Michael Say

Michael G. Say (born October 27, 1959) is a notable Filipino entrepreneur, publisher, economist, and advocate for economic democracy. He has made significant contributions to the fields of financial management, private equity, and venture capital. Say is also recognized for his work as a publisher and his dedication to promoting a democratic and open economy in the Philippines.

 

Early Life and Education

Michael G. Say was born on October 27, 1959, at Singian Hospital in Manila City, Philippines. He is the son of Miguel Say and Doctor Mary Juanita Say. His father, Miguel Say, served as the Mayor of Aparri, Cagayan, from 1966 to 1986 and was born in Aparri, Cagayan, on December 9, 1927. His mother, Doctor Mary Juanita Say, was the President of Manila Medical Society, Vice President of Philippine Medical Association and also head of the Charity Department at Chinese General Hospital in Santa Cruz Manila City and was born in Ballesteros, Cagayan, on May 11, 1931.

 

Say completed his high school education at St. Stephen's High School in Manila, graduating in 1976. He was also the champion of the Debate team in his high school days. He then attended De La Salle University Manila, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management of Financial Institutions in October of 1979. He also earned his blackbelt in Taekwondo during his University days.

 

Career

Publishing In the late 1980s, Michael G. Say established himself as a publisher with the launch of SAY Magazine. The magazine focused on Philippine economic growth and served as a comprehensive business guide, providing insights and information crucial for business development and investment in the country. Under his leadership, SAY Magazine became a respected source of economic analysis and business trends in the Philippines.

 

He is also the publisher of the following books:

Investor's Guide to the Philippines (1987)

Philippine's best 1000 corporation (1988-91)

Philippine company profiles (1988-91)

How to sell to the Philippine government (1988)

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He formerly sat as Chairman in the following companies:

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund Inc. (2021-2024)

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund Inc (2021-2024)

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He also formerly sat as President of a Publicly Listed Company with PSE:

First Metro Philippine Equity Exchange Traded Fund Inc. (Director, 2013-2020. President, 2020-2024)

 

He also formerly sat as Director of the following companies:

First Metro Asia Focus Equity Fund Inc. (2021-2024) First Metro Consumer Fund On MSCI Philippines, IMI Inc. (2021-2024)

 

He is currently the President of Ilocano Defenders Partylist.

 

He is also the Chairman of Mahal Kong Pilipinas Foundation.

 

Entrepreneurship

Say transitioned into entrepreneurship, focusing on financial management, private equity, and venture capital. His expertise in these areas has led him to become a key figure in the Philippine financial sector. Say's ventures have been instrumental in fostering economic growth and development, supporting various businesses through strategic investments and financial advisory services.

 

Advocacy

A staunch advocate for a democratic and open economy, Michael G. Say believes in transforming the Philippines into the "America of Asia." He promotes policies that encourage economic freedom, market transparency, and equal opportunities for all. Say's vision is to create a robust economic environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive, driving the nation towards sustainable prosperity. He believes in less government equals more business meaning less government restriction equals more economic growth. He believes in streamlining bureaucracies to discourage corruption and delays. He believes that government should only be a referee in the business world and that government's role is to help business succeed and generate more jobs and employment for the Filipinos.

 

Personal Life

Michael G. Say is married to Luz Policarpio Say, who was crowned Binibining Pilipinas International in 1978.

 

The couple has three sons:

Engr. Reagan Say, BS Civil Engineering. Mapua University Intramuros Manila. Class of 2007.

 

Engr. Morgan Say, Magna Cum Laude, BS Civil Engineering w/ Construction Technology and Management.

De La Salle University Manila. College of Engineering Valedictorian of October 2010.

 

Solomon Say, Summa Cum Laude of BS Management of Financial Institutions.

De La Salle University Manila. Class of 2015. The family resides in Manila City.

 

Legacy

Michael G. Say's contributions to the fields of publishing, financial management, and economic advocacy have left a lasting impact on the Philippines. His work as a publisher provided valuable economic insights during a pivotal time in the country's development, while his entrepreneurial ventures have supported numerous businesses. Say's advocacy for a democratic and open economy continues to inspire policymakers and business leaders, driving forward his vision of a prosperous and equitable Philippines.

 

Through his dedication and innovative approach, Michael G. Say has cemented his legacy as a transformative figure in the Philippine economic landscape.

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Favorite quotes

Set vision and goals, define solutions and methodologies. Make it happen, get it done!