The event was opened by the German Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, with a warm welcoming remark to all attendees present.
GPCCI President, Ms. Marie Antoniette "Maan” Mariano, offered the President's Report and her outlook on the activities of the Chamber. They highlighted the success of the Chamber's events for both members and non-members held during the past year to support the 70 years of German-Philippine relations. Activities ranging from a swinging time during the GPCCI German Ambassador's Cup, to courtesy visits such as one with Secretary Frederick Go, to the support of Filipino global mobility through qualification recognition of the Pro Recognition initiative, to business development and discussion platforms such as the Bioenergy Delegation and ensuring the network is represented at the World Business Outlook Survey (WBO). Overall, 2024 posed a year of achievement and a promise of more opportunities.
GPCCI Executive Director, Christopher Zimmer, gave his outlook in the form of the Executive Director's Report by looking at the Chamber's future initiatives. He is looking forward to the direction and path the Chamber is on by reporting on various upcoming forums, delegations, and external events the chamber was invited to be a supporting partner in 2025.
The events and initiatives would all culminate in the return of Mabuhay Germany in November looking to further strengthen and continue the positive business sentiments in the Philippines. He ensures that the Chamber would stay committed in fostering an environment where businesses can take advantage of the Chamber's events and initiatives to further grow their businesses and succeed.
GPCCI Treasurer, Mr. Joseph Gross, would follow up with the Treasurer's report and highlight the supportive Members and Premium Partners throughout 2024, creating a strong membership base. With this, he thanked the supportive and committed Members that have supported the Chamber activities, yielding successful outcomes last 2024. Mr. Gross closes by remaining committed in fostering relations with German Businesses and continuing their positions to foster successful ventures in the Philippines.
The meeting also celebrated members who have reached five (5), ten (10), and fifteen (15) years with the Chamber with a certificate in commemoration of the strong relationship and commitment the Chamber and Members have to each other.
Following the approval of all agenda points, attendees were then ushered to the Mistral Rooftop Bar located at the Raffles roof deck for AGM After Dark to enjoy a well-deserved break the German way – with a feierabend.
Ms. Mariano, once again warmly welcomed everyone to AGM After Dark at the evening networking. Highlights of AGM After Dark includes a buffet with a package of free-flowing drinks at the bar for all to enjoy. Time went by as guests enjoyed exchanging conversations over the top-tier service of Raffles and Fairmont team.
As the sun set behind the city skyline, the evening was topped off by a special raffle sponsored by El Rio Y Mar adding to the excitement as one lucky winner would walk away with an exciting prize–an exclusive stay at their resort in Coron, Palawan. The night continued with joy, opportunities, and creating new relationships. GPCCI’s Annual General Meeting continues to be a celebration of a community as all eyes look forward to another successful and prosperous year for the Chamber and its members.
We would like to give our sincerest appreciation to our event partners: AllianzPNB Life, Raffle Fairmont Makati, and TÜV Rheinland Philippines, as well as our Raffle Sponsor El Rio Y Mar. Cheers to a successful 2024, now entering 2025 in High Spirits!
