VALORA
Meet the Co-Founders.
Valora is led by two women whose complementary backgrounds, shared values, and unwavering commitment to excellence form the foundation of everything the company stands for.
Maria Ellena
A strategist and investor whose career is built on decisive exits, cross-border business acumen, and a deep commitment to empowering women.
Maria Ellena grew up in Vancouver, Canada, with her mother before relocating to Vancouver, British Columbia, to pursue advanced studies. She holds a Master's degree combining Psychology and International Business — a dual foundation that shaped her understanding of both human behavior and global commerce, and that continues to inform every decision she makes as a leader.
Before arriving in the Philippines, she built and successfully exited two Canadian businesses: a flooring company launched from the ground up, and a marketing agency scaled into a flourishing enterprise. Both exits were deliberate strategic moves — each one freeing capital and energy for a bolder next chapter.
After relocating to the Philippines, Maria Ellena channelled her expertise into consulting — mentoring women entrepreneurs in high-momentum industries. Her practice is not simply advisory; it is a commitment to leaving a lasting mark, ensuring the businesses she touches are built to endure, scale, and create opportunity for others.
As Co-Founder and Investor, she is the driving force behind Valora's mission to redefine luxury short-term rentals in Metro Manila — rooted in a clear conviction that travelers deserve exceptional spaces and investors deserve a partner built on clarity, diligence, and trust.
"My mission is to create wealth pathways that are transparent, impactful, and built to last — for investors, for women in business, and for every community we touch."
Two paths, one standard.
It was through Maria Ellena's mentorship that MC discovered her calling in real estate. What began as guidance became partnership — an investor's strategic vision paired with an operator's meticulous care. Together, they turn capital into confidence, and properties into performance.
Maria Cecilia Empleo
A story of resilience and meticulous care — turning a hard-won international work ethic into hands-on excellence across Valora's portfolio.
Before entering real estate, MC gained meaningful international experience as an Overseas Filipino Worker, having lived and worked in both South Korea and Saudi Arabia. These postings were formative: they instilled a disciplined work ethic, cultural adaptability, and a firsthand appreciation of the determination it takes to build a better future.
Driven by her desire to be closer to her four children and to build a meaningful career at home, MC returned to the Philippines and explored her opportunities with purpose. Under Maria Ellena's mentorship she discovered her passion for real estate, developing a strong foundation in property operations, investor relations, and the nuanced demands of managing short-term rental portfolios.
Today, as Co-Founder and Property Manager, MC oversees multiple residential and investment properties across Metro Manila's premier districts — from unit readiness and tenant relations to maintenance coordination and investor reporting — with professionalism, integrity, and meticulous attention to detail.
Known for her warmth and genuine dedication, MC takes pride in helping investors navigate their journey with confidence. Whether working with first-time international investors or seasoned owners, she ensures every client feels informed, supported, and valued at every stage.
"Every property we manage carries someone's trust. I take that seriously — because behind every investment is a family, a future, and a dream worth protecting."
Partner with a team that takes it personally.
Reach out to Maria Ellena and MC — and start a relationship built on clarity and trust.