Former Trade secretary Jose Concepcion Jr., who epitomized the patriot-industrialist for a generation of Filipinos, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 92, his family confirmed.
Known as “Joecon,” he was also the founder of the election watchdog NAMFREL (National Citizens Movement for Free Elections) and former chairman of the board of RFM Corp.
Concepcion believed in the Philippines’ potential for inclusive and pro-Filipino economic development. Under his leadership, RFM diversified into animal feed milling, poultry and livestock, securing a license from the American company Swift to produce processed meats in the Philippines.
These propelled RFM to become one of the leading food and beverageconglomerates in the country, aligning with its vision to provide mass-based, high-quality, and affordable products for every Filipino table.
As a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1971, he advocated for constitutional principles aimed at democratizing the nation’s capital base to bolster Filipino manufacturers.
Concepcion was adept at inspiring ordinary citizens to action, often employing aphorisms and leading by example.
During the 1986 snap presidential elections, he mobilized thousands of Filipinos to join NAMFREL, stressing, “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”
As Secretary of Trade and Industry, he urged Filipinos to support local industries with the mantra, “Yes, the Filipino can.” During his detention under Martial Law, he organized fellow detainees to share chores and maintain order within their cell block.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) extended its sincere condolences to Concepcion’s family and friends, acknowledging his enduring impact on Philippine society.
“His legacy will forever inspire future generations toward fostering a thriving and pro-Filipino nation,” said Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual.
Former DTI secretary Ramon Lopez, who before joining the government was part of the advocacies of the Concepcion Group through GoNegosyo, underscored JoeCon’s contribution to civic society, business, advocacies, and the government.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Makati Business Club also shared their grief over the passing of Concepcion.
“It is hard to find suitable words to pay tribute to this truly remarkable man – a visionary known for his fiery brand of leadership and passion, and a giant among his fellows who demonstrated the rule of inspiring others. Joecon was such a strong presence that his passing is an incalculable loss. The PCCI is fortunate to have had him as an officer and will continue to honor his legacy of leadership,” the chamber said.
Concepcion served as the barangay captain of posh Forbes Park in Makati City upon retirement, famously stepping out of his vehicle one night to personally direct traffic and alleviate gridlock.
As a civic leader, he championed causes such as the reform of Pasay City through the Pasay Citizens League for Good Government.
He also co-founded the Capitol Jaycees, the Bishop-Businessmen Conference for Human Development, and the ASEAN Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
Concepcion was a dedicated scholar, holding an Associate’s Degree in Commercial Science from De La Salle University and a Bachelor’s Degree in soils and agricultural sciences from Araneta University.
He was a pioneer in the use of radio-isotopes in the Philippines, employing them to determine optimal phosphorus levels in fertilizers for plant growth. He later published a paper titled “Radio-isotope Phosphorus in Plants.”
Throughout his life, Concepcion remained steadfast in his principles, believing “that the only way for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”
He is survived by his wife, Maria Victoria Araneta, eight children, 31 grandchildren, and twin brother Raul.
Public viewing will take place from March 7 (Thursday) to March 10 (Friday), from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City. A requiem mass will be held on March 11 (Monday) at 1:15 p.m. at Santuario de San Antonio Parish Church, Forbes Park, Makati City.