Changing Gears

Pots are molded when heat is applied. Similarly, people become who they are because of the challenges they faced in life.

Emmanuel Cantos, a father of three, has his share of life challenges. As a jeepney driver, his income did not suffice his family’s needs. He then decided that he must change gears.

Coming from a family that specializes in producing pots, he started his own pottery business. This became his edge as he is already knowledgeable about how its operations. He is aware of the people he must get in touch with, the best places to distribute the goods, and most importantly, the best way to make the pots.

At the start of their business, he and his wife were the only ones producing the pots. As his business grew, he hired more people who can assist him.

He considers two partners who contributed to the success of his business. The first one is his wife, who acted as his companion and supporter throughout his journey. While he is the one to shape and mold the pots, his wife designs them.

His second important partner is CARD MRI Rizal Bank, Inc., a member-institution of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) with a goal of assisting socioeconomically challenged families in the Philippines through financial, non-financial, and community development services. Emmanuel obtained loans from CARD RBI, which he used as additional funding for his pottery business. Both Emmanuel and his wife are from CARD RBI Pampanga branch, Sto. Tomas unit. They have been clients of CARD RBI since 2017 and 2012, respectively.

Having access to CARD RBI products and services enabled the couple to expand their business even further. Their production has significantly increased. His pots are being distributed to different parts of the Philippines, including Benguet, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Subic, Bataan, Batangas, Laguna, and Cavite.

They have also reaped the fruits of their labor as they have eventually purchased the land they used to rent for their business. They have also acquired a truck that is used for delivery.

“Hard work and perseverance matter, being an owner doesn’t mean your job is just to oversee. You also need to work your way to the top and create your own future,” he then concluded.