DG Berna Romulo-Puyat’s career exemplifies her dedication to public service, with notable achievements across the agriculture, tourism, and financial sectors. While at the Department of Agriculture, she focused on improving the livelihoods of farmers by introducing programs aimed at increasing market access, providing financial support, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Her initiatives were centered on empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an evolving market.

DG Berna was instrumental in showcasing the Philippines’ vast cultural and natural treasures during her term as Secretary of Tourism, even amidst the challenges of the pandemic. She promoted sustainable tourism, focusing on environmental protection and boosting local economies. A key initiative was regenerative tourism, aimed at restoring and improving destinations. During the pandemic, she introduced domestic travel bubbles, health protocols, and coordinated the vaccine rollout to safely reopen tourism. She also secured funding for wage subsidies and launched online training for displaced workers, helping the industry survive and paving the way for a more resilient future.

Now, in her role at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), DG Berna leverages her extensive background in agriculture and tourism to address the financial challenges Filipinos face. She is dedicated to simplifying financial concepts, ensuring that financial services are accessible to all, from small-scale farmers to budding entrepreneurs, and advocating for financial literacy across the country. At BSP, she plays a key role in financial consumer protection and digital finance, while also contributing to broader initiatives in strategic communication and regional operations. Her initiatives aim to empower Filipinos through a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.

Through her initiatives, DG Berna demonstrates the importance of catering to the unique needs of various sectors in achieving broad and lasting growth. Her narrative serves as a potent reminder that true economic development prioritizes the welfare of its people.