THE demise of business tycoon and Philippine political kingmaker former Ambassador Eduardo "Danding" M. Cojuangco Jr. on June 17 has caused sadness to Negros politics, to his family, friends and his employees in San Miguel Group, Petron Corporation, and other investments comprising the tycoon's business empire.
He died at the age of 85.
With his passing, the Board of Directors and the entire San Miguel Group deeply mourn the passing of their chairman and chief executive officer, Eduardo M. Cojuangco Jr.
For decades, Danding Cojuangco has guided the San Miguel Group in making a difference in the lives of so many of our employees, past, and present. The 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.
His contributions to the company’s history are numerous and indelible. An agriculturalist at heart, Danding has championed the development of rural Philippines and the setting up of our agro-industrial operations.
As SMC chairman, he guided the company's 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 that we do, a statement from the SMG.
His impact on many other areas of Philippine life -- sports, philanthropy -- add to his rich and enduring legacy. "We offer our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. Salamat, Boss Danding," his SMG family stated.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Eduardo 'Danding' Cojuangco Jr., at the age of 85. Mr. Cojuangco, through his San Miguel Corporation (SMC), where he served as its Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), had immense contribution to the socio-economic development of the Philippines through the company’s operations in food, beverages, energy, power, oil refining, and infrastructure."
SMC has provided livelihood opportunities to tens of thousands of our countrymen as direct workforce, and creation of additional jobs as suppliers, distributors, retailers, and the like. In these trying times, Mr. Cojuangco’s SMC has been a reliable partner of the government in mitigating the impact of the Covid-19 by providing support and assistance to frontliners and vulnerable sectors.
The Palace offers its fervent prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of Mr. Cojuangco as we convey our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, friends, and loved ones.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said, "We mourn the passing of business magnate, public servant and philanthropist Eduardo 'Danding' Cojuangnco. San Miguel Corporation is almost synonymous to Danding Cojuangco, and in this time of crisis, SMC has been a great help by the support it extends to the efforts of the government in abating the negative impact of Covid-19. His keen business acumen, coupled with his inimitable brand of leadership, both in the private and public sectors, contributed greatly to the socioeconomic and political landscape of the Philippines and of course, Negros Occidental. He spent some good years of his life here in the province of Negros Occidental and he was known for his generous contributions to civic groups, civic actions, schools, teachers and church programs. His brainchild, Project Free for teachers showed his astute understanding of the importance of education in nation building. He clearly recognized the need to empower our teachers to be able to train globally competitive students especially now that Filipinos are faced with greater competition from other countries in the global job market."
"In remembering his legacy, the Province of Negros Occidental will continue the Project Free program," the governor added.
Bacolod City Lone District Representative Greg Gasataya, District chairperson of the Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC), the political party founded by ECJ, said, "The strong commitment of Ambassador Eduardo Cojuangco Jr. to nation-building, as evident in his works at San Miguel and founder of the Nationalist People's Coalition, will always remain in our memories. As Bacolod District Chairperson of the NPC, we will strive to ensure that his vision lives on. My sincere condolences to the Cojuangco family."
Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia, an NPC leader, said, "Ambassador Eduardo 'Danding' Cojuangco was bigger than life. He was a rare breed who excelled and reached the top of both business and politics. His example is one that we hope many in these fields will emulate. He is an icon who made a major and lasting impact on the growth and advancement of our nation. Truly, we can say he has touched countless lives. He was a major and dominant figure here on our island as he changed our physical and political landscapes."
He advocated for education and spearheaded the advancement of professional growth, and the impact of that is now apparent to us all.
He was a natural leader and easily became a magnet for other business and political leaders.
"On a personal note, his penchant to side with the underdog proved to be the turning point of my political career. His presence here turned the tide of politics in many ways and many places. I consider him my mentor and political godfather. And he gave me the political boost I needed at the time I needed it most. I salute my Boss Danding. Our deepest condolences to Tita Gretchen, the children, and the clan. May Boss Danding rest in peace," Leonardia said.