Absorbing Light, Creating Life Absorbing Light, Creating LifeM Y P E R S O N A L J O U R N E Y O F G R O W T HL E A C . H E R N A N D E Z P M D P - M M C B AT C H 3 7 A N I L E A C . H E R N A N D E Z P M D P - M M C B AT C H 3 7 A N IPERSONAL STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLANPERSONAL STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLANPERSONAL STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLANPERSONAL STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Table of Contents My Life so far03 My Areas for Development09 My Environment13 My Mission19 My Vision22 Personal Changes26 My Values29 My Beliefs31 Moving Towards my vision33 Aligning with my vision36 Making it happen42
In its most basic form, growth happens in a quiet, mostly unseen way. Like photosynthesis transforms light into life, this same process of change in humans occurs in a similar yet more complex manner through the interaction between our environment, our ability to withstand difficulty, and our sense of purpose. The things and people that surround us give us their influence, while the challenges we face give us their strength, and by slowly combining these two, we have developed the energy we need to move forward in life. Many aspects of my life have followed this same path of slowly gathering light and growing into a person with meaning. From my beginnings as nothing, to the many significant accomplishments in my life, I have always followed the path of absorbing the light around me and using it to develop me. My Life so far The Quiet Process of Becoming Page 03
The defining moment of my life was when I was accepted to the University of the Philippines. Coming from a poor family and then being accepted into one of the best universities in the country felt like a dream come true and an affirmation of all of the hard work that had gone into this accomplishment. This was not just my personal success but also the success of my family. This also symbolized a major change for me mentally and emotionally. I was the first member of my family to move away from the province to get a higher education. UP Diliman was not just my personal win, but a validation of the years of hard work and hope that my family has gone through. Peak Experiences: Moments of Light My academic journey represents some of my most significant peaks in terms of personal experiences where I observed the benefits of hard work slowly being rewarded with accomplishment. These accomplishments include being named Valedictorian for both Elementary and High School, which were important milestones that demonstrate my capacity to overcome obstacles and achieve great results at critical times. By achieving these honors, I proved to myself that I have the ability to succeed and perform at a high level, even with minimal support. These recognitions were not just a measure of academic excellence but also evidence of my commitment to honoring my vision, persevering through adversity, and fulfilling the promises made to me by others. Academic Achievements and Personal Excellence A Door Opens to New Horizons
My father is one of the people who inspired and motivated me to continue working toward my goals. I was born and raised in Floridablanca in Pampanga, in a large family of seven children. There was a limited number of resources found in our home, but we had the right values taught to us by our parents. My dad worked as a general service electrician at the US Navy office in Subic Bay for most of my childhood. He had a very simple belief: Roots of Strength and Sacrifice He was the only person providing for our family, so he made sure I and all of my siblings had the opportunity to go to school. Due to the sacrifices my father made, I have a strong sense of obligation and reason to fulfill his aspirations for me through achieving academic success, not only for myself but for the entire family as well. “Education is the greatest legacy I can give my children.” Page 05
My father's deep love and ability to sacrifice for me is epitomized in an extremely vivid memory from my childhood. As a young child about ten years old, I begged him to purchase a set of encyclopedias for me. My friends in school had collections of encyclopedias neatly showcased in their home, making them look like they were well prepared and knowledgeable; to me, these volumes showed that they were ready for a future filled with boundless opportunities. My father, however, did not have the money to treat himself to this luxury, and buying me theses encyclopedias was not an item that was on his priorities . He managed to find a way to get one for me despite this. A Defining Childhood Memory He purchased for me a singular title instead of an entire set of reference works: a single volume from an encyclopedia beginning with the letter 'P'. Although other people might view it as a poor substitute for a complete set, for me, however, the contents of that single volume were worth more than everything else that had ever been given to me. I cherished that book and read it cover to cover and learned everything I could about plants, the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines, Penguins and Planets. Of all the subjects described in detail in that reference work, the one topic that captured my imagination was Photosynthesis. A Single Book, A World of Knowledge Page 06
Interestingly, I do not fit the mold of the stereotypical "studious" or academically- oriented person. I was not among those students who spent countless hours absorbed in reading textbooks; rather, I was heavily social - organizing events, riding bikes with my friends, and going out to see people just to build connections. It was me who often created opportunities for people to experience and share together. Photosynthesis as a Life Philosophy At a young age, I discovered that plants were able to convert light to energy and thus create food for themselves as well as oxygen for us to breathe. As I now look back on my life, I see that just as plants have the ability to convert sunlight into energy and food, I have also been able to learn to do this. Through my lifelong experience of growing up with very few resources, I have become very resourceful in maximizing what is available. I have been able to grow as much food as I was able to grow at any point in my life. This is because I was able to think out of the box to find creative ways to produce food even with limited resources. The single book that I received from my father opened up my eyes to the possibilities I had as a human being, and the gesture of my father continues to serve as a reminder to me that the smallest amount of support that is given from the heart has the power to help someone achieve tremendous growth in their life.
