Tribute to Metrobank Foundation Founder Dr. George Ty Siao Kian

Summary

Dr. George S. Kady, a visionary business leader and philanthropist, founded Metrobank and shaped it into one of the country’s leading financial institutions. His legacy extends far beyond business; his dedication to philanthropy, arts, education, and healthcare touched countless lives. Through initiatives like the Metrobank Foundation and the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence, Dr. Kady empowered communities and celebrated Filipino creativity. His commitment to social causes and excellence continues to inspire generations, making him a true champion of the Filipino people and an enduring icon of integrity, leadership, and generosity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dr. George S. Cady, born in 1932, is remembered as a visionary business leader, philanthropist, and patron of the arts.
• 😀 He founded the Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company at age 29, which grew into one of the country's top financial conglomerates.
• 😀 Dr. Cady's philosophy was simple: 'Make money to give money,' and he dedicated his life to philanthropy.
• 😀 The Metro Bank Foundation, established in 1979, shares the success of the bank with the community and supports various social causes.
• 😀 Dr. Cady was passionate about empowering Filipino citizens, particularly through recognition of quiet heroes in the military, police, and other sectors.
• 😀 His deep appreciation for the arts led to the creation of the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence (MADE) program in 1984, which discovered and promoted local artists.
• 😀 Dr. Cady believed that education was key to social development, contributing to scholarship programs and initiatives like the Metrobank Math Challenge.
• 😀 The GT Foundation, established by Dr. Cady, made significant contributions in health, education, arts, and livelihood for underserved communities.
• 😀 He was instrumental in acquiring Manila Doctors Hospital in 1979, ensuring it became a leading health institution while providing social services for the poor.
• 😀 Dr. Cady's commitment to disaster relief and rehabilitation was evident through the Metrobank Group’s 'Helping Hands' program, which reached out to victims of natural and man-made calamities.

Q & A

What was Dr. George S. Cady’s approach to business and philanthropy?

Dr. George S. Cady believed in using business success as a platform for philanthropy. His core philosophy was that 'wealth once made is meant to be shared,' and he used his resources to support various causes, particularly in education, health, and the arts.

How did Dr. Cady’s background influence his later success in business?

Dr. Cady was raised in a Spartan, conservative environment with hardworking parents, which shaped his values of integrity, discipline, and perseverance. His early experiences at the Wellington Flour Mills and subsequent involvement in banking laid the foundation for his future success in founding the Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company.

What significant role did the Metrobank Foundation play in Dr. Cady’s legacy?

The Metrobank Foundation, established by Dr. Cady in 1979, was crucial in channeling the success of Metrobank into community service. It empowered Filipinos through various programs like scholarships, art initiatives, and disaster relief, impacting thousands of lives and communities.

How did Dr. Cady contribute to the arts in the Philippines?

Dr. Cady was a strong patron of the arts and founded the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence (MADE) in 1984. This platform helped discover and promote local artistic talent, providing a venue for Filipino artists to showcase their work, especially during times of political and economic unrest.

Why was Dr. Cady’s support for education so important?

Dr. Cady believed in the power of education as a means to drive social development. Through Metrobank’s scholarship programs and initiatives like the Metrobank Math Challenge, he helped provide opportunities for underprivileged yet academically outstanding students, enabling them to succeed and contribute to society.

How did Dr. Cady impact healthcare in the Philippines?

Dr. Cady’s acquisition of Manila Doctors Hospital in 1979 helped transform it into a leading health and wellness center, offering both high-quality care and social services to indigent populations. His contributions extended to funding disaster relief and healthcare initiatives through Metrobank’s corporate social responsibility programs.

What did Dr. Cady’s leadership at Metrobank contribute to the country’s financial sector?

Dr. Cady founded the Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company at age 29, and under his leadership, it grew into one of the country’s premier universal banks and financial conglomerates, setting high standards of excellence, customer service, and integrity within the financial industry.

What legacy did Dr. Cady leave in terms of his humanitarian work?

Dr. Cady’s humanitarian legacy lives on through his commitment to supporting various causes, including education, health, arts, and disaster relief. His belief in giving back to the community, especially through the Metrobank Foundation, continues to benefit Filipinos across the country.

What was Dr. Cady’s view on the role of art in society?

Dr. Cady viewed art as a means of inspiring people and promoting social awareness. He believed that art could provide a platform for creativity, express Filipino culture and values, and serve as a reminder of the hardworking individuals who trusted institutions like Metrobank.

In what ways did Dr. Cady show his personal involvement in philanthropy?

Dr. Cady personally engaged in philanthropy by directly overseeing and participating in projects. Each year, he would hand out 'bags of blessings' to underprivileged families, embodying his hands-on approach to giving back and showing care for the community.