Have you ever wondered who the top business moguls in the Philippines are? Who are the famous Filipino entrepreneurs that have achieved remarkable success and become renowned leaders in their industries? And what are the secrets behind their entrepreneurial triumphs?
Discover the extraordinary journeys and captivating stories of the top 10 successful entrepreneurs in the Philippines. From building retail empires to revolutionizing the fast-food industry, these Filipino business leaders have defied expectations, overcome challenges, and created their own paths to success.
Whether you’re interested in learning from their experiences, seeking inspiration for your own entrepreneurial journey, or simply want to explore the fascinating world of Filipino entrepreneurial success stories, this article will provide all the insights you need. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and empowered by the remarkable stories of the best entrepreneurs in the Philippines.
Key Takeaways:
- Explore the journeys and stories behind the top 10 successful entrepreneurs in the Philippines
- Uncover the secrets to their exceptional business acumen and innovative thinking
- Learn valuable lessons from their experiences and apply them to your own entrepreneurial endeavors
- Discover the immense potential for entrepreneurial success in the Philippines
- Gain insights into the diverse industries and strategies that have led to their remarkable achievements
Henry Sy – Building an Empire with Shoe Mart
Henry Sy, often referred to as the “Father of Philippine Retail,” built a retail empire with Shoe Mart (SM). Starting from humble beginnings, Sy opened a small shoe store in Manila and grew it into the iconic SM brand. Today, SM is more than just a mall; it is a well-loved institution with over 70 malls in the Philippines.
Henry Sy’s story is an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the power of perseverance and innovative thinking. Despite starting with limited resources, Sy’s determination and strategic vision propelled him to establish one of the most successful retail giants in the country. By consistently prioritizing customer satisfaction, Sy transformed Shoe Mart into a go-to destination for shopping, entertainment, and dining.
Through continuous expansion and diversification, Sy’s leadership ensured that SM malls evolved with the changing needs of its customers. The retail giant has become synonymous with quality, variety, and convenience, attracting millions of visitors annually. SM malls offer a diverse range of products and services, from fashion and home goods to entertainment and dining options.
“When you’re first starting out, don’t be afraid to think big. Dream of what your business could become and work tirelessly to make it a reality.” – Henry Sy
Henry Sy’s success story serves as a reminder that with passion, determination, and a customer-centric approach, anyone can build an empire. His journey exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience needed to overcome challenges and achieve extraordinary success.
Key Achievements of Henry Sy and SM:
Achievement | Description |
---|---|
SM Prime Holdings | The company became the largest mall operator in the Philippines and is among the top developers in Southeast Asia. |
SM Investments Corporation | Henry Sy’s conglomerate expanded into other industries, including banking, property development, and retail operations. |
Forbes List | Henry Sy consistently appeared on Forbes’ list of the world’s wealthiest individuals. |
Henry Sy’s remarkable achievements and impact on Philippine retail have built a lasting legacy. His story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs to dream big, work hard, and create their own success stories.
Tony Tan Caktiong – Revolutionizing the Fast-Food Industry with Jollibee Foods
Tony Tan Caktiong is a visionary entrepreneur who has revolutionized the fast-food industry with Jollibee Foods Corporation. As the founder and chairman of Jollibee, Tony Tan Caktiong has transformed the Filipino fast-food chain into a global powerhouse, known for its delicious food and unique Filipino flavors.
Driven by his innovative approach, Tony Tan Caktiong has successfully positioned Jollibee as an iconic brand in the Philippines and beyond. With thousands of stores worldwide, Jollibee continues to attract a loyal customer base by offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes and preferences.
One of the key factors contributing to Jollibee’s success is its commitment to delivering mouthwatering dishes with authentic Filipino flavors. From the iconic Chickenjoy to the flavorful Jolly Spaghetti, Jollibee has become synonymous with delicious fast food that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine.
Moreover, Tony Tan Caktiong’s entrepreneurial spirit and strategic business decisions have played a vital role in Jollibee’s expansion and global reach. Under his leadership, Jollibee has successfully established a strong presence in international markets, including the United States, Canada, and the Middle East.
