DAILY TRIBUNE Silver Anniversary: Aligned corporate governance

DAILY TRIBUNE Silver Anniversary: Aligned corporate governance | Daily Tribune

Greetings on the 25th Anniversary of the DAILY TRIBUNE.

Warmest congratulations to the DAILY TRIBUNE on reaching a remarkable milestone—25 years of excellence in journalism, public service, and nation-building! This silver anniversary is not only a celebration of your legacy as a respected media institution but also a testament to your enduring commitment to truth, accountability, and relevance in an ever-evolving media landscape.

It is with deep appreciation that I also reflect on the parallel journey of the “Corporate Governance Matters” column which, although completing just its first year, has aligned with the country’s involvement and growth in good governance practices over the past 25 years.

At the turn of the century, corporate governance was still an emerging concept in the Philippines — understood by few, practiced inconsistently, and largely seen as a compliance requirement rather than a strategic imperative.

Today, it stands as a central pillar of institutional integrity and sustainable development in both the public and private sectors.

This transformation was made possible through the pioneering work of visionary leaders and the Philippine Father of Good Governance, Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao, whose founding of the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) and the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA) helped set the foundations for governance reform in the Philippines.

Estanislao’s foresight and these pivotal institutes not only shaped the country’s early corporate governance frameworks but also underscored the critical link between good governance and national competitiveness.

It is with great pride that this column through the vast reach of the Daily Tribune has chronicled, supported and analyzed these milestones and movements.

Equally important has been the role of key regulators and reform champions.

Previous Chairman Emilio B. Aquino of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has been instrumental in institutionalizing governance reforms through the implementation of the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard and championing investor protection measures.

As newly appointed SEC Chairman Atty. Francis Lim takes the helm, we are confident in his ability to continue this trajectory of transparency, innovation and regulatory excellence. Gladly, Chairman Lim is a proud product of the ICD and ISA.

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), key partners in the advocacy under the leadership of President Ramon Monzon and EVP Atty. Roel Refran, has advanced capital market development with an increased emphasis on corporate governance disclosure and board effectiveness.

The PSE’s efforts to align with international standards and engage listed companies in sustainability and accountability have provided momentum to governance reform at the boardroom level.

Likewise, the role of academia in embedding governance into the fabric of professional education cannot be overstated. Top universities such as the Ateneo de Manila University, the University of the Philippines, De La Salle University, and the University of Asia and the Pacific have integrated governance studies into their business and law curricula, producing a generation of governance-aware professionals and leaders.

As we mark Daily Tribune’s 25th year, it is fitting to recognize the role that consistent, informed, and responsible journalism plays in promoting good governance.

Through the “Corporate Governance Matters” column, it has been an honor to contribute to this mission — informing stakeholders, encouraging reform, and fostering a national dialogue on how governance affects strategy, performance and trust.

May theDAILY TRIBUNE continue to be a beacon of truth and progress for many more years to come. And may our shared pursuit of better governance lead to a stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient Philippines.

Warmest congratulations once again.