Disrupt Davao Podcast

View Details

Welcome to another insightful episode of Disrupt Davao, where we feature the stories of trailblazers shaping Davao’s business landscape.

In today’s episode, we have Jokoy Tabbada, a well-known restaurateur and co-founder behind popular establishments such as K Steaks Unlimited, Cocina Ilocana, Jim Hopper’s Pizza, and Black Plate Bistro. Jokoy's story is one of perseverance, creativity, and finding success despite not having a formal background in business.

In This Episode:

Jokoy's Unexpected Journey into the Restaurant Industry

Jokoy shares his unique background as a nursing graduate who transitioned into the restaurant world. He discusses how his first venture—a siopao business—sparked his passion for the food industry, eventually leading him to establish K Steaks Unlimited, Cocina Ilocana, and more. Learn how he navigated the initial challenges of starting a business with no prior experience.

Building and Managing Multiple Restaurant Brands

Jokoy dives deep into the complexities of managing multiple restaurant brands, emphasizing the importance of consistency across locations and the power of standardization. He reflects on why he chose to diversify his restaurant concepts instead of replicating the same brand. Jokoy also shares how he utilizes innovative marketing strategies and technology to streamline operations and improve customer experiences.

Adapting and Innovating in a Competitive Market

From transitioning K Steaks Unlimited from a buffet model to à la carte, to managing operating costs, Jokoy discusses how he has adapted his business model over the years to meet customer expectations. He also touches on his future plans, particularly the expansion of K Steaks Unlimited, and how technology, like AI and analytics, will play a role in the restaurant’s continued growth.

Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs

Jokoy offers valuable advice to those looking to enter the restaurant industry, stressing the importance of listening to both customer feedback and market trends. He encourages new business owners to set realistic financial goals and to find a deeper purpose in their work beyond just making profits. Jokoy's emphasis on being present and motivating staff reflects his hands-on approach to leadership.

Supporting Jokoy Tabbada's Ventures

Jokoy’s journey is a testament to perseverance and learning by doing. For those eager to experience his culinary creations, you can visit his popular restaurants in Davao City and follow his restaurants online to stay updated on their latest offerings and upcoming expansions.

K Steaks Unlimited - Matina

Google Maps
Facebook
IG

Cocina Ilocana

Google Maps
Facebook
IG

Jim Hopper’s Pizza

Google Maps
Facebook

Black Plate Bistro

Google Maps
Facebook

Calves Steakside

Google Maps
Facebook
IG

Jokoy's interview is packed with insights into building a restaurant empire from the ground up, managing multiple brands, and staying ahead in a competitive industry. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice for both foodies and aspiring restaurateurs.

– – –

Don’t forget to follow Disrupt Davao on ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, and ⁠Facebook⁠ to stay updated on all our episodes and behind-the-scenes content. Tune in and get inspired as we uncover more stories of disruption and success from Davao City.

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we uncover the stories of Davao’s most innovative and influential entrepreneurs. Today, we’re thrilled to host Marc Alexander Lim, the dynamic founder of Limitless Fitness & Martial Arts. From being a decorated national athlete to pioneering a fitness revolution in Davao, Marc has transformed his passion for martial arts into a thriving business that enhances both physical and community well-being.

In This Episode:

Marc’s Martial Arts Journey:

Discover how Marc’s childhood fascination with martial arts films and UFC fights led him to establish Limitless Fitness & Martial Arts. Hear about his transition from a young enthusiast to a SEA Games gold medalist and what motivated him to open his own gym.

Challenges of Starting and Scaling a Gym:

Marc shares the initial hurdles of opening a gym, from overcoming overcrowding due to unexpected demand to balancing his roles as a student, athlete, and entrepreneur. Learn how he navigated these challenges and strategically expanded his facilities.

Philosophy and Impact of Coaching:

Explore Marc’s coaching philosophy which centers on making martial arts accessible to everyone, not just elite competitors. Understand how his approach to training and community building at Limitless has shaped the lives of his clients.

Adapting to the Pandemic:

Marc discusses how Limitless Fitness adapted to the challenges of the pandemic, from innovating with ‘Circuit Ball’ home fitness equipment to maintaining community spirit during gym closures.

Vision for the Future:

Looking forward, Marc shares his plans for expanding Limitless Fitness & Martial Arts, including new grassroots programming and creating a more welcoming gym environment with additions like a coffee corner.

Advice for Aspiring Athletes and Entrepreneurs:

Gain valuable insights as Marc offers advice to young athletes and budding entrepreneurs on pursuing their passions and navigating the complexities of starting and running a successful business.

Engaging with Limitless Fitness:

For listeners interested in martial arts or looking to join the Limitless community, Marc provides details on how to get involved and benefit from the programs offered at Limitless Fitness & Martial Arts.

