This year marked a significant milestone for one of the Asian Institute of Management’s (AIM) most successful programs, the 25th anniversary of the Master in Entrepreneurship (ME). The celebration, long overdue, was more than just a tribute to the program’s success. It was an evocative commemoration of its legacy, the thriving community of successful alumni it has produced, and its continuing contribution to nation-building.
From L-R: Paco Magsaysay (ME 2008), Prof. Maya Herrera, Illac Diaz (ME 2001), Annie Tanchanco (ME 2000), Dee Ledonio (ME 2002), Joe Magsaysay (ME 2001), Don Buhain (ME 2000), Prof. Chris Monterola, Bernie Jiao (MBM 1989), Prof. Eric Caeg (ME 2002)
Originally planned for 2020 to commemorate the program’s 20th year, the celebration had to be rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. What would have been a major highlight that year became a five-year wait. But the delay only added to the excitement and significance of the event when it finally took place. The long wait was worth every moment as more graduates have joined the ranks of alumni and actively participated in the planning and festivities.
In all its years at AIM, the ME program has always stood as a beacon of excellence in educating generations of entrepreneurs, consistently producing graduates who go on to lead family corporations, launch impactful ventures, and be at the forefront of innovation. ME alumni have built a reputation for leadership, strategic thinking, and ethical practice—qualities that have helped strengthen the communities they serve and drive economic growth. The anniversary was the perfect occasion to celebrate this proud legacy, highlighting the many ways alumni have transformed and grown their enterprises through strategic and sustainable business practices.
The 25th anniversary was more than a nostalgic look back. Rather, it was a vibrant, forward-looking celebration. The ME’s return to AIM in 2016 added another layer of meaning to the festivities. After a decade’s absence, the event marked a symbolic comeback of the program’s roots, values, and tradition. For many attendees—alumni, faculty, and students alike—it was a cheerful homecoming of the AIM ME community on the campus that had played a memorable role in their personal and professional growth.
True to the ME’s spirit of excellence and flair, the 25th anniversary was no ordinary affair. It unfolded as a 3-in-1 whole day celebration that featured an Expo, a conference, and a dinner reunion, blending the theme “Connecting Networks, Rekindling Ties, and Strengthening Communities.” The morning kicked off with a vibrant expo featuring 30 exhibitors, the majority of whom were alumni, showcasing their innovative products and services. From tech-driven solutions to design-forward merchandise and services, the expo highlighted the diverse talent and entrepreneurial spirit fostered by the ME program.
From L-R: Cathy Ajas (ME 2025), Prof. Eric Caeg (ME Academic Program Director and ME 2002), Jaana Fernandez (ME 2024), Illac Diaz (ME ), Dee Ledonio (Expo Project Head and ME 2002), Vangie Abella (ME 2022), Prof. Maya Herrera, Art Jumarang (ME 2022)
The event then segued into a whole-day conference that brought together thought leaders, alumni, and special guests for a series of high-level panel discussions. Topics ranged from “The Changing Business Landscape” to “Building a Global Brand” and “Supply Chain Automation,” offering insights into the future of entrepreneurship and enterprise in a rapidly evolving world. Other key sessions explored “Social Entrepreneurship and Inclusive Innovation,” “AI for Entrepreneurs,” “Succession Planning for Family Businesses,” and “Beyond the Bottom Line.” Each talk emphasized the importance of adaptability, sustainability, and purpose—hallmarks of the program’s curriculum and culture.
Attendees left the conference not only informed but also inspired. Many remarked about the quality of the panel discussions and the richness of perspectives brought to the table. The sessions provided an opportunity to hear from seasoned experts, industry practitioners, and visionary founders, many of whom were ME alumni. The message was clear: the ME program continues to be a force for value creation, equipping future leaders to navigate complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Jikyeong Kang, AIM President and Dean, delivering her keynote speech during the Conference
Prof. Maya Herrera with the panel on “Changing Business Landscape” Annie Tanchanco (ME 2000), Louie Gutierrez (ME 2001), Paco Magsaysay (ME 2008)
From L-R: Event host Sy Bryan Lato (ME 2025), Moderator Jaime Garchitorena (ME 2001), Panel on “Building a Filipino Brand” Joe Magsaysay (ME 2000) and Len Cabili (ME 2001), Prof. Eric Caeg
Talk on Supply Chain Automation with Adrian Dan of R. Dan and Co.
Talk on “AI on Entrepreneurial Businesses” with Donald Lim, President and CEO of DITO Telecommunications
Panel on “Engaging the Next Generation” featuring Mary Grace Dimacali (ME 2001) with her daughters Marian and Chiara, and Don Buhain (ME 2000) with his son Dominic, and Prof. Maya Herrera
Panel on “Family Corporation: Leveraging a Professional Board” featuring Manila Central University’s Executive Vice Chairman Atty. Juan Crisostomo Echiverri and Executive Vice President Chynna Gonzalez (ME 2018) with Prof. Eric Caeg
Panel on “Beyond the Bottom Line” featuring Louie Gutierrez (ME 2000) and Illac Diaz (ME 2001) with Prof. Maya Herrera, Prof. Eric Caeg, and Sy Bryan Lato (ME 2025)
As night fell, more alumni and guests joined the lively and sumptuous reunion dinner. Held at the newly renovated Team Energy Bridging Leadership Halls 1 and 2, the evening brought together generations of alumni, faculty, and friends in a celebration of shared experiences and renewed commitment to the institute, the program, and the ME community. Stories were exchanged, friendships rekindled, and new connections forged. The atmosphere was festive and imbued with a deep sense of gratitude and pride. Music, laughter, and exuberant voices filled the air, delighting everyone as lifelong bonds were formed with newfound friends.
Bernie Jiao, Alumni Relations Office Executive Managing Director, giving his welcome address to attendees of the ME Reunion
Prof. Maya Herrera sharing the history of the ME program
All in all, the event was not just a remembrance of the years; it was a celebration of people, purpose, and the never-ending quest for excellence. It highlighted the program’s enduring relevance in an age of disruption and the alumni’s power to lead, inspire, and transform lives, businesses, and communities. More importantly, it reminded everyone of the collective responsibility to continue the mission: to educate, to innovate, and to build a better future for all.
Prof. Richard Cruz with ME alumni
Awarding of certificate of appreciation for Paolo Bediones (ME 2021) as host of the ME Reunion
Prof. Eric Caeg during the announcement of ME Alumni Association
As the ME program looks ahead to the next 25 years, one thing is certain: it will continue to be at the cutting edge of entrepreneurial proficiency to help enterprises grow and become sustainable. With a strong curriculum and faculty, a supportive alumni network, and a renewed sense of mission, the next 25 years promise to be just as impactful and relevant as the last.
