By Angelica Ballesteros
Behind the remarkable success of Ayala Corp.—the oldest and one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines—lies the profound influence of a truly extraordinary woman.
Doña Bea Zobel de Ayala, whose unwavering guidance and resilience shaped the very foundation of the family legacy, will be remembered not only for her connections but also for her heart.
As the beloved wife of chairman emeritus Jaime Zobel de Ayala, who led Ayala Corp. for five decades, and the devoted mother of seven—Jaime Augusto, Fernando, Beatriz Jr., Patricia, Cristina, Monica, and Sofia—Doña Bea embodied grace and strength.
Born in Madrid, Spain, on Feb. 29, 1936, she remained a devout Catholic throughout her life, deeply committed to her faith, her family, and her country.
Doña Bea was a passionate advocate for Filipino culture and heritage, dedicating herself to various charitable endeavors.
She tirelessly supported causes close to her heart, including uplifting inmates at New Bilibid Prison, caring for residents at Tala Leprosarium, and championing her cherished charities: Elsie Gaches Village, a residential care facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and the Tuloy Foundation, which serves marginalized youth.
In an interview in 2008, she shared, “As my husband retired, I went more deeply into charity. I love solving problems.”
When Jaime, or JAZA, took the helm of the conglomerate, Doña Bea devoted her time to caring for her husband, embodying the spirit of selflessness.
“We have decided that this is the best time of our lives. I just want to be of help. Anything that will be good for the Philippines, I will be interested in,” she remarked, reflecting her unwavering commitment to her community.
Her daughter Sofia Zobel-Elizalde beautifully captured her mother’s essence, recalling that Doña Bea had a special gift for connecting with those who were disabled.
When others feared them, Doña Bea extended a welcoming hand. She often visited Elsie Gaches in Alabang, showering the children with affection and demonstrating that love knows no bounds.
One heartwarming story illustrates her profound compassion: a man without limbs lay on the floor inside a cage, feeling invisible and alone. Doña Bea insisted he be lifted, and when she embraced him, he wept as no one had ever touched him with such kindness.
In 1991, Doña Bea’s commitment to helping others led her to partner with the Ayala Foundation to launch the Iraya-Mangyan program in Oriental Mindoro, honoring the rich traditions of the indigenous Iraya-Mangyan community, especially their exquisite nito weaving.
Her daughter Beatriz Jr. fondly recalled, “I always remember being cold one night, going to the sheets and blanket closet outside my room and being showered with Mangyan baskets. That was essentially my introduction to my mother's love for the Mangyans.”
She built a rest house in Mindoro, where they often met the Iraya Mangyans, eager to learn about their culture. Initially, the Mangyans would run away, but through patience and dedication, Doña Bea won their trust.
My mother hiked up the mountains many times until a bond was formed, Beatriz Jr. shared.
Now, the Iraya Mangyans have a home, complete with a school and clinic run by the Sisters of Charity of St. Anne.
“This community, as with many others, has changed my mother's life as she has changed theirs,” Beatriz Jr. said.
On Tuesday, the world lost a beacon of love and compassion when Doña Bea passed away at the age of 88. While the details of her passing remain private, Ayala Corp. issued a statement requesting understanding during this difficult time for the family.
A memorial service was held on Friday morning at the Santuario de San Antonio Parish in Forbes Park, Makati City.