Message

Back in 1949, when Ramon V. del Rosario Sr. was Founding President of the Manila Jaycees, he already saw what others did not or would not see at that time - Filipino managers leading international corporations and organizations, Filipino professionals building competitive enterprises and institutions, and Filipinos rising above personal ambition for the sake of the country. Clearly, he was a man of vision and whose principles have transcended his lifetime.

Monching and I met through the Jaycees and became lifelong friends. Through the many years of our association, we immersed ourselves in numerous pursuits an worked together in other initiatives like the Management Association of the Philippines and the Asian Institute of Management. These were, of course, in addition to our respective careers in business and industry. Yet, Monching always tempered ambition with his deep love for his country.

The Ramon V. del Rosario Award for Nation-Building is a most fitting tribute to Monching who spent much of his life promoting nationalism, good citizenry and sound business practice. Throughout his successful career as businessman, industrialist, and ambassador, Monching never lost sight of his vision to help build the Philippines. He had seen his country rise from the ashes of a World War and was determined to contribute positively to its growth and progress.

While I miss Monching as a friend, I find some solace in knowing that the JCI Manila has decided to perpetuate his ideals through this noble award.

Congratulations to the JCI Manila and to the future recipients of this award.

Washington SyCip
Founder
The SGV Group