Firm History
Firm History

Fortman Cline was founded in 2007 by Daniel D. Ibasco and Gary P. Cheng with an initial focus on serving the Philippine market. The firm has since expanded to serve clients in other Southeast Asian economies. It currently has offices in Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, and Singapore, and has recently opened its New York office. In addition, Fortman Cline is close to launching its first private equity fund focused on the Philippines as part of its entrepreneurial finance activities.

  • 2007

    Firm founded by Daniel Ibasco and Gary Cheng with offices in Hong Kong and Manila

  • 2008

    Completed the first major transaction: the US$3.95 billion acquisition of National Grid

    Corporation (National Transmission Corp. Concession) by Calaca High Power Corp

  • 2009

    Ranked #1 by Bloomberg in terms of completed M&A in the Philippines

    Ranked #5 by Thomson Reuters in terms of completed M&A in Southeast Asia

    Completed the largest number of power and energy transactions in the Philippines

  • 2010

    Completed its first Southeast Asian cross-border M&A with client Thoresen Thai Agencies

    Completed the largest M&A in the Philippine fast-food industry with the sale of Mang Inasal Inc. to Jollibee Foods Corporation

  • 2012

    Established Singapore office

  • 2019

    Received the “Best M&A firm in Southeast Asia” award from Capital Finance Inc., London

    Received the “Most Innovative Solutions Provider” award from International Finance Inc., London

  • 2023

    Established Fortman Cline Management Services, a wholly owned subsidiary that offers strategic guidance and industry expertise pre- and post-M&A to help clients achieve sustainable growth, navigate change, capitalize on new business opportunities, and enhance their competitive position

    Received for the second time the “Best M&A firm in Southeast Asia” award from Capital Finance Inc. London