HELPING HANDS: Sec Berna Romulo Puyat

Deputy Governor Berna Romulo Puyat: A Legacy of Public Service

As we reflect on the achievements of our Assumption community, we proudly highlight the remarkable contributions of BSP Deputy Governor Berna Romulo Puyat. With a distinguished career that includes serving as Secretary of Tourism and Undersecretary of Agriculture, Deputy Governor Puyat exemplifies the values of excellence, dedication, and public service that the Assumption instills in its students.

Deputy Governor Berna Romulo-Puyat has dedicated her career to public service, making contributions in agriculture, tourism, and inclusive finance. While at the Department of Agriculture, she focused on improving the livelihoods of farmers by introducing programs aimed at increasing market access, providing financial support, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.  A strong advocate of the Slow Food movement, she emphasized preserving local food traditions and biodiversity while supporting small-scale farmers. Her initiatives, including promoting organic farming and heirloom rice, equipped farmers with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a changing market, while protecting the environment and Filipino food heritage.

As Secretary of Tourism, Deputy Governor Puyat actively pushed for regenerative tourism, which goes beyond sustainability by aiming to leave a place better than it was before. This approach ensured that tourism would have a positive, lasting impact, creating improved conditions for both local economies and ecosystems. Even amidst the challenges of the pandemic, she introduced domestic travel bubbles, implemented health and safety protocols at tourism destinations, coordinated the vaccine rollout for tourism workers, launched online training programs, and secured financial assistance to safely reopen the industry, helping it recover and allowing people to return to their jobs.

In her current role at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Deputy Governor Puyat draws on her background in agriculture and tourism, remaining committed to bringing the BSP closer to the people. She oversees the Regional Operations and Advocacy Sector, which plays a key role in currency distribution, digital finance, financial consumer protection, financial health, and strategic communication. Her focus is on simplifying financial concepts and ensuring that financial services are accessible to everyone, from small farmers to underserved communities and entrepreneurs.

She ensures that BSP’s policies are effectively implemented through its regional offices and branches. By working closely with local communities, these offices serve as vital links between the central bank and the public. Additionally, she oversees the BSP Museum, which highlights the evolution of Philippine currency, financial systems, and BSP’s contributions to economic stability. Through these efforts, the BSP strengthens its connections with the public and supports a more inclusive and resilient financial system.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Deputy Governor Puyat is a devoted mother to her two children, Maia and Vito, with her late husband, Dave, and a beloved fur mom to her pug, Biggie; her beagle, Kahlua; and her four rescues, Mocha, Pizza, Tuna, and Lola. Balancing her demanding career with family life, she serves as a wonderful role model, demonstrating the importance of hard work, integrity, and resilience. Her dedication to both her family and her pets reflects her belief in nurturing both personal and professional responsibilities.

Deputy Governor Berna Romulo Puyat’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of public service. Her unwavering dedication to the Filipino people and her ability to inspire others make her an exemplary figure in our society. She shows us that through passion and commitment, we can create meaningful change and uplift those around us.

As we celebrate her outstanding contributions, let us draw inspiration from her tireless efforts and the values she embodies. Deputy Governor Puyat represents the spirit of Assumption High School—serving with excellence, compassion, and a heart dedicated to public service.

Thank you, Deputy Governor Berna Romulo Puyat, for your unwavering commitment to the nation and for being an inspiration to us all. Your legacy of service and leadership will undoubtedly continue to resonate for generations to come.