Century Pacific Foods founder Ricardo S. Po, Sr., 90

Tycoon Ricardo S. Po, Sr., Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Century Pacific Foods Inc., passed away at the age of 90 due to complications arising from surgery.

“We are deeply saddened to report that Mr. Ricardo S. Po, Sr. has passed away,” said the CNPF in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange.

His family said in a statement that Po passed away peacefully and painlessly on Oct. 11, 2021. “His family was by his side throughout the ordeal until he returned to the Lord.”

“He lived a full life raising his family, building his company, and perfecting his golf game,” the Po family said.

Under his vision and leadership, the Century Pacific Group has grown its interests from affordable food and beverages to family restaurant chains and sustainable real estate developments.

“He leaves behind a legacy of compassion through the RSPo Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger among vulnerable communities,” said the statement.

It added that Po was a “deeply devoted husband and a loving father not just to his children, but to the entire company, so much so that many within the Century Pacific Group fondly and respectfully call him ‘Tatay.'”

Po is survived by his wife, Angelita, his children, Ricardo Jr., Teodoro, Christopher, and Leonardo, and his daughters-in-law and grandchildren.

“Due to IATF restrictions, the wake will be restricted to immediate family. Please join us for the Novena Masses on Zoom. Details will follow shortly,” the statement said.

The Po family noted that, “In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to Caritas Manila's feeding program which was also one of his biggest advocacies.” (James A. Loyola)