Fourth video interview in the ‘Flashes of Life & Roots’ series: featuring Filipino entrepreneur and Economy of Communion ‘pioneer’ Tita Puangco
The interviews born from the Flashes of Life & Roots project are back: we have decided to interview a series of entrepreneurs ‘pioneers of the EoC’ to collect the ‘precious pearls’ contained in the experiences of those people who, in different parts of the world and in different cultural contexts, have responded in a radical way to a common vocation: that of giving life -with their lives- to the Economy of Communion.
The stories of the pioneers are fruits of the same tree, nourished by the same roots.... Getting to know theirstories allows us to savor how different expressions of the same life can be, with different forms but a common aroma. The intent of this interview series is therefore to nurture and encourage those who, in the present and future, feel called to put the Economy of Communion into practice with their lives. That is to say, fruits that become seeds to generate new life in its many expressions.
The fourth protagonist of our interview series is Tita Puangco, Filipina entrepreneur and Economy of Communion pioneer, who shared with us her extraordinary professional and personal journey. Originally a journalist and media worker, Tita worked in large manufacturing and banking companies before discovering the economy of communion. This discovery led her to leave her role as vice-president in a major bank in the Philippines to found an organisational development consultancy and teach at the Asian Institute of Management. Tita told us:
I felt like I had it all. Then, when I heard that speech on the economy of communion, I realised: this is what God is calling me to at this moment in my life
The communion economy transformed her outlook on life and money. Despite initial family resistance, Tita Puangco decided to follow this path, finding in her husband a supportive partner. Her experience shows how it is possible to balance the roles of entrepreneur, wife and mother, with the help of family members and careful time management.
A central aspect of Tita Puangco's business philosophy is the concept of being a ‘helping hand’. This translates into concrete support for both customers and employees. In the interview, Tita shared various examples of how her company and also she personally have assisted employees in financial difficulties, demonstrating that the communion economy is not just a theoretical model, but a daily practice of solidarity. This approach has allowed her company to grow and prosper, extending its activities throughout South East Asia.
For us, therefore, helping the poor also includes some of our employees who may not be able to afford something at a certain stage of their lives
At the end of the interview Tita offers valuable advice for those who wish to embark on an entrepreneurial path based on the values of the communion economy:
My advice is to start small if you do not have a lot of capital. Start small and experiment, experiment.
Tita's story is an inspiring example of how faith, determination and generosity can transform not only personal lives, but also those of an entire community. Listen to the interview and join us in being part of this movement!
Find previous interviews in the Flashes of Life and Roots series on this page.