To illustrate the tremendous growth and success of Jollibee Foods Corporation, here’s a comparison of Jollibee’s global presence in 1995 and 2021:
Year | Number of Stores in the Philippines | Number of International Stores |
---|---|---|
1995 | 276 | 8 |
2021 | 1,458 | 3,362 |
As shown in the table, Jollibee has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its presence both domestically and globally over the years. This growth signifies the strong demand for Jollibee’s unique fast-food offerings and Tony Tan Caktiong’s ability to capture diverse markets.
Tony Tan Caktiong’s entrepreneurial journey and his success with Jollibee Foods Corporation serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. His story highlights the importance of innovation, customer satisfaction, and a deep understanding of local flavors and preferences.
The Expansion of Jollibee Foods Corporation
Driven by Tony Tan Caktiong’s entrepreneurial vision, Jollibee Foods Corporation has expanded beyond its flagship brand, Jollibee, to encompass other successful fast-food chains and brands. Here are some notable subsidiaries under Jollibee Foods Corporation:
- Mang Inasal: A popular fast-food chain known for its authentic Filipino barbeque meals.
- Chowking: A Chinese fast-food chain offering delicious Chinese dishes with a Filipino twist.
- Greenwich Pizza: A pizza delivery and dine-in chain that offers a wide variety of pizzas, pasta, and snacks.
- Red Ribbon: A bakeshop chain specializing in baked goods and cakes.
- Yonghe King: A Chinese fast-food chain with a focus on soy milk and traditional Chinese breakfast options.
Through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, Tony Tan Caktiong has expanded Jollibee Foods Corporation’s portfolio, catering to different market segments and diversifying the company’s revenue streams.
“I always believe that innovation is very important. If you want to be ahead, you have to change faster than anyone else.”
Inspiring Filipino Entrepreneurship
Tony Tan Caktiong’s entrepreneurial success has not only transformed the fast-food industry but has also inspired countless Filipino entrepreneurs. Through his achievements, Tony Tan Caktiong has shown that a strong entrepreneurial spirit, combined with a deep understanding of local flavors and preferences, can lead to remarkable success.
Aspiring entrepreneurs can learn valuable lessons from Tony Tan Caktiong’s journey, including the importance of innovation, customer satisfaction, and persistence in pursuing one’s passion. Tony Tan Caktiong’s story is a testament to the potential for entrepreneurial success in the Philippines and the power of Filipino flavors to captivate a global audience.
Socorro Ramos – From Salesgirl to Success with National Book Store
Socorro Ramos, also known as Nanay Coring, is a remarkable entrepreneur who started her journey from humble beginnings as a salesgirl in a bookshop. With sheer determination and a capital of just PHP 200, Ramos and her husband took a leap of faith and opened their first store, which would eventually become the iconic National Book Store.
Ramos’s passion for books and commitment to providing quality products led to the rapid growth of National Book Store. Today, it stands proudly as the largest bookstore chain in the Philippines, with over 230 branches nationwide. The store offers a wide range of books, stationery, and school supplies, catering to the needs of students, book enthusiasts, and professionals.
The success of National Book Store can be attributed to Socorro Ramos’s relentless pursuit of excellence and her ability to adapt to the ever-changing retail landscape. Despite facing numerous challenges, she persevered and established a trusted brand that has become a cornerstone of the Filipino reading and learning culture.
Socorro Ramos’s inspiring entrepreneurial journey serves as a shining example of how determination and hard work can turn humble beginnings into great success. Her story underscores the transformative power of passion and the unwavering commitment to providing exceptional products and services.
Key Milestones of National Book Store
Year | Milestone |
---|---|
1942 | Opening of the first National Book Store in Manila |
1951 | Expansion to offer office and school supplies |
1975 | Introduction of imported books in stores |
1990 | Launch of the NBS Foundation to support education and literacy |
2015 | Opening of its 100th branch |
2020 | Celebration of 75 years of National Book Store |
Socorro Ramos’s entrepreneurial journey and the success of National Book Store continue to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for one’s chosen field. Through her visionary leadership, she has not only shaped the retail landscape in the Philippines but also left an indelible mark on the literary and educational landscape, fostering a love for reading and knowledge.
