Cover Senator Mark Aguilar Villar
Senator Mark Aguilar Villar
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Tatler Asia’s Most Influential 2022 honouree Senator Mark Villar hopes for more long-term projects like the Build Build Build program in the future
Before Mark Villar became a senator, he was the secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) from 2016 to 2021 and was a representative of Las Piñas City from 2013 to 2016.
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Villar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Philosophy and Economics, which he received from the University of Pennsylvania in 2001. He pursued further studies at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, earning a Master’s in Business Administration. Following in the footsteps of his parents, he then dabbled in public service and law.
When asked why he emulates his parents’ passions, he says they inspire him. “I always look to my parents for guidance and mentorship. Their careers are marked by hard work and persistence.”
Above Senator Mark Villar in the Senate’s Plenary Hall
Senator Mark Villar in the Senate’s Plenary Hall
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What are your projects in the last two years that you are most proud of? Why?
Mark Villar (MV): I’m proud of all the Build Build Build projects since so many people in the government worked so hard for many years to ensure their swift implementation.
Some memorable projects include the three bridges across the Pasig River, the Marawi Transcentral Road Project, Harbor Link, Central Luzon Link Expressway, Skyway, Laguna Lake Highway, and so many others.
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Above Senator Mark Villar during his tenure as DPWH Secretary
Senator Mark Villar during his tenure as DPWH Secretary
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What challenges do you see now in your respective industry? How do you intend to help address these challenges?
MV: In project implementation, there are many internal and external challenges. We addressed these by using technology to make our work more efficient. We implemented for the first time a project management system that helped us monitor and fast-track thousands of projects. I am a strong believer in using technology and statistics to help our industries reach a high level of performance.
Above Senator Mark Villar during his keynote speech at the 25th Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition (Worldbex)
Senator Mark Villar during his keynote speech at the 25th Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition (Worldbex)
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True success is built over time and requires commitment and persistence. There’s no substitute for sheer hard work. Implementing these projects is tedious, tiring and requires long hours over a timespan of many years. In the end, however, the results are spectacular.
Above Senator Mark Villar spent 5 years as DPWH Secretary
Senator Mark Villar spent 5 years as DPWH Secretary
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What are your plans for the coming years and what keeps you going?
MV: My plan is to use my experience in the executive department and private sector to create laws that will give long-term benefits to our countrymen. I want to see continuity in successful programs such as the Build Build Build.
I realise that these long-term projects require more than just one administration so I intend to do everything in my power to ensure the continued implementation of these projects because I know they will yield tremendous benefits for our country.
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