Multi-Line at 40: A celebration of legacy and the road ahead

By Francis Kenneth Billones

Four decades is no small feat. For the Multi-Line Group of Companies, 40 years is a story of perseverance, partnerships, and the relentless pursuit of growth. On September 11, 2025, this story was retold in grand fashion at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, where family, friends, and longtime business partners gathered to honor the company’s journey and its future.

The evening was hosted by Veteran Journalist Ces Drilon, whose presence brought warmth and prestige to the celebration. Produced and directed by Joey Espino, a respected figure in the Philippine fashion and events industry known for staging world-class productions, the program combined elegance, creativity, and flawless execution—an event truly befitting Multi-Line’s milestone year.

A journey through time

The night began with a look back at Multi-Line’s history. Through video presentations, guests were introduced to the breadth of the Group’s businesses: Multi-Line Building Systems Inc. (building electronics and auxiliary systems, with new ventures into entertainment technology), Multi-Line Structures Corporation (architectural products), WorldCraft Furniture and Fittings Corporation (furniture solutions), and EverFirst Loans Corporation (lending services for pensioners).

Each story reflected not just a business, but a vision—proof of the Group’s resilience and its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its partners and communities.

Honoring partnerships

The celebration also highlighted one of Multi-Line’s greatest sources of strength: its business partners. From developers to contractors, awardees were recognized for their trust and collaboration throughout the years.

Among those honored were Monocrete Construction Philippines Corp., ARQUEE Corporation, Keyland New Manila Properties Inc., Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation, and Federal Land Inc. Also recognized were Bonifacio Landmark Realty and Development Corp., RHK Land Inc., Filinvest Land Inc., Hilmarc’s Construction Corporation, Makati Development Corporation (MDC), and Ayala Land Inc.

As the applause filled the ballroom, it was clear that these partnerships were not just professional ties but the foundation upon which Multi-Line has built its legacy.

A book, a vision

One of the most poignant moments of the evening was the launch of Where to From Here?, a book written by Multi-Line President Rey Angeles. More than a memoir, it is a reflection on values, leadership, and the path forward. Guests were treated to a replay of Mr. Angeles’ exclusive interview with broadcaster Anthony “Ka Tunying” Taberna, offering a rare glimpse into the insights and stories that shaped the book.

Adding a personal touch, host Ces Drilon engaged Mr. Angeles in a lively onstage exchange. Their conversation brought to life the themes of the book—perseverance, innovation, and a vision for the future—allowing the audience to connect more deeply with the author’s journey and reflections.

To mark the launch, Ar. Royal Pineda, who penned the book’s preface, joined the stage and led a ceremonial toast honoring the author and his legacy.

Looking ahead

To cap the evening, Multi-Line announced its relocation to its new head office on the 36th floor of One Vertis Plaza. Called the “fruit of 40 years of hard work,” the new office is more than a workplace—it is a symbol of the Group’s commitment to digital transformation and readiness for the future. Engr. Dino Maghirang, general manager of Multi-Line Building Systems Inc., spoke of the move as both a milestone and a promise: that Multi-Line will continue to innovate and serve with excellence in the decades to come.

The evening drew to a close with a ceremonial toast led by the company’s heads, who raised their glasses together with guests in a gesture of unity, gratitude, and optimism. It was a fitting finale to a celebration that honored the past while embracing the future.

People behind the scene

The event’s success was also made possible by the collaboration of Mr. Aristeo Tengco and Direk Joey Espino. Mr. Tengco, who took charge of inviting the heads of Multi-Line’s top clients and securing the Grand Hyatt Manila as the venue, worked hand in hand with Direk Joey, whose creative direction ensured the program’s world-class execution. Together, their efforts elevated the celebration to a truly memorable milestone for the company.

Gratitude was likewise extended to the dedicated teams whose hard work made the event possible: the MBI and MSC Engineering and Project Implementation Departments, the Business Development Department, the MBI Technical Support Group, the Warehouse and Logistics Department, the Purchasing Department, the HR Department, and the Advertising and Marketing Department. The overall preparation and execution was spearheaded by Engr. Webster Ceballos, MBI project manager, whose leadership ensured the successful completion of the project. The managers and sales team of the Multi-Line Group also played a vital role in welcoming and esteeming the guests throughout the celebration. Their collective efforts ensured that every detail was executed seamlessly, creating an atmosphere of warmth, professionalism, and hospitality.

For Multi-Line, the journey continues—guided by the same vision that began 40 years ago and strengthened by the partners, families, and communities who share in its success.