Thought Leadership Presentation
In collaboration with:
Mr. Edison Kho Ching, Co-founder, Active White Co.
By: Corporate National Group
Section 12
Julian Allan Arabe
Princess Gwynette Mata
Aeron Vinceet Banzon
Clarisse Sofia Rivera
Jerald De Guzman
Julian Louise Santos
Mark Jensen Gabriel
Submitted on: November 16, 2021
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Table of Contents
I. Overview /Name of the Business...........................................................................................................1
II. Company Address and Contact Details........................................................................................1
III. Date of Virtual or Online Interview............................................................................................2
IV. Resume of Person Interviewed...................................................................................................3
V. Questionnaire Template...........................................................................................................4-6
VI. Transcript of the Interview....................................................................................................7-15
VII. Photo Documentation..............................................................................................................16
VIII. Individual Reflection Paper/Personal Plan
Clarisse Sofia Rivera……………………………………………………….…17-18
Mark Jensen R. Gabriel…………………………………………………………..19
Aeron Vinceet Banzon………………………………………………………..….20
Julian Louise R. Santos…………………………………………………….…21-22
Princess Gwynette Mata…………………………………………………..…..23-24
Julian Allan Arabe…………………………………………………………..........25
Jerald De Guzman………………………………………………………….....26-27
IX. Acknowledgment………………………………………………………………………….....28
X. References............................................................................................................................29-30
XI. Appendices
Appendix A: Letter of Permit to the Interviewee…………………………………31
Appendix B: Approval Form……………………………………………………..32
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
I. Overview / Name of the Business
Active White is a cosmetics specialist company in the Philippines by the Ching Family that
markets different types of beauty products like Glutathione, Collagen, Skin Whitener and many
more. Currently, the company’s co-founder, Mr. Edison Kho Ching is the Business Development
Manager of the company. The Ching Family has been in business for a long period of time and
aims to continue to do so with the following generations.
Speaking of the company’s mission, Active White aims to enhance one’s natural beauty. It
is committed to make products that will surely improve your image and lifestyle with lighter toned
skin, they are here to provide ways for millions of men and women to feel better about themselves.
Moreover, to produce products that has a high level of quality over quantity. Making sure that all
the products and ingredients being used can produce vitamins and minerals that are safe for the
body.
While for the company’s vision, the brand envisions to be the leading provider of the most
comprehensive line of skin care products in the competitive skin whitening market. To become a
trustworthy brand and to continuously produce good quality products that would leave its
customers satisfied.
II. Company Address and Contact Details
Speaking of the company’s address and contact details, Active White Co. is located at the
Active White Health & Beauty Center in U-506 Prince Jun Condominium, #42 Timog Ave.
Quezon City. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 A.M – A.M to 8 P.M. You can also
contact them at Tel No: (02) 781-4169 or (0918) 415-6465.
Meanwhile, Mr. Ching’s office is located at the same building, and you may contact him
through his personal email: EdisonKChing@gmail.com or through his LinkedIn account,
linkedin.com/in/edisonching.
1
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
III. Date of Virtual or Online Interview
The actual interview happened last Nov. 1, 2021, at 2 p.m. But before that, the group waited
in the room for about 10 mins for Mr. Ching to prepare. While waiting, the group discussed on
how the flow of the interview will be. During the discussion, Mr. Julian Santos was the one who
volunteered to do the opening remarks. Next, Ms. Julian Arabe was assigned to start the Q&A
Portion, followed by Ms. Clarisse Rivera, Mr. Julian Santos, Mr. Marc Gabriel, Mr. Jerald De
Guzman, Ms. Gwynette Mata, and Mr. Aeron Banzon. Moreover, the group also planned to give
Mr. Ching a certificate of appreciation. And for the last part of the interview, Mr. Gabriel
volunteered to spearhead the photo documentation.
Few minutes later, Mr. Ching arrived at the meeting room and the interview had started.
Overall, the meeting lasted for 37 minutes which already included the planning phase. The whole
group enjoyed the whole session and was hoping to see Mr. Ching soon.
2
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
IV. Resume of Person Interviewed
3
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
V. Questionnaire Template
GROUP QUESTIONNAIRE
•
Engaging in business entails a lot of investments in terms of money, time, and sacrifices.
And despite of all these investments, still many have failed in their business ventures. Based
on your personal observation as a businessperson, it is a reality that not everyone is destined
to be a successful entrepreneur?
______AGREE
______AGREE with comments:
Comments here: _________________________________________________________
______DISAGREE
______DISAGREE with comments:
Comments here: _________________________________________________________
•
Do you do regular planning for your business?
______YES, I do regular planning for my business.
______NO, I don’t do regular planning for my business.
•
In our university, we have core values of Fortitude, Excellence or Uprightness, do you also
have certain values that follow and observe in your business operation?
______YES, I have, and these are: ______________________________________________
______NO, I do not have.
•
Were your efforts and sacrifices to make contributions to the organization worth
it? Yes or No?
______YES, my efforts and sacrifices to make contributions to the organization were worth it.
Added comments: __________________________________________________________
______NO, my efforts and sacrifices to make contribution to the organization were worth it.
Added comments: _________________________________________________________
•
Should the trends be the sole reason why someone should pursue business? Yes or No?
4
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
______YES, trends should entirely be the sole reason for why someone should pursue
business?
