As Consul Gilbert Segarra wraps up his tour of duty at the Philippine Consulate General in Houston (PCG Houston), the Filipino American community is grateful for the invaluable contributions he has made during his time in office. In over six years at PCG Houston, his commitment to addressing the needs of the Filipino-American community has made a significant impression. From fostering cultural connections to advocating for the rights and welfare of Filipinos, Consul Gilbert’s efforts have strengthened the bonds within the community. As he prepares to move on to new endeavors, we take this opportunity to acknowledge and express our heartfelt gratitude to him for his support and commitment to enhancing the lives of Filipinos in Houston and beyond. We invited him in ‘Be Bold. Why Not?’, hosted by MJ Concepcion, as we look back on his achievements and the legacy he leaves behind in our vibrant community.
Through this inspiring conversation, we delve into the stories and insights of remarkable leaders who embody the ethos of ‘Lead with Passion,’ focusing on how true passion and boldness can lead to exceptional leadership. In this episode, our special guest is Consul Gilbert, a trailblazer in his field whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. We explore his experiences, values, and the impact of his passionate leadership.
Early Life and Background
In our conversation, Consul Gilbert provides a glimpse into his early life and background. Raised in the picturesque province of Quezon, Philippines, Consul Gilbert’s story begins in a close-knit family with deep-rooted values. He shares how his upbringing and familial environment played a pivotal role in shaping his character and aspirations.
Consul Gilbert remembers on the mornings filled with laughter and the evenings spent discussing dreams and ambitions with his family. “My parents instilled in me the importance of integrity and hard work,” he says. “They were both educators, so the value of learning was never lost on me.” This nurturing environment fostered not just a love for knowledge but also a sense of responsibility toward others.
The Influence of Education and Family
Education and family were cornerstones in Consul Gilbert’s life. With parents who were both teachers, the emphasis on learning and hard work was a given. Consul Gilbert discusses how his parents’ dedication to education and their embodiment of service and integrity profoundly influenced him, leaving a lasting impact that shaped the foundation for his ambitious endeavors. Consul Gilbert discusses how his parents’ dedication to education and their embodiment of service and integrity profoundly influenced him, leaving a lasting impact that shaped the foundation for his ambitious endeavors.
“My mother, who is now 86 years old, often reminded me that education is a tool for empowerment,” he explains. “My father, who is now 91 years old, said it’s not just about acquiring knowledge but about using it to uplift those around you.” This early lesson shaped his perspective on leadership, emphasizing that true leaders serve their communities.
From Seminary Dreams to Public Service
Consul Gilbert’s journey was not a straightforward one. Initially aspiring to join the seminary, he spent six years in religious training, which instilled in him discipline and a servant-leadership mentality. Ultimately, he shifted his path towards public service. He explored his time in the seminary and the pivotal decision to transition into a career in government service.
“I believed that joining the seminary would allow me to serve people in a profound way,” he recalls. “However, over time, I realized that my passion for serving could also be fulfilled through public service.” This realization initiated a new chapter in his life, one where he could combine his faith with actionable change in society.
The Rigorous Path to Foreign Service
The transition into the Philippine foreign service was no small feat. Consul Gilbert describes the competitive nature of the Foreign Service Officers Examination and the intense training that followed. His determination and commitment to his fundamental goal of serving the public stand out, offering a glimpse into the challenging path of becoming a diplomat.
“The exam was daunting,” he admits, “but I knew that if I wanted to make a difference on a global scale, I had to push myself.” Consul Gilbert emphasizes that this period taught him invaluable lessons about resilience and the importance of preparation. His journey through training was filled with challenges that tested both his intellect and emotional strength.
Life as a Diplomat: Challenges and Triumphs
Consul Gilbert’s career as a diplomat has taken him across three continents and through numerous challenging situations. From the complexities of consular work in the Middle East and Eastern Europe to fostering diplomatic relations in Houston, this part of his life chronicles the highs and lows of his diplomatic endeavors. His reflections on the most challenging aspects of his work underscore the resilience and adaptability required in his profession.
“Every assignment brought its own set of challenges,” he states. “In the Middle East, I faced situations that tested my resolve. Yet, it was also there that I witnessed the power of diplomacy in action.” Consul Gilbert experiences has contributed to his understanding of the global issues and the role of empathy in resolving conflicts.
