On August 8, 2025, the Ateneo Graduate School of Business – Center for Continuing Education, together with the Ateneo Language Learning Center and in partnership with Kyoto University, proudly celebrated the graduation of 11 Japanese participants from the Asian Business Leader Program at Faber Hall, Ateneo de Manila University. Representing top corporations across diverse industries, the graduates came from the fields of railway and transportation, real estate development and management, finance and wealth management, insurance, product planning, building sales, human resources, and imaging and information technology.

Over the course of one month, participants underwent intensive training focused on sharpening English communication skills, deepening cross-cultural awareness, and strengthening leadership capabilities for the global stage. Beyond academics, they also engaged in rich cultural exchanges that highlighted the warmth and diversity of the Philippines.

The ceremony was gracefully hosted by Ms. Rita Mae Cruz as Master of Ceremony. The graduation ceremony opened with a warm welcome from Ms. Irene Benitez, Director of the Ateneo Language Learning Center.

Members of the faculty of the Department of English—Anette Soriano, Anna Marie Oblepias, and Maria Concepcion Montenegro shared messages of encouragement, urging the graduates to take their learnings forward with courage and confidence.

Adding a personal touch, Ei Takada (Group 1) and Shintaro Ichinose (Group 2) delivered reflections on their journey, highlighting the friendships and growth they experienced throughout the program. 

To close the event, Dr. Jet Magsaysay, Dean of the Ateneo Graduate School of Business, delivered an inspiring address that affirmed Ateneo’s commitment to shaping future-ready leaders. 

The Asian Business Leader Program is more than a training course; it is a transformative platform that combines academic excellence, leadership development, and cultural immersion. With upcoming internships in the Philippines in October and other ASEAN countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, Batch 13 graduates are poised to apply their learning and create meaningful impact within their organizations and beyond.

Congratulations to the graduates of Batch 13! The Asian Business Leader Program continues to empower professionals to lead with confidence, cultural intelligence, and a truly global perspective.