STAR Rtn. Evaristo “Junjie” Vazquez: Passionate About Things That are Built to Last

Inspired by his desire to break boundaries and advance the state of the construction industry in the Philippines, STAR Rtn. Junjie Vazquez did something remarkable—he pioneered the concrete polishing system in the country and founded J.VAZ.CO in 2010. His passion for the floor polishing industry continued to shine. In 2016, STAR Rtn. Junjie established Floorstone Concrete Surface Center, a one-stop-shop for various concrete flatwork, polishing and restoration product lines which gave the smaller industry players an easy access to imported supplies. Remarkably, STAR Rtn. Junjie did not only address gaps in the marketplace and expand the market choices. Besides delivering quality products and industry expertise, his passion extends beyond the tangible as he pursues to uplift the lives of his company stakeholders and employees. Get to know more about this entrepreneurial pioneer and his passion for things that are built to last.

Rhea Vitto Tabora (RVT): How was it to be the pioneer in the concrete polishing system in the Philippines?

Junjie Vazquez (JV): As a pioneer in the concrete polishing system of the construction industry, it is a great privilege and responsibility on its own, more so, when you have products and services you are confident of. My previous years of experience from our family business formed in me a good understanding and a broad feel of the construction industry. The world we live in is volatile, changing relentlessly. I knew the only way to keep up was to adapt, adjust, be agile and advance, which naturally led me to the concrete polishing system which further expanded to a wider range of services. To address damaged floors, the birth of concrete flatworks and restoration came into being. Floorstone is an extension of our company that provides construction chemicals, equipment and technology directly to consumers. One of the main reasons behind all my pursuits is my advocacy to protect the industry from the rampant mindset of shortcuts. It is my sincere desire to mend the negative image the construction industry is associated with by raising our very own standards on how business should be conducted in our country. Therefore, I would say that being a pioneer is a title that inspires me to push beyond boundaries—it represents my passion for things that are built to last. I see a potential, together with our stakeholders, to overcome challenges as pioneers with a shared vision to advance and uplift each other for the love of country and the belief that we deserve better.

RVT: I read that you worked for your family’s various businesses since your teenage years. What motivated you to venture on your own at a time when people your age were already preparing for retirement?

JV: Even at a younger age, my parents were already pioneers in the gravel and sand industry. There were only a few companies then, and the business was created from scratch. With only my parents working, they ingrained in us the value of work and the importance of staying productive by asking us for help, even with the smallest tasks. Because of my upbringing, staying curious and driven feel very natural—I look at life like a playground with different opportunities at every corner. Whether good or bad, things happen for a reason—sometimes it’s fate, sometimes it’s family. I always try to find motivation in the situation.

RVT: What moments in the history of J.VAZ.CO. made you feel most proud?

JV: Other than the accolades and awards my company has received, I think what made me most proud was seeing my company grow from just merely ten people to over 200 now. Knowing that I've made a difference in people’s lives and helping them establish a better livelihood by creating income and being able to put up houses for themselves is really something I take pride in. Of course, being known as a pioneer of the industry, not just nationally, but also in international conferences, is also something I consider a milestone for JVAZCO.

RVT: Name a CEO whom you admire, and why?

JV: I admire Bobby Castillo of EEI Corporation and see him as a phoenix that rose from the ashes. He is full of life and his career shows that as well. He’s not an engineer, but he diligently studies to explore how an ailing company can be salvaged. He was the one who told Ms. Yuchengco that they can turn their company around, and true enough, EEI is a big company today that speaks for itself.

RVT: What is your ultimate dream?

JV: There is only so much I can handle. Before, I would readily take on every single thing, but now, I am trying to focus more on what matters. We always emphasize our values as a company for a reason. By elevating and evolving the construction industry, we aim to make a difference through our craft and in the people that we work with. I believe in investing in our people to make a real difference in their lives, personally and professionally. This all goes back to my love of family and country—by allowing them to discover dignity through hard work, and giving them strong values to stand up for.

RVT: What gives you comfort during these uncertain times?

JV: My family, which has always been my source of comfort and inspiration. Connecting with the spiritual side of myself also brings a new perspective every time.

RVT: What do you enjoy doing most with your free time?

JV: I love watching new movies or TV series on Netflix.

RVT: If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring entrepreneur, what would it be?

JV: Don’t lose focus. Do one thing at a time. Life is short. Learn to balance work, family and spirituality.

RVT: What are three things about you that would surprise your fellow Rotarians?

JV: It’s the other way around; I am actually surprised I am here. I need to understand and feel what my place is in the Rotary. What is surprising is the new connections that I’ve been making since.

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

JV: I was extended an invitation to join by Chito, my good high school buddy and the current President of the club. I figured it’s about time I meet more people.