Jose “Jomag” Magsaysay, Jr. is a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success in the Philippines. Beyond founding the ubiquitous Potato Corner, a story of franchising mastery with over 1,300 locations worldwide, he’s become a quiet force shaping the next generation of Filipino business leaders.
Many consider him a legend, and for good reason. He isn’t simply building businesses; he’s building entrepreneurs. This isn’t a story of past achievements, but of a dynamic “version 2.0” – a new chapter focused on mentorship and investment.
Jomag’s influence extends far beyond Potato Corner. He actively participates in numerous ventures as a founder, investor, and board member, earning him the affectionate title of “partner ng bayan” – a partner of the community.
Surprisingly, connecting with this influential figure is remarkably straightforward. He actively seeks out promising entrepreneurs through a simple invitation: “DM me.” Share your story, your challenges, and your vision, and if it resonates, he’ll respond.
He’s particularly interested in ideas centered around food, platform development, and building robust ecosystems. Jomag shares his insights regularly on Facebook, in a series titled “Business As It Really Is,” offering a direct line to his invaluable experience.
His current role as entrepreneur in residence at the Asian Institute of Management allows him to directly impact future leaders, providing guidance and perspective honed from decades of experience.
A guiding principle throughout his career has been a willingness to forge his own path, even if it means walking alone. As an admitted introvert, he prioritizes independent thought and action, refusing to compromise his vision to conform to the group.
Today, his days are filled with mentoring, offering a fresh perspective to founders grappling with challenges they may not even recognize within themselves. He emphasizes the enduring value of mentorship, admitting he still relies on guidance from his own mentors.
His Facebook writings delve into crucial concepts for modern business success: Platform Thinking, Structural Dominance, and Scar Tissue Leadership. These aren’t abstract theories, but practical frameworks born from real-world experience.
He openly discusses the lessons learned from stepping away from Potato Corner, explaining how those periods of transition became launching pads for new ventures. These “runways,” as he calls them, fueled his entrepreneurial spirit and allowed him to explore new opportunities.
Jomag’s wisdom extends beyond business strategy. He stresses the importance of humility, often choosing to observe and listen before offering his perspective. He attributes much of his clarity to periods of solitude, particularly during his recovery from serious injuries.
“Humility is very important,” he reflects. “Whenever I enter a room, I never sit in front… I’m able to think about what to say. That alone time is very important.” This quiet contemplation, he believes, is essential for self-awareness and informed decision-making.
Jomag Magsaysay, Jr. isn’t just a successful entrepreneur; he’s a thoughtful leader, a dedicated mentor, and a constant student of the game. His story is a testament to the power of independent thinking, resilience, and a genuine desire to empower others.
