A finance executive of a Makati-based company shares her inspiring journey of rising from humble beginnings to head of finance, showing how integrity, faith, and love for family define a truly fulfilled life.

By Anne Barrientos

People often ask me what it takes to live a fulfilling and successful life. For me, the answer is simple: live with integrity, work with dedication, and keep your faith in God at the center of everything you do.

My journey has not been easy. I started as a junior staff in the finance department of a medium-sized company. The early years were tough, balancing long work hours while also providing for my family. But through every challenge, I held on to my values—honesty, hard work, and the quiet determination to do what is right even when no one is watching. Over time, my consistency and commitment earned the trust of my boss, and by God’s grace, I was entrusted with the role of Head of Finance.

Being the family’s breadwinner has been both a responsibility and a blessing. My greatest joy is seeing how God has guided my children on their own paths. My eldest, Anja, is now a healthcare professional in Seoul, Korea, carving a meaningful career in service of others. My son, Angelo, graduated with high honors (Magna Cum Laude) two years ago from the University of the Philippines with a degree in engineering, placed 4th in the board exams, and now holds a good job as he prepares to pursue his master’s degree abroad. My youngest, Johanne, is in senior high school with dreams of becoming a bioengineer.

Their successes are not just theirs—they are testimonies of God’s faithfulness and provision. Through it all, I remain deeply grateful. I believe blessings are never meant to be hoarded, but to be shared. That’s why I try, in my own little way, to extend help to others—whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, or even strangers who find themselves in need.

For me, success is not measured by titles or salaries but by how much love, compassion, and faith we can give to others. A fulfilling life is never about perfection. It’s about pressing on, trusting God in every step, and remembering that every struggle has a purpose.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that true success comes when you surrender your plans to Him, work diligently with what He has placed in your hands, and use your blessings to uplift others.

So if you ask me today what my greatest achievement is, I won’t say it’s my position or accomplishments. My answer will always be this: it is living each day with gratitude, seeing my children flourish, and knowing that in everything, God’s hand has been upon us. Because at the end of the day, fulfillment is not about what we keep, but about what we give and Who we live for.

“True success comes when you surrender your plans to God and uplift others.”