When Gerodias Suchianco Estrella (GSE) Law was founded in January 2006 by Raul Gerodias, Dimples Suchianco, and Toby Estrella, the three partners shared a simple vision: to build a firm clients could trust.
Twenty years later, that vision continues to define the Firm. Since its establishment, GSE Law has grown alongside a rapidly evolving legal and business landscape, navigating economic cycles, sweeping regulatory reforms, technological change, and a global pandemic while establishing itself as one of the country’s respected full-service law firms.
GSE Law marked its 20th anniversary on June 25, 2026, with a reception at Edsa Shangri-La Manila, where clients, colleagues, business partners and friends gathered to celebrate the milestone.
Where it all began
The occasion offered an opportunity to reflect on the principles that have guided GSE Law since its founding.
Founding partner Raul Gerodias said the Firm never measured success by its size.
“Our goal has never been to be the biggest law firm. Our goal is to be the most respected, the most trustworthy, and the most helpful. At the same time, we aspire to be the friendliest and safest place to work—a place where people can grow, thrive, and do their best work.”
Growing with purpose
The philosophy established at the Firm’s founding has shaped its growth over the past two decades.
“We started in 2006 with just three partners and seven associates,” she said. “Today, the Firm has grown to 18 partners, 35 associates, and two special counsels. We are a team of over 100 lawyers and staff—a testament to two decades of steady growth, shared commitment, and the continued confidence our clients place in us.”
For founding partner Toby Estrella, the anniversary was also a chance recognize the people who have been part of the Firm’s journey.
“Thank you for the trust, support, and opportunities you have given us through the years. You have been with us during important milestones and challenges alike. Your confidence in our Firm has helped shape who we are today.”
The anniversary extended beyond a single celebration through a year-long series of initiatives focused on community service, employee recognition, and alumni engagement.
The program began in September 2025 with Kaanib sa Misyon, a community outreach initiative undertaken in partnership with Fresh Hope for Families, CCT Paglingap Foundation, Inc., and Wholistic Transformation Resource Center (WTRC). Together, they brought legal, medical, and dental services to the Ayta community and students of Sitio Target Integrated School in Angeles, Pampanga.
The initiative later received the Gold Award for Community Impact and Civic Engagement from the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.
GSE Law also returned to the community to turn over a newly completed kitchen and laboratory facility, along with solar-powered streetlights intended to provide lasting benefits.
The heart of GSE Law
In January 2026, GSE Law held a Thanksgiving and Recognition Celebration honoring long-serving lawyers and professional staff for their loyalty and dedication.
Participants also took part in a symbolic ceremony, writing their hopes on lantern-shaped cards and placing them on a shared canvas of stars to represent the Firm’s aspirations for the future.
Later that month, current and former members reunited for Balik-GSE, a homecoming celebrating friendships and professional ties built throughout the Firm’s history and the enduring connections of what the organization calls the “GSE Family.”
Looking ahead
Twenty years after opening its doors with three founding partners, GSE Law is preparing for its next chapter. While the Firm has grown to more than 100 lawyers and staff, its leaders say its mission remains unchanged: earning clients’ trust, investing in its people, contributing to the communities it serves, and building on the foundation established in 2006.
