For forty years, Chowking has been part of the Filipino story — from family gatherings over siopao and halo-halo, late-night meals shared with friends, to comforting moments during life’s busiest seasons.
But beyond its iconic dishes and familiar flavors, Chowking has also been a place where countless Filipinos have discovered something deeper: a space to grow, to belong, and to build a future for the families they love.
Among those whose lives were transformed by Chowking’s culture of puso are John David Urbi and Fatima “Timi” Abutog — two inspiring stories of how purpose, perseverance, and people-centered leadership create lasting impact.
John’s Journey: From Dishwasher to Leader
When John joined Chowking in 2006 as a working student at the dishwashing station, he had one simple goal — to support his family. He never imagined that the same kitchen where he scrubbed dishes would one day lead him to manage entire teams.
Over the years, John rose from dishwasher to cook, to restaurant manager, and now proudly serves as Area Manager — proof that with humility, curiosity, and hard work, remarkable growth is possible.
“Everything I do is always for the customer,” John shared. “But what truly made a difference were the leaders who believed in me. May mga leaders who influenced me na nag-stick talaga — sila ang nagbigay ng impact sa’kin.”
He credits one of his former managers for mentoring him into leadership, instilling the value of lifting others up. “Results are important,” John reflected, “pero ang mas importante, nagdadagdag ka ng value sa iba.”
Now, as a leader himself, John pays that forward — mentoring teammates and reminding them, “Be open to learnings. Every role, every experience teaches you something that lasts.”
Timi’s Story: Leaving, Returning, and Rediscovering Purpose
For Fatima “Timi” Abutog, Chowking was where she first learned to lead. She joined as a management trainee in 2011, quickly became a store manager, and later transitioned into restaurant systems and business center roles.
But like many journeys, hers took an unexpected turn — she left Chowking to explore other opportunities. Yet, that time away brought clarity. “In other workplaces, I felt like just another number,” she said. “That’s when I realized what made Chowking special.”
When she returned, she found a more innovative Chowking — one that had evolved but never lost its heart. “The humility to learn, the customer focus, the collaboration, and the fun — hindi nagbago,” she shared with a smile.
Coming back reignited her passion to lead with purpose, to build connections that go beyond work, and to nurture a team culture rooted in care and collaboration.
A Culture with “Puso”
Despite their different paths, both John and Timi point to the same defining element of their success — Chowking’s culture of heart.
“May puso, no matter what,” said Timi.
For John, that culture gave him confidence to believe in himself. “May mga leaders who influenced me na nag-stick talaga, kasi pinaniwala nila ako na kaya ko.”
This is what defines the Chowking Way — a culture that believes in people before results, where growth is nurtured, and where every small win at work translates into joy at home.
Beyond Food, Toward Belonging
Chowking may be known for its signature blend of Chinese and Filipino flavors, but its true legacy lies in the lives it touches — from families sharing meals to employees discovering purpose and belonging.
As John put it, “We touch lives every day. Chowking will always be part of Filipino moments.”
And as Timi reflected, “It’s a place where you can be more than your role. Dito, you can grow, you can be heard, and you can be something more.”
A Legacy of Memories and Meaning
As Chowking celebrates 40 years, stories like John’s and Timi’s remind us what truly sets the brand apart. Beyond food and flavors, Chowking’s real recipe for longevity lies in the people who bring it to life every day — those who serve with passion, lead with humility, and give every bowl, bun, and smile a touch of heart.
“John and Timi’s stories remind us that beyond the food we serve, Chowking is also about the people who bring our brand to life,” said Chowking President Ken Lingan. “Their journeys reflect the heart of our culture — one that values growth, humility, and connection. It’s what makes Chowking a space to belong, not just a place to work.”
