10 Positive Values of a Filipino Entrepreneur

1. Pakikipagkapwa tao

"Pakikipagkapwa tao" is a Filipino value that emphasizes the importance of relating to others as
equals, treating them with respect, and showing concern for their well-being. It is a way of living
and interacting with others that are characterized by empathy, cooperation, and a sense of
community.

One example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of pakikipagkapwa tao is Illac
Diaz, the founder of the non-profit organization MyShelter Foundation. Diaz is known for his
innovative approach to social entrepreneurship, which focuses on addressing pressing societal
issues such as poverty, housing, and environmental sustainability. Through his work, Diaz has
demonstrated a deep commitment to serving others and creating a more equitable and sustainable
world.

2. Bahala na

"Bahala na" is a Filipino value that is often translated as "come what may" or "leave it to fate." It
reflects a sense of optimism, resilience, and faith in the universe or a higher power to guide one's
path. While it may seem like a passive attitude, it can also be seen as a form of courage and
confidence in one's ability to adapt and overcome challenges.

One example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of "bahala na" is Dado Banatao,
a technology entrepreneur and engineer who is often referred to as the "Father of the PC Chip."
Banatao grew up in poverty in the Philippines but was able to overcome significant obstacles to
pursue his passion for engineering. Throughout his career, he has taken bold risks and pursued
ambitious projects, including co-founding several successful technology companies. Despite the
challenges he faced along the way, Banatao remained optimistic and persevered through his faith
in himself and his vision. His contributions to the field of technology have had a significant
impact and continue to inspire entrepreneurs in the Philippines and beyond.

3. Pakikipagsapalaran

"Pakikipagsapalaran" is a Filipino value that is often translated as "the spirit of daring" or

"daring to take a chance." It reflects a sense of boldness, courage, and willingness to take risks in
pursuit of one's goals. While it may seem similar to the "bahala na" mindset, which emphasizes
leaving things to fate, "pakikipagsapalaran" suggests a more active and intentional approach to
risk-taking.

One example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of "pakikipagsapalaran" is Tony
Tan Caktiong, the founder of Jollibee Foods Corporation. Tan Caktiong started his career by
selling ice cream from a small family-owned store in Manila. Despite facing significant
competition from established fast-food chains, he decided to take a chance and launch his own
fast-food concept, Jollibee. With a focus on serving Filipino-style fast food, Jollibee quickly
gained popularity and has since become a global brand with more than 1,300 stores in over 30
countries. Tan Caktiong's boldness and willingness to take risks have been instrumental in
Jollibee's success, and his story continues to inspire entrepreneurs in the Philippines and beyond.

4. Gaya-gaya

"Gaya-gaya" is a Filipino value that is often translated as "imitation" or "copying." It reflects a

belief in the value of learning from and emulating successful models, whether in business or
other areas of life. While the idea of imitation may seem negative in some contexts, in Filipino
culture, "gaya-gaya" is viewed as a positive value that encourages entrepreneurs to seek out and
replicate successful strategies and practices.

One example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of "gaya-gaya" is Joey
Concepcion, the founder of the Go Negosyo advocacy group. Concepcion is known for his work
in promoting entrepreneurship in the Philippines and has been instrumental in connecting
aspiring entrepreneurs with successful mentors and role models. Through Go Negosyo,
Concepcion has encouraged entrepreneurs to learn from successful models and has created
platforms for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. His efforts have helped to foster a more
supportive and collaborative entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Philippines.

5. Utang na loob, hiya, awa, bayanihan

First, utang na loob means acknowledging the contributions of others and being grateful for their
support, whether it's from customers, employees, or other stakeholders. It also means being
willing to pay it forward and help others in the future. Second, hiya means being mindful of how
their actions and decisions may affect their reputation and the reputation of their business. It also
means being humble and showing respect to others, even in difficult situations. Third, awa
means being aware of the impact of their business on the wider community and taking steps to
give back and make a positive difference. It also means being empathetic and understanding
towards customers and employees. Lastly, bayanihan means collaborating with others and
building strong partnerships that benefit all parties involved. It also means being willing to lend a
helping hand to others in the community, whether it's through charitable giving or volunteering.

An example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies these values is Socorro Ramos, the founder
of National Bookstore. Ramos started her business with a small investment and grew it into a
successful chain of bookstores that has become an institution in the Philippines. Throughout her
career, Ramos has demonstrated a deep commitment to her employees, customers, and the wider
community. She has prioritized fair labor practices, such as providing her employees with health
benefits and retirement plans and has given back to the community through charitable donations
and disaster relief efforts. Ramos's success as an entrepreneur is a testament to the power of these
positive values in Filipino culture.

