Redefining the Philippine Real Estate Landscape: CEO Awards Honoree Edgar ‘Injap’ Sia II
In its first CEO Awards, The Business Manual gives recognition to the extraordinary rise of Injap Sia, Chairman of DoubleDragon Properties Corporation.
Edgar "Injap" Sia II, the Chairman of DoubleDragon Properties Corp., has etched his name in the annals of Philippine business history as a paradigm of entrepreneurial brilliance. Known as the youngest billionaire in the Philippines, Sia's journey from the founder of the Mang Inasal franchise to a real estate magnate encapsulates an incredible tale of vision, tenacity, and innovation. It is in recognition of these remarkable achievements that The Business Manual honors Injap Sia in its first CEO Awards.
The Journey to Becoming a Young Billionaire
Injap Sia's meteoric rise began with Mang Inasal, a fast-food restaurant chain that gained massive popularity across the Philippines. His strategic move to sell 70% of the franchise to Jollibee Food Corporation for PHP3 billion catapulted him into the billionaire club at the age of 34.
Forging a New Path in Real Estate
In 2012, Injap Sia took a bold step into the real estate industry by establishing DoubleDragon Properties Corp. in collaboration with Tony Tan Caktiong. DoubleDragon's vision was clear and ambitious: to amass 1 million square meters of leasable space by 2020. Under Sia's leadership, the company's flagship community mall chain, "CityMall," has become a dominant force in the Philippine community mall industry.
A Real Estate Powerhouse Emerges
DoubleDragon's rapid growth in the real estate sector is nothing short of phenomenal. With a market capitalization soaring to over USD2 billion in less than two years post-IPO, it ranks among the top five listed companies on the Philippine Stock Exchange. The corporation’s strategic focus on generating recurring rental income and acquiring property assets in prime locations has firmly established its stature.
Expanding Horizons with MerryMart
Injap Sia's acumen extends to the supermarket sector with MerryMart Consumer Corp., another testament to his business prowess. The supermarket chain has reported a significant profit increase and continues to expand its reach with an ambitious goal of 1,200 branches by 2030.
Commitment to Community and Social Responsibility
DoubleDragon's success is paralleled only by its commitment to CSR. The company's collaboration with the Jollibee Foundation has led to impactful initiatives such as the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program, feeding programs, scholarship funds, and infrastructure development in education.
Personal Philanthropy and Societal Impact
Injap Sia’s personal philanthropy complements his corporate endeavors. His notable contributions include the donation of educational and religious facilities, reconstruction of public spaces, and support for the Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm. Through his businesses, Sia has also been instrumental in creating over 30,000 job opportunities nationwide.
Awards and Honors
Sia's remarkable journey has been acknowledged through numerous awards, including the Urban Leadership Award, MVP Bossing Awards, and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. His influence and achievements have been recognized internationally, featuring him on prestigious lists like Asia’s Most Influential and the Gen. T List of the Philippines’ Most Promising Young Leaders.
