Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad, founding partner and CEO of Du-Baladad and Associates (BDB Law), speaks about efficient time management, mentorship, building a professional network, and her expertise in social development policies.
How do you balance the demands of a high-profile legal career with your personal life?
Successfully managing a demanding legal career while also nurturing personal relationships requires efficient time management, establishing clear priorities, and maintaining a strong support system. I make it a point to allocate time for my personal interests, such as gardening, painting, making my own clothes, catching up with friends, and spending quality moments with my children. Engaging in these activities helps me relax and recharge, offering a much-needed balance to the challenges of my career.
In order to maintain a healthy work-life balance, it is crucial to have a work environment that allows for flexibility. Our firm understands the significance of adaptability. This enables us to customize our schedules to accommodate both our professional and personal requirements. I have also found that virtual meetings greatly boost my productivity, so I tend to favor them whenever they are an option.
In order to prioritize my personal life, I refrain from scheduling any in-person obligations on Fridays, unless necessary. This approach allows me to achieve a well-rounded work-life balance, ensuring fulfillment in both professional and personal aspects of my life.
How has mentorship played a role in your career, both as a mentee and a mentor?
My mother, who has been a guiding force in my life since the beginning, has greatly shaped my decision-making abilities and instilled in me a drive to be competitive and focused from a young age. Her guidance has played a crucial role in shaping both my personal and professional development. She has imparted invaluable wisdom and unwavering guidance, solidifying her position as the most exceptional mentor I have ever had.
Aside from my mother’s guidance, I have been fortunate enough to receive valuable insights and advice from seasoned professionals as I embarked on my career. Their expertise has been instrumental in shaping my approach to complex legal issues, boosting my confidence and competence. This mentorship goes beyond legal matters, incorporating practical approaches to real-life situations and integrating concepts of social development. When making decisions, my focus is always on the greater good of the country and on making a meaningful impact in society by uplifting people’s lives.
As a mentor, I am committed to imparting my experiences and knowledge to my junior colleagues, just as my mother and industry seniors have influenced me. I am dedicated to creating an atmosphere that offers the necessary support for them to thrive. For me, mentorship goes beyond just sharing knowledge. It’s about building lasting professional relationships that motivate and empower individuals to reach their full potential.
What strategies have you employed to build and maintain your professional network in the competitive legal landscape?
Building and maintaining a professional network involves active participation in industry events, joining legal associations, and engaging in continuous learning. Our firm is an exclusive member of WTS Global, a premier global tax network present in over 100 countries. This affiliation provides us with unparalleled access to the latest developments in the world of taxation, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of industry trends and regulatory changes on a global scale.
I also ensure active involvement in the associations our firm is part of, recognizing that building genuine relationships and fostering collaboration are key strategies in maintaining a strong network. Participating in these associations allows us to advocate for best practices and stay informed about emerging issues and innovations in our field. This proactive approach ensures that our firm can adapt quickly to changes and provide our clients with the most informed and effective solutions.
In addition to attending events, I make it a point to actively contribute to the associations’ initiatives, whether through speaking engagements, writing articles, or participating in committees. This involvement not only solidifies my presence in the professional community but also demonstrates our firm’s commitment to leadership and excellence in the legal and tax industries.
Building genuine relationships within these networks requires more than just attendance; it involves being open to collaboration, offering support to colleagues, and finding opportunities for mutual growth. By fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, I aim to create lasting professional connections that benefit both my career and the broader objectives of our firm.
Looking back on your career, what achievement are you most proud of, and why?
At this point, I have established myself as an expert in my field, having gained respect from the community and the ability to influence policies dedicated to social development for a better society. The various awards I have received, the most recent of which was “Top 15 Female Lawyers in Asia,” attest to this recognition. This is a testament not only to my dedication and hard work but also to the collective efforts of my team and the supportive environment at Du-Baladad and Associates. It underscores the commitment we all share to providing exceptional legal services and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
Being named among the best in Asia, and as the sole representative from the Philippines, is an extraordinary honor. Alongside other accomplished women in the industry from different countries, this is truly significant, as it showcases the increasing influence and contributions of women in the legal profession. I hope this award empowers me to make even more meaningful changes, shaping decisions and policies that have a positive impact on the lives of others and address important societal issues.
How do you envision the future of the legal profession in Asia, particularly regarding gender equality and diversity?
The future of the legal profession in Asia is very promising, with a growing emphasis on gender equality and diversity. At our firm, for example, women dominate with a 3:1 ratio compared to men. This highlights the progressive shift already taking place within our organization. Looking ahead, I envision even more inclusive practices where diverse perspectives are not only valued but also integrated into decision-making processes.
Law firms and legal institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of diverse teams in driving innovation and achieving better outcomes for clients. This shift towards inclusivity fosters environments where varied viewpoints can thrive, leading to more comprehensive and effective legal solutions. By embracing diversity, the legal profession in Asia is better equipped to address complex issues, adapt to changing societal needs, and deliver exceptional service to clients.
