PE/PVP Francisco “Chito” Zaldarriaga: The Next Man at the Helm

Who would have thought that the kid who was always getting into trouble would later become an advertising guru and an outstanding leader, holding key positions in various associations? Get to know PE/PVP Chito Zaldarriaga as he talks about his exciting journey through life and how he realized his dreams and aspirations. He also shares who greatly influenced him, and the most important thing people should know about him. On a lighter side, find out what an ideal day in his life looks like.

Rhea Vitto Tabora (RVT): What’s your story? Please share something exciting about your life’s journey.

Francisco “Chito” Zaldarriaga (FZ): I was born in the Philippines, and I’m the youngest in a family of seven siblings. I was considered a virtual black sheep (almost) as I was always getting into trouble. I got caught driving without a license at the age of 10. I loved car rallying and became president of La Salle Motoring Club in college. I totaled a car in 1995 when I was supposed to go skydiving. It was my second life, and I continued living the wild life. Eventually, I married my wonderful wife in 1981 and had three kids. I’m happily going on with two apos.

RVT: What was your dream job/dream business when you were growing up? Have you landed your dream job or has your interest changed when you got older?

FZ: As a kid, I was convinced I would be a fireman. But after college, one of my cousins asked me if I wanted to join the world of wine women and song. So after a year in the family business, I joined Mc Cann Erickson which was the start of my advertising career. I stayed on for almost 19 years. By the number of times I got pirated by different agencies, I must have not been doing too bad. Industry recognition came by way of leadership in the 4A’s and also the Adboard of the Philippines - holding several positions including President and Chairmanship of the latter. In 1997, I got a call from the Carmelray Group at a time when property was booming. I joined them and two weeks later, the Asian economic crisis kicked in. It was my baptism of fire into this exciting but cutthroat industry. I have been blessed with this career for over 20 years and am quite happy to be in it. I am currently the head of PHILEA (Philippine Ecozones Association), an association of ecozone developers in the country. I also hold key positions in other industry-related associations like GREENPRO.

RVT: Name the person who had a great influence in your life.

FZ: Jesus Christ and my wife.

RVT: How did this person made an impact in your life?

FZ: Jesus has brought me to where I am now. He has provided wisdom, guidance and most importantly, the comfort of Eternal Salvation to my life. My wife has been with me throughout this wonderful journey!

RVT: If you could have coffee/tea/wine with one historical figure, who would it be?

FZ: Jesus Christ Why? Go figure!

RVT: Who do you consider the most inspiring person alive today? Why?

FZ: Dr Peter Tanchi. He’s a very successful businessman, full of integrity and wisdom. He is the Senior Pastor of Christ’s Commission Fellowship Church. His father was also once a member of RCM. I hope to get Dr. Tanchi to give a talk in one of our future meetings.

RVT: What’s the best thing about joining the Rotary Club of Manila?

FZ: Before joining RCM, I had been invited to join other Rotary Clubs around the Metro. I attended a few meetings and although I found them interesting, I never got around to seriously consider any of them. One day, (the late) Justo Ortiz extended the invitation for me to join RCM. At that point, I thought it was high time I consider joining a Rotary Club. I asked my boss then, and his reply was “Rotary Club of Manila? You would be a fool not to accept that invitation. Go for it!” I have not regretted joining this awesome club.

How has it changed you?

It made me more aware of the various spectrum of the needs our lesser neighbors have. The valued role of being able to participate in alleviating these needs is gratifying. It is also refreshing to realize that these heavyweights of the country can occasionally let their hair down and act like boys!

RVT: If you could design an ideal day in your life, what would it look like?

FZ: After a good night’s sleep, gear up for a nice round of golf with my wife or some of my golfing buddies, have a nice round of refreshments after, then come home to a nice home cooked meal, maybe watch a nice movie and then go to sleep! Simple man. Simple life.

RVT: If you have one hour of free time right now, how would you spend it?

FZ: Swim, ski, jog, and bike.

RVT: What’s your view on environmental sustainability?

FZ: The environment CAN be sustained. It will require a holistic approach and the involvement of everyone on the planet.

RVT: What’s the most important thing that people should know about you?

FZ: My paramount priority is to please God. With this, all else follows. It’s easier said than done, although I am still imperfect in many ways.