John Gokongwei Jr. – Overcoming Adversity with J.G. Holdings
John Gokongwei Jr., a true embodiment of resilience and determination, started his entrepreneurial journey by peddling goods on the streets of Cebu. Despite facing countless obstacles, he ventured into diverse industries and founded J.G. Holdings, a renowned conglomerate with a remarkable track record of success.
One of Gokongwei’s most notable achievements is the establishment of Universal Robina Corporation, a leading food and beverage company. Through Universal Robina Corporation, Gokongwei introduced popular brands like Jack ‘n Jill, capturing the hearts and taste buds of countless consumers.
“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
– John Gokongwei Jr.
John Gokongwei Jr.’s entrepreneurial journey stands as a testament to his unwavering resilience, ability to overcome challenges, and unwavering commitment to success. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and diversification in achieving business success.
The Power of Diversification
Gokongwei’s success can be attributed, in part, to his strategic diversification across multiple industries. By venturing into various sectors, he minimized risk and capitalized on emerging market opportunities. This diversification approach allowed J.G. Holdings to thrive even during challenging economic times.
Through J.G. Holdings, Gokongwei has made significant investments in sectors such as real estate, telecommunications, aviation, and banking. This strategic diversification not only strengthened his business empire but also contributed to the growth and development of the Philippine economy.
Continuing the Legacy
Even after Gokongwei’s passing in 2019, J.G. Holdings continues to flourish under the leadership of his family. The core values instilled by Gokongwei, such as integrity, innovation, and customer-centricity, remain at the heart of the conglomerate’s operations.
The enduring legacy of John Gokongwei Jr. serves as a reminder that with dedication, resilience, and a forward-thinking mindset, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve remarkable success in the world of business.
Edgar Sia – Trailblazing the Fast-Food Industry with Mang Inasal
Edgar Sia is the visionary behind Mang Inasal, a fast-food franchise that has revolutionized the industry with its unique offering of limitless rice meals. Sia’s entrepreneurial journey started when he made the bold decision to drop out of college and pursue his passion for business. He set up his own laundry and photo-developing business, laying the foundation for his future success.
At just 26 years old, Sia launched Mang Inasal, a fast-food chain that focused on serving delicious grilled chicken and providing an unlimited supply of riceโa concept that appealed strongly to Filipinos who love their rice. The combination of mouthwatering flavors and affordable prices quickly propelled Mang Inasal to the forefront of the industry.
Recognizing the immense potential in Sia’s innovative business model, Jollibee Foods Corporation acquired Mang Inasal for PHP 5 billionโa testament to the brand’s profitability and market dominance.
Edgar Sia’s success story highlights the power of bold ideas and hard work. Through his pioneering approach, he has reshaped the fast-food landscape in the Philippines, capturing the hearts and appetites of countless customers. Mang Inasal’s commitment to providing delicious meals and a limitless supply of rice has earned the brand a loyal fan base.
Edgar Sia’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the possibilities that can be achieved through determination, innovation, and a passion for customer satisfaction.
Mariano Que – Revolutionizing the Pharmacy Industry with Mercury Drug
Mariano Que, a visionary entrepreneur, recognized the untapped potential in the pharmacy industry after World War II. In his pursuit of delivering accessible healthcare to Filipino communities, Que started selling high-quality sulfa drugs, which ultimately laid the foundation for the establishment of Mercury Drug, the leading pharmacy chain in the Philippines.
Driven by his commitment to providing affordable and quality products, Que transformed Mercury Drug into a household name. The innovative services offered by the pharmacy chain have revolutionized the way Filipinos access medication and healthcare.
Mercury Drug’s success can be attributed to Mariano Que’s diligent efforts in identifying market gaps and fulfilling the evolving needs of consumers. By introducing various innovative services, including online prescription ordering, home delivery, and 24-hour availability, Que ensured convenience and accessibility for all.
Throughout its history, Mercury Drug has stayed true to its mission of providing reliable, affordable, and quality healthcare to every Filipino. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of innovation, exceptional service, and a deep-rooted commitment to improving the lives of Filipino communities.
Innovative Services by Mercury Drug
- Online Prescription Ordering: Customers can conveniently order their prescriptions online and have them prepared for pickup or delivered to their doorstep.
- Home Delivery: Mercury Drug offers home delivery services, ensuring that medication reaches customers’ homes, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those residing in remote areas.
- 24-Hour Availability: Many Mercury Drug branches operate around the clock, providing customers with access to essential healthcare products and services at any time.
- Health Clinics and Laboratories: Some Mercury Drug branches are equipped with medical clinics and laboratories, offering a range of diagnostic tests and consultations.
Mercury Drug’s innovative services have not only transformed the pharmacy industry but have also set a benchmark for other players in the healthcare sector. Mariano Que’s entrepreneurial journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding them of the power of identifying market gaps and delivering exceptional service.
Cresida Tueres – Building a Pizza Empire with Greenwich Pizza
Cresida Tueres, a talented entrepreneur with a passion for cooking, founded Greenwich Pizza, a pizza franchise that began as a humble over-the-counter pizza shop. With the support and encouragement of her friends and family, Tueres transformed the small shop into a thriving national franchise.
Greenwich Pizza quickly gained popularity for its delicious and freshly-made pizzas, captivating the taste buds of pizza lovers across the country. Tueres’ commitment to using high-quality ingredients and her attention to detail in crafting each pizza contributed to the success of the franchise.
Jollibee Foods Corporation recognized Tueres’ exceptional commercial acumen and acquired 80% of Greenwich’s stock. This strategic partnership allowed Greenwich Pizza to leverage the resources and expertise of Jollibee Foods Corporation, further propelling its growth and expansion.
Today, Greenwich Pizza Corporation continues to thrive under the Jollibee Foods Corporation umbrella, offering a wide range of delectable pizzas and other delectable treats. The franchise’s commitment to delivering quality, value, and innovation has earned it a loyal customer base and a prominent position in the competitive pizza industry.
Cresida Tueres’ entrepreneurial journey with Greenwich Pizza exemplifies the power of vision, dedication, and culinary excellence. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating the potential for success in the food franchise industry.
Cecilio Kwok Pedro – Overcoming Adversity with Lamoiyan Corporation
Cecilio Kwok Pedro, a resilient entrepreneur, faced a significant setback when his previous business, Aluminum Container Inc., closed down. However, Pedro refused to let this defeat define him. Instead, he persevered and went on to found Lamoiyan Corporation, a toothpaste manufacturing company.
Driven by a vision to make oral care accessible to all, Lamoiyan Corporation quickly carved a place for itself in the market by offering toothpaste at a more affordable price than its competitors. This strategic move allowed the company to cater to a wider range of consumers, making dental hygiene more accessible to the masses.
But Cecilio Kwok Pedro didn’t stop there. He embraced innovation and continually introduced innovative toothpaste products to the market, capturing the attention of consumers who were looking for something new and revolutionary.
What sets Pedro apart is not just his entrepreneurial success, but his unwavering commitment to advocacy. Lamoiyan Corporation has become a champion for the hearing-impaired community, providing job opportunities and support for their education. Pedro’s dedication to social responsibility has truly made a positive impact, promising a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Through his resilience and determination, Cecilio Kwok Pedro has overcome adversity and built Lamoiyan Corporation into a manufacturing success story. His entrepreneurial journey serves as an inspiration, reminding us all that with perseverance and social responsibility, anything is possible.
Let us now take a closer look at the accomplishments of Cecilio Kwok Pedro and the impact of Lamoiyan Corporation:
Accomplishments | Impact |
---|---|
Innovative toothpaste products at affordable prices | Provided access to quality dental hygiene for a wider population |
Advocacy for the hearing-impaired community | Created job opportunities and supported education for the hearing-impaired |
Through Lamoiyan Corporation, Cecilio Kwok Pedro has not only achieved manufacturing success but has also made a positive impact on society. His story serves as a reminder that resilience, innovation, and social responsibility can shape a better future for all.
