TNT Tropang Giga center Chris Javier understands the risk of starting a new business now that there is an economic predicament in the country due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But the University of the East product knew what he loves to do. He had so much heart that he took the leap of faith.
Last July, the 27-year-old Javier opened the "Top Boss Auto Garage" – an auto shop that specializes in repair, and upgrade of suspension for sports utility vehicles or SUV cars in Biñan, Laguna.
“I took the risk kasi auto shop business naman marami din ang nagpapa-repair, madami ang off-road, SUV. Madami kasi tayong kalsada na matagtag, kaya gusto ko magkaroon ng riding comfort ang mga naka-SUV,” said Javier.
The former UAAP stalwart said his interest in opening a business got a boost when he got the dealership of Australia-based company Pedders Suspension and Brake.
Javier’s auto shop also offers Saber Off-Road accessories, and he is also a licensed dealer of the BF Ceramic Tint.
Prior to this business venture, Javier said he understands a thing or two about vehicles since he’s already the supplier of oils and lubricants to one of the major bus line companies in the country.
“Mahilig na din talaga ako sa sasakyan. Also, noon pa naman I always think of the future. Ang basketball – sabi nga ng marami – hindi naman pang matagalan talaga,” said Javier, who joined the PBA in 2016 after Magnolia selected him in the second round of the Rookie Draft.
“You just got to start somewhere, or start something. Take the risk, but you better think of better, or good business na papasukin,” added Javier.
Some of Javier’s clients are fellow PBA players, including NLEX shooting guard Jericho Cruz, who had a top-up cover for his pickup, while onetime Blackwater teammate Roy Sumang had his wife’s car tint at the auto shop.
Javier, who is on TNT’s injured list but hopes to join the team in the "bubble" in Pampanga, said he is a "hands-on" owner as he spends time at the auto shop, which has 10 employees, which include four tint specialists, four mechanics and two at the office.
“Of course, if you love what your doing walang nakaka-pagod. Parang basketball, mahal natin yan e, babalik at babalik tayo sa basketball. Kaya yung business dapat mahal at gusto mo din.”