A golden legacy captured in print
A new volume chronicles the club's history, personalities and milestones since 1975
Published Mar 10, 2026 01:59 pm
Photo above shows current and former Makati Sports Club Inc. directors (standing, from left): Charlie Casas, socials committee chairman; Atty. Fred De Guzman, corporate secretary and HRD committee chairman; Dr. Jose Sandejas, former MSCI president and one of the founders; Jennie Guerrero, vice president and membership committee chairwoman; Nandy Bengzon, house committee chairman; Roel Alonzo, construction committee chairman; and Roy Emata, sports committee chairman. Seated is architect Roger Villarosa, chief architect and former president of Makati Sports Club Inc., during the book launch event.
Makati Sports Club has unveiled a commemorative book celebrating its 50th anniversary, capturing the history and people behind one of the country’s long-standing sports and leisure institutions.
Titled "Makati Sports Club Inc. 50th Anniversary 1975–2025," the book was introduced as part of the club’s golden anniversary celebrations under the theme “Torch of Hope, a Jubilee Flame.” The publication traces the club’s development over five decades, highlighting key milestones, notable members and the personalities who helped shape the organization.
In her welcome remarks during the launch, board vice president Jennifer Guerrero reflected on the significance of the anniversary.
“Last June 12, 2025, we celebrated our golden anniversary. Today, we gathered to present a lasting tribute to this historic milestone. This book is more than a collection of pages. It is a chronicle of our journey, our achievements, and the people who have shaped our club through five remarkable decades,” Jennifer said.
She also acknowledged Director Maning Mendoza, who initiated the production of the commemorative book.
“His vision and dedication made this meaningful project possible, ensuring our legacy is preserved for generations to come,” she added.
Mendoza described the publication as both a historical record and a reminder of the values that have guided the club over the years. In a message read during the event by Socials Committee chairman Charlie Casas, he noted that the book reflects the collective spirit behind the club’s achievements.
“These pages capture not only our victories and achievements but also the spirit of teamwork and dedication that define us through the years. May this book remind us of the values we uphold, the friendships we have built, and the legacy we continue to strengthen. Let’s celebrate this moment with pride and look forward to the next chapters we will write together,” Maning said.
Guerrero and Casas led the ceremonial unveiling of the book, followed by the signing of official copies by members of the club’s board of directors. These signed editions will be preserved as part of the club’s archives.
Editor-in-chief Leonila Sy Navea later presented highlights of the publication, which includes features on past presidents, distinguished members, former board directors and employees who contributed to the club’s development. The book also contains a section titled “Kindled Moments,” which reflects on the personal stories and shared experiences that shaped the club’s community.
“This commemorative book gathers our history, our voices, and our shared journeys. Each page reveals stories of leadership, of friendship, sacrifice, and shared triumph. Stories that together form the enduring legacy of Makati Sports Club, Inc.,” Leonila said.
Among those present during the launch was Dr. Jose Sandejas, one of the club’s founders and a former president, who recalled the organization’s early days more than five decades ago. He shared how a group of sports enthusiasts, particularly players of pelota, sought a venue where they could regularly play, eventually leading to the establishment of the club with the support of the Ayala group.
The commemorative book highlights how the organization evolved from those early beginnings into a community built around sports, leisure and camaraderie, reflecting the people and milestones that have shaped Makati Sports Club through the years.