In the Philippines, Dominic Cabrera Francisco, a 20-year-old entrepreneur and CEO of Francisco Motor Corporation, is leading a transformation in the jeepney industry. Since its founding in 1947, the Francisco Jeepney has been a symbol of resilience and creativity, born from surplus military jeeps after World War II. Jorge Francisco together with his brothers Anastacio and Fernando Francisco, with just 200 pesos, turned a painting shop into a thriving automotive manufacturer.
Currently a student specializing in Sustainability at Enderun Colleges, Francisco began his journey by homeschooling at age 15 to better support his family’s business. His dedication to the jeepney industry is fueled by personal interactions with operators and commuters, particularly during the government’s Public Transportation Modernization Program (PTMP). “Modernization is essential,” he states, “but it must be done correctly to avoid leaving operators drowning in debt.”
He adds, “Many individuals have become ambassadors for our nation, seizing opportunities thanks to their fathers who were jeepney drivers. These inspiring stories have sparked a movement. I am proud to contribute to nation-building by advocating for sustainable, high-quality public transportation that uplifts the lives of jeepney operators and drivers. This is not just my duty; it’s a responsibility I embrace.”
Francisco advocates for responsible modernization, emphasizing affordability and accessibility as key components. He believes that by partnering with financial institutions, his company can offer sustainable and cost-effective solutions to jeepney operators. “We’re creating an ecosystem for electric vehicles that ultimately aims for a cleaner environment,” he explains.
Transitioning into the role of CEO has not been without its challenges. However, Francisco chose to focus on building a cohesive team that aligns with the company’s vision, fostering a collaborative work environment. His approach to leadership is rooted in continuous learning, inspired by the mentorship of his parents. “I treat every day as an opportunity to absorb knowledge,” he shares. This mindset drives him to leverage his platform for meaningful change, particularly in climate action and social equity within public transportation.
Francisco chose Enderun Colleges for its supportive community and hands-on learning. He values his professors’ guidance and balances academic responsibilities with leadership roles, maintaining a top GPA while actively participating in initiatives. His project, “DOMENG,” a full electric owner-type jeepney, started as a business idea in his Opportunity Seeking class with Mr. Ryan Morales has won the Best Innovative Ride Award at the World Trade Center on June 7, 2024.
Looking ahead, Francisco envisions an integrated public transportation system that addresses the unique challenges in the Philippines. His aspirations include developing innovative flying vehicles to connect islands and showcasing his commitment to forward-thinking solutions.
As a young leader, Dominic Cabrera Francisco exemplifies the potential of blending tradition with modern innovation. His journey is just beginning, and with a legacy like his, the future of Philippine transportation looks promising. Through his efforts, he honors his family’s heritage and paves the way for a more sustainable and efficient public transport system for all Filipinos.
