2022 Pres. Richard “Dods” Lim Jr. Champions JCI Philippines’ Global Ascent

Dan Michael Gallego
March 3, 2025

JCI Philippines is poised for a new era of international excellence, fueled by the visionary leadership of Pres. Richard “Dods” Lim Jr., the organization’s International Affairs Director for 2025. From his impactful tenure as JCI Manila’s 2022 President to now leading the charge for global engagement, Pres. Dods is not just setting the stage—he is redefining it.

His leadership journey is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment. As President of JCI Manila, he led the chapter through the pandemic under the thrust ‘Rebuild the Future,’ ensuring that the organization remained active and impactful despite unprecedented challenges. While restrictions limited movement, Pres. Dods never wavered in his dedication to JCI’s global mission, making sure to visit international chapters and represent JCI Manila on the world stage.

A defining moment of his leadership was the 75th Anniversary celebration of JCI Manila, held in December 2022 at The Manila Hotel, the very place where the chapter was founded in 1947. The event, which also served as the Grand General Membership Meeting, was attended by over 600 people—a record-breaking turnout for the organization. With pandemic restrictions easing, the celebration brought together then-JCI World President Argenis Angulo and delegates from nearly 20 countries, reinforcing JCI Manila’s stature as a leading global chapter.

Pres. Richard “Dods” Lim Jr. joins 2022 JCI World President Argenis Angulo and Philippine Senator JV Ejercito, along with the then incoming 2023 JCI Manila Board of Directors, during the chapter’s historic 75th Anniversary Celebration at The Manila Hotel.

Now, as he takes on a national leadership role, Pres. Dods aims to expand JCI Philippines’ international footprint through the newly formed International Affairs Group (IAG). Operating under the Office of the International Affairs Director, the IAG is composed of key JCI leaders committed to expanding global opportunities for Filipino JCI members in business, leadership, and networking.

“We are not just building bridges—we are building a future where every JCI Philippines member has the opportunity to lead, excel, and leave a mark on the global community,” Pres. Dods affirms. “This is our moment to embrace the world.”

The IAG’s 2025 Management Committee is composed of seasoned JCI leaders, including Deputy IAD Duane Young, IA Officer JCI Sen. Alexandra Dayrit, National Chairperson for IA Academy Candice Diao, Senior Deputy NC for ASPAC Senate Golf Perseus Luna, National Chairperson for ASPAC Mongolia James Ervine Tatel, National Chairperson for World Congress Tunisia Keon Chioa, ND for IA LO Engagements JCI Sen. Jacques Estola, PR & Communications Officer Mark Peñafiel, and Admin Brian Sy.

Lim describes the team’s working dynamic as “fast-paced, innovative, and highly collaborative.” He emphasized that the group operates much like a thriving startup, this team thrives on creativity, agility, and a relentless drive to make an impact. Every project, every connection, and every milestone is a step toward positioning JCI Philippines as a true global force.

A Year of Unparalleled Global Opportunities

The IAG 2025 calendar is a testament to the limitless opportunities awaiting JCI Philippines members:

• IAG Bootcamp – A game-changing online masterclass led by ND for IA LO Engagements JCI Sen. Jacques Estola, equipping members with the knowledge and confidence to seize international opportunities.
• IA Academy Vietnam – A three-day transformative experience in Da Nang, Vietnam (March 21-23), spearheaded by National Chairperson Candice Diao, designed to cultivate leadership and cross-cultural understanding.
• ASPAC Senate Golf Vietnam – A prestigious gathering of leaders and changemakers from March 23-25, championed by Senior Deputy NC Perseus Luna, fostering deeper connections through camaraderie and sport.
• Asia Pacific Conference (ASPAC) Mongolia – A dynamic four-day convention in Ulaanbaatar, curated by National Chairperson James Ervin Tatel, where JCI leaders from across Asia Pacific converge to inspire, collaborate, and innovate.
• World Congress Tunisia – The pinnacle of global leadership, this five-day summit in Tunis, led by National Chairperson Keon Chioa, promises an unforgettable journey of transformation, networking, and cultural exchange.

A Legacy in the Making

Under Pres. Dods’ transformative leadership, the International Affairs Group is more than just a committee—it is a movement. A movement that empowers every JCI Philippines member to dream bigger, go further, and lead with courage, passion, and purpose.

“We are not just participating in the global JCI network—we are shaping it,” Pres. Dods declares. “This is an opportunity for Filipino JCI members to engage with the global community, enhance their leadership skills, and contribute to international discussions.”

As JCI Philippines continues to expand its reach, Pres. Dods leadership is expected to drive greater international collaboration, recognition, and opportunities for Filipino JCI members worldwide.