Stronger Together: MBC Celebrates Collaboration
at Annual Partners’ Night

30 January 2025 – MBC celebrated the power of collaboration and the strength of valued partnerships, at its annual Partners’ Night at New World Hotel, Makati. The evening served as a platform for meaningful discussions, fostering connections, and reinforcing our commitment to collective growth.

The event brought together over 70 high-level attendees, including C-suite executives, government agency leaders, ambassadors, and foreign dignitaries. Guests engaged in insightful conversations, exchanging ideas and exploring opportunities to work together on impactful initiatives.

Beyond networking, the event underscored MBC’s dedication to driving long-term partnerships that contribute to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. With inspiring discussions and shared visions, Partners’ Night set the stage for even greater collaboration in the years ahead.

MBC Chairman Edgar Chua welcomed the attendees, and expressed his gratitude to the partner organizations for the support that they provide to MBC’s various initiatives.

“Tonight, we celebrate not just our achievements but the collective efforts of everyone in this room. Leaders like you inspire us to do more,” Chua said.

It was echoed by MBC Vice Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala (JAZA) who gave an appreciation message and highlighted the shared milestones and achievements for the past year.

JAZA shared that MBC has made great strides—engaging with global leaders like the U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon while strengthening ties with major business delegations from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the U.S.

In 2024, MBC launched and hosted four (4) flagship events:

• Agriculture & Food Security Summit – Convened 200+ leaders to tackle critical food security challenges.
• Business-Government Partnership Summit – Brought together dynamic LGU leaders like Makati Mayor Abby Binay and Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong.
• Digital Democracy Awards – Honored 14 LGUs for governance innovation.
• MBC’s First Golf Event – United 100+ members & partners while raising funds for global

JAZA reaffirmed the organization’s priorities: “MBC remains committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, ensuring business continues to serve as a force for good.”
After their remarks, MBC’s Senior Director for Partnership & Operations Michelle Dee, together with Projects & Grants Manager Geeta Keswani, and Membership & Events Head – Bianca Castro led the acknowledgement of sponsors and funders.

Lastly, MBC Executive Director Apa Ongpin shared the exciting plans of the organization in 2025.

MBC continues to build stronger partnerships with both the private and public sectors, as well as international organizations and representatives, providing a platform for its members and partners to engage in discussions on global competitiveness and responsible business.