AFTER the downfall of the flower shop that he initially co-owned, Island Touch by Philip owner Philip Canuto said he lost it all.
“I had nothing left. I was broke with no money. The only thing left in me was my skill and the hope that I might still be able to recover from all the losses,” Canuto said.
It was not just the business that went bankrupt, but the relationships involved in the business were totally broken due to a series of betrayals and swindling partners, he said.
As if the closure of the business was not enough to endanger his future, Canuto’s visa was also jeopardized.
Canuto said he was at ground level and on his knees praying everyday when he found a friend, Rose Yoshimoto, who invested in his talents and helped him once again.
“I am grateful to this person who put her trust in me and helped me establish what is now Island Touch by Philip,” he said.
A one-man contingent
When Island Touch by Philip finally opened, Canuto was by himself in managing and running the business.
He did the flower arrangements, marketing by visiting clients, and was the one servicing customers, delivering and picking up products, and planning and decorating events.
“I was by myself for several years. I had to do the marketing by visiting each client every single day. I serve walk–in customers. I clean the shop. I did everything that needs to be done to run the business. I have nobody else,” he said.
He recalled a time when he tried to get help by hiring one staff who he eventually learned was stealing from the shop.
“My trust was broken and I just decided to run the business by myself,” he said.
But soon his hard work paid off as former clients looked for him and continued doing business with him.
“People know who I am. I have been true to them, and I have never harmed anyone. They know how I work,” he said.
He said his former customers came back while he gained more loyal customers.
Big establishments such as the former Best Sunshine Casino, concessioners at the Duty Free Shop in Garapan and hotels started consistently buying flowers from him and availing themselves of his eventdecoration services.
“All my hard work paid off. I took care of these people. I valued each customer that I talk to,” he said.
Blessings continue to pour in his life that now he has also become a permanent resident of the U.S.
From a small stall in Susupe, he now occupies a building nearby the Mobil Station in Susupe.
Island Touch by Philip is one of the best event and party decorating services on the island.
His shop is full of flowers, decorations, chocolates, teddy bears and everything needed for a date night, wedding, funeral and all other special events.
Heart full of gratitude
Canuto is thankful for his friends, customers and the community members who voted for him for Best of the Marianas, as well as hiswife, Ana Maria Quitugua Canuto.
“I did not even expect to be nominated. I am just busy working and doing my best in what I do,” he said.
He is encouraging community members who are in their lowest point in life, got betrayed or are experiencing poverty to never give up on their dreams.
“Whatever it is you are going through, it’s temporary. Get back up, continue working hard and remain humble,” he said.
His advice to first–time entrepreneurs is to not give up when they encounter hardships.
“It is hard to start but just continue your hard work, it will pay off. Never start a business you are not knowledgeable about because you are taking a lot of risk. Lastly, put God first in everything you do and everything will follow,” he said.
