By Genalyn Kabiling Malacañang has expressed sadness over the passing of business magnate Eduardo Cojuangco Jr. and paid tribute to him for his “immense contribution” to the country’s job generation and socioeconomic development. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque
(CAMILLE ANTE / MANILA BULLETIN) Cojuangco, chairman of San Miguel Corporation and founder of Nationalist People's Coalition, passed away Tuesday. He was 85. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco, Jr., at the age of 85,” presidential spokesman Harry Roque said. "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 socioeconomic development of the Philippines through the company’s operations in food, beverages, energy, power, oil refining, and infrastructure,” he said. He said San Miguel Corp. under the helm of Cojuangco has also provided livelihood opportunities to thousands of Filipinos. The company has also been a reliable partner of the government in mitigating the impact of the coronavirus pandemic through its support for frontliners and vulnerable sectors, according to Roque. "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,” he said. Cojuangco built the country’s largest food and beverage conglomerate and became one of the country’s richest and influential tycoons. Read more: Eduardo ‘Danding’ Cojuangco Jr. dies, 85