MAP marks 75 years of leadership excellence with gala ball and charity concert

Filipino Times

2 days ago

The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) marked its 75th anniversary with a glittering gala ball and charity concert at Shangri-La The Fort — a celebration that honored its unmatched role in nation-building and signaled its bold expansion in the regional and global stage.
Resounding the spirit of leadership, legacy, and limitless possibilities, the evening brought together the nation's most influential figures in business, government, and the academe — the very community that has helped define MAP as a pillar of Philippine economic progress since its founding in 1950.
MAP President Al Panlilio paid tribute to past leaders and members whose vision and commitment shaped the organization's enduring legacy. Al Panlilio, MAP President and Chair of Maya Bank
Underscoring the organization's growth and bigger vision, Panlilio added: 'For years, MAP has been a big fish in the Philippine aquarium. But now, it's time to swim in a bigger pond — to bring our values, our energy, and our impact to the ASEAN stage. That's where we're headed. And with all of you, I have no doubt, we'll get there.' A legacy rooted in nation-building
Founded in 1950, when the Philippines was rising from the rubble of war, MAP began as a small circle of visionaries who knew that rebuilding the nation required more than infrastructure — it needed ethical, skilled leadership. Founders of MAP, screen grab from the newly launched MAP video
Seventy-five years later, it has grown into a 1,200-strong alliance of nation-builders, whose member organizations contribute the majority of the country's GDP and market capitalization, including over 50 percent of the Top 100 Corporations. MAP members contribute the majority of the country's GDP and market cap
MAP's committees remain at the forefront of economic reform, public-private collaboration, sustainability, and inclusive growth — values it championed long before they became global buzzwords. Celebrating in style, with purpose
Produced and managed by NPM Group/New Perspective Marketing International Inc, led by CEO Dr. Karen Remo, who also serves as Co-Chair of the MAP Communications Committee, the evening featured the launch of MAP's new corporate video — a powerful chronicle of its post-war origins, enduring influence, and forward-looking vision. The 75th anniversary logo was designed by DDB Philippines headed by Gil Chua who also Co-Chair of the MAP Communications Committee. NPM Group CEO Dr. Karen Remo with COO Vince Ang, Ops and Sales Director Rain Dimalanta, Romer Tesado, Aren Moises, John Nocasa From left: MAP Co-Chair for Communications Dr. Karen Remo, MAP Governor and SGV Chairman Wilson Tan, and SGV Managing Partner Rossana Fajardo
The program honored MAP's most enduring members, recognized generous sponsors, and acknowledged the MAP Anniversary Ball Committee chaired by Maan Hontiveros who also emceed the event, with Vice Chair Mike Toledo, and Governor Noel Bonoan and Pres. Al Panlilio. Maan Hontiveros, MAP Governor and Managing Director of CEO Advisors
Guests raised their glasses for a ceremonial toast with the specially crafted MAP Ruby 75 signature cocktail — a blend created by 2023 Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year Aly Lorenzo, symbolizing MAP's spirited future.
MAP stalwarts Ambassador Jose Cuisia and Sec. Rene Almendras catch up during the evening's celebrations. From left: Sec. Fred Pascual and wife Carmen, MAP President Al Panlilio and wife Angela, Sec. Babes Singson, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner, and MAP Co-Chair for Communications & NPM Group Founder Dr. Karen Remo Government leaders join the celebration
Government officials were among the guests at the MAP's 75th anniversary gala, showing support for the organization's long-standing commitment to nation-building and responsible leadership. ARTA Secretary Perez and wife, with Dr. Remo NDC General Manager Saturnino Mejia and wife
Their presence reflected a shared goal of advancing programs and initiatives that promote economic growth, good governance, and community development, as MAP continues to strengthen its role both locally and in the wider ASEAN region. Music that moves, impact that lasts
The celebration reached its crescendo with a charity concert featuring the Manila Symphony Orchestra under Conductor Marlon Chen, Asia's Nightingale Lani Misalucha, and Philippines' Concert King Martin Nievera. Philippines' Concert King Martin Nievera Asia's Nightingale Lani Misalucha Conductor Marlon Chen
From Broadway medleys to OPM classics, the performances filled the ballroom with artistry and emotion.
Proceeds from the event are earmarked to go directly to MAP's CSR arm which focuses on health, education, and agribusiness and food security, extending its leadership impact beyond boardrooms into communities nationwide. Beyond the ballroom: leaders who work hard, play hard
As the formal program drew to a close, the energy simply shifted gears. The after-party was more than just a chance to unwind—it was a space where conversations deepened, alliances were forged, and ideas flowed as freely as the music.
In true MAP fashion, the celebration balanced gravitas with camaraderie, proving that the country's most influential leaders also know how to enjoy the moment. MAP VP and MPIC Head of Government Relations and Public Affairs Mike Toledo joins Martin Nievera for a show-stopping solo and duet Al Panlilio and Martin Nievera team up for an electrifying solo and duet Sec. Fred Pascual, former DTI Secretary and MAP President, and his wife Carmen share in the joy of song at the gala ball
This spirit of connection underscored a deeper truth: leadership is not only about boardrooms and bottom lines, but also about building trust, nurturing relationships, and finding common ground—even on the dance floor. MAP Governor and AC Health President & CEO Paolo Borromeo shares the dance floor with MAP's Next Gen MAP President Al Panlilio with MAP Next Gen Co-Chair Deliza Ridoloso and Vice Chair Natalia Peña Governors Rex Drilon and Noel Bonoan step into the celebratory close to the gala MAP Governors Gil Genio and Noel Bonoan Beyond the Next 75 Years
As the confetti fell and the dance floor came alive, the night closed not just on a celebration, but on a renewed mandate: for MAP to lead with integrity and vision, to shape leaders who can compete on the world stage, and to ensure the Philippines thrives in the decades ahead.
The celebration was made possible through the support of Co-presentors PLDT and SMART; Gold Partners BPI, Meralco, SGV & Company; Silver Partners Ayala Corporation, DMCI Holdings, Inc., SM Investments Corporation and BDO, SM Supermalls; and Bronze Partners AC Health, Forecasting and Planning Technologies, Inc., and Security Bank.