Enterprising Lucena teen gets aid from impressed Frontrow founder Sam Verzosa
MANILA, Philippines — An enterprising 14-year-old Jaeden dela Cruz has become such a local sensation in Lucena City in Quezon for his dedication and hard work — so much that he impressed Sam Verzosa, founder of the multi-level marketing firm Frontrow.
An incoming eighth-grade student, Jaeden spends his afternoons selling pasalubong items after finishing school in the morning.
Despite his young age, he already earns around P500 dail, which he uses for his school needs and savings.
According to his mother, Maricel dela Cruz, Jaeden is not forced to sell or work for the family. She describes him as very hardworking, helpful, and a loving son.
Jaeden’s motivation stems from the loss of his father due to pulmonary and heart complications, which has driven him to help his family.
In addition to selling pasalubong, Jaeden happens to be an active member of Frontrow. He is dedicated to learning the trade and regularly attends seminars and meetings to improve his skills.
Recently, a viral video of Jaeden talking about the importance of hard work and dignity in selling pasalubong caught the attention of Sam “SV” Verzosa – the host of the public service program “Dear SV.”
After watching the video, SV decided to visit Jaeden in Lucena.
In the episode of “Dear SV,” Jaeden impressed the host with his positive attitude and potential despite his young age and struggles.
As an entrepreneur and salesman himself, SV challenged Jaeden to a sales contest, where they competed to sell as many pasalubong as possible. Jaeden won the challenge with his persistence and dedication.
@samverzosaofficial Dumayo kami ng Lucena City para kilalanin ang masipag na batang si Jaeden at magbigay ng tulong para sa kanya at sa kanyang pamilya.. sana ingatan at mapalago mo lahat ng naitulong ng Dear SV sayo 👍🏼☺️ #DearSV on GMA 7 💫❤️
To support Jaeden and his family, SV provided them with a negosyo package to help them sell goods from home. He also gave them a cellphone for their loading business, a grocery package, school supplies for Jaeden and his siblings, a bicycle (Jaeden had to sell his own previously to make money), a scholarship, and financial assistance for Jaeden to continue his education.
SV emphasized to Jaeden: “Kahit na naguumpisa ka na magnegosyo, naguumpisa ka na kumita, gusto ko pa din ibahagi sayo yung kahalagahan ng pagaaral. Kaya importante pa din na magkaroon ka ng diploma mo.”
[Even if you have started to get into business and are already earning, I still want to share with the value of studying. So it’s important for you to get a diploma.]