Aboitiz foundation marks founder’s life, legacy

AS Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) celebrates its 46th founding anniversary, its staff gives tribute to the life and philanthropic works of Don Ramon Aboitiz.

During the Nov. 17 episode of “Pagtuki” — a radio program of RAFI aired over dyLA every Saturday at 10-11 a.m. — a drama was made to give snippets on the life of Don Ramon leading to the establishment of his foundation.

Ramon Aboitiz was born on Nov. 16, 1887 in Ormoc, Leyte. He was the frontliner of the Aboitiz and Co. in Cebu, the company that his father Paulino started, and he further developed together with his siblings. The business today covers power generation, banking and real estate, among others.

At the age of nine, Don Ramon left Ormoc to study in Spain and London. When he returned to the country, he worked as a clerk in a merchant firm. His father then made him run the company. Through his perseverance and dedication, the company grew big and became successful.

With his success in business, he promised to help the less fortunate people. Don Ramon silently reached out to the different groups in Cebu.

Don Ramon married Dolores Sidebottom. They had two children, Eduardo and Maria Luisa.

In 1996, he established the foundation named after him.

Don Bosco is just one of the institutions he had helped. Don Ramon gave the Salesians a lot in barangay Punta Prinsesa, Cebu City where the Don Bosco Technological Center is now located.

Dominica Chua, chief operating officer of RAFI, also shared her insights on Don Ramon based on the accounts she learned. “Don Ramon was not only committed to his business but also to the welfare of the people. Every Thursday, beggars lined up for donations. He is also a very family-oriented man,” she said.

Chua said the establishment of RAFI has institutionalized the philanthropic deeds of Don Ramon.

“In spite of the success of their businesses, they remained humble and respectful. They are modest in spending their money and prioritized the needs of the deprived. Some of the values that he imparted are the importance of honor and reputation of a person,” she said.

“As RAFI celebrates its 46th year, we hold a big accountability to the integrity and reputation of the foundation,” she added.