Herbert Hernandez’s Path from Triple-Threat Talent to Current Achievements

In the early 2000s, the alternative rock/pop band 6cyclemind gained widespread recognition in the Philippines, quickly becoming a major success. After nearly ten years of producing music and touring, the band experienced some lineup shifts, bringing in the already-acclaimed lead guitarist, Hernandez. Herbert Hernandez, who also founded Moonstar88, continues to perform as the lead guitarist and songwriter for both bands. Juggling roles in two prominent bands keeps him exceptionally busy, yet this doesn’t encompass all his professional endeavors. Alongside his musical career, Hernandez, together with his partner Badong Abesamis, co-founded GIGIL, an internationally recognized independent advertising agency.

Herbert Hernandez’s evenings are often occupied with tours and musical performances, but his days are just as busy with meetings, alignments, and presentations for both local and international advertising clients. Equally skilled in visual arts as he is in music, Hernandez possesses a plethora of talents that keep his schedule full. He dedicates his time to a range of ventures that both excite and inspire him, making the most of his diverse abilities.

Herbert Hernandez begins his day with a moment of prayer and several cups of coffee. His workday at GIGIL spans from 9 to 6, filled with client calls and meetings, but he always makes time for a lunch break with his family. Married for 15 years and a father to three children, Hernandez places a high priority on family time every day. Whenever possible, he brings his children to his office, allowing them a glimpse into his professional life. Evenings are typically spent enjoying dinner at home, followed by performances with either 6cyclemind or Moonstar88, depending on his schedule. Hernandez caps off his day playing Mobile Legends with his wife, and he dedicates time for a weekly date night, and a family day, and plans for an annual international vacation with his family. Additionally, the family enjoys frequent bike rides, emphasizing a healthy lifestyle together.

Herbert Hernandez’s lifestyle involves considerable travel. Often, the sacrifice he makes is sleep, with many nights where he manages only about four hours. However, with dual careers that he passionately loves, Hernandez is willing to make this trade-off. The positive feedback from fans and clients fuels his motivation and affirms his efforts.

In addition to his roles in advertising and music, Hernandez is also dedicated to fostering opportunities within his industries. In 2018, he launched The Indierectory, an initiative aimed at providing a platform for independent advertisers and freelancers. This platform allows them to present their work directly to potential employers and clients. Driven by a desire to support Filipino independent talents, Hernandez hopes to help them secure paid positions, with aspirations to expand these opportunities globally.

In 2010, Herbert Hernandez launched “Lakihan mo Logo” (“Make the Logo Bigger”), which he characterizes as “a commercial break for people making commercials.” This unique concert series showcases bands comprised of talent from Manila-based advertising agencies, to provide a creative escape from workplace stress. As Hernandez ascended the corporate advertising ladder, he nearly left his music career behind. Recognizing the value of a creative outlet, he now extends this opportunity to his peers in the advertising industry. Since its inception, Lakihan mo Logo has hosted 58 concerts, with several participants going on to sign as recording artists. Additionally, Hernandez organized 12 “Rockovery” concerts, which were fundraising events to support seriously ill members of the advertising community.

Now at the age of 40, Herbert Hernandez is eyeing retirement within the next 15 years. Known for his “tireless,” “always switched on,” and “committed to doing great work,” it might be more surprising to see him step back than to continue managing his diverse roles. As a master of time management and prioritization, Hernandez is expected to deliver further groundbreaking advertising campaigns and produce more exceptional music. Whether you recognize him as the guitarist for 6cyclemind, Moonstar88, or as the co-founder of GIGIL, rest assured that Hernandez dedicates every day to excelling in each of his professional capacities.