This March, Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, commemorates National Women’s Month by celebrating the success of Filipina entrepreneurs in the Philippines.

According to the Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs (MIWE) 2018, opportunities for women to succeed in the Philippines are abound. The country ranks first in Women’s Advancement Outcomes with strong female representation in business leaders, and an equal inclination for both men and women to engage in entrepreneurial activity. In fact, the Philippines is one of only three countries worldwide where the number of established business owners among women is higher than that of men [1].

This growth in the number of female business leaders and entrepreneurs in the Philippines is mirrored in the growing e-commerce scene, as more women opt to start their own businesses online. In 2017, Shopee saw a 158% increase in the number of female sellers on boarded compared to 2016. Of the female sellers on boarded last year, 50% are Preferred Sellers – a title given to sellers who have attained commendable shop ratings and have displayed excellent customer service.

“We are proud to recognize and celebrate the success of Filipina entrepreneurs who have displayed outstanding business acumen and strength of character. Shopee remains committed to supporting local entrepreneurs in the Philippines, and we look forward to seeing more women take the step towards entrepreneurship by building their businesses online,” Agatha Soh, Head of Regional Marketing of Shopee.

In celebration of Filipina entrepreneurs in the month of March, Shopee presents the stories of 3 inspiring women who chose e-commerce as a way to delve into entrepreneurship and build a successful career.

Rhea Kristine Dumo – Martipaps Gift Shop

For Shopee seller Rhea Kristine Dumo, a small capital did not deter her from starting an online business. With just P2,000, Dumo started her online store and managed the business on her own – from sourcing products, to coordinating with buyers and packing orders – all while taking care of her daughter as a stay-at-home mom. By selling a variety of toys and gifts for children, Dumo was able to buy her own house at the age of 28, and more importantly, spend more time with her daughter. “That’s one thing that money can’t buy but Shopee can give – freedom to manage my own time.” said Dumo. Rhea now employs five full-time employees and two part-time student employees to manage Martipaps Gift Shop.

Arcel Monnnette Mangubat – Arcelmangubat

25-year-old Arcel Monnette Mangubat chose to sell online as a way for her to pay for her wedding, start a family and attain long-term financial stability. As a first-time entrepreneur, Mangubat chose to start her business selling women’s apparel on an e-commerce platform in order to reach a greater number of customers and easily scale up her business. “The convenience and security provided by Shopee, along with its large customer base, allowed us to grow the business and eventually buy a motorcycle, build a house, and fund our wedding. We are very thankful for Shopee,” said Mangubat.

Melanie Sta. Maria – Makeupholics

Owner of the Shopee shop Makeupholics, Melanie Sta. Maria, witnessed key improvements in her business since she joining the platform in 2015. Already an established seller on other online platforms, Melanie joined Shopee to take advantage of the in-app logistics system to easily manage her inventories and marketing campaigns. With around 1,200 orders per month, Melanie successfully grew her business and was able to comfortably provide for her family. “Not only has Shopee provided me with a secure platform to grow my business, it has also helped me achieve my dream of purchasing a car for my family.” Sta. Maria shared.

Download the Shopee app for free on Google Play and App Store. To learn more about Shopee, please visit www.shopee.ph.

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