One day while climbing the corporate ladder in the hotel industry, former top model Sybil Estudillo entertained the thought of entering the convent of the Pink Sisters. Bent on heeding God’s calling after undergoing a search-in, she went home to Tacloban to ask for her father’s blessing, but he didn’t approve. Little did she know that a man she would meet after that daughter-daddy talk would sweep her off her feet, and in a whirlwind romance define her destiny—that of raising a family.
Sybil Estudillo-Lumbab
Sybil Estudillo-Lumbab, 40, is currently the GM of Eloisa Royal Suites in Mactan. Just like her marriage to the former Mr. Mandaue Vladimir Lumbab, she maintains that things happen for a reason and how she rises to the occasion is what truly matters.
And now, being four months pregnant with her second baby (first-born Gavin is five years old) is something she didn’t exactly expect, too.
“I offer everything to God and I am overwhelmed with all the blessings (pointing to her growing belly) … all these little miracles upon miracles,” she muses. How Sybil juggles two full-time jobs—running a hotel and raising a family sans househelp—is something she calls “the great infolding.”
Today, as we pay tribute to all great mothers everywhere, let’s meet a mother-manager who believes her balancing act is nothing short of a calling, a gift of nurturing.
From being one of Cebu’s top models to a successful hotelier and mother, how’s life been so far?
I’m just taking things one step at a time. Life is good. And I like the simple life. I like being with family. In fact, working in the hotel, I have become more patient in running the business… somwehat like running a household. How often do we get that opportunity, di ba?
Sybil with husband Vlad and their son Gavin
And now, you’re expecting another child…
We are so blessed. I’m four months pregnant. (smiles)
What’s your love story? How did you and your husband meet?
It wasn’t anything arranged although I found him attractive. From that day we first met, I knew we were in it for the long haul… him being a Josenian. Hahaha! He was able to get the approval of my brothers, and even my father said, “Ayaw gyud na siya buhi-i.”
So there, I guess there is something special sa akong husband.
We heard that as a child you already entertained thoughts of being a nun, and you almost became one.
It’s funny because ever since I was little, I remember always saying that I wanted to become a simple housewife—emphasis on the word “simple”—if not, a madre. Somehow I was at the church’s door na since I did my month’s service. Pero siguro it was not meant to be because I had to be in Cebu and pursue college. Looking back, I learned that we should see life as a never-ending vocation. Motherhood is a vocation.
How do you characterize your “brand” of work and home?
Comfort. I think it kinda reflects even here sa hotel that everything should look good, smell good and feel good. You have to take into consideration the people living in it. I am considerate. I want my people to grow. I impart what I have learned when I was with Marriott Hotel. In this industry, people come and go. As much as I would like to hold on to my good employees, there is that part of me also that pushes my people to do great outside.
How are you as a wife?
My husband and I have date nights. We make sure we spend time—just the two of us.
What is your take on child discipline?
We let our son rant. We listen to him as well as let him explain his mistakes. It is my husband who does the actual palo.
What is your parenting style?
I want my kids to be part of the family. They should have a voice, although we being the parents still have the last say.
What’s your ultimate dream for your children?
I want them to be respectful and kind. For them to fit in the real world and yet be their individual selves. I hope they can puruse what they’re passionate about in whatever job they get into. My son used to say that he wants to be an astronaut, and now he wants to be a rock star. Interesting thoughts. We’ll see how that works out for him. We are just here to support their dreams.
And what if you sense that you son or daughter is showing signs of homosexuality. How will you go about raising that child?
I will still love my child. I will embrace him or her for who and what he or she is. Like I said, there will always be support from us parents.
What’s your take on infidelity?
I am not the confrontational type man gud. Maybe because I am sure of myself and there is no need to worry because my husband has always been there for me.
What inspires you?
My mother. My family. My husband. Our connection. I realized that being able to communicate can bring a lot of good. I do that in all aspects of my work, in my being a mother and a wife. I think that is my passion—communicating to other people. My ideas, being a boss … it’s all about that.
What is your advice to mothers who have full-time jobs?
Always find time for your kids. And when you’re with them, be sure to be mentally and emotionally present. Always remember that they’re the most important people in the world. Everything we do is for them. Work can wait.
Why did you decide to have no maids or yayas in the house?
I cannot risk the safety of my son to somebody that we just met. Safety not only about physical danger but also mental development.
What is the biggest life lesson that motherhood has taught you?
The meaning of “sacrifice.” Motherhood’s selfless act, unconditional love and surrendering faith to God’s guidance and blessings.
The choice to become a mother is the choice to become one of the greatest spiritual teachers there is. What legacy would you leave to your kid and the one that’s coming soon?
Faith in God and constant communication with Him.
Photos: Val Casuco
Styling: Bobbie Albert
Locale: Eloisa Royal Suites