Brian Poe Llamanzares receiving his medal from HKSAAP
The Harvard Kennedy School Alumni Association of the Philippines (HKSAAP) recently held its annual Bureaucrats' Ball, bringing together distinguished public servants from various sectors.
Atty. Gianna Montinola, President of HKSAAP, emphasized the event's significance as a tradition, offering alumni the chance to reconnect and celebrate the accomplishments of those contributing to government and the public sector.
In reflecting on the event, Atty. Gianna Montinola shared, "The festive Bureaucrats' Ball is an annual tradition carried on from our Harvard Kennedy School student days. It is not only an opportunity for the alumni in the Philippines to catch up but also to share and celebrate the achievements of those who serve in government and in the public sector."
Celebrating the spirit of the school motto "Ask what you can do", the evening's spotlight shone on HKS alumni actively engaged in nation-building through public service. Notable among the awardees was Brian Poe-Llamanzares, Chief of Staff at the Office of Senator Grace Poe, alongside other esteemed figures including Dr. Alex Brillantes, Cesar Chavez, Jean Susan V. Desuasido Gill, Vicente Homer Revil, Annalyn Sevilla Santiago, Reynaldo Tagudando, Hendrik Garcia, Maria Luthgarda Lacaba, and Mary Rose Magsaysay.
Ambassador Chantale Wong, the United States Director of the Asian Development Bank, shared insights during her keynote address, tracing her history in public service and highlighting positive developments in the Philippines.
Ambassador Chantale Wong, US Director of Asian Development Bank
From financing the climate change action program in 2021 to the country's increased involvement in APEC during the new administration, Ambassador Wong expressed optimism, stating, "The Philippines has come a long way, but there is still much work to be done. With the continued efforts of the government and the support of its partners, I am confident that the country will overcome its challenges and achieve its development goals. I am personally honored and pleased to be part of the journey and look forward to continuing partnership."
Brian Poe-Llamanzares expressed gratitude while sharing, "This recognition is a reflection of the amazing things we've been able to achieve at the office of Senator Grace Poe. I look forward to continuing to grow with the organization. As an executive program graduate, I feel very welcome in the organization and encourage more executive education grads to join the organization and contribute to the nation-building vision of the association"
Harvard Kennedy School alum, Department of Transportation Undersecretary Cesar Chavez, lauded the event for its role in fostering valuable connections. "The Bureaucrats' Ball showcased the powerful synergy between Harvard Kennedy School alumni working in various government agencies and development partners, fostering valuable connections in the Philippines."
Looking ahead, HKSAAP plans to expand its recognition through the implementation of Public Service Awards, honoring outstanding leaders from various sectors. The association also aims to offer board seats to fellows and executive program graduates, with future forums aligned with their membership's interests.
The next event in the HKSAAP calendar is a welcome reception for Kennedy School Dean Doug Elmendorf on December 3 at the Brittany Hotel. The association invites all alumni to join this intimate gathering with the current head of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
The success of the Bureaucrats' Ball reflects not only the synergy among Harvard Kennedy School alumni but also their collective commitment to contributing significantly to the nation-building efforts in the Philippines.
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