My past experiences have shown me that in addition to having strong academic skills, there are also qualities that may not always be obvious, but which have the same degree of power, namely: resilience, adaptability, social intelligence, and intrinsic motivation. Like a plant, continued growth has been possible for me despite my environment being some of the less-than-ideal conditions I encountered throughout. Throughout my life thus far, I have experienced what I would call "photosynthesis" (in a metaphorical sense) when I have taken energy created by people who believe in me, transformed it into energy from every challenge I have faced and used that energy to become someone who could contribute significant value and/or meaning to others. And like the way plants always push themselves to grow upward, I am also always searching for more light and growing in that light, and one day becoming a source of that same light for others. Becoming a Source of Light Balance, Motivation, and Purpose Although I faced many difficulties, I was able to accomplish everything that I wanted. I studied very hard wherever and whenever it was needed, I kept myself engaged, and I attempted to always keep myself in balance. I had no intention of trying to be the best in the class; instead, I found my motivation was deeper. My family's sacrifices and my will to make them proud provided me with the purpose I needed to succeed. Strength Beyond Academics Page 08
My Areas for Development 12 For the most part of my life, I have held a quiet but strong conviction that if I put my mind and heart into something, I could achieve anything. This belief came from many small victories, such as accomplishments in school, doors opened, and achievements attained through what appeared to be the natural progression of things. Much like the majority of success, I believe success comes from not so much as the effort we put forth and the amount of struggle we face as it does from the lack of resistance we face along the way to success. The next phase of my career was working as a Research Officer at the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO Manila). During my time there, I was able to find fulfillment in a way I had not previously achieved. My work in research and investment allowed me to contribute to something much bigger than myself, and as a result, I developed my competencies and self-confidence over a period of nine years. Upon finishing my degree, I did not have trouble finding my place in the business world because I landed my first position as an administrative assistant for Johnson & Johnson Philippines. Johnson & Johnson is a global corporation, and working with them introduced me to the discipline and structure of a corporate setting. It was a very powerful experience because it taught me how to be responsible and professional. Over time, however, I found my job to be repetitive, and I began to quietly yearn for something more meaningful. Early Corporate Experience Finding My Purpose
Transition to Public Service My next career decision was influenced by a personal desire to be closer to my family, particularly my children. Consequently, I moved back to my province and continued my career in public service. This transition led me to NEDA (now known as DEPDEV). At NEDA, I was once again able to discover a new purpose in the work that I do. Initially employed as an entry-level economic development specialist, I steadily grew to become a Senior Economic Development Specialist through perseverance and diligence. Throughout my life, it appeared that with every new opportunity, I would achieve those goals I aspired toward. In retrospect, the majority of my goals were able to be achieved with minimal resistance. This pattern further confirmed my belief that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. Then came an occasion that created doubt about that belief. Once I felt competent enough to take on a supervisory role, I confidently submitted an application. I was confident that my years of experience, along with my hard work and strong effort, placed me in a position to be awarded the promotion. For the first time, I saw myself in that higher-level position. However, I did not get the promotion. The impact of this outcome was more profound than I had anticipated. This experience was the first time I had such a personal and direct failure, and I felt an intense sense of disappointment in both the outcome and myself. The confidence I had maintained through my career began to fade, as questions arose that had never crossed my mind before. Why wasnʼt it me? Was I insufficient? Had I been too confident in myself? This event created a turning point in my personal journey; what I had once thought to be a relatively straightforward path became much more complicated and, ultimately, much more humbling. The grip of failure has gone from being an abstract concept, something external to me, to a tangible, internal experience that is both felt in defeat and through a deeper, internal struggle of accountability. A Turning Point Page 10
Over time, I have come to realize that failure is an honest teacher for me. It has shown me that true growth is not only the product of your successes, but it often requires you to take a step back and reevaluate yourself; to recalibrate your vision and to rise again. The moment caused me to re- examine my own beliefs about leadership. Leadership is not a place one reaches because of the experiences gained; rather, it evolves over time with continued development. It requires more than just technical knowledge, but it requires emotional maturity, the ability to think strategically, and the willingness to influence others. It is essential to be humble and recognize that you can always improve; therefore, the most successful people in their careers will continuously seek opportunities to grow and learn from others. After experiencing that moment, I have identified a few specific competencies that I must intentionally develop. Although I'm technically skilled and committed to my work, I still need to build and strengthen my ability as a leader—this includes building a vision that inspires confidence, and then providing direction to our team in a clear manner. I also see the need to increase my focus on strategic thinking; understanding the bigger picture of our organization and linking my contributions to longer-term objectives. Leadership Reframed Reflection and Redefining Growth To me, it now seems that the experience I had with failure was not just a setback. I see it as a break that forced me to reflect and to challenge myself to grow in aspects of my life that success does not demand a challenge. What I learned in that moment was that not every effort will produce the outcome you desire. That being "ready" to produce results is not 100% about accepted knowledge and skill level, but rather, it is a combination of several other factors (timing, perspective and growth). Failure has not taken away from my skills. In fact, failure has brought to my attention some of the things I need to work on; such as patience, humility and an expanded definition of leadership. Page 11
