Cover Meet some of the tycoons who are steering the Philippine economy forward while building lasting legacies (Photo: Getty Images)
Meet some of the tycoons who are steering the Philippine economy forward while building lasting legacies (Photo: Getty Images)
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As the country’s corporate landscapes evolve, meet three tycoons who remain at the vanguard, each managing their respective enterprises with tradition and innovation
Technological advancements, sustainability demands and shifting consumer behaviours contribute to the rapidly changing corporate landscape in the Philippines. With a thriving digital economy—thanks to e-commerce growth—Manila has emerged as a hotspot for enterprises with immense potential for digital platforms. At the same time, sustainability has become a key focus for businesses, with many shifting to greener practices.
The country’s economy is resilient, reflecting the Filipino mentality. It has strong growth prospects and a healthy investment climate, particularly in infrastructure, manufacturing, digital innovation and health.
These three tycoons among Tatler Asia’s Most Influential 2024 have emerged as significant figures in this opportunity-rich environment. Instead of merely reacting to change, these trailblazers are proactively promoting it. Their leadership represents the changing forces influencing the Philippine market, where innovation and vision are essential for leaving lasting legacies.
Ramon S Ang
Above Ramon S Ang, President and CEO, San Miguel Corporation
Ramon S Ang, President and CEO, San Miguel Corporation
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The formidable president and chief executive officer of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), Ramon S Ang, is an entrepreneur whose influence goes far beyond the boardroom. Known for his relentless drive and pragmatic foresight, Ang has taken SMC, a Filipino conglomerate, into new realms of infrastructure, energy and social responsibility.
Read more: Ramon S Ang proves that concrete vision is one of the keys to progress
A standout among Ang’s many ambitious ventures is the Metro Manila Skyway, a transformative infrastructure project that has made once-gruelling commutes in the metro smoother and faster. But in 2024, Ang took on a new challenge that encapsulates his ambition to modernise transportation: the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation, which marks SMC’s official takeover of managing the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Ang is steering a long-awaited overhaul of one of Southeast Asia’s busiest airports with this project. NAIA is set to undergo transformations aimed at efficiency, safety and comfort, marking Ang’s commitment to elevating the Filipino travel experience.
But Ang’s influence stretches beyond business and infrastructure. A quiet yet powerful philanthropist, he’s known for lending a hand in times of crisis and standing up for causes that matter. At the 2022 Tatler Ball, he won the Diamond Award and used the moment to pledge millions to U-Go, raising the total funds from an initial PhP8 million to an incredible PhP40 million.
Anton Tantoco Huang
Above Anton Tantoco Huang, President and CEO, SSI Group, Inc
Anton Tantoco Huang, President and CEO, SSI Group, Inc
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In 1994, Anton Tantoco Huang stepped into the role of executive vice president of Stores Specialists, Inc (SSI), the leading speciality store retailer in the Philippines. At the time, SSI only had three brands in its portfolio. By 2024, under his helm, SSI has expanded into one of the Philippines’ most influential retail giants, overseeing nearly 100 brands and more than 600 stores that span a diverse range of categories from fashion and beauty to furniture and food.
Read more: Anton Tantoco Huang opens up about the future of luxury retail and hospitality
In February 2024, Huang assumed the role of president and CEO, following the passing of his mother, Nedy Tantoco, who was instrumental in the company’s ascent. In honour of his late mother, Huang also accepted the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining award on her behalf, recognising her significant contribution to the arts and business. One of his remarkable feats as a true pioneer, Huang spearheaded the launch of SSI’s online platform, TRUNC, during the challenging period of the pandemic.
In November 2024, SSI unveiled the latest collections from four renowned luxury brands—Givenchy, Kenzo, Loewe and Versace—at NUSTAR Resort & Casino in Cebu. As the exclusive distributor of these prestigious labels in the Philippines, SSI strengthens its mission to bring the world’s finest fashion to Filipino consumers.
Read more: Cebu City welcomes Givenchy, Kenzo, Loewe and Versace brought by luxury retail SSI Group
Doris Magsaysay Ho
Above Doris Magsaysay Ho, President and CEO, Magsaysay Group of Companies
Doris Magsaysay Ho, President and CEO, Magsaysay Group of Companies
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More than just a pioneer in the shipping and logistics sector, Doris Magsaysay Ho is a female leader who is changing the way people traverse a world that is changing and becoming more interconnected daily. She is the president and chief executive officer of the Magsaysay Group of Companies, which significantly impacts markets in Canada, Japan, Hong Kong and the Philippines.
Having earned a master’s degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute in New York, she combines a CEO’s strategic thinking with a designer’s artistic vision to create a profitable firm and an engaging corporate philosophy that puts people, purpose and advancement first. Her influence in the maritime industry is further expanded by her roles as director of the Steamship Mutual Underwriting Association (Bermuda) and chairman of Lorenzo Shipping Corporation, in addition to Magsaysay.
Read more: Doris Magsaysay Ho on how essential the shipping industry contributes to humanity
Besides her business acumen, Magsaysay Ho is also a devoted advocate for education, culture and innovation. She is a trustee for respected organisations like the Asia Society, the Philippine Business for Education and the Metropolitan 77 Museum of Manila.
Syrah is Tatler Philippines’ Power & Purpose editor, where she spotlights extraordinary journeys shaping the Philippines and Asia. She covers business, innovation, impact, and culture—chasing the people, ideas and forces shaping how we live and think today.
