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Week 7-8 (Company Profile & Insights)

MV1 Consumer Good Trading

MV1 Consumer Good Trading, located in the busy city of Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental is a company that has come to represent dependability and quality at thrift stores. The two sisters' father inspired them to share a vision which led to the creation of MV1 Consumer Good Trading on October 15, 2007. With just 700 pesos this family-run firm began by buying and selling ready-to-wear (RTW) clothing, with a particular emphasis on "ukay-ukay" or used goods. Over the years, MV1 carving out a reputation in the RTW and shoe market. The name "MV1" has a special significance. It combines the initials of the sisters' father's first name, "M," and surname, "V," with "1" symbolizing their very first business venture. This name not only represents their family but also stands as a testament to their commitment and dedication. Under the leadership of Maria the manager, and owned by her sister MV1 continues to uphold its core values rooted in family and quality service. Operating as a sole proprietorship with a DTI permit MV1 has kept things simple yet efficient. Unlike many thrift shops MV1 offers high quality thrift clothes sourced from the U.S.. This approach ensures that customers receive branded items with enduring quality setting MV1 apart from its competitors who may not guarantee the same standard.

Kicks Tees And Apparel

Charlie P. De La Torre founded Kicks Tees and Apparel which has grown to be a well-liked shopping destination in Cagayan de Oro and beyond. The store has grown to six locations overall with three in CDO alone. It is situated on RN Abejuela Street and Tirso Neri Street. With a focus on brand-new shoes and apparel, Kicks Tees and Apparel stands out in a market where many competitors offer a mix of new and thrifted items. Kicks Tees and Apparel specializes in sports and casual wear particularly items like dry-fit clothing and a wide range of brand-new shoes. Unlike many other stores they pride themselves on offering only new products setting them apart from competitors that often include thrifted or secondhand items in their inventory. This commitment to quality is a key aspect of the store’s brand identity. One unique feature of Kicks Tees and Apparel is its inclusive target market. As a business that serves a diverse customer base the store caters to people from all walks of life with a goal to provide quality products for everyone.

KB Collection

In the crowded city of Cagayan de Oro a small fashion brand with big dreams has been creating waves both within and outside of the community. In 2013, Lovely Anne, Jovie's and her husband's daughter, founded KB Collection which began as a modest endeavor mostly through meetups. This firm, which started off with just PHP 500 in funding has developed into a reputable name in outfit rentals and currently has an amazing 69,000 Facebook followers. KB Collection isn't a name that just happened. In fun reference to Lovely's curly hair, "K" stands for "Kulot" (curly), and "B" is the family's last name. The brand has a familiar, welcoming feel because to this distinctive personal touch that appeals to their local audience. Initially operating without a physical location they opened their first storefront in 2015 allowing them to reach more customers and make the pickup and meetup process easier for online orders.Unlike many other local competitors KB Collection has a solid digital presence particularly on social media. According to Jovie, they heavily rely on their Facebook page to promote their products, connect with customers, and expand their reach. This online approach has proven highly successful allowing them to grow faster than they would through a traditional walk-in model.

Aurora's Fashion House

Aurora’s Fashion House is a family-owned retail business in Cagayan de Oro run by Jude Ledesma. Originally started by her daughter in 2020 Jude took over the store when her daughter faced financial difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic. With retirement savings as a safety net Jude stepped in to sustain the shop. This decision was driven by her dedication to keeping the business afloat despite the setbacks posed by the pandemic. The pandemic hit Aurora’s Fashion House hard with sales barely reaching PHP 100 while space rent was a steep PHP 45,000. Jude’s financial challenges were compounded when her daughter underwent a kidney transplant, necessitating trips to Manila and causing temporary closures of the shop. Even now, Jude faces hurdles in stabilizing the business drawing on her savings to manage expenses and cover losses.Despite the difficulties Aurora’s Fashion House has carved out a niche in the market by offering ready-to-wear (RTW) clothes and accessories with a focus on authentic party dresses sourced directly from suppliers in China, including Shein. This sets them apart from local competitors who may sell imitations or locally produced versions of popular brands.