Added comments: ______________________________________________________
______NO, trends should not entirely be the sole reason for why someone should pursue
business.
Added comments: ______________________________________________________
•
Are you contented on how the business is going at present given that there is a pandemic that
we are experiencing right now?
______YES, I am contented on how the business is going.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
______NO, I am not contented on how the business is going.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
•
Did literatures and books have make a good impact on your skills as a leader? Yes or No?
______YES, literature and books have made a good impact on my skills as a leader.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
______NO, literature and books did not make a good impact on my skills as a leader.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
•
Are you always easily annoyed by an employee’s unethical behavior? Yes or No?
______YES, I am easily annoyed by an employee’s unethical behavior.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
______ NO, I am not easily annoyed by an employee’s unethical behavior.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
•
Do you agree that businesses should now use social media to increase brand awareness,
especially amidst pandemic? Yes or No?
_______YES, I do think that businesses should now use social media to increase brand
awareness.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
5
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
_______NO, I don’t think that businesses should now use social media to increase brand
awareness.
Added comments: _______________________________________________________
•
In a scale of 1-5, 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest, rate your overall satisfaction in
your line of work.
______5-I am very satisfied with my line of work.
______4-I am satisfied with my line of work.
______3-I am somewhat satisfied and dissatisfied with my line of work.
______2-I am dissatisfied with my line of work.
______1-I am very dissatisfied with my line of work.
6
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
VI. Transcript of the Interview
Interviewers
Interviewee
Interview Date
Julian Allan
Aeron Vinceet
Jerald
Mark Jensen
Princess Gwynette
Clarisse Sofia
Julian Louise
Edison Kho Ching
November 1, 2021
Transcript
JULIAN LOUISE: Good afternoon, Sir Ching! We are students from Far Eastern University,
and we thank you for your participation in our final requirement in one of our course subjects,
Leadership and Decision Making. Just a simple reminder, we prepared ten close-ended questions
for you to answer, and you may have additional comments if you want to. Also, we would like
to apologize if we happened to conduct this interview in the middle of All Saints Day. Thank
you for being generous with your time. You may also have a short introduction, Sir, if it’s fine
with you.
MR. CHING: Don’t worry it’s not a bother, Rica’s a good friend of mine so we help each other
out. So, introduction, my name is Edison Ching; address is in Quezon city, Muñoz area; and we
are in a skincare business and also in manufacturing. The brand that we own is Active White,
maybe you have seen that in SM or Watsons; age 41; civil status single; I studied in Los Angeles
for elementary and then high school was in Chiang Kai Shek College in Tondo and then for college
I started in UST, but I eventually finished with a masters in Sports Communications in Ca ’Foscari
in Venice, Italy back in 2007. Before we start, let me give you a brief background of what I’ve
been up to. In terms of working experience, I started with a printing press for maybe about 3 years
and when the group buying sites came out a few years ago we were also in the dance and I used to
7
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
run a sports news network which is covering local sports like PBA, UAAP, etc. and mostly, now
focusing on the dark side of the politics. So, we have a party-list group and were just waiting for
the Comelec to give us the go signal for us to do what those other people do a few years ago. So
that’s pretty much the quick intro I have for you guys and thanks for having me.
JULIAN LOUISE: Thank you for that short introduction and thank you for giving us the chance
to know a little background about you and your company. Moreover, we would also like to take
this opportunity to introduce ourselves so first, hi I am Julian.
JULIAN ALLAN: That’s very impressive! He’s Julian Santos (pertaining to the first speaker) and
I’m Julian Arabe.
MR. CHING: Oh, there are two Julians?
CLARISSE SOFIA: Yeah.
JERALD: Hi I’m Jerald De Guzman.
PRINCESS GWYNETTE: Hi, Good afternoon. I’m Gwynette Mata.
CLARISSE SOFIA: Oh yeah hi, my name is Rica Rivera.
MARK JENSEN: Hi, I’m Mark Gabriel.
AERON VINCEET: Good afternoon, I’m Aeron Banzon.
EDISON: Hi, Good afternoon, everyone.
JULIAN LOUISE: I think we may now start our question-and-answer portion. For our first
question, Ms. Arabe, you may now take the floor.
8
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
JULIAN ALLAN: Thank you for that Mr. Santos. Now for the first question Mr. Ching, Engaging
in business entails a lot of investments in terms of money, time, and sacrifices. And despite of all
these investments, still many have failed in their business ventures. Based on your personal
observation as a businessperson, it is a reality that not everyone is destined to be a successful
entrepreneur? Do you agree or disagree?
EDISON: Yes and No, well because first of all, when I was listening up to your question. The first
thing that you really have to do is define what is “successful” to you. Meaning how or what success
looks like to one person may look vastly different from what success is for another person. So, just
because when you say about people getting success and achieving whatever they want in
life, first you have to define what success means to you before anything else and that’s one of the
things we’ve learned going along the way and in terms of what you asked earlier about “if everyone
is destined to be a successful entrepreneur,” growing up we always say that it goes along the
questioning of it can be taught or it can be innate in somebody to have certain things. There are
definitely certain skills that can be taught but at the same time, good entrepreneurs can be made
but great entrepreneurs—those are born. You can be still be good, and there’s nothing wrong with
being a good entrepreneur. I mean if it reaches your goals and it gets you the happiness that you
are looking for, sure why not? But you know the greatness, not everybody needs to be the Elon
Musk or the Bill Gates of the world and it’s just a level of knowing what success means to you,
that should really guide you on your way to what you are looking for in life and base your decisions
on things like that.
