Story - Humbling Experience

HUMBLING EXPERIENCE
By: Mr. Lawrence Tan, Founder
April 17, 2008

The year was 2001, because of the political instability and the economic hardship in the Philippines; I decided to migrate back to Hong Kong. In my mind what sort of business can I put up there to support me and my family? I did some preliminary study and the closest thing that I can think of is something related to the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), as there are more than 200,000 Filipinos working in Hong Kong, Macau and Singapore as domestic helpers.

So I went back and started an entertainment company with some friends. Initially I was in film showing or exhibition, and my first movie from VIVA Films (VIVA Entertainment) is entitled “ABAKADA INA” starring famous Filipino actor Albert Martinez and actress Lorna Tolentino. It was not easy doing this business, but definitely exciting. I did not make any money out of this, but this project surely has propelled me to the limelight of show business.

I also expanded my business to include publishing, advertising and special events which let me meet a lot of corporate and showbiz personalities. Aside from VIVA, I was also doing business with ABS-CBN (Star Cinema) and Regal Films. These 3 are the top entertainment companies in the Philippines.

Later I ventured into video and music products distribution at the invitation of the VIVA management which proves to be one of the most disastrous decisions I have ever made. I was thrown into the world of video & music piracy syndicates without me having any knowledge and experience on how they operate.

To make the long story short, I trusted the wrong people. I was eventually arrested by the Hong Kong Customs for the suspicion of engaging in the distribution of infringing or pirated Filipino entertainment products.

In spite of the more than 10 prosecuting witnesses and only one defending me, I was acquitted after 2 years of grueling court trial in front of a Hong Kong English judge. I can still remember that day in 2005 when the verdict was read. The judge said he doesn’t trust me, but there are not enough evidences to convict me guilty beyond reasonable doubt of all the offenses I was charged with.

I personally know who the real people behind the said piracy are. I am sure some will still have doubts about me regarding this incident. But I have learned my lessons well not to trust anyone easily especially if business is concerned.

It is truly a humbling experience that I will never forget.