Cebu's Butch Carungay wins Asia Jewelry Design Gold - Planters ...

cover storyif there were no sales for a year,” Amadaremarks. “Olongapo was a dead town atthat time. We were the only ones sellingappliances and jewelry who stayed. Withdetermination, we were able to recovergradually,” says Victor. “Determination andsacrifice,” adds Amada. “We succeededthrough prayers. We went to masseveryday.” It was not the first time that theGutierrezes faced the threat of financial ruin.Their house and warehouse were gutted byfire twice—first in 1975 and then in 1982.They had a full inventory of appliancesand jewelry at both times. Because of theirgood relationship with suppliers, Amadasays they were able to replenish their stockon credit. Their suppliers told them: “Paywhen you have money.”Doing things right “It is important topay suppliers on time,” says Amada. Shenever borrowed money that she couldnot pay. She would tell her children: “Livewithin your means.” The Gutierrezes alsomaintained a good reputation with theircustomers. “We had the confidence of thepeople,” Victor said. “They knew they couldtrust the Ocampos as storeowners.” “Serviceis the key,” adds Amada. “We are friendlywith the customers. Siyempre inaalagaannamin sila. There are 10 of us servingthem.” They introduced their children tothe business at an early age. They askedthem to help at the stores during summervacation. Later on, they sent their daughters,after graduating from college, to studyat the Gemological Institute of America(GIA) where they learned how to appraiseand select gems. Both Victor and Amadabelieve that success in business requiresworking hard, patience and commitment.“You have to climb slowly. If you go uptoo fast, you’ll fall hard when you fall,” saysAmada. “‘Yun ang sabi ng tatay ko. Welearned to stand on our own two feet withencouragement from my Dad.” “You haveto be patient,” agrees Victor. “Dedication isneeded. At first, I was the only one drivingus everywhere—from Olongapo to Manila,to Divisoria and back.” He drove a pickupAmada and Victor Ocampovol. 2 issue 3 2007 / 17