On March 25, 2025, I had the privilege of representing John Clements Consultants, Inc. (JCCI) as a Silver Sponsor at the 1st Pancho Villaraza Cup, held in celebration of Villaraza & Angangco (V&A Law)’s 45th Anniversary. The event took place at the iconic 18-hole West Course of Wack Wack Golf & Country Club in Mandaluyong City—one of the Philippines’ most storied golf courses, renowned for its challenging layout and lush surroundings. Nestled in the heart of Metro Manila, it offers a green oasis just minutes from the city’s usual pace.
A Warm and Relaxed Start
It was my first time playing at Wack Wack, and the course truly delivered an exceptional experience. Fortunately, it’s just a 20-minute drive from my place, so I arrived 15 minutes before registration and enjoyed a classic Bangsilog breakfast (fried bangus, egg, and garlic rice). While dining, I shared a table with Mr. Vic Vallador, father of Atty. Mark Benjamin Yam, a representative from GCash and other players. The friendly exchange made for a relaxed and enjoyable start to the day.
Setting the Tone for the Tournament
The official tee-off was led by Atty. Raoul Angangco, brother of Atty. Arthur “Pancho” Villaraza, alongside other key members of The Firm. Their presence set a lively and collegial tone for the tournament, which gathered over 100 players from a wide mix of lawyers, corporate sponsors, and industry partners. For me, the event was particularly meaningful as Villaraza & Angangco, known in legal circles simply as The Firm, is also a trusted legal partner of John Clements—making our participation a witness to its celebration.
Meaningful Connections on and off the Course
Before the round began, I had the pleasure of meeting the members of V&A Law’s legal team assigned to John Clements—Atty. Sylvette Tankiang, Atty. Mark Benjamin Yam, and Atty. Maria Francesca Vergara, as well as representatives from GCash and other organizations. I was paired with PAGCOR representatives, one of the event’s Platinum Sponsors, and their on-the-spot golf tips, combined with the guidance of an attentive caddie, proved valuable throughout the game. One of my cartmates even earned 1st Runner-Up in the Class A Division, making our round even more exciting.
Strengthening Professional Relationships Over Lunch
A thoughtful element of the lunch reception was that each table included a representative from The Firm, which naturally encouraged engaging conversations, not just among players, but also with members of the V&A team. It was a subtle yet effective way to foster a sense of community and deepen professional connections.
Lunch was another highlight: a sumptuous buffet featuring pasta, fresh salads, lechon beef, tuna sashimi, and elegant Bizu desserts. While I didn’t win in the digital tambiolo raffle, two guests at our table did, bringing a fun and festive energy to the gathering.
A Distinguished Gathering
Adding to the event’s prestige was the presence of House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who was seated at a neighboring table, contributing to the celebratory and distinguished atmosphere.
More Than a Tournament
As The Firm marked 45 years of legal excellence, the tournament served not only as a tribute to Atty. Arthur “Pancho” Villaraza, but also as a celebration of enduring partnerships, such as the one between V&A Law and John Clements. It was a day filled with great conversations, memorable golf moments, and a renewed appreciation for the strong relationships that help shape our professional communities.
The 1st Pancho Villaraza Cup was more than a golf tournament—it was a celebration of heritage, excellence, and meaningful collaboration. I’m truly grateful to have taken part in it.
Connect Beyond the Course
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