Alfredo M Yao – Creating a Beverage Empire with Zest-O
Alfredo M Yao is a visionary entrepreneur who built a beverage empire with Zest-O, a leading juice drink brand in the Philippines. His entrepreneurial journey began with a small trading business, and he recognized the untapped potential of the beverage industry. With keen insights and a passion for innovation, Yao ventured into the production of affordable and high-quality beverages.
Zest-O quickly gained popularity among Filipino consumers, becoming a household name known for its refreshing flavors and value for money. With a deep understanding of the market’s needs, Alfredo M Yao successfully positioned Zest-O as a trusted and accessible brand.
By combining innovative branding strategies and an unwavering commitment to quality, Alfredo M Yao established Zest-O as a key player in the beverage industry. His entrepreneurial success serves as an inspiration for aspiring business leaders, demonstrating the power of identifying opportunities, understanding consumer preferences, and delivering exceptional products.
Zest-O’s Success Factors
Key Success Factors | Description |
---|---|
Innovative Branding | Zest-O’s distinct branding strategies set it apart from competitors, capturing consumers’ attention and establishing brand loyalty. |
Focus on Market Needs | By understanding the evolving preferences of consumers, Zest-O continuously introduces new flavors and packaging options, catering to diverse tastes. |
Commitment to Quality | Zest-O’s commitment to providing high-quality beverages ensures customer satisfaction and trust, contributing to its long-term success. |
Accessibility and Affordability | By offering affordable and readily available products, Zest-O has captured a wide market segment, making it a go-to brand for many Filipino consumers. |
“Success in the beverage industry requires understanding consumer preferences and providing products that meet their needs. Alfredo M Yao’s entrepreneurial journey with Zest-O exemplifies the importance of innovative branding, a customer-centric approach, and a commitment to excellence. By creating a beverage empire, Yao has left an indelible mark on the Filipino market.”
Gregorio G Sanchez Jr – Empowering Local Communities with LactoPAFI
Meet Gregorio G Sanchez Jr, a successful entrepreneur in the dairy industry and the founder of LactoPAFI. With his commitment to sustainable farming practices and community development, Sanchez Jr has made LactoPAFI a leading player in the dairy sector.
LactoPAFI is not just about producing high-quality dairy products; it’s also about making a positive impact on local communities. Sanchez Jr has implemented various initiatives to empower these communities and create employment opportunities.
Through LactoPAFI’s community development programs, Sanchez Jr has provided training and support to local farmers, helping them improve their livelihoods and achieve economic stability. By fostering sustainable farming practices, he has also contributed to the preservation of the environment.
Gregorio G Sanchez Jr’s story is a testament to the power of social entrepreneurship and creating positive change. By combining business success with community development, he has built a company that not only thrives in the dairy industry but also uplifts and empowers local communities.
Entrepreneurial Success in the Philippines – A Challenging Journey
Becoming a successful entrepreneur in the Philippines is no easy feat. The entrepreneurial journey in the country is filled with numerous challenges and risks. However, the stories of these remarkable individuals showcase that success is indeed achievable through dedication, innovation, and hard work. These inspirational entrepreneurs have overcome significant obstacles and achieved remarkable heights in their respective industries.
One of the key challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the Philippines is the competitive business landscape. Starting and sustaining a business in a highly competitive environment demands innovative strategies and a deep understanding of the market. The need to differentiate oneself in a crowded market is crucial.
Another challenge is the socioeconomic environment. Factors such as poverty, limited access to capital, bureaucratic hurdles, and inadequate infrastructure can present significant obstacles for aspiring entrepreneurs. Overcoming these challenges requires resilience, determination, and resourcefulness.
Entrepreneurs in the Philippines also face challenges specific to their industries. For example, the food industry demands continuous innovation to cater to changing consumer preferences. Retail businesses require strategies to adapt to the changing landscape of e-commerce and online shopping. Each industry has its unique challenges that require entrepreneurs to constantly reinvent and adapt.
