Early Life and Family Influence
My name is Aeron Uy, and my journey, while seemingly unremarkable in my own eyes, has always been rooted in family, growth, and learning. Growing up in Cebu, I was constantly surrounded by individuals who exemplified the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication—traits that were deeply embedded in me from a young age. Being a member of the Uy family, known for our ventures like Profood International Corp. and JPark Island Resort, business discussions were a staple at family gatherings. This environment sparked my curiosity about entrepreneurship, paving the way for my early business endeavors.
My father, Jason Uy, alongside my uncles, Justin and Jerry, were key role models, while my grandmother, Marcela, was a source of wisdom and inspiration. Watching them build and manage successful enterprises, I understood early on that there are no shortcuts to success—only determination, integrity, and a willingness to learn from both triumphs and failures.
Entrepreneurial Beginnings
I started my first business when I was only 14 years old. It wasn’t a grand enterprise, but it was meaningful to me. Using my saved allowance, I purchased a drone and began renting it out to clients. This small venture taught me valuable lessons about customer service, financial management, and most importantly, the thrill and satisfaction that come with creating something of my own. From this experience, I knew that business would be a central part of my life.
Driven by an eagerness to understand more about how markets work, I delved into stock trading during my teenage years. The intricacies of the financial world intrigued me, and I devoted much of my free time to learning about it. By the time I joined the University of San Carlos, where I earned a degree in Financial Management, I had already gained considerable practical knowledge.
During my college years, I enrolled in the Certified Securities Specialist course offered by the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE). This 124-hour program was intense and covered various aspects of financial market theories, valuation techniques, and investment portfolio management. While many might find such a course daunting, I embraced it eagerly, relishing the opportunity to deepen my understanding of investment strategies.
Building My Path
In October 2022, I formally joined the family business as JPark’s interim marketing manager. Although I had been involved in different capacities, this role allowed me to have a more direct impact on the business, focusing on brand establishment and building sustainable relationships with partners both locally and abroad. I see it as my way of contributing to JPark’s mission of becoming the premier resort destination in Cebu and upholding our family’s legacy of excellence.
Transitioning into this role was challenging, as the expectations were high—not just from others but from myself as well. My approach was to take one step at a time, drawing on the lessons I had learned growing up. I realized that every opportunity to lead also comes with a responsibility to listen, adapt, and grow. It is this mindset that I carry forward as I strive to make meaningful contributions to the business.
A Legacy of Sustainable Business
The businesses we have built as a family are not just about profit—they are about creating lasting, positive impacts on our community and industries. JPark Island Resort, for example, is more than just a destination. It is a testament to our commitment to promoting tourism, providing employment, and establishing a legacy that stands the test of time. I am honored to be part of this endeavor and contribute to its ongoing success.
Being a third-generation Uy in the business world means I carry a legacy, but I am also driven to forge my own path. My personal journey is guided by a sincere desire to learn, grow, and eventually lead in a way that upholds the values my family has instilled in me.
Looking Ahead
The future holds many uncertainties, but what I am sure of is my commitment to continuous growth and my belief in the transformative power of education and entrepreneurship. While my story may seem ordinary, it is a narrative that I am proud of, built on the foundations laid by those who came before me.
I am Aeron Uy, and this is just the beginning of my story.