D. Edgard A. Cabangon, Chairman of the ALC Group of Companies, was recognized as an Outstanding Civic Leader by the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) during the 8th Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) Accredited National Convention of Public Attorneys. The award was presented by PAO Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta on August 17, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center, in front of a distinguished audience of legal professionals, government officials, and business leaders.
In his acceptance speech, Cabangon shared a meaningful quote from his late father, Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua: “The best fertilizer of any business is the footprint of its owner.” He drew a parallel between this wisdom and the work of public attorneys, emphasizing the critical role their dedication and integrity play in ensuring the success of the Public Attorney’s Office.
“Much like a business,” Cabangon remarked, “the Public Attorney’s Office thrives on the dedication, integrity, and passion of its members. Your commitment to upholding justice, advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails is a legacy of service that enriches our society. Your ‘footprints’ are the true markers of progress and fairness.”
Cabangon also reflected on his personal journey, sharing that he once aspired to become a lawyer and pursued legal education at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). However, on his third year, he chose to focus on assisting his father in their business ventures—a decision he has never regretted. He noted that he has always carried the spirit of justice and dedication into his work, guided by his father’s teachings: “Sa bawat hakbang at bawat desisyon, ang ating tunay na layunin ay hindi lamang magtagumpay kundi magbigay ng makabuluhang kontribusyon sa ating komunidad.”
Cabangon dedicated the award to his father. “Thank you and I love you, Dad!” he declared, also pledging to continue supporting the Public Attorney’s Office. “Asahan po ninyo na patuloy na magiging kaagapay ng inyong ahensya ang ALC Group of Companies. Muli, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat!”
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