Taguig City, March 29, 2025 — The first session of the Foundation Certificate in Human Resource Management (FCHRM) program by the Philippine HR Institute (PHRI) was well-received by participants, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of human resource management.. The inaugural event featured comprehensive discussions on various aspects of HR, from its historical foundations to its strategic implementation in the Philippine business environment.
The session began with an illuminating exploration of HR history, tracing its evolution from basic personnel management to the sophisticated discipline it represents today. Participants learned how HR practices transformed from primarily administrative functions focused on record-keeping and compliance to becoming integral components of organizational strategy. This historical perspective provided attendees with a deeper understanding of why certain HR practices exist and how they’ve been refined over decades to address changing workforce dynamics.
A particularly enriching segment of the session was led by program lecturer Ms. Liza Arceo, who provided expert analysis on the distinction between traditional Human Resources and Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM). Ms. Arceo, drawing from her extensive experience in the field, eloquently explained how SHRM transcends conventional HR boundaries by directly connecting people management practices to organizational objectives and long-term business strategy. As the program lecturer, Ms. Arceo highlighted that while traditional HR focuses on administrative efficiency and employee relations, SHRM takes a more holistic approach—considering market trends, competitive landscapes, and organizational capabilities when designing HR initiatives. Her nuanced explanation, enriched with real-world examples from her professional journey, gave participants clarity on how HR professionals can elevate their roles from functional experts to strategic business partners.
The session delved into practical approaches for aligning HR functions with overall business requirements. Discussions centered on how recruitment, training, performance management, compensation, and other HR processes can be tailored to support specific organizational goals. Participants gained insights into the importance of understanding business operations, industry trends, and competitive positioning to create HR strategies that drive organizational success rather than merely supporting it. The session also explored how strategic HR practices contribute to business adaptability and resilience. Attendees learned how SHRM enables organizations to anticipate change, build necessary capabilities, and foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning—essential elements for businesses navigating uncertain terrains.
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to understanding the unique characteristics of Human Resource Management in the Philippine context. Ms. Arceo highlighted the distinctive features that define HR practices in the country, including the relationship-oriented approach to management, emphasis on harmony in the workplace, and the blend of Western HR frameworks with local values. Participants gained valuable insights into how these characteristics shape organizational structures, leadership styles, and employee engagement strategies in Philippine companies. The session explored how understanding these contextual elements is essential for HR practitioners to develop effective policies and programs that resonate with Filipino employees.
Build a solid HR foundational knowledge with us! Join the next FCHRM sessions in May!
We warmly invite HR professionals, aspiring practitioners, and business leaders to join the upcoming FCHRM sessions scheduled on May 10, 17, 24, and 31. These sessions will build upon the foundations established in our inaugural meeting, delving deeper into specialized HR topics including talent acquisition, performance management, learning and development, and strategic workforce planning. Each session promises to deliver practical knowledge, expert insights, and valuable networking opportunities that will enhance your HR competencies and contribute to your professional growth in this dynamic field.