Marc's story is a powerful testament to the impact of dedication, innovation, and community engagement in the fitness industry. His journey from the martial arts mat to the entrepreneurial arena offers inspiring lessons for all.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation with Marc Alexander Lim on Disrupt Davao. Continue the conversation online by connecting with Marc on Facebook or Instagram.

Limitless Fitness & Martial Arts:
Google Maps - G.L. Building E Quirino Ave, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur
Facebook
Instagram

– – –

Don’t forget to follow Disrupt Davao on Spotify, Instagram, and Facebook to stay updated on all our episodes and behind-the-scenes content. Tune in and get inspired as we uncover more stories of disruption and success from Davao City.

View Details

Welcome to another exciting episode of Disrupt Davao, where we dive deep into the stories of Davao's pioneering entrepreneurs. Today, we're featuring John Irwin Añonuevo, co-owner of Annipie Bakery Cafe, a cherished local favorite and a must-visit cinnamon destination in Davao. Annipie has evolved from a humble convenience store into the go-to spot for both tourists seeking delicious pasalubong and locals in search of delectable treats.

In This Episode:

Annipie's Beginnings:
John shares the origin story of Annipie, which began over two decades ago as a convenience store. Facing market challenges, the business pivoted in 2007, transitioning to a bakery café concept. With guidance from mentors, Annipie rebranded, adopting a new logo that creatively resembles a cinnamon roll.

Challenges and Expansion:
Learn about Annipie's innovative approach to expansion through franchising and how they strategically choose locations for new branches. John details the unique challenges faced during the pandemic, including opening a distinctive branch within a durian farm and adapting operations by implementing a split workforce to ensure continuous service.

Pandemic Innovations:
Despite the challenges, Annipie managed to expand, including launching a new branch at an airport location. John discusses how the pandemic influenced their product offerings and operational strategies to meet the specific needs of each branch.

Future Aspirations and Advice:
Looking forward, John outlines plans for national expansion across Visayas and Luzon, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation in commissary operations and technology. He shares invaluable advice for new food businesses: the significance of trusting advisors and building strong relationships.

John's Personal Touch:
Ending on a personal note, John shares his favorite product from Annipie—the classic cinnamon roll with cream cheese, a testament to their commitment to quality and tradition.

Supporting Annipie:
For those eager to try Annipie's famous cinnamon rolls or visit one of their innovative branches below:

SM City Davao - https://g.co/kgs/x2AvDrk
General Malvar St - https://g.co/kgs/pyGqKe8
Airport - https://g.co/kgs/LX8QRom
Annipie @ The Farm - https://g.co/kgs/qM5QEUh
Maa - The Shell - https://g.co/kgs/u5DdGPm
Quimpo Blvd - https://g.co/kgs/r43UmXm
SM Lanang - https://g.co/kgs/VomL9MV
Roxas - https://g.co/kgs/YsK9ga2

Follow them online:

Facebook
Instagram

John's journey with Annipie is a compelling story of adaptability, innovation, and growth in the food business. His insights are a valuable resource for anyone interested in the dynamics of evolving a traditional business in challenging times.

– – –

View Details

Today, we're not only celebrating a remarkable milestone—our 20th episode—but we're also excited to introduce our first couple guest on the show, Trisha Zamora and Justin Laserna. These two are the pioneering spirits behind iScreamery, a venture that has quickly become a favorite in Davao for its unique and delightful treats.

Join us as we delve deep into their entrepreneurial journey, exploring how their shared passion for creating extraordinary dessert experiences has driven them to innovate and disrupt the local food scene.

From their initial dream to the realities of running a business, this episode promises to unpack a story of partnership and entrepreneurial spirit.

In This Episode:

Trisha and Justin’s Backgrounds: Learn how Trisha's entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured within a family of business owners and how Justin’s experience in agriculture seamlessly transitioned into the food industry. Discover their shared passions that led to the creation of iScreamery.
Starting Challenges: Hear about the initial difficulties Trisha and Justin faced, from supply chain issues to establishing a solid business foundation, and how they turned these challenges into opportunities for growth.
Co-Founding Dynamics: Gain insights into their roles within the business and how they balance their professional and personal lives to maintain both a strong relationship and a thriving business.
Franchising iScreamery: Follow their journey into franchising, from their decision-making process to attending workshops and securing bank partnerships.
Engaging the Youth: Discover how iScreamery captivates younger audiences with innovative flavors and experiences, balancing traditional elements with modern marketing strategies.
Entrepreneurial Advice: Trisha shares her strategies for managing a demanding medical school schedule alongside her business commitments, offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs on balancing multiple responsibilities.

