11/08/2026
Today, we remember my father, John Gokongwei, Jr., on what would've been his 100th birthday.
As a young boy in Cebu, Dad sold soap, candles, and thread in the market before dawn. Later, he crossed the sea by batel to Manila to sell his wares, eventually building a modest trading business that would grow into the Gokongwei Group.
Through every stage of his life, he worked tirelessly to build businesses that make quality products and services accessible to every Filipino.
Dad often reminded us that success comes from hard work, perseverance, and the courage to keep moving forward, even when the path becomes more difficult.
Those lessons continue to guide our family and everyone across the group. His legacy lives on in the businesses he built, the values he passed on, and the countless lives he touched.
Happy 100th birthday, Dad. We think of you always, and we remain grateful for the example you set for all of us.
