Communities grow because of people who show up. For Filipino Americans in Texas, Michelle Dela Peña- Labro is that steady force. Her story—from a modest life to becoming a respected leader and mentor—embodies the strength and generosity of the Filipino spirit.
Born and raised in Pasig City, Michelle’s beginnings were simple but full of resilience. Her father worked in a paper-recycling company; her mother juggled homemaking with side jobs such as babysitting neighborhood children to earn extra income. As a young girl, Michelle helped her mom sell items—a small but early training in courage and hard work.
“I wasn’t the best in school,” she shares with a laugh, recalling how traditional expectations pushed her toward nursing. Life, however, led her toward work and hands-on learning early on. She held her first job in the service industry as a teenager—an experience that planted the seeds of discipline and grit.
And then came the opportunity to move to the United States, a chapter of her life marked by courage, uncertainty, and big decisions made at a young age. Landing in America meant starting from scratch. It meant reinventing herself. It meant building a future one challenge at a time.
Creating a New Life Through Challenges
Adjusting to American life was both overwhelming and transformative. “Homesickness was the hardest. I missed my mom so much,” she says. Far from the automatic support system she enjoyed in the Philippines, Michelle had to build new friendships and communities.
Professionally, she faced the challenge of learning a new system while pushing through moments of self-doubt. Culturally, she had to navigate communication barriers and differences in directness. “I’m very straight—sometimes too straight!” she jokes, recalling how she had to adapt her communication style.
But Michelle is quick to point out what carried her through:
“People who understood my journey,” she says. Friends who became family. Mentors who guided her. Organizations that welcomed her.
A Leader Who Serves with Heart
Today, more than 15 years since arriving in the U.S., Michelle proudly stands as a realtor, notary public, entrepreneur, community volunteer, member of the Philippine Community Center Inc. (PCCI) International and board member of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce – Texas.
Each role is an extension of her desire to help others—especially Filipino Americans seeking to build stable lives in Texas.
As a realtor, she puts her whole heart into guiding families through the often intimidating experience of buying a home. “Every time a client gets their keys, I feel the same excitement I felt when we got our first home. It’s butterflies in my stomach. That feeling never gets old.”
She and her cousin also run M&M Native Bags, a handmade-products venture that allows her to stay connected to Filipino culture and creativity.
Through civic and cultural organizations, Michelle supports fiestas, Philippine Independence Day celebrations, charity programs, and outreach missions. As Mrs. Philippines North Texas of PCCI International, she plans to return to the Philippines with her team to distribute school supplies, support local children, and join medical missions.
“Honor where you came from,” she says. “Love your family. Be proud of who you are. And stay humble.”
Her Leadership Philosophy
Michelle believes that being a leader today is not about titles or recognition.
“Being a leader means lifting people. Helping them grow, not just chasing your own goals.”
She emphasizes the importance of resilience—bouncing back from setbacks—and of establishing healthy boundaries. “Before, I didn’t know how to say no. Now I do. I have to take care of myself so I can help others.”
Her life mantra is simple and powerful: “Focus on what matters and let go of the rest.”
Advice for the Next Generation
For young Filipino Americans or new arrivals to the U.S., Michelle encourages community involvement.
“Join organizations. Look for groups. Attend events. Build friendships. You don’t have to do it alone.”
Her story is proof that community is not just where you come from, but also the people you choose to walk with.
Movers, Shakers, and Heartmakers
Michelle may wear a crown, but it’s her generosity that does the heavy lifting. She uses her platform to help, her time to serve, and her story to inspire.
A title made her Mrs. Philippines North Texas.
Her heart made her a true leader.
