Spearheading Innovation in Agribusiness: CEO Awards Honoree Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko

The Business Manual recognizes agribusiness luminary Aileen Uygonco-Ongkauko, CEO of La Filipina Uy Gongco Group, in its first CEO Awards.

At the forefront of the La Filipina Uy Gongco Group, Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko, the company’s CEO, embodies the essence of innovative leadership in the agricultural industry. Under her guidance, this century-old agribusiness has flourished, expanding its reach across the Philippines and Southeast Asia, and transforming into a beacon of agricultural excellence. For her astute leadership, The Business Manual has chosen to honor Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko as one of the country’s top leaders in its CEO Awards.

Diversification and Technological Advancements

Since its incorporation in 1971, La Filipina Uy Gongco Corporation has diversified significantly, encompassing a range of world-class products. The company boasts one of the largest flour mills in the country and is a key player in the production and distribution of flour and its by-products. Additionally, as the largest importer and distributor of fertilizer and a leading producer of animal feeds, La Filipina Uy Gongco Corporation has solidified its position in the industry.

Under Aileen Uygonco-Ongkauko’s leadership, the company has embraced technological advancements, notably acquiring state-of-the-art corn-drying facilities to produce RiCO Corn Rice, a healthier staple food alternative.

Agricultural Leadership and Policy Influence

As CEO of the group, Uygongco-Ongkauko oversees nationwide agricultural estates, including hog and sugarcane farms, flour, sugar, and corn mills, as well as ventures in realty, shopping malls, and hotel operations. Her role extends to leading the Agriculture Sector Group in the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), where she recommends policies and programs for national development.

Educational Background and Professional Achievements

Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko, an Ateneo de Manila University alumnus with a degree in Management Economics, has held significant roles including Directorships at South Balibago Resources Inc. and the Ateneo Family Business Development Center. Her professional journey includes former directorships at Aboitiz Equity Ventures International and Aboitiz Power International, among others.

Commitment to Local Communities

La Filipina Uy Gongco Group, under Ongkauko’s leadership, has pledged PHP35 million over the next decade as a platinum sponsor to WeatherPhilippines Foundation, Inc. Her appointment to the Board of Advisors highlights her dedication to creating a #WeatherWiser nation and supporting agricultural communities.

Meanwhile, the Uygongco Foundation, the company’s CSR arm, actively engages in initiatives focusing on feeding programs, education, and financial assistance, reflecting Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko’s commitment to social responsibility.

Awards and Accolades

The Uygongco Foundation has been honored with the Best NGO award in Region 6 by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (2015) and the “Salamat Po Award” for best practices in uplifting academically challenged children (2015).

A Pillar of Agribusiness Excellence

Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko’s stewardship of La Filipina Uy Gongco Group of Companies is not just a narrative of business success; it is a testament to her visionary approach in modernizing agriculture and her dedication to societal upliftment. Her leadership stands as an inspiring example of how innovation and commitment can steer a family business towards new horizons.

About The Business Manual CEO Awards: Celebrating Visionary Leadership and Business Excellence

The Business Manual is proud to present the inaugural CEO Awards, a prestigious event dedicated to honoring the most exemplary business leaders in the Philippines. These awards celebrate the achievements of CEOs who have not only led their companies to new heights but have also made a significant impact on their industries and contributed to the advancement of the nation.

Criteria for Excellence

The selection process for the CEO Awards is rigorous and multifaceted, reflecting the diverse roles and responsibilities of a modern CEO. Judges assess candidates on five key qualifications.

1. Effective Management and Strategic Governance – This criterion evaluates a CEO’s business achievements, including their ability to drive revenue growth and scale the business both locally and internationally.

2. Innovation and Versatility – CEOs must demonstrate how they have innovated within their organization to adapt to changing markets and stay ahead of competitors.

3. Brand Influence and Recognition – This measures the CEO’s success in building the company’s credibility and reputation, assessing brand awareness and recognition among diverse audiences.

4. Personal Image and Credibility – The focus here is on the CEO’s reputation, ethical leadership, and contribution to both brand and the company’s representation. This criterion evaluates how well the CEO is perceived by business partners, employees, stakeholders, and consumers.

5. Contribution to Society – This includes the CEO’s leadership in societal contributions, including CSR initiatives, local and international recognition, and efforts to benefit the country.

Nomination and Selection Process

The nomination process was open to the public, inviting individuals to propose candidates who exemplify the awards criteria. The nomination period began on October 26, 2023, and ended on November 10, 2023.

Following the nomination period, The Business Manual team shortlisted 30 final nominees across various categories and industries. An esteemed panel of judges, comprising representatives from key business organizations and the academe, then reviewed these nominees. The judges assessed each candidate based on the provided criteria and rate them accordingly.

The Business Manual’s esteemed panel of judges include: 

• Consul George Barcelon, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Private Sector Representative to the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC)
• Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad, President of the Management Association of the Philippines
• Joey Concepcion, Founder of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship and Private Sector Advisory Council Jobs Committee Head
• AIM Professor Eric Pike Caeg, President of International Council for Small Business
• Mylene Abiva, Chairperson of the Women’s Business Council Philippines
• Ronn Astillas, Chairperson of the Philippine LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce
• Katrina Rausa Chan, Executive Director of QBO Innovation Hub and Ideaspace  

The final results for The Business Manual CEO Awards were vetted by SGV. 

A Celebration of Leadership and Innovation

The Business Manual CEO Awards is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the transformative power of leadership and innovation in the business world. It’s a platform to showcase the brilliance, resilience, and positive impact of the Philippines’ most outstanding CEOs.