In a world where HR is often buried in paperwork and admin, Mark Anthony Galono, Certified Human Resource Professional, is taking a different approach: using technology not to replace people—but to serve them better.
As an HR Officer at AGP Corporation, a company that distributes motorcycle and truck tires, Mark wears many hats. From employee relations and recruitment to leadership development and engagement initiatives, he handles it all. But one thing is clear: his priority is always the people.
“HR shouldn’t just be about transactions and reports—it should be about relationships, communication, and helping people grow,” Mark shared with Financial Adviser PH. “That’s why I started exploring tools that could take care of the repetitive work, so I could focus more on what matters.”
Mark has embraced automation in key areas of his workflow, from basic reporting systems to email communication tools. These changes may seem small on the surface—but they’ve transformed his capacity to lead with empathy.
“AI tools save me hours every week. That’s time I now use to personally check in with our sales team, deliver one-on-one feedback, or facilitate learning sessions,” he said. “Instead of spending my days buried in spreadsheets, I’m actually talking to people.”
Every week, Mark personally calls team members—especially those in the field—to see how they’re doing. These conversations, he says, aren’t formal evaluations. They’re human moments that build trust and keep the culture connected.
“Those regular calls let me understand what our employees are going through—what’s working, what’s not, and what they need from us as an organization,” he said. “It’s one of the simplest but most impactful things I do.”
Mark’s role also involves handling employee relations, including disciplinary actions. But even here, empathy leads.
“When I issue a Notice to Explain or a notice of decision, I don’t just hand it over. I sit down with the person, explain the context, and help them see a path forward,” he said. “That kind of guidance requires time—and thanks to automation, I now have more of it.”
He’s equally committed to learning and development. Every Saturday, Mark leads virtual leadership training sessions via Microsoft Teams for AGP’s sales team. He also plays a key role in conducting Training Needs Analysis and Employee Satisfaction Surveys, using performance data to tailor development plans.
“I love teaching and sharing knowledge,” he said. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to help others grow, whether it’s through answering their day-to-day questions or guiding them toward bigger goals.”
While many professionals worry that AI might take over HR, Mark sees it as an opportunity.
“Tech should never replace human connection—but it can clear the way for more of it,” he said. “When HR leaders embrace automation, we don’t lose our purpose—we get to lean into it.”
He’s also excited about how AI is reshaping the field.
“The future of HR is empathy-driven and data-informed,” he added. “If we use tools that free us from routine tasks, we can double down on building culture, supporting mental wellness, and driving employee engagement.”
What drives Mark is simple: seeing people thrive.
“The best part of HR is when you see someone who used to struggle suddenly shine—when they feel seen, supported, and confident again. That’s the kind of work I want to make more time for,” he said.
