As the calendar turns to 2026, a public servant from the Philippines takes a moment to look back on a year of profound personal and professional transformation. The past year, 2025, brought significant milestones that have reshaped her approach to leadership and family life.
A Transformative Year with the PMDP
One of the most defining events of the year was her acceptance into the prestigious Public Management Development Program (PMDP). She became a scholar and joined the Middle Managers Class Batch 35 – Padayon, a program run by the Development Academy of the Philippines. This was far more than just an academic achievement; it was a life-altering journey.
The experience involved intense collaboration with her Learning Team, often leading to sleepless nights. She lived with a foster family in San Nicolas and was deeply involved in developing and implementing a Capstone Project. Being one of the 39 members of the Padayon batch was a collective experience that fostered immense growth. She emphasizes that her graduation was not an end but the beginning of a renewed commitment to becoming a peak-performing public manager.
Family as the Cornerstone of Success
Beyond her professional development, 2025 was a year of familial pride and gratitude. Her children excelled academically during the first two quarters of the school year. While the family prioritizes character over grades, their academic success was a joyful bonus. Even more rewarding were reports from teachers describing the children as respectful, kind, and thoughtful.
Her family's unwavering support was her anchor, especially during the six-month residential training in Tagaytay City. Her husband and children managed daily life seamlessly, offering constant encouragement. The steadfast support from her parents, siblings, and in-laws through various challenges reinforced her belief in divine care throughout life's trials.
Stepping into 2026 with Renewed Purpose
Carrying the lessons and blessings of 2025, she now faces the new year with confidence and hope. Her experiences have solidified her foundation in both service and faith. She moves forward, anchored in her belief and equipped with enhanced skills from her PMDP journey, ready to embrace the promises and challenges of 2026.
The story is a testament to the synergy of professional dedication and strong family bonds, highlighting a journey of continuous improvement and gratitude that many public servants and Filipinos can relate to as they start their own new chapters.