Good Morning Coffee

A popular destination for both workers and students Good Morning Milktea is tucked away in the center of Cagayan de Oro and offers a distinctive combination of affordability and quality. Founded on August 30, 2019, this thriving business was inspired by a successful milktea shop launched by the owner's sister in Manila. Seeing the potential Sharlene Reyes decided to bring this delightful brand to her hometown starting with a humble cart at a cyberzone in front of XU and later expanding to a permanent branch on Pabayo Street in March 2020. The name "Good Morning Milktea" holds special meaning. It’s inspired by Sharlene’s sister whose name means "sun" symbolizing warmth and a fresh start each day. This name reflects the company's ethos providing a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates new beginnings and possibilities for everyone who steps through its doors. As a sole proprietorship with a DTI permit, Good Morning Milktea started with an initial capital of 90,000 pesos. Since its inception the company has been committed to serving affordable yet high-quality products aiming to make each drink memorable. The brand stands out not only for its carefully crafted drinks but also for its distinct-tasting pearls which set it apart from competitors.

During our interviews with several entrepreneurs from Cagayan de Oro City a remarkable tapestry of insights emerged showcasing both the resilience and creativity driving these small businesses. Each business owner from the worlds of retail fashion, thrift goods, and food service shared stories that underscored a shared commitment to growth, family values, and adaptability in the face of challenges.

MV1 Consumer Good Trading, led by two sisters exemplifies the power of family-driven entrepreneurship. Inspired by their father’s vision they launched their first business with just PHP 700 focusing on high-quality thrift clothing from the U.S. The sisters’ dedication to providing quality goods has set MV1 apart in the crowded "ukay-ukay" market. Their journey highlighted the importance of staying true to one’s values and origins as well as the enduring influence of family legacy in shaping business identity.

Kicks Tees and Apparel, founded by Charlie De La Torre demonstrated the importance of product quality and specialization. Focusing exclusively on brand-new sportswear and footwear, Charlie has built a loyal customer base by standing out in a market filled with mixed new and thrifted offerings. His growth from a single location to six stores is a testament to his focus on quality and inclusivity serving people from all walks of life. His story is a reminder of how a unique value proposition and a commitment to quality can propel growth.

KB Collection, a brand founded by Lovely Anne and managed by her mother Jovie offers an inspiring example of the power of social media in business expansion. Starting with just PHP 500 and relying heavily on their Facebook presence KB Collection has grown to a following of 69,000. Their brand’s quirky name inspired by Lovely’s curly hair and their family’s last name initial adds a personalized touch that resonates with local customers. This digital-focused approach has allowed KB Collection to grow rapidly showcasing the impact of leveraging online platforms for small businesses.

Aurora's Fashion House, run by Jude Ledesma paints a picture of resilience amid adversity. When her daughter could no longer manage the business due to health and financial struggles Jude stepped in using her retirement savings to keep the business afloat. Despite challenges with rent and the need for frequent closures due to her daughter's medical needs, Jude’s perseverance shines through. Aurora’s Fashion House distinguishes itself by offering authentic, high-quality party dresses, a niche that helps them stand out. Jude’s story highlights the power of a mother’s love and the sacrifices often made to sustain a family business.

Good Morning Milktea, led by Sharlene Reyes embodies warmth and community spirit. Inspired by her sister’s successful milktea venture in Manila, Sharlene decided to bring a piece of that joy to Cagayan de Oro. The shop’s name inspired by the symbolism of “morning” as a fresh start reflects Sharlene’s vision of providing a welcoming space. Good Morning Milktea quickly became popular with students and workers alike emphasizing quality and affordability. Sharlene’s approach to creating an inviting atmosphere shows how thoughtful branding and community connection can drive customer loyalty.

Through these conversations a shared theme emerged the significance of family values, resilience, and adaptability in navigating the challenges of small business ownership. Each entrepreneur showcased a unique approach to building and sustaining their brand, whether through quality, digital presence, or a commitment to community. Their journeys reveal that success often stems not only from hard work but also from a deep personal commitment to their craft and customers.

