Engr. William Christopher ‘Wally’ U. Liu, Jr., chairman of the Primary Group of Builders, is a man shaped by failure, risk, and persistence. Looking back on his early years, he recalls losing money for three straight years. “But quitting? That never felt like an option,” he says. For him, success came from simply showing up every day and refusing to give up.
In the 1980s, while many entrepreneurs left the country during the economic crisis, Wally chose to stay in Cebu. With little capital and limited experience, he took on projects others avoided. When opportunities came in the Mactan Export Zone, he said yes—even without knowing exactly how to deliver. “We had no capital, no real experience, but we had gut feel,” he shares. That boldness led to a series of successful projects, many gained through word of mouth.
From a small construction firm, the Primary Group of Builders grew into a multi-industry company that helped shape Cebu’s development. Wally built his business on one clear principle: “Build to Last.”
Unlike others who chased opportunities in Manila, Wally stayed loyal to Cebu. He believes in growing local industries but also warns about overdevelopment. “Cebu is becoming too dense,” he says, stressing the need for balance and careful planning.
For Wally, mistakes are part of growth. “Mistakes are the best mentors,” he says. He encourages young entrepreneurs to take risks early and not wait until everything feels certain.
Despite his success, he keeps his philosophy simple: focus, hard work, innovation, resilience, and luck. “The more I practice, the luckier I get,” he adds.
Today, Wally’s legacy goes beyond buildings. It lives in the opportunities he created and the mindset he continues to inspire—proving that real success is built over time, with courage and purpose.
Discover the full story of Engr. Wally U. Liu and other inspiring leaders in The Freeman’s Men In Business Magazine, now available at National Bookstore.
This special issue highlights Cebu’s forward-thinking entrepreneurs and business leaders who continue to shape the local economy. Their stories show how they face challenges, adapt to change, and lead with purpose and resilience. More than building companies, they help create opportunities and support communities.
This edition celebrates their achievements while inspiring the next generation of Cebuano entrepreneurs.
You can also catch weekly snippets of Cebu’s Power Players and Rising Titans every Monday in The Freeman’s Business section. / JOB
