Leading with purpose: InLife agency leaders uplift lives

Beyond leading by example, a true leader mentors the team, shares collective achievements, and commits to a purpose of uplifting lives. InLife’s top agency leaders take this by heart.

Cecile C. Gurrea of Agila Financial Team General Insurance Agency, Inc., Ida S. Jacob of Binondo DSO, Leonila P. Ceniza of Cebu DSO IX, Leandro C. Berino of Region 8 Achievers DSO 2, and Zaldinia V. Exaltacion of G & S Financial Team DSO, shared their inspiring leadership journeys.

Gurrea consistently shares his knowledge, strategies, and experiences to his team of financial advisors to empower them in their own journeys. “I’ve made it my mission to be present: motivating, guiding, and mentoring our financial advisors to be the best version of themselves. Seeing many of them transform from hesitant beginners into confident professional financial advisors is one of the most fulfilling parts of my roleas agency leader. I lead by example, showing that with passion, grit, and purpose, we can all make a real impact on the lives of Filipinos.”

He pointed out that with resilience and commitment to helping Filipinos lead “A Lifetime for Good,” the agency grew to over 500 financial advisors from a lean team of 15 members. “I’ve witnessed how the financial advisor career can be a vehicle for purpose, transforming not just clients’ futures but also the lives of our financial advisors and their families. I always tell aspiring financial advisors that if you’re looking for a career that blends heart, purpose, and impact, this is it. With InLife, you’re not just joining a company, you’re becoming part of a mission that truly matters.”

For Jacob, leading a purpose for others means going beyond sales targets and creating scalable systems that drive success. “For me, winning means uplifting others. It’s ultimately about building a legacy of financial advisors and leaders consciously and consistently pushing themselves past limits, staying disciplined, and embracing excellence as a way of life. When people see you leading with persistence, passion and purpose, then they won’t just follow—they’ll elevate themselves to greater heights.”

She stressed that customer focus fuels the team’s frequent financial literacy and wellness talks to ensure that Filipinos build lasting financial security. “We shift mindsets from selling insurance to sharing solutions by conducting meaningful conversations focused on life-long goals and long-term security. We conduct individual as well as family-based and business-based financial planning for income replacement and risk management, and estate and legacy planning to secure a stream of wealth for future generations,” she said.

More than leaders

Ceniza's leadership philosophy involves inspiring the team to see beyond immediate tasks and to focus on the deeper purpose of helping others attain financial security. “When we serve others selflessly, when we act with compassion and integrity, we become more than just leaders—we become beacons of hope in the lives of the people who need us most.”

She explained that the true impact of one’s work in the life insurance industry is not measured by the number of policies sold or titles achieved, but by the significant impact on the lives of others. “I’ve seen how financial education and access to life insurance products can transform lives. Our work is not just about selling a product; it’s about providing individuals and families with peace of mind. It’s a meaningful and fulfilling role where you’re not only building your own future but also helping others build theirs.”

Berino, for his part, said leading entails building meaningful relationships. “As a leader, I found out that relationship is the most moving factor in influencing and guiding people. Family-oriented relationship between leaders and the team inspires everyone to do the task ahead, and goals are met easier,” he shared, adding that this translates to excellent customer service.

Exaltacion nurtures a family of passionate and motivated financial advisors who believe in the purpose of securing a better future for Filipinos. “God has planted each of us in this industry with a purpose—to bloom and help others bloom in the process. This belief isn’t just about securing financial futures; it’s about creating a legacy of love, care, and trust. But beyond financial success, I place a strong emphasis on responsibility not only to our clients, but to one another, to our mission, and to the communities we serve.”

Noting how she finds great joy in lifting others up, she shared that she occasionally encounters parents who thanked her for encouraging them to invest in life insurance and savings plans for their children. “These moments of appreciation are priceless and reinforce the importance of what financial advisors do. I remind my team that every interaction, every decision, and every moment of care has the potential to change someone’s life for the better. We’re not just selling policies; we’re offering a lifetime of security, support, and peace of mind.”

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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by InLife.