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Nestled in the heart of Nazareth, Cagayan de Oro, 8thspresso is a cafe born out of passion and purpose founded by sisters Gemarie and Monique on August 12, 2023. What started as a pop-up with a modest ₱600,000 capital quickly grew into a beloved spot for locals, students and professionals. The name 8thspresso carries significance blending their lucky number '8' symbolizing infinity with the word “espresso” and reflecting its location on 8th Street. Challenges such as managing a growing customer base and dealing with WiFi and power issues the cafe overcame these hurdles with resilience adapting to meet customer needs. They even found that limited WiFi access led to a temporary drop in customers but by introducing new food items and maintaining a focus on quality they brought customers back. Miss Gemarie who manages daily operations and staff training is dedicated to ensuring every cup of coffee meets their high standards never compromising on quality. 8thspresso currently employs six staff members double from its initial team of three and looks to the future with plans to expand by selling coffee beans and opening more branches. The cafe’s welcoming atmosphere attracts a diverse mix of students, board exam takers, young professionals and LGU workers all seeking a space to work, relax or connect. As 8thspresso continues to grow the owners aim to stay true to their commitment to quality and community striving to become a staple in Cagayan de Oro’s coffee scene for years to come.

Founded by Michael Angelo Bustamante a marketing graduate from Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro, Sports Lab began in March 2024 with a clear purpose to provide premium sportswear for leagues and events in CDO with a special focus on basketball and e-sports. The name reflects their passion for sports likening the business process to a laboratory an environment for experimentation and growth. With their workshop based on Nazareth Street, Cagayan de Oro, and their warehouse in Libona, Bukidnon, Sports Lab is committed to producing high-quality sports apparel all meticulously crafted from scratch by their dedicated tailoring team. Starting with a capital of ₱500,000, ₱1 million with equipment Michael faced the challenges of learning the tailoring business from the ground up overcoming obstacles like miscommunication and stress through problem solving and teamwork. With a team of five Sports Lab has earned its reputation by consistently supplying uniforms to leagues and sports enthusiasts growing their client base through partnerships and strong connections in sports communities. Their marketing strategy emphasizes collaborations allowing the brand to expand organically. One of their milestones includes providing gear for different organizations and courts in CDO further solidifying their presence in the local sports scene. Sir Michael sees Sports Lab becoming one of the top sportswear brands in CDO in the coming years with a focus on staying competitive, adapting to trends, and treating employees with fairness. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? Start from the bottom, stay consistent with your work and always keep up with industry trends.

The Overruns Republik started in 2008 with an initial budget of ₱600,000 to ₱700,000. It operated as a cafe store but soon expanded into selling shoes. It now has three branches one in Pabayo and two in Divisoria with five employees. The business is primarily run by family members. Their marketing strategy includes live selling to attract customers. They struggled to get bank support but as the business grew banks began offering them services. The business allowed the owner June Ryan Duran to acquire both a house and a car. Sir June did not allowed us to take picture with him.

Kirby’s Magic Kanan owned by Kirby De La Cruz, has been serving the food needs of students particularly those from Xavier University since it started in 2006. With an initial investment of ₱200,000 this sole proprietorship began as a family business built with a focus on affordability and convenience. It has expanded to employ seven people offering not just traditional "karenderia" style meals but also food packages and catering services which have been a part of their offerings for almost three years now. Although the peak of their sales happens during lunchtime the business has noticed that students are increasingly gravitating toward food chains and coffee shops making it more challenging to attract regular customers. To address this Kirby’s Magic Kanan has shifted its focus to catering which now generates higher revenue than their dine-in services. Sir Kirby hopes to refine the business and position it as one of the top food stores and karenderias in Cagayan de Oro continuing to build on the legacy his parents started while adjusting to changing market demands.

MACDO Models is a modeling agency was established around 2010 with an initial investment of ₱15,000. The agency offers modeling services and has successfully produced some of the top models in the Philippines and Cagayan de Oro City. One of their major challenges has been the lack of binding contracts, which has led to some models transferring to other agencies. The agency has achieved significant success. Led by Zoey MACDO Models aims to grow and become more well-known throughout Cagayan de Oro City.

