Even as it ramps up automation and digitization of its operations, Ninja Van Philippines remains committed to supporting personnel growth and development. Everyday across the archipelago, some 8,000 Ninjas – majority of whom are riders – carry out the company’s mission to make hassle-free deliveries possible for Filipinos.
Ninja Van riders in particular brave a host of weather and road conditions everyday. As these riders drive crucial last mile operations, Ninja Van Philippines seeks to empower and help them realize their full potential. From creating opportunities for growth within the organization to supporting each rider’s personal dreams, two riders share how Ninja Van Philippines has put them on the road to success.
A rider at heart
Noriel Operiano is one of Ninja Van’s many rider success stories. Now a station officer in Palawan, Noriel applied as a rider to support his wife and newborn son. At that time, he did not have his own motorcycle and borrowed his father-in-law’s to make his first deliveries.
With his first few paychecks, Noriel got his own motorcycle and paid for it in installments. Luck seemed to favor him too. Shortly after being regularized, however, he also won another motorcycle from a gas company raffle. He was able to sell his extra motorcycle and buy a plot of land for a family home. This was one of the many times he saw the fruits of his own efforts.
His latest big achievement is being promoted. “Bukas, Sir ka na,” said Noriel, sharing what was said to him on that fateful day. In just five years, Noriel became a station officer.
Asked about adjusting to his new role, Noriel shared that respect is important. He leans on his roots as a rider and understands what it is like to be on the road, highly respecting his riders’ hustle. In turn, they respect him as well.
From time to time when there is a high volume of parcels, Noriel still dons his helmet and delivers parcels himself. Doing so reminds him of his humble beginnings and strengthens his belief that other riders can also achieve their own goals.
Full speed ahead towards bigger dreams
Johnell Magallanes will soon be celebrating his 5th year with Ninja Van Philippines as a rider in Mandaluyong. While he certainly acknowledges just how busy logistics can get, he remains upbeat and never fails to share his positive disposition to fellow riders throughout the hub. “Minsan, napakarami talaga ng parcels pero madami rin naman kaming mga riders na nagtutulungan talaga,” said Johnell.
Before riding for Ninja Van Philippines, Johnell went through many opportunities in the restaurant industry both here and abroad. Johnell now uses his knack for working with people to offer advice and counsel to his peers. His efforts were soon recognized by his station head, who nominated him for a year-end company award given to an employee who encourages, trains, and mentors colleagues to help them become successful in their own goals.
When asked if he had any messages for his colleagues and fellow riders, Johnell said “importante na maging magandang ehemplo para sa iba. Mahalin natin ang trabaho natin dahil ikaw rin ang makikinabang sa kasipagan mo.”
Today, Johnell continues to ride and hustle to help his kids achieve their dreams. “Malakas ang loob ko para sa dalawa kong anak. Malapit na din matapos sa pag-aaral ang isa sa kanila. Simula nung pumanaw ang wife ko dahil sa cancer, naging focus ko na ang mga anak ko. Gusto ko silang tulungan makamit ang mga pangarap nila sa buhay,” Johnell shared.
While raising his kids alone has its own struggles, Johnell says that being a Ninja Van rider has allowed him to fulfill his role as a solo parent who can be there for his kids and provide for their needs. For Johnell, doing his job well is also his way of giving back to his colleagues who put their trust in him.
Ninja Van Philippines continues to shine the spotlight on its riders and more of its unsung heroes who hustle hard to ensure quick and hassle-free deliveries across the country.
