That original Mango-ong post was a long read, so I decided to split the post into two. If you're looking for the MO/franchise scam post, you're on the right track. Read on.
I am a Mango-ong addict. It's official. I have it once a week. More if I run errands at SM, where you are most likely to find a kiosk or cart.
A few months ago, while searching for franchise information on Mango-ong, I came across a Facebook page. I liked the page (as I love the brand) and recently got this in my inbox:
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| BEWARE! Mango-ong is currently not open for Franchise. Don't be duped. |
Two weeks ago, I learned from BG, a good friend and ex-coworker (one I haven't been in touch with for years - he isn't on Facebook) that they actually own this gem of a business. WOW. We spent two hours on the phone discussing how he and his wife AG came up with the idea (they also own
Chicharon Espesyal) and how they prayed for Mango-ong. And APPARENTLY, THEY HAVE NOT OFFERED FRANCHISING PACKAGES FOR MANGOONG.
So who owns the Mango-ong account on Facebook, pretending to be Mango-ong AND offering the business for franchise?
I asked BG about that and about the letter I had received. He already had a name. And was quick to send me articles about this man posing as legit owner of Mango-ong. Man, if this poser owned Mango-ong, then why does my friend own and operate all Mango-ong branches in leading malls?
Apparently, this guy (not the same name on the letter above, but a certain JAC) has been a business copycat since who-knows-when. If you google for his name, you will find him in the middle of lawsuits for pretending to be this and that, and duping honest Filipinos of their hard-earned money. It is the same MO (modus operandi) he is now doing with Mango-ong. To date, there have been a number of so-called franchisees calling the legit Mango-ong office, asking for help because the poser can no longer be found. Having charged the would-be franchisee a sum of P400,000 for franchise fees and start-up stock/ equipment, he no longer shows up after receiving the lump sum.
And because BG and his original Mango-ong DOES NOT and currently has no plans to offer the business as franchise, these "investors" are at a loss. And as much as BG would want to help out these victims, clearly, he is also a victim here, what with this JAC guy using the Mango-ong business to his advantage and to the disadvantage of hapless Filipinos.
Already, legit Mango-ong stalls around the metro and nearby provinces have put up disclaimers denouncing the claim that they have offered the business for franchise. And for the general public to be aware of the ongoing scam... A scam that is well-thought of and well-planned! Apparently, would-be investors are even shown a commissary and a mango farm!
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| See that piece of paper? That disclaimer says they are NOT open for franchise. |
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| The actual notice posted on all kiosks and carts of Mango-ong. Potential investors, BEWARE! |
I had asked BG about the likelihood of having competitors (as is with any booming Filipino business, competitors usually appear within the first 3 months of operation), and he actually doesn't mind the competition. But for a business whose name and concept have both been used maliciously to dupe clueless individuals? Then it is cause for concern, and of course, a lawsuit. Mind you, the Mango-ong poser JAC uses the same trade name AND logo, as well as kiosk design, concept, etc. What can be the motive behind the act of using the same trade name, logo and concept BUT to fool people into thinking you are the real thing.
Well people, I am sorry to say, it is NOT the real thing. Nope, there is only one Mango-ong.
EDIT: Mango-ong IPO Decision here. Don't be duped!
May I ask you readers to share this information on your social media accounts, blog, etc. such that we get the word out? Thank you.
http://www.mango-ong.com
Official Mango-ong Page on Facebook
Follow Mango-ong on Twitter
TRACK BACK: Read my review on Mango-ong HERE.
