Grace Vera Cruz, country head at Grab Philippines, was recently recognized as this year’s Business Leader of the Year at Campaign Magazine’s Women Leading Change Awards Asia-Pacific.
“This recognition is a testament to the collective hard work, dedication, and vision of the entire Grab Philippines community – all guided by our philosophy of lifting as we rise,” she added.
“I am both honored and humbled to be named Business Leader of the Year at the Women Leading Change Awards Asia-Pacific. I share this honor with the many Filipina business leaders and changemakers, as well as with all Grabbers,” Vera Cruz said in a statement on Friday.
Vera Cruz led Grab’s charge in provincial areas, allowing the ride-hailing giant to expand in over 100 cities across the country.
“This growth was instrumental in promoting a more balanced regional development, primarily through the introduction of GrabCar and GrabFood in more areas in the Visayas and Mindanao regions – with offerings that are tailor-fitted to the needs of the local communities,” the company said.
This was backed by a recent study by the University of Asia and the Pacific’s Center for Research and Communications, which showed significant multiplier effects generated by Grab apart from multi-billion peso contributions to the Philippine economy.
“As we navigate the complexities of our rapidly evolving landscape, we remain steadfast in our commitment to pioneering innovative, sustainable, and inclusive solutions to improve the quality of life of all Filipinos,” said Vera Cruz.
“This recognition propels us forward, reinforcing our mission of shaping a brighter, more inclusive, and more connected future for our nation,” she added.
Other female leader honorees included Fintech Woman Leader Geraldine Wong of GXS Bank in Singapore, CEO of the Year Kate Bayona-Garcia of Publicis Groupe Vietnam, and Young Business Leader of the Year Melody Laogan of Initiative Philippines.
