In an exclusive interview with Lifestyle Asia, front runners and rising stars from various industries look back at what they were grateful for last year and reveal their perspective for 2025.
The New Year is the perfect time to reflect on the past year, refresh your point of view, and look forward to what’s to come in the year ahead. Lifestyle Asia asked some of the country’s leaders across various industries—from real estate, luxury automobile, and manufacturing, to hospitality and wellness, as well as food, arts, culture, and fashion—to answer these questions: What are you grateful for in 2024? What is your outlook for 2025? What are you looking forward to in your industry this coming year?
Vast Selection
We interviewed Francis Gotianun, the first senior vice president of Filinvest Hospitality Corporation, and Jonathan Reynolds, general manager of Makati Shangri-La, Manila, to gather their perspectives on the hospitality sector. We also had the opportunity to speak with Alfred Xerez-Burgos III, president and CEO of Forest Lake Development, Inc., who shared valuable insights on the real estate industry. Danielle del Rosario, chief operating officer of Union Insulated Panel Corporation under the PHINMA Group, likewise shared what’s in store for their company as they continue striving to making lives better through their major business units.
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Francis Gotianun (Photo by Ed Simon of KLIQ, Inc. for Lifestyle Asia) / Jonathan Reynolds (Photo by Kieran Punay of KLIQ, Inc. for Lifestyle Asia)


Alfred Xerez-Burgos III (Photo courtesy of Forest Lake Development, Inc. / Danielle Del Rosario (Photo by Kim Santos of KLIQ, Inc. for Lifestyle Asia)
Carlo Ablaza, Lexus Manila president, shared the importance of a personalized approach by nurturing relationships with loyal clients. In addition, we gathered some meaningful insights from Donnie Tantoco, the multi-hyphenate entrepreneur and purveyor of luxury retail, who shared the joy of his new purposeful journey. In the wellness field, we connected with Stephanie Zubiri, Founder of Soulful Feasts, for her enlightening views on health and wellbeing.


Carlo Ablaza (Photo courtesy of Lexus Philippines) / Donnie Tantoco (Photo by Joseph Pascual for Lifestyle Asia)

Stephanie Zubiri / Photo by Scott Woodward
Within the culinary world, chefs Anna Bautista and Sean Jorgensen of Oak & Smoke offered their insights as new players in the Philippine dining scene. Meanwhile, artist Clari and Cultural Center of the Philippines President Kaye Tinga shared their viewpoints on the arts and culture sector, while Gabby Garcia of Pinagtagpi, and Sofia Carmela of Sofia Carmela Atelier, gave their perspective on fashion.
We concluded the conversation on fashion with none other than the legendary Rajo Laurel, who shared his honest and meaningful thoughts on the industry.





Gabby Garcia (Photo via Instagram @gabby.garcia) / Clari (Photo courtesy of Clari) / Sofia Carmela (Photo via Instagram @sofiacarms)

What are you grateful for in 2024?
Donnie shares, “We make plans and God guides our steps. I am grateful for disappointments that eventually became blessings in disguise. I am happy with how my work has gradually changed in an even more purposeful, more entrepreneurial, and even artisanal way. This new journey requires as much unlearning as it does learning. There are new risks; but at 58 this is my last chance to take on a new and different challenge before it’s too late.
Also very very grateful for relationships with my immediate family that in 2024 became even more fruitful, more genuine and more transparent. Grateful to now have three grandchildren that fascinate us so much.”
According to Jonathan, “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work in a new business environment with a dynamic team and exciting possibilities. This year has been a period of growth and learning, and I appreciate the chance to contribute to innovative projects that have broadened my perspective and strengthened my professional journey.”
Alfred, also known as “Alby” shares, “Grateful for the wonderful team I work with. Also for the opportunity to be of service to people during their most vulnerable times.”
“I am grateful for the relationships we have built with our new Lexus guests in 2024, says Carlo. He adds, “Last year, Lexus had the most number of customers made possible through our loyal clientele and first-time Lexus owners.”
Meanwhile, Francis simply and sincerely states, “I’m grateful for everything.”