During our interview with these diverse entrepreneurs from Cagayan de Oro City, several insights stood out reflecting both the challenges and triumphs of small to medium sized businesses. Across industries whether food service, sportswear, or modeling each business owner highlighted common themes of passion, resilience and a commitment to growth despite market shifts and operational challenges.

8thspresso, the sisters Gemarie and Monique showed how their love for coffee and community allowed them to transform a pop-up into a beloved local cafe. Their challenges particularly around adapting to customer expectations for WiFi and service taught them the importance of listening to their patrons and making thoughtful changes. It was inspiring to hear Miss Gemarie emphasize how doubling their staff from three to six people wasn't just about expansion it was about maintaining quality service,which has always been the core of their business.

Sports Lab, founded by Michael Angelo Bustamante gave us a glimpse into the complexities of entering a competitive niche like sportswear. Michael was candid about the steep learning curve in tailoring and production but his story also highlighted how resourcefulness and networking in the sports community have led to sustained growth. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to "stay grounded and work their way up" was particularly meaningful as it was a reminder that slow steady progress often outshines rapid but unsustainable success.

Kirby’s Magic Kanan provided an interesting perspective on adapting to shifting market trends. Sir Kirby's journey from a simple "karenderia" to a catering focused business demonstrated the need to stay nimble. His ability to pivot toward catering services in response to students leaning more toward commercial food chains is a testament to his keen sense of market demand and adaptability. It was clear that family values and consistency play a huge role in his success and Kirby’s long term vision remains rooted in growth while respecting his parents’ legacy.

MACDO Models offered an insight into the highly competitive modeling industry where talent retention is one of the biggest challenges. Zoey’s experience showed how success in this field is often fleeting without the necessary legal protections. The agency’s achievements in launching top models demonstrate their talent in spotting potential and nurturing it. The next phase of MACDO’s journey appears to be more structured with Zoey aiming for a stronger foothold both locally and nationally.

Through these conversations it became evident that while each business faced unique hurdles they all shared a common determination to innovate and grow within their respective fields. Whether it was through pivoting business strategies, expanding operations or refining their product offerings these entrepreneurs illustrated that success comes from a mix of persistence, adaptation, and a deep connection with their customer base.

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AV Surfer AV Surfer was founded in 1996 under the trade name "Avid Sales-AV Surfer" and specialized in audio-video gadgets offering a comprehensive choice of multi-brand products. With over 400 people the company maintains 12 AV Surfer branches and 20 Sony Centres dedicated specifically to Sony products. The company had difficulty during the COVID-19 epidemic which resulted in staff losses. AV Surfer separates itself from competition by providing great customer service and emphasizing sales goals with productivity constantly monitored by local managers. The epidemic also changed their focus away from walk-in mall sales and toward e-commerce and digital marketing.

Adorno's Adorno's is a locally owned business run by Julieta Adorno with Aida working as a sales representative. Established in 2005, the company first marketed pasalubongs (local delicacies) before expanding into abaca-based products such as bags, caps and sandals. What distinguishes Adorno's from competitors is their commitment to employing 100% abaca a traditional Filipino material. Their primary market is mainly Filipinos as they want to promote local products. The company hopes to expand its branch network and improve its products and services on a continuous basis.

Valiant Electronic and Hardware Supply On June 1, 2013 Valiant Electronic and Hardware Supply a small firm with about 30 employees was founded in Cagayan de Oro. Making money is their primary goal. Despite its tiny size the company prioritizes customer satisfaction by offering the finest possible service without studying rivals. They place a strong value on providing excellent customer service and maintaining a healthy workplace. Unknown to the wider public Valiant takes pride in how much it values its employees particularly in light of the current pandemic.

Jet Hardware Jet Hardware was formerly known as Solomon. It was founded in 1998 and specializes in construction supplies and hardware components. The company works from a single branch in Cagayan de Oro, Lapasan and employs a committed crew of seven people. Jasmine who has worked with the company for over 20 years is in charge of the store and Edwin owns it. Jasmine appreciates her profession and is proud of her significant knowledge. Jet Hardware uses online marketing to broaden its consumer base in addition to serving walk-in customers. Despite first venturing into social media marketing the company now prioritizes in-store interactions while remaining open to new marketing techniques in the future.

