Apl.de.Ap and Jollibee brings langhap-sarap goodness to Kabalens

Aim High. I think this is one of  Allan Pineda aka Apl.de.Ap goals while growing up. Not only he is a successful rap artist and record producer today, but he's now an owner of Jollibee. Yep, you read it right! I was invited to travel all the way to Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga last Thursday to witness the opening of Apl.de.Ap's Jollibee branch. 

It was his dream to own Jollibee one day, and that day came when after all his hard work, trials, and life's challenges (I watched his life story in maalala mo kaya), his perseverance, patience and firm decision to succeed prevails. He is now an owner of Jollibee!

Apl.de.Ap has embarked on a new project, one that would bring langhap-sarap goodness closer to his fellow kabalen. He formally opened his very own Jollibee franchise store in Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga (along McArthur highway). 

The day before Jollibee officially opens (Feb 6), the Black Eyed Peas member, together with Jollibee Philippines President Joseph Tanbuntiong and Jollibee Regional Business Unit Head for North Luzon Kay So led the ribbon cutting and store blessing ceremonies.

“We are proud to welcome Apl.de.Ap into the Jollibee family as a franchise partner who not only shares in our commitment to reach more Filipino families and bring them together over great-tasting langhap-sarap food but also believes in helping other people through philanthropy works,” said Tanbuntiong.

My highlight of my day aside from seeing Apl.de.Ap for the first time was when I saw the biggest Champ I have ever seen in my life!!! Curious tuloy ako how they made it. And yes, they did the traditional cake burger cutting too.

The CHAMP!!! They're real, by the way, hehe!

“I’m very excited to open my very own Jollibee store, right in my home province. I’ve always wanted to have a Jollibee franchise because it’s a product I grew up with. Opening my first Jollibee store in Pampanga is a dream come true. Since I was a young boy, I always pointed at Jollibee and my mom would say, "Anak we need this money for your siblings also so next time na lang". And then one day, she finally took me into Jollibee and I think I lost my mind! I thought: "Oh my God, did this happen?" And now, it's just my dream. I wanted to have a Jollibee store to create employment and I thought it would be the most stable thing that could help out others." said The Voice Philippines coach who admits that he sees the franchise not just as a business opportunity but as a way to create jobs for his fellow kabalens.

Jollibee Dau Mabalacat is the fast-food chain’s 33rd outlet in Pampanga. It features the latest store concept designed to make the bonding experience more enjoyable for families and friends alike. The opening of the new store is in line with the brand’s goal to reach out to more families across the country, and currently has more than 850 branches nationwide.

I think Apl.de.Ap's story is an inspiration to everyone to never stop dreaming, aim high, and have a goal and desire to reach for that dream. Even if you think it is impossible. No one should stop you.

Congratulations Apl.de.Ap on the opening of your very own Jollibee!