Mark Lapid continues to prove that it is possible to successfully balance public service and entertainment while remaining committed to both.
During an exclusive sit-down interview granted to selected influencers, Lapid shared updates about his work, personal life, and upcoming projects, offering a glimpse into the many roles he currently fulfills.
Known formally as Marco Tadeo Lapid, Mark currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the infrastructure arm of the Department of Tourism responsible for developing and managing tourism-related infrastructure and investment zones across the Philippines.
While many Filipinos recognize him from television and film, particularly from his appearances in action projects, Lapid's day-to-day responsibilities involve helping shape the future of Philippine tourism through major infrastructure developments nationwide.
Among the key projects currently being prioritized by TIEZA are the sewerage project in El Nido, Palawan, the rehabilitation of Burnham Park in Baguio City, and the upgrading of domestic airport terminals in several provinces including Zamboanga, Pagadian, Butuan, Siargao, Roxas, Tuguegarao, Cagayan Valley, and Ilocos Norte. He also shared ongoing efforts to modernize airport facilities, including improvements to terminal aesthetics and color schemes that aim to create a more welcoming experience for travelers.
One of the topics that excited him most was TIEZA's collaboration with Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo. According to Lapid, they are working closely on initiatives that will further strengthen tourism in Naga and the Bicol Region. Among these efforts are the evaluation of hotels being registered under tourism enterprise zones, rehabilitation projects involving Mount Isarog, inspections of the Peñafrancia Museum and Church, and support for cultural events such as the Daruanak Summer Festival.
Lapid also discussed plans for the expansion of the Naga Airport runway, the revival of the historic Bicol Express railway system, and the rehabilitation of the Maharlika Highway, projects that could significantly improve connectivity and tourism growth in the region.
His dedication to tourism development reflects years of experience in public service. Lapid first served as TIEZA Chief Operating Officer from 2009 to 2016 under the administration of President Benigno Aquino III. He was reappointed in 2021 by President Rodrigo Duterte and continues to serve under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., leading initiatives that strengthen tourism infrastructure, investment, and sustainable destination development nationwide.
Prior to his national government role, Lapid served as Governor of Pampanga from 2004 to 2007, becoming one of the youngest provincial governors in Philippine history after being elected at just 24 years old. He later sought a seat in the Philippine Senate in 2016, further expanding his engagement in national public service.
Beyond government service, Lapid remains active in the entertainment industry. Following in the footsteps of his father, actor and Senator Lito Lapid, he has built his own acting career through action films and television projects.
Fans will be delighted to know that Lapid confirmed he will once again be part of Coco Martin's newest television series, "Sigabo," which is set to premiere on June 22, 2026. He expressed excitement about returning to a project led by Coco, especially after being part of two of the country's biggest action-drama series, "Ang Probinsyano" and "Batang Quiapo."
The conversation also touched on the possibility of a future biopic based on the life of Senator Lito Lapid. When asked who could portray his father, Mark said he hopes the role would remain within the family bloodline. He jokingly admitted that he may no longer be the best choice for the role, noting that portraying his father's younger years would require someone physically capable of performing the intense action sequences and stunts that made the veteran actor an icon.
Naturally, the discussion shifted to his father, who recently became a trending topic online after many Filipinos discovered the number of bills he has authored and supported in the Senate. Among the measures Lapid mentioned were initiatives benefiting left-handed individuals and efforts to reduce the number of books elementary students need to carry to school.
More importantly, Mark shared the values he learned from his father. He described Senator Lito Lapid as his idol and someone he continues to look up to. He said he hopes to follow his father's example in both public service and personal life. Among the lessons that stayed with him are the importance of finishing one's education, becoming a good person, and providing for one's family through honest and meaningful work.
Away from the spotlight, Lapid has also invested heavily in education and leadership development. He holds a Master's Degree in Development Management from the University of the Philippines Los Baños and earned a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. He has also completed executive education programs at Harvard Kennedy School and Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Today, whether serving in government, appearing on television, or spending time with his wife, actress Tanya Garcia, and their three daughters, Mark Lapid continues to demonstrate a commitment to service, family, and professional growth.
As he takes on new challenges in tourism development while maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry, one thing remains clear: Mark Lapid is steadily building a legacy of his own while honoring the values and example that shaped him.
Watch the videos below for our in-depth full interview with Mark Lapid.
No comments:
Post a Comment