As we approach the upcoming year, let’s recall the significant event highlights from John Clements Consultants in 2023.
JANUARY
Weekly With JC—The State of Our Economy: What We Need to Know for 2023
The 2023 kickoff of the Weekly with JC (WWJC) Industry Briefing Series featured economist Carlo Asuncion from Union Bank of the Philippines, Michael Ricafort from RCBC, Dr. Alvin P. Ang of Ateneo de Manila University, and Alex Escucha, ex-Senior VP at China Banking Corporation. They analyzed Philippine economic trends, job sectors, and global influences, offering insights into the year ahead, balancing optimism and potential challenges shaping the economy in 2023.
Weekly With JC— Banking: What Will Fuel Growth in 2023
The second WWJC event featured discussions led by banking experts Emmanuel G. Herbosa, Raoul A. Villegas, and Jonathan L. Ravelas. They explored the rise of loans in key sectors, emphasized the significance of digital infrastructure for banking growth, highlighted the need for financial literacy, and advocated for local production to strengthen economic resilience in the Philippines for 2023.
FEBRUARY
Weekly With JC—Riding the Disruptive Wave of E-Commerce
The third Weekly with JC event explored Philippine e-commerce, led by Diana Fung of Home De Luxe, Hong Kong. Fung highlighted the market’s tech-savvy demographic and the dominance of Shopee and Lazada. Despite a temporary dip in online spending post-pandemic, experts foresee sustained growth. Government support is seen as crucial for market maturity, while opportunities in regions beyond Luzon remain untapped. The industry anticipates significant growth leveraging social media and digital payments in the coming years.
Weekly With JC— IT-BPM: An Indispensable Pillar of the Economy
The IT-BPM industry briefing featured leaders Jack Madrid, Joseph Paperman, and Rafael de Mesa, who discussed the sector’s impact on the Philippine economy. Their aim: generate jobs and foster growth. Despite challenges like talent supply and misconceptions about risks, the industry has expanded steadily. Plans include decentralizing jobs and diversifying hiring practices for holistic growth. Prioritizing infrastructure investment and reshaping perceptions about the country are key strategies to achieve long-term goals, aiming for top-tier employment, improved customer experience, and global leadership.
MARCH
Team JC at the NASSCOM Technology and Leadership Conference 2023
On March 1-2, 2023, Team John Clements attended the NASSCOM Technology and Leadership Forum in Mumbai, India. The forum covered topics on digitalization, automation, and tech trends, emphasizing India’s ambitions to be a major technology player through initiatives backed by government infrastructure projects aimed at transforming the country into a top tech hub. Discussions showcased India’s aspirations as a global innovation hub, hosting numerous startups and unicorns, and attracting significant foreign direct investment.
Weekly With JC— What’s Next for Technology?
The next installment of the WWJC industry briefing series focused on the post-pandemic outlook for the technology sector. Aileen Judan Jiao, IBM Philippines’ President, shed light on how various industries adapted technologically during and after the pandemic. Retail unexpectedly emerged as a standout performer, followed by energy and utilities. Key trends for 2023 encompass talent shortages, intricate customer privacy concerns, robust supply chains, impactful sustainability strategies, and expanded cyber risks. Striking a balance between employee well-being and productivity in hybrid work setups remained a critical concern, highlighting technology’s pivotal role in navigating this post-pandemic era.
Weekly With JC— FinTech Frontier: Trends and Innovations
The Philippine FinTech industry took center stage at the next Weekly with JC event. Lito Villanueva, RCBC’s Chief Innovations & Inclusion Officer, led discussions with panelists Rowena Zamora from GCash and Mike Singh from Union Digital Bank. The panel emphasized pandemic challenges and FinTech’s role in the country’s recovery, stressing how digital finance aided access to essential services during restricted mobility. It touched on President Marcos’s digital Philippines initiative, FinTech support for SME credit access, and innovations in credit scoring. Addressing connectivity gaps and credit obstacles, the event concluded optimistically, highlighting FinTech’s crucial role in post-pandemic recovery.
