While most fresh graduates were busy adjusting to their first jobs during the pandemic, Laurence Angelo Ungson was quietly launching a business from his home—with just ₱5,000 in capital and a strong belief that the right idea could take off.
“My startup capital was less than ₱5,000. I just started with prayer, self-belief, and the courage to take risks,” Ungson tells Financial Adviser PH.
What began as a side hustle during his graveyard shift as a Senior Web Designer is now SoleProtect, a growing sneaker cleaning and restoration brand based in La Union. From offering basic cleaning to full restorations, Ungson has turned a pandemic-era idea into a profitable full-time business.
A Business Born From Cleanliness and Passion
Like many others during lockdown, Ungson became more conscious about hygiene. That, combined with his long-time love for sneakers, sparked the idea: why not offer a professional shoe cleaning service—something no one else in his province was doing?
“People didn’t know how to clean their shoes properly. Some even ruined them with DIY methods. And there were lots of sneakers with sole separation that needed restoration,” he explains.
Seeing both a personal pain point and a market gap, he began testing products and offering cleaning services to family and friends—right from home.
From Side Hustle to Street Cred
Armed with a few DIY kits and strong social media instincts, Ungson marketed his new brand online. Early feedback was promising, and soon enough, referrals began pouring in.
What made SoleProtect stand out? Aside from being the first of its kind in La Union, it offered convenient pick-up and delivery, plus customized care for rare sneakers—catering to a growing local sneakerhead community.
“When I saw other players expanding and opening branches in other areas, I knew this was serious,” he told Financial Adviser PH. “That’s when I started building a long-term plan.”
Scaling Up Without Selling Out
By January 2024, SoleProtect opened its first physical location—proof that the concept had staying power beyond just the pandemic.
Ungson credits the growth to:
- High-quality service and consistent results
- Effective staff training
- Creative promotions and online marketing
- A commitment to keep improving operations
From cleaning to full restoration work, the business has evolved into a one-stop shoe care destination.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Ungson’s journey proves that you don’t need a massive capital to start—just clarity, consistency, and the will to act.
“Don’t wait for the perfect moment or a big budget. Be resourceful. Find something you love and just begin. Most importantly—pray to God and keep showing up, even when it’s hard.”
Today, Laurence has left his IT job to focus on SoleProtect full-time. What started as a ₱5,000 hustle is now a growing brand with a loyal customer base and national ambitions.
