The 2025 International Tax and Investment Conference, held on March 26 at the Manila Marriott Hotel, brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators to advance Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles for inclusive and resilient growth. Organized by the Asian Consulting Group (ACG), the event reinforced its commitment to fostering sustainable investment and responsible business practices.
The conference featured dynamic panel discussions on key sectors, including sustainable tourism, AI-driven agriculture, and the creative industries’ shift toward responsible innovation. Department of Tourism Asec. Sharlene Zabala-Batin highlighted cultural preservation and eco-friendly travel, while HSBC’s Ceejay Hernandez emphasized sustainable finance’s role in building greener economies. Social entrepreneur Illac Diaz of Liter of Light demonstrated how renewable energy solutions empower underserved communities.
In technology and agriculture, Dr. Donald Lim of DITO CME explored AI’s potential to revolutionize industries, while IMI’s Sherwin Nones discussed sustainability in food production. Century Pacific’s Gregory Banzon underscored ethical sourcing, and Christophe Bariou showcased eco-friendly practices in hospitality and agriculture. Meanwhile, international fashion designers Bench Bello, Marjorie Renner, John Guarnes, and Ranel Espaldon introduced innovative approaches to responsible fashion, with insights from DTI Asec. Nylah Bautista and Esme Palaganas of the Philippine Fashion Coalition on promoting inclusivity and ethical design.
The event also recognized leaders in sustainability through the ACG Global Awards, honoring key government officials for their contributions to economic growth. Among them were PEZA Director General Tereso Panga, Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Frasco, DTI Asec. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Agriculture Undersecretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, SEC Chairman Emilio Aquino, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, and Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go.
The event also launched the International Tax and Investment Roadshow, a global initiative connecting investors and policymakers across Asia, Australia, the Middle East, the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
ACG spearheaded the initiative, with Founder and CEO Mon Abrea as Lead Convenor, ACG President and COO Hazel Mendoza as Chair, and Independent Director Bing Limjoco as Vice Chair. ACG’s Board of Directors—Chairman Jose Magsaysay, Jr., Treasurer Bong Aspe, Corporate Secretary Atty. Magilyn Loja, and Independent Director Bing Limjoco—played a key role in the discussions. The ACG Board of Advisors, composed of Eric Pike Caeg, Santi Dumlao, Rowel Barba, and Atty. Eileen Agila, provided strategic guidance on advancing ESG-driven reforms.
As ACG continues to lead efforts in promoting responsible investment and sustainability, it invites businesses, policymakers, and industry leaders to collaborate in advancing ESG initiatives.
Partner with ACG to drive sustainable investments and responsible business growth. Learn more at www.acg.ph.
