CEO Insights Magazine

Effective leadership is a catalyst for growth, guiding teams through challenges and inspiring innovation. Ludivina 'Babes' Soco-Magpantay, the President and CEO of Wellthy Solutions exemplifies such leadership that embodies her commitment to providing safe and high-quality drinking water system solutions. Under her guidance, Wellthy Solutions aims to become a leader in the drinking water filtration system industry and ensuring its accessibility to a wider demographic.

Ludivina's journey began at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Commerce and passed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Board Examination. Her career started as an Internal Auditor at a local shipping company, quickly advancing to roles such as Head of the Credit & Collection Department. Over the years, she has held significant positions, including Chief Accountant, as Finance Manager at UEM-MARA Phils. Corp., (UMPC) & Coastal Road Corporation (CRC), where she was involved in the completion of a toll road infrastructure project and Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of a logistic company.

With her extensive background in finance and management, Ludivina skillfully navigates complex challenges in managing the company. Daily morning prayer and meditation help her maintain focus, reinforcing her role as a transformative force in the industry. Her leadership philosophy and contributions reflect her dedication to driving meaningful change.

Let’s dive into this one-on-one interaction to know more.

You have nearly thirty-eight years of ex­perience, how has your journey to success unfolded, and what guiding principles have contributed to your achievements?

I have learned to always keep my goal in mind. Ac­cumulating experience and exposing oneself to di­verse aspects of a career are among the most effec­tive ways to build wisdom and navigate challenges successfully. Take calculated risks, trust the pro­cess, and being patient and perseverance are valu­able virtues to keep. Each step taken should be pur­poseful and directed towards the desired outcome.

As the goal is pursued, never underestimate the power of prayer and reflection, as these practices help oneself stay grounded and focused amidst life’s uncertainties. It is crucial to prioritize what truly matters and remain mindful of the impact of one’s actions on others. Our journey is not solely about personal success, it also encompasses the pos­itive influence one can exert on those around you.

By nurturing relationships and supporting oth­ers, we can create an environment where collabo­ration and growth flourish. Remember, challenges can often serve as opportunities for learning and development. Ultimately, a successful journey is de­fined not only by achieving one’s goal but also by uplifting others along the way.

Can you share the distinctive experiences the University of San Carlos provides and what valuable lessons you gained from campus life beyond academics?

Studying at the University of San Carlos provided me with invaluable life lessons that extended far be­yond academics. It nurtured my independence, ma­turity, and readiness to tackle real-world challeng­es. The university’s diverse environment exposed me to a wide range of opportunities that signifi­cantly shaped my personal and professional goals.

Through engaging in various student activities, interacting with peers from different backgrounds and embracing new ideas broadened my perspec­tive. This vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and exchange was instrumental in my personal growth.

I discovered my strengths and interests, which led to crucial self-reflection and exploration. This period of self-discovery played a vital role in defining my priorities and the path I ultimately chose to pursue in both my career and personal life. The experiences I gained during my time at the university instilled in me a sense of purpose and direction, equipping me with the skills and confidence necessary to navi­gate future challenges and opportunities.

Can you describe your leadership style? What principles or strategies do you ad­here to in guiding your team?

I consider myself as an open-minded and re­sults-driven leader who places great value on the contributions of my team members, viewing them as vital assets to the company’s success. I firmly believe that every employee deserves respect, care, and trust, as these qualities form the foundation of a strong, cohesive team. My leadership approach emphasizes the importance of empowering others, encouraging them to take ownership of their roles, and fostering a supportive environment that pro­motes personal and professional growth.

I also recognize the significance of acknowledg­ing and rewarding high performers, because their dedication not only drives individual success but also plays a crucial role in the achievement of our shared organizational goals. By cultivating a cul­ture of appreciation and collaboration, I aim to in­spire my team to excel, ultimately leading us toward a brighter future together. This holistic approach to leadership is essential for creating a thriving work­place.

What future goals or milestones are you striving to reach?

At Wellthy Solutions, we are deeply committed to the belief that access to safe, high-quality drinking water is a fundamental human right. As a provider of drinking water filtration systems, our mission is to position the 'Wellthy' brand as a market leader in the industry. Our vision extends far beyond mere product excellence, we aim to make high-quality and affordable drinking water filtration systems accessible to a broader demographic, ensuring that everyone can benefit from clean drinking water.

In doing so, we also strive to contribute to en­vironmental sustainability by reducing the reliance on single-use plastic containers, which are detri­mental to our planet. Our commitment to the envi­ronment is reflected in our innovative products and practices. Furthermore, we are focused on creating meaningful employment opportunities through our growth, ensuring that our success translates into positive social and economic impacts for the communities we serve. By aligning our business goals with broader societal needs, we hope to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and the environment.

Given your extensive experience in the in­dustry, what guidance would you offer to emerging leaders in the field?

In today’s challenging business environment, le­veraging advanced technology and accessing read­ily available information are more important than ever. It is essential for businesses to continuously ex­plore new technologies, refine processes, and adopt innovative concepts that can drive them forward. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning is crucial, as it encourages individuals to step outside their comfort zones and expand their skill sets.

Taking on new responsibilities and being open to calculated risks can significantly enhance person­al and professional growth. Moreover, maintaining an open mind enables you to identify and seize new opportunities that may arise unexpectedly, which can be vital in a fast-paced market. By fostering a culture of adaptability and curiosity within your or­ganization, you position yourself and your team to thrive even amidst uncertainty.

This approach not only cultivates resilience but also encourages creativity and collaboration, ulti­mately leading to long-term success. In a competi­tive landscape, those who embrace change and re­main proactive are the ones who will stand out and succeed in achieving their goals.