Saida Concha: A Remarkable Journey from Laboratory Science to Financial Security Leadership
Saida Salgado Concha has built a life dedicated to solving complex problems, first within the controlled environments of laboratories and now in the intimate spaces of family living rooms. Her professional evolution from a licensed Chemical Engineer to a celebrated top-performing Financial Advisor at Cocolife—the largest Filipino-owned stock life insurance company—demonstrates a profound story of personal transformation, unwavering discipline, and deep-seated purpose.
Foundations in Engineering and Industry Leadership
A proud graduate of the University of San Carlos in Cebu City, Concha launched her career in 1979 at the Paper Industries Corporation of the Philippines (PICOP). Over more than two decades, she honed her expertise through various critical roles, including Water Purification Chemist, Junior Manager in Research and Development, and Training Officer. This extensive period in the industrial sector meticulously developed her skills in precision analysis, effective leadership, and comprehensive people development, forming a solid foundation for her future endeavors.
A Pivotal Career Shift to Financial Advisory
After opting for early retirement in 2000 and briefly serving as a Park Business Manager at Pryce Garden in Bislig City, Concha faced a significant career crossroads. Encouraged by a friend and former boss to explore the life insurance industry, she initially hesitated but ultimately decided to embrace the challenge. In 2004, she officially became a licensed Financial Advisor with Cocolife. Her exceptional performance was immediately recognized, earning her the prestigious Rookie Award in her very first year, which marked the beginning of an incredibly fulfilling new professional chapter.
Sustained Excellence and Family Support System
Now at 68 years old, Concha continues to achieve remarkable success in her field. She has been honored as Cocolife’s Top 1 Financial Advisor in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, achieved a Top 3 National Ranking, and received a Bronze Award in 2019. Her husband, Jose Flavio V. Concha, a retired Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer, provides steadfast support by acting as her personal assistant and helping to connect her with potential clients. Together, they have raised three sons, including a special needs child whom they are immensely proud of, and two young professionals—one a physician and the other a banker.
Mission-Driven Advocacy for Financial Literacy
For Concha, the numerous awards she has received symbolize a much deeper mission: to educate the public on the genuine value of life insurance and to actively correct widespread misconceptions about it. Aligning perfectly with Cocolife’s corporate mission, she believes that true service excellence involves thoroughly understanding each client's unique needs, communicating with clarity and effectiveness, and addressing all doubts with exceptional patience and professionalism.
"Financial literacy is a legacy we pass on to future generations. It empowers people to make smart decisions in securing their family’s future," Concha passionately shared.
A Direct Message to the Davao Community
Her advice to fellow Dabawenyos is both clear and urgent: "Do not wait for the right time because the right time is now. At Cocolife Davao, we offer affordable plans tailored to your specific needs. Many are easily attracted to one-time, big-time investments that turn out to be scams. It is better to come here to Cocolife, let us talk, where you are assured that your money will grow and not be wasted."
Beyond Contracts: A Promise of Security and Peace
For Saida Concha, every insurance policy she facilitates is far more than a mere financial contract. It represents a solemn promise of protection, lasting peace of mind, and a stronger, more secure future for the families she diligently serves. As a genuine Cocolife Agent of Change, she extends this commitment beyond her professional client relationships, striving tirelessly to provide enduring security and a brighter future for her own loved ones as well.
