SCITECH RECENTLY: Bridging Psychology, leadership for organizational growth
Written by: Teo Wilson Ferriol
The annual Blas Lecture was held at the Frassati Auditorium on February 17, bringing together students and teachers to discuss the evolving role of psychology in various fields. The event opened with remarks from Prof. Ma. Claudette A. Agnes, PhD, who underscored the significance of understanding psychology within its historical context. She highlighted how psychology’s foundations were shaped by early pioneers such as Sigmund Freud and John B. Watson, whose contributions laid the groundwork for studying mental disorders, pathology, and behavioral science. Prof. Agnes emphasized that appreciating these historical perspectives is crucial in analyzing modern psychological inquiries.
The main speaker for the lecture was Mr. Castro Ignacio, RPsy, CSAP, CSIO, who delivered an insightful talk titled “The Leadership Playbook: Strategies for Young Professionals.” His presentation focused on the Human Resources (HR) Balanced Scorecard Model, a strategic tool organizations use to align business activities with the company’s vision and objectives. He emphasized that a well-defined vision must be the central focus in any organizational setting. Additionally, Mr. Ignacio highlighted that success is measured not just by internal efficiency but also by the level of customer satisfaction an organization can provide, reinforcing the idea that meeting client expectations is key to long-term sustainability.
A crucial point in his discussion was the importance of psychological testing in the workplace, particularly in assessing employee attributes and overall group dynamics. Mr. Ignacio elaborated on the differences between an HR Specialist and an HR Generalist, clarifying their distinct yet complementary roles in supervising individuals. He also introduced the concept of generational style assessments, explaining how organizations must adapt their management strategies based on the diverse work preferences and behavioral patterns of different generations in the workplace. By leveraging these insights, businesses can create more effective and cohesive teams.
Mr. Ignacio ended his talk with a compelling quote: “It’s not what you know; it’s what you can prove.” This quote encapsulated the essence of his lecture — emphasizing the value of data-driven decision-making, concrete performance metrics, and demonstrable skills in professional growth and organizational success.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Asst. Prof. Karen Katrina V. Trinidad, PhD, RPsy, reiterates the significance of leadership strategies and psychological principles in fostering strong, adaptable organizations. Overall, the Blas Lecture provided valuable insights into the intersection of psychology, leadership, and organization.
