From Tondo to Forbes: Ramon Ang’s Philanthropic Journey

Ramon S. Ang, a prominent Filipino businessman, has been honored in Forbes Asia’s 2023 Heroes of Philanthropy list, marking a significant recognition of his charitable endeavors. Ang, who is the only Filipino among the 15 distinguished Asia-Pacific business leaders on the list, is celebrated for his substantial philanthropic contributions. As the president and leading shareholder of San Miguel Corporation, one of the Philippines’ largest companies, Ang’s net worth is estimated at $3.4 billion.

A significant highlight of his philanthropy is the recent pledge of P500 million for building schools in underprivileged areas of Manila. This pledge was announced during the inauguration of a 39-classroom school in Tondo, Manila’s poorest district and Ang’s childhood neighborhood. His commitment extends beyond this single project; since 2020, he has donated over P150 million through the RSA Foundation to scholarship grants and medical aid.

The San Miguel Foundation, under Ang’s guidance, has also been actively involved in various philanthropic activities. It has allocated more than P1 billion for constructing five schools in Metro Manila, contributed P14.8 billion to COVID-19 relief efforts, and committed another P3 billion for cleaning the city’s rivers. The company’s president, Ramon Monzon, lauded Ang’s leadership, particularly highlighting San Miguel Corporation’s inclusive approach during the pandemic, encapsulated in their mantra: “walang iwanan” or “no one gets left behind.”

Forbes’ Heroes of Philanthropy list annually acknowledges corporate leaders who personally invest their fortunes and time in charitable causes. This list is exclusive to individuals and privately held companies where the donor is a majority owner. Among other noted philanthropists featured alongside Ang are Li Ka-Shing, Hong Kong’s wealthiest individual, who has donated significantly to education and healthcare, and Nandan Nilekani of India, the Infosys co-founder and chair, who recently made a substantial donation to his alma mater, IIT Bombay.

San Miguel Corporation, celebrating its 133rd anniversary, continues to embody a vision of a resilient and globally competitive Philippines. Ang’s leadership has steered the company towards a commitment to sustainability and national development, setting ambitious goals such as uplifting 15 million Filipinos by 2030, implementing a circular economy by 2040, achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and establishing a fully sustainable supply chain by the same year.