On April 29, 2025, the Manila Ballroom of Marriott Hotel in Newport City hosted the Asia CEO Awards (ACA) Media Launch, bringing together key industry leaders, business icons, and innovators to usher in another exciting season of recognition for Filipino excellence. As the largest business awards event in the Philippines, and arguably the biggest of its kind in Southeast Asia, the Asia CEO Awards serves a higher purpose: to promote the Philippines as the premier business destination for global enterprises.
Among the distinguished participants was Figari, a trusted leader in building innovative workspaces and business solutions. Figari continues its partnership with the Asia CEO Awards, proudly sponsoring the “Entrepreneur of the Year” award—a category that recognizes bold, visionary leaders shaping industries and empowering communities.
At the media launch, Darcy Lalonde, Chairman of Figari and co-founder of the Asia CEO Awards, took the stage to officially open nominations for the Entrepreneur of the Year award. In a short but meaningful speech, he reaffirmed Figari’s deep-rooted belief in Filipino potential and the importance of recognizing those who build, innovate, and lead with impact.
A Spotlight on Leadership and Vision
During the Q&A portion of the event, Darcy shared powerful insights about Figari’s global philosophy and local strength. “We’re very much driven by what our clients want,” he said. “So very, very strong partnerships with customers, very high trust levels… I think Philippine companies really strive upon this.” While Figari operates in Canada, Australia, and Singapore, Darcy emphasized that all of Figari’s management, services, and passion are proudly rooted in Manila—a strategy that fuels their ability to deliver what’s best for clients and partners alike.
He also touched on the importance of creating workplaces that foster passion and community, a cornerstone of Figari’s approach to workspace solutions. “It has to be full of passion and positiveness,” he said. “We’re here to create business environments that people want to come to… in Manila that’s a challenge, so it better be a darn nice environment. And we’re proud that we can build, lease, and manage those spaces to make work better and even fun.”
A Recognition That Builds the Nation
Rebecca Bustamante, Chairman of the Asia CEO Awards, highlighted Figari’s vital role in this shared journey. “It’s not just about personal success,” she shared. “Figari is helping bring businesses into the Philippines and supporting Filipino entrepreneurs. That’s how they create their future, they’re building it right here.”The ACA 2025 theme, “Predict the Future by Creating It,” resonates deeply with Figari’s mission. Through its workspace innovations and strategic business support, Figari isn’t just watching the future unfold, it’s helping shape it.
Join the movement to recognize Filipino excellence.
Nominate today for the Entrepreneur of the Year.
Discover how Figari builds spaces where leaders rise.
About Figari
Founded in Singapore in 2011, Figari creates world-class office communities through leasing, construction, technology, and managed services. With global operations and a focus on Asia Pacific and North America, we offer turnkey solutions for businesses to lease, build, relocate, and optimize their workspaces.