MANILA, Philippines — San Miguel Corporation “deeply mourns” the death of its chairman and chief executive officer Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr., recalling how the business tycoon made a difference in the lives of its employees.
SMC described Cojuangco’s contributions to the company’s history as “numerous” and “indelible.”
“For decades, ECJ (Cojuangco’s initials) guided the San Miguel Group, making a difference in the lives of so many of our employees, past, and present. Values he lived by–malasakit, and sama-sama, the idea that we either make it together or not at all—are at the heart of what it means to be San Miguel,” the conglomerate said in a statement on Wednesday.
SMC recalled how Cojuangco, an “agriculturalist at heart,” championed the development of rural areas and the setting up of its agro-industrial operations.
“As SMC chairman, he guided our expansion, diversification, and transformation. His vision for San Miguel—to be a beacon of hope for the Philippines and a partner in nation-building—remains at the core of everything we do,” said the corporation.
A former ambassador of the Philippines to the United States and founder of the National People’s Coalition party in 1992, Cojuangco was known to have had a strong influence both in business and politics. He died on Tuesday at the age of 85.
“His impact on many other areas of Philippine life—sports, philanthropy—add to his rich and enduring legacy,” it added.