From Cebu to a Wider Purpose: Dino Faustino on Project Management That Builds the Nation
Noel Nicolas Jr • Manila • September 2026
Anthony Dino B. Faustino
“The 2026 National Symposium on Project Management was a reminder that project management, when practiced with purpose, innovation, and integrity, can contribute to progress that reaches far beyond individual projects and organizations.”
A Professional Electronics Engineer who now does freelance consultancy work, Dino also serves as the Branch Development Officer for the PMI Philippines Chapter Cebu Branch. His connection with PMI Philippines Chapter began in April 2010, when Cebu was not yet a chapter branch. At NSPM 2026, held in Mactan, Cebu, he served as Co-Chair alongside Ms. Tina Rodriguez.
From Profession to Purpose
The theme of NSPM 2026, “From Profession to Purpose: Building the Nation Through Project Success,” resonated strongly with Dino’s view of professional work.
For him, the theme was a personal call to align one’s career and daily actions with something greater than individual achievement. Professionally, it reinforced the role that well-executed projects can play in national development where excellence, innovation, and integrity become building blocks for a stronger and more resilient country.
Our profession is not just about technical skills but also about creating lasting value and progress for the community and the country as a whole.”
This belief shaped how he experienced the symposium. Among its many sessions and conversations, Dino was especially moved by a keynote focused on innovative approaches to project management. The discussion on emerging strategies, project success, and lasting societal impact encouraged him to bring a more creative and adaptable mindset into his own professional work.
Bringing the Symposium to Cebu
For Dino, hosting NSPM 2026 in Cebu added a meaningful dimension to the event. It strengthened regional engagement and helped foster inclusivity across the country, creating space for diverse perspectives and collaboration among project professionals.
Cebu’s culture and role as a center for innovation gave NSPM 2026 a distinct setting, while also reflecting PMI Philippines Chapter’s commitment to reaching professionals beyond Metro Manila. The symposium brought together participants from fields such as IT, engineering, construction, manufacturing, education, telecommunications, and non-governmental organizations showing how widely project management principles can be applied.
Innovation Anchored by Integrity
One of Dino’s key takeaways from NSPM 2026 was the need to embrace innovation and adaptability without losing sight of integrity. He shared that emerging technologies and flexible approaches can help create progress and positive social impact, but ethical, transparent, and responsible practice remains essential.
“The crucial balance [is] between embracing innovation and adaptability in project management while upholding the core value of integrity.”
For Dino, the PMI M.O.R.E. framework—Manage perceptions, Own Success, Relentlessly reassess project parameters, and Expand perspective offers a practical way to bring this balance to life. It encourages project managers to lead well, engage stakeholders, keep learning, and consider the wider impact of their work on communities and society.
The Strength of Shared Purpose
A panel discussion featuring project professionals from various industries became one of Dino’s most memorable observations from the event. He was struck by the willingness of participants to share insights and collaborate across organizational and sectoral boundaries.
He recalled a speaker from the IT management industry who described partnerships with non-governmental organizations and educational institutions that led to innovative ways of improving community access to technology. For Dino, this example showed how collaboration and open communication can bring collective expertise to complex societal challenges.
“Connection, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose are vital for driving meaningful social impact.”
The experience reinforced his belief that leadership extends beyond managing deliverables. It also involves inspiring teams, encouraging open communication, and building a shared sense of purpose. In this way, service-oriented project management can create impact that is both practical and lasting.
Carrying the Lessons Forward
Dino’s message to fellow project managers is rooted in trust, teamwork, and openness. He encourages leaders to foster strong relationships, listen actively, welcome diverse perspectives, and empower their teams.
“When project managers prioritize building strong relationships, listen actively, and promote shared goals, they create an environment where innovation and problem-solving thrive.”
For those who missed NSPM 2026, Dino encourages them to explore the event’s recordings, summaries, and shared insights. For him, the symposium was a reminder that continuous learning, ethical leadership, and collaboration can help project professionals create meaningful impact in their organizations and communities.
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