More than gender: Success as a celebration of ability
In the headquarters of Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC), a quiet revolution has taken place: For the first time in the company’s history, there is a woman at the helm with the appointment of Mybelle Aragon-GoBio as president and CEO of one of the Philippines’ largest property developers.
The real-estate industry veteran, however, says she does not see her appointment—which took place on Feb. 1—as a matter of gender, even as she took a leadership position in a profession typically dominated by men.
“Success is, and should always be, determined by capability, vision and execution, not identity. Leadership in real estate has traditionally been male-dominated, but I don’t see my role through the lens of gender,” says Aragon-GoBio.
Rising through the ranks
Aragon-GoBio’s rich, 30-year career with RLC began in 1993.
The trajectory of her career reflects the company’s own growth and diversification over the decades.
From establishing the High-Rise Buildings Division to spearheading the development of mixed-use estates, her fingerprints can be found on many of RLC’s most successful ventures.
“I’ve been fortunate to work across almost every aspect of the business,” she says. “Each role has given me a unique perspective on how we can create spaces that truly serve the needs of our communities.”
As president and CEO of Robinsons Logistix and Industrials Inc., she transformed the Logistics Facilities Division into a cornerstone of RLC’s portfolio.
Simultaneously, as senior vice president for Robinsons Destination Estates, she led the development of landmark projects like Bridgetowne, Sierra Valley and Montclair.
These integrated developments, which exemplify RLC’s “live, work, play, inspire” philosophy, exhibit her vision of creating vibrant, sustainable communities.
“When you develop a property, you’re not just building structures,” she says. “You’re creating environments where people will live their lives, build their businesses, and raise their families. That’s a responsibility I take very seriously.”
Vision for RLC’s future
With a degree in management engineering from the Ateneo de Manila University and a minor in international business from the University of Antwerp, Aragon-GoBio brings strong academic credentials to her new role.
In 2011, she was one of the topnotchers in the Professional Regulatory Commission’s Real Estate Broker Licensure Examination.
Taking over from Lance Gokongwei, who stepped down as president and CEO but continues as executive chairman, Aragon-GoBio inherits a company positioned for growth despite challenging economic headwinds.
“My goal is to position RLC for long-term, sustainable growth by driving innovation, operational excellence and strategic expansion across all business segments,” she says. “I want to ensure that we remain agile and competitive, responding effectively to evolving market conditions while creating developments that add real value to businesses, communities and individuals.”
In a statement, RLC expressed gratitude to Gokongwei for his “visionary leadership and invaluable contributions” while expressing confidence that with Aragon-GoBio at the helm, the company is “poised to embark on a new era of transformative growth and innovation.”
