"Legacy is not just what we inherit, it’s what we build upon."
– Michelle Lazaro
I never imagined I’d be walking the very halls my father helped shape, continuing a vision that once lived in his mind and heart. My name is Michelle Lazaro, and I serve as the Corporate Secretary of Tiger Resorts, Leisure and Entertainment Inc. (TRLEI). I worked to drive Okada Manila, one of Asia’s premier luxury resorts, towards excellence. But more than my title, I carry a name that means something far more personal to me: Lazaro. A name built on integrity, discipline, and unshakable purpose.
Daughter’s Journey, A Leader’s Calling
My father, Manuel “Lolong” Lazaro, was more than the former Chairman of Okada Manila. He was my mentor, my compass, and my quiet giant. When he passed in 2022, I, Michelle Lazaro, didn’t just lose a parent. I lost a leader I aspired to become.
"I was raised to believe that leadership is not found in power, but in purpose. That you lead best when you serve first."
Every time I walk into the boardroom or review a policy document. Whenever I carry with me the wisdom he shared during the most uncertain moments, especially during the pandemic, when the world stood still and my resolve was tested.
The Woman Behind the Curtains of Grandeur
People see the golden fountains and glittering lights of Okada Manila, but few know what ensures those lights never dim. Always working to make Okada Manila shine among others. I, Michelle Lazaro, oversee corporate governance, compliance, stakeholder communication, and meticulous standards. These help me to hold massive organizational responsibility and satisfy them efficiently.
"My work might not make headlines, but it makes stability possible. I know I have built the backbone of excellence."
Every decision I support is about people and the organization's welfare. Guests, employees, partners, we all share in this vision of excellence.
Innovation with a Heartbeat
Okada Manila stands as a beacon of luxury. But I believe the true test of a leader is knowing when to honor tradition and when to usher in transformation.
Whether it’s digitizing governance frameworks or strengthening operational discipline, I, Michelle Lazaro, lead with a mindset that embraces modernity while respecting heritage.
"Change doesn’t mean abandoning your roots, it means growing new branches from them."
This balance allows us to evolve, without ever forgetting the foundation my father and our people established and worked so hard to build.
Leading Through Crisis, Growing Through Change
Every challenge is an opportunity dressed in difficulty. In moments of market shifts, regulatory changes, or operational trials, I ask myself:
"What would my father do and what must I do now?"
And the answers are always rooted in:
Resilience over reaction
Clarity in communication
Steadiness in strategy
Grace under pressure
Through disciplined planning and a people-first mindset, we don’t just recover we rise.
A Legacy in Motion
Today, I, Michelle Lazaro, lead with one hand holding our past, and the other shaping our future.
"This is not just about Okada Manila, it’s about what we represent: dignity, excellence, and legacy reborn through innovation."
I am here not just to follow footsteps, but to expand them, for the future leaders who will come after me.
Okada Manila’s story is still being written. But one thing is certain: we will always lead with purpose, perform with excellence, and operate with heart.
Purpose Is Power
In an age where leadership is often loud, I choose to be quietly powerful. Because true strength doesn’t always announce itself—it simply shines consistently.
Michelle Lazaro is more than a name. It’s a promise to my father, to our team, and to the future. I don’t just guard a legacy, I build on it every single day.
The future doesn’t just arrive, it’s crafted with vision. I’m here to shape it, with heart, integrity, legacy, and intention
Comments
Post a Comment