Edmund Alan A. Qua Hiansen, Immediate Past President / 21 January 2026 at Makati Shangri-La
As I reflect on my term as President of the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines for 2025, I do so with deep gratitude and a strong sense of fulfillment. Serving FINEX has been both an honor and a responsibility—one that was meaningful not because of titles or programs, but because of the people: members who believed in the organization, leaders who generously gave their time, and a community that consistently prioritized collaboration over convenience.
At the beginning of the year, we adopted the theme “Shaping Our Future: Leadership and Innovation in Philippine Business.” As the year progressed, this theme proved to be both timely and enduring. It became more than just a statement; it became our guiding principle. In a time marked by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension, rapid technological change, and rising expectations for business leaders, the theme reminded us of a simple but powerful truth: the future is not something we wait for, it is something we create. And I must say, FINEX rose to the occasion.
“Shaping our future” speaks to a form of leadership that goes beyond reaction. It calls for anticipation, sound judgment, and the courage to lead with integrity amid complexity. It also reframes innovation as new ways of thinking about governance, sustainability, risk management, talent development, and collaboration. This broader understanding guided our General Membership Meetings, advocacy work, professional development programs, and partnerships. It allowed FINEX to become even more relevant in a changing world while staying firmly anchored in its core values.
The true strength of FINEX resides in its collective leadership and members. I am sincerely grateful to the Board of Directors for their support and guidance throughout the year. Our discussions were thoughtful and candid, and our decisions were driven by a shared commitment to the institution’s long-term health.
At the core of FINEX are its Committees. This past year marked a significant milestone as we adopted a streamlined committee structure created through a multi-year planning process. By simplifying our committees, we enhanced focus, increased accountability, and improved coordination, all while maintaining valuable opportunities for member participation.
Our Committees are the engine of FINEX’s work by driving advocacy, professional development, ethics and governance initiatives, media engagement, membership growth, and flagship programs such as FINEX Week and the CFO of the Year. The depth, diversity, and professionalism demonstrated across committees reflected the very best of our membership. I extend my sincere thanks to all Committee Chairs, Vice Chairs, Subcommittee Chairs, and members who volunteered their time and expertise. Because of them, FINEX remained dynamic, relevant, and responsive.
Member engagement remained a top priority. Through General Membership Meetings, forums, leadership programs, and fellowship activities, FINEX continued to serve as a trusted platform for finance leaders from various industries and generations. Although participation has not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, the progress this year is encouraging. More importantly, the quality of engagement confirms the ongoing value of FINEX as a space for meaningful dialogue.
I would also like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our speakers and sponsors. Our speakers generously shared insights that grounded our conversations in both policy and practice, challenging us to think more deeply and act more responsibly. Our sponsors and partners, through their continued support, made it possible for FINEX to deliver quality programs. Their confidence reflects a shared belief in leadership, professionalism, and constructive engagement for the good of Philippine business.
FINEX was very vocal in national conversations, especially those impacting the economy. Through statements and position papers, we aimed to contribute responsibly and constructively to public discourse, guided by the belief that finance executives have roles beyond their organizations. As Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, reminded us at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week, we are living in a moment of fundamental change, what he described as a ‘rupture, not a transition’ in the global order, where principled leadership, courageous early action, and commitment to good governance are more essential than ever.
Notably, one of the first times concerns about anomalies in flood control projects were publicly raised was during our 2025 induction, highlighting our willingness to speak up early, responsibly, and based on principles. These efforts reflected our conviction that good governance, transparency, and accountability are vital foundations for sustainable growth and long-term competitiveness.
Professional development remained a key part of our mission. We focused on developing the next generation of finance leaders and fostering a culture of integrity, governance, and lifelong learning. Our efforts in leadership, capital markets, sustainability, and governance emphasized a simple principle: innovation and leadership start with continuous learning and a commitment to higher standards.
None of this would have been possible without our members. FINEX thrives because its members choose to engage, serve, mentor, share ideas, and contribute. This culture of participation and shared responsibility among the best finance professionals in the country is what sets FINEX apart. Beyond FINEX, our members continued to guide our nation by steering their companies, investing in the Philippines and growing the economy.
Lastly, I must extend my thanks to our dedicated Secretariat. I have always known how hard they work, but witnessing it more regularly left me in awe of what they are able to accomplish. FINEX would not be what it is without your positive attitude and professionalism.
As my term concludes, I leave with great confidence in FINEX’s future. I encourage all members to extend the same trust, cooperation, and support to our 2026 President, Carlo Lazatin, and the incoming Board of Directors. Leadership transitions are pivotal moments, and organizations grow stronger when members support new leadership with openness and goodwill. I am confident that President Carlo will lead with clarity, steadiness, and a deep respect for FINEX’s core values.
Serving as FINEX President has been one of the most meaningful privileges of my professional life. I step down grateful for the opportunity, proud of what we have achieved together, and optimistic about what the future holds. If there is one legacy I hope this year leaves behind, it is a FINEX that leads early, speaks with principle, and helps shape the future through courage as well as competence. FINEX remains strong because of its people, its principles, and its shared commitment to creating a better future for Philippine business.
Thank you for the privilege of serving you.
Mabuhay ang FINEX!