From Passion to Profession of Maria Cecilia T. Curameng, CHRP®

Maria Cecilia T. Curameng, CHRP®, is a seasoned HR Management Leader with over 22 years of experience across North America, EMEA, and APAC, known for aligning people strategies with business outcomes in talent acquisition, performance management, and employee engagement.

As Human Resource Director at Vasquez BPO Inc., she provides end-to-end leadership over recruitment, compensation and benefits, and compliance, drawing on a track record that includes leading global people and culture strategies and steering regional HR transformation initiatives.

Her CHRP® credential underscores her capability as a strategic business advisor, enabling her to build high-performing teams, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and implement digitized HR systems that enhance operational efficiency and support long-term business growth.

Discovery of CHRP® Philippines

“I first encountered the CHRP® program through my professional network and industry events hosted by HR associations like PMAP. At the time, I was already immersed in strategic HR work, and the program stood out as a credible, structured way to deepen my expertise and affirm my commitment to the profession.”

Decision to pursue CHRP® certification

“I pursued CHRP® to formalize the breadth of experience I had gained over the years and to align with global standards in HR practice. It wasn’t just about credentials, it was about reinforcing my foundation in strategic HR, compliance, and people development, especially as I began leading regional and global initiatives.”

Impact on career in HR

“Earning my CHRP® certification gave formal recognition to the depth of experience I had built over the years. It sharpened my strategic lens and reinforced my foundation in core HR disciplines, from compliance and labor law to talent management and organizational development. It also signaled to peers and leaders that I was committed to continuous growth and excellence in the field.”

Opportunities after certification

“Yes, absolutely. The certification strengthened my credibility when stepping into regional and global roles, especially in organizations expanding across APAC, NAM, EMEA and ANZ. It became a differentiator in high-stakes projects like HR service modeling, digitization, and transformation initiatives. It also positioned me as a trusted adviser in executive conversations, where strategic HR alignment was key.”

How CHRP® helps in the role

“The CHRP® certification has strengthened my ability to lead with both structure and insight. It provided a solid framework for navigating complex HR domains, from compliance and labor law to performance management and organizational design.

In my current role, it’s helped me articulate HR strategies with greater clarity, especially when aligning talent initiatives with business goals across regions like NAM, APAC, EMEA and ANZ.”

Effect on strategic work and daily operations

“CHRP® deepened my strategic lens while grounding me in operational excellence. It helped me approach HR not just as a support function, but as a driver of organizational success. Whether I’m designing a competency framework, leading change management, or overseeing daily HR operations, the certification has equipped me to balance vision with execution, always with a focus on impact and integrity.”

Application of CHRP® principles at work

“I apply CHRP® principles daily, through ethical leadership, data-informed decision-making, and a commitment to continuous improvement. From building fair and competitive compensation structures to mentoring teams and managing compliance across global offices, the certification’s emphasis on strategic alignment and professional standards guides my choices.

It’s also shaped how I develop HR playbooks, lead digitization efforts, and foster a culture of learning and accountability.”

Recommendation for HR practitioners

“CHRP® is more than a credential. It’s a commitment to excellence. For HR practitioners looking to elevate their practice, expand their strategic capacity, or lead with credibility, CHRP® offers both the foundation and the forward momentum. It affirms your expertise, connects you to a community of professionals, and prepares you to meet the evolving demands of the field with confidence and care.”