Celebrating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Women of Cebuana Lhuillier

All throughout Cebuana Lhuillier’s evolution and growth from a single pawnshop to becoming one of the leading and largest micro financial services company in the Philippines, it has endeavored to hire and develop personnel who could and would provide Cebuana Lhuillier clients with the best possible customer service experience.

Cebuana Lhuillier has also long understood that only employees who have the best workplace experiences can offer customers the best client experiences. Cebuana Lhuillier is a company that invests heavily in the overall development and well-being of its employees to help them become better, not only for the benefit of the customers they serve but so they become better individuals themselves with greater aspirations and sense of purpose. Currently, Cebuana Lhuillier employs over 10,000 personnel spread throughout close to 3,500 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and affiliate offices across the nation. 

Cebuana Lhuillier has recognized the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in fostering an environment where employees can thrive. By integrating these values into its company culture, Cebuana Lhuillier aims to embrace new perspectives, promote fairness, and foster a sense of belonging among its workforce. According to Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, the company's experiences have shown that embracing diversity across various dimensions such as age, race, ethnicity, ability, gender, religion, culture, and sexual orientation leads to the generation of innovative ideas and solutions. This, in turn, enhances employee satisfaction, well-being, and overall happiness. By valuing each employee and their unique qualities, Cebuana Lhuillier inspires them to contribute their best towards the company's mission of uplifting the lives of Filipinos everywhere.

In celebration of Women’s Month this March, Cebuana Lhuillier shines a spotlight on women who hold key positions in the company’s powerful Management Committee. These women prove that DEI is greatly valued at Cebuana Lhuillier. Jo-Ann Yuson Tacorda is the First Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of the Corporate Services Group; Ruth Pajares Viray the First Vice President and Shared Services Center Group head; Annette Tirol is Senior Vice President for Strategy, Customer Engagement and Market Development; Atty. Rosario Ereño is the First Vice President and Legal Services Group head, Erlinda Manansala Sumanga First Vice President and Money Transfer Group head, and Rozelyn Aguila Torreno Vice President  and the Executive Assistant to the CEO. 

These women exemplify the true value of DEI in the corporate sphere. These women executives have proven that different viewpoints, having a wider talent pool, enhanced collaboration, and improved reputation have helped not only Cebuana Lhuillier in its financial wellness mission but have, likewise, made them more empowered individually in both their professional and personal lives.

Jo-Ann Tacorda narrates: “I am grateful to Cebuana Lhuillier for giving me this role that allowed me to develop further as a woman leader, a community member and a family woman.  

The strong leadership support has enabled me to perform and be the best version of myself - at work, in the communities we serve, as well as at home.  I encourage my fellow Ka-Cebuana women leaders to lean on this support and grow your careers in Cebuana Lhuillier.”

 Ruth Viray, meanwhile, says, “Heading the Shared Services Center has exposed me to different industries which helped me expand my knowledge, expand my capabilities, and seize more opportunities.  It also gave me the platform to work alongside a talented roster of employees who excel in their respective roles. 

Annette Tirol shares: Annette Tirol shares: “Leading Customer Engagement and Market Development at Cebuana Lhuillier provided me with the opportunity to connect with numerous aspiring micro and small businesses across various provinces. I am continually inspired by the passion and determination that women in diverse communities exhibit. This is why I feel profoundly privileged to engage in the work I do—it allows me to contribute meaningfully to the lives of others while also fostering my own sense of fulfilment and empowerment.”

Meanwhile, Atty. Rosario Ereño reveals, “My position has allowed me to lead a team of talented individuals who share the same passion in overseeing the legalities of the company’s various aspects. Given how Cebuana Lhuillier touches diifferent industries, I can say that the challenges and the entire experience has thoroughly shaped me into what I am today. 

Erlinda Sumanga, head of the Money Transfer Group explains: “My journey with the company has given me a sense of purpose and pride as it allows me to bring a positive impact on the lives of others. Beyond supporting my team, I embrace a responsibility to excel in our efforts, particularly in advancing financial inclusion, ensuring a positive impact for all.”

Rozelyn Torreno, VP and the Executive Assistant to the CEO, meanwhile, shares, “Working closely with Sir Jean Henri Lhuillier has massively inspired me to do better as I learn a lot from him. As I get to witness his dedication to the company and ensuring that employees, regardless of gender, are treated fairly, I realize how this place has truly helped me become more confident in my journey of growth. 

Cebuana Lhuillier celebrates their women leaders and employees this Women’s month. And in today’s evolving workplace landscape, Cebuana Lhuillier believes that fostering diversity, equity and inclusion is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage in creating a stronger, more innovative and more equitable organization.

Joann Tacorda's journey as the First VP and Chief Administrative Officer of Cebuana Lhuillier is a testament to her unwavering dedication and innovative leadership. Throughout her tenure, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the company's administrative strategies, fostering a culture of excellence, and driving impactful initiatives.

Under her guidance, Cebuana Lhuillier has witnessed remarkable growth and transformation, solidifying its position as a leading financial services provider in the Philippines. Tacorda's strategic vision and operational expertise have been instrumental in streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring sustainable business practices.

Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Tacorda has also been a driving force behind the "Ibelong" campaign, which champions diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the organization and the broader community. Through this initiative, she has actively promoted a culture of acceptance, respect, and empowerment, creating an environment where every individual feels valued and supported.

Tacorda's journey exemplifies the profound impact that visionary leadership and a commitment to social responsibility can have on both business success and societal advancement. As she continues to lead with passion and purpose, her legacy as a trailblazer in corporate governance and DEI advocacy will undoubtedly endure for years to come.