Weekly With JC— Creating Sustainable Healthcare Solutions
The 7th Weekly with JC session, featuring the healthcare industry, centered on addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Philippines. The discussion highlighted the urgency of tackling lifestyle-driven diseases like diabetes and lung ailments, which significantly impact Filipino mortality. Emphasizing early intervention and lifestyle changes, the session stressed collaboration between public and private sectors. Advocacy for cost-effective healthcare, early detection strategies, policy reforms, and leveraging technology to enhance healthcare solutions was underscored amidst the country’s growing NCD crisis.
Weekly With JC— Sharing the Secrets of Shared Services
The Weekly with JC session titled “Sharing the Secrets of Shared Services” featured Carlo Mata, Director of Philippine Operations at White & Case. Panelists included Roger Salazar, Country General Manager of R1RCM, and Salman Ahmed Siddiqui, Executive Director of Strategy and Planning, Asset and Wealth Management at JP Morgan Chase, Philippines. The discussion explored effective strategies within the shared services industry, offering insights and best practices from seasoned professionals, fostering a constructive dialogue on industry methodologies and successful approaches.
Weekly With JC— Philippine Property Sector Trends, Outlook and Challenges
In this installment of Weekly with JC, Vince Abejo, President of Cadence Property Development Corp., alongside Phillip Anonuevo from Leechiu Property Consultants and Eric Manuel of Arch Capital Management, discussed Philippine property trends. The dialogue addressed global economic impacts, including the Ukrainian conflict and inflation, affecting construction costs and property prices. Insights focused on behavioral shifts driving real estate opportunities, proposals to decongest Metro Manila, and innovative strategies for personalized spaces and improved customer experiences using data analytics. Despite the housing backlog and uncertainties, the sector anticipates a 2023 recovery, subject to vigilant inflation monitoring and adaptive responses.
APRIL
Weekly With JC— Watt’s Next? The Future of Renewable Energy
Watt’s Next? The Future of Renewable Energy” was the last WWJC industry briefing session. Francis Giles Puno, President and COO of First Gen, led the discussion alongside Atty. Jose Layug from Divina Law Offices and Dennis Ibarra, GM of BECIS. Puno highlighted First Gen’s commitment to clean energy, mentioning their significant role in providing 20% of the country’s power supply from eco-friendly sources. The conversation explored the impending depletion of Malampaya gas, leading First Gen to partner with Tokyo Gas for an LNG offshore terminal. The panel stressed the urgent need to shift faster towards renewable sources, discussing opportunities and challenges in the evolving energy landscape.
Weekly with JC Fireside Chat—Demystifying Tomorrow’s Leaders through the HR Lens
Following the Weekly with JC Industry Briefing Series, the WWJC Leadership and HR Series kicked off with “Demystifying Tomorrow’s Leaders through the HR Lens” on April 28, 2023. Panelists Ardhi Lufti Siregar of Manulife Global Business Services, Ma. Elizabeth D. Nasol of Energy Development Corporation, and Paolo T. Garcia of Marsh McLennan Philippines shared perspectives on leadership qualities and challenges. Discussions centered on adaptable leadership, learning from mistakes, and integrating AI as a supportive tool. The session explored talent-spotting strategies, emphasizing standout characteristics for senior leader recognition, navigating the evolving leadership landscape.
MAY
Weekly with JC Fireside Chat— Crafting Compelling Tales: Using Stories to Drive Business Outcomes
At the 2nd WWJC Leadership and HR Series, panelists including Sam White, HR Director of Ingram Micro, Riza Mantaring, former CEO of Sun Life Financial Philippines, and Horia Adrian, CEO of Holcim Philippines, shared impactful stories. Discussions emphasized crafting relatable, authentic stories for organizational impact, highlighting simplicity, relatability, authenticity, and two-way communication. Key takeaways focused on storytelling techniques and creating enjoyable work environments for the younger generation.
Weekly with JC Fireside Chat— Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: A Blueprint for a Better Workplace
In the third session of the WWJC Leadership and HR Series, the discussion centered around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Speakers like Junie Del Mundo of EON Group and Chiles De Leon from QIAGEN Manila highlighted DEI’s significance in fostering innovation and optimizing team dynamics. Marianne Hontiveros, Partner at CEO of Advisors, Inc., emphasized the democratic essence of DEI, drawing examples from unbiased music auditions and attitude-based recruitment practices at AirAsia.
