The growth of a business like the Aboitiz Group is not solely dependent on numbers nor return on investments. What makes a nearly century-old conglomerate unique and thriving is its conscious decision to put a greater purpose at the core of every action and decision.
In Aboitiz’s case, the higher purpose is ensuring that the organization is “driving change for a better world.” This, coupled with its sustainability mindset of “doing well by doing good, always making the right long-term decisions that balance the interests of people, planet, and profit”.
“As businessmen, there is no doubt we seek profits and a return on our capital,” says Aboitiz Group chief Erramon Aboitiz.
“We, however, are equally guided by a strong sense of purpose that goes beyond just making money,” he says.
“Perhaps what makes our jobs more challenging is introducing the ‘AND’. ‘AND’ adds another dimension to why and how we do things. We need to get a reasonable return on our investments ‘AND’ ensure we are driving change for a better world. There is no reason why every action, every decision cannot somehow contribute to this greater purpose,” Aboitiz says, emphasizing the importance of upholding time-honored values that made the company what it is today: integrity, teamwork, innovation, and responsibility.
“Today, we consider ourselves a family-led than a family-run enterprise, with non-family professionals taking on very senior leadership roles. Our unique culture, nurtured and strengthened over generations, is the secret sauce to the Group’s success,” Aboitiz says during his commencement speech at the conferment of his honorary doctorate degree in Management from the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City.
Erramon belongs to the fourth generation of family leaders who uphold Aboitiz patriarch Don Ramon’s philosophy of nurturing and strengthening professional excellence. Today, a number of the fifth generation Aboitizes are also holding senior and executive positions in the company.
Aboitiz also underscored the value of protecting one’s reputation. “Your education and the values you have imbibed from this institute have prepared you well to seize the limitless opportunities ahead. Do the right thing and do the best you can. Like Aboitiz, consider your reputation as your greatest asset—one that you will protect at all cost,” he said.
During the AIM’s commencement ceremony, AIM president Dr. Jikyeong Kang and chairman Peter Garrucho led the awarding of a distinguished group of individuals recognized for their exemplary contributions to their respective fields.