After a simple celebration of Isla Lipana & Co./PwC Philippines' 100th birthday on 22 June, the first of three major events happened on 1 July at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City — the centennial celebration "100 Years of Trusted Service" for clients and friends.
Our partners and managers welcomed guests at the foyer over cocktails, all excited to see each other after a long time. Photos and videos were taken at the selfie stations and centennial installations.
- Ushering everyone to the program were the dramatic theme setter video and dazzling opening number by Legato Visual Performing Arts.
- Chairman and Senior Partner Roderick Danao gave a warm welcome with a heartfelt speech.
- Chairman Emeritus and ESG Leader Alex Cabrera presented several pioneering initiatives for the centennial year.
- Deals & Corporate Finance Managing Partner and Markets Leader Mary Jade Divinagracia gave snapshots of our exciting current and future programs as part of the PwC network.
- Vice Chairperson and Tax Managing Partner Malou P. Lim led the formal tribute to former Chairman and Senior Partner Jose C. Florento, who recently passed.
- Former Chairman and Senior Partner Tammy H. Lipana recalled her outstanding career with the firm and introduced the keynote speaker.
- Former Chairman and Senior Partner Corazon S. de la Paz-Bernardo gave her keynote speech that recounted the highlights of her 20-year leadership of the firm.
- Assurance Managing Partner Aldie P. Garcia introduced our new thought leadership initiative with fellow centenarian companies.
- Consulting Managing Principal Veronica R. Bartolome delivered a stirring preamble to El Gamma Penumbra's intense performance that showcased photo-stories of Filipino values.
- PwC Glee, our 50-strong in-house singing group, gave a commanding performance of inspirational songs.
- PwC Glee led the well-received "100 Voices for Our 100 Years" segment where they sang live with 50 other employees from our other offices who pre-recorded their part.
- Roderick Danao and Malou Lim introduced all partners, including the newly admitted ones effective that day.
- Former Chairman and Senior Partner Judith Lopez led the ceremonial toast with a special message.
- Singer Morisette, dubbed as Asia's Phoenix, serenaded everyone towards the end of the evening.
- Seasoned journalist Mitzi Borromeo hosted the program.