STAR Rtn. Joaquin “Jack” H. Rodriguez: How He Built His Way to Success

A son of RCM Past President Jackie Rodriguez, it is no surprise that he is also now a Rotarian. Not only because he idolizes his father, but also because of his passion to contribute to society while networking. Read on and get to know STAR Rtn. Jack as he shares his story and the reason for joining RCM.

A self-taught computer programmer and teacher, STAR Rtn. Joaquin “Jack” H. Rodriguez found himself falling in love with the real estate industry in 1987, when he successfully developed his first project —Springville in Bacoor, Cavite. He never looked back since. After selling the entire project to Camella Homes, he used his profits and partnered with UNIVAC Development Corporation— an entrepreneurial move that saw him purchasing, developing and selling several subdivisions totaling to about 500 hectares over a ten-year period.

Rhea Vitto Tabora (RVT): I read that you actually started your career as a self-taught programmer and teacher until you found your appetite in different areas of the real estate industry. What inspired you to change your career path?

Joaquin “Jack” H. Rodriguez (JHR): My father always trained us to be entrepreneurs. He encouraged and supported us in all our endeavors. Apart from programming and teaching, to augment my income, I took a job in a company owned by my Dad and his partner. My sole function was to dispose of the assets. One of the assets was a small property that just felt right—I knew that I could do something with it. I managed to negotiate a sweetheart deal with the partner. Needless to say, my Dad backed me up and became my partner. That was 1987. Real estate was exploding. We partnered with Camella Homes and made some good money, and we just kept going.

RVT: Please give us a glimpse into your current role as CEO of MicroMansions Inc. and Green Globe Environmental Technologies, Inc., and as Chairman of Logicall, Inc.

JHR: I currently serve as CEO of MicroMansions—a company currently involved in land banking. MicroMansions has gone through a land acquisition phase and is now focused on selling or partnering with significant developers to maximize the value of our assets. Green Globe and Logicall were entrepreneurial efforts in industrial waste and the BPO industry that have run their course and have since been sold.

RVT: What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

JHR: Every time I get a project off the ground.

RVT: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

JHR: Literally, every time I bring a project to a successful conclusion and all stakeholders are happy.

RVT: Name a business leader whom you look up to, and why?

JHR: My father has always been my role model and, having shared an office with him through the years, I learned valuable lessons that have helped me throughout my career—lessons that helped me find success and showed me how to navigate failure. Another person I admire is Henry Sy. We all know his story—truly rags to riches and respected throughout his career. I had the opportunity to meet him and was most impressed by his humility given all his accomplishments.

RVT: What do you think would you be doing if you weren't at your current profession?

JHR: I would most likely be a programmer. I appreciate the logic involved and enjoy solving problems.

RVT: What are you passionate about?

JHR: While not yet a passion, I find myself increasingly interested in education for the masses. This is the only way to improve our country and raise our standard of living.

RVT: If you could give one piece of advice to a potential business leader, what would it be?

Focus and determination are the best tools in your arsenal. It sounds corny but never give up – every time you fail is a step closer to success.

RVT: With all your responsibilities and tasks at hand, how do you relax and recharge?

JHR: I have a gym at home, and I use it regularly. It helps me to focus mentally and to work through issues I have to deal with.

RVT: What inspired you to join the Rotary Club of Manila?

JHR: Watching my Dad and meeting some of the members inspired me. They all seem to be having a great time while contributing to society. At the same time, it is a terrific network. The ability to connect with your Rotarian brothers to further your goals is an invaluable resource.

RVT: And how does it feel to be a second-generation Rotarian—your father, Jackie Rodriguez, being a former RCM President?

JHR: I am proud of my father and his accomplishments in Rotary. I appreciate his legacy within the club and recognize my role, as his son and a second-generation Rotarian, in upholding and supporting his programs.