Trisha and Justin extend an invitation to experience iScreamery firsthand:

1st Branch: Circumferential Road, Marfori Heights, Davao City, Philippines Google Maps Link
2nd Branch: Victoria Plaza, NCCC Carpark Compound, J.P. Laurel Ave, Poblacion District, Davao City, Philippines Google Maps Link
3rd Branch: Gen. Douglas MacArthur Hwy, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur, Philippines
Google Maps Link

Follow and tag them on social media:

Facebook
Instagram
TikTok

Franchising Opportunities: Interested in being part of the iScreamery family? Find out how you can join their growing network through franchising here.

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we dive into the lives of those shaping our city’s future through innovation and entrepreneurship. Today, we are honored to host Jason Li, President of New Davao Famous Restaurant, a beloved culinary landmark in Davao for over 40 years.

In This Episode:

Jason’s Entrepreneurial Journey: Discover Jason’s pathway from his early career aspirations to taking the helm of New Davao Famous Restaurant, including the transition into managing a long-standing family business.
Rebranding and Evolution: Hear about the strategic rebranding efforts undertaken to modernize New Davao Famous without sacrificing its cherished traditional recipes, and the crucial role Jason’s wife played in this process.
Family Dynamics in Business: Explore the complexities and rewards of working within a family-owned business, the challenges of navigating interpersonal dynamics, and the importance of clear communication.
Pandemic Resilience: Learn how New Davao Famous adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic, from integrating third-party delivery services to ensuring the well-being of their employees during these uncertain times.
Expanding with Integrity: Dive into the logistical and operational shifts required when expanding from one location to multiple branches, including the implementation of robust systems to maintain quality and consistency.
Keys to Entrepreneurial Success: Gain insights from Jason on the essential qualities for entrepreneurial success such as resilience, systems thinking, and the continuous pursuit of self-mastery.
Future of Davao Famous: Jason shares his future plans for New Davao Famous, including new product introductions aimed at aligning with current customer preferences, and his ongoing commitment to innovation.
Support New Davao Famous: Find out how you can support Jason and the New Davao Famous Restaurant by visiting their multiple locations, trying their new offerings, and staying connected through their social media platforms.

Jason Li's insights not only highlight the legacy and ongoing evolution of New Davao Famous but also reflect a broader narrative of adaptation and growth in the face of both opportunity and challenge. Join us as we uncover the depth of his experience and the forward-looking vision that continues to drive the success of this iconic establishment.

Don’t forget to follow the New Davao Famous on social media to catch all their updates and special offerings.

New Davao Famous Restaurant

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newdavaofamous
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newdavaofamous

ChinoyChow:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinoychowph
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chinoychow

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we dive into the journeys of those who are shaping our community through innovation and determination. Today, we are excited to have Louise Tan, the creative force behind Louis Mireille Parfum, who has carved a unique niche in the fragrance industry right here in Davao.

In This Episode:

Louise's Entrepreneurial Journey: Discover how Louise transitioned from selling pre-loved clothes to founding her own perfume brand, Louis Mireille Parfum, blending her passion for fragrance with entrepreneurial spirit.
Challenges in the Perfume Industry: Hear about the hurdles Louise faced as she entered the competitive world of perfumery and how she overcame them by focusing on quality, local craftsmanship, and unique marketing strategies.
Balancing Dual Careers: Explore how Louise manages her demanding role in banking alongside running her growing perfume business, demonstrating the power of passion and hard work in achieving professional balance.
Inspirational Insights: Learn from Louise’s dedication and the personal philosophy inspired by icons like Cher, emphasizing independence and self-reliance in both life and business.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Gain invaluable advice from Louise on how to start small and grow steadily, especially for women who are balancing multiple roles and seeking to enter the entrepreneurial world.
Future Aspirations for Louise Mireille Parfum: Dive into Louise’s vision for expanding her perfume brand, including new product lines and potentially reaching more markets outside Davao.
Supporting Louis Mireille Parfum: Find out how you can support Louise’s endeavors by visiting her social media pages and where to purchase her exquisite perfumes to experience the essence of Davao in a bottle.

Louise Tan’s journey from a simple idea to a thriving enterprise is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Davao. Join us as we uncover how she blends art, science, and business acumen to create fragrances that capture the heart and soul of her customers.

Don’t forget to follow Louis Mireille Parfum on social media to stay updated on their latest products and special offers.

Instagram
Lazada
Facebook

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we explore the stories of pioneers reshaping our community's culinary landscape. Today, we're thrilled to host Chef Jeramie Go, the innovative mind behind Pilgrim and The Grateful Bread, two establishments that are redefining the food scene in Davao by blending international techniques with local flavors.

