Classical music performed by a 12-piece orchestra set the relaxed and friendly ambience during the cocktail reception. The guest list was composed of industry movers and shakers. The guest of honor President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo arrived promptly and was warmly welcomed by applause as she entered the ballroom. Leading the group of welcomers were P&A founders Benjamin Punongbayan and wife Evelyn, Jose Araullo and wife Amparo, and the partners of the firm. President Arroyo led the toast with the founders and wished the firm continued success in the Philippines and its new partnership with Grand Thornton International. Representing Thornton during the celebration were top executives Gabriel Azedo and Tim Borzel.
Among the notable guests during the P&A cocktail reception were: Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, Henry Sy, socialite and columnist Tingting Cojuangco, Philippine Stock Exchange chairperson Vivian Yuchengco, Cultural Center of the Philippines chairman Baltazar Endriga, Megaworld Foundation chairman Andrew Tan, Planters Development Bank chairman Jesus Tambunting, RCBC chairman Rizalino Navarro and RCBS president Valentin Araneta, to name a few.
Congratulations and more anniversaries to come!