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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Former Customs chief, logistics mogul Bert Lina dies

Former Customs chief, logistics mogul Bert Lina dies

Published Feb 25, 2025 05:12 am

Former Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Alberto “Bert” David Lina, who established a logistics and waste management juggernaut under the Lina Group of Companies (OneLGC), has passed away at the age of 76.

OneLGC announced Lina’s death in a Facebook post on Tuesday, Feb. 25. The date of his passing was not disclosed.

 

A self-proclaimed “kargador” (porter), Lina came from humble beginnings to build a business empire that transformed Philippine logistics in the process.

Lina founded Airfreight 2100 (Air21), one of the leading courier service providers in the country.

He expanded his business interests in marketing communications, business support, business process outsourcing, customs brokerage, and transportation, among others.

In its post, OneLGC recognized Lina for shaping modern Philippine commerce and revolutionizing support for the semiconductor, hazardous, and medical waste industries.

“His leadership style was uniquely personal - managing by walking around, greeting employees daily with boundless energy, and believing in everyone’s potential. This hands-on approach created a corporate culture of inclusivity that remains his enduring legacy,” OneLGC recalled.

Apart from his business acumen, Lina previously served as the BOC Chief in 2005 under former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and from 2015 to 2016 under late former president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.

Lina was also a consistent champion of Philippine sports, particularly basketball, cycling, and golf. 

Notably, in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), he was a former team owner of FedEX, Air 21, Burger King, and Shopinas franchises.

Lina was recognized for his distinguished service to the Catholic Church with the Papal Award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice from the Archdiocese of Manila.

He was also a Most Outstanding Manilan awardee, in acknowledgement of his exemplary performance in the logistics industry.

OneLGC has vowed that it will honor Lina’s memory by continuing his vision of excellence in service and commitment to national development.

The conglomerate stated that Lina will be succeeded by Lucia Jane ‘Sheila’ Lina who will be serving as Chairperson of Linaheim Corporate Services, Inc., Ube Express, Inc., Ekonek Pilipinas, Inc., Dynamic Outsource Solutions, Inc., Susumi Philippines Logistics, Inc., and Linaheim Corporate Travel and Tours. 

Meanwhile, April Rose Lina-Arboleda will be Chairperson of Academy of Developmental Logistics while Donna May Lina will be Chairperson of Ube Media, Inc.

Sylvia P. Lina will continue to be Chairperson of GO21.

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