Event Report

The Legal 500 journeyed to the Lion City to launch the 2022 edition of the Southeast Asia GC Powerlist at the grand and historic Raffles Hotel. Among the almost 140 attendees on the evening were the cream of the crop of regional legal luminaries; the most respected, well-known and highly regarded in-house lawyers that Southeast Asia has to offer. Joining the celebrations from The Legal 500 side were Ben Lovell global business development manager and GC Powerlist chief editor Joe Boswell. 

After networking drinks and canapes, guests settled in for the keynote speeches: first Joe Boswell, then Zac Sharpe, partner at Jones Day who spoke to the unique characteristics of Southeast Asia and the in-house lawyers who operate there. Finally, Miscen Desiderio-Dime, managing director of legal, compliance and regulatory affairs at Accenture Philippines spoke on behalf of the other in-house lawyers in attendance. In a charming, funny and moving speech, she spoke of how she got into law and what being a lawyer, particularly an in-house one, means to her.  

Of the evening, Miscen Desiderio-Dime said: ‘I had a fantastic evening meeting the best and brightest lawyers in Southeast Asia at the Legal 500 GC Powerlist. Thank you Legal 500 for this honor and allowing me the pleasure of delivering the keynote address.’ 

Kristian Nico Acosta, legal manager of Golden ABC said: ‘The Legal 500 is often regarded as the Oscars and Michelin of the legal profession. But the esteemed publication is more than recognizing law practice prestige and prominence. It is actually a platform to inspire and encourage other lawyers to follow the footsteps of their colleagues who have been instrumental in changing or forming opinions within their industry.’ 

Maree Myerscough, chief operating officer and general counsel Asia Pacific for Aquila Capital, said: ‘We were treated to a wonderful reception at Raffles Hotel Singapore and hosted by Ben Lovell and Joseph Boswell, who along with Zachary Sharpe and Millicent Joie Desiderio-Dime brought lots of great energy to the event. It was especially nice to reconnect with GCs from around SE Asia who had flown in for the event (hooray for regional events again!) and celebrate with Singapore-based peers who were also acknowledged including Lily Tsen, Terry D. Thornley, Hazmi Hisyam, Lukáš Zapletal, Carlos Estrada, Nick Fell, Adam Emilianou, April Raimundo and Hwee Ping Chua and Benita Lee. Congratulations to all!’ 

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