On August 7, 2026, the 12 Japanese participants of Batch 14 of the Asian Business Leaders (ABL) Program celebrated their graduation. The Ateneo Graduate School of Business – Center for Continuing Education, together with the Ateneo Language Learning Center and in partnership with Kyoto University, joined Batch 14 in culminating their intensive English language training and cultural immersion experience, in a program held at the Ateneo de Manila University.
The program also featured messages of insight and encouragement from CCE officials, Department of English faculty members, and resource persons, and was hosted by Ms. Rita Mae Cruz.
Ms. Anna Marie Oblipias congratulated the batch on their growth and completion of the program. Meanwhile, the batch's Business Writing teacher, Ms. Maria Concepcion Montenegro, shared three keys to their path to leadership: cultivate clarity, lead with integrity, and stay relentlessly curious.
Ms. Marleth Calanog, Executive Director of Ateneo CCE, commended the participants for the marked improvement in their business writing, and wished them continued success in their careers. She highlighted the program's 14-year partnership with Kyoto University, a milestone that underscores the ABL Program's lasting impact. Prof. Yoshiaki Hirao, Project Director of the Kyoto Business Research Center, delivered a congratulatory message, citing the batch's improved research presentation skills. He also marked the ABL Program’s milestone of reaching 166 graduates.
Batch 14, a group representing various industries—including real estate, securities, construction, electronics, finance, and energy—reflected on their journey through the training program in group presentations, fondly recalling key lessons and experiences from their time in the Philippines. The participants spoke of newfound confidence in speaking English, gratitude for the career clarity they gained, and appreciation for supportive teachers and the warmth of local hospitality—with a participant from a Japanese general contractor even planning to return for an internship. A participant from a Japanese electric company shared their plans to refine a business plan he hopes to pitch for a Philippine expansion ahead of his internship in Thailand.
Dr. Jet Magsaysay, Dean of the Ateneo Graduate School of Business, closed the ceremony by addressing Batch 14, encouraging them to focus on storytelling, convey meaning, and carry forward the courage to step up.
The ABL Batch 14 graduates will now take these lessons into internships across the ASEAN, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
The Asian Business Leader Program is a program designed for academic excellence, leadership development, and cultural immersion. Now heading into its 15th year, the ABL Program continues to empower new leaders with the skills and insights to make an impact within their organizations—and beyond.