A Woman Who Steered the Journey: The Leadership of Estrelita Anastacio

International Women's Day is a time to recognize many ways women shape organization, communities, and families. Their leadership is often defined not only by titles or positions, but by resilience, compassion, and the ability to guide others through challenges.

Across industries and generations, women have stepped into roles that required courage, patience, and sacrifice. Many of their stories are not always widely told, yet their influence continues to shape the institutions and people around them.

One such story can be found in the journey of Chairman, Estrelita Anastacio, whose leadership played an important role in guiding Servicio Filipino, Inc. through critical stages of its development.

Leadership Rooted in Compassion

Mrs. Anastacio was known for her deep concern for people. For her, work was not only about business growth, but about the opportunity to help individuals build better lives through meaningful employment.

Over time, Mrs. Anastacio made the decision to devote her attention to the organization, setting aside other ventures in order to focus on sustaining its purpose.

The environment in which she worked was not always easy. Service contracting and manpower support were industries that received little recognition, and leadership positions within them were largely dominated by men. Despite this, she continued to approach her responsibilities with patience and steady determination.

Those who worked closely with her often recall a leadership style shaped by empathy. For Mrs. Anastacio, the company was never solely about expansion or profit. It was closely connected to the people whose livelihoods depended on the organization’s stability.

It represented the chance to create an opportunity for others.

Choosing Purpose

When the organization faced one of its most difficult periods, Mrs. Anastacio made a decision that would shape its future.

This decision came with personal responsibilities as well. While helping guide the company’s direction, she was also raising three children, balancing family life with the realities of business leadership.

The past was not without challenges, particularly in an industry where women leaders were uncommon. Yet she continued to move forward with patience and determination.

Expanding Opportunities

Under her guidance, the company continued to maintain relationships with major clients while gradually expanding its services. Opportunities also emerged for Filipino professionals to be deployed abroad, opening new pathways for employment and experience.

As the organization developed, additional companies were formed within the SFI Group, including Temps and Staffers and the Career Center, strengthening recruitment and workforce development capabilities.

In time, Mrs. Anastacio entrusted leadership roles in these subsidiaries to her children, allowing the next generation to guide their growth while continuing the values that shaped the organization.

A Legacy of Leadership

Today, the story of Mrs. Estrelita Abergas-Anastacio reflects the quiet strength that many women bring to leadership.

Her leadership unfolded without dramatic declarations or public recognition. Instead, it was reflected in steady decisions, personal sacrifice, and a long-term commitment to people.

On International Women's Day, her journey serves as a reminder that leadership often begins with a simple commitment- to care for people, to persevere through challenges, and to continue building opportunities for the future.