In today’s world, where global skepticism and pervasive cynicism are fueled by fake news, genuine rags-to-riches stories, though not rare, are increasingly hard to believe. With everything and everyone capable of being manufactured, created, and packaged for public consumption, distinguishing between genuine individuals and imposters has become a challenge.

Yet, occasionally, a true story of overcoming struggles and achieving triumph emerges. Kono Salinas is one such story. A 34-year-old businessman from Biñan, Laguna, Kono has risen from the depths of poverty and desolation.

From a young age, Kono’s parents instilled in him the value of business and giving back. His father worked for the Department of Transportation, and his mother was an entrepreneurial housewife. They often reminded him that not everyone he helped would reciprocate if the roles were reversed, advising, “Magtira ka para sa sarili mo.”

He began with a simple buy-and-sell business, dealing in cars. Over time, this venture grew, and he diversified into farming and agriculture, particularly during the pandemic. Today, he owns F2M Agricultural Business, encompassing a piggery, poultry, vegetable, cattle, and rice farms. When asked why he ventured into agriculture, he explained, “I saw that it was very promising because it provides man’s most basic need – food. Even with the pandemic, people still needed to eat.”

Tall, dark, and handsome, Kono could easily be mistaken for an actor. When asked who he would like to portray him in a movie about his life, he laughed, revealing his dimples, and said, “Alden Richards.”

Kono’s future as a famous businessman and philanthropist remains to be seen. For now, he is dedicated to building his agri-business, putting food on people’s tables, providing jobs for his loyal employees, and continuing to inspire and help those in his hometown and beyond.