Innovator. Entrepreneur. Philanthropist. These are just a few of the words that can be used to describe the legendary John L. Gokongwei Jr. who passed away on November 9that the age of 93. He founded JG Summit Holdings Inc. on humble beginnings and built a vast conglomerate that now spans the real estate, aviation, banking, media, petrochemicals and food sectors to name a few.
“Our beloved husband, father and grandfather John Gokongwei, Jr. passed away peacefully 11:41 pm, November 9th, at the Manila Doctor’s Hospital surrounded by his loved ones. Please pray for the repose of his soul,” Lance Gokongwei, the son of John L. Gokongwei Jr. wrote in a text to Esquire Philippines.
In the real estate arena, Robinsons Land Corporation was set up as the real estate arm of JG Summit Holdings Inc. in 1980. In the almost 40 years that has followed, the firm has become one of the acclaimed developers in the Philippines. The company’s work spans the entire country with projects in the residential, office, retail and hospitality sector. The homebuilder also expanded into China, making it one of only a few international developers to find success on the mainland.
John L. Gokongwei Jr.’s real estate legacy is far reaching but perhaps best viewed at the iconic Robinsons Galleria. Built in 1990 on the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, the development helped drive both the company’s and country’s growth in the following decades. The success of Robinsons Galleria created the foundation for Robinsons Malls to become a retail giant with more than 40 shopping centers in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, the highly acclaimed residential arm of Robinsons Land Corporation has helped elevate living standards for the public regardless of income. The firm now boasts 100 developments throughout the country under four unique brands: Robinsons Luxuria, Robinsons Residences, Robinsons Communities and Robinsons Homes.
The impact of John L. Gokongwei Jr. cannot be understated. His work and status as one of the Philippines’ first business disruptors has inspired generations of Filipinos. Dot Property would like to extend our condolences to the Gokongwei family and everyone at JG Summit Holdings Inc.