Sam “SV” Verzosa with the couple from Bongabong.
MANILA, Philippines — Lerma and Emerberto Bongabong, a senior couple known for their beautifully crafted macrame products (handicrafts), have recently experienced a heartwarming turn of events. After facing numerous challenges in their business, their story has taken an inspiring direction, thanks to the unexpected support from Sam “SV” Verzosa.
The Bongabong couple has always been hard-working. They began selling vegetables, both wholesale and retail, in 1979, continuing until 2007. However, in 2007, their vegetable business faced severe downturns, prompting them to shift focus to their farm, where they planted coffee, coconut, cacao, and durian.
In 2010, they returned home and began a new venture in macrame, creating intricate handicraft accessories. Macrame, similar to crocheting but with a unique style and technique, is easier to learn yet challenging to finish in a day. Despite their enthusiasm and skill, the Bongabongs found it difficult to sell their products due to their advancing age and weakening bodies.
Sam “SV” Verzosa visited the couple in Davao. Deeply moved by their story and impressed by their craftsmanship, SV took it upon himself to learn macrame and assist them in selling their products online.
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Although SV found making macrame difficult, he leveraged his expertise in sales. He introduced live selling, which resulted in an overwhelming response. In just a few minutes, a significant portion of the Bongabong’s macrame products were sold, bringing tears of joy to the couple.
To further support the Bongabong family, SV provided them with a rolling store filled with various accessory products and raw materials for their macrame creations.
Additionally, he supplied them with a grocery package, covered their maintenance needs, and funded the dialysis treatments for their son. SV also introduced Frontrow products to add to their business and awarded a scholarship to their youngest son, ensuring the family’s future stability.
“Malaking tulong ito sa amin [This will be a big help for us],” Tatay Emerberto expressed. “Pangmatagalang tulong ang binigay ni Sam Verzosa. Hindi lang ito para sa aming magasawa pati na din sa mga anak namin.”
(Sam Verzosa provided long-term assistance. This is not only for us, as a couple, but also for our children.)