Quotes:
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted. It takes courage, persistence, and a willingness to learn from failures. But the journey is worth it when you see your ideas come to life and make a positive impact.
Challenges are what make us grow and push us to reach new heights. Embrace them, learn from them, and let them be the stepping stones to your success as an entrepreneur.
Top 3 Business Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs in the Philippines:
Business Challenge | Description |
---|---|
Intense Competition | The Philippine market is highly competitive, with many entrepreneurs vying for the same customers. Standing out and differentiating oneself from competitors is crucial. |
Socioeconomic Factors | Factors such as poverty, limited access to capital, bureaucratic hurdles, and inadequate infrastructure can pose significant challenges for entrepreneurs. |
Industry-specific Challenges | Each industry has its unique set of challenges. Entrepreneurs need to stay updated with industry trends and continuously innovate to stay relevant. |
The entrepreneurial journey in the Philippines is an arduous one, but the rewards can be immense. Aspiring entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from the stories of these successful entrepreneurs and learn valuable lessons about perseverance, innovation, and adaptability. By embracing the challenges and overcoming obstacles, Filipino entrepreneurs have the potential to make a significant impact on the business landscape and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Key Lessons from the Top 10 Successful Entrepreneurs in the Philippines
The top 10 successful entrepreneurs in the Philippines have valuable lessons to offer. Their journeys are filled with insights and wisdom, showcasing the qualities needed for entrepreneurial success. Let’s delve into some key lessons from these Filipino entrepreneurs:
1. Perseverance and Resilience
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
Henry Sy, John Gokongwei Jr., and Socorro Ramos demonstrated unwavering perseverance in the face of challenges. They overcame setbacks and setbacks, resiliently pushing forward to achieve their goals.
2. Innovation and Creativity
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” – Steve Jobs
Tony Tan Caktiong, Edgar Sia, and Alfredo M Yao embraced innovation, carving their own niches in highly competitive industries. Their ability to think outside the box and offer unique products/services set them apart from the crowd.
3. Customer Satisfaction
“Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.” – Bill Gates
Cresida Tueres and Mariano Que understood the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction. They built successful businesses by delivering exceptional products and services that catered to their customers’ needs and desires.
4. Identifying Market Gaps
“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.” – Chris Grosser
Cecilio Kwok Pedro and Gregorio G Sanchez Jr. recognized market gaps and capitalized on them. They identified untapped opportunities and introduced innovative solutions that filled those gaps, effectively meeting the demands of their target audience.
By studying these lessons from successful Filipino entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs can gain valuable knowledge and enhance their chances of success. The stories of these remarkable individuals serve as inspiration and motivation, showcasing the qualities and strategies required to excel in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship.
The image above represents the journey of successful entrepreneurs, underlining the importance of key lessons.
The Potential for Entrepreneurial Success in the Philippines
The Philippines offers immense potential for entrepreneurial success. With a growing economy, a young and dynamic workforce, and a supportive business environment, there are numerous opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive. The success stories of the top entrepreneurs in the Philippines serve as proof of this potential, motivating others to embark on their own entrepreneurial journeys.
Conclusion
The top 10 successful entrepreneurs in the Philippines have paved the way for aspiring businessmen and women, demonstrating that with innovation, determination, and hard work, anyone can achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. These business moguls in the Philippines have not only built successful companies but have also become renowned leaders in their respective industries.
Through their unwavering dedication and commitment, these famous Filipino entrepreneurs have created a legacy of entrepreneurial success stories that inspire and motivate others. Their journeys highlight the importance of identifying market gaps, embracing innovation, and prioritizing customer satisfaction as key factors for achieving business success.
By studying the stories and lessons of these top Filipino businessmen, aspiring entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial mindset and adopt strategies that can drive their own success. With the guidance of these renowned entrepreneurs in the Philippines, individuals can navigate the challenging landscape of business, overcome obstacles, and contribute to the growth of the Philippine economy.
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