WINNING | Bali forum spotlights Asia’s shift to science-led ESG

Insider Spotlight

• Bali gathering highlights Asia’s move toward measurable, science-aligned ESG
• ACES Awards 2025 showcased stronger governance, transparency, and IFRS-ready reporting
• Philippine companies emerged as standout repeat sustainability performers
  

Asia’s corporate sector signaled a decisive move toward science-based, data-driven sustainability as leaders convened in Bali for a regional gathering spotlighting measurable environmental and social progress.

The shift took center stage during the opening night of the ACES Awards 2025, where winners were recognized for disciplined, transparent, and evidence-backed sustainability practices. 

“The 2025 Sustainability Award winners represent the strongest examples of responsible leadership in Asia today. They have demonstrated discipline, transparency, and genuine long-term commitment to measurable environmental and social impact,” said Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, CEO of MORS Group, in a press release. 

“Their efforts reaffirm that sustainability and business excellence are deeply interconnected, and we applaud their role in moving the region forward.”

By the numbers

The Awards hit a milestone with 827 nominations from 32 countries. After 946 evaluation hours, 381 finalists were shortlisted and 111 winners named.

Why it matters

Companies across Asia are rapidly shifting from aspirational ESG commitments to verifiable results. The Sustainability Category saw strengthened criteria in 2025, emphasizing science-based targets, circularity, resource stewardship, and alignment with IFRS S1 and S2.

Notable winners

• CPC Corp., Taiwan – Top Sustainability Advocates in Asia
• Globe Telecom – Asia's Best Workplace of the Year
• Development Bank of the Philippines – Top Community Centric Companies in Asia
• Foundever Philippines Corp. – Top Workplaces & Community Centric Companies
• Henderson Land Development Co. Ltd. – Asia's Most Sustainable Company of the Year

Return winners — Philippines spotlight

Several Philippine companies reaffirmed their regional leadership with repeat wins:

• Maynilad Water Services Inc.
• San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp.
• Cebu Landmasters Inc.
• Takeda Healthcare Philippines, Inc.
• BDO Unibank

These returning winners demonstrated measurable carbon and waste reductions, expanded community development programmes, and more robust governance systems.

Driving the trend

Judges noted a shift toward quantified impact, verifiable emissions pathways, and improved reporting comparability. 

Companies also cited the harmonizing role of IFRS S1 and S2 amid overlapping ESG frameworks.

What’s next 

Day One closed with the Visionary’s Gold Centaur, Maestro’s Onyx Centaur, and Virtuoso’s Black and Gold Centaur trophies — setting the tone for Day Two’s focus on leadership and workplace excellence. —Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma