“Pahalagahan ang oras. Gawin ang lahat ng makakaya habang bata pa dahil hindi na maibabalik ang oras.”
(“Value the time. Do your best while you’re young because time can’t be turned back.”)
This belief guides Arlene Ubiadas Passion, a 29-year-old mother of two, loving partner, and dedicated entrepreneur from Pakil, Laguna.
Arlene’s journey began with humble beginnings. As a scholar and student assistant, she managed with only ₱100 daily. She worked hard to complete her vocational course. In 2017, encouraged by her neighbors, she joined TSPI and took her first loan of ₱10,000 to start a handicraft business with her husband.
She began by making paper mache event decorations from chipboard and cornstarch paste. Gradually, Arlene grew her small venture into a business supplying both export companies and local clients. Her products have reached the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries, while also supporting events and businesses in the Philippines.
By embracing digital tools, Arlene expanded her market through Facebook, Google, TikTok, and email marketing. She also uses mobile banking and delivery apps to improve her operations. These changes helped her increase her income by nearly 1900%. Today, she provides jobs for 30 to 50 workers in her community.
Her entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there. Arlene started a chipboard scrap buy-and-sell business, using recyclable materials while promoting eco-friendly practices. She also ventured into a piggery business and invested in vehicles to support her growing operations.
More than just running a business, Arlene values people and the environment. She ensures her workers have microinsurance, rewards them with bonuses and celebrations, and follows eco-friendly practices by using recyclable materials in her products.
From a young woman with big dreams to a successful entrepreneur creating jobs and opportunities for others, Arlene Ubiadas Passion shows that when you value time and seize opportunities, you can change not only your own life but also the lives of many others.