Servant Leadership and Core Values
Consul Gilbert’s commitment to servant leadership emphasizes values such as integrity, empathy, humility, and adaptability.. “Servant leadership is about prioritizing the needs of others,” he explains passionately. “It’s about listening more than you speak and ensuring that everyone feels valued.” These principles guide Consul Gilbert’s interactions with colleagues and the communities he serves, reinforcing his belief that effective leaders elevate others.
Mentors and Influences that Shaped Consul Gilbert’s Journey
When asked about the most memorable persons and mentors he admires, Consul Gilbert shared his reflections on three influential figures. First, he spoke about Father Emilio Pablo, saying, “Spanish Priest Emilio Pablo, who was a naturalized Filipino citizen and spent his whole life in the Philippines serving others. His commitment to service and humility was really inspiring, and his dedication to values of service and simplicity left a lasting mark on me.”
Consul Gilbert then discussed the second influential person in his life, Ambassador Bernardita Leonido Catalla (February 18, 1958 – April 2, 2020), who was the Passport Director during his time as a contractual employee. He stated, “Ambassador Bernie Catalla is incredibly innovative and genuinely believes in the potential of things. Her ability to nurture talent was truly admirable. She encouraged me to pursue my goal of becoming a diplomat after recognizing that my work consistently exceeded expectations. Unfortunately, she was one of the first to pass away during the early stages of the COVID pandemic in the Philippines, which left all DFA personnel who knew her personally deeply saddened.”
Lastly, he highlighted the third mentor in his life, saying, “The third key mentor is Ambassador Julio Cardenas, leader of the DFA Choral, who imparted two lessons. First, focus on building lasting relationships rather than competing in a cutthroat environment. Second, nobody is indispensable in this job; meaning, impart your knowledge, help a colleague develop and mature, and then this will become a partnership.
Most Fulfilling Assignment
When Consul Gilbert was asked about the most fulfilling assignment in his career, he expressed that his time in the Middle East stands out as the most rewarding. He explained, “My assignment in the Middle East is the most fulfilling because I was able to assist a significant number of Filipinos who truly needed various forms of support. This region has seen some of the most challenging experiences for our fellow countrymen, and being there to provide help during such difficult times was profoundly meaningful to me.” He emphasized the importance of his role in addressing the unique challenges faced by Filipinos living and working in that area, noting that any mistake could affect human lives.
Impact on the Community
One of the most rewarding aspects of Consul Gilbert’s job is the direct impact on individuals and communities. He talks about the joy and fulfillment that comes from assisting fellow Filipinos and how his role enables him to make a significant difference. Consul Gilbert also mentioned the power of small acts of kindness and community service, illustrating how passion-driven leadership can effect positive change.
“I often remind myself that my role is not just about policy but about people,” he asserts. “Whether it’s helping someone navigate bureaucracy or connecting them with resources, every interaction matters.” This perspective fosters a deep sense of connection between Consul Gilbert and those he serves, demonstrating how leadership rooted in passion can transform lives.
Home Sweet Home
When asked about his time in Houston and whether his tour of duty at the PCG in Houston would be extended for another full term, he explained that “a diplomat’s time in their foreign assignment should not exceed six years, although extensions for a short period are possible.” Regarding his desire to go home, Consul Gilbert remarked that he feels he is living on “borrowed time.” He looks forward to returning home for a two-year break and preparing for another deployment in a different country after his time at the Department of Foreign Affairs. Each assignment offers Consul Gilbert fresh perspectives on both life and the people in the host country.
Wrap-up
Through Consul Gilbert’s experiences, we are inspired that leading with passion is not only about achieving personal success but also about creating a positive impact on those around us. His story is an evidence to the power of leading with passion and boldness, and an inspiration that we all have the potential to make a difference in the world. Whether you are a seasoned leader or just starting out on your own journey, Consul Gilbert’s insights and experiences offer valuable lessons and takeaways that can help you lead with greater purpose, passion, and impact. By embracing the ethos of “Lead with Passion” and leading with integrity, empathy, and resilience, we can all make a positive difference in the world and create a lasting legacy that inspires and empowers others.