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The hardest part of any journey is the first step. This is true in every aspect of life: Your baby’s first step; your first bike ride without anyone helping you; your first date; your first day in school. It is terrifying simply because of our fear of the unknown and more significantly our fear of failure. What if she does not like me? What if no one in school likes me? What if I fail? What if I cannot do it? What if I lose everything?

When I officially announced Villar City, a master development by Golden MV Holdings, to the public, I called it my legacy project because I believe that this is part of my dream for our country — for our country to be truly world-class in every way. As I have always endeavored, whether in business or as a public servant — I want Filipinos to be able to experience the best that we can offer.

I was part of the high-level private sector delegation during the state visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Japan in February 2023. It was a smashing success as the trip produced numerous commercial deals and defense and political arrangements between the two Asian nations.