Danielle shares, “In 2024, I was given a lot of trust to develop and run our newest business. I am grateful for the belief in me by our senior leadership , and for the opportunity to grow and work with my wonderful team.”
She adds, “On a personal note, I am extremely grateful for the deliverance and health of my three daughters, two of whom went through major surgeries. I feel tremendously blessed by a good and loving God, and I am reminded that God takes care of us so that we can continue to help and take care of others. On a last note, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story with others this year. I am ordinarily a very quiet and private individual, and I hoped that sharing my story of personal challenges could shine the light for others as a path beyond perfection.”
“I am grateful for the incredible healing journey I have been on, Stephanie reveals. “It was a year of very high highs and very low lows, but thanks to my mentors and incredible support system, I have been able to really process and release so much trauma and stored emotions and blockages. I have also been able to integrate all the learnings. My heart is so full thanks to all the love around me. It’s because of this journey that I started Soulful Feasts and wow! I am so thankful for how much it has grown.”
Anna and Sean share, “Being newcomers in the F&B industry here in Manila, we are thankful for the unexpected amount of guests that have come to support the restaurant.”
Kaye says, “I am most grateful for all the people who have made coming into the role as CCP President as smooth as possible, from my fellow board members, our sister government organizations, and of course the amazing staff and team at the CCP.”
Clari states how 2024 for her, was a year of growth and self-discovery through art. She explains, “I could list a million things that I’m grateful for, but at the top would be having the privilege of time. I’m thankful that I got to spend countless hours with myself, creating and pushing ideas from my brain into the real world. It’s so comforting to realize that I am content and at peace in my own company.
Next would be the support from my family and friends (irl and online). It’s so encouraging to know that people who matter to me are on board with what makes me happy.
I’m also grateful for the opportunities given to me in the Filipino art industry. I got to be part of group exhibits/projects, attended art events, and connected with like-minded people. The love I get from the art community is something cut out from a dream.”
Gabby shared what he is thankful for as well, saying, “I am grateful for the lessons and experiences that 2024 has brought me. These have helped me grow and understand myself more deeply as a person.”
“I am most grateful for my family, especially my parents, who have supported me in launching my own business,” Sofia intimates. She adds, “In the year 2024, I was able to launch my very own bridal fashion show. Without the help and guidance of my parents, all of these wouldn’t be possible!”
Rajo sums up what he is grateful for in the last year, saying, “I am grateful for family, for wisdom, for the ability to heal, I am grateful for forgiveness and hope.”
What is your outlook for 2025?
Jonathan’s outlook for the new year is all about reaching out to the local community more. “Makati is a city rich in diversity and culture, and I am excited about strengthening our ties with the local community. From a personal perspective, my recent collaboration with the Rockwell Running Club has inspired me to return to running. Sharing a few miles with such an energetic and positive group was both invigorating for the body and uplifting for the spirit. I look forward to continuing this journey of health and connection in the coming year,” he said.
Carlo on the other hand is staying consistent. “Just like every year, Lexus’ focus remains on delivering exceptional and amazing experiences that reflect our commitment to OMOTENASHI–which is treating a guest as one would in his or her own home.
By listening closely to our guests and anticipating their needs, we would like to strengthen the connections we have and foster an even bigger community for Lexus. Through carefully planned initiatives and events, we hope to always be a meaningful part of their journey.”
Meanwhile, Alby has much to share about the real estate industry: “Generally, real estate will be okay, depending on which side of the fence. High end real estate is safe especially in the BGC, Makati, Alabang, and outskirts. High end property rentals may take a slight dip with the exodus of POGOs. However, the rich people who’ve invested here will win in the long run because of scarcity value of their investments. So if prices of properties in the prime areas take a dip, the high end market will make use of their deep pockets and invest.”
The former CEO of Landco Pacific Corporation (the developer of luxury residential resort Peninsula de Punta Fuego) adds, “The POGO exodus and work from home (WFH) post Covid-19 phenomenon also won’t help the office sector. However, developers have tempered their supply and we expect to equalize within two to four years–faster in BGC and Makati. In short, expect flight to quality.”
