Days before its 27th foundation anniversary, Property Company of Friends, Inc. (Profriends) celebrated its employees whose years of service have helped shape the company’s enduring legacy. From five to twenty-five years of service, each awardee’s journey told a story of commitment, growth, and shared purpose.
In her keynote message, she revisited the company’s humble beginnings: in the aftermath of the 1999 Asian financial crisis, Profriends made the courageous decision to begin purchasing lots in Buhay na Tubig, Imus just a year later, and build houses in Cavite. It was a move anchored on the founder’s vision of building communities where families could thrive and have more meaningful time together. “Our founder said I see something bigger, I see something more. He saw that there is a bigger & more impactful way to do it,” shares Choa. “I see us buying huge parcels of land, I see us building houses in scales, I see us building a community of families, and I see us protecting the family by giving back time to them,” she further relates. From that vision, estates rose, financial institutions and investors placed their trust, and more innovations followed.
In closing, she encouraged the awardees to share their own Profriends stories—reminding everyone that these journeys matter. She emphasized the importance of passing them on, so long-time team members can stay connected to the company’s roots, and new employees can better understand who they are as an organization and the values that guide them. In the future, these stories will give courage and hope to others in times of difficulty,” she shared.
Stories of Dedication and Growth
The celebration came alive through the heartfelt stories shared by the awardees—each one a testament to dedication shaped over the years.
For Maricel Bautista of Cumbria Ridge Inc., five years with the company have been defined not merely by meeting targets, but by what those targets represent. Behind every number, she sees dedication, learning, resilience, and growth—values she continues to carry with her in every task she takes on. Grateful for the trust and support of management, she shared how these experiences have strengthened both her confidence and commitment.
A decade into her journey, Tet Bugayong of the Sales and Marketing Group reflected on what truly sustains longevity. For her, staying is not about the absence of challenges, but about making intentional choices each day—to remain, to adapt, to adjust, and to grow, even when growth feels uncomfortable. “I actually stand here because for ten years I kept choosing. And today I still choose to give my best,” she shared, capturing the quiet strength behind her milestone.
Fifteen years of service have given Marlon Cervania from Business Process Innovation a deep sense of pride in the unseen yet essential work his team delivers. Thankful for the steady support of management, he spoke about the collective effort behind ensuring the organization runs efficiently. Their work may often happen behind the scenes, but its impact resonates across the entire company.
For Jayson Garcia of Client Relations Group, reaching twenty years meant looking back on a journey that spanned multiple departments. Those experiences broadened his understanding of the company’s mission and deepened his appreciation for its purpose. Through the years, he witnessed firsthand how Profriends brings homeownership within reach for families in different communities—turning aspirations into reality.
Marking twenty-five years, Rodelyn De Castro from Corporate Research and Business Development reflected on how her time with the company led her to discover a strong sense of purpose. She spoke warmly of her colleagues and the culture that has shaped her journey. “Profriends has created a culture where people matter, voices are heard, and growth is encouraged. It is a place where challenges are met with support and where success is shared,” she said—a fitting tribute to a workplace that continues to grow with its people.
A Legacy Carried Forward
The ceremony was more than a recognition of tenure for the 95 service awardees recognized—it was a celebration of shared history and collective aspiration. Each awardee represents a chapter in Profriends’ ongoing story of resilience, innovation, and community-building.
As the company continues to grow, the stories of these service awardees stand as living reminders that behind every community built and every family served are dedicated individuals who chose, year after year, to build not just houses—but a lasting legacy.
