PJ Lhuillier Inc. Wins Top Honors at Investors in People Awards 2025 for Diversity & Inclusion and Wellbeing

PJ Lhuillier Inc. (PJLI), the parent company of CebuanaLhuillier, the country’s leading microfinance services provider, has been recognized with two prestigious distinctions at the Inspire to Excel: Investors in People Philippines Awards 2025, affirming its strong commitment to building a people-first workplace. The company was named Winner for Diversity & Inclusion and Runner-up for Wellbeing, showcasing its dedication to creating an empowering and supportive environment for its 12,000 employees nationwide.

The Investors in People Awards celebrate organizations that excel in valuing and developing their workforce. For PJLI, these recognitions highlight the success of its inclusive culture and holistic employee programs, underscoring that a thriving company begins with thriving people.

PJLI’s wellbeing strategy takes a comprehensive approach, focusing on five key dimensions: Physical, Spiritual, Financial, Mental, and Social. The company likens its role to that of a “tender gardener,” nurturing employees to flourish both personally and professionally. What set PJLI apart was its shift from conversation to action—translating initiatives into measurable outcomes such as improved efficiency under pressure, stronger employee engagement, and higher satisfaction levels.

Its win in Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) reflects a holistic, evolving strategy championed by President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, who has consistently led with a vision that celebrates individuality. “As a company deeply rooted in service, we recognize that our greatest strength lies in our people,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of PJ Lhuillier Inc. and Cebuana Lhuillier. “These awards reaffirm our belief that by fostering an inclusive, supportive, and empowering culture, we not only build stronger teams but also create a lasting positive impact on the communities we serve.”

The company highlighted inspiring employee stories and initiatives like the Tatak Cebuana Influencers campaign while advancing progressive policy reforms. Notably, PJLI’s Policy on Nepotism and HMO Dependents program extends to diverse family structures. One senior manager movingly shared that the health coverage policy made him feel “seen, valued, and respected”—a testament to how policies can create a genuine sense of belonging.

Beyond the workplace, PJLI promotes D&I into the communities it serves through initiatives under its KanegosyoCenters and Alternative Learning System (ALS) Programs, directly empowering marginalized Filipinos.

Jo-Ann Tacorda, First Vice President and Group Head for Corporate Services, added: “Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing goes beyond compliance or recognition. It’s about making sure every Cebuana Lhuillier employee feels valued and supported. These honors from Investors in People Philippines validate the work we’ve done, but more importantly, they inspire us to keep pushing forward in building a workplace where everyone can truly thrive.”

As Maria Veronica “Baby” Valientes, Human Resource Development Division Head, shared in her acceptance speech: “Winning doesn’t just mean we join the parades and post it online. It means embedding our D&I commitment in our policies, hiring practices, the way we address people, and how we live every day recognizing people’s diverse backgrounds.”

These recognitions affirm PJLI’s philosophy that the ultimate measure of success lies in the wellbeing and empowerment of its people. By embedding inclusivity into policies, embracing holistic employee care, and nurturing purpose-driven initiatives, PJLI continues to build not just a successful company, but a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and true, lasting value.