AffinidiXJC— Shaping Culture and Engagement in a Digital World
On the morning of May 17, 2023, John Clements Consultants collaborated with Affinidi to host a discussion on employee engagement and retention strategies at the JC Hub. Led by Angelena Cala, People Strategy Adviser at Affinidi, and James Liu, Behavior Analyst at Affinidi, the session explored fostering a robust company culture, integrating technology, and the significance of empowering employees. Carol Dominguez, President and CEO of John Clements, highlighted the importance of fostering staff connections for a more cohesive workplace.
AffinidiXJC— Scaling the Philippines’ Lead in the Global BPO Industry
In the afternoon, the team gathered at the Manila Golf Club for a discussion on the challenges faced by the BPO sector in digital education, focusing on issues such as content overload, critical thinking, and adaptability. The impact of the “Great Resignation” was highlighted, shedding light on the post-pandemic work landscape. Angelena Cala introduced Wallie, an employee-centric personal wallet by Affinidi, aiming to enhance learning culture and credential management. The session concluded by emphasizing the importance of a people-centered approach amidst technological integration in the BPO sector.
Weekly with JC Fireside Chat—Sustainability Superheroes: Inspiring Change in Business and Beyond
The next episode of the Weekly with JC Leadership and HR Series featured discussions on corporate sustainability in the Philippines. Mariglo Laririt of Ten Knots Development Corporation and Koleen Davila-Palaganas from SM Investments Corporation explored the intricate balance between business profitability and environmental responsibility. Moderated by Alicia Morales from the John Clements Leadership Institute, the conversation emphasized the challenges of harmonizing economic growth with environmental conservation, stressing the need for collective action among corporations, governments, and individuals for a more prosperous and equitable future.
JC X UP CAP Career Coaching Program
The JC x UP CAP Career Coaching Program, initiated by a collaboration between U.P. Virata School of Business, UP Career Assistance Program (CAP), and John Clements Consultants, aimed to equip graduating students with essential career skills. Launched in March 2023, the ten-week program provided weekly workshops and personalized coaching sessions, covering topics like networking, personal branding, and interview preparation. Dean Gina Lizares expressed gratitude to Carol Dominguez for her significant contributions and emphasized the pioneering participants’ role in refining the program. With a memorable graduation ceremony on May 22, 2023, participants praised the program’s impact on their career readiness and expressed eagerness to apply newfound skills in their professional lives.
JUNE
Weekly with JC Fireside Chat—The Road to Influence: Discovering Your Path to Power
In this episode of Weekly with JC Leadership and HR Series, Grace Sorongon Senior VP of John Clements Consultants initiated a discussion on “The Road to Influence: Discovering Your Path to Power.” Joined by panelists Atty. Jamea Garcia from Alorica, Atty. Emerico De Guzman of ACCRALAW, and Morris Agudo of MV Softtech, the session discussed self-awareness in leadership, recognizing team strengths, and the nuanced difference between influence and power. Key insights highlighted the value of embracing mistakes, appreciating diverse perspectives, and inspiring through example rather than mere demonstration, aiming to guide individuals toward impactful leadership and influential paths in their personal and professional lives.
Weekly with JC Fireside Chat—Leading Through Chaos: Strategies for Success in Times of Uncertainty
“Leading Through Chaos: Strategies for Success in Times of Uncertainty” was the last session of the WWJC Leadership and HR Series. The Fireside Chat featured industry leaders Rosemarie Rafael from AIC Group of Companies Holding Corporation, David Leechiu of Leechiu Property Consultants, Inc., and Angelina Mukhi, HR Strategy Advisor. Discussions revolved around decision integrity, seizing opportunities during uncertainty, and effective crisis leadership. Insights highlighted learning from failures, understanding fear’s impact, and the significant influence of a leader’s values in guiding personal and organizational paths during challenging times.