He expounds further, stating, “The middle-end condominium market may experience a slowdown in take-up rates, which may squeeze developers to turn their units into rentals, rent-to-own schemes, or just ride it out until things turn around depending on their wherewithal. Take note that this segment is a rich source of renters as there is a multitude of middle to upper middle employees receiving monthly wages that can incorporate these rentals into their cost of living. These people will be sensitive to interest hikes. Developers who differentiate their product offerings, eg. sustainable and value-enhancing solutions will likely come out on top.”
To wrap up, Alby shares, “The lower end of the market is a large base that needs to be served. This market is made up of hardworking people who are saving up to reach their aspirations. They are sensitive to inflation and interest rate fluctuations, but they will persevere if prices of basic goods don’t go out of control. They are recipients of OFW remittances which continue to flow inward. Developers in this sector seem to have a green light in 2025 as long as they are keen on these sensitivities.”
“The PHINMA Group remains bullish on the various business areas where we have been participating. We have been focused on deploying and optimizing resources in Education, Construction Materials, Real Estate & Property Development, and Hospitality as our major business units,” Danielle states.
“The PHINMA Education Network business continues to grow to serve the needs of low income to middle income families, with a core belief that a proper education can equip our students and their families with much higher potential to excel in the work force in order to become productive and responsible citizens. We have a current enrollment figure of 167,000 students in 10 schools around the country, plus another two schools in Indonesia. Our goal and effort is to keep on growing our base in strategic locations around the country and regionally in order to serve more by making lives better through education,” she adds.
“My word for this year is Expansion! It has this beautiful outward growth and movement, a kind of velocity and momentum that gets me very excited,” shares Stephanie. To elaborate, she says, “This year is about embracing expansiveness in all aspects of my life: my heart, my patience, my compassion, my kindness, my creativity, my mind, my capacity to hold space, my strength – both physical and emotional, my spirit, my business, and my bank account! hahaha, I really feel good about this year. I feel so aligned with what’s in my heart and I am so glad I took a bet on myself.”
Anna and Sean remain positive for the new year. “As a whole, we’re seeing optimistic growth in the F&B sector, particularly with concepts promoting as much authenticity in their international cuisine and bolder flavors. Locally speaking, we see continued emphasis on regional cooking and Filipinos taking more and more pride in their cuisine as it continues to be in the spotlight globally. One challenge we see would be the ever-balancing act of providing value vs. quality as prices continue to creep up,” they said.
Similarly, Kaye is also about positivity and opportunities. “For 2025, we are very optimistic about the progress of the CCP Main Theater’s rehabilitation, and our upcoming programs as we continue to expand our reach,” she shared.
“We have upcoming this January the Ternocon presentation, which occurs every three years, so that is very exciting as well. We will also have the CCP Thirteen Artists exhibit sometime this year, which is also a triannual occurence,” the CCP President adds.
“I’d like to think that every new year is a chance to reset, like a first page of a new sketchbook, where the possibilities of how this creative journey can unfold are infinite. Nervous, but nevertheless, I’ll smear the page with a big bold brushstroke, in red! I want to be as excited and passionate as the day I started. This time with new mediums to try, new worlds to explore, new stories to tell,” Clari said as she locks in her 2025 goals.
“I already have many new creative ideas swirling in my mind that I can’t wait to bring to life this 2025. With the knowledge I have now, I hope every piece I’ll create becomes a step closer to the true reflection of my inner world (and the world I created for Redrum),” she adds.
Gabby on the other hand is welcoming the new year with more openness. “I’ve always believed that we are where we’re meant to be in life. My outlook for the year is to keep an open heart and mind for whatever comes my way. I ask for the grace to face all experiences and people with a heart full of love and passion,” he shared
Moreover, Sofia looks on for the new year. “My main outlook for 2025 is all about positive growth in all aspects of my life. Whether it be in my career, health, or relationships, I want to be more intentional and wise with my decisions,” she said.
“I am looking forward to growth. Not just for business but also for deep understanding on how we can proceed in our industry with much thoughtful intention,” Rajo shared.
