There’s a common adage about family businesses: the first generation builds it, the second maintains it, and the third destroys it. CEO Maret Follosco-Bautista of CL Follosco Group humorously referenced this saying during our May 16, 2024, meeting. When our professor, Ms. Pia Manalastas, sought volunteers to host the inaugural CEO Talk series, I eagerly took on the challenge.
CL Follosco Group
Ms. Maret, who now heads the second generation of her family’s business, is the CEO of CL Follosco Group, a multifaceted organization engaged in trading, manufacturing, and finance. She detailed the company’s beginnings, which date back to 1966, with a focus on agricultural products. As the business grew, it diversified into water-related sectors, including irrigation systems, water tanks, swimming pools, and water treatment systems. This expansion ultimately paved the way for the company’s foray into food-related industries, where water plays a critical role in food processing.
Steward leadership
Before diving into her presentation, Ms. Maret engaged the class in a discussion about the concept of “stewardship” and how it contrasts with servant leadership. While many, including myself, were familiar with the principles of servant leadership, the idea of steward leadership was a new revelation. Ms. Maret clarified that both leadership styles share a common ethical foundation. However, steward leadership sets itself apart by emphasizing the importance of focusing on the future and managing resources to benefit upcoming generations. This insight led me to reconsider my leadership approach, stressing the need to leave a lasting legacy and ensure that initiatives are sustainable for future leaders. The challenge then becomes: how does one achieve this?
The CLFG way
For the CL Follosco Group, a deep understanding of their origins and achievements forms the foundation of their business identity. Their core businesses are defined by what they excel at and the resources they have cultivated over the years. Rather than focusing on accumulating wealth, the company emphasizes the efficient use of resources and aims for sustainable growth by investing in future potential. The CL Follosco Group’s commitment to its heritage and core values has resulted in a distinct legacy known as “the CLFG way.” This legacy is characterized by a focus on stewardship rather than mere ownership. The company views itself as a caretaker of its business, responsible for managing and preserving it for future generations.
In essence, the CL Follosco Group’s philosophy represents a full-circle moment. By reflecting on who they are and staying true to their purpose, they create a continuous cycle of growth and sustainability. They prepare for today’s challenges and strategize for tomorrow’s uncertainties. This long-term perspective allows them to maintain their relevance and purpose, ensuring that the business remains a positive force in the industry for years. Through this approach, they aim to leave a lasting legacy that transcends generations, embodying the true spirit of stewardship and sustainable business practices.
Night of insights
The evening was one of profound insight, as attendees had the chance to engage personally with Ms. Maret Follosco-Bautista and her team. Ms. Maret extended an open invitation to her team, encouraging them to consider pursuing MBA studies. She also emphasized the company’s commitment to investing in its people and empowering them to spearhead innovative practices and seize new opportunities.
One staff member spoke highly of Ms. Maret, noting the value and respect they feel within the business. This sentiment was further reflected in the company’s practice of allowing employees to train the next generation of family members who will eventually take over the business. CL Follosco Group recognizes the importance of building a loyal and capable team to ensure the business’s continuity and sustainability for future generations, thereby creating a lasting legacy through the people they influence.
Ms. Maret’s advocacy for local artisans also left a profound impression. Her stylish black and red woven cardigan, purchased directly from local weavers, reflects her support for these artisans, who spend hours crafting each piece but receive meager compensation. Inspired by her dedication, her advocacy for fair compensation and support for local crafts has inspired many, including me, to be more intentional in supporting local businesses. This is one of Ms. Maret’s many lasting impacts on those she meets.
The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. She wrote this reflection paper for her class on Trends and Issues in Business and Management: CEO Series. She can be reached at crislet_bantegui@dlsu.edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
