Cellphone Republic Trading, a trusted name in gadgets and device repair, has become a go-to shop for tech enthusiasts and budget shoppers in the Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan City, Metro Manila. The store stands out not just for its extensive selection of brand-new and secondhand smartphones, tablets, and accessories, but also for its flexible payment options and strong commitment to customer safety.
The business is owned and operated by Davilyn Simon, whose inspiring journey began in Bulacan. Raised in a family that made ends meet through hard work—her father a tricycle driver and her mother a dressmaker—Davilyn learned the value of perseverance and generosity early on. “Don’t give up kahit anong challenge,” she shares, reflecting on lessons from her parents.
Davilyn started earning as a high school student, making ₱100 a day selling ready-to-wear clothes at her aunt’s stall. This early experience fostered her entrepreneurial spirit and a sense of responsibility, motivating her to help not just her family but even her cousins. “Kung ano yung natanggap mong blessing, -ishare mo,” she says, emphasizing the importance of sharing and community.
After studying Computer Technician at Bulacan State University, she used her savings to venture into business instead of working abroad. Her first foray was in selling T-shirts and blouses in Greenhills, then expanding to cellphone accessories, and eventually to gadgets. The business grew, but not without setbacks. At one point, losses nearly wiped out her savings, forcing her to regroup and start over.
Despite these challenges, Davilyn persisted, finding new opportunities such as airline ticketing and diversifying her product offerings. By 2014, she had grown her operations and, in 2021, established a permanent store in Greenhills. Today, Cellphone Republic Trading is known for its customer-friendly approach, offering cash, GCash, Maya, bank transfers, and installment plans, as well as secure delivery methods with a “No advance deposit” policy.
Davilyn’s journey has not been without risks. She recalls instances of scams and fraudulent transactions, but her resolve remained strong. “Pag wala kang inaapakang tao, binabalik sa’yo ng Itaas,” she says, emphasizing the value of integrity in business.
What she finds most rewarding is the ability to help others—not just financially, but by sharing knowledge and skills. “Kapag yung skills mo kaya mong itulong sa ibang tao para umasenso rin,” she notes, seeing her success as a means to lift others up.
Looking ahead, Davilyn plans to expand Cellphone Republic Trading and invest further in social media platforms, aiming to make gadget shopping safer and more accessible nationwide. Her story is a testament to how determination, resilience, and a willingness to start again can lead from ₱100 a day to building a respected business in one of Metro Manila’s most competitive retail hubs.
