Abenell De Pedro – CSR, Regional Officer

Hi, I am Abenell. My friends call me Ace. Why Ace? Too far from your real name? This is a common question that I normally get from people I just met. The story behind was when my father decided to name my 2 older siblings King and Queenie, similar to the deck of cards. Since I’m the youngest, they nicknamed me Ace.

I’m a college undergraduate. I took up BS in Business Administration (Major in Marketing Management) through the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) created through the initiative of the Philippines Commission on Higher Education. ETEEAP is a comprehensive educational assessment program at the tertiary level that recognises, accredits and gives equivalencies to knowledge, skills, attitudes and values gained by individuals from relevant work. It is implemented through deputised higher education institutions that shall award the appropriate college degree. At the moment, I have some subjects needed to finish and meet the terms.

At the early age of 17, I got my first part time job within the fast food industry. It was then followed by other food chains since my parents couldn’t send me to college anymore after my mother was diagnosed with Leukaemia. This difficulty motivated me to look for better opportunities to sustain my needs. At 19, I got my first full time job in a FEC (Family Entertainment Center) as a Customer Service Attendant. With hard work and determination, I got the permanent status and also given the opportunity to be promoted to a higher position as a store supervisor at 21. It is a fact here in the Philippines that if you are not a graduate of any college degree, it’s hard to get a promotion and excel more in your job. But I’m so fortunate that the company has given me the opportunity to do so despite of the common notion.

At 25, I got the managerial position to my surprise. I thought it was the end of the road, but I was wrong. As they say “if a window of opportunity appears, don’t pull down the shade”. In 2014, I was challenged to handle Visayas-Mindanao operations (7 store locations). I encountered a lot of pressure, some ups and downs, even self-doubt, but my determination to succeed surmounted above everything and I managed to overcome those. At present, I’m still holding the Regional Officer position and currently handling 5 store locations for about 6 years now.

With 15 years of experience in a customer service industry, I realised some important keys on how to sustain the fluidity of a company. Valuing the customer should be a mission. Genuine Care to customers must be present. Finest service must be provided, as well as good communication, team work, and creating a fun environment will be rewarded if you are determined to go the extra mile.

One of my major responsibilities is to ensure proper monitoring of the store over-all performance evaluation composed of store sales performance, arcade machine pay-outs and performance, collection/audit reports, marketing efficiency, and seeking potential new locations). With hard work, patience, perseverance and the support of my team and superiors, I was able to overcome the challenges.

I have experienced a lot of multitasking and I was always attentive to details. I’m always interested to explore new things and acquire additional knowledge for my personal and career growth. I also organise efficient flow in day-to-day operations through my location visit and audits. Firmness in imposing company standard operating procedures is always a challenge but also a rewarding experience of your hard work once you see that everything is followed smoothly.

I also do employee relations, hiring, interview and training. For me, maturity and professionalism are two vital aspects that you need in dealing with employees. You must continuously motivate them to keep their performance always in tip-top shape.

Over the past 15 years, I gained so many experiences that made me who I am now as a person but I still want to continue to learn and grow. I’m still excited to challenge myself and grasp more knowledge. These are some of the reasons why I seek extra part time work as a Virtual Assistant. I believe that this is a good platform and avenue to gain income during this time of Corona Virus pandemic where most companies were really affected and uncertain including the amusement industry which I’m in.

I always wanted to be a good example and hopefully inspire other people who always doubted themselves that being a college undergraduate is a hindrance towards achieving better opportunities, promotion and can still make a difference. As long as you have the right mind-set, patience, determination, faith, and especially hard work, then nothing is impossible. Always keep the right values like respect, kindness, integrity, and always be humble once you achieved your goals. Lastly, always appreciate and always remember all the people who help you in your journey. Be grateful all the time and smile.

I’m looking forward in working with you and helping you achieve your goals and succeed.

For a copy of Abenell’s resume please click here.