They may not have had Google Workspace or hybrid setups, but the fathers and father figures of today’s leaders left behind lessons that endure through every project pitched, team mentored, or challenge overcome. For this Father’s Day, three of our Aboitiz leaders reflect on the values, wisdom, and leadership philosophies they inherited from their dads and how these continue to guide them in a changing world.
The Life Value That Guides My Leadership
“Daddy never did anything half-heartedly. Once he made a decision, it was always all in. ”
For Ms. Ginggay Hontiveros, AEV Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer, the lesson was clear: once you commit, give it your all. “It’s something I’ve learned from him, in his own quiet way, the firm resolve once you start something, you have to finish it,” she recalled. “And you don’t hold anything back. It was just his way that you give 100 percent in the things you do, every day, big or small.” This full-hearted approach is something she carries into her work of leading Reputation and Sustainability. “He taught me that ambition is nothing without compassion. Love what you do, love the people around you more,” she concluded.
It’s a philosophy that truly reflects how she leads her team, where ambition is always matched with compassion, and purpose drives every action.
“Even when things are difficult, you put in the effort.”
AEV Chief Information Security Officer Charmaine Valmonte credits her father for instilling in her the power of perseverance. “My father always emphasized the importance of putting in the effort,” she says. That ethic of showing up and staying the course now anchors her leadership style in the ever-demanding world of cybersecurity.
“Focus on what you can control.”
AEV FVP for Corporate Finance Mark Velasquez learned from his father that discipline and preparation bring peace of mind. “He emphasized education and planning,” Mark says. “Even now, I see how that translates into how I approach work and lead my teams, especially when no one’s watching.”
What My Dad Would Say About The Workforce Today
“Amazed by Tech and Innovation, but would still value honesty and integrity.”
Charm reflects that her father would marvel at today’s innovation, but would hold fast to timeless values. “He’d still say integrity and honesty are what matter most.”
“He would appreciate the [work] flexibility these days.”
Mr. Velasquez believes his dad would take a practical approach to modern work. “He’d distinguish what can be done from home and what still needs face time. But I know he’d welcome the flexibility, less time in traffic, and more time with family.”
How Has Leadership Evolved And What Remains Timeless
Evolved: Tech, Flexibility, and Global Reach
There’s no doubt that leadership today looks different. Ms. Valmonte points to tech and globalization, while Mr. Velasquez notes how the pandemic pushed us to adapt. “Leadership now means being able to work anywhere, but also knowing when to come together.”
Timeless: Empathy, Discipline, and Human Connection
Despite the change, some qualities endure. “Empathy and communication will always matter,” says Charm. For Mark, it’s the shared meals, unplanned conversations, and mentorship moments that are irreplaceable. And for Ginggay’s lens, the most timeless leadership quality of all is love: “Love what you do, love the people around you more.”
Leadership often begins at home, with a father who shows up, teaches through action, and leads with consistency and care. This Father’s Day—and every day we have with them—we honor the Father figures that never go out of style: commitment, character, and passion, and the leaders they’ve helped shape today.