JULIAN ALLAN: I see that’s very insightful, onto the next question, aside from your insights
and observations, do you do regular planning for your business? Yes or No?
MR. CHING: Yes definitely, it’s one of those things you have to have on a regular basis and
different types of planning for different parts of business. Going back to the skin care business that
we are in, like for example we have one, we do every couple of weeks. That’s when we have our
coordinators who are actually in-field they are the ones that go around and our eyes and ears on
the ground. How we do our planning is for every couple of weeks to perfectly straighten ends, and
when they come in the office for their salary. At the same time, it’s an opportunity for us to talk to
9
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
each other and for them to report what needs to be calibrated in the things that we do. For other
things like our manufacturing side of the business that’s maybe every 6 months, we come together
and discuss where we should go and do things. Another one for the executive part is every year,
we just talk on how we want to go about, how we see the next year going, and how we want to
approach things like obviously pre-pandemic things are pretty smooth but know that the pandemic
brought in a whole new set of challenges, it was a lot more frequent because you know it’s sort of
an emergency but it’s something that has to be regularly done.
CLARISSE SOFIA: I’ll take the floor now. In our university, we have core values of Fortitude,
Excellence and Uprightness, do you also have certain values that follow and observe in your
business operation?
EDISON: Yes, we also do that. What we really value in our company is a lot of things mostly
number one, ‘Integrity’ that we need to have for our work. Keep it clean, keep it simple and were
all very taken like in a business type approach. The other one would be ‘Care for each other.’ We
know that in a manufacturing business it’s just pretty much us, so the clients we talk to are very
few and they do multiple works so it’s taking care of each other so it’s a division of labor and there
are some that has a specific certain task to do. The way we designed the business is created as a
sort of well-oiled machine that everybody plays their part and when it’s time to get the job done,
it’s time to get the job done and when it’s time to clock out then just rest and relax. Everybody just
do their own thing, when we know the job is done, if it’s the time to rest then it’s fine to rest.
Lastly, peace among the workers and the staff because awhile back, very typical, when you deal
with group of people tensions will arise from time to time so we had issues before that were blew
up a lot bigger than we had. So, we made that a priority in our organization that we had to make
sure that those kinds of people are better off in our organization. We’re very conservative and
actually a very content company that were at a pace we actually like and enjoy. Were just here to
keep the peace and make some pretty good profit along the way.
CLARISSE SOFIA: Thank you for your answer. Were your efforts and sacrifices to make
contributions to the organization worth it? Yes or No?
10
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
MR. CHING: Yes and no, that’s the thing about business there’s going to be a lot of sacrifices
and some will make it and some won’t. In a way it’s like a basketball where not all of your shots
will go in. There will be small things that you are going to try and that’s okay, that’s what it’s all
about. The way I’m starving to really enter to do stuff, developing it called the “game theory” that
looking at business ended life as life of games in a good way. There are risks that you have to take
and some of them you will be rewarded and some of them you just have to learn from them and
are they worth it? A lot of time it’s worth taking the risk, you just have to calculate it. If it’s a big
risk or a small risk and just go all out. That’s the fact you are going to choose. Sacrifices, that’s
normal, that’s part of life, when you choose something to do, you’re definitely going to give up a
few things from here and there.
JULIAN LOUISE: So, for our next question, should the trends be the sole reason why someone
should pursue business? Yes or No?
EDISON: I wouldn’t say sole reason, but there’s nothing wrong with it being a big reason. The
reason I say that is for like us when we got in the skin whitening skin care stuff back in the day
around 2007, that was the trend that the industry boomed but beyond following the trend what we
like to think was one of the reasons that were still here is because we’ve had enough background
on how to do business correctly since it’s a family business they’ve had experience in so many
businesses even before I was born so we had a certain background in business that helped us to
succeed in that industry. In terms of following trends, most definitely but beyond the trends is your
system of business. how you going to make sure you that you can ensure the level of success that
you are looking for. Friends will come and go, there’s always going to be there, there’s going to
be a new one out every two weeks and something new, friend is fine but it’s about your business
system matter actually more.
JULIAN LOUISE: Thank you for that insightful answer, Sir. For the next question, are you
contented on how the business is going at present given that there’s a pandemic that we are
experiencing right now? Yes or no?
11
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
MR CHING: Actually, yes, we are. Surprisingly, for me anyway, the skin care business, it’s still
going even though we are in this pandemic. Actually, we have improved, plus we actually got the
new clients coming in so things have been a lot better than expected so we’re happy with that. Of
course, a lot of the we have to increase our prices with a lot of our raw materials increasing. That
will be a lot of waiting of course but there’s nothing really we could do with that and even though
we did increase the price of a lot of our items, the business still prosper and we’re like “okay,
great.” That is something we have to adjust to. Overall, definitely, we’re contented and satisfied
on how things are going.
JULIAN LOUISE: Thank you for your answer, Sir. And I’m glad to know that your business is
still booming despite of the pandemic.
MR. CHING: It’s a blessing that I have something right now.
