This Father’s Day, executives from PLDT and Smart Communications reflected on the lessons they learned from their fathers—values that continue to shape their leadership both at work and at home.
PLDT COO Butch Jimenez shared that his father taught him to lead by example and stay grounded in faith. Guided by the principle, “To whom much is given, much is required,” he believes true leadership comes from living out one’s values.
PLDT SVP and Home Business Head John Y. Palanca said integrity has always been the foundation of his leadership. His father taught him that success means little without honesty and trust. Today, he leads with empathy, accountability, and resilience, believing that while technology evolves, strong character remains timeless.
For Smart co-OIC and FVP Lloyd R. Manaloto, leadership was learned through his father’s example of hard work, curiosity, and authenticity. He believes people are inspired by leaders who work alongside their teams, remain true to their values, and stay fully present with their families despite demanding careers.
PLDT SVP and Enterprise Business Head Blums S. Pineda credits his father and grandfather for teaching him the value of reputation, integrity, and making fair decisions. As a descendant of Marcelo H. Del Pilar, he also sees leadership as a responsibility rooted in sacrifice and service.
Despite leading one of the country’s largest telecommunications companies, all four executives agree that leadership begins at home. They emphasized the importance of staying connected with family, making time for meaningful moments, and balancing work with fatherhood.
For Jimenez, family should always come first when in doubt. Palanca believes fatherhood is built through consistent presence, while Manaloto encourages fathers to stay real, engaged, and grounded. Pineda added that building deep connections at home ultimately makes one a better leader.
In an industry driven by connectivity, these leaders show that the strongest connections are still built on trust, character, and the lessons first learned from their fathers.
