Concepcion was described as the “epitome of the patriot-industrialist,” who believed in a pro-Filipino policy to advance the Philippines’ economic development. He rallied Filipinos to support local industries by saying, “Yes, the Filipino can,” during his time as DTI chief.

He was credited for taking the RFM Corporation to greater heights under his leadership. As delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1971, he championed constitutional principles that would democratize the nation’s capital base to allow Filipino manufacturers to thrive.

During the 1986 snap Presidential elections, Concepcion moved thousands of ordinary Filipinos to join NAMFREL invoking that, “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”

His family also remembered him as a “scholarly enthusiast.” Concepcion held degrees in commercial science and agricultural sciences. He was the first to use radio-isotopes in the Philippines, applying it as a mechanism to find out how much phosphorus was needed in fertilizers to encourage growth.

In his retirement, Concepcion worked as the Barangay Captain of Forbes Park, famously alighting from his vehicle one night to direct traffic himself and unravel a gridlock. He was a civic leader who helped reform Pasay City by advocating for good government.

“Joecon lived his life in adherence to his principles: that the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing,” according to his family. He is survived by his wife, the former Maria Victoria Araneta, his eight children and his 31 grandchildren, and his twin brother, Raul.

His remains lie in state at the Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City beginning Thursday (March 7) until Sunday (March 10) from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. A Requiem Mass will be offered on March 11 (Monday) at 1:15 p.m. at the Santuario de San Antonio Parish Church, Forbes Park, Makati City.

As these events unfold, they collectively paint a picture of a world grappling with geopolitical tensions, technological vulnerabilities, and the passing of influential figures who have shaped the course of history in their respective fields. The discussions between the US and the Philippines may lead to a recalibration of strategies to address China's maritime assertiveness, while the tech outage serves as a reminder of our dependence on digital platforms. Meanwhile, Joecon Concepcion's legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the pursuit of democratic ideals. Each of these stories, in its own way, encourages a reflection on the complexities of our modern world and the ongoing challenges we face.

Namfrel mourned the passing of its founder in a post on X (formerly Twitter), and said Concepcion “inspired hundreds of thousands of ordinary Filipinos to take up the cause of free and fair elections.” 

“Mr. Concepcion was a visionary leader who truly loved his country, and believed in the power or ordinary citizens to effect lasting change in their own communities. Mr. Concepcion’s favorite quote was ‘It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness,’” Namfrel said. 

“Filipinos heeded his call, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of every NAMFREL Bantay ng Bayan volunteer who strives to continue what he and his fellow NAMFREL pioneers started,” the group said.  

Thank you sir for your selfless service to the nation in various capacities. Through TOSP, you have inspired the youth to be the best version of themselves and to be productive citizens by principle driven service to the country.

We celebrate your life and legacy, rest in peace Sir Joecon🙏💗

Wilma Flor Famoso

TOSP Batch 1998

2 Timothy 4:7-8

7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

I grew up watching your Dad and was always in awe with how he did his amazing work. He was also a dear friend of my Dad who always speaks very highly of him.

May eternal light shine upon him and may he rest in peace. 🙏🏻

My prayers for the soul of JoeCon

He was a man I idolize through the Namfrel and all the courageous things he lived and fought for.

A man of principle man of truth, men of courage. We will miss you.

May God accept your soul with the rich reward that you deserves from a life more than well lived 🙏🏻💕

Joecon or JCJ, you will always be in our heart. ❤️

We pray for the eternal repose of your soul. Rest in Peace. You have won the battle 🙏🏻

Mary Ann Marin-Streeter

A mournful day with the passing of a great man, my former Boss, Mentor and dear Friend Mr. JOSE S. CONCEPCION, JR., "JoeCon" .

REPOSTING A TRIBUTE

I wrote for Sir JoeCon on

17 November 2013

The thoughts and admiration remain the same Today, Tomorrow and Many Days After Tomorrow🙏😇💖

Mr. JoeCon, JCJ

AS AN EXTRAORDINARY BOSS

It is difficult to summarize in just one thought, rhyme or reason why JCJ is an extraordinary boss.

A writer once said “People ask the difference between a leader and a boss.

The leader leads, and the boss drives."

