I was tasked by my team (more of pinilit) to do a message & write-up as we commemorate and celebrate Stash’s 10th Anniversary. I was having a hard time composing a short anecdote as there’s so much to “say”, “remember”, and appreciate that will do justice to the whole 10 years.

On this particular note, I decided to just post a collection of photos from our very first days until this year. I’ve decided to do an album of 10 photo collages to summarize the highlights of the experience.

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Looking at them now, I am just thankful to our God Almighty for his grace that He sustained me, my family, and the team for all those years. Make no mistake, we’ve gone through many tribulations — missing payroll, operating at a loss, global pandemic…. But by God’s grace, we’re still here. It was exhausting, but seeing the collection of memories, impact, and innovation we have done, somehow I can say, it was worth it.

Through this experience, I am certain that the Lord has used this to refine me, sanctify me, and teach me.

Sabi nga ng mga matatanda, “Malayo pa, pero malayo narin”. Maraming Salamat sa inyo!! Hindi rin ako aabot dito kung wala kayo. Salamat!!!

Surreal. I can’t believe we were able to manage a decade of impactful work. It feels just yesterday but it also felt like more than 10 years as they were honest hard work.

Looking back, I see myself that entrepreneur that is full of hope, idealist, full of energy, but also naive. I am very grateful to the Lord for his amazing grace in all those years. I wouldn’t last a day without Him. By His grace, this company (and myself) survived and thrived.

It’s not as glamorous as those typical SV startups or those in Fintech or Ecom industries but with so little resource, we’ve done great feats along the way. I’m thankful for all the partners who trusted us, challenged us, and invested in us. I’m thankful for the opportunities to serve, to lead, and to inspire others to do impactful and missional work.

I’m a mere servant who desires to be a good and faithful steward of His blessings — earthly and spiritual.