In This Episode:

Jeramie's Culinary Adventure: Learn about Chef Jeramie Go's transition from the bustling food scene of Toronto to the tranquil surroundings of Davao, where he has brought a slice of global cuisine to local diners.
Challenges and Innovations: Hear how Chef Jeramie has navigated the challenges of introducing a unique menu at Pilgrim and adapting to customer preferences at The Grateful Bread, all while maintaining a commitment to culinary excellence and innovation.
Empowering the Team: Discover Jeramie's approach to hiring and team building, focusing on attitude over experience, which fosters a positive work environment and ensures high-quality service and dishes.
Expansion and Future Plans: Dive into Chef Jeramie's future aspirations for his culinary ventures, including potential expansions and new concept introductions that promise to keep the dining experience exciting and new.
Advice for Aspiring Culinary Entrepreneurs: Gain valuable insights as Chef Jeramie shares advice for those looking to break into the culinary industry, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience and a continuous learning mindset.
Supporting Pilgrim and The Grateful Bread: Find out how you can support Chef Jeramie's endeavors by visiting the restaurants, engaging with them online, and spreading the word about their innovative dishes and unique dining experiences.

Chef Jeramie Go's passion for food and his innovative approach to cuisine have not only brought new flavors to Davao but, have also set a benchmark for culinary excellence in the region. Join us as we delve into his inspiring journey, the challenges he's overcome, and the exciting future he envisions for his culinary ventures.

Follow Pilgrim and Grateful Bread on social media to stay updated on their latest offerings and special events.

Pilgrim Restaurant - Facebook, Instagram
Location: Baganihan, Marilog, Davao (Google Maps)

Grateful Bread - Facebook, Instagram
Location: Door 1, 1020 Mabini Place, Mabini Street, corner Elpidio Quirino Ave, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur (Google Maps)

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, the podcast that dives deep into the stories of our city's most innovative entrepreneurs. Today, we are especially honored to welcome John Galt Emberga, the culinary visionary behind Little Italy Pizzeria.

Situated in the heart of Davao City, Little Italy Pizzeria is a cozy, pet-friendly establishment celebrated for its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine. From hand-tossed pizzas to meticulously crafted pasta dishes, John’s passion for genuine Italian flavors and techniques shines through in every aspect of his restaurant.

Join us as we explore how John's unique blend of culinary expertise and entrepreneurial spirit has helped to shape the local dining scene and why Little Italy has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.

In This Episode:

John's Culinary Roots: Discover how John's background in food technology and a transformative trip to Italy ignited his passion for authentic Italian cuisine, leading to the creation of Little Italy Pizzeria.
Challenges of the Startup: Hear how John navigated the initial challenges of opening Little Italy, focusing on keeping costs low while sourcing the best ingredients during the challenging times of the pandemic.
Menu Evolution: Explore the evolution of Little Italy's menu, which started with classic Italian dishes and has since embraced local ingredients to enhance authenticity without losing its roots.
Operational Efficiency: Delve into John's strategies for maintaining operational efficiency, including his hands-on approach to staff training and his introduction of fresh, in-house-made pasta to streamline kitchen operations.
Expanding Horizons: John discusses his plans for expanding seating capacity and introducing innovative concepts like a mobile pizza kitchen to cater to pizza parties and other events.
Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs: Gain valuable insights as John shares advice for those aspiring to enter the food industry, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptation.
Supporting Little Italy Pizzeria: Learn how you can support Little Italy by sharing their story with friends and enjoying a meal that reflects John's dedication to quality and creativity.

John's dedication to authentic Italian cuisine and his innovative approach to restaurant management are not just transforming Little Italy Pizzeria but also enhancing the culinary landscape of Davao. Join us as we explore the delicious details of his entrepreneurial journey.

Follow Little Italy Pizzeria on Facebook or Instagram or best to visit in person to experience the authentic flavors and inviting atmosphere that John and his team have passionately crafted.

Address: Focal Point, Eco W Dr, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur

– – –

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we dive into the stories of the city's most innovative entrepreneurs. Today, we're joined by Jasper Ngo, the visionary behind Yoh Froz, a brand that has transformed Davao's approach to frozen yogurt by focusing on health and flavor.

Jasper’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the entrepreneurial world. His journey from a health-focused upbringing to becoming a successful business owner illustrates the impact of embracing one’s true calling. Join us as we uncover the layers of dedication behind Yoh Froz and the lessons Jasper has learned along the way.

In This Episode:

Jasper's Entrepreneurial Journey: Learn about Jasper’s early days, how he was inspired by his family’s focus on health, and his travels that led to the founding of Yoh Froz. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial path and led to the creation of a health-conscious brand.
Overcoming Challenges: Hear how Jasper faced and overcame significant challenges in opening the first Yoh Froz branch. Explore his strategies for managing growth, navigating pandemic restrictions, and his approach to customer feedback that has been key to his success.
Innovation and Growth: Delve into Jasper’s commitment to innovation within the food industry. Understand how his desire to continuously improve has allowed Yoh Froz to thrive in a competitive market and expand to five branches.
Expansion and Future Aspirations: Jasper discusses his plans to diversify Yoh Froz’s offerings beyond yogurt while maintaining the brand’s core identity. Learn about his cautious yet ambitious plans for growth that ensure quality and customer satisfaction.
Entrepreneurial Wisdom: Gain valuable insights from Jasper on what it takes to succeed in the food industry. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, Jasper’s advice on education, objectivity, and customer engagement is invaluable.
Supporting Yoh Froz: Find out how you can support Yoh Froz and enjoy their delicious offerings. Jasper invites everyone to visit their branches and see firsthand why Yoh Froz has become a beloved part of Davao’s food scene.

Follow Yoh Froz on Facebook and Instagram or visit their locations all over Davao City to experience their unique flavors and healthy options.

Torres Branch: Davao Autoville Center, F. Torres St, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur
Tulip Branch: The Compound, Tulip Dr, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur
Abreeza Branch: Abreeza Mall, J.P. Laurel Ave, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur
Lanang Branch: Phoenix Arcade, Lanang, Davao City, Davao del Sur
Rogen Inn Branch : Rogen Inn, Mt. Apo St, corner Lopez Jaena St
Soon to open branch: SM Ecoland

– – –

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we spotlight the changemakers reshaping our community. Today, we're honored to host Captain Edo Lobenia, the founder of Second Chance Philippines, an initiative that significantly impacts the lives of former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) by providing them with opportunities for a fresh start.

In This Episode:

Edo's Vision for Change: Learn about Edo's journey from serving as a Jail Senior Inspector to pioneering Second Chance Philippines. Discover the inspirations and pivotal moments that led him to address the challenges faced by former inmates seeking reintegration into society.
Building Bridges: Hear how Edo overcame significant obstacles to partner with local businesses willing to employ former PDLs. Explore the success stories of companies like SurePlus and Jargon Construction and Supply, which have played crucial roles in providing new opportunities for these individuals.
Agricultural and Automotive Initiatives: Delve into how Second Chance Philippines expanded to include the Second Chance Agri Farm and Auto Care center. These initiatives not only provide jobs but also skills training, helping former PDLs gain sustainable employment and a sense of community.
Community Impact and Expansion: Edo discusses the broader impact of his work, from changing public perceptions to fostering a supportive environment for social reintegration. Learn about the plans to broaden the scope of Second Chance Philippines through more comprehensive community involvement and legislative support.
Advice for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs: Gain valuable insights from Edo on starting and sustaining social initiatives. Whether you're looking to launch a small project or a large-scale operation, Edo shares advice on how passion, persistence, and community support can drive success.
Supporting Second Chance Philippines: Find out how you can contribute to the mission of Second Chance Philippines. Edo shares how listeners can get involved, from participating in community events like "Run for Second Chances" to engaging with their initiatives online.

Edo's dedication to giving former inmates a second chance is not just transforming lives but is also building a more compassionate society. Join us as we explore the power of redemption and the community's role in fostering significant social change.

Follow Second Chance Philippines on Facebook or send them an email to inquire how you can support their initiatives at secondchancephilipppines@gmail.com.

Don't forget to follow Disrupt Davao on Spotify, Instagram, and Facebook to stay updated on all our episodes and behind-the-scenes content. Tune in and get inspired as we uncover more stories of disruption and success from Davao City.

View Details

Welcome to another episode of Disrupt Davao, where we dive into the stories of the city's most innovative entrepreneurs. Today, we're joined by Kim Fabular, the founder of Glass House Coffee, a unique cafe that has transformed Davao's coffee scene with its storybook ambiance and commitment to local coffee culture.

In This Episode:

Kim's Coffee Calling: Discover how Kim transitioned from philosophy student to coffee aficionado and what inspired her to create Glass House Coffee. Learn about her journey from finding the perfect location to embracing the challenges that helped shape the cafe's distinctive storybook ambiance.
Expanding Horizons: Hear about Glass House's expansion to Aeon Towers and how Kim maintained the brand's unique thematic elements while adapting to an urban setting. Understand the challenges and triumphs of managing two different cafe environments.
Cultural Influence: Explore how Glass House Coffee is shaping Davao's coffee culture and inspiring small cafe owners. Kim discusses the importance of creating a niche space that offers more than just coffee but a complete experience.
Local Love: Kim shares her commitment to supporting local coffee producers from Mount Apo and how this decision enhances Glass House's offerings. Learn about the impact of local sourcing on both the quality of the coffee and the community.
Educational Endeavors: Delve into the workshops Kim offers, from introductory classes on specialty coffee to advanced brewing techniques. These workshops not only spread knowledge but also foster a community of coffee enthusiasts.
Advice from the Expert: Kim provides invaluable advice for aspiring cafe owners and coffee professionals. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and alignment with personal values in creating a successful business.

Kim's story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the entrepreneurial world. Her journey from philosophy student to renowned coffee professional illustrates the impact of embracing one's true calling. Join us as we uncover the layers of dedication behind Glass House Coffee and the lessons Kim has brewed along the way.