JULIAN ALLAN: I was trying to say that since we’re in the middle of a pandemic, more people
have been focusing on “glowing up” because I’ve seen so many on social media like they’ve been
using. Aside from working out, aside from focusing on their health, they’ve been purchasing like
a few “beauty products” something like that. So, I think that’s one of the reasons why the beauty
industry or beauty business is booming still in the pandemic.
MR. CHING: Most definitely and our online sales like in Shopee and Lazada, that really boomed
also so those your insights are definitely correct. That’s what people are doing during the pandemic
so we’re blessed to be at the right place at the right time with the right business.
JULIAN ALLAN: Onto the next question, is Mr. Gabriel.
MARK JENSEN: For this question, did literatures and books have made a good impact on your
skills as a leader? Yes or no?
MR. CHING: Books? Most definitely yeah. That is one of the things you don’t really, you’re a
lot but reading and learning, continuous learning, is one of the most important things you need in
12
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
business. I took business in college but I learned a lot more after college and in during work to
help me manage the business better. In terms of what books, there’s a lot anything like books of
Tony Robbins. Those types of books were big help. Jon Spoelstra, he has a marketing book that
actually bought a bunch of copies before and gave them to friends back at the day which is really
good for marketing. So, in terms of impact on skills as a leader, highly recommended that anybody
business, continue their education to read and to gather as much information as you can because it
really is a big help. Get it any what you want. There are audio books for some people who aren’t
really readers. Fine, it’s just some information and figure out a way to apply it to your business in
the future. Is it good?
MARK JENSEN: It’s good. The next question will be asked by Mr. De Guzman.
JERALD: Good afternoon, Mr. Ching. My question is are you always or easily annoyed by an
employee’s unethical behavior? Yes or No?
MR. CHING: Usually, to the only extreme. As I mentioned earlier, we did have some issues like
that before. I wouldn’t say easily annoyed but it’s more of that’s not something we tolerate. Like
if we do here a few things, we talk to them right away as early as we can so that they’ll know that
these behaviors aren’t acceptable in the company, etc. When we do find out despite the warnings
that they continued with the said behavior, then that’s the time we tell them their work is set by
self. I am easily annoyed not so much but there is calling to a certain limit. We try to make it clear
as soon as possible or if not, then maybe it’s time for them to move to a different place. Yeah, we
prioritize the seamlessness of how we do things within the business.
JERALD: Thank you for that. The next one will be asked by Ms. Mata.
PRINCESS GWYNETTE: Good afternoon, Sir, the next question is do you agree that businesses
should now use social media to increase brand awareness, especially amidst pandemic? Yes or
No?
13
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
MR. CHING: Yeah, most definitely. I mean, you kids know better than I do. That everything is
online and on social media nowadays and yeah, I mean it’s a tool, mainly the personal relationships
will always be important there. As I mentioned that we are doing better in business and that’s
communicating with the suppliers and clients. Social media internet is a huge tool by also getting
humanity as part of the business. In terms of business, we are solving problems, we’re serving
customers and that’s a lot more about the human aspect. Internet and social media, those are tools
to get you do those things but mainly, it’s all about the business relationships that really matter.
PRINCESS GWYNETTE: Thank you for your insightful answer, Mr. Ching.
JULIAN ALLAN: Before we move on to our last question, I would like to ask another one that
is not a part of our questionnaire but I’m just curious. Do you believe that the majority of your
sales now are coming from online purchases?
MR. CHING: No, not yet but it’s a huge percentage. I would say because we’re so established
with our on-ground sales. Our products are sold nationwide from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao
so the distribution has been very, very strong. But the sales online are of good but not tripled yet.
So, numbers like that are satisfying.
JULIAN ALLAN: Okay po. Thank you, Sir. Now, Mr. Banzon, you may now have the floor.
MR. CHING: Thank you for asking that one question, Julian. That’s Good. Those are the kind of
questions good to talk about. Don’t be afraid to go offspring. That’s what business is about. So,
Kudos for asking like that.
AERON VINCEET: Last question, in a scale of 1-5, 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest,
rate your overall satisfaction in your line of work.
MR. CHING: In the spirit of where I am, politically now, I would say that in a scale of 1 to 5, I
give myself 4.2 because we’re satisfied, we’re okay with how things are going. Yes, I would focus
a little bit more on business but I feel like I’m glad because I’m like fish to fry and that is political
14
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
season and turning my attention towards that. I am not giving much a perfect rate ever and I would
suggest do not think “that is that” that gives you little too much contentment. Always try to do a
little bit better and that will help you where you really need to go. Hopefully, we’ve been discussing
in some small way, I can help you guys to reach your better future.
AERON VINCEET: Thank you.
MR. CHING: Alright, you’re welcome.
JULIAN LOUISE: So, for the next part of our interview, we would like to give you, Sir, a token
of appreciation. Let me read the content of this one. Far Eastern University, Institute of Accounts,
Business and Finance, School Year 2021 to 2022. Certificate of appreciation. This certificate is
awarded to Mr. Edison Ching. This certificate is awarded to Mr. Edison Ching on the 1st of
November in 2021 for his participation in the Final Requirement: Thought Leadership Presentation
in MGT1101 or Leadership and Decision Making. This serves as a proof of his competence and
excellence in sharing his knowledge, skills, and talents of being a leader in the business industry.