Mr. Jose S. Concepcion, Jr., JCJ as we fondly call him, personifies this quip. He sets the standard high both as a leader and as a boss. He is one that gets the staff do great things. One’s resourcefulness is put to test when he gives you an assignment. It pushes one to deliver relentlessly to its completion, outputs of what he wants and needs. He will make you realize that it is not an “Impossible Dream” after all.

Telephone calls made even at midnight or wee hours of the morning while he is working on his presentation for an 8am event the next day for either a BBC General Assembly & Annual Meeting or for a meeting in Malacanang, can keep one on her toes.

But my motivation comes not from fear of not being able to deliver but from his allowing me to articulate and share his Vision for BBC, for the organization.

“Leadership is not about titles, positions or flow charts.

It is about one life influencing the other.”

He allows me to be participative. He does not make me as a follower but into becoming another leader and manager. He views and treats me as a peer and not as a subordinate. He allows me to be myself and express my views no matter how contradictory to his these may be. But at times, though, he would cut me off and tell me ”do not disrupt my train of thought!"😄. While his patience may rub off immediately, humour can get him to cool off his temper.

Working with JCJ can be stressful at times but is and will always be a heart-warming learning experience.

You will be greatly missed Sir. GODspeed🙏💖

BELLE S. BELUAN

Former Executive Director

BISHOPS-

BUSINESSMEN’S CONFERENCE (BBC)

JC practised the best profession. Engineers build roads and buildings; Architects create plans and drawings and so does other professions building, creating something - JC on the other hand shaped, built and strengthened LIFE and CHARACTER of people - young and old.

Sir, you are a good teacher and mentor, and great inspiration to many. You will be missed BUT WILL SURELY BE REMEMBERED . . . ALWAYS!

I am deeply thankful for his life. Maraming Salamat po sir JoeCon.

Thank you so much for the inspiration and the great example that "The Filipino Can", "To dream the impossible dream" and "to light a candle" in darkness. It has personally moved me 18 years ago and will always be grateful to be part of the TOSP Family, to have personally worked with you in your business and to join you in the wagon of doing nation building. Indeed, you have done greater things in this country, impacted many lives and a great inspiration to many including myself. You helped me and your family (Ma'am Marie Young & Sir Joey Concepcion ) to find my voice and strength within. Maraming maraming salamat po.

Paalam Sir Joecon 😥🙏

With love and respect,

Roma, TOSP Batch Tanglaw

https://tribune.net.ph/2024/03/06/rfm-founder-joecon-92?fbclid=IwAR1FwZt8sxDxmmgEeDInyWztI6rHKPokhIz7py1lo8RURyorQjuWEp4d1q8

It was an honor to meet you, Sir. You're a hero for us volunteers.

Thank you for the bravery. Thank you for the democracy we have today.

Ruth Novales- Class of 1990,RFM

After my stint at DTI, JCJ took me in as his Communication Assistant. I was in his campaign team and joined him in his campaign sorties when he ran as Senator during the 1992 National Election.

He was a very simple man with simple pleasures. He does not mind eating inside the "palengke". He would just grab “adobong mani” from the vendors (we're behind him to pay for it since he does not have any money in his wallet); he would ask his driver to stop the vehicle because he wanted to buy "nilagang mais" and requires everyone in the vehicle to eat with him. When someone approaches him to shake his hand, even if he was eating, he would just rubbed the palm of his hands briskly from his pants, extend his hands for the handshake, and would eat again without wiping his hands. He has a way of eating “inihaw na bangus” as if he was eating fried chicken. By the way, you cannot stop JCJ from stepping out of his vehicle everytime there is a traffic. Complete with a whistle, he would stand in the middle as a traffic enforcer.

In October 1992, JCJ launched RFM Foundation, Inc. At the age of 23, JCJ entrusted me to be the Project Officer of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) until May 1995. It is where I started to develop my skills in project development and management, planning and budgeting, and monitoring and evaluation. JCJ empowered me to do my job.