Follow Kim on:

Instagram
Tiktok

Follow Glass House Coffee

Instagram

View Details

In this episode of the Disrupt Davao Podcast, we dive into the tech world with Peng Sumarago, the visionary founder of Mugna Technologies Inc., and the driving force behind the DEVCON Davao Chapter. Join us as Peng shares her journey from a tech enthusiast to a leader shaping the future of technology in Davao City and beyond.

Conversation Highlights:

Peng's unique path into the tech industry and the birth of Mugna Technologies Inc.
Building Mugna Technologies: Overcoming challenges and leveraging community support to establish a tech-focused company.
Leading DEVCON Davao: Peng's vision for nurturing tech talent and fostering innovation within the community.
Mindanao Summit 2024: Aiming to transform Mindanao into a tech hub through collaboration and showcasing local innovations.
The importance of mentorship, community, and staying engaged with initiatives like DEVCON and the Mindanao Summit.

Join us as Peng Sumarago gives us a glimpse into the tech landscape of Davao City, her role in fostering a supportive tech community, and her efforts to position Mindanao as a key player in the Philippine tech industry.

For more information on:

Mugna Technologies Inc.

https://www.mugna.tech/

DEVCON Davao

https://devcon.ph/davao/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/devcondavao/
Email: devcondvo@gmail.com

DEVCON Mindanao Summit 2024:

https://summit.devcon.ph/
Sign up now and be the first to know: https://summit.devcon.ph/

Connect with Peng:

Facebook: Peng Sumarago
Instagram: Peng Sumarago

Mugna Technologies Inc. and DEVCON Davao are at the forefront of Davao City's tech revolution, and Peng Sumarago is leading the charge. Don't miss out on this insightful episode of the Disrupt Davao Podcast!

Remember to follow us on Spotify and our social media channels to stay updated with more inspiring stories from Davao's entrepreneurial scene.

View Details

Coffee lovers rejoice! In this episode of Disrupt Davao Podcast, we’ll be talking to Ton Bernardino, owner of the Bloom Coffee and Start-Up space. The Bloom Coffee & Start-Up Space is one of the few establishments to maintain operations despite the extensive regulations imposed by the local government.

Today, we’ll be learning about how Ton started as an entrepreneur, the struggles of maintaining a business amidst the pandemic, and the choices responsible for getting him to where he is today.

Conversation Highlights:

Programmer to coffee aficionado
Building the business around professional consumers
Effects of the pandemic and paradigm shift
Delivery operations vs. In-house serving
Taking advantage of new trends
Employee retention struggles
Changing service hours due to curfew regulations
Target market adjustment
Ton’s advice to entrepreneurs/finding meaning

Join me as we learn about Bloom Coffee and Start-up Space in this episode of Disrupt Davao!

For more info, please visit their page:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebloomcoffee/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebloomcoffee/

Bloom Coffee & Start-up Space is located at Corner Walnut St. and Ecoland Drive, Phase 7, Davao City.

View Details

In this episode of Disrupt Davao Podcast, I'm excited to talk to Doctor Angeli V. Guadalupe M.D., M.S.C, the co-founder of SurePlus Davao that started as a project at first and then launched as a business just last March of 2020.

Other SurePlus co-founders are Jason Occidental and Leizl Salera.

Others are quick to question their reasoning behind launching a business in this pandemic, but you'll be impressed and inspired after knowing their purpose and the vision they have for our city.

Sureplus is a social enterprise (won YSEALI Seeds) that aims to tackle the problem of food wastes & undernutrition in Davao City by reselling repurposing & reallocating surplus food in order to minimize food wastage & hunger in Davao City.

Through their website and upcoming app, excess food from local farmers, groceries, and restaurants are sold at prices lower than usual. Donations for food subsidies are also gathered then they are directed to specified individuals, families, and charities. Part of our proceeds is also given to our partner charities.

Listen in and learn more about Doc Gel and Sureplus. We discussed:

What were some of the challenges they've encountered as a new business?
What are the changes they've made that will stay after this pandemic?
As social entrepreneurs, where do they get their support from?
What do they identify as Surplus food?
As she's a doctor and entrepreneur, how does she balance and manage her time well?
Great entrepreneurial advice and experience shared especially to those looking to start a social enterprise

How can you best support Sureplus?

Shop at their website for surplus foods from farmers and their other store partners here: https://www.sureplus.net/
Shop at their physical stores at the YMCA Cup of Grace - Kape ug Kaagi: Art & Start-up Hub - YMCA's cafe is located in front of Sutherland, near Bangko Sentral.
Like and share their Facebook page to your friends.

View Details

In this episode of Disrupt Davao podcast, I’m really excited to talk to Naprey Almario, popularly known as one of the Pinoy Big Brother housemates, an advocate for Persons with Disabilities, a blogger, our very own Influencer here in Davao, and an entrepreneur.

