Madiskarte Moms Learn Best Practices from Founders of Potato Corner, Carmen’s Best and More in PLDT Home Biz Masterclass

Passion, innovation, and tech know-how.

These were just some of the things that Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) members learned from successful Filipino entrepreneurs in the masterclass powered by PLDT Home Biz.

With the goal of empowering mompreneurs and equipping them with a winning mindset to succeed in business, this one-day intensive masterclass program was divided into three sessions with topics ranging from Creating an Entrepreneurial Mindset to Product Innovation and Using AI and Social Media to promote their businesses.

Passion and confidence

Wanderskye’s Co-founder and CEO Bianca Larrañagashared that passion can propel one’s business in a way that money can’t. She emphasized the importance of identifying and pursuing one’s passion as the foundation of a successful entrepreneurial venture.

While it was hard to enter a market already saturated by brands catering to tourists, Wanderskye differentiated itself with unique and quality products. This opened the avenue to partner with national retailers such as Rustan’s, The Travel Club and ROX. It also opened stores in Boracay, Siargao and Bohol, as well as in Metro Manila malls and airports.

President and CEO of Rite Tea Jaypee Morales shared the same sentiment.. He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to identify problems in their own lives and develop innovative solutions to address them.

Despite the challenges and setbacks Rite Tea faced during its early stages, Jaypee said perseverance, resilience, and unwavering belief in one’s vision can help entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and achieve success.

How to get customers to do your marketing

One of the most challenging aspects of starting a business is creating an  identity that people will remember — and love. In hospitality, where the market is transient by nature, it’s essential to make a good first impression immediately or you lose your chance to make new customers.

That is why for Commune Café owner Rosario Juan, first and foremost, one needs a distinctive aesthetic and ambiance to attract customers and make them want to experience your product.  Second, never forget the human touch—from exceptional customer service that builds a strong relationship with patrons to the details of the physical store. Third, remember that customers are in tune with market trends—so should  mompreneurs be.

As an example, her own Commune Café has carved a unique identity that resonates with its target audience, developing a loyal customer base that spreads positive word-of-mouth.

Failure can lead to innovation

Carmen’s Best is in most grocery stores today but when it started in 2007 founder Francisco “Paco” Magsaysay was sending out his products on individual orders. Paco emphasized the importance of setting high standards and striving for perfection. By delivering exceptional quality, businesses can differentiate their products, build brand loyalty, and attract discerning customers.

Meanwhile, Potato Corner co-founder and Tokyo Tempura founder Jorge Wieneke found a niche in the market that brought one product outside the fast-food chains and into its own small spaces across 11 countries. Founded 25 years ago, Potato Corner, dubbed “The World’s Best Flavored Fries,” has become a top-of- mind entry point for budding entrepreneurs.

Jorge emphasized the importance of understanding consumer needs and preferences to identify underserved niches and untapped opportunities in the market. He advocated for a culture of experimentation and risk-taking, highlighting the value of failing fast and learning from mistakes to drive innovation.

Many entrepreneurs say that embracing failure is the first step to success. It sounds ironic, but it’s true, said Zarah Jane Juan, founder of Zarah Juan brand, known for unique Filipino bag designs using icons of everyday life.

AI and social media

Social media is a powerful platform to engage with audiences, build brand awareness and drive sales. Tiktok, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn can help mompreneurs reach an audience beyond the Philippines.

nRocket Inc. CEO Jay Jazmines said AI can be a game changer for one’s business if used wisely and strategically. Entrepreneur Fibo Lim of the Fibo Lim Group of Companies advised mompreneurs to use their social media content to connect with customers and to educate, entertain, and experience.

Drizzled Chicken owner Maine Fontanilla broke down how to use these platforms, such as TikTok to attract customers, build brand awareness, and encourage dine-ins; and Facebook for collecting online orders, showcasing flavors, and guiding the order process.

This masterclass is part of the PLDT Home Biz relaunch to introduce enhanced Home Biz plans with significantly faster speeds and a lot of exclusive benefits. In addition, PLDT Home is launching a dedicated Facebook community for existing and new subscribers. This online hub will provide access to exclusive masterclasses, personalized one-on-one coaching sessions, expert customer support, and a range of exclusive perks to help home-based businesses thrive.