6. Kasipagan

Kasipagan is a Filipino value that is often translated as "diligence" or "hard work." It reflects a
belief in the importance of putting in sustained effort toward achieving one's goals. For Filipino
entrepreneurs, kasipagan means being dedicated and committed to their work, and putting in the
necessary time and effort to build a successful business. Entrepreneurs who embody the value of
kasipagan demonstrate a strong work ethic and a willingness to put in long hours to achieve their
goals. They are persistent and determined and are not easily discouraged by setbacks or
challenges. They are also resourceful and can adapt to changing circumstances and find creative
solutions to problems.

An example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of kasipagan is Tony Tan
Caktiong, the founder of Jollibee Foods Corporation. Caktiong started his business with a small
ice cream parlor in the Philippines and worked hard to grow it into a global fast-food empire. He
demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to quality, personally overseeing the
development of new menu items and ensuring that every dish met his high standards. Caktiong's
dedication and hard work paid off, and Jollibee is now one of the largest and most successful
fast-food chains in the world.

7. Pagtitipid

Pagtitipid is a Filipino value that is often translated as "frugality" or "thriftiness." It reflects a

belief in the importance of being economical and prudent with resources, whether it's money,
time, or materials. For Filipino entrepreneurs, pagtitipid means being mindful of expenses and
managing resources responsibly and sustainably. Entrepreneurs who embody the value of
pagtitipid are careful and thoughtful in their spending decisions and seek to minimize waste and
inefficiency in their business operations. They are also resourceful and can find creative ways to
achieve their goals without overspending.

An example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of pagtitipid is Dado Banatao, a
technology entrepreneur who is known for his work in developing the first single-chip graphical
user interface accelerator. Banatao grew up in a poor family in the Philippines and learned the
value of frugality at a young age. When he moved to the United States to pursue his education
and career, he continued to live a modest lifestyle and was careful with his expenses. In his
business ventures, Banatao applied his value of pagtitipid by focusing on developing innovative
technologies that were efficient and cost-effective.

8. Pagtitiis

Pagtitiis is a Filipino value that is often translated as "patience" or "perseverance." It reflects a

belief in the importance of enduring difficulties and challenges with fortitude and resilience. For
Filipino entrepreneurs, pagtitiis means being persistent and resilient in the face of adversity, and
not giving up on their goals despite setbacks or obstacles. Entrepreneurs who embody the value
of pagtitiis can withstand the challenges and difficulties of building a business and can bounce
back from failures and setbacks. They are also able to maintain a positive attitude and remain
focused on their goals, even in the face of adversity.

An example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of pagtitiis is Manny Villar, a
businessman who started as a street vendor selling seafood. Villar faced numerous challenges
and setbacks throughout his career, including financial difficulties, political opposition, and a
difficult real estate market. However, he persisted in his efforts to build a successful business,
and eventually became one of the wealthiest individuals in the Philippines.

9. Pagtitimpi

Pagtitimpi is a Filipino value that is often translated as "restraint" or "self-control." It reflects a

belief in the importance of exercising self-discipline and moderation in one's actions and
behavior. For Filipino entrepreneurs, pagtitimpi means being able to control one's impulses and
emotions and making decisions that are rational and grounded in reason. Entrepreneurs who
embody the value of pagtitimpi can maintain their composure and make level-headed decisions,
even in high-pressure situations. They are also able to control their spending and other business-
related behaviors and are not prone to reckless or impulsive actions.

An example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of pagtitimpi is John Gokongwei
Jr., the founder of JG Summit Holdings, one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines.
Gokongwei Jr. started his business career at a young age after his father passed away and he was
forced to take over the family business. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks
throughout his career, he maintained a steady and focused approach to business and was known
for his rational and deliberate decision-making.

10. Katapatan

Katapatan is a Filipino value that is often translated as "loyalty" or "faithfulness." It reflects a

belief in the importance of being true to one's word and honoring one's commitments and
obligations. For Filipino entrepreneurs, katapatan means being loyal to one's employees,
customers, and business partners, and maintaining integrity in all business dealings.
Entrepreneurs who embody the value of katapatan are known for their honesty, reliability, and
trustworthiness. They are committed to building long-term relationships with their customers and
business partners and are willing to go above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction.

An example of a Filipino entrepreneur who embodies the value of katapatan is Tony Tan
Caktiong, the founder of Jollibee Foods Corporation, one of the largest and most successful fast-
food chains in the Philippines. Tan Caktiong is known for his unwavering commitment to
customer satisfaction, and his loyalty to his employees and business partners. Tan Caktiong's
success is a testament to the power of katapatan in entrepreneurship. By being true to his word
and maintaining integrity in all business dealings, he was able to build a successful business
empire that had a significant impact on the Philippine economy. His story serves as an
inspiration to other entrepreneurs who may be tempted to prioritize.