Building Inner Strength and Collaborative Leadership Equally as important as identifying these competencies is learning how to develop emotional resilience and the ability to self- regulate. I realized when I experienced disappointment how much I rely on my accomplishments to define my self-worth. Moving forward, I want to develop a more consistent mindset that enables me to manage adversity, use it to learn, and maintain confidence through times of uncertainty. I acknowledge that I have to further develop my communication skills to express assertiveness and develop strong professional relationships across levels of the organization, as leadership is not developed in isolation; leadership is developed by means of connection, trust and collaboration. In order for me to progress, I must also be intentional regarding my access to resources and how I utilize them. Experience provides mentorship opportunities for me to access experienced leaders, to obtain guidance and perspective, and receive constructive feedback. Experiences and professional development programs will continue to enhance both my technical and interpersonal skill sets. I also see value in my expanding my professional networks—internally and externally—to leverage diversity and best practices from all over the public service sector. By being exposed to different perspectives, I will be able to expand my knowledge base and see challenges with a more comprehensive view. Mentorship and Expanding Perspective Continuous Learning and Self- Development Self-directed learning is also critical—reading, reflecting and developing my skills continuously will sustain my long-term growth. Trainings and capacity-buildings in different aspects, will assist me in developing the competencies necessary for sustained and enhanced performance. In summary, while the failures that I experienced have not diminished my goals, they have clarified them. The focus of my goals now is to be ready for the positions—not just in skill, but in character and leadership capacity. Like the photosynthetic process, this experience has been a source of growth for me: subtle, internal, and deeply nourishing. Growth Rooted in Reflection and Resilience “As I continue on my leadership path, I am renewed in my commitment to grow not only in opportunities, but also in readiness, purpose and the type of leadership that is earned through both success and reflection.” Purposeful Leadership Page 12
My Environment A Defining Chapter in My Professional Development At this point in my career, I find myself surrounded by opportunities for growth and development. One of the most prominent of these opportunities is my participation into the Public Management Development Program – Middle Managerʼs Class (PMDP-MMC) at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). This program has provided me with the tools necessary to be an effective leader in the public sector. It will also allow for me to obtain a Masterʼs degree in Development Management. Both of these accomplishments will provide me with a solid academic and professional foundation.
The Importance of Monitoring and Evaluation Along with traditional educational opportunities, I understand the importance of monitoring and evaluation as a tool to enhance the quality of my work in public service delivery. The direction that development work is headed toward more results-based methods of operation, provides me with the opportunity to continue to develop the skills necessary to help improve both my division at my office and policies, programs, and organizations based on evidence developed through monitoring and evaluating programs. Participating in specialized training in monitoring and evaluation will greatly improve my analytical and strategic skills. In addition, the increased speed of digital transformation in governance represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the creation of new and better ways of doing things in government. As a result, I see these developments as providing me with an ideal environment for my own personal and professional growth. My ability to self-direct my learning to digital technologies has already provided me with the chance to begin the process of moving towards modernized office processes. Developing capabilities in digital tools, managing data, and creating innovative solutions will allow not only for the increased effectiveness of the office, but for the establishment of my own role as a future-oriented leader capable of managing the ever-changing demands placed as development planner. The strength of future success will be evident through educational programs, professional training, and technological opportunities on which I will continue to build upon myself. To ensure I make the most of all these opportunities, I must intentionally approach education, training, and technology with commitment to continuous learning and improvement as well as self- discipline and dedication to myself and others. Embracing Digital Transformation for Growth Page 14
In addition to PMDP-MMC, I will actively seek out training, workshops, and practical implementation of the skills of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E). I will continue to align M&E best practices with my office's current major projects so that I can turn the knowledge I gained into productive application. Digital transformation is comprised of many parts, from rapidly developing new technology to changing how we work to meet the needs of our customers. I intend to increase my own knowledge base through self-directed study, participate in as many online courses related to digital transformation that I can locate, and experience firsthand, through experimentation, digital tools that will help me make improvements to my workflow and customer service capabilities. I will also begin advocating for small- scale, but beneficial examples of implementing digital solutions into the day-to-day operations of my office. Developing Digital Competence and Innovation Commitment to Transformational Learning through PMDP-MMC The PMDP-MMC Program should not only be viewed as an academic exercise but will be a transformational event in my career. I commit to being fully engaged in this process to create opportunities for real-time application of the concepts that I learn in PMDP-MMC by incorporating them into how I do daily business within my organization. Advancing Skills in Monitoring and Evaluation Practice Page 15
