In the heart of Cagayan Valley, a woman’s enduring passion for service, community development, and empowerment shines brightly. Ma. Sofia Gumiran Narag, regional director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2, has built a remarkable career dedicated to uplifting communities, particularly women, marginalized sectors, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Born and raised in Barangay Luquilu, Cabagan, Isabela, Sofia had her early life shaped by a deep sense of responsibility and a determination to make a difference. With a strong academic foundation, she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Political Science from the University of St. Louis Tuguegarao, later earning her Master’s Degree in Public Administration and a law degree. Her exceptional academic achievements were merely the beginning of a long and impactful career devoted to public service.
Her leadership journey began at the DTI, where she quickly rose through the ranks—from Division Chief to Provincial Director in both DTI Quirino and DTI Isabela. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering the people around her, and from the outset, her mission was not just to lead, but to inspire.
One of her most significant achievements was the establishment of Negosyo Centers in Quirino, which provided crucial support to local entrepreneurs. Under her guidance, DTI Quirino achieved 100% implementation of its Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB) Program, leading the way in MSME assistance. Sofia’s efforts didn’t stop there; she also spearheaded the development of Shared Service Facilities (SSFs), contributing to local job creation and economic growth.
Her tireless advocacy for women’s empowerment stood out when she became the DTI-R2 Great Women Project 2 Focal Person, supporting over 90 women entrepreneurs through development programs and trade fairs. Through these initiatives, Sofia demonstrated that when women are given the right tools and opportunities, they can achieve extraordinary success.
Sofia’s leadership was further highlighted during the pandemic. As the head of DTI Isabela, she prioritized supporting MSMEs during one of the most challenging times in history. Under her guidance, DTI Isabela distributed COVID-19 health kits to SSF cooperators and worked tirelessly to keep local businesses afloat during lockdowns. Her ability to adapt to the changing needs of her community ensured that businesses continued to receive the support they required to thrive—even amidst adversity.
Her dedication extended to disaster response efforts as well. In the aftermath of Typhoon Ulysses in 2020, she led relief operations for thousands of families affected by flooding. With compassion and urgency, she helped coordinate aid and reached vulnerable communities with much-needed assistance.
Sofia’s leadership journey did not stop with her work in Isabela and Quirino. Her exceptional track record led to her appointment as the OIC Regional Director of DTI National Capital Region (NCR) in 2023. In this new role, she continued to drive positive change, maintaining 19 Negosyo Centers across NCR, empowering over 12,000 MSMEs, and leading the successful Metro Fiesta Regional Trade Fair. Her strategic guidance helped MSMEs in NCR emerge stronger as they navigated the post-pandemic economic landscape.
Now back at DTI Region 2 as the Regional Director, Sofia’s influence continues to be felt across the region. From organizing regional trade fairs to spearheading initiatives that highlight local products, she has made a lasting impact on the economic development of Cagayan Valley. The region recently achieved a remarkable milestone at the 18th Padday na Lima Regional Trade Fair, generating over P9 million in sales.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sofia is deeply committed to giving back to the community. As a member of the Zonta Club of Central Tuguegarao, she participates in outreach programs focused on women, children, and marginalized sectors. Her advocacy for gender equality, ending violence against women, and promoting children’s rights has made her a pillar of support in the region.
Her husband, retired Brigadier General Nestor E. Narag Jr. of the Philippine Marines, is also engaged in outreach programs. Together, they have made significant contributions to various communities, including feeding programs in Tawi-Tawi and other parts of the Philippines.
Sofia’s journey from a Magna Cum Laude graduate to becoming a Career Executive Service Officer (CESO V) is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving others.
Her story is not just about personal success but about creating a ripple effect of positive change in her community and beyond. Whether through her tireless efforts to support MSMEs, her advocacy for marginalized sectors, or her leadership in times of crisis, Ma. Sofia Narag exemplifies what it means to serve with integrity and compassion.
Her work continues to inspire those she serves, and her legacy of empowerment, resilience, and purposeful leadership will echo for generations. She has shown that true leadership is not measured by titles or accolades—but by the lives transformed, the communities uplifted, and the hope ignited. (OTB/PIA Region 2)
