The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) held its annual inauguration ceremony on January 15, 2025, at Shangri-La The Fort to introduce its new officers and celebrate leadership excellence. The event featured Manny Pangilinan, Metro Pacific Group’s Chairman, who was awarded Man of the Year and delivered an insightful keynote speech. The highlight of the event was the formal oath-taking of the new leadership team, conducted by Pangilinan, followed by a speech from Alfredo “Al” S. Panlilio, the newly elected MAP President.
Inauguration of New MAP Officers
During the ceremony, the newly appointed officers of MAP were officially sworn into office, with Alfredo “Al” S. Panlilio, Chair of Maya Bank, assuming the role of the 77th President. Al expressed his gratitude to the outgoing officers and emphasized MAP’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Under his leadership, MAP aims to champion management excellence and innovation in the Philippines. The new leadership team includes:
- Alfredo “Al” S. Panlilio – President (Chair, Maya Bank)
- Marianne “Maan” B. Hontiveros – Governor (Managing Director, CEO Advisors, Inc.)
- Rene D. Almendras – Governor (Consultant, Ayala Corporation)
- Gil B. Genio – Secretary (Independent Director, GT Capital Holdings)
- Wilson P. Tan – Treasurer (Chair and Country Managing Partner, SGV & Co. – EY Philippines)
- Michael “Mike” T. Toledo – Vice President (Director for Government and Public Affairs, MPIC)
- Paolo F. Borromeo – Assistant Treasurer (President and CEO, Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. – AC Health)
- Noel P. Bonoan – Governor (Vice Chair, COO, and Head of Advisory, KPMG R. G. Manabat & Co.)
- Rex C. Drilon II – Governor (Vice Chair, Center for Excellence in Governance)
Al Panlilio’s Vision for MAP
In his speech, Al outlined his vision for MAP under the theme “Management Excellence for a Progressive Philippines.” He also shared his commitment to launching initiatives that will reinforce MAP’s relevance in an evolving business landscape. His priorities for the organization include:
- Expanding Member Engagement – Strengthening connections with members nationwide and fostering collaboration across industries.
- Policy Advocacy – Supporting business-friendly policies to enhance competitiveness.
- Sustainability and Governance – Driving responsible business practices that promote ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
- Investing in Future Leaders – Developing programs to nurture young professionals and equip them with essential leadership skills.
Key Insights from Manny Pangilinan’s Speech and Q&A Session
Manny Pangilinan’s keynote address and the following Q&A session offered valuable insights into leadership, technological transformation, and corporate governance.
1. Leadership and Personal Growth
Manny opened his speech with a personal story, recounting how he first met Al Panlilio in an unexpected setting. He emphasized how professional relationships often grow from chance encounters and stressed the importance of family and mentorship in leadership development.
2. Embracing AI and Technological Change
A significant focus of his speech was on overcoming the fear of technological advancements, particularly AI. He highlighted AI’s potential to address pressing business and societal issues, such as:
- Food Redistribution – Reducing waste and ensuring food security.
- Supply Chain Optimization – Enhancing efficiency and reducing overproduction.
3. Challenges in AI Adoption
During the Q&A, Manny urged businesses to take a proactive approach to adopting AI, focusing on innovation rather than resistance to change. He then addressed key barriers to AI adoption, including:
- Data Quality Issues – The need for reliable and structured data.
- Talent Shortage – A lack of skilled professionals in AI and data science.
- Infrastructure Limitations – The need for better systems and faster networks.
4. Leadership Succession and Generational Collaboration
Manny emphasized that an effective blend of generations can foster innovation and continuity within businesses. One of the key topics discussed was leadership succession within organizations, highlighting the importance of integrating multiple generations in leadership roles:
- Millennials and Gen Z: Bringing tech-savviness and innovation.
- Gen X and Boomers: Providing strategic experience and stability.
5. Disaster Preparedness and Resilience
Manny emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness, citing proactive measures such as:
- Improved Forecasting Systems – Leveraging technology to predict natural disasters.
- Infrastructure Development – Burying power lines to mitigate typhoon damage.
- Community Resilience – Relocating affected communities and providing livelihood opportunities.
6. Corporate Governance and Shared Prosperity
In closing, Manny reiterated the critical role of good corporate governance in building a sustainable business environment. He advocated for:
- Transparency and Accountability – Upholding ethical business practices.
- Social Responsibility – Ensuring businesses contribute to national development.
- Correcting Past Mistakes – Learning from governance challenges to build a better future.
7. Leadership with Optimism and Action
Manny Pangilinan ended his speech with words of encouragement, citing leadership as a balance of hope and decisive action. He referenced a quote by Margaret Mead, urging business leaders to stay hopeful and proactive in facing challenges.
Moving Forward with Optimism
The MAP inauguration event was a celebration of leadership and collaboration, with both Al Panlilio and Manny Pangilinan setting the tone for a progressive future. Panlilio’s roadmap for MAP, coupled with Pangilinan’s valuable insights on technology and leadership, underscored the importance of adaptability and ethical governance in today’s evolving business landscape.
With a strong leadership team in place, MAP is well-positioned to drive meaningful change and support the country’s economic growth through innovation, sustainability, and collective action.
*MAP members and stakeholders are encouraged to actively participate in upcoming initiatives and contribute to the organization’s mission of fostering management excellence.
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The leadership insights shared by Al Panlilio and Manny Pangilinan at the MAP Inauguration showcase the importance of innovation, governance, and generational collaboration. Is your organization ready to adopt these principles and thrive in today’s evolving business landscape?
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