Reflective Leadership and Emerging Challenges Also critical to the development of my skills as a leader will be the ability to create a practice of reflecting on and integrating the lessons learned during my education, training and use of new technologies, with the goal of increasing my performance, enhancing my decision- making abilities and establishing a stronger presence as a leader. I face numerous challenges, caused primarily by the increased complexity and expectations of public sector governance on my time, energy and attention. Furthermore, balancing my academic obligations with my professional obligations and my home obligations could create stress if not managed correctly. Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes Secondly, an additional external threat/vulnerability is the ever-changing pace of transformation taking place at the rapid pace of technology and digital transformation. Without proactive measures taken to keep up with the latest developments and learning, there is a risk of falling behind in acquiring the appropriate skills required to operate in an increasingly innovative, data-driven environment. Organizational Constraints and Limitations Organizational barriers such as bureaucracy, limited resources, and resistance to change can all slow the speed of implementing ideas and initiatives. All these factors are typically beyond my direct control, but they can affect my ability to contribute in a timely and meaningful way. Overcoming Personal Barriers to Success Internally, I face personal barriers such as self-doubt, fear of failure and complacency that can stand in my way of being successful. However, while these barriers are personal to me, I know that they can be controlled and require effort to resolve. External factors such as the limitations of institutions and systemic barriers are situations in which I do not have full control. However, while my response to these issues (i.e., my mindset; my ability to prepare and adapt) is still something that I have influence over, my ability to respond will impact my contribution to the world. Page 16
Regarding my risk of falling behind in acquiring the technical and digital skills, I will practice lifelong learning, making time each week to develop those skills and stay current with the advances in technology and digital transformation. By using an open and willing to learn beyond my comfort zone mindset, I will be able to effectively navigate through the challenges ahead. To minimize the impact of the organizational barriers I have identified above, I will maximize those areas that I have the ability to influence by creating relationships with those with whom I work, developing collaboration, and communicating effectively with those in my organization. By using small successes to demonstrate the value of innovation, I will also contribute to a culture of improvement in my office. Building Collaboration and Driving Innovation 11 Proactive Time Management and Resilience To be effective in meeting the above-mentioned challenges, I must be proactive and resilient. Managing my time will play an important role in being able to effectively handle all my responsibilities. By setting clear priorities and being disciplined in my use of time, I will be able to effectively reach my goals in both my professional responsibilities and the initiatives toward personal growth. Commitment to Lifelong Learning Page 17
Above everything else, I will continue to work on developing my internal strength and resilience. I will view my failures as part of my personal growth experience and not as a detriment to my success. By developing confidence through self-awareness and preparedness, I will be better equipped to handle the uncertainty faced during my professional journey. Strengthening Inner Resilience and Confidence Lastly, I will seek the assistance of mentors, peers and professional networks to provide guidance, support and perspective. Growth is not a journey taken alone, and by working with others, I will be able to develop myself and be more effective in moving forward. Seeking Support Through Mentorship and Networks Page 18
He who has a why to live can bear almost any how. — Friedrich Nietzsche My Mission The foundation of my existence stems from the lives I have been entrusted to serve, the values I am expected to uphold, and the contributions I am to make in the world today. My life has a simple yet profound purpose; to grow with intention, to serve with integrity, and to uplift others through my life— personally and professionally.
As a wife, my purpose is to provide my spouse with strength, partnership, and understanding—to build a loving and engaging home, where mutual respect and purpose abound. I will strive to support my "partner" in every circumstance—from the easy moments to, more importantly, the times requiring my patience, sacrifice, and unwavering support. Purpose as a Mother and Role Model Purpose as a Wife and Life Partner Purpose as a Daughter and Sister As a mother, the depth of my purpose has increased. I am honor-bound to nurture not only my children but also develop their character, aspiration, and sense of possibility; my mission is to provide them with the foundation of values on which they will build their lives and contribute meaningfully to the society in which we live. Through my guidance of the children, I am continually reminded to continue growing myself, as I will set the example for my children—their first and most significant lessons—by the way I live my life. As a daughter and sister, my purpose is grounded in responsibility and gratitude. By honoring the sacrifices made by my parents, especially my late father, who instilled the value of education into my life, I am living with integrity and a sense of purpose. I strive to be a source of support for my entire family, especially to my aging mother. In doing so, I am reminded of my roots and the values I was taught. Page 20
As a government employee and in all service to my country, I am called to work for the advancement of inclusive, sustainable development through nation-building. It is my hope to develop policies, programs, and plans that serve people—not just as technical products—but rather, as a means to improve the quality of life for those who have been historically left behind. My ambition is to be a public servant whose work embodies the values of accountability, excellence, and creativity in creating systems that are responsive, fact-based, and forward-thinking. Commitment to Digital Transformation and Innovation Purpose as a Public Servant Living a Purpose- Driven Life I have also committed to digital evolution and continuous improvement within the realm of government. I realize that adapting and defining the future for all constituents is an ongoing requirement of the government. I aspire to be a catalyst for change, creating the future now, through systems that are more efficient, transparent, and accessible for all. Ultimately, I want to live with purpose—aligning my roles as a mother, partner, daughter, and public servant—growing into my fullest potential while facilitating others' growth. Just as plants use photosynthesis, I will absorb all that is good. I will take challenges and use them to make me stronger. I also want to be a source of light and inspiration for those I serve. Page 21
