Emerging from the pandemic, Filipinos and the entire world tried to find their footing to resume where they had left off in early 2020 when the pandemic started to unfold.

DAILY TRIBUNE believes that those who helped in the recovery phase that immediately kicked in for the Philippines, now among the world's economic stellar performers, deserve recognition.

Top Filipinos considered were personalities like Sabin Aboitiz who is spearheading a P380-billion "Great Transformation" of Aboitiz Equity Ventures, a century-old Philippine power and banking behemoth that emphasizes employing digital technology.

Aboitiz carried his advocacy for the use of modern technology in the post-pandemic era to the government through the Private Sector Advisory Council, which he heads.

Another candidate was PAL Holdings Inc. president Lucio Tan III who had led the infusion of fresh blood and new philosophies into the Lucio Tan group.

Taking on the reins of the Philippine Airlines parent company, Tan turned the airline around to profitability in the first year after the crippling effects of the global slowdown caused by Covid-19.

Also on the list was George Royeca, founder of ride-hailing firm Angkas, the motorcycle transport service using a computer application that more than 30,000 Filipinos relied on for their income during the pandemic.

Royeca, who calls his position on top of Angkas the Chief Transport Advocate, was also one of the leaders of the private sector consumer campaign in collaboration with the Inter-Agency Task Force against Emerging Infectious Diseases called Ingat Angat Tayong Lahat that brought together the largest brands and corporations in an overwhelming display of unity to boost consumer confidence.

He was named among the "pandemic batch" of the Ten Outstanding Young Men, or TOYM, awards.

Teresita Sy-Coson, vice chairperson of SM Investments Corporation, a company that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking and property, was also a strong contender for the award.

Sy-Coson is a pivotal figure in ventures that can capture high growth opportunities, thus is a major contributor to jobs generation, even during the pandemic.

She is currently chairperson of BDO Unibank, the Philippines' leading bank in terms of total assets, loans, deposits, capital and trust funds under management.

She is also an adviser to the board of directors of SM Prime Holdings Inc., one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia with interests in malls, residences, commercial buildings, leisure and tourism development.

DT's strict criteria

For 2023, DAILY TRIBUNE'S Filipino of the Year is International Container Terminal Services Inc. president and chairman Enrique K. Razon, as his aggressive global expansion meant that he contributed greatly not only to the sustenance of Filipinos but practically all of humanity when the plague was at its worst.

In the search for the Filipino of the Year, DAILY TRIBUNE editors used criteria that embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and serve as an inspirational role model for aspiring business leaders.

Among the attributes considered were:

1) Track record of navigating challenges, adapting to global dynamics and achieving milestones;

2) A commitment to innovation and the implementation of groundbreaking technologies;

3) Leadership qualities, including vision, strategic thinking and the ability to inspire and motivate others, and foster a culture of excellence;

4) Commitment to social responsibility, community development and ethical business practices to create positive change, support sustainable practices, and contribute to the welfare of society; and

5) The nominee's influence within their industry and country and their ability to drive change, create new opportunities and shape the business landscape.

Global factors favored Razon

Razon topped the DAILY TRIBUNE vote for his exceptional leadership and contribution to the global port business which spans Asia, the Americas, Europe and Africa.

His strategic vision and business acumen positioned ICTSI as a leading player in the global port industry, contributing significantly to the international trade and logistics network.

Razon's leadership elevated the Philippines' standing in the global business arena and contributed to economic growth.

ICTSI's success has created employment opportunities, facilitated trade and generated substantial revenue, thereby positively impacting the national and global economy.

Razon has also had an active involvement in various philanthropic endeavors, using his success in the global port business to give back to the community.

His leadership style and commitment to innovation set him apart in the business landscape.

The ability to navigate complex international markets, adapt to changing industry dynamics and drive technological advancements within the port business exemplify his exceptional leadership qualities.

Through his achievements on the global stage, Razon serves as an inspiration to aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs and business leaders.

His accomplishments have showcased the Filipino talent's potential and instilled a sense of national pride, serving as a role model for future generations.

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