In the bustling streets of Manila during the 1940s, a young woman named Maria Socorro “Coring” Ramos dared to dream of a country where books were within everyone’s reach. That dream, born from resilience and a love of reading, became National Book Store, the largest bookstore chain in the Philippines.
Humble Beginnings
Socorro Ramos grew up in Santa Cruz, Laguna, in a family that valued hard work and perseverance. After finishing high school, she worked as a shopgirl in a small bookstore. It was there that she met José Ramos, her future husband, and together they opened a modest stall on Escolta Street in 1940.
But their journey was far from smooth. During World War II, Japanese soldiers banned many of the books they sold. Instead of giving up, the couple adapted, selling candies, slippers, and soap to survive. After the war, they rebuilt, only to face another setback when a fire destroyed their store. Each time, they started again, stronger than before.
Building a Legacy
By the 1950s, National Book Store had relocated to Avenida Rizal, steadily growing into a hub for affordable books and school supplies. Ramos believed that education was the key to opportunity, and she made sure her shelves carried not just textbooks but also novels, magazines, and stationery that fueled both learning and creativity.
Her vision was simple yet revolutionary: make books accessible to every Filipino household. That mission resonated deeply in a country where literacy was a gateway to progress.
Nanay Coring’s Philosophy
Known affectionately as Nanay Coring, Ramos embodied resilience and humility. She often said that success was not about luck but about hard work, persistence, and faith. Even as her empire expanded, she remained hands-on, checking store displays, talking to customers, and mentoring employees.
Her leadership style was rooted in empathy. She treated her staff like family, instilling values of honesty and service. This culture became the backbone of National Book Store’s longevity.
Adapting to the Digital Era
As the world shifted toward e-commerce and digital learning, National Book Store embraced change while honoring its heritage. The company launched an online store and delivery services, ensuring that students and readers could access books and supplies from anywhere in the country.
It also expanded into digital platforms, offering e-books and online resources to meet the needs of a new generation of learners. Despite the rise of global giants like Amazon and Shopee, National Book Store remains a trusted local brand, balancing tradition with innovation.
Entrepreneurship Learnings from Nanay Coring
Her journey offers timeless lessons for entrepreneurs:
- Adaptability is survival. When books were banned during wartime, she pivoted to selling everyday goods. Flexibility kept the business alive.
- Resilience builds empires. Fires, wars, and setbacks didn’t stop her. Each failure was met with determination to rebuild.
- Purpose drives longevity. Her mission wasn’t just profit; it was to make education accessible. That higher calling gave her brand cultural weight.
- Hands-on leadership matters. Even as the company grew, she stayed close to operations, ensuring quality and customer connection.
- Balance tradition with innovation. By embracing e-commerce while maintaining the warmth of physical stores, National Book Store continues to thrive.
Today, National Book Store is more than just a retail chain; it’s a cultural institution. Generations of Filipinos recall buying their first school supplies, novels, or art materials from its aisles. For many, it was the place where dreams began: the first dictionary, the first sketchpad, the first novel that sparked imagination.
At over 100 years old, Socorro Ramos remains a symbol of tenacity and vision, proving that entrepreneurship is not just about profit but about purpose. Her story reminds us that even in the face of war, fire, and hardship, a steadfast belief in education can build a legacy that outlives its founder.
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