Michael “Mikee” Romero has been recognized as one of Asia’s Most Outstanding Leaders at the Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards 2026 held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This accolade highlights Romero’s extensive career which spans multiple domains, including business, public service, sports, arts, and community support.
At 53, Romero is a notable businessman and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. His career includes significant contributions to infrastructure development, power generation, and community service in underserved areas of the Philippines. He continues to actively seek new opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to achieving and overcoming challenges.
The ACES Awards are organized by the Malaysia-based MORS Group and honor leadership, innovation, sustainability, and societal contributions. Romero’s recognition situates his versatile work within a significant regional context, bringing international attention to his initiatives.
Romero’s business career is characterized by a willingness to invest in sectors requiring substantial resources and strategic planning. He played a pivotal role in developing the Harbour Centre Port Terminal as a major cargo facility in 2003. In 2010, he also initiated a ₱23-billion modernization program for Manila North Harbour, enhancing its status as a vital hub for maritime trade. By 2018, he divested his interests in both the Harbour Centre and Manila North Harbour.
His ventures extend into aviation, having established AirAsia Philippines in 2010 and becoming its largest shareholder by 2016. After selling his stake to Malaysian partners in 2023, Romero shifted his focus towards real estate, mining, and power generation. His recent endeavors in energy include operating the Zamboanga Electric Company, addressing the growing electricity demands in the country.
Romero served three terms as a representative for the 1-PACMAN Party-list from 2016 to 2025. His legislative record includes the authorship and co-authorship of 148 laws addressing various issues, such as public health, education, and national defense. He was instrumental in securing funding for the Philippine Air Force’s acquisition of three C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft, enhancing the country’s disaster response capabilities.
In addition to his business and political work, Romero is actively engaged in humanitarian efforts, focusing on supporting communities with limited access to essential services. His outreach work has spanned from Batanes to various regions in Mindanao, where he has facilitated medical missions, school constructions, and housing projects, including the establishment of the Miguel Romero Foundation Community in Occidental Mindoro.
Romero has a rich sports background, having been part of the Philippine national trap shooting team and significantly contributing to basketball through the Harbour Centre team. His dedication to sports also led him to compete internationally in polo, achieving recognition in the sport with his team, the GlobalPort Polo Team.
Additionally, Romero’s passion for the arts is reflected in his extensive collection of Philippine artworks. He is an advocate for preserving the nation’s artistic heritage. Notably, his koi fish named High Note won the grand championship at the 37th All-Japan National Fish Show in 2007, marking a unique accomplishment in his diverse interests.
Romero’s ACES 2026 recognition encapsulates his multifaceted career and his ongoing impact across various sectors in the Philippines and beyond.
