Edrian B. Banania, Junior Writer
In the quiet, flower-filled hills of Barangay Malubog, Cebu City, the story of Arlene Borres begins. Born the eldest of nine children in a farming family, the rows of vegetables, the scent of cut blooms, and the responsibility of helping her parents make ends meet shaped Arlene’s childhood. At just five years old, Arlene was already selling flower bouquets after school, an early sign of the determination and business mindset that would one day transform her life.
“I had to grow up quickly,” Arelene says. “My parents worked hard, and I knew I had to help. Even as a child, I wanted to do something,” she added.
Her early efforts were the seeds of a future destined to flourish despite all challenges. With no guarantee of finishing school, Arlene’s story could have easily ended in struggle. But her dedication caught the attention of generous souls who helped her complete high school.
With big dreams and the support of her family, she worked hard and eventually earned a technical-vocational college certificate, a milestone made possible by her determination and perseverance.
Rooted in Resilience
When Arlene decided to turn her passion into a formal business, she had just PHP 750, determination, and years of experience bundled into every bouquet. She started small. She visits flower farms, selects fresh blooms, and crafts arrangements with care and precision.
The road was far from easy. Arlene faced tight competition, natural calamities, and the constant challenge of limited capital. But she never allowed those hardships to uproot her dreams.
“Growing up in poverty, I never allowed it to stop me from pursuing a better life,” Arlene shares. “My faith in God gave me the strength and determination to move forward and chase the life I have always dreamed of for myself and my family.”
With faith and hard work, Arlene’s business began to blossom. An important moment came when she became a client of CARD SME Bank, a thrift bank under CARD MRI. Starting with a modest loan of PHP 5,000, her credit line eventually grew to PHP 100,000, providing essential capital to support her growing business and maintain a steady inventory for her expanding customer base.
“For more than 10 years of being a client of CARD SME Bank, I have found a reliable partner that has consistently provided financial assistance whenever I needed it. They have always supported me and other local entrepreneurs, empowering us to achieve great things and continue being a source of inspiration to many. With their support, I have learned that no dream is too big when you have the right people behind you,” Arlene said.
Arlene’s journey is not just one of personal success, but it’s one of community impact. She actively supports local flower farmers in Busay, ensuring that her business not only thrives but also uplifts those around her.
“My heart and passion truly lie in this business. Through it, I can give back by supporting local floral growers and helping keep our community blooming,” she says.
Blooms of Dedication
Today, Arlene caters to clients from Manila, Negros Oriental, Iloilo, Bohol, and across Cebu. She now owns a comfortable home and two vehicles. Her eldest child has earned a degree in Secondary Education. True to her generous nature, she also financed two years of college for her nephew, who pursued engineering.
Arlene’s floral offerings now include both local and select imported flowers, but her advocacy remains rooted in championing local farmers. Her loyal suppliers in Busay continue to play an important role in her operations. It mirrors the mutual respect and community spirit she nurtures.
Her story is not just about business, but a symbol of perseverance, faith, and the strength of women who rise above life’s hardships.
“The journey to success is never easy. Some ups and downs test our patience, dedication, and faith. But like a flower, we bloom at the right time and in the right place, despite the odds,” she concluded.
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