Signed by Julian Louise Santos, group representative.
MR. CHING: Thank you so much. Thank you so much. Happy to be part of this.
JULIAN ALLAN: We appreciate your time, Sir. Thank you so much. And to Ate Rica for your
effort.
MARK JENSEN: By the way, let’s stay for the photo opportunity. 1, 2, 3, smile. Another one, 1,
2, 3, smile. Okay.
MR. CHING: Thank you so much. Thank you everybody.
ALL INTERVIEWERS: Thank you so much, Sir.
15
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
VII. Photo Documentation
16
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
VIII. Individual Reflection Paper / Personal Plan
Clarisse Sofia Rivera
I’ve known Edison Ching for quite some time now, I met him through common interests
such as- trading and healthy discourse on medical marijuana. We both work for the same partylistMedical Cannabis 2022, where he is the 5th nominee and I’m the official paralegal. We are pushing
medical marijuana because our beloved family members have been deprived of the cure- my
grandmother with terminal cancer. We’ve passed bills into congress trying to pursue medical
marijuana. Since it’s stagnant- we decided to take it into our own hands- to run for the National
Elections. We’re also businessmen and entrepreneurs. Him in aesthetics, as that is his family
business, I in the food industry.
I decided who else better to interview, none other than him. In our interview it went like
this:
CLARISSE SOFIA
Thank you for your answer. Were your efforts and sacrifices to make contributions to the
organization worth it? Yes or No?
EDISON
Yes and no, that’s the thing about business there’s going to be a lot of sacrifices and some
will make it and some won’t. In a way it’s like a basketball where not all of your shots will go in.
There will be small things that you are going to try and that’s okay, that’s what it’s all about. The
way I’m starving to really enter to do stuff, developing it is called the “game theory” that looking
at business ended life as life of games in a good way. There are risks that you have to take and
some of them you will be rewarded and some of them you just have to learn from them and are
they worth it? A lot of time it’s worth taking the risk, you just have to calculate it. If it’s a big risk
or a small risk and just go all out. That’s the fact you are going to choose. Sacrifices, that’s normal,
that’s part of life, when you choose something to do, you’re definitely going to give up a few things
from here and there.
I feel like his answer is directed towards me as an entrepreneur. In all honesty, I almost
want to give up on entrepreneurship, as I feel this pandemic dawning upon me to give up. To some,
it may seem like a very generic way to motivate a friend but sometimes, it's all you need. Our
17
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
discussion with him sorts of recalibrated me with one of my dimmed-out passions in the midst of
the pandemic- business. I loved the food business, perhaps because due to the elections and work
with the partylist, I forgot there’s life beyond that.
It’s true that you will miss a few shots, but what matters is that you don't give up and keep
pushing yourself. I loved that I got to hang with him as a friend again, and not as a colleague. Now,
I went to his place on November 1, prior to visiting my family, as it’s on the way to Pampanga.
On my drive home I had time to reflect- I barely listened to the podcast and my road rage was
seemingly within reason.
In my reflection, Robert Greene’s the 48 Laws of Power- I was on law 23- Concentrate
Your Forces, to use that energy to be healthy and to pursue anything through directing your energy
and forces to your goal. Law 25, Recreate yourself; To be the master of yourself rather than letting
others define you. To other people, 48 laws may seem narcissistic. I truly believe it depends on
perspective and application. Edison’s answer truly struck me- to keep trying until you win. To
keep pushing, motivating yourself when the world and odds are against you.
18
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Mark Jensen R. Gabriel
In a world of business, I perceive it as a complex and difficult matter to handle most
especially if a person does not have any knowledge that pertains in running a business especially
without reading books. But as we have interviewed Mr. Edison Kho Ching, the board member and
owner of iWhite, my viewpoints on how the business is carried upon with the help of books is
finally changing into a positive one with significance.
Even before the interviewee has been interviewed, I already witnessed several
entrepreneurs and learned how the business is started and how the business is going. Moreover,
my knowledge became more because of what we have grasped during the interview with him. At
the moment of the interview, I was assigned to ask Mr. Ching a question if literatures and books
have made a good impact on his skills as a leader. In line to the one that I asked, he said that there
are numerous books to read that relates to being an entrepreneur and books pertaining to the
marketing in which he read and aided him a lot and he recommended these to his friends as well.
Some people are not fond of reading because for them, books do not make sense and they find it
hard to delve with it because some are easily distracted that results to lack of concentration and I
am one of those people. Honestly, I only read books when required or needed and I do not read
most of the time because I am not interested in reading books. On the other hand, there are times
that I finish a book when it really gets my scope of interest or something that I can relate with.
Based on my own observation and personal experience, another reason why people do not like
reading books because they do not have enough motivation or they are not urged to read and some
are just inadequate when it comes to reading skills. But then, I realized that book does not only
help people with their education but it is also a book that helps people to think critically and to be
wise in life and an example of this is helping people in business, marketing, and many more.
There is one quote saying, “Formal education will make you a living; self-education will
make you a fortune” (Rohn, n.d.). In reading this quote, education is important to everyone because
it is a right and a privilege but I believe that there are many doors of opportunities outside the four
corners of a classroom and educating yourself with the positive things even not with the
educational books will help people grow as themselves. These books about entrepreneurship and
marketing are very large tool for those who want to create and succeed in their respective dream
businesses. Putting interest in reading does not make less of yourself as a whole, yet, it is a matter
we call “chance” to improve and change yourself with the things you are passionate about.
