These words from MVP Group chair Manuel V. Pangilinan resonated deeply at the Asia CEO Awards 2025, where he received the Lifetime Contribution Award for his enduring leadership and impact on Philippine business and nation-building.
Integrity and service endure
In remarks delivered by Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen) president and CEO Emmanuel V. Rubio, Pangilinan reminded leaders that while achievements fade, integrity, perseverance, and service define true success.
After decades in business, he reflected that what endures are not titles or milestones but “the people who continue to believe that hard work—rendered with integrity and tenacity—still matters.”
He urged the youth to seek fulfillment not only in success but in service, stressing that the nation’s progress depends on future generations doing even better.
Recognizing purpose-driven companies
At the same event, PLDT and Smart—Pangilinan’s telco units—were named among the Circle of Excellence awardees for CSR Company of the Year, underscoring the PLDT group’s commitment to empowering communities through technology-enabled programs in digital wellness, resilience, education, and inclusion.
Now on its 16th year, the Asia CEO Awards remains the Philippines’ largest business awards program, celebrating leaders and enterprises whose vision and purpose continue to shape the nation’s future. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
