Cleane Sarah Alba-Hernandez, a Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP), a testament to her expertise and commitment to advancing HR practice with the highest standards. Her certification is firmly supported by an academic foundation that began with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, giving her a strong understanding of human behavior.
She later advanced her professional knowledge with a Post Graduate Diploma in Human Capital Management from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, where she focused on strategic talent development and organizational competitiveness.
Currently serving as a People Operations Officer, Cleane’s role demonstrates the breadth of her HR capabilities. She manages Compensation & Benefits administration, government compliance, payroll, and employee wellness programs—ensuring not just operational accuracy but also employee trust and peace of mind.
Alongside this, she is deeply involved in talent acquisition and employee relations, balancing the responsibility of bringing in the right talent with the empathy required to address workplace concerns and disciplinary matters. For Cleane, HR is not simply about processes, but about caring for people while driving organizational growth.
Discovering CHRP Philippines
“I first came across CHRP Philippines through my social media feed and from conversations with my fellow HR friends who had already completed their training.”
Deciding to Pursue CHRP Certification
“Hearing stories and seeing their growth made me curious from my HR friends, it planted a seed in me that someday I also wanted to experience it. That ‘someday’ came sooner than I expected, thanks to my current employer. When the chance was offered, I immediately felt it was the right time to step forward.”
How CHRP Helped Her Career
“It has improved how I approach HR is not just as a set of tasks, but as a profession that requires strategy, empathy, and continuous growth. The certification became more than just a credential; it became a reminder that I am capable of leveling up, that I am equipped to take on bigger responsibilities when the opportunity comes.
“Most importantly, being CHRP-certified has earned me greater trust from my colleagues and leaders. It showed them, and even myself, that I am committed to growth and excellence in this field. It didn’t just improve my career; it renewed my passion for HR and made me excited for what’s still ahead.”
“Yes, a lot of opportunities opened up after I became CHRP-certified. The certification gave me more confidence and credibility, and naturally, it caught the attention of others in the industry. But instead of rushing to explore those doors right away, my first thought was gratitude. I wanted to give back to my current employer who believed in me and gave me the chance to be part of this program. That’s why I focused on sharing what I’ve learned with my team and applying it in ways that could benefit the organization that invested in me.”
“At the same time, the certification taught me the value of making careful choices. I’ve realized that career moves should be intentional, not just about the title or opportunity, but about where I can truly grow and make an impact. So while I know more doors are now open, I choose to walk through them with purpose, guided by both gratitude and vision.”
How the Certification Helped Her Role
“The CHRP certification has helped me in so many practical and meaningful ways in my role. First, it refreshed and strengthened my foundation in HR reminding me not just of the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ behind the policies, processes, and practices we implement every day. It gave me updated tools and frameworks that I could immediately apply in real workplace situations, whether in handling employee concerns, planning programs, or aligning HR strategies with business goals.
More than the technical knowledge, it also boosted my confidence in decision-making. I no longer rely on instincts alone; I now have the assurance that my actions are guided by both experience and structured learning. It has also earned me greater credibility among colleagues and leaders, as they see that my insights and recommendations are backed by continuous development and professional standards.”
“Absolutely, I would recommend the CHRP certification to other HR practitioners. When I first started the program, I thought it would just be a refresher of what I already knew. But as I went through it, I realized it was so much more, it gave me new insights, updated practices, and a deeper appreciation for the impact HR can make in an organization.”
“What makes CHRP valuable is not just the knowledge, but also the confidence and credibility it builds. It equips you to handle both the daily operations and the strategic side of HR with a stronger sense of purpose and clarity. Plus, being part of the CHRP community opens doors to learning from peers and seasoned HR leaders who are generous in sharing their best practices.”
“For me, CHRP isn’t just a certification you put on your résumé, it’s an investment in yourself as a professional. It prepares you for bigger responsibilities and inspires you to be the kind of HR that makes a difference. That’s why I always encourage fellow HR practitioners: if you get the chance, take it. It’s one of the best gifts you can give to your career.”