I see my life in five years as being full of purpose and fulfillment. This vision includes all of the seeds that I have planted and nurtured in the past years, both personally in my family and professionally in my work, and their growth into meaningful and productive outcomes. My Vision Page 22
Guiding My Children Toward Success The focus of my vision for the future is on my family. In 2031, I will see Ashley, my daughter, successfully attaining the completion of her nursing degree and stepping into her role as a nurse. I envision her as being compassionate and dedicated to helping others succeed. I will see Johann, my son, completing his Business Economics degree, and developing as a successful entrepreneur in an investment firm. I envision him as displaying analytical strengths, professionalism, and integrity in all of his work. Building Character and Values in the Next Generation But even more important than what they have accomplished in their careers is who they have become during this time. I see both Ashley and Johann as responsible citizens and family members, who have developed a sense of humility and respect for others. I also see them as providing leadership to their youngest sibling, Raye, by teaching her through their words and their actions. By being accountable and showing kindness to others, they are demonstrating to Raye the importance of setting goals and striving to achieve them. I see Ashley and Johann as carrying on the values that my husband and I have instilled in them, and witnessing their development as they flourish in the next generation. Page 23
Preparing for Regional Leadership and CESO Recognition As I work toward this next level of leadership, I will also prepare myself for an even greater responsibility of Assistant Regional Director (ARD) for Central Luzon, assuming that role will require strategic vision and cross-sectoral engagement with stakeholders. By achieving this role, I will also achieve a level of recognition as a Career Executive Service Officer (CESO), an indication that I am prepared to assume leadership at all levels of the bureaucracy. Embracing Accountability as a Career Executive Service Officer Being a CESO will also necessitate a higher level of accountability and professionalism on my part. The role of CESO includes providing policy direction, acting as an executive leader, and managing complex systems/organizations. Making decisions in the tasks of a CESO, I will impact the lives of people in communities and maintain that governance is ethical, accountable, and results-oriented. A CESO is expected to have competence and demonstrate integrity and a sincere commitment to public service for the good of the community and society. I envision being a leader who has developed character as well as expertise. I envision being the type of leader who leads with both the head and the heart. I will be strategic in thinking and action, but empathetic and compassionate. I will make decisive decisions, but I will be open to my team and be willing to listen. I will empower my colleagues, build trust, and create an environment where all individuals are supported in performing at their best. I will exemplify solid leadership by being disciplined, humble, and dedicated to the service of others, not just for the purpose of personal advancement. Leading with Heart, Mind, and Integrity My professional future includes the possibility of taking on a position of greater leadership, to become a Chief Economic Development Specialist, still in DEPDEV. This role would require me to oversee the technical division that is responsible for Project Monitoring and Evaluation. As the chief, I would manage this division and oversee the development of systems to ensure that the initiatives of government operate effectively and transparently in a manner that is responsive to the people. My contributions will further develop a climate in which decisions are made based on evidence; performance is measured with integrity; and development outcomes are continuously improved. Advancing to Leadership in Public Service Page 24
Championing Innovation and Digital Transformation I am also a leader who welcomes innovation and change. I will continue to advocate for and participate in the digital transformation of my organization to improve the efficiencies, transparencies, and access to its processes and services. I will also be forward- thinking and embrace the need for a change in leadership to adapt to the rapidly changing pace of our world today. Aligning Personal and Professional Purpose Ultimately, my vision for 2031 involves the alignment of my personal life and my professional career toward the same values of growth, service, and integrity. I see myself achieving positions of higher responsibility, yet will truly be ready for those responsibilities based on values and a committed purpose. I will continuously seek to be the kind of leader I wish to serve as an inspiration to my family, my organization, and my community. As I have been inspired by the process of photosynthesis for many years, I continue to seek out the light; I am growing steadily, and will continue to be a source of strength and guidance to my family, my organization, and the community I serve. Growing with Purpose Like Photosynthesis Page 25
With each passing year, I have grown as a leader, deepening my level of growth and readiness to lead—through intentional changes that shape me into the leader I am becoming. Personal Changes Page 26
