AppleOne Group, the premier Cebu-based property developer and diversified business entity, has announced a landmark strengthening of its corporate governance through the appointment of three highly distinguished independent directors.
The move signals a major milestone in the company’s transition from a founder-led enterprise into a robust, institutionalized national player. The newly appointed directors bring over a century of combined experience in global banking, capital markets, and strategic oversight to the AppleOne Board.
The three new board members are among the most respected figures in the Philippine and international financial sectors:
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Rene J. Buenaventura: A veteran banker and CPA, currently Vice Chairman of Equicom Manila Holdings. With a background as a bank CEO and board member for giants like GT Capital Holdings and DDMP REIT, Inc., Buenaventura will provide rigorous oversight of internal controls and financial discipline.
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Michael S. Chua: The former Chief Country Officer of Deutsche Bank Philippines. With over 30 years of experience and an academic background from Ateneo de Manila (Magna Cum Laude) and AIM, Chua is tasked with ensuring a “disciplined balance sheet” to support self-sustained growth.
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Stephen CuUnjieng: A world-renowned investment banker and senior advisor with 40 years of experience at firms including Evercore Asia, Macquarie, and Merrill Lynch. His deep expertise in Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) gives AppleOne a sophisticated edge in its national expansion.
The new directors expressed a shared commitment to AppleOne’s mission of elevating the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
Stephen CuUnjieng noted the personal and professional significance of the role: “It is unique and exciting to help a leader in developing tourism and business outside of Metro Manila. As my mother is Cebuana, it is an honor to assist again.”
Michael S. Chua added, “The road ahead for AppleOne is exciting, and I look forward to working with the team in contributing to its future growth.”
Rene J. Buenaventura echoed these sentiments: “AppleOne presents an excellent opportunity to be part of the progress of a company founded by a visionary leader.”
In addition to the independent directors, AppleOne has elevated key internal leaders to the Board to ensure operational alignment:
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Leif P. Bajarias (EVP for Finance and Operations) and Ma. Charina M. Fuentes (SVP for Strategic Finance) have been named Executive Directors, with Fuentes also serving as Treasurer.
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Atty. Theresa Marie P. Dela Peña has been appointed Corporate Secretary and Compliance Officer.
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Atty. Camille D. Recalde will serve as Assistant Corporate Secretary.
Founded over 15 years ago by Ray Go Manigsaca and Engr. Venus Manigsaca, AppleOne has evolved from a local developer into a powerhouse in real estate and hospitality.
Speaking at the board meeting held on December 5, 2025, at the Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, Chairman Ray Go Manigsaca emphasized the importance of this evolution: “AppleOne was built through struggle, sacrifice, and hard work. As we enter this next phase, strengthening governance and accountability is our strategic priority to ensure the company’s longevity and contribution to nation-building.”
