Jayson Jay Luzadas, better known as Boss Toyo, recently showcased his soon-to-open museum to the public. Known for his thriving business, Pinoy Pawnstars, which he co-founded with his partner Jhoy Maldo, Boss Toyo has built a reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. His journey began with a simple idea inspired by watching similar ventures abroad: “Nakita ko na buy and sell, ‘i-try lang natin na bumili lang tayo, iba-buy and sell natin.’ So namili na ako nang namili. Pinublish ko na siya sa Facebook at nag-open for public ako,” he shared.
Using profits from his gold trading business as initial capital, Boss Toyo steadily expanded his collection. Despite numerous offers to buy his items, he has held on to his acquisitions, viewing them as long-term investments. “Kumbaga tanim lang po ako ng tanim sa ngayon. Pag-ani, madali na po ‘yan, darating na tayo dun,” he explained. For him, these collections are more than just luxury items; they represent a future investment, especially for his children.
Boss Toyo’s journey wasn’t always smooth. From a young age, he faced significant personal challenges, including addiction and a troubled family background. He recalls a pivotal moment from his youth: “Bata pa lang ako, nakatambay ako dun sa may nag-iinuman, tapos in-approach ako ng isa sa mga kapatid kong tunay na hindi ko pa alam na kapatid ko siya. Directly sinabi niya, ‘kuya kita.'” This revelation set him on a path to uncover more about his family and himself.
Struggling with addiction led him down a dark path, where he resorted to stealing to support his habits. “Nag-turn out to be an addict at an early age, benta lahat ng gamit, kupit dito, kuha ng gamit doon, pagnanakaw para may pangtustos sa bisyo,” he admitted. His life took a dangerous turn, and he even faced life-threatening situations, including being stabbed multiple times. However, a severe dengue infection served as a wake-up call, prompting him to seek change.
A pivotal job as a delivery boy, earning just P90 a day, helped him value hard work and money. “Magba-bike ka from 7am hanggang gabi, pagod na pagod ka nun. Dun na ako natuto, nagpahalaga na rin ako sa pera,” he said.
Today, while he acknowledges he is still struggling, Boss Toyo uses this as motivation. “Ganun kasi ‘yung ginagawa kong drive sa sarili ko e, every day, laban,” he shared. His advice to those feeling hopeless is to focus on the future and break free from destructive habits: “Ilabas mo ‘yung sarili mo sa bilog mo na nakasanayan. Tumalikod ka na sa mga maling ginagawa, ang sunod dun, tamang landas na patungo sa kung saan mo gustong pumunta.”
With his museum set to open soon, featuring valuable memorabilia from famous personalities, Boss Toyo’s dream is becoming a reality. He joyfully announced, “Pag bukas neto magiging open for public na xa me entrance pero di mahal!! Araw araw pde na kayo magbenta dahil araw araw me magaassess na! Open for Fieldtrip din po tayo. Si Toyo toh mah men Genggeng.”
Congratulations, Boss Toyo!