FPH’s “Circa 89” led by chairman emeritus OML and chairman Federico R. Lopez (5th and 6th from left): Benjamin Liboro, Elpidio Ibañez, Ramon Pagdagdagan, Beth Canlas, Millet Sabella, Corie Miguel, Nena Wieneke and Anthony Mabasa (Not in photo: Vicky Martinez)First Philippine Holdings Corporation (FPH) celebrated its 53rd anniversary at the Lopez Memorial Museum on July 4.

The event started with a thanksgiving mass, followed by the program proper hosted by FPH VP Bunny Gerochi.

The occasion was also an opportunity for FPH to cite seven powerhouse employees, including the top leaders of the company.

Awarded were Hazel Velasco, for five years of service; Rene Mayol, 15 years; Ramon Pagdagdagan and Benjamin R. Lopez, 20 years; Federico R. Lopez (FRL), 25 years; Anthony Mabasa, 30 years; and Elpidio L. Ibañez, 35 years.

Concluding the event was an inspirational talk by chairman and CEO FRL, whose stories brought the audience back to the time when FPH and its passionate employees were just starting.

He acknowledged the people who have been with FPH since 1989, the year he joined the company. Called “Circa 89,” they were chairman emeritus Oscar M. Lopez, president Ibañez, VP Liboro, SVP Mabasa, VP Pagdagdagan, Beth Canlas, Nena Wieneke, Corie Miguel, Milet Sabella and Vicky Martinez. (Ayesha Volpane and Ilene Estrada)

Vice president Jay R. Lopez

Awardee SVP Tony Mabasa, 30 years

OML and awardees FPH president Nonoy Ibañez, 35 years; and FRL, 25 years

Awardee VP Mon Pagdagdagan, 20 years

Awardee Hazel Velasco, five years