JULY
Sustainable Glamour: The Green Cady Awards 2023
The JCCI-EDI 14th Cady Awards, titled “Sustainable Glamour: The Green Cady Awards 2023,” took place at the Manila Polo Club on July 5, 2023. This annual event celebrates individual and team achievements within the company, recognizing top performers in production and sales. It serves as a platform to honor dedication and outstanding contributions, highlighting the company’s commitment to acknowledging excellence. Because the theme revolved around sustainability, the venue exuded elegance, featuring a green carpet where attendees showcased fashion with environmentally conscious designs. JC President and CEO Carol Dominguez emphasized the company’s success factors, such as Learning Agility, Technology, and Deep Purpose, shaping an evening that embodied individual excellence alongside a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
Artificial Intelligence for Business Leaders with Prof. Mohanbir Sawhney
On July 17, 2023, top executives gathered at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel for a workshop on “Artificial Intelligence for Business Leaders: Driving for Growth, Innovation, and Efficiency.” Organized by John Clements Consultants, in collaboration with GMA Network and the Northwestern University/Kellogg School of Management Alumni Association of the Philippines, it featured Dr. Mohanbir Sawhney, the Associate Dean for Digital Innovation at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. Discussions focused on pivotal AI topics, covering foundational concepts, generative AI, marketing, sales, operations, and the future of AI. Attendees gained comprehensive insights into AI’s transformative potential, strategic implementation, and its pivotal role in reshaping work processes for increased efficiency and innovation.
Japan Business Trip
In July, Carol Dominguez and Grace Sorongon embarked on a fruitful trip to Japan, brimming with exploration and opportunity. During the visit, they engaged with existing clients, fostered relationships, and seized the chance to connect with potential new clients. The trip provided ample avenues for exploration, enabling them to delve into promising prospects while expanding the company’s network in Japan.
AUGUST
ChatGPT for Beginners Workshop
In August, John Clements organized the “ChatGPT for Beginners” workshop for its employees. This immersive learning experience, led by Charu Misra, a seasoned Digital Marketing Consultant, aimed to introduce JC employees to the potential of artificial intelligence through ChatGPT. The workshop enlightened participants on ChatGPT’s language comprehension abilities, emphasizing its practical applications. Attendees gained insights into optimizing work processes and innovative thinking, showcasing how ChatGPT could augment tasks in both professional and personal projects. Participant feedback emphasized the workshop’s effectiveness in demystifying AI concepts and the practical application of ChatGPT in diverse work scenarios.
Beauty, Baby, Borders and Bubbles: Breakfast Insights with Women Trailblazers
In August, John Clements, in cooperation with Foxmont Capital Partners, organized the Filipina CEO Circle’s General Membership Meeting and Elections at the Manila Golf and Country Club. Amidst business discussions, a vibrant fireside chat titled “Beauty, Babies, Borders, and Bubbles: Breakfast Insights with Women Trailblazers” featured entrepreneurs Bela Gupta D’Souza, Mel Nava, and Nina Ellaine Dizon.
SEPTEMBER
John Clements 6th CEO Golf Classic
Despite inclement weather in Manila, the John Clements 6th CEO Golf Classic unfolded successfully at the Manila Golf and Country Club on September 8, 2023. Presidents, CEOs, diplomats, and executives from diverse industries enjoyed a day of leisure amidst the rain. After warm greetings from Carol Dominguez, President and CEO of John Clements Consultants, participants engaged in almost five hours of golf before relishing a buffet lunch. An afternoon program celebrated winners across various categories and distributed raffle prizes generously provided by esteemed sponsors. The commitment of Ms. Carol Dominguez, the golf committee, and the whole John Clements team contributed immensely to the event’s success, marking another memorable CEO Golf Classic.
OCTOBER
Remembering Leocadio Dominguez: A Tribute to A Visionary Leader
On October 18, 2023, we honored the birth anniversary of Mr. Leocadio “Cady” J. Dominguez, the esteemed founder of John Clements Consultants, Inc. (JCCI). This commemoration paid tribute to his profound impact on Filipino lives, creating job opportunities, and providing leadership training. The day began with a Holy Mass, followed by heartfelt reminiscences of his life before a delightful dinner. Memories of his leadership style, marked by a blend of toughness and genuine care, were shared, highlighting his meticulous attention and fostering growth among employees. His legacy endures through JCCI, advancing Filipino careers and contributing significantly to the nation’s development.
