By Raymund Antonio
Vice President Leni Robredo said the death of business tycoon John Gokongwei Jr. was a “great loss” to both the business community and education sector.
Vice President Leni Robredo
(OVP / MANILA BULLETIN)
“Napakalaking ambag sa bansa, napakalaking ambag sa lipunan. Kaya iyong atin po, malaking kawalan, hindi lang sa business world, pero alam natin na lalo sa education,” she said. (He had a big contribution to our country and society so he was a great loss not only in the business world, but also in education.)
“Our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. John Gokongwei Jr. We will remember his many contributions not only to the business community but to helping our fellow Filipinos in need,” Robredo said in a tweet.
Gokongwei, who started his business empire by selling items thread, soaps, and candles in Cebu, died peacefully Saturday evening surrounded by his loved ones.
He was best known for his consumer business by founding Robinsons Retail Holding Inc. and Cebu Pacific Air that revolutionized budget air travel. He was the 3rd richest man in the Philippines, with an estimated net worth of $5.3 billion as of 2019.
The wake of Gokongwei will be at the Heritage Park in Taguig City starting today, Monday, until Thursday, November 14, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. The funeral mass will be on Friday, November 15 at 8 a.m. (Raymund F. Antonio)