Great leaders do not always command attention with loud voices; they inspire through steady action, principled decisions, and unwavering dedication. Their true measure lies not only in the results they achieve, but in the culture, they cultivate, the people they empower, and the legacy they leave for generations to come.
This year’s Entrepreneur of the Year, Mr. Daniel Ong, President and CEO of Treasure Island Industrial Corporation, embodies this rare form of leadership. Quiet in demeanor but resolute in conviction, Daniel has transformed a family enterprise into a diversified, values-driven corporation. He did not inherit privilege, he earned his place through humility, discipline, and a deep sense of stewardship. Leading by example, he works alongside his team, guiding with integrity, and shaping a company grounded in people, sustainability, and enduring principles.
Founded in 1951 by Daniel’s grandfather, Ong Lian Siong, Treasure Island Industrial Corporation began as a chemical products company producing denatured alcohol, lacquers, thinners, and adhesives. Over the decades, the company expanded into small kitchen appliances under Kyowa, flexible packaging under IPAK, and architectural coatings under Island Paints-a brand Daniel and his brother built from the ground up. Today, the company is recognized for its innovation, product quality, and professional governance, fostering a workforce empowered through clear structures, strategic direction, and a culture of excellence.
Daniel’s entrepreneurial journey began not with inheritance, but with responsibility. Motivated by a challenge from his father, “If you can grow the business, you will receive a management fee,” he embraced the opportunity to prove himself. Grounded in his Christian faith, Daniel views the company as entrusted, not owned. “We are only stewards,” he says. “God entrusted this to us so we can pass on the right values to the next generation.” This philosophy guides every strategic decision: invest in people, govern with transparency, and build for sustainability.
Among his proudest achievements is the creation and growth of Island Paints. While his brother led production, Daniel managed finance and sales, gradually earning customer trust in a competitive market. Under his leadership, the brand has become a respected name in the Philippines, and abroad, demonstrating that careful strategy, perseverance, and a commitment to quality can turn vision into enduring impact.
Daniel’s leadership has been tested by adversity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he ensured employees continued to receive 60% of their salaries for five months when work was disrupted. In 2023, after a fire destroyed one of the chemical plants, he immediately oversaw rebuilding to sustain operations and meet market demand. Perhaps the most delicate challenge, however, was guiding the transition from the second to the third generation of family leadership. By implementing a Family Constitution, establishing a working board, and introducing independent directors, Daniel balanced family dynamics with business needs, demonstrating patience, humility, and steadfast vision.
Beyond business growth, Daniel consistently demonstrates stewardship and empathy. He invests in people, nurtures a culture of trust, and ensures the enterprise creates value not only for shareholders, but also for employees, customers, and communities. His philosophy is clear: “Starting strong is good, but finishing well is what truly matters.”
Entrepreneurship, for Daniel Ong, is more than generating profit; it is a responsibility: to employees, the next generation, and to God. By building a family enterprise that is sustainable, principled, and people-centered, he exemplifies the highest standards of leadership. Daniel Ong stands out not only for what he has built, but for how he has built it with integrity, consistency, and enduring values-making him a deserving Entrepreneur of the Year.
