Supporting not only the business units of PLDT and Smart, but also communities, local government units and national agencies, and other organizations, the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) is a partner for progress and development, especially for those who are marginalized or need help in times of crisis. 

For PSF President Ma. Esther O. Santos, being a woman leader in the PLDT group is both a privilege and a challenge. “I’d say that it is one of the plusses of being part of this organization -- that we have very competent, empowered women leaders in the group. We get support from our men and women leaders, mainly because for the work of nation-building, it’s not a gender issue. We are focused on what we do and on what we want to achieve for our country, since we share that vision of a connected, progressive, empowered Philippines,” she said.

She recalled how she worked closely with the chairman, Manny V. Pangilinan. “What stands out in my mind is how he is a leader on all occasions, whether it’s a crisis or good times. We learn in action, when we see how our chairman MVP is concerned, concrete, and detailed in the way that we should help the people.”

She also recognized the fact that there are many women leaders in the development field. “It’s a shared experience when women work together for the programs. Women have that special touch, maybe because we are multitaskers, we are also big-hearted, we have an eye for detail, and empathy for the people we serve.” For Esther, these traits are important when we are working on projects, especially when catering to the marginalized.

One thing that inspired her in the course of her work in the foundation, is her witnessing how strong women can be in times of disaster or extreme poverty. “I’ve seen how it’s the women who really take up the challenge to bring their family forward. Talagang makikita mo yung mga babae talagang enterprising, they would find ways to help and take care of their family,” she noted.