Leadership Growth Journey My journey is not just a series of career advancements, but also a process of refining myself as a leader, developing my abilities, and clarifying my sense of purpose. 2026. This year fulfills a critical component in strengthening my leadership development; therefore, I will continue to be engaged in my PMDP-MMC Program so that I can utilize it as a "Transformational Learning" opportunity. I will also continue to consciously build my presence as a leader through developing my communication skills, building my confidence, and enhancing my strategic thinking skills. Additionally, I will begin developing a Digital Learning Plan that I will pursue on my own behalf in order to prepare myself to contribute to the digital transformation of my office in the future. At the end of this year, I see myself earning the degree Master of Development Management Degree from DAP. 2027. I will focus on continuing to build my technical and leadership competencies by completing specialized training in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E). I will incorporate these principles into my work in a more consistent manner by producing outputs that are based on data and results-oriented. My goal is to continue to build my influence and visibility within the organization by taking the lead on key initiatives, engaging stakeholders, and contributing to important programs and projects. 2028. This year, I envision it as a significant turning point in my career as I become the Chief Economic Development Specialist and leader of a technical division in Project Monitoring and Evaluation. I have consistently proven myself to be ready for this promotion by demonstrating strong performance, leadership capability, and the ability to supervise both personnel and systems. I will assume responsibility for managing and leading important efforts to improve the effectiveness of programs. I will also begin working on advancing Digital Innovation for my division. Page 27
2029. As Chief, I am focused on mastering my role as a leader and producing a positive organizational impact through developing the competency of managing teams, guiding complicated programs, and creating an impact on the way my organization approaches policy and decision-making. Additionally, I will actively pursue mentorship and professional development opportunities to prepare for my eventual role as an executive. I will also continue to build my competencies and prepare myself for the Assistant Regional Director (ARD) position and potential entry into the CES.2030. By this point in time, I will have built a sufficient foundation of experience and knowledge that has prepared me to enter a strategic leadership position, particularly the Assistant Regional Director position for Central Luzon. I will also have developed sufficient executive leadership competence, systems thinking proficiency, and organizational management skills to be ready to assume a CESO position and gain further access to positions of greater responsibility and authority in governance. On a personal level, I will be more resilient, balanced, and have greater clarity of my purpose; thus, I fully align my leadership journey to my personal and professional mission as a public servant and a member of my family. Page 28
My Values My values guide the direction of my life, both personally and professionally. These values inform my choices and how I interact with other people as well as define who I want to become. Both as a person and a leader, I have found of Respect, Integrity, Professionalism, and Excellence to be the main values I try to live by every day. Page 29
Respect Respect is the basic cornerstone of how I treat people. When and how I respect people in my personal life is an extension of my responsibilities as a spouse, parent, child, and sibling. For example, I show respect to each person in my family in a number of ways; by listening with empathy, valuing different points of view, and building relationships based upon understanding and compassion. Likewise, in how I treat my coworkers, stakeholders, and communities through my work. Every individual is deserving of respect, to be heard, treated with dignity and valued regardless of their position within the organization or their background. Integrity Integrity is my guiding principle, the quiet anchor that keeps me centered. Integrity represents my commitment to being truthful and principled, even when no one is watching and it is difficult to be honest. For example, as a member of my family, exhibiting integrity encompasses my actions being consistent with my words and setting an example for my children about the importance of honesty and accountability. When I am working as a public servant, integrity takes on an even more significant value because it represents my commitment to uphold ethical standards, make decisions that serve the public good, and remain faithful to the trust that has been placed upon me as a public servant. Professionalism Professionalism is a representation of my commitment to discipline, responsibility, and continual development. In my personal life, Professionalism is reflected through being responsible and dependable to my family and the responsibilities that I have to them. In my professional life, Professionalism represents the manner in which I approach my work, that is to say with competence, being prepared, and delivering quality results. Professionalism includes my willingness to learn from those who are more knowledgeable than I am, adapt to my changing responsibilities, and develop continually as I grow in my profession. Excellence Excellence is my value that pushes me to go beyond what is expected. When I think of excellence, I do not think of perfection. I think of doing my best at everything I do. In my personal life as a parent and family member, my goal is to create an environment that focuses on growth, development, and commitment to values and morals for my children. At work, creating excellence means going beyond the minimal expectations of my work and being able to find innovative solutions for my agency, provide meaningful contributions to the development of my community and ensure that my efforts lead to a better quality of life for our community members. These values provide the direction I take on my journey and remind me that success is not based only on achieving goals, but by the type of person I am and the difference I can make in society. Each of these values will continue to guide me as a mother, wife, and leader. Living My Values Page 30
I believe that life is about purpose, values, and how we help others. I know education changes people; I know people grow from failure; and I believe true leaders have character. As a mother, wife, and leader, I want to model influence, so I try to live in a way which provides the best possible example to my family and those that I serve. My Beliefs Page 31
I put these beliefs into action intentionally through my daily life roles. I want my family to feel comfortable in a loving, respectful, and honest home; therefore, I make it a priority to make my values apparent in the way I conduct my daily life. As a public servant, I show professionalism and accountability; I have an obligation to utilize the work I do to make positive differences in others' lives. Additionally, I strive to improve myself continually through both reflective and active learning, so I can be an effective leader out of skillfulness, compassion, and faithfulness to my purpose in life. Putting Beliefs into Daily Practice Page 32
