In Episode 85 of ASCOT ‘To! Todo-todo titled “HR You Go: Hugot at Real-Talk sa Puso ng Trabaho (A Special Feature on the ASCOT Human Resource & Management Office),” Maria Veronica Dulay, Head of the ASCOT Human Resources Management Unit (HRMU), was the featured guest. During the episode, she discussed the vital roles and responsibilities of the Human Resources Unit.
The program kicked off with the hosts briefly highlighting recent events at ASCOT, including the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Tertiary Education Institutions (TEIs) and the Schools Division Office of Aurora (SDO). The agreement, held at Wesleyan University-Philippines Aurora Extension Campus, aims to enhance the deployment and training of pre-service teachers. The MOA outlines a plan to better coordinate teacher placements in local schools, offering practical experience for future educators.
During the main segment, Ms. Dulay shared her career journey before becoming the head of ASCOT’s HR Unit. She detailed the functions of HR, including employee selection and recruitment, compensation and benefits, performance management, learning and development, and employee relations. Ms. Dulay also touched on rewards and recognition, highlighting ASCOT’s status as a recognized PRIMED HRM institution by the Civil Service Commission in Aurora. PRIME-HRM, or the Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management, is a recognition for institutions that demonstrate excellence in managing human resources through strategic, innovative practices.
When asked if she believes HR is the backbone of an institution, Ms. Dulay emphasized the significant role HR plays in supporting an organization’s success. “Ang Human Resources ay nagsisilbing backbone ng bawat institusyon. Sila ang tumutulong sa pagpili ng mga tamang tao na magiging bahagi ng institusyon, at ang mga taong ito ang magbibigay ng ambag para makamit ang mga layunin ng institusyon” she said.
As a leader, she also believes in leading by example, showing her team what needs to be done more than just giving orders. She also, described her leadership style as relaxed but clear, ensuring that each team member understands their duties, responsibilities, and boundaries.
She also shared some of the challenges of working in HR, particularly enforcing rules and regulations among employees and the need for immense patience. Saying “Mahalaga ang pagkakaroon ng mahabang pasensya sa pakikitungo sa ating mga kapwa empleyado. Bilang HR, tayo ang kanilang sandigan at katuwang; hindi tayo ang dapat maging sanhi ng kanilang paghihirap, kundi kasama sa kanilang pag-angat.”
The episode took a lighter turn when Ms. Dulay answered fun questions, such as what superpower she would choose to make HR tasks easier and her funniest and most memorable experiences working in HR.
Before the program concluded, Ms. Dulay shared the upcoming activities lined up for the celebration of the 124th Anniversary of the Philippine Civil Service, including Zumba Contest, photo contest, a fun run, and more.
The episode provided a valuable and engaging look into the heart of ASCOT’s HR unit, highlighting the dedication and challenges faced by those working behind the scenes to keep the institution running smoothly.
For those who missed the live broadcast, the episode is available on ASCOT’s official Facebook page.
ASCOT ‘To! airs every other Thursday, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. on 92.1RTV Baler.