19
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Aeron Vinceet Banzon
In the afternoon of November 1, 2021, we had our interview with Mr. Edison Ching. I was
a little nervous because this was my first time interviewing via virtual means. Honestly, before we
start, I walk, jump up and down, and shake my body to calm myself and stay focused. We started
the interview by introducing ourselves and starting to ask Mr. Edison Ching questions. I’m the last
person who asks a question, and this is my conversation with our interviewee:
"Last question Sir, in a scale of 1-5, 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest, rate your overall
satisfaction in your line of work."
"In the spirit of where I am, politically now, I would say that in a scale of 1 to 5, I give myself 4.2
because we’re satisfied, we’re okay with how things are going. Yes, I would focus a little bit more
on business but I feel like I’m glad because I’m like fish to fry and that is political
season and turning my attention towards that. I am not giving much a perfect rate ever and I
would suggest do not think "that is that" that gives you little too much contentment. Always try to
do a little bit better and that will help you where you really need to go. Hopefully, we’ve been
discussing in some small way, I can help you guys to reach your better future."
And as a result of his response, I realized that when we are in business, we should give
more than 100% in order to grow our business. The old saying "Rome wasn’t built in a day" applies
here. Just because you open a business doesn’t mean you’re going to immediately start making
money. It takes time to let people know who you are, so stay focused on achieving your short-term
goals. Always be on the lookout for methods to improve your company and make it stand out.
Recognize that you don't know everything and keep an open mind when it comes to fresh ideas
and approaches to your company. When it comes to producing money in business, consistency is
crucial. You must continue to do what is required to be successful on a daily basis. This will help
you form long-term positive habits that will help you make money.
20
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Julian Louise R. Santos
“Leadership: A Skill of the Bold”
Since I was a child, I've seen leadership as a skill that I've always wanted to hone. A skill
that I know will help me grow because it entails challenges and responsibilities. And having the
chance to interview Mr. Edison Kho Ching, the owner of Active White, I am thrilled to know more
about how leaders speak and act.
At first glance, I've seen Mr. Ching as a calm and entertaining person. He is someone I see
that has referent power with his subordinates. He has great interpersonal skills, which resonated in
his personality while answering the questions. He made sure that all of his answers were relatable,
meaningful, and had humor.
During the interview, I got the chance to ask him two questions. The first question is if
trends should be the sole reason for pursuing a business. His answer to this was that it shouldn't be
that way because you also need to have a system in the business. He emphasized that those who
thrive in the business industry have concrete plans and steps to follow in pursuing a certain goal.
While hearing his answer, I remembered a characteristic of a leader: being able to develop and not
just maintain. Also, from that, I've realized that leaders don't just settle on the bare minimum. They
also take the risk in developing systems even though there is uncertainty accompanied by it. This
is where challenging the status quo kicks in. In business, I've also learned that leaders are
courageous enough to uphold what the Greek Philosopher Heraclitus once said, "The only constant
thing in this world is change." And hence, leaders innovate.
Furthermore, when I asked him my second question about his contentment with how the
business is going knowing that there is a pandemic, he said he is indeed happy and satisfied with
his company's progress. Their earnings even improved. Also, he added that despite of the rise of
the prices of the raw materials, so does the number of their clients, so it's just a win-win situation.
Through this, I can infer that leaders are optimistic and are not easily swayed by the negativity of
the situation that they are in. They are inspired by it instead.
Lastly, I think the greatest thing that I've learned from him is to never stop learning. He
said that reading books will help us go far along the way. In his case, reading marketing books of
Tony Robbins and Joe Spoelstra impacted his skills as a leader. He recommends that we should
21
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
gather as much information as we can while we are still young because we won't regret it in the
end. From this, I've learned that most successful leaders also have the habit of reading. Reading is
a form of exercise for the mind, and it helps us boost our creativity. And if we continue to develop
our creativity, the possibilities are limitless. It will now depend on our actions.
To sum up, in this activity, I've learned that the characteristics of the leaders are what
separates them from just being mere faces in the crowd. They are exceptional, have ideal
characteristics, and thrive on conquering every challenge they might face. And with the interview
that we had with Mr. Ching, I became inspired to go outside of my comfort zone and be better.
Now, I decided to propel myself to the next level. Truly, leadership is a skill of the bold.
22
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Princess Gwynette Mata
An interview with Mr. Edison Kho Ching-owner of a skincare business. Seven students
asked a total of 10 questions. It is a detailed, valuable, and life learning interview about business.
Some answers are eye awakening and new to the ears. Also, some points are not the same as my
perspective, but I'm open to analyzing both statements.
Before, I thought you could call a business when it became successful without knowing
that failure is a part of it. I discovered that everyone could have their own business without actually
having the inborn skills. How? By reading books, seeking advice from professionals, planning,
and honing the critical skills needed. It's like you don't have to be perfect or successful when
starting a business. Everything begins from small until it becomes a huge hit. It influences my
thinking and understanding of the company. Patience, trust, integrity, connection, passion,
necessary knowledge, and abilities, ability to cope up, and flexibility-the things that I think are
significant. Furthermore, maintaining a positive mood/atmosphere impacts the process and product
of the business. It influences cooperation, activeness, communication, and engagement.
