Seeing women like Ms. Ong break barriers and achieve remarkable success in traditionally male-dominated fields gives me renewed confidence and determination.
In our Trends and Issues in Business and Management: CEO Series class, we were privileged to meet Ms. Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, the chief operating officer of Wilcon Depot Philippines, as our guest speaker. I don’t mean to be biased, but she is my favorite guest speaker among all the others we had this term, and let me share why.
In the dynamic and fiercely competitive construction and home improvement retail industry, leadership is often synonymous with masculinity. However, Ms. Ong’s journey as a COO defies these stereotypes, embodying resilience, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence over her 40-year tenure with the organization.
She began her career with Wilcon Depot when it was a fledgling enterprise, navigating a landscape dominated by male voices. She recalls the early days when Wilcon Depot operated merely two branches in the 1980s, a far cry from its current status as a powerhouse with nearly 100 stores nationwide.
Her rise to the COO position wasn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder; it was a testament to her unwavering commitment and strategic acumen. Under her leadership, Wilcon Depot expanded exponentially in its physical footprint, market influence, and customer reach. The stores, averaging 10,000 square meters, stand as monuments to her vision of providing extensive product choices and unparalleled customer experiences.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Ong attributes much of her success to what she calls the “Seven Laws of Harvest” principles that guide her professional and personal life. These laws emphasize sowing good seeds, persevering through challenges, and always looking forward to future opportunities. They underscore her belief in continuous improvement and the importance of integrity in leadership.
Throughout her career, Ms. Ong has embraced challenges as opportunities for growth. She pursued her MBA at De La Salle University-Manila. She graduated with distinction despite the demands of motherhood and leadership responsibilities, demonstrating her commitment to personal development and academic excellence. Her decision to educate herself further during the digital transformation era underscores her proactive approach to staying ahead in an ever-evolving industry.
To have a female leader talk always inspires me, especially because I’ve faced moments when I become skeptical of my capabilities simply because I’m a woman. Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered societal expectations and stereotypes that sometimes made me doubt myself. But seeing women like Ms. Ong break barriers and achieve remarkable success in traditionally male-dominated fields gives me renewed confidence and determination.
Ms. Ong’s leadership style emphasizes inclusivity, integrity, and innovation—qualities that are not defined by gender but by character and competence. She has shown that being a woman in leadership is not a limitation but a strength. Her achievements inspire me to embrace my potential fully, challenge stereotypes, and pursue my goals with confidence.
I am drawn to stories of how Ms. Ong navigated challenges, made tough decisions, and fostered a positive work culture. These experiences resonate with my journey of overcoming doubts and striving for excellence in a competitive world.
Ms. Ong’s impact extends beyond her professional accomplishments. She actively promotes diversity and empowerment within her organization and the broader community. Her commitment to mentoring and supporting women in their careers underscores the importance of lifting others as we climb. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t just about individual success but about creating opportunities for others to succeed as well.
Reflecting on my experiences, I realize the importance of challenging stereotypes and advocating for equal opportunities. It’s about recognizing that gender should never limit anyone’s aspirations or capabilities. Whenever I recall Ms. Ong’s story and insights, I’m reminded that leadership is about authenticity and resilience—qualities that transcend gender and empower individuals to make a difference.
Having a female leader like Ms. Rosemarie Bosch-Ong to look to for inspiration has been transformative for me. Her journey reminds me that my gender doesn’t define my abilities or my potential. Ms. Ong’s story is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women everywhere, showing us that we can achieve our dreams and inspire others to do the same with courage and perseverance.
The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
