Mark Anthony C. Galono, a Certified Human Resource Associate (CHRP) in the Philippines, represents the modern HR leader—one who blends strategic acumen with genuine people-centric values. With a diverse career spanning human resources, education, administration, and humanitarian work, Mark has established himself as both a corporate asset and a community builder.
Currently serving as a Human Resource Officer in the distribution industry, Mark oversees full-cycle HR operations while simultaneously shaping future professionals as a College Professor at a technological university. His cross-sector experience—from glass/aluminum construction to maritime shipping—has honed his ability to implement sector-specific HR solutions, including ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems. Beyond the workplace, he volunteers with the Philippine Red Cross and SOAR Deployable Response Group, embodying his belief that “true leadership extends beyond boardrooms to communities in need.”
Pursuing his Master’s in Business Administration (HRM specialization) at Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Mark complements academic rigor with certifications in Emotional Intelligence, Occupational Safety, and First Aid. His awards—including the Red Cross Youth Leadership Excellence Award—reflect a career built on competence, courage, and compassion.
The Transformative Value of CHRP Certification
How He Discovered the CHRP Program
Mark first encountered the Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) program through the Philippine HR Group on Facebook. Inspired by certified professionals like speaker Darwin Rivers at Ariva Academy seminars, he recognized the credential as a benchmark for HR excellence and began researching its curriculum. “I first learned about the CHRP program through the Philippine HR Group on Facebook. I was actively seeking ways to grow in the HR field, and I noticed that many respected HR professionals, including speakers at Ariva Academy seminars like Sir Darwin Rivers, proudly held CHRP certifications. Seeing how they carried themselves and shared their knowledge made a strong impression on me, and I started researching the program further,” he stated.
Why He Pursued CHRP Certification
For Mark, the CHRP certification represented both professional validation and a growth opportunity. “I wanted to deepen my HR knowledge and gain professional credibility in my profession. While I had hands-on experience and attended various seminars, I knew that formal certification like CHRP would not only validate my skills but also give me access to a broader network of HR practitioners. It was a personal commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.,” he explains. The program offered not just knowledge enhancement but also access to a network of practitioners committed to elevating HR standards.
How CHRP Certification Advanced His Career
Since earning his CHRP, Mark has gained greater confidence in strategic decision-making, particularly in resolving complex employee relations cases. The credential opened doors to academia—landing him a teaching role at Makati Science Technological Institute—and strengthened his advisory capacity to executive leadership. “Becoming CHRP-certified has significantly improved my ability to make sound, strategic decisions that are respected and trusted by management. It has empowered me to handle complex employee issues more confidently, often leading to win-win outcomes. For instance, when there are questionable practices within the sales department, I’m now better equipped to guide management in making fair and informed decisions grounded in HR principles.,” he notes. Today, Mark leverages this certification to bridge theory and practice, proving that HR leadership thrives at the intersection of knowledge and real-world impact.