In 1994, he and Mrs. Marivic Concepcion attended my wedding. I did not get him as my "Ninong", but I know if I ask him, he will not refuse. JCJ knew that my father passed away. When he saw me standing alone, he stood up from where he was sitting, walked towards my direction so he could walk with me and hand me to my soon-to-be husband. He just stood there and watched me marched. When I gave birth to my eldest, I decided to slow down. When I handed my resignation to JCJ, he asked me why I am leaving and I told him that I have to look after my son. I did not expect him to offer a nanny for me just to make me stay. Even when I was already working with another company, he even called me and asked me if I can still work for him.

JCJ, thank you and I am very grateful to have known you in this lifetime and to have worked with you. You have lived your life to the fullest and have touched many lives and I am blessed to be one of them.

I also had my share of memorable light moments with him. One Valentine's Day, I asked permission if I could leave the office early. When he asked why, I told him "I have a date." He said, "Okay, go on a date but don't get married yet." Four years later, I got married to a co-NAMFREL volunteer & RFM employee, and he was our Ninong.

Thank you for everything, Mr. JCJ. You will never be forgotten. You & your family are in our prayers.

Bituin Santiago-Jacinto

(RFM 1994-2001)

Before gradually withdrawing from public life, “Joecon” had been a name associated with election vigilance, especially after Namfrel played a central role in guarding the 1986 presidential snap elections, whose highly disputed results stoked weeks of unrest and eventually led to the end of the Marcos dictatorship through the Edsa People Power Revolution.

In tribute, Namfrel described its founding national chair as “a visionary leader who truly loved his country, and believed in the power of ordinary citizens to effect lasting change in their own communities.”

“His legacy lives on in the hearts of every Namfrel Bantay ng Bayan volunteer who strives to continue what he and his fellow Namfrel pioneers started,’” the group said in a statement.

In a phone interview with the Inquirer, Namfrel secretary general Eric Alvia took note of how Concepcion still chose to get involved in such risky civic advocacy despite being a rich and successful businessman.

“He saw that for change to happen, it would require a collective effort coming from the Filipinos. He always had hope and optimism for Filipinos to improve ourselves, and improve our country,” he added.

In the 1986 snap polls that Marcos called, the Namfrel quick count showed the opposition candidate Cory Aquino leading over the incumbent. Amid allegations of fraud and violence, the Commission on Elections proclaimed Marcos the winner, extending his hold on power.

Biz groups in mourning

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the country’s largest business organization, said: “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.”

In a statement, PCCI president Enunina Mangio said Concepcion was a (PCCI) charter member who served in various capacities but was most well-known for his chairmanship of the group’s Asean Committee, as well as the Philippine chairmanship of the Asean Business Advisory Council (Asean-BAC) and East Asia Business Council (EABC) when these were founded in 2002.

“Under his leadership, he gave shape to several advocacies—stronger engagement of the business sector in international trade negotiations, business that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of its community and stakeholders, and a community that is vigilant for democratic processes,” Mangio recalled.

The export-oriented Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (Fobap) called Concepcion a “multitasker,” and a “man-for-all seasons.”

“Fobap’s fond memories of the man was his engagement in the garment and textile industry by honoring and giving awards to the top 10 garments exporters every year in the ’90s, as a means of encouragement and due recognition to the industry,” Fobap president Robert Young told the Inquirer. “We need more Joecons today to revive and emulate his (vision of) industrialization.”

The Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (Go Negosyo) hailed Concepcion as “the epitome of the patriot-industrialist.”

“He believed in the Philippines’ ability to achieve economic development that was inclusive and pro-Filipino,” said the advocacy group founded by his son, Jose Concepcion III.

Building RFM

During his long tenure as president and chief operating officer of publicly listed RFM, whose brands include Selecta, Sunkist, Royal, and Fiesta, the late industrialist spearheaded its diversification into animal feed milling, poultry, and livestock. He also secured a license from American company Swift to produce processed meats in the Philippines.

“These propelled RFM to establish itself as one of the leading food and beverage conglomerates in the Philippines. Staying true to its vision of putting food on every Filipino table, RFM offered products that were mass-based, high-quality, and low-cost,” it added.

Go Negosyo further recalled that, as a delegate to the constitutional convention of 1971 representing the first district of Rizal, Concepcion championed principles that would level the playing field for business, allowing Filipino manufacturers more room to thrive in the face of foreign competition.

A product of the De La Salle University and Araneta Institute of Agriculture, Concepcion did not let his position of privilege shield or blind him from the harsh realities of Philippine society.

