What happened last night, you say? The viewing of The Apprentice Asia’s season finale, held in HyvE, W Global Center, BGC, Taguig!

It was the final showdown between the two final contenders: our very own Jonathan Allen Yabut and Singapore’s Andrea Loh Ern-Yu, fighting for the position of Air Asia CEO Tony Hernandez‘s apprentice.

The night was filled with guests, media representatives, and (my) former workmates from Yabut’s former company: Glaxo Smith Kline and Globe Telecom.

Special guests also attended the viewing party, namely the top two finalist Andrea Loh Ern-Yu (Singapore), Dian Krishna Mukti (Indonesia), Nazril Idrus (Malaysia), Ningku Lachungpa (India), Samuel Rufus Nallaraj (India) and Celine Le Neindre (Philippines).

Sadly, it wasn’t a complete list of the former apprentice contenders. Also, Tony’s advisers Mark Lankester (CEO of the Tune Hotels’ Group) and Kathleen Tan (CEO of Expedia Asia) weren’t able to make it due to their busy schedules.

Opening remarks were done by the event’s host, Tricia, as she acknowledged the sponsors. The welcome remarks were graciously delivered by AXN Philippines’ Operations Manager, Mr. James Dumlao. After the welcome remarks, Andrea and Jonathan’s audition videos were played.

After the video playbacks finished, Ms. Maan Hontiveros (CEO of Air Asia Philippines) was invited on stage to introduce their newest surprise for all travelers. A raffle was held after the reveal.

Following the raffle, AXN Asia’s Vice President of Advertising Sales & Marketing Jack Lim was called on stage to also invite both former and current contenders of The Apprentice Asia on stage to do a small photo op for the media.

After the airing of the final episode, the winner was revealed. Jonathan Allen Yabut is declared The first Asian Apprentice.

Everything went crazy after watching the episode. Mr. Jack Lim and the contenders were called on stage once again to congratulate Jonathan for winning, which was soon followed by a heartfelt speech from the humble victor. A toast ensued, both celebrating the success of the show and of the winner.

Check out the gallery for pictures from the event. To Mr. Yabut, congratulations and a job well done!