What are you looking forward to this coming year for your industry?
Alby says, “I’m looking forward to election spending, more infrastructure works, continued OFW remittances, and more jobs from the BPO sector. Stay alert for geopolitical tensions as they tend to affect oil prices, security and inflation. We continue to invest in properties along the countryside because of their long and short term potential. We serve a universal need and have made it our purpose to provide our countrymen the dignity and respect they deserve in the afterlife.”
Danielle’s excitement is fueled by the youth. “My greatest source of excitement is the youngest member of the group, which is our UNION Insulated Panel Corporation, that is geared to serve the country’s growing requirement in cold storage and food security. This year is especially exciting for us since the construction of our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is already underway, with the commercial operations expected to commence by the first half of 2026. We have our foothold in the market and strongly believe in the growth potential of our key markets. Cold storage projects will continue to support our country’s growing reliance on frozen food sources for meat, dairy, select produce, and many other items.”
“The Philippine government through the Department of Agriculture has frequently spoken about the need for a robust cold chain sector, and will be actively deploying investment into this space to support Farm to Market initiatives which will help our farmers and fishermen across the country. This is very much aligned with our mission to Make Lives Better by building better, as our comprehensively designed insulated projects will help to support our country’s architecture towards food security. We are also bullish on the transition to insulated roofing and insulated wall systems, given the undeniable rise in temperatures that our country has been experiencing” she adds.
On the other hand, Carlo is looking forward for further innovations that may be introduced to his industry. “The industry is evolving in many exciting ways, particularly with the growing focus on electrification and sustainability. What I look forward to most is seeing how Lexus will continue to innovate while still focusing on our commitment to carbon neutrality and creating experiences that truly resonate with our guests. It’s a unique opportunity to redefine what luxury means in a changing world” he said.
Francis expressed excitement for new projects they are working on in Filinvest Hospitality Corporation. “Looking forward to the opening of Grafik Baguio and formally announcing a couple of other great projects,” he says.
Donnie is just overall excited with what’s about to come for the new year. “I look forward to getting deeper in these new journeys that began for me in 2024. I am also looking forward to the wedding of our son Christian and his fiancée Siobhan,” he shared.
“The food scene in Manila continues to evolve, becoming more diverse and innovative with each passing year. This creative momentum is incredibly exciting to witness and be a part of. At Makati Shangri-La, we are thrilled to be contributing to this vibrant culinary landscape with the opening of our new Japanese restaurant in April. We aim to bring a unique touch of culinary flair to the region, showcasing authentic flavors and exceptional dining experiences that resonate with the evolving tastes of our guests,” Jonathan adds.
Stephanie believes, “There are more and more people embracing the holistic wellness approach; more people who understand the importance of nourishing the body, mind, and spirit. This is exciting because it means more collaborations for me! With other like-minded individuals and businesses. There is so much synergy happening! Gone are the days of zero-sum game mentality and tough competition—I love that everyone in this industry has the abundance mindset and just wants to work together.”
“Every year is exciting in our industry because of all the new talent that emerges, the new ways we explore and perform,” Kaye said as she is also excited for the youth’s future.
Clari on the other hand looks at how trends will affect her industry. “I’m looking forward to witnessing the rise of the ‘anik-anik’ craze. It’s a thriving era for artists, where we are given the creative freedom to enjoy making these quirky little pieces that can be tokens of someone’s soul. It’s a way to express our individuality and connect with the art/artists we love. It’s a beautiful win-win situation for artists and collectors, and I’m happy to be part of both ends.”
Gabby and Sofia are both excited for possible collaborations. “I look forward to meeting and connecting with more like-minded individuals in my industry,” Gabby shares.
“I am most looking forward to possible collaborations with different artists; and exhilarating fashion shows that show unexpected trends and forecasts. I am ready for a bold season ahead,” Sofia adds.
Rajo is trying looking forward to be more sustainable, both professionally and personally. “To create without wastage, to create with a soft heart, to create with true authenticity. This is my wish,” he said.
Banner photo by Joseph Pascual for Lifestyle Asia.