Eugene S. Acevedo, president and chief executive officer of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC), recently became a two-time author with the launch of his second book, "Reinvent and Outperform: Becoming a Better Leader." The event was graced by no less than the bank's chairman, Helen Y. Dee, the Doyenne of RCBC.
As an aspiring author myself, I must admit I'm a bit envious. Acevedo is quite prolific, publishing two books in such a short period.
I hold Mr. Acevedo in high esteem, particularly because of his unconventional background – he holds a BS in Physics. I can relate, as I'm neither a mass communication nor journalism graduate myself; my major was Chemistry with a minor in math. From my corner of the banking corridor, I sense the full support, trust, and respect he has earned from management, industry colleagues, and his predecessors.
Imagine this: he was able to invite the country's fourth Prime Minister and current RCBC vice chair, the 94-year-old Cesar E.A. Virata. Even some of his predecessors – Armando Medina and Lorenzo V. Tan – came out to show their support.
This physicist-turned-banker-turned-author is clearly brimming with creative energy. His muse has certainly been active since he unveiled his first book, "Never Stand Alone," just this past March.
He narrated in a published article that it only took him 19 days to write the first draft of the autobiographical chapters in "Never Stand Alone," which he dedicated to his wife, Dr. Cenia, and sons, EJ and Francis. In it, he shared poignant events from his childhood – memories that shaped him – as well as some of his notable speeches.
Yes Virginia, Mr. Acevedo's literary talents are undeniable. Who is his muse, you might wonder? This term describes a person who inspires a writer creatively. It originates from the Muses, the ancient Greek goddesses of inspiration. In his own words: "It was not in my plans to publish two books in a seven-month gap, but it happened.”
Aside from steering the bank as one of the country's top lenders, Mr. Acevedo has much on his plate: he's a Data Science student at the Asian Institute of Management, a member of the board of trustees of the University of San Carlos, chairman of Rizal Microbank and RCBC Forex Brokers Corporation, and holds top positions in several other RCBC-related businesses.
It wasn’t because HYD was present at the event, but he really considered her as one of his muses. The Grand Dame of RCBC gives Mr. Acevedo the flexibility he needs to manage his numerous responsibilities.
Here's a little vignette about HYD. As seasoned, semi-retired banker Ricky Cebrero (now an RCBC consultant, who once held the position of Senior Executive Vice President and treasurer of the bank), Union Bank EVP and treasurer Johnson Sia, and I watched the book signing, I was floored when Madame HYD passed by, stopped in front of us, and told Mr. Ricky, "I don't want to talk to you."
Let me be clear: her delivery wasn't hurtful. It was said with what we Filipinos call "tampo" – a playful sulkiness – and certainly with endearment. Now, I fully understand the reason behind the loyalty of the RCBC management and workforce.
Indeed, Mr. Acevedo embodies the idea that "gratitude turns what we have into enough."
Talkback to me at [email protected]