Women Can: Ayala Land celebrates exceptional women in the organization

Written by: Amy R. Remo 

In the Philippines, women have made significant strides across various aspects of society.

Enjoying nearly equal rights and status as men, Filipinas can hold top positions in politics, corporate boardrooms, educational institutions, and society, as they are accorded access to numerous, diverse opportunities. In fact, the Philippines boasts a long history of influential, empowered female leaders, including two presidents, who have played key roles in shaping the nation. 

Given the gender parity and inclusivity that Filipinas enjoy, the Philippines today stands out as the most gender-equal society in Asia and ranks 16th among 146 countries assessed based on the latest World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Gender Gap Index report (GGGR).

Diversity and inclusivity

Such equality is aptly reflected in one of the country’s top corporations – Ayala Land Inc., which empowers women to excel in roles and segments once dominated by men. 

Diversity and inclusivity are well ingrained in its DNA, reflected in how this property giant continues to give high regard to capacity—harnessing skills and talents to turn them into areas of competence regardless of gender. From operations, property management to aviation, Ayala Land has been providing opportunities for women—nurturing their talents and giving them the necessary resources to thrive.

Isabel Sagun, chief human resources officer at Ayala Land, emphasized the company’s dedication to diversity, equality, and inclusion. 

“Our aspiration is to have a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace by incorporating diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) in all people processes from recruitment to retirement, making our hiring practices more inclusive, and promoting pay equity. We also want to enhance our Talent Development Programs and Mentorship Programs for underrepresented employees,” Sagun said.

Shattering gender stereotypes

And it seems that Ayala Land has been highly successful on this front given the long line of female leaders that have since taken the helm across various departments. Shattering gender stereotypes, Ayala Land today is spearheaded by a woman leader, whose exceptional achievements and notable credentials speak volumes of her prowess and expertise. 

One of the company’s notable success stories is that of Ma. Asuncion “Toni” Estrella Bordador, a first officer pilot with AirSWIFT. Starting her career as a flight attendant, Bordador pursued her passion for flying much later in life, becoming a licensed pilot at the age of 33. Now at 49, Bordador exemplifies passion, perseverance and determination, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. And she intends to keep flying for as long as she can.

“In the cockpit, gender has no wingspan. It’s about skill, dedication and a shared passion for aviation,” Bordador said.

Mary France Llorin, an electrical engineer at Ayala Property Management Corp. (APMC), rose from the ranks. She started as an outsourced testing and commissioning officer and is now working as an engineering operations manager. Her message to fellow Filipinas is simple yet empowering — “Know your goals, magsikap ng buong puso without being binded by gender or class, let your actions speak for themselves, and always strive to do your best.”

Anaceta Ilagan, cement plant head at Makati Development Corp. (MDC), embraces the challenges of the construction industry, leading the team with a more hands-on approach that brings her a different sense of fulfillment, and a passion for making a difference not only in the company, but in the communities that benefit from their work.

“For women seeking unconventional careers, I encourage you to embrace your passions and pursue your goals without fear. Refuse to let societal norms or expectations limit your potential,” Ilagan shared.

Elaine Saldivar, an aircraft mechanic at AirSWIFT, and Col. Elma delos Santos, security head at Ayala Center Cebu have similarly defied gender norms in their roles, earning respect and recognition for their expertise and proficiency. Now thriving in what are regarded as male-dominated fields, both Saldivar and Santos showed that gender should never be a hindrance to pursuing one’s passion and succeeding in any field.

Beyond Saldivar and Santos, there are so many more others who have also made significant contributions, in their own way, to their respective departments in Ayala Land.

What is clear is that Ayala Land values people and their capacities, potential and expertise, regardless of gender. Believing in the power of diversity and inclusion, Ayala Land is no doubt creating a more sustainable future for all.

Know more about the stories of these five women this month via Ayala Land’s Facebook page.

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