16/08/2021
OUR STORY
Proud migrants of Batangas shortly before the liberation in 1944, Oniong and Odeng Malabanan built their lives together in the corner house between K-1st and Judge Damian Jimenez in Kamuning. Raising nine children together, Oniong pursued his trading business in Old Manila, dealing with Chinese and Japanese traders in importing and selling canned sardines, industrial chemicals, and upholstery. He initiated the creation of the Philippine Banking Corporation together with his Tio Amboy Tapia, who was a Ramon Magsaysay awardee for rural banking. As majority stockholder, Oniong later invited Speaker Jose P. Laurel to become the Bank's chairman.
He was the patron of his relatives from Batangas, who wanted to try their luck in Manila. 89 K-1st was the default home base for those who wished to better their lives. He mentored them and invested in their start-up initiatives.
All his dreams were made possible with the help, support, and foresight of his wife, Odeng. Odeng was the heart of the home. Headstrong and spirited, she raised nine children while investing in real estate in the Kamuning area. Orphaned at the age of 11 because of the Japanese massacre in Tanauan, Batangas, she wasn’t able to attend a university like the rest of the family. It never held Odeng back. She was dedicated, resourceful, and determined.
The provincianos from Batangas became part of the Kamuning community. They were benefactors of the Sacred Heart Parish church, which was a few blocks away. Their children all grew up in the home where the O Place now stands. It is a testament to Oniong and Odeng’s bravery, dedication, strong faith in God, and sense of community.
Our family built the O Place to honor and give thanks to Oniong and Odeng. May the O Place inspire one and all to overcome adversity and be their best selves.
Welcome to the O Place. Where dreams are built and realized.
