A HIGH-LEVEL forum in Cebu brought together Philippine family business leaders to confront the pressing issue of leadership succession, amid a generational shift in the country’s privately held enterprises.
“Many founders are struggling with how to pass on their legacy without causing internal conflict or losing their strategic grip. At the same time, next-gens are looking for clarity and structure to lead effectively,” said Jon Ramos, a family business consultant.
Ramos was the keynote speaker of the half-day forum dubbed Legacy in Action: A Family Forum on Leadership, Succession & Strategic Renewal, organized by by Premier Family Business Consulting, held last Wednesday, June 4, 2025. The event brought together Gen X founders nearing retirement and younger millennial and Gen Z successors from across the country.
Ramos said the transition from founder-led to next-generation leadership is “one of the most delicate phases” for any family firm. He emphasized the need for structured governance to ensure sustainability.
Family-owned businesses make up roughly 80 percent of all enterprises in the Philippines, contributing over 60 percent to the country’s gross domestic product and generating up to 80 percent of employment. Yet only 30 percent of these businesses survive to the second generation, with just 10–15 percent making it to the third, and as few as one to two percent to the fourth.
Besides Ramos, the forum featured panel discussions, peer-led case studies and consultations with senior family business advisors. Speakers included Tim Wieringa of Hive17 Singapore, Wilfredo and Johnlerry Decena of WDA & Associates, and Ronnie and Elijah Gabalda of NIG Marketing.
Book launching
Meanwhile, to help families navigate the transition in family businesses, Ramos launched his new book Legacy in Action during the forum.
The book outlines his “Two Systems, One Legacy” framework, developed from consulting with over 150 family firms across Asia. The book offers practical guidance on managing succession, aligning generations and preserving both business continuity and family unity.
Ramos, known for championing the “underdog” spirit, has passionately dedicated his career to empowering families to build enduring legacies.
“This book is not just for your family, but for other families who may not have access to opportunities,” he said.
He announced that proceeds from the first 400 copies will go to charity: the first 200 to support marriage preparation programs for low-income families, and the next 200 to rebuild the Holy Family Retreat House in Cebu.
The book, also launched in Manila on June 6, is available for purchase via the publisher’s website. Ramos noted that discussions for wider distribution, including a future release in National Bookstore, are underway, pending final approval from its publishing house
He is also exploring school partnerships to make his book accessible for academic programs in family enterprise governance. / KOC