Developing Myself as an Integrated Peak Performer I want to become an integrated peak performer, so I need to develop the four dimensions of myself - body, mind, emotions and spirit - with intention. The only way I can perform effectively is if I develop all four dimensions of myself together and maintain a balance and alignment between them. It is my responsibility to give conscious attention and set clear goals for each dimension. Furthermore, I will need to implement consistent strategies for my continued development. Moving Towards my Vision… Page 33
1. My Body Goal: To develop and maintain the physical condition necessary for me to have the energy, productivity, and concentration to be effective at all levels of my life. Strategy: I will create a more disciplined approach to my physical health through regular exercises. This will include walking, light workouts, or structured fitness programs at least three to four days per week. I will focus on eating healthy foods and getting enough rest because my ability to function at my best will primarily depend on how well I take care of my body. Additionally, I will use physical activity as a way to manage stress and make appointments with my health care provider for regular physical exams to support my health over the long term. 2. My Mind Goal: To continually increase my intellectual capacity, to improve my ability to think critically, and to develop a strategic perspective as a Development Manager. Strategy: I will be an active participant in my continuous learning by taking classes through the PMDP-MMC program and continuing to learn about Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) and Digital Technology. I will work to attain the habit of reading, reflecting on, and applying what I learn to improve my ability to make decisions and be productive. I will strive to expose myself to new concepts and best practices in the fields of governance and development to enable me to think broadly and develop my ability to lead strategically. 3. My Emotion Goal: My intention is to develop emotional resiliency, develop self-awareness, and be able to form strong and meaningful connections within both my family life and professional/workplace environment. Strategy: My strategy to accomplish this objective will be to practice emotional regulation and self- reflection, particularly during stressful or disappointing times when it is easy to react impulsively rather than respond thoughtfully. My intention is to nurture my ability to connect with others through developing empathy for them, listening actively, and being open to their feedback in order to strengthen my relationships as a mother, wife, and leader. I will also surround myself with supportive networks and seek their feedback and support so that I can recognize that I will continue to build emotional strength through the connection to others, the ability to understand others, and the willingness to learn and grow from past experiences. Page 34
4. My Spirit Goal: The ultimate goal is to stay grounded in my purpose, values, and sense of meaning, which guide my actions and decisions. I will nurture my inner life through regular reflection, gratitude, and moments of quiet stillness, which will enable me to stay aligned with my mission and values. Strategy: I will continue to anchor my decisions based on the principles of integrity, service, and purpose. I will remind myself of the deeper reason why I do what I do—serving my family and supporting the mission of nation-building—so that I will have sustained motivation and clarity during times of challenge. Ultimately, being a peak performer is not just about being excellent in one area, but by having harmony and alignment between the body, mind, emotion, and spirit. By harmonizing and aligning all of these dimensions, I become increasingly resilient, focused, and purposeful, able to achieve goals and support personal growth while making a meaningful contribution to my community. By living intentionally and practicing consistently, I will move closer to becoming the balanced and effective leader that I seek to be. Page 35
Ensuring My Best Contribution Across Life Aspects In all of the areas of my life, I strive to have a positive and lasting effect. To that end, I have developed a clear set of goals and strategies that are closely tied to my four values: respect, integrity, professionalism and excellence. Each of these areas is where I am able to show my purpose in its entirety. Aligning with My Vision Page 36
To create a loving, supportive family environment based on values, where each member can be developed to express their integrity, resilience and purpose. To achieve this, I am committed to being present and to providing my family with quality time to nurture their development, despite any demands from other areas in my life including work or school. As a family member, I want to be a good role model and demonstrate important values — respect, discipline and compassion — through my everyday behaviors. I will also proactively provide direction for my children's academic and personal growth by encouraging open lines of communication and by maintaining an active role in their educational processes. In my role as a wife, I will continue to support and partner with my husband in all aspects of our lives to maintain trust, a mutual support system, and common goals. Family To contribute to the positive development of my community and to society by being an active participant in providing responsive, inclusive and impactful public service. I will continue to adhere to ethical and professional standards as a government employee and will ensure that the end products of my work are focused on true development outcomes. Additionally, I will engage with stakeholders and communities and will ensure that the programs and policies I create will reflect and respond to their needs. Additionally, I will serve as a mentor to those who ask and will promote a culture that encourages service, accountability and continuous improvement. Community/Society Page 37
In addition to my civilian career, I have also committed myself to service in another meaningful way as a Philippine Air Force Reservist, holding the rank of Master Sergeant. This role reflects a deeper dimension of my dedication to serving the nation, one that extends beyond policies and programs into direct action, particularly in times of need. Through the reserve force, I have come to appreciate discipline, teamwork, and readiness in a different light, where service is not only planned but lived in moments of urgency and uncertainty. Moving forward, I intend to continue this path by actively contributing to community and disaster response efforts, offering my time, skills, and presence where they are most needed. In many ways, this commitment complements my work in development as it anchors my purpose in both planning for progress and responding when communities are most vulnerable. A Calling to Serve Page 38