One thing that caught my attention was planning and reading. These are the reasons why a
business is booming. Inadequate information business plan, strategy, structure, location, market
access, lack of resources, innovation, and adaptability would lead to nothing. Plan before taking
action. It may seem unnecessary and unimportant, but it can be used as an emergency strategic
plan or needed. A plan includes everything we want to upgrade the business, possible problems,
and feasible solutions. Another was reading. Individuals think that having reasonable expenses to
build a business is enough for a company to stand, not knowing that knowledge is power. I realized
that when you see a lot or are an expert in a particular field, and you love what you do-success and
income will follow.
The effort, time, risks, and energy used are all worthy in everything we do. I recognized
that as long as we're taking action and making progress- it would all come back to all of the things
we sacrifice. Moreover, turning threats, weaknesses, and problems into an opportunity is a fantastic
insight. We see numerous establishments and institutions shut down due to pandemics, but others
take it as another chance online to create their identity and make sales.
I learned the things to keep in mind before and after starting a business. To summarize the
overall insights, we primarily need to think, plan, and gather all the necessary materials. It is a
23
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
must to have the knowledge, abilities, and appropriate attitude toward your business, co-workers,
and clients.
24
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Julian Allan Arabe
I was really invested in the interview as it is a rare opportunity to obtain knowledge from
a well credited business owner and leader. Mr. Ching’s expertise on his line of work and
educational background were impressive and inspiring, knowing that he has met with lots of
business minded professionals like him and has gained experience from different educational
institutions. This is highly relative to me especially that I am interested in establishing my own
business in the future as well.
There are 2 important points I learned in the interview. Mr. Ching said, “continuous
learning, is one of the most important things you need in business.” I agree with him that learning
never stops. One of the many things that can help you to developing into a successful leader is
to learn and be updated. Meaning to say, one has to be competent of his skills and knowledge.
Networking is one of the ways to receive knowledge. Working with and joining a circle where
your interests and goals to succeed are the same. The second thing I observed is, you must set
your goals. According to Dr. Emily Volk, “Goal setting allows your team to work towards
something and inspires team-work and innovation.” (Volk, 2019). As a leader, you should know
what you want for your organization. Learning how to set goals is crucial to achieving success.
It is also important to communicate and demonstrate your thoughts well, then make reasonable
plans. It is all in creating a good business system, together with sacrifice, hard work and smart
skills.
I can conclude that you cannot be a successful leader overnight. It is something you
choose to do and work on every day. Like Mr. Ching, it is all about the skills and setting an
excellent scheme. Let us stay inspired and disciplined in our journey towards becoming an
outstanding leader. A leader who chooses to be consistently educated, grounded, confident and
assured with his plans for success and at the same time, not forgetting to leave an influence to
his organization.
25
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Jerald De Guzman
Business is complex, many businesses fail because of their owners. But there is a
question that often knocks at my door of rationality and that is “What really is a success?” You
may be wondering why I asked such a question when the answer is so obvious, but know that
you have think of it, there is no exact and definite answer. Some might say it’s all about the
money, and some might say it’s about their passion and they are not wrong. We all have our
own definition of the word ‘success.’
I’ve always thought that leading a business is so difficult that it is not for everybody. It’s
either, you have it or you don’t. But that mentality has been destroyed by Mr. Ching, as he told
us that being a successful leader can be taught or innate but he also added that good leaders are
made, while those who are born with it—are great leaders. There is nothing wrong with being a
good leader, as long as you like what you are doing and you don’t disrupt anyone then you are
already successful and as Albert Schweitzer says “Success is not the key to happiness.
Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
Planning is a vital part in a company, as Benjamin Franklin says “If you fail to plan,
you are planning to fail.” A company with no plan is set to a direction that leads to bankruptcy.
Every successful business plan regularly. From its short, long, big or small projects, they
carefully plan as it concerns the whole business entity.
If there is one thing that I admire about Mr. Ching’s company, that would be their care
for their employees. Many companies give heavy workloads to their workers and on top of that
their salary is below minimum. But Mr. Ching’s none of that, working hours are absolute for
him. If there is work to be done, it needs to be done and if the work is already done then it’s fine
to rest.
I’ve learned that sacrifices are a must in a business, but success is still not guaranteed
even though you sacrifice a lot. It’s just a matter of calculating the risks and rewards of a certain
sacrifice. As the saying goes, “Success is not final, Failure is not fatal; it is the courage to
continue that counts.’’ Mr. Ching told us that sacrifices sometimes make it and sometimes
won’t but most of the time it pays off. He also told us that we should take risks since we are still
kids who have little to lose and even though we fail we can still learn from it and just take it as
a bad experience.
26
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
The Interview is really informative, I learned that starting or running a business is really
hard and complex for those who are not happy at what they are doing. Most are lost at what they
really want and end up going for the other’s meaning of success leaving them more lost at their
own meaning of success. Plans, Employees, Sacrifices are some of the things a business have
but are crucial to an entity. Mr. Ching rated himself a 4.2 out of 5 in terms of his satisfaction in
his line of work and that made me understand that he did not make 5 because he is not satisfied
with his work but he did that because he wants some room for improvement. Him being satisfied
in his work would only make his desire vanish, that’s why he never gives himself a perfect
grade. Desire is what keeps us going and also what keeps us humane.
