and accessories such as DSLR, digital cameras and mirror less cameras. and since this store offer multiple variants of cameras, they have plenty of camera brands at their store. Their main branch located at manila they only have2 branches here in Mindanao, at SM DOWNTOWN and in BUTUAN the total branch nationwide is 16.

The fourth Store named “BAGEL GIRL” we Interviewed Ms. Zyradel calaado on what year this company started and we know that this company started at 2018, this store sells ladies fashion wear like earrings, necklace, wigs, and many more for girls who want to make their selves prettier. They got sister company named “broad way gems” located at GAISANO MALL of CDO and they got another branch for “BAGEL GIRL” located at SM UPTOWN.

The last store that we went through for the interview is named “OUR HOME” and we interview their store manager Ms. Almera Fernandez Without corporate company this store started operating way back 2017. This store is selling furniture for home and business decoration. They offer a good quality furniture and decoration for their customer satisfaction.

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PERSONAL TEST As I Finished my personal test, I didn’t expect that ill become Commander based on what I’ve answered. I really do love finishing task a head of time to avoid struggle in schedule, being extraverted is more exciting because I encounter people with different insight of facing problems in life. INDEX TEST Taking index test is great idea to see if you’re making use your full potential and you are willing to listen to your co-members for their idea that can help your team to build a better outcome for your desired goals.