PSTD May Tipanan 2025: Illuminating the Future of Talented Filipino Workforce: A Talent Development Celebration
In celebration of Talent Development Week, the Philippine Society for Talent Development (PSTD) hosted the May Tipanan session with the theme “Illuminating the Future of Talented Filipino Workforce”, a dynamic event that brought together more than 80 talent development practitioners to explore the power of continuous learning and strategic talent growth.
During the opening salvo, PSTD President Rinah Rivero, Senior Manager of Workforce Transformation at PwC Philippines, provided an update on the organization’s progress. Strategic priorities were highlighted, including diversifying talent development offerings, expanding training initiatives, and increasing membership engagement. The President's Report also showcased the upcoming National Convention in August, coinciding with PSTD's 60th anniversary, and stressed the importance of leadership in shaping talent development strategies.
The event featured inspiring sessions and discussions, starting with Mark Relova, Learning & Talent Management Head of ACMobility, who delivered the keynote “Leading What’s Next: The Rise of the Human-Centered Leader.” Mark highlighted the need for leadership to evolve by embracing empathy, authenticity, and adaptability. He discussed how modern leaders must navigate uncertainty and balance professional duties with the personal needs of employees. By fostering human-centered leadership, organizations can create more engaged and productive workforces.
The event featured inspiring sessions and discussions, starting with Mark Relova, Learning & Talent Management Head of ACMobility, who delivered the keynote “Leading What’s Next: The Rise of the Human-Centered Leader.” Mark highlighted the need for leadership to evolve by embracing empathy, authenticity, and adaptability. He discussed how modern leaders must navigate uncertainty and balance professional duties with the personal needs of employees. By fostering human-centered leadership, organizations can create more engaged and productive workforces.
The Sparkling Conversations Panel followed, hosted by Ruby Palma, Mentoring Committee Chair and Shared Leadership Coach of Leadership in International Management Global Philippines, Inc. The panel included Gerry Plana, Management Consultant, PSTD & PMAP Past President, and CEO of Investors in People, and Jun Roy, PSTD Chairman of the Board and President of Regenerative Transformation Institute. The discussion also included insights from three Junior PSTD Leader representatives. The panel demonstrated the transformative power of Sparkling Conversation through the topic of How Can Today’s Talent Development Practitioners be Future-Ready.
The purpose of the segment is to demonstrate Sparkling Conversation. The topic was just the vehicle
Erik Barnes, Facilitator and Coach at SINO Associates, closed the event with his session “Co-Creating Brilliance: ‘Yes, And’ for a Future-Ready Filipino Workforce.” Erik demonstrated how improvisational techniques can empower trainers to create a collaborative and adaptable learning environment, encouraging real-time engagement and creativity.
BALITANG PSTD was delivered by Louie Banta, Board Member | Sponsor, Membership, Tipanan, Fellowship, CEO of LJMB, and Iris Hamada, who explained the Talent Development Framework and what practitioners can expect from it moving forward. Dr. Abegail Tongco provided a more detailed update on the PSTD National Convention.
The day concluded with an inspiring Oath Taking ceremony for new members, the recognition of Volunteer of the Month, and the Awarding of Level 2 Certification with Gerry Plana acknowledged as one of the assessors.
As we move forward, the event reinforced the importance of cultivating leaders who are empathetic, adaptable, and forward-thinking. Together with PSTD, we continue to champion a future where Filipino talent thrives, leads, and uplifts others.
Stay tuned for more engaging, exciting and impactful Tipanan sessions as we continue our journey toward a brighter future for Filipino talent!