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The JCI Davao 78th Induction, Turnover, and Senate Investiture Ceremonies brought together nearly 250 guests on April 17, 2026, at the Apo View Hotel, marking a milestone night for the local chapter of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines. The event welcomed delegates from JCI chapters across the country, members of the JCI Philippines National Board, and JCI Senators, all gathered to celebrate a new chapter of leadership.
A New Theme for a New Term: “On Your Marc!”
The evening’s theme, “On Your Marc!”—a playful nod to incoming president Marc Leo Emmanuel Esponilla—set the tone for the JCI Davao 78th Induction. Beyond the wordplay, the theme captures Esponilla’s vision for the year: preparing members to step confidently into leadership roles, take ownership of projects, and build a stronger sense of camaraderie across the chapter.
Turnover Ceremony: From Castro to Esponilla
In the turnover ceremony, Esponilla formally received the gavel of leadership from outgoing president Engr. Anthony John Christopher Castro.
This moment capped a term defined by community impact and set the stage for the incoming board’s priorities for 2026.
A Meaningful Charging and Induction
The charging of officers carried special significance this year.
Traditionally led by the sitting Regional Vice President for Davao, the honor was instead passed to JCI Senator Jesus Leonardo “Toto” Mabaquiao, who served as Davao RVP in 2006 and as JCI Davao president in 2005. Current RVP Rod John Pandili stepped aside for Mabaquiao, who is also Esponilla’s uncle—adding a personal, full-circle moment to the proceedings.
The induction itself was conducted by Atty. Mark Peter Quilaneta, 2024 National President of JCI Philippines. Quilaneta also has deep ties to the chapter, having served as its 2018 president, 2021 Area Vice President, and 2023 National Executive Vice President.
Meet the 2026 JCI Davao Board of Officers
Leading JCI Davao for 2026 alongside Esponilla are:
- Secretary General Chaim I.P. Alonsabe
- Treasurer Jestoni Diaz
- VP for Individual Development Engr. John Paul Cordova
- VP for Community Development John Michael Montenegro
- VP for Business Opportunities Miguel Sandino Palileo
- VP for Internationalism Jules Ryan Manlitoc
- Director-At-Large Antonne Ansaldo Sola
Castro remains on the board as Immediate Past President, ensuring continuity as the new team settles into their roles.
JCI Davao 78th Induction Honors Nine New JCI Senators
A highlight of the JCI Davao 78th Induction was the Senate Investiture, which inducted nine members into the JCI Senate—the organization’s highest honor, reserved for those who have rendered outstanding service to JCI at any level. A Senatorship confers lifetime membership and recognizes a legacy of contribution to the JCI mission.
This year’s new JCI Davao Senators include:
- Atty. BJ Bonn Pusta – 2025 General Legal Counsel, JCI Philippines
- Khen Lexter Ignacio – 2024 Head Executive Assistant, JCI Philippines; 2022 National Secretary General
- Karl Imanoel Aoanan – 2024 National Executive Director, JCI Philippines
- Angel Constantine Bajana – 2025 ESG Committee Member for Asia and the Pacific, JCI
- Engr. Anthony John Christopher Castro – 2025 JCI Davao President
- Arch. Carlo Franco Santos – 2024 JCI Davao President
- Engr. Arthur Dizon Jr. – 2023 JCI Davao President
- Michael James Oppus – 2022 JCI Davao President
- Mamerto dela Torre III – 2021 JCI Davao President
Five of the nine new Senators are past JCI Davao presidents—a fitting tribute to the leaders who shaped the chapter in recent years.
Looking Ahead: JCI Davao’s Vision for 2026
With new officers charged, new senators honored, and a fresh vision in place, the JCI Davao 78th Induction marks the start of an exciting new term.
Under the banner of “On Your Marc,” JCI Davao’s leadership for 2026 is ready to build on its legacy, strengthen ties across chapters, and inspire its growing membership toward greater community impact throughout the year.
JCI Davao continues to welcome new members who want to grow as leaders, build meaningful friendships, and serve their community through impactful projects across Davao City. Those interested in joining the movement can reach out to JCI Davao through its official social media pages.