Circuit and Beads Circuits and Beads is an electronics store that has been in business for over 33 years. They specialize in electrical parts, sound systems, CCTV systems and other electronic instruments. Jeffrey owns the business which has three outlets in Cagayan de Oro and employs nine people. Fred works as one of the salespeople. Despite the challenges of operating in a less congested area the company has grown thanks to solid client relationships and a positive work atmosphere. The store's fortitude enabled it survive the pandemic cementing its status as a prominent electronics retailer in the region. Circuits and Beads hopes to grow more over the next five years. The fundamental advise they give for success in business is to "study the store, have patience, and be confident."

AV Surfer, Adorno's, Valiant Electronic and Hardware Supply, Jet Hardware, and Circuits and Beads demonstrate tenacity, adaptability, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

Despite problems like the pandemic these businesses prioritize client relationships and excellent service. AV Surfer has turned to e-commerce while Jet Hardware, Circuits and Beads continue to emphasis in-person service with plans to increase their internet presence. Adorno's has developed a niche with 100% abaca products that emphasize the significance of local and traditional resources, whereas Valiant prioritizes staff well-being and a positive work environment to improve consumer happiness.

These businesses are united by their ability to adapt and grow whether through product diversification, greater service, or the adoption of digital tools. Their experiences demonstrate that resilience and customer loyalty are critical to overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.

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The interview we did last August 30, 2024, was a great experience since we interacted with a great owner and managers. The first manager we interviewed was from Yellow Cab Corporation. The company was founded in 2000, and he was assigned as a branch manager 2 years ago. We learned during his interview that as a manager you should always check your co-workers if they are fine, from this your co-workers will be motivated to work in your company and for him, treating his co-workers as family is a key to gaining their respect.

The second company we interviewed was Sunburst, which was founded on August 17,2017. This company has 14 branches only from Visayas and Mindanao. Sunburst has demonstrated tremendous flexibility, especially during the COVID-19 epidemic. The introduction of delivery services via third party apps and in house individuals helped to sustain the business while also providing extra revenue options for employees. When the Centrio Ayala branch closed, attention turned to the Limketkai location, which was better suited to takeout and delivery. Sunburst expanded marketing efforts in slower months like August and September to accommodate seasonal swings and natural disasters such as flooding.

Hube Computer Store, founded in 2017 by Kevin Patrick Sabang Agravante, has established itself as a leader in the IT business in Cagayan de Oro, Northern Mindanao. With a modest start-up capital of 200,000 pesos and only two employees, Kevin and his brother Popot, the family-owned business has expanded swiftly, now operating four branches around Mindanao. The moniker "Hube," which comes from the Greek term for "wise man," represents the company's commitment to providing clever, customer-focused IT solutions. Overall, she just said what was Hube all about and too shy to share about her leadership to us.

We interviewed the manager of the fourth company which is Yuri's Coffee Roaster. Yuri's Coffee Roaster launched on August 17, 2021, amid the pandemic. Named after the owner's son, Yuri, the café has a family-oriented foundation and tries to provide a comfortable location for families and groups. The proprietors were motivated by their frequent visits to various coffee shops and wanted to establish a friendly place for shared times over coffee. The café opened with four employees: two baristas and two cashiers. They are currently struggling in their slow market according to her they have had so many competitors since CDO became the coffee shop capital of the Philippines, after all of that, they become consistent with their products because it is the thing that makes them memorable for the customer.

