Japan envoy honors ex-finance chief Purisima

• Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya hosted on Monday a reception to congratulate former trade and finance secretary Cesar Purisima on his conferment of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.

As trade secretary from 2003 to 2005, Purisima’s office played a significant role during negotiations for the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement, the Philippines’ first bilateral free trade agreement.

During his tenure as finance secretary from 2010 to 2016, Purisima supported the amendment of the Foreign Bank Liberalization Act, which facilitated the entry of Japanese banks into the Philippine financial market.

In recognition of his contributions, the medal and certificate were presented to Purisima.

During the ceremony, Endo lauded Purisima for his contributions to strengthening the economic partnership between Japan and the Philippines.

Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan delivered his congratulatory remarks and led the toast.

Attendees include former Senate president Franklin Drilon, Office of the President of the Philippines deputy executive secretary Danielle Marie Rieza-Culangen, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr., Bureau of the Treasury National Treasurer Sharon Almanza and Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Francis Lim.

Business executives also graced the ceremony: Philippine Stock Exchange chairman Jose Pardo, Jollibee Foods Corp. CEO Tony Tan Caktiong, JG Summit Holdings president Lance Gokongwei, Bank of the Philippine Islands president Jose Limcaoco, SM Investments chairman Amando Tetangco Jr. and Ayala Corp. president Cezar Consing.

• Latest
• Trending