Ian Pelayo, Director of Corporate Secretarial at ABN Australia, represented the firm at the Australia Philippines Business Council’s (APBC) Golden 50th Anniversary Dinner on 20 November at Doltone House Hyde Park, Sydney.
ABN Australia took part in a major milestone for the Australia–Philippines business community as Ian Pelayo attended APBC’s Golden 50th Anniversary Dinner, an evening that brought together government leaders, business executives, and industry partners to celebrate five decades of bilateral collaboration.
The event featured keynote messages from APBC President Rafael Toda, NSW Vice President George Votava, federal and state parliamentarians, and both the Australian and Philippine Ambassadors. Leaders from the legal, finance, and corporate sectors also addressed attendees, with live entertainment and a major raffle sponsored by Philippine Airlines.
Ian said the celebration was a meaningful opportunity to strengthen relationships and highlight the importance of governance in international business. “Last night’s event, hosted by APBC, was a meaningful opportunity to connect with industry leaders and valued members of the Filipino–Australian business community,” he said. He added, “Events like this bring together professionals from a wide range of sectors, including service providers like us, creating the space to exchange ideas, discuss growth opportunities, and emphasise the importance of strong governance and compliance in business.”
He said that the 50-year milestone underscores APBC’s long-standing role in strengthening economic and cultural ties. “Representing ABN Australia at this event allowed me to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new leaders, and gain fresh insights from the wider business community,” Ian said. “The conversations we had reinforce the value of staying engaged, contributing to shared goals, and supporting the ongoing partnership that the APBC has championed for five decades.”
The dinner, supported by partners including Manila Town, Philippine Airlines, Symphonic, WorkQC Group, and Pitcher Partners, highlighted APBC’s continuing mission to foster business, investment, and community ties between the two nations.
Last updated: 25th Nov 2025
About the Author
Ro Elvinia is ABN Australia's Customer Success and Marketing Manager. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication, majoring in journalism, and also has an academic background in civil engineering. With over a decade of experience in professional writing and a background spanning journalism, Australian immigration, and business services, Ro brings a unique mix of communication and analytical expertise. She works closely with international clients and contributes to ABN Australia's content strategy, helping global businesses stay informed and confident as they navigate the Australian market.
Ro Elvinia
Customer Success and Marketing Manager