We interviewed the owner of our fifth company interview, which is Lifeline Coffee Brewers. Lifeline Coffee Brewers officially debuted on August 9, 2022, but its history dates back far further. The founders are Dan Matthew Tan and Elysa Mae Go-Tan. Their journey began in college, with a love of coffee and food. What began as a hobby in 2019, involving barista training has evolved into a full-fledged company. Despite delays due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Lifeline Coffee Brewers stood out as a monument to their tenacity and dedication. What I've learned from his experience is that, if we open a business don't stick with the cheaper price products because the risk is very expensive and the reputation of your company is at risk too. The owner also shared that if we start a business and you make it stable we should start investing in marketing because it will have a great impact on your company

The interviews we conducted on August 30, 2024, were an eye opening experience for me. It wasn’t just about learning the stories behind these businesses but also about understanding the people who run them, their values and what makes their companies successful. Hearing directly from the owners and managers gave me a new perspective on what it takes to lead and grow a business especially in challenging environments.

Our first interview with the branch manager of Yellow Cab Corporation really stood out. What struck me most was his belief in treating his co-workers like family. It made me realize how much relationships matter in the workplace. I always thought being a manager was about making sure the work got done but this manager showed me that checking in on people’s well-being is just as important. When employees feel cared for they are more motivated and productive. It was a simple but powerful lesson that I hope to carry with me in any leadership role I might take in the future.

Talking with the team from Sunburst made me appreciate the importance of flexibility and adaptability in business. Their story of surviving the COVID-19 pandemic by quickly adjusting to delivery services showed me how being open to change can help businesses not only survive but thrive during tough times. They also made me think about how external factors like natural disasters can impact a business and how important it is to have contingency plans in place. This was something I hadn’t considered before but it seems crucial to long term success.

The conversation with Hube Computer Store was a bit more brief but it left me with the idea that starting small is okay and you can grow over time. With just ₱200,000 and two employees Hube managed to expand to four branches which was inspiring. It was a reminder that with hard work, determination and a clear vision businesses can grow beyond what you initially imagine. Even though the owner was shy to talk about her leadership I could see that actions sometimes speak louder than words.

Interviewing the manager of Yuri’s Coffee Roaster gave me a deeper understanding of what it means to stay true to your product despite challenges. Cagayan de Oro has so many coffee shops and yet they found a way to stand out by staying consistent with the quality of their coffee. It made me realize that when competition is tough it’s not always about offering something new or different. Sometimes it's about being excellent at what you already do. I was impressed by their resilience especially given the tough market they’re in.

Lifeline Coffee Brewers taught me something I hadn’t considered before the risks of cutting corners. The owner emphasized that sticking with cheaper products can harm your reputation in the long run and that really stuck with me. It made me think about how businesses need to balance costs with quality and how investing in marketing can give a business the boost it needs once it’s stable. It was one of those moments that made me reflect on how important reputation is to a brand and how delicate it can be.

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Index Test:

I've got 75.44 in my index test and my highest rating is my resilience which has 95.0 while my trust got the lowest rate that reach 40.0 only. I think my resilience got the highest rating because I find ways to solve everything, cause' I believe that in a saying of "If there's a will, there's a way". On my trust side I don't usually trust immediately to everyone that I've just meet cause I see those person who gives 100% of their trust being abused so I will not let that happen to me, my trust may not be valuable to everyone but I don't trust that easily. Overall, I am very agree with the results of my Index test.

Personality Test:

When I take my personality test I got Architect (INTJ-A) personality with 56% in Energy, 71% in Mind, 72% in Nature, 57% in tactics, and 86% in Identity. According in my result Architects are imaginative and strategic thinkers also they have a plan for everything which reflects to my index test. I am very surprised of my identity result which has the highest rating in my traits, cause according to it I am very self-assured, even-tempered, and resistant to stress which is very exact of what I am, I can control my emotion well and I am agree with it. Upon continuing reading of my personality test result my role was "Analyst" it states here that we are known for our love in rationality. They highlight the phrase here "Thinkers, not robots" because of the trait that we have which is we rather use our mind in decisions over our heart but, in some cases if I am able to include what my heart says I try to fit my decision with my mind because not everytime our mind are correct we were just controlled with our desire without knowing we are doing things wrong. My strategy here is "Confident Individualism" it states here that we tend to trust ourselves more, we are proud of ourselves. According here "These types take pride in their skills for their own sake, not to impress others" which I agree because I am not hyped with the validation of others.