By Cherry M. Roxas | APRIL 2026

Motherhood is often described as one of the most fulfilling roles a woman can have—but for working moms, it is also a delicate balancing act. Between meeting deadlines and meeting the needs of their children, working mothers carry a unique strength that often goes unseen. It is a journey filled with challenges, sacrifices, and meaningful rewards.

For those working in operations, this journey becomes even more demanding. With shifting schedules, long hours, and unpredictable work demands, being fully present both at work and at home calls for resilience, flexibility, and unwavering dedication. Despite these challenges, working mothers continue to show up every day, giving their best in both roles.

This article aims to highlight the real stories, struggles, and triumphs of mothers who continue to nurture their families while pursuing their professional responsibilities.

As part of this feature, we spoke with several mothers at NLEX to share their stories and realities as working mothers.

One of the inspiring working mothers highlighted in this article is Elaine Rose P. Madrid, who has dedicated nearly 22 years of service to the company since joining on September 6, 2004. From her early days as a Toll Supervisor to her current role as Department Head of Toll Operations, her career reflects steady growth, leadership, and commitment. In her present position, she carries the demanding responsibilities of a leader—overseeing operations, guiding teams, and ensuring smooth day-to-day execution, a role that is especially challenging in today’s fast-paced environment. Alongside her professional journey, she has also built her family, raising two children, an 18-year-old daughter and a 15-year-old son. Her story stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of a working mother who continues to lead both at work and at home with dedication and purpose.

To gain deeper insights into their experiences as working mothers, we asked them a series of questions about their motherhood journey, challenges, and reflections.

How would you describe your motherhood journey in one sentence?

My motherhood journey is challenging but fulfilling.

What is the most fulfilling part of being a mother?

            Seeing my children with a character of self-discipline and with good values makes me feel proud. With these traits, I can confidently say that I was able to raise them well. I also feel fulfilled witnessing their milestones, it makes hard work worthwhile. 

How do you usually cope with stress as a mother?

               Being a working mom is not easy. With the added responsibility of acting also as the father since my husband is an OFW, sometimes the role is quite stressful. But through prayers and having the faith in Him, everything else follows.    

How do you balance work, home, and personal time?

Setting priorities help me balance my time between work, home, and personal things. I ensure to get enough sleep to have the energy I need to fulfill my daily tasks at work. At home, I delegate some household chores to my children. I also find time to meet and connect with friends which I find enjoyable.    – Elaine Rose P. Madrid

Another inspiring working mother featured in this article is Diana J. Santos, a Verification Supervisor from the Verification Department. She began her journey in SCTEX on March 2, 2009 as a Toll Teller, where she gained valuable experience in frontline operations. In her current role, she is responsible for ensuring accuracy and efficiency in operations—work that requires strong focus, attention to detail, and dedication. Alongside her professional responsibilities, she also embraces the role of a mother as she builds her small family with her 13-year-old unico hijo, where patience, care, and guidance remain central in her everyday life. As she continues to balance both roles, she faces the demands of work and family with resilience and commitment, reflecting the strength and compassion that define her journey as a working mom.

How would you describe your motherhood journey in one sentence?

My motherhood journey has been filled with unconditional love, growth, and numerous challenges in life.

What is the most fulfilling part of being a mother?

I can see him growing and becoming responsible in everything he does, especially in his studies, even though I am not always by his side during exams.I am surprised of his achievement during end of school year.

How do you usually cope with stress as a mother?

I cope with stress as a mom by taking time for myself  “Me Time” going to salon and have my hair and foot spa 😊.

How do you balance work, home, and personal time?

Being flexible in my schedule and prioritizing tasks. – Diana J. Santos

As a working mother too, I understand how challenging this journey can be. In trying to give my children a better and more comfortable life, there are times when I feel the weight of sacrifice, knowing they need me more as they grow.

Looking back, eighteen years ago, I became a mother while working as a Toll Teller on a shifting schedule. It was one of the most challenging moments of my early motherhood—caring for a newborn while meeting the demands of work, including graveyard shifts. There were nights when I had to leave for duty, even though I knew my baby needed me the most. Balancing the responsibility of providing for my family while being present for my child was never easy, and it required strength, sacrifice, and constant adjustment.

As my family grew and I became a mother of three, the challenges continued, but I never gave up. With the support of my family, I was able to overcome those demanding years of balancing work and motherhood. Over time, I saw my children grow more independent, no longer needing the same level of constant attention as they did in their early years.

Today, with my children now aged 17, 14, and 9, the journey continues, but it has become more manageable as they grow older and more independent.

To all working mothers who are just beginning to build their families, strength and patience are key as they navigate this journey. It will not be easy, especially with shifting schedules and demanding responsibilities, but every sacrifice made serves a greater purpose. Accepting help when needed, cherishing small moments with their children, and reminding themselves that they are doing their best can make a difference. This phase may be challenging, but it is temporary—and it helps shape both their strength and their story as mothers. – Cherry M. Roxas

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