In the challenging realm of infrastructure development, extraordinary women professionals make waves with their resilience and dedication at work and outside.

Meet Paje, Reah, and Aines—three #InfrAmazingWomen breaking barriers and championing change in their respective fields. From navigating male-dominated sectors to spearheading transformative projects, each #InfrAmazingWoman brings her unique perspective, expertise, and drive.

Despite challenges, they stand firm, inspiring us with their success stories. Let’s dive into their journeys and discover what makes them truly #InfrAmazingWomen.

• Patricia Janelli “Paje” A. Davide (Assistant Vice-President, Structuring & Regulatory Affairs, Aboitiz InfraCapital)
• Reah Mea “Reah” R. Pendejito (Facility Lead, Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc.)
• Lissa Aines “Aines” T. Librodo (Head, Airline Marketing & Tourism Development, Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC)

How would you describe yourself as a working woman? What drives or motivates you at work to give your best?

PAJE: I am grateful for the opportunity to be a working woman. I value relationships more than anything. What motivates me to give my best at work is knowing that no role is too small and that I am part of something bigger.

REAH: As a working woman in a male-dominated industry, I am resilient and assertive. I believe in the power of persistence and perseverance to overcome challenges. I support gender equality and inclusiveness, wherein everyone’s contributions are valued. Knowing that I work for a purpose and every day is a chance to learn new things and grow personally and professionally motivates me to work and give my best.

AINES: I don’t differ from most working women. I wake up before 5 a.m., say my prayers, walk for 30-45 minutes, eat a healthy breakfast, bathe, dress, and drive to work. I start work at 9 am, and I spend my time wisely. I have a laundry list of what I must finish for the day. I allot some time to read industry news and do ad hoc work. I go home around 7-8 p.m.

Our team is responsible for route development and growing traffic at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA). Knowing that the airport’s success largely depends on connectivity and traffic keeps me on my toes. Before the pandemic, MCIA was on a growth trajectory. I expect continued success soon.

What’s your story at work? What brought you here to AIC? Is this something that you have always envisioned doing?

PAJE: I’ve always wanted to contribute to nation-building in some way, and the potential of doing so through public-private partnerships (PPPs) was the closest I could get—short of joining government. My desire to deepen this knowledge of PPPs and broaden the reach and impact of my work is what drove me to join AIC.

REAH: This project is particularly close to my heart as a pure Davaoeña. I can finally utilize my ability and skills to help my fellow Davaoeños by helping achieve the company’s goal of supplying safe and potable water. I always envisioned myself to work not just for money but also for a purpose. It’s not easy, but it is fulfilling, from being part of the testing and commissioning as a Mechanical Engineer and going above and beyond to extend assistance to the team until today. Finally, the plant is operating, and I am one of the first Facility Lead of Apo Agua Operations.

AINES: I worked with Aboitiz Transport for 13 years until 2010 as AVP for Revenue and Yield Management and AVP for Freight Finance. Then, I moved to Philippine Airlines as VP for Commercial Planning and VAir in Taiwan as Director for Commercial Planning. I started working in Cebu Airport 8 years ago. Fate brought me back to Aboitiz.

How do you overcome challenges at work, and how do you balance them with your other responsibilities?

PAJE: Being a woman in a profession that has traditionally been dominated by men is tough in itself. Being young makes it even tougher. Our line of work often demands a show of strength, yet that same strength is seen as intimidating—”too much” for a (young) woman. We’re expected to be “every inch a professional, and very much a lady.”

The social and cultural pressure to be / do / have it all in our professional and personal lives can get overwhelming. We’ve still got a long way to go and I’m just grateful to have a solid support system in my family, friends, and “sisters from other misters” whose lives constantly remind me that “babae ka, hindi babae lang.”

REAH: When faced with challenges, I remain calm, and if necessary, I step back and see the bigger picture to identify and sort out the problem, thinking that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and learn. I balance everything by having a positive perception and putting first things first. I also practice self-care to ensure I have the energy and drive to excel professionally and personally.

AINES: Challenges will always exist. I give the company the best version of myself and move on. I don’t believe in work-life balance—probably more work-life integration. There is always a trade-off. We have to be flexible. There will be instances when we have to spend more time at work. This should be a conscious decision, not an imposition. But if the family requires our presence, that is the priority.

Paje, Rhea, and Aines exemplify the spirit of resilience and determination, paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered workforce in the infrastructure industry. Their stories show that with perseverance, we can accomplish what we set out to do, overcome any obstacle and make a meaningful impact on our organization and the larger community.

Cheers to AIC’s #InfrAmazingWomen!