As SEDA Law marked its 25th anniversary as a leader in the legal sector, the firm honored First Holdings Group Chairman and CEO Federico “Piki” Lopez with its prestigious Silver Coin Tribute during a gala dinner attended by around 600 leaders from the business, government and professional communities.
The tribute recognized Lopez’s “tireless and fearless advocacy for the advancement of sustainable and renewable energy sources”, a commitment that has positioned him as a pivotal figure in the country’s transition toward cleaner power generation and inclusive economic growth.
SEDA Law founding partner Jose Vicente Salazar, Esq., presented the award and cited Lopez’s far-reaching contributions to the country.
“Mr. Lopez has helped the Philippines embrace new power generation technologies, create new jobs, and generate more opportunities for young Filipino talents,” Salazar said.
“He did so while ensuring that communities and the environment are protected and preserved for future generations,” he added.
The Silver Coin Tribute, instituted by SEDA Law as a centerpiece of its 25th anniversary observances, honors Philippine leaders who have dedicated their talent, resources, and enterprises to building economic lifelines, creating jobs, safeguarding people’s values, and opening doors of opportunity for ordinary Filipinos.
Salazar said the tribute to Lopez “underscores the firm’s recognition of private-sector visionaries whose work aligns with national development priorities and long-term sustainability”.
Under Lopez’s leadership, the First Holdings Group has been at the forefront of expanding renewable energy capacity across the archipelago.
His advocacy has helped accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies that reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels while generating employment and nurturing the next generation of Filipino engineers, technicians, and entrepreneurs.
Salazar stressed that Lopez’s approach balances commercial progress with environmental stewardship and community welfare which he pointed out “is an ethos that resonates deeply with SEDA Law’s own commitment to responsible corporate counsel and nation-building.
The gala, held as the highlight of SEDA Law’s silver anniversary brought together a distinguished assembly of policymakers, industry captains, legal practitioners, and civic leaders.
The evening featured reflections on the firm’s quarter-century journey of providing strategic legal counsel in complex commercial, infrastructure, and energy matters, as well as its role in supporting clients who drive economic transformation.
Salazar said the presentation of the Silver Coin Tribute served as both a personal recognition of the valuable contribution of the honorees and a broader affirmation of the values SEDA Law seeks to champion: integrity, innovation, and inclusive progress.
Salazar said Lopez was acknowledged for “translating advocacy into tangible outcomes: new power plants, expanded energy access, job creation in emerging green sectors, and platforms that allow young professionals to contribute meaningfully to the country’s energy future”.
Salazar noted that “such leadership is essential as the Philippines navigates the dual imperatives of energy security and climate resilience”.
SEDA Law, founded a quarter-century ago, has evolved into one of the country’s most respected full-service firm advising clients on high-stakes transactions, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable development initiatives.
Salazar explained that the Silver Coin Tribute itself was conceived to spotlight individuals whose life’s work “mirrors the firm’s belief that law, business, and responsible leadership can together lift communities and protect the nation’s natural heritage”.
“By honoring Mr. Lopez, SEDA Law highlights the critical intersection of private enterprise and public good”, Salazar said.
“His efforts in championing renewable energy have not only modernized the power sector but have also created pathways for ordinary Filipinos to participate in and benefit from the green economy”, Salazar added.
“As SEDA Law marks 25 years, the recognition of leaders like Mr. “Piki” Lopez reinforces a shared vision: that economic lifelines must be built with care for people and planet, that jobs and opportunities must reach the next generation, and that the preservation of communities and the environment remains non-negotiable,” Salazar explained.#
f