From left to right” Tan, Anero, Rimando, and Teretit
The International Women’s Month has become a propitious time for celebrating women for their courage and influence in many spheres of life. They are “the hand that rocks the cradle”—and rocks the world—as they post extraordinary triumphs in their professions while nurturing their families at home.
This imagery of empowered women is not lost on Golden Haven, the developer of the country’s most beautiful memorial parks. Here, Golden Haven pays tribute to seven women from the executive suite who continue to make inroads in their careers.
Estrellita Tan
Estrellita Tan, chief financial officer of Golden Haven, has managed to balance a productive work life with the fulfilling role of being a mother to four children. It takes true character to manage all the hats she had to wear, but she did so with grace, finding the energy to multitask and serve as a role model for those around her. Tan says: “Be outstanding. Despite the many challenges we encounter in our journey, we have the power to do incredible and great things.”
Emelia Lustado
Emelia Lustado, Golden Haven division head for Visayas and Mindanao, has been with the Villar company for 28 years now. An industrial engineer by trade, Lustado is also a mother of two who “appreciates people who have a positive outlook in life.” For Lustado, success is defined as not giving up: “Even if it takes years to reach your goal, persistence is key if you want success.”
Analyn Anero
Analyn Anero, division head for Luzon, has been with Golden Haven for decades now. She believes that quiet and humble leadership can take one far, and that passion and drive must fuel every woman’s life: “Don’t be afraid to do what you want; keep fighting for your dreams.”
Maria Renee Regala
Maria Renee Regala, head of Golden Haven’s IT Department, believes that flexibility and balance have become the key to a successful career as she manages different roles. “Success for me is when you maximize your potential. Know yourself and know your worth. Do not let others look down on you,” she says.
Kate Cator
Kate Cator’s approach to leadership is one that is rooted in giving and nurturing. The CNC and admin head of Golden Haven says: “My advice for women who lead or aspire to lead: love your flock. Leadership is not about the title and position; leadership is about influence.”
Joan Rimando
Joan Rimando, the HR head of Golden Haven, says discipline, hard work and determination helped her build a career, starting in a research consultancy, a top university and today, in Golden Haven. She believes that women should not limit themselves: “Don’t let anyone define who you are and what you can do. Many people will have opinions about what you should do and when, but only you can define what is right for you. Follow your path.”
Miles Teretit
Miles Teretit, the chief accountant at Golden Haven, loves sports, plants and traveling. She also knows how to work hard and play hard. For her, success is the opportunity to do what you love and inspire others: “Be yourself and do what makes you happy. Pray and be thankful.”