In an industry where trends change quickly and technical skills evolve, some lessons remain timeless. Gilbert Privado, a Certified Tourism Professional, has built his career on one guiding principle: service with authenticity.
“Adaptability, communication, and genuine service—these are the skills that matter most,” he said. “The industry is dynamic, and while technical skills matter, it’s the ability to adjust, listen, and serve with authenticity that sets you apart.” From his early years as a tourism student in Marinduque to his diverse professional journey today, those skills have been his compass.
Learning as a Lifelong Commitment
Privado’s career is marked by continuous growth. He earned his Master’s in International Tourism and Hospitality Management, actively attended international seminars, and pursued certifications such as the CTP designation. For him, learning isn’t just a professional requirement—it’s a way to stay relevant.
“I stay committed to lifelong learning. The industry evolves, so I must evolve, too,” he explained. This mindset has allowed him to move seamlessly across different roles and environments, from airport operations to the classroom and even into entrepreneurship.
The best advice he ever received became his anchor during challenging seasons: “Serve with purpose, not just for recognition.” He carried this with him during his years at the Department of Tourism at NAIA, especially at the height of the pandemic. “Service is most meaningful when done from the heart,” he added.
Taking on New Roles
His career has not been a straight line. Privado shifted from airport operations to teaching at Marinduque State University, and later into entrepreneurship by launching a coffee shop. Each transition required humility, resilience, and courage.
“Yes, I made career shifts—and the challenge was stepping into roles where I had little experience,” he shared. “But staying teachable and embracing growth allowed me to overcome the fear of the unknown.”
The courage to take risks broadened his perspective. In each role, he discovered new ways to connect with people and bring value, whether to travelers, students, or customers.
Leadership Grounded in Empathy
For Privado, leadership is not about control—it’s about service. “Empathy, vision, and accountability. A true leader inspires and serves, not just manages,” he explained.
At NAIA, he learned how powerful listening can be in resolving conflicts. “I listen first. I worked in high-stress environments, and I discovered that conflict often comes from a need to be heard. Listening opens the door to resolution.”
Today, whether guiding students or leading his café staff, he inspires by example. “Excellence is a habit, not just a requirement,” he said. His management style has evolved from task-oriented to people-centered, shaped by the belief that “when you care for your team, they naturally take care of the work.”
Lessons That Last Beyond Titles
Some of the most important lessons in his journey have been simple but profound. “Leadership is service, not position,” Privado emphasized. “Titles fade, but the positive impact you leave on people lasts forever.”
He sees no conflict between organizational goals and employee well-being. “I integrate both. At Commonbrew, our vision for growth is tied to how we value our staff. A motivated and happy team is the foundation of sustainable success.”
But leadership also means making hard choices. “The toughest decision I’ve had to make was choosing between comfort and growth. Leaving DOT NAIA for teaching and further studies was not easy, but it shaped me into who I am today,” he reflected.
Building a Future-Proof Career
Privado believes future-proofing a career in tourism requires blending technical skills with passion. He encourages professionals to stay updated with digital tools, embrace sustainability, and pursue global certifications.
“Credentials are important, but people will always remember how you made them feel,” he said. “Blend skills with passion. That passion will always be relevant.”
His story is proof that service, when done with authenticity and purpose, transcends roles and titles. Whether at an airport terminal, a university classroom, or a café, the foundation remains the same: people first.
