The University of Batangas Batangas City Campus, together with Metro Batangas Business Club (MBBC), hosted an event that merged history with future-ready business strategies last April 24, 2026. The morning session focused on the foundations of law and heritage. Experts discussed legal precedents for small claims. They also explored the historical significance of the 1875 Carta General del Archipelago Filipino. These topics provided a strong cultural and legal anchor for the day.
As the afternoon session began, the focus shifted toward the future. This session aimed to help aspiring leaders turn their insights into successful businesses. Atty. Jesus V. Mayo, Chairman of the Board of Regents, delivered welcoming remarks to open the afternoon session of the summit.
The Inner Work of a Successful Business Leader
Mr. John Thomas Garcia, VP of Sales and Operations at Pontefino Estates and Secretary of MBBC, opened the session with an inspiring introduction. He then welcomed Mr. Marc Ranier O. Go from the Citimart Group of Companies. Mr. Go shared lessons from Citimart’s 40-year history. He argued that true business leadership requires a steady flow of innovation. To stay relevant, leaders must balance three roles: Vision, Strategy, and Operations.
Mr. Go introduced the “Entrepreneur First” framework, which prioritizes self-awareness and self-mastery. He used the Iceberg Model to show how unseen mental models drive our visible business results. Our education, family background, and personal experiences shape these models. He urged the audience to adjust their thinking constantly as the world changes around them.
To improve decision-making, leaders can use the “Ladder of Inference” to test their assumptions. Mr. Go also taught the “Ting” method of listening, which involves the ears, eyes, and heart. This deep connection helps leaders move into a zone of growth and find their Ikigai. He concluded with a reminder to work with all one’s heart, serving a higher purpose.
Strategies for Sustainable Business Growth
Dr. Erwin M. Lumanglas, Dean of the College of Business, Accountancy, and Hospitality Management, introduced the next segment. He emphasized the link between the classroom and the boardroom. Mr. Francisco “Paco” Magsaysay then shared his journey with Carmen’s Best ice cream. He demonstrated how to turn a problem into a premium brand. His dairy farm had too much milk, so he created a high-value product. This story shows how business leadership can transform a simple commodity into a market leader.
Paco’s brand, Carmen’s Best, began when his dairy farm faced a surplus of milk. He added value to this commodity by creating a high-quality, ultra-premium product. His strategy focused on niche markets where quality is more important than size. He famously told the crowd that if you cannot be the biggest, you must be the best.
This success came through bootstrapping and very disciplined growth. Paco warned the audience against expanding too quickly without a solid foundation. He also encouraged everyone to pursue work they truly enjoy. This passion sustains a leader through the difficult phases of building an enterprise. His story proved that building from your existing strengths is a winning move.
Turning Assets into Action
Atty. Roelito C. Garcia concluded the symposium. He summarized the key takeaways for all attendees. He reminded everyone that knowledge is our greatest asset. However, it only creates value when we put it into action. The event at the University of Batangas provided a clear roadmap for success. It proved that business leadership turns insights into a lasting legacy.
The journey from Knowledge to Enterprise requires more than just a good idea. It needs a change in mindset and a commitment to quality. The speakers provided the tools to navigate this path with confidence. Participants left the Juan Y. Javier Building ready to lead. They now have the skills to shape the future of the Batangas business landscape. This event marked a new chapter for innovation in the province.
