ICD 2026 Induction: Welcoming Leaders and Members Committed to Good Governance

The Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) held the induction of its newly elected Trustees, Officers, Board and Program Committee Chairs, as well as new members, on January 22, 2026, at the Dusit Thani, Makati. This event formally inaugurates ICD’s newly elected leaders and welcomes new members while recognizing the contributions of outgoing officers. It highlighted ICD’s leadership transition and commitment to good corporate governance.

Executive Director Catherine Jalandoni, GICD, who hosted the event, extended a warm welcome to all participants. President Tomasa H. Lipana, FICD, warmly welcomed new Trustees, Officers, Committee Chairs, and members, while recognizing the dedication of outgoing leaders. She highlighted ICD’s vital role in advancing good governance, fostering partnerships, and ensuring that institutions uphold integrity, accountability, and sustainable value for the nation.

Chairperson Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad, FICD, recognized outgoing Trustees Ms. Imelda C. Tiongson, FICD, and DICT Secretary Henry Aguda, FICD, for their dedicated service and significant contributions to ICD’s programs and governance initiatives.

Inducted into the 2026 Board of Trustees and Officers of ICD are as follows:

• Chairman Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad, FICD

• Vice Chairman Senen L. Matoto, FICD

• President Tomasa H. Lipana, FICD

• Treasurer Catherine L. Hufana-Ang, FICD

• Amb. Jose L. Cuisia Jr., FICD

• Ramoncito S. Fernandez, FICD

• Maria Montserrat Iturralde-Hamlin, FICD

• Dr. Donald Patrick L. Lim, FICD

• Jose Antonio T. Mapa, Jr., FICD

• Jonathan Juan DC. Moreno, FICD

• Maria Celeste S. Narciso, FICD

• Atty. Jose Tomas C. Syquia, FICD

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Francis Lim, FICD, delivered the induction speech for ICD’s new officers, emphasizing the continued importance of the Institute’s mission in strengthening corporate governance in the Philippines. He highlighted the legacy of Dr. Jesus Estanislao, ICD’s Founder and Chairman Emeritus, and noted that strong governance protects not only companies but also the economy, markets, and public trust. Chair Lim acknowledged improvements in the Philippines’ ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard while stressing that more work is needed to close the governance gap and ensure growth.

He called on the new ICD leadership to embrace their responsibilities by moving from compliance to conviction, making tone from the top visible through board independence, and building boards that drive growth, emphasizing that strong, accountable, and independent boards attract investment and create long-term value.

Dr. Estanislao reflected on the deeper purpose of corporate governance and reminded the new trustees and officers that boards shape more than just companies; they have a direct impact on the economy and society. He explained that good governance is the clearest defense against corruption, yet it requires more than merely following rules, as values must guide every decision, policy, and action. He encouraged leaders to align their companies’ values with the country’s core principles of being maka-Diyos, maka-tao, makalikasan, and makabansa, and to translate these principles into practical actions that enhance performance and accountability. Governance, he emphasized, extends beyond institutions. By embedding these values across organizations, influencing employees, families, and communities, leaders can drive transformative outcomes, foster social responsibility, and contribute to national development.

Secretary of Finance Frederick Go, in his keynote address, highlighted the government’s strong commitment to fiscal discipline, smart spending, and creating a more predictable and investor friendly business environment. He underscored that while public policy sets the foundation, sustainable economic growth ultimately depends on a capable private sector led by principled and competent boards that foster trust, manage risk, and build long term value.

Secretary Go also shared key economic indicators demonstrating the resilience of the Philippine economy, citing steady GDP growth, controlled inflation, and sustained investment grade credit ratings. He outlined major reforms and initiatives to support business growth, including liberalized investment policies, expanded public private partnerships, the digitalization of tax and customs processes, and the rollout of landmark infrastructure projects. He concluded by calling on ICD leaders to serve as stewards of trust and active partners in strengthening governance, boosting investor confidence, and advancing national development.

Closing the program, newly elected Trustee Maria Montserrat Iturralde-Hamlin thanked the speakers and attendees and emphasized the responsibility of ICD’s new leaders to lead with conviction, uphold accountability, and strengthen corporate governance in the Philippines.

Overall, the 2026 Induction of Officers highlighted ICD’s commitment to fostering principled leaders and members who uphold strong corporate governance. The event emphasized the shared responsibility to lead with conviction, promote accountability, and help build institutions that create long-term value for both organizations and the nation.