MAGNA Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. (Magna Prime) has been blazing a trail in the Philippine construction chemical industry via its cost-effective, inventive, and environment-friendly products and methodologies—thanks to its visionary founder Derrick Tan whose innovativeness and exemplary ability to build and sustain a dynamic business led to its constant success.
Starting small by merely distributing tire batteries and lubricants in 2001, he has grown Magna Prime as an established and awarded company through its vast array of products including waterproofing, concrete flooring, finishing, tiling, protective coatings, admixtures, innovative paints, sealants and adhesives—all under the three brands, namely, Buildrite Construction Chemicals, Sinclair Paint, and Max Bond Adhesive Solutions.
The first Filipino-owned construction chemical firm in the country boasts of its “Lakbayanihan” culture that is deeply rooted in honoring God first, loving the family and, then working with honor in order to serve others—all for His glory. Its daily operations are infused with a sense of fun and learning that inspire its people and management to face challenges creatively and own their work towards the company’s success and growth.
“Leadership at Magna Prime is considered an act of servitude, grounded in humility and wisdom, driving us to innovate with an entrepreneurial spirit while staying resilient in the face of challenges,” said the president and chief executive officer.
At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the firm debuted its marketing campaign “Magtanong Para Sigurado,” which aided many people in finding and using the right construction chemical products and methodologies. It, likewise, popularized the solution-centric approach to solving construction problems.
In the past years, Magna Prime has grown exponentially on the back of its nearly 500 employees. Through its constant innovation, it has given more opportunities for its members to learn and gain wisdom as it enters a new era.
“Oftentimes, leaders are selfish about their time. We think that our time and ideas are more valuable than others. When you’re in the position of power, you think that you’re always right. Leaders should listen more and talk less. Because we are called to be servant leaders and not authoritarian leaders. We should have the humility to listen in order to learn from them,” Tan noted.
Continued leadership
GUIDED by the sustainability principle, Magna Prime recognizes the global context of its industry by constantly enhancing its strategies with a global perspective. This means that not only keeping abreast of international trends and standards but also seeking opportunities for international collaboration and expansion to help improve the industry and the environment.
Along with these initiatives is its alliance with government institutions to launch its own Magna Prime campus. This project seeks to establish a learning hub that not only serves as a center for excellence in construction chemicals but also contributes to the national agenda of elevating industry standards. The firm is also set to widen its educational modules, learning facilities, and programs to enhance the knowledge and skills of not just of the present contractors and applicators but for anyone and future industry practitioners.
“We aim to provide comprehensive, practical, and cutting-edge education that aligns with the current and future needs of the construction industry. Therefore, we are mindful of the broader impact of our actions, ensuring that we contribute positively to the advancement of the industry, of the country, and of the planet,” he said.
With his dedication to build a flourishing business that is responsible to educate the stakeholders, sense of camaraderie and care for the planet, Tan recently bagged the award of Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship for Large Scale Enterprise at the 42nd Agora Awards held recently at the Shangri-La Fort in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.
“This award means a lot for Magna Prime. It reassures us that we’re doing the right thing in terms of our marketing efforts and the overall approach of the company towards our customers and employees. It proves that we’re on the right path,” he stressed.