Business Trip in Europe
In October, the JCCI-EDI Management Team embarked on a comprehensive business journey across Europe. Their travels were marked by strategic client meetings, nurturing partnerships, and immersing in diverse cultures. From bustling business prospects and cultural richness to a focus on dispatched workers’ well-being and local traditions, the trip showcased EDI-Staffbuilders International’s global reach. It highlighted the crucial role of cross-border relationships in today’s interconnected business world, offering promising avenues to foster job opportunities and support Filipino talents in dynamic global markets.
9th Youth for Leadership Summit
The 9th Youth for Leadership Summit gathered over 1,000 student leaders on October 20, 2023. This annual event offered a day filled with inspiring talks, global insights, and networking opportunities. With high-profile speakers and diverse perspectives from various industries, the theme, “Energize, Inspire, and Invigorate Future Leaders,” aimed to nurture leadership skills and foster a vibrant community. Engaging contests, valuable prizes, and surprises made it an unforgettable summit experience, providing a platform to enhance skills, gain insights, and unleash leadership potential.
ChatGPT 101: A Comprehensive Introduction
On October 25, 2023, John Clements hosted another session on ChatGPT, sponsored by the University of the Philippines College of Business Administration Alumni Association (UPCBAAA). The session, led by Charu Misra, had 200 attendees eager to explore the intricacies of ChatGPT. The event aimed to uncover the core functionalities of ChatGPT, bridging the gap between its technological marvel and practical applications. Discussions revolved around best practices, AI ethics, and the potential of this revolutionary tool. Attendees actively engaged in thought-provoking discussions and explored innovative ways to use ChatGPT effectively in both personal and professional realms.
JC Bierfest with Clients
JCCI-EDI blended business with relaxed enjoyment by organizing a distinct Bierfest for its clients on October 26, 2023. This informal event departed from the usual formalities, allowing clients to connect over craft beers and friendly conversations. The gathering aimed to create a comfortable space for clients to chat, bond, and savor flavorful beers. It offered a refreshing approach to client relations, merging quality brews, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere, redefining how businesses engage with clients outside traditional settings.
JCCI-EDI Octoberfest 2023
On October 27, 2023, John Clements hosted an engaging Octoberfest event to strengthen bonds among its employees. The evening featured enjoyable activities, delightful treats, and harmonious singing, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of unity and shared moments. Attendees indulged in a variety of fun-filled games and savored delicious food, creating a cheerful ambiance that highlighted the company’s commitment to cultivating a cohesive work culture and promoting engagement within its diverse workforce.
NOVEMBER
JCCI-EDI Blood Letting Activity
John Clements Consultants, Inc. partnered with the Philippine Red Cross for a blood donation program on November 8, 2023. The event emphasized the crucial role of blood donations in medical emergencies and procedures, underlining their life-saving impact and the significance of regular contributions.
DECEMBER
Party Like Gatsby
John Clements Consultants and EDI-Staffbuilders International dazzled in a Roaring Twenties-themed Christmas celebration on December 7, 2023. The attendees, adorned in Gatsby-style attire, featured electrifying dance-offs and heartfelt speeches, highlighting the company’s achievements and recognizing its loyal and dedicated employees. Amidst vibrant performances and service awards, the night exuded timeless elegance and resilience, fostering unity and determination to thrive.
JCCI-EDI Christmas Potluck Lunch
On December 22, 2023, JCCI-EDI hosted its cherished annual Christmas potluck lunch, a highly anticipated event among employees. This festive gathering provided a platform for sharing homemade dishes, fostering camaraderie among colleagues. Some employees even brought their children, adding to the joyful atmosphere, where they received cash gifts from our President and CEO. The day was filled with delight, culminating in the presentation of special awards honoring Extra Mile Employees, BDP graduates, and the most engaged social media contributors.
May this New Year usher in a wealth of prosperity and success for you!
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