27
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
IX. Acknowledgment
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Final Requirement progress and outcome were made possible by the direction and
support of numerous people. We feel fortunate to have received this as part of the completion of
our work. Each person involved in this initiative put in a lot of effort, and those efforts deserve to
be acknowledged.
First and foremost, we would like to thank and honor Almighty God for providing us with
the power and blessing that enabled us to complete the Final Requirement. We wouldn't have made
it this far without his blessing. Our group members, Julian Allan Arabe, Aeron Benzon, Jerald De
Guzman, Mark Jensen Gabriel, Princess Gwynette Mata, Clarisse Sofia Rivera, and Julian Louise
Santos, will not fulfill this Final Requirement without their efforts and cooperation. We always put
in our best effort to deliver high-quality work with full commitment and responsibility.
We appreciate and thank Mr. Edison Ching for granting us an opportunity to do the Final
Requirement through virtual interview and providing us with all the support and leadership, which
made us finish the project duly. We are indeed thankful to him for presenting excellent support
and guidance, despite having a busy schedule.
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to our Professor, Mr. Leonardo Cada,
for giving us such a golden opportunity to work in this Final Requirement on Leadership and
Decision-Making course. Mr. Leonardo Cada is our Mentor who has helped us a lot throughout
this project by providing important data and information. His valuable words and advice have truly
motivated us. The process of preparing this project in collaboration with our teacher is refreshing
to experience.
28
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
X. References
Alaili, A. (2020, November 20). Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key
to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. – Albert
Schweitzer. Retrieved from Entrepreneur Post:
https://www.entrepreneurpost.com/2020/11/20/success-is-not-the-key-tohappiness-happiness-is-the-key-to-success-if-you-love-what-you-are-doing-youwill-be-successful-albert-schweitzer/
Kellar, W. (2020, July 1). Retrieved from Human Investing:
https://www.humaninvesting.com/450-journal/if-you-fail-to-plan-you-areplanning-to-fail
King, L. (2019, April 4). Who Said Change is the Only Constant in Life? Medium.
https://medium.com/mindset-matters/who-said-the-only-constant-in-life-ischange-233fd9e27b87fail
Lowry, S., & PR, M. (2013, July 4). MEDIA MATTERS: FINEST HOUR 136, AUTUMN
2007. Retrieved from International Churchill Society:
https://winstonchurchill.org/publications/finest-hour/finest-hour-136/mediamatters/
Prive, T. (n.d.). Top 32 Quotes Every Entrepreneur Should Live By. Forbes. Retrieved
November
5,
2021,
from
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tanyaprive/2013/05/02/top-32-quotes-everyentrepreneur-should-live-by/?sh=30d674b819a9
Renjen, P. (n.d.). Deloitte BrandVoice: Creating Stigma-Free Work Cultures Is Key To
Tackling The Mental Health Crisis. Forbes. Retrieved November 5, 2021, from
https://www.forbes.com/sites/deloitte/2021/10/07/creating-stigma-free-workcultures-is key-to-tackling-the-mental-health-crisis/?sh=1c6fc65a71f
29
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Seabury, C. (2019). 9 Tips for Growing a Successful Business. Investopedia.
https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/08/make-money-in-business.asp
The Pillars of Goal Setting In Leadership. (2019, August 26). Thriveglobal.com.
https://thriveglobal.com/stories/the-pillars-of-goal-setting-in-leadership/
30
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
XI. Appendices
Appendix A
Letter of Permit to the Interviewee
Date: 10/25/21
To: Mr. Edison Kho Ching
Co-founder, Active White
Munoz, Quezon City
We, the national corporate group composed of seven students from BS Accountancy and
BSBA Financial Management in Far Eastern University, received your name from Clarisse Sofia
Rivera, one of our groupmates. We would be most grateful if we could meet you virtually for an
interview. The group will use the interview for our final requirement in our course subject,
Leadership and Decision making.
The interview will be held via MS teams meeting, and I hope you are available on the 30th
day of October. We have at least ten questions to ask, and it will probably take 30 minutes of your
time. We will appreciate your kindest consideration of our request.
In responding, you may leave a message to us using this email. Thank you so much, and we’re
looking forward to see you soon.
Sincerely,
Julian Allan Arabe
Princess Gwynette Mata
Aeron Vinceet Banzon
Clarisse Sofia Rivera
Jerald De Guzman
Julian Louise Santos
Mark Jensen Gabriel
31
Course Code:
MGT1101
Course Title:
Leadership and Decision Making
AY:
2021 - 2022
Term:
1st Semester
Appendix B
Approval Form
Leadership and Decision Making Approval Form
Group Member Names
1. Arabe, Julian Allan
2. Banzon, Aeron
3. De Guzman, Jerald
4. Gabriel, Mark Jensen
5. Mata, Gwynette
6. Rivera, Clarisse Sofia
7. Santos, Julian Louise
Section 12
Leader Name
Position
Edison Kho Ching.
Board Member/Owner.
Jonathan Mark Leung.
Submitted by: Julian Louise Santos
Owner.
October 29,2021
Organization/Business
iWhite
Brewman Coffee
Approved by: (SGD) Prof. Leonardo F. Cada Jr.
32