He owns:

Almario Budget Travel & Tours
HUB International Education
Cebuana Lhuillier Deca
Laundry Vuitton Deca Tacunan

We talked about:

What's the new normal for him and his family?
How hard his travel agency business got hit because of the Covid-19 Pandemic
How did he communicate this change to his clients considering he's the middle agent between the airlines, hotels, and his clients
How he uses his greatest strength to get his entrepreneurial life started
His inspiration behind starting a travel agency
How he opened 2 new businesses despite this pandemic and his thinking around it - Cebuana Lhuillier Deca and Laundry Vuitton Deca Tacunan
His advice to our fellow entrepreneurs out there

Let's show our love and support to Naprey by liking his businesses on Facebook:

Laundy Vuitton Deca
Cebuana Lhuillier Tacunan
Almario Travel & Tours
Hub International

View Details

To start her new online kitchen concept, Chef Garet needed to take a small step back, redeploy her resources, and closed her brick-and-mortar restaurant to create Chef Garet and is now happier, healthy, and more successful.

These are the stories we love here at Disrupt Davao podcast.

We discussed:

How she started and her love for food and cooking?
Opening and closing her first venture - Ninety Ninety Bar
The struggles in the food industry
Opening an online kitchen - Chef Garet
Advantages and Disadvantages of having a physical restore vs online kitchen
The rewards of being a great leader or employer
Her top Davao restaurants
Her support system especially during this pandemic
Lessons she learned in this journey

Please like her page: https://www.facebook.com/chefgaret/

View Details

To start off this second season, we have one disruptor and a successful entrepreneur who brought Bacolod Chicken Inasal in Davao. A businessman for 50 years till today, Insurance Man for 34 years, Pastor, veteran toastmaster, owner of BC Chicken House, Bernard Guirgen.

We discussed:

When and How BC Chicken House started?
How he braved through the tail end of the Asian Economic Crisis by opening BC Chicken House
How Davao accepted Bacolod-style chicken
Setting his family’s expectations after opening a new business
How Sir Bernie view this pandemic or crisis that we are in now
How he continues to serve the Davaoeños despite the losses
How BC Chicken House became the first Drive-Thru Dine-in Restaurant in Davao City
The advantage of having an open-air space
Closing BC Chicken Pequeño branch

Operating Hours:

Monday to Sunday

Toril Branch just before Gaisano Mall 10:30am to 8:00pm
Quimpo Branch 10:30am to 9:00pm

You can also avail of their Bacolod Chicken Inasal via Food Panda.

View Details

Very interesting discussion about the pandemic and Chef Patrick's positive approach. There is a lot of stigmas around the pandemic. One of the reasons why we want to get Chef Patrick on is because there are a lot of stories of people and businesses struggling and understandably so, but his approach to the pandemic through servicing our community has been one of the stories that we have loved.

Chef Patrick Co is our city's celebrity chef and mastermind of Davao restaurants, Fat Cow and Asian Cow, both by the way, landed on the list of Philippine Tatler’s T. Dining Guide as Best Restaurants in the country for 2020.

We talked about:

How he got started and his love for food/cooking
Why the name Fat Cow?
His experience as a restaurant owner during the onset of the pandemic in March/April
Some of the changes he made to keep running as a business
The challenges he encountered as a restaurant owner ie supplies, raw materials, employees, logistics, etc.
What's his favorite food
Advice or insights he'd like to share with other restaurants owners in the city during these unpredictable times

Links:

Order Fat Cow and Asian Cow menu online and have it delivered to your doorsteps - https://thefatcowgroup.com/
- Asian Cow Staples
- Bread
- Cooked Steak
- Desserts
- Fat Cow Staples
- Frozen Goods
- Party Trays
- Samgyup at Home
- Sets
Fat Cow on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theFatCowDvo/
Asian Cow on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/asiancow

View Details

In this episode, we have the creator and lead of BGS Davao (Biggest Garage Sale Davao), Marj Alawi-Bulahan. Her work in the last two years focused on connecting, engaging people, and building communities. She works closely with local creatives who supported the initiative that created the Biggest #GarageSale Davao events.

Biggest #GarageSale Davao is run by an all-volunteer community of creatives committed to inspiring and educating individuals and communities on reuse, recycle, repurpose, and upcycle lifestyle gearing towards #ZeroWasteDavao.

BGS events were designed to create a culture that embraces sustainable practices at the community level. And local creatives committed to inspiring a more sustainable lifestyle with creative solutions.

Marj and I talk about:

Her life before becoming a community builder
Our city's waste management
What is Biggest Garage Sale Davao - events and its processes
What does it mean to have a Zero Waste Lifestyle in the Philippines?
Creatives getting involved in teaching creative solutions in upcycling, recycling our things or wastes
Some of the challenges they encountered because of the pandemic
Developing tech that creates a space for people to connect and engage in a marketplace of events. Events that anyone can host and helps anyone to find the nearest neighbor who sells things that can be reused, repurposed, recycled, or upcycled.
Advice for community leaders and entrepreneurs

Links:

Website: http://www.biggest-garage-sale.com/
BGS Events FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/biggestgaragesaledavao
Davao's First Online Garage Sale - Nov 9 - 15 - https://www.facebook.com/events/395300518263783
- Register: http://bit.ly/garage-sale-davao

View Details

I am very excited to have Jessica Madrazo on Disrupt Davao podcast, aka Digital Davaoeña. She's a digital marketing veteran and one of the virtual assistant pioneers in Davao City.

She's the founder and Operations Director of Coffeebot, a Davao-based digital marketing agency that helps businesses locally and from across the globe grow through social media marketing, search engine optimization, web development, strategic lead generation, and customer support.

And I find comfort in knowing that we're part of the same industry and I look forward to hearing her story and experience during these times.

We discussed:

The changes Coffeebot has to go through as a business during this Pandemic
The challenges in transitioning to home-based as a creative team
Virtual Assistant Industry: Then and Now, Local vs Foreign Clients
Seeing more and more businesses adapting to online systems
Marketing your businesses online - hiring an agency to do it for you VS doing it yourself in-house
What is Digital Davaoeña

Links:

Coffeebot Solutions
Digital Davaoeña
Linkedin
Upcoming FREE events: Mindanao Goes Global
- Nov 4 - for professionals wanting to learn how to work online
- Nov 11 - for businesses wanting to learn how to market online - TBA

View Details

In this episode, I have the owner and founder of Rez Language Institute in Davao City, a test preparation center for IELTS, OET, TOEFL, PTE, and TOEIC. These are English standardized tests for visa applications.

Rez is also an active member of Toastmasters International for over 10 years. Toastmasters is a nonprofit educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of promoting communication, public speaking, and leadership.

Rez and her business, along with others in the education industry were directly affected because of the COVID19 Pandemic. Listen in as we talk about her experience, her transition, and her plan of getting back in the game.

If I don't adapt, I'll be left behind. - Rez Gaid

We discussed:

Her experience during the onset of the pandemic
How she underwent DABDA: 5 Stages of Coping - Denial · Anger · Bargaining · Depression · Acceptance
Her experience in letting go of her physical office, closing it down, and moving back home with her parents
How she embraced technology and learning new skills that will be relevant in the future
Her personal transition (weight loss) and the new things she's doing now
The self-defeating thoughts and how to overcome them
Being prudent in our expenses and giving up a comfortable lifestyle in times of crisis,
Paying taxes and what's due on time
How support systems are important most especially during these times
And so much more!

Links:

Rez Language Institute Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/RezStudy/
Rez Language Institute Contact Number - 09212077343

View Details

A rising tide lifts all boats.

With the exciting news of Davao City being named the "Cacao Capital of the Philippines", I am excited to have one of the founders of Cacao Culture on the show - Shiela Reyes-Lao.

Cacao Culture Farms is a social enterprise that seeks to help cacao farmers and women in our community by developing and promoting cacao-based products and encouraging entrepreneurs to use high quality, locally and ethically sourced cacao products from the Philippines. Cacao Culture Farms' cacao products are proudly locally grown, harvested, and processed in Davao City.

Sheila and I talked about:

Transferring from Manila to Davao City - Why Davao?
How Cacao Culture as a business, dealt with the pandemic
How badly did this pandemic affect them?
Customers changing their shopping methods
How their online presence helped them during these times
The overwhelming support for local entrepreneurs
The adjustments they did because of the pandemic - processes, platforms, logistics, etc.
Embracing technology in these times
One piece of advice for other entrepreneurs during these times
Re-opening of Cacao City physical store

Links:

Cacao Culture Farms - your one-stop shop for all cacao needs
YouTube Channel
Instagram
Shoppee
Lazada
Shiela Reyes-Lao Instagram
Cacao City - a cooperative of different cacao producers and stakeholders in Davao City such as Malagos, Cacao de Davao, & Rosario's Chocolates.

About

Kenneth and Shiela Reyes-Lao were tech-entrepreneurs based in Manila. They ran a tech startup company funded by Globe Telecoms under Kickstart Ventures in 2013. They decided to move to Davao City in 2016 seeking a new pace and lifestyle away from the busy corporate and technology startup scene. Looking for opportunities, they found themselves attending agricultural seminars hosted by local organizations. They did not have any experience in agriculture but fell madly in love with Cacao and the idea that they can grow their own chocolate. They jumped into the opportunity and never looked back.

View Details

On this first episode of Disrupt Davao Podcast, we will be discussing:

Our own experience of pivoting in this crisis as a BPO company in Davao City
Staying positive in times of crisis
Quote of the day

Disrupt Davao Podcast: Recent Episodes

Regina Evangelista