To be environmentally conscious and promote sustainable and responsible stewardship through personal and professional ways of providing service to others. In my personal life, I will integrate environmentally sound practices into my daily ritual including reduced waste, resource conservation and promoting eco- friendly practices with my family members. In my professional capacity, I will continue to support and advocate for sustainable development initiatives and ensure that environmental considerations are incorporated into project planning and implementation.Environment To continuously develop myself as an individual and as a leader, and to be prepared to manage future projects as effectively, equitably and consistently as possible as a Development Manager. I will actively seek out opportunities to obtain guidance from mentors, establish professional networks and build reflective practices to further my leadership capacity. Additionally, I will strive for a level of personal balance across my body, mind, emotions and spirit to achieve and maintain long-term effectiveness. By developing clear goals and intentionally executing strategies across all of these areas of my life, I will ensure that my impact on each of them is integrated into a single contribution that contributes positively to my family's well-being, my profession and the larger community that I am serving. Self Development/Leadership Growth Page 39
Ensuring My Best Contribution in My Professional Life I am committed to actively contributing to a successful career in public service. My commitment aligns with my overall vision of becoming an effective development manager and future leader. I will create a meaningful, intentional, and results-oriented plan that will support my efforts to become a successful development manager and future leader in public service through continuous professional development, including completing my PMDP-MMC and completing a master's degree in Development Management, along with continuing training on M&E and digital transformation. Through continuous professional development, I will build a strong professional network and mentor relationship to support my growth and to open the door to higher leadership roles within public service. Career (Profession) As an organization, DEPDev strives to achieve its mandate to create effective and responsive development programs and policies that align with regional and national priorities. To fulfill DEPDev's mission, I will uphold professionalism, integrity, and excellence in all of my work and create an environment that is conducive to high-quality planning, monitoring, and evaluation processes. In addition, I will advocate for innovation and digital transformation to support DEPDev's commitment to strengthen evidence-based decision-making and results-oriented management. Organization Page 40
As the supervisor of the Monitoring and Evaluation Division of DEPDev Region III, I will lead a cohesive, high-performing, results-driven team. Creating an atmosphere of teamwork, accountability, and continuous learning will be my priorities. I will guide team members in their development of expertise in M&E methodologies, data analysis, and reporting. I will empower team members to take ownership of their work, recognize their individual strengths, and provide them with direction and support. I will encourage the team to adopt digital tools and systems that will provide greater efficiency, simplify workflows, and improve overall team performance. By clarifying goals and developing purposeful strategies for my career, organization, and workplace, I ensure that my contributions are not only consistent but also add value by creating a legacy as a public servant who contributes to developing sustainable outcomes for future generations. Workplace Page 41
Action Steps Start End Detailed Output Support Requirements Status Complete PMDP- MMC Program and Masterʼs in Development Management Jan 2026 Dec 2027 Completion of MMC modules, capstone project, and Masterʼs Degree; enhanced leadership, strategic thinking, and governance competencies DAP institutional support, study leave, time management, family support Ongoing Undertake specialized training in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Jun 2026 Dec 2028 M&E certifications; improved frameworks, indicators, and reporting systems applied in DEPDev Training funds, access to workshops, technical mentors Not yet started Develop digital competency and support digital transformation initiatives 2026 2029 Adoption of digital tools (data analytics, dashboards, tracking systems) to improve M&E processes Online learning platforms, IT support, software tools Ongoing Strengthen leadership, communication, and team management skills 2026 2029 Improved ability to lead teams, influence stakeholders, and communicate strategic directions Mentorship, leadership coaching, seminars Ongoing Lead process improvements in Monitoring and Evaluation Division 2027 2028 Streamlined workflows, improved reporting timelines, enhanced data-driven planning systems Organizational support, collaboration with team Planned Attain position of Chief Economic Development Specialist 2027 2028 Promotion to Chief; demonstrated leadership capability and readiness to manage division Performance recognition, supervisory preparation, HR support Planned Strengthen professional networks and inter-agency collaboration 2026 2030 Expanded partnerships, collaborative programs, and knowledge exchange Workshops, conferences, agency support Ongoing Making it happen… Page 42
Action Steps Start End Detailed Output Support Requirements Status Prepare for Career Executive Service (CES) pathway 2028 2030 Completion of required competencies, readiness for CESO eligibility CES training, mentors, funding Planned Develop high- performing Monitoring and Evaluation Division team 2028 2030 Skilled, motivated, and results-driven team delivering high-quality outputs Capacity building programs, team support Planned Prepare for Assistant Regional Director role 2029 2030 Demonstrated executive-level competencies and readiness for regional leadership Executive mentoring, leadership exposure Planned Making it happen… Page 43
Lea C. Hernandez is the scholar- delegate of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) to the 37 Middle Managers Class (MMC) of the Public Management Development Program (PMDP). She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines Diliman. She is blessed with a loving husband, JP and wonderful children, Ashley, Johann and Raye. th About the Scholar Page 44