Marvin's success formula

MANILA, Philippines - Marvin Agustin proves the wisdom in Confucius’ words: “Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

A successful actor and businessman, Marvin makes movies, shoots TV shows, produces concerts and runs restaurants like there’s nothing to it, and with lots of time to spare for family, fun and future plans.

By next month, Marvin and his partners will open in Cebu City the ninth Sumo Sam, with four more on the way by the year’s end. The six-year-old casual dining restaurant brand that serves a fusion of Asian cuisine opened its eight branch just a few weeks back.

As many already know, Marvin was discovered while waiting tables in a restaurant before show business opened its doors for him. His passion for the food industry stems from knowing first-hand the kind of dining experience customers look for. He said that Sumo Sam’s success and that of the other restaurants he runs is hinged on good service and warm hospitality, as well as delicious food that are reasonably priced. “Always give people more than what they expect. Go the extra mile,” he reminds his staff during weekly meetings.

Marvin also co-owns John and Yoko, Mr. Kurosawa, Comrade, Johnny Chow and a forthcoming Japanese buffet restaurant at The Fort. The restaurateur took up a culinary course to better understand his business. To promote his restaurants, he sets up meetings with clients and visits all the branches as much as he can.

Meanwhile, as concert producer via Futuretainment, Marvin is into his fifth big show this year. After bringing to Manila Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, Miley Cyrus and 30 Seconds to Mars comes Black Eyed Peas at the Mall of Asia Concert grounds on Oct. 25. 

Said to be one of the last concerts of the band, the Black Eyed Peas show here has been attracting even concertgoers from Hong Kong, Macau and other Asian countries; especially since so far, Manila and Seoul are the only stops in the region for the world-renowned band. “The company slogan of Futuretainment is to bring happiness to Filipinos. I am a big fan of new music and new acts that’s why we aim to bring to the country only the hottest acts,” Marvin said.

If plans push through, Futuretainment will produce a big local concert by Valentine next year and release its first movie after that. Marvin is especially excited with the second plan because he wants to make films that Filipinos would be proud of and ones that would make money at the box-office, too.

Though obviously busy with his many business ventures, Marvin has not forgotten his first love, acting. His movie Ikaw Ang Pag-ibig, written and directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya, is currently showing and many who have seen it say that Marvin’s portrayal of a man on his death bed could win for him an award.

Asked how he has seemingly acquired the Midas Touch, Marvin unselfishly gave out his secret. “Do what you love, give it your all and success will follow.”