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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider DTI, business groups honor former Trade Sec. Jose Concepcion Jr.

DTI, business groups honor former Trade Sec. Jose Concepcion Jr.

Published Mar 6, 2024 05:55 am

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and numerous business groups in the country have paid tribute to former Trade Secretary Jose “Joecon” Concepcion Jr. who died on March 6 at the age of 92.

Incumbent DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said he is mourning the loss of Concepcion, who he  described as a “stalwart of entrepreneurship and business advocacy.”

Pascual remarked that Concepcion’s “visionary leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on the Philippine economic landscape.”

“The whole DTI organization extends sincere condolences to Joecon's family and friends, acknowledging his enduring impact on Philippine society. His legacy will forever inspire future generations toward fostering a thriving and pro-Filipino nation,” he added.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the country's "Voice of Business" also paid their respects to Concepcion, stating “it is hard to find suitable words to pay tribute to this truly remarkable man - a visionary known for his fiery brand of leadership and passion, and a giant among his fellows who demonstrated the rule of inspiring others.”

They noted Concepcion’s involvement with the group as chairman of the PCCI’s ASEAN Committee and Philippine chairman of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) and East Asia Business Council (EABC) in 2002.

“Under his leadership, he gave shape to several advocacies - stronger engagement of the business sector in international trade negotiations, business that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of its community and stakeholders, and a community that is vigilant for democratic processes,” it said.

“Joecon was such a strong presence that his passing is an incalculable loss.  The PCCI  is fortunate to have had him as an officer and will continue to honor his legacy of leadership,” the group added.

Meanwhile, the country's exporters honored Concepcion saying the former DTI chief was a "business icon and industry captain" who contributed significantly to establishing the Filipino brand in the consciousness of the domestic and international markets. 

"It was from him that we also learned and adopted inclusive growth as the fulcrum of our economic development," said the Philippine Exporters Confederation.  

Another industry group - the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) - honored Concepcion saying he was an “an industrialist, a public servant and a statesman,” who will be profoundly missed and remembered.

“When he was DTI Secretary he initiated the ‘Yes, The Filipino Can’ movement which was one of the inspirations of many Philippine franchises to expand beyond our borders,” said the PFA.

From the employers group - Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) - said Joecon is an "exemplary business leader and a staunch nationalist."

"The passage of Joecon, the dreamer, is a great loss for the country, but his unfinished dream will live on thru his son Joey III in his Go Negosyo movement," ECOP's statement added. 

In Makati Business Club (MBC)’s statement, it highlighted Concepcion’s historic leadership as co-founder and chairman of National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) and his term as an MBC trustee from 1984 to 1986.

“We express our condolences to his wife Maria Victoria A. Concepcion and his family, including Presidential Adviser Jose Ma. Concepcion III,” it said.

Former DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez expressed his personal condolences to Joecon’s family.  

“JCJ  was a big inspiration to many of us, in the fight for freedom,” he said, remembering his positive mindset. Lopez said that Concepcion was the original “Mr. ASEAN”.

“He was a true Filipino servant leader. Joecon or JCJ, you will always be in our heart. We pray for the eternal repose of your soul.  Rest in Peace.  You have won the battle,” 

Concepcion was Trade Secretary during the administration of late President Corazon Aquino from 1986 to 1991.

Around the time he co-established NAMFREL, he was a member of the 1971 Constitutional Convention, and the chief executive officer (CEO) of the RFM Corp. from 1965 to 1986.

READ MORE: NAMFREL founder Joecon dies at 92
 

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