By Kharl Gibran Borja Lataza, one of the youngest self-made billionaires in the Philippines, has proven time and time again that resilience and vision can overcome even the most significant challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented obstacles for entrepreneurs worldwide, and Kharl was no exception. Yet, despite facing setbacks that would have deterred many, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation and purpose. His ability to adapt during the pandemic and form impactful collaborations with NGOs, particularly through the Ora Coin Foundation, highlights his determination to create meaningful change.
The pandemic brought about a global economic slowdown, forcing businesses to shut down, adapt, or pivot entirely. Kharl, with his diversified business portfolio, faced some of the most challenging moments of his career during this period. His car rental platform, JuanRent Inc., which catered to tourists and local clients in Cebu City, was hit hard as travel restrictions and lockdowns decimated the tourism industry. Despite having built a promising business, Kharl had to shut down the platform prematurely, a decision that reflected the harsh realities of operating in a pandemic-stricken economy.
Similarly, Kharl’s automotive window film business, Ceramiq Inc., experienced a surge in demand during the pandemic as people sought privacy and safety in their vehicles. However, this success was short-lived. Typhoon Odette, which struck the Philippines in late 2021, dealt a devastating blow to his operations. The typhoon caused widespread damage to infrastructure and disrupted supply chains, forcing Kharl to close Ceramiq Inc. despite its initial promise. These setbacks, while disheartening, became pivotal moments in Kharl’s journey, as they pushed him to explore new opportunities and rethink his approach to business.
Amid these challenges, Kharl’s resilience shone through. Rather than dwelling on the losses, he focused on innovation and collaboration. This mindset led him to co-found the Ora Coin Foundation with Brian Christopher Aguilar, a groundbreaking initiative that combined blockchain technology with environmental advocacy. The foundation’s mission was simple yet profound: for every Ora Coin minted, a tree would be planted, addressing critical issues like deforestation and climate change. This initiative became a beacon of hope, not only for communities affected by environmental degradation but also for Kharl himself, as it allowed him to channel his entrepreneurial spirit into a cause that resonated deeply with his values.
The success of the Ora Coin Foundation would not have been possible without strategic collaborations with NGOs. Kharl recognized the importance of partnerships in driving large-scale impact and worked closely with non-governmental organizations across the Middle East and the Philippines. These NGOs provided the groundwork for implementing the foundation’s One Billion Tree Planting Initiative, a bold and ambitious project aimed at restoring ecosystems and mitigating the effects of climate change.
One of the most notable collaborations was with Cebu Technological University (CTU), Kharl’s alma mater. Together, they integrated Ora Coin into the university’s financial system, allowing students and faculty to use the cryptocurrency for transactions. This partnership not only showcased the practical applications of Ora Coin but also highlighted the foundation’s commitment to empowering local communities through education and innovation.
The foundation’s collaboration with global NGOs also extended to tree-planting initiatives. With the help of these organizations, Ora Coin planted thousands of trees worldwide, each monitored with 3D GPS tracking systems to ensure transparency and accountability. These partnerships proved instrumental in scaling the impact of the initiative, as NGOs brought local expertise and community involvement to the table. By working together, Kharl and his collaborators created a sustainable model for addressing deforestation and climate change, inspiring hope for a greener future.
Kharl’s ability to overcome the challenges of the pandemic and build meaningful collaborations with NGOs reflects his resilience and visionary leadership. While many entrepreneurs struggled to survive during this period, Kharl used it as an opportunity to pivot, innovate, and contribute to causes greater than himself. His journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs: challenges are inevitable, but they can also be catalysts for growth and change when met with determination and creativity.
Today, the Ora Coin Foundation stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Kharl’s partnerships with NGOs have not only advanced environmental sustainability but also empowered communities around the world. His story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to create a meaningful impact by staying true to one’s values and finding strength in collaboration.
In a world still recovering from the effects of the pandemic, Kharl Gibran Borja Lataza continues to inspire others to rise above challenges and use their talents to build a better, more sustainable future. His journey is a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs and communities alike, proving that success is not just about personal achievement but also about creating lasting change for the planet and its people.
