JCI Manila Welcomes New Leadership, Embarks on ‘Built Different’ Vision

Jan Adrian ‘AP’ Padiernos Inducted as JCI Manila President in Grand Ceremony

Pasay City, Philippines – On January 31, 2025, the prestigious Marriot Grand Ballroom in Newport City, Pasay, was filled with energy and anticipation as Jan Adrian ‘AP’ Padiernos and his team were officially inducted as the new Board of Directors of JCI Manila. The event was attended by over 500 guests, including JCI Manila members and high-ranking JCI officials from across the country and around the world.

The momentous evening was graced by esteemed guests, including Senate President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero, who delivered an inspiring speech acknowledging JCI Manila’s contributions to nation-building. He encouraged members to continue their commitment to serving the country and its people. Escudero was introduced by Sean Patrick Si, JCI Manila’s 2025 Director for Local Organization Management and Business Development. Si, a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, author, and thought leader, is also the CEO and Founder of SEO Hacker.

Also taking the stage was Dennis Anthony Uy, CEO of Converge and the Philippine Special Envoy to Korea for Digital Transformation. Uy captivated the audience with his journey from humble beginnings to leading one of the country’s top tech companies. He shared his vision of establishing the Philippines’ own technology hub akin to Silicon Valley and praised JCI Manila for fostering a culture of innovation and leadership. Uy was introduced by 2025 Executive-Treasurer Carlo Chen-Delantar, a recognized figure in strategic investing in tech-enabled startups.

Additionally, special video messages were shared by Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and 2025 JCI World President Keisuke Shimoyamada. Shimoyamada laid out his vision for JCI’s future, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and resilience.

 

The Legacy of JCI Manila

JCI Manila, recognized as the motherhouse of all JCI works in the Philippines and Asia, has a rich history dating back to 1947. Founded by World War II veteran and industrialist Artemio Vergel de Dios, the organization played a crucial role in the country’s post-war rehabilitation efforts. By 1948, JCI Manila’s constitution and by-laws were established, and the first Board of Directors, led by Ramon V. Del Rosario, was elected.

The organization swiftly expanded, advocating for peace, cooperation, and development throughout the archipelago and beyond. JCI Manila has since produced notable alumni, including business tycoons Henry Sy Sr., Alfonso Yuchengco, and Jaime Zobel de Ayala. Washington Sycip once described JCI Manila members as individuals “capable of inspiring other great young men to work alongside them.” Today, JCI Manila is recognized as the “University of Leaders,” dedicated to growth, service, and shaping a better future.

 

The Induction and Turnover Ceremony

The evening’s highlight was the ceremonial turnover of leadership from 2024 JCI Manila President Calel Gosingtian to Jan Adrian ‘AP’ Padiernos. Pres. Calel delivered a heartfelt valedictory address, reflecting on the past year’s accomplishments under the theme ‘Elevate.’

The introduction of the 2025 Board of Directors was met with grandeur, beginning with a dramatic lights-out moment. A montage showcasing JCI Manila’s initiatives and the incoming leadership played on large screens, accompanied by a live orchestra’s rendition of Lupe Fiasco’s ‘The Show Goes On.’ One by one, each board member paraded onto the stage to thunderous applause and a standing ovation.

The Board of Directors took their oath of office before 2021 JCI Manila President, Senator Richard Antonio Tamayo, and 2022 JCI Manila President, Senator Richard ‘Dods’ Lim Jr. Pres. Rich and Pres. Dods also officiated the symbolic turnover of the gavel and the investiture of the presidential medallion. As a symbol of the president’s authority, the gavel was received by Pres. AP with a solemn vow: “It is my covenant to wield this gavel unflinchingly but righteously, with courage but with humility, and finally with determination but with compassion.” He then struck the gavel three times with conviction, marking the official transition of leadership.

The medallion, bearing the names of past JCI Manila presidents, was ceremoniously transferred from the shoulders of outgoing Pres. Calel to the shoulders of Pres. AP. Assisted by past presidents, this moment symbolized the passage of leadership and responsibility. The investiture signified Pres. AP’s commitment to upholding the values and vision of JCI Manila as he takes the helm for 2025.

 

AP Padiernos: Redefining Leadership with ‘Built Different’

In a room filled with energy, ambition, and the promise of a new era, JCI Manila President Jan Adrian “AP” Padiernos took the stage and declared: This year, we are Built Different.

It was more than an introduction—it was a battle cry. A challenge to break barriers, push limits, and redefine what it means to lead.

For Pres. AP, leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about purpose. As the son of Partylist Representative Jose Gay Gi. Padiernos, he grew up witnessing the power of service. Now, as Chief Operating Officer of Pacific Union Insurance Company and a devoted father of three, he carries that same dedication into everything he does.

His JCI journey is a testament to his commitment: from shaping the organization’s future as 2022 Secretary General to honing leaders as 2021 Director for Training and Leadership, and even making an impact on a global scale as 2018 Skills Development Officer for Asia and the Pacific at JCI World.

What Does It Mean to Be ‘Built Different’?

Pres. AP didn’t just define Built Different—he challenged JCI Manila to live it. He is redefining leadership as an active choice. It is not about titles or traditions but about the deliberate decision to lead with intention, to push boundaries, and to create lasting impact.

“It’s a mindset, a way of life. It means knowing that greatness isn’t found in sameness—it thrives in the boldness of our differences. It’s about believing in our unique personal stories, our struggles, and our strengths—and using them to create impact. Movements don’t last if they remain just ideas. They must transform into a force—one that moves, disrupts, and endures.”

At its core, Built Different is built on three powerful pillars: Intentional Actions, not just going through the motions, but making every move count; Enriching Experiences, creating value that elevates members, communities, and the future; A Unique Approach, redefining leadership by thinking beyond the conventional and reimagining possibilities.

Pres. AP left the audience with a challenge—not just to lead, but to lead differently:

“We act with purpose. We leave a mark. We shape the leaders the world needs—now more than ever. We don’t just build projects; we build legacies. We don’t just create events; we create movements.”

With that, a new chapter in JCI Manila’s history begins—one that promises not just change, but transformation.