Martial law, Cory years

Under the Marcos dictatorship, he was arrested during martial law. While in detention, he organized a system among his fellow detainees so they could take turns doing chores and keeping order in their cell block.

His release from jail did not deter him from pursuing what he believed he must do for the country.

In a 1999 article he wrote for the Inquirer where he recalled his experiences leading to and during the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution, he said: “(Namfrel) began with the premise that in the multitude of issues, protests and demands that followed Ninoy (Aquino’s) assassination, it was evident that strong differences existed among the people and their leaders. And that in a democratic society, the fundamental and peaceful process of resolving differences is by elections.”

Serving as trade secretary under Cory Aquino (Ninoy’s widow), he was best remembered for leading the campaign calling on Filipinos to support local industries and buy local products. “Yes, the Filipino can,” his motto proclaimed.

Concepcion left government service in 1991 but continued with his civic work.

Well into his retirement years, he was elected barangay captain of the posh Forbes Park in Makati City. In 2000, he was among one of the most vocal private-sector leaders who called for the resignation of then-President Joseph Estrada amid the corruption scandals hounding his administration.

Flag at half-staff

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said Concepcion’s “visionary leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on the Philippine economic landscape. The whole DTI [Department of Trade and Industry] organization extends sincere condolences to Joecon’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,” he added.

Philippine flags at various offices of the DTI will be flown at half-staff in Concepcion’s honor, according to the agency.

Concepcion is survived by his wife, Maria Victoria Araneta, their eight children, 31 grandchildren and his twin brother, Raul.

Found myself singing and shedding tears this morning as I drove home...

He was a figure larger than life, a man whose name is forever etched in our nation's history, but to us, he is our Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines founder and the reason why Emman and I met.

Every TOSP session in Balai Taal that I attended, every speech he delivered had "Impossible Dream" woven in. It was a mantra he definitely lived by -- from bravely courting his wife to fighting against Martial Law and on to his many achievements.

Ninong Joecon, thank you for being so inspiring. Because of you, there are no impossible dreams, we just have to strive till our last ounce of courage. ❤️

Your Works And Legacy For Our Country's Freedom Will Never Be Forgotten.

You Will Always Be Remembered As The Man Who Light The Candle Of Hope For A Peaceful And Orderly Election.

We Will Miss You Sir JCJ.

But will light a votive candle to honor the man who inspired us at TOS to light a candle rather than curse the darkness.

It must have been fate when, during our orientation as Namfrel interns, I was last to be given assignment - your assistant. I was bit nervous at first, but was more thrilled to be working directly under the Chairman.

I love the challenge, especially knowing that I was doing more than photocopying and sticking labels. With Ms. Nora's guidance, I soon learned the routine. In the morning, each document including every newspaper is laid on the floor, and I would hand them as you ask for the corresponding docu number. At La Salle Greenhills, I'd print the vote count report in big fonts. Then we'd go to tv and radio stations for interviews, including late night show like Dong Puno Live.

One thing out of the ordinary I remember you by was one morning that ypu kept on asking me to call Patrick. I thought you meant your aide, Sonny. But when I finally said more clearly that I am Patrick, you looked at me for a while and said why I was "changing faces." You must not have recognized me from your office door with a new haircut with loads of gel to spike up my hair.

It was surely one interesting and eventful ojt experience. So much that I continue to volunteer in the next few elections. And true enough, at the end of my internship the following year, I sent you a message that I was open to continue working for you should there be opportunity. I did not receive a reply from you, but a few weeks after, I got a call, and was asked to report to MBC for an interview. From Namfrel chair, my new boss became Namfrel Sec Gen Bill Luz.

Sir, thank you for leaving us with this life lesson, "It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness."

Imee Javelosa Madarang

DTI, RFM, TOSP NAMFREL

Marie Young

I'm deeply sorry to hear about the passing of your father. He was not only a father but also a remarkable philanthropist whose generosity and kindness touched the lives of many. His legacy of giving and compassion will always be remembered and cherished by those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Please know that during this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May you find comfort in the memories you shared with your father and in the knowledge that his legacy of making the nation a better place lives on through the lives he touched.

🙏Offering my nine day Masses for him!

Former VP Technical