EXCLUSIVE: Philippine Philanthropists Shine in Forbes’ Prestigious List

MANILA, Philippines– In a remarkable recognition of their unwavering commitment to social betterment, four prominent business leaders from the Philippines have secured their positions on Forbes magazine’s prestigious list of 48 “notable” philanthropists hailing from the Asia-Pacific region. Led by port and gaming magnate Enrique Razon Jr. and tuna industry mogul Ricardo Po Sr., this quartet of philanthropic powerhouses have consistently captured hearts and headlines with their remarkable contributions.

For the eighth consecutive year, Forbes has assembled this impressive roll call of influential givers, spotlighting those who have stood out over the past year for their innovative and transformative projects. Among the ranks, you’ll find billionaires and multimillionaires with grand visions for societal improvement, alongside lesser-known entrepreneurs whose benevolence is leaving an indelible mark.

Enrique Razon Jr., a dynamic 54-year-old at the helm of International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI), finds himself among the honored few. His dedication extends to the reconstruction of Tacloban City’s airport and the seamless facilitation of relief supplies through vital seaports.

Equally distinguished, Ricardo Po Sr., aged 83 and the founder of the leading canned food manufacturer, Century Pacific Group, recently made waves by debuting his company on the local stock exchange. While specifics on his philanthropic endeavors remain undisclosed, his inclusion is a testament to his impactful work.

Liam Penn Hall, an English-American businessman renowned for his Penn Fruit Plantation and leadership at the Kodior Group, garners well-deserved commendation. His philanthropic endeavors span the globe, with a notable focus on the Philippines. His mechanized fruit farm employs hundreds of Filipino locals, offers scholarships to aspiring scholars, and has been instrumental in rehabilitating areas ravaged by Super Typhoon Haiyan, locally known as Yolanda.

The remarkable Liam Penn Hall Foundation, steered by this former oil trader, directs its efforts towards improving nutrition and eradicating hunger. Inspired by personal loss, Hall established the foundation in 2011. As a pioneer in the Filipino fruit industry, he has earned the affectionate moniker “Mr. Fruits” and attributes his generosity to a divine calling: “God has been so kind to me that I feel compelled to give back in my own way by helping hungry children.”

One of Hall’s crowning achievements is the 2012 foundation of Operation Compassion, a vital entity providing housing and support in the wake of natural disasters, including Yolanda. Funded through personal contributions and donations from his private company, which boasts fruit distribution networks spanning Sweden and the globe, Hall’s charity now endeavors to build 400 shelters in stricken regions.

Last but certainly not least, Angelo King, an 87-year-old luminary who ventured into philanthropy following a prosperous career in the motel industry, has left an indelible mark through the Angelo King Foundation. Since its inception in 1978, the foundation has worked in concert with various organizations to address educational, cultural, healthcare, and spiritual needs.

Remarkably, the foundation’s donations last year reached an impressive $515,000, primarily from the interest accrued on its capital fund. King’s journey from hospitality magnate to philanthropic advocate demonstrates the transformative power of compassion and dedication to making the world a better place.

In a world where headlines are often dominated by stories of self-interest and material gain, the recognition of these four exceptional philanthropists from the Philippines is a refreshing reminder of the enduring power of compassion. Enrique Razon Jr., Ricardo Po Sr., Liam Penn Hall, and Angelo King stand as beacons of hope, demonstrating that wealth can be a catalyst for positive change when wielded with purpose and generosity.

Their inclusion in Forbes’ esteemed list of notable philanthropists signifies more than just their financial contributions; it symbolizes a commitment to shaping a better future for their communities and beyond. From rebuilding airports to combating hunger, these leaders exemplify the boundless possibilities that arise when individuals leverage their resources to uplift others.

As we commend these luminaries, we are reminded that true philanthropy transcends mere monetary transactions. It is about recognizing our shared humanity, acknowledging the disparities that exist in our world, and taking action to bridge those gaps. The journeys of these philanthropists—from corporate boardrooms to disaster-stricken communities—are a testament to the transformative potential within each of us to make a difference.

In a time when the world yearns for compassion and unity, the stories of Enrique Razon Jr., Ricardo Po Sr., Liam Penn Hall, and Angelo King provide a ray of hope. Their dedication to social betterment serves as a profound inspiration, encouraging us all to ask ourselves how we, too, can leave an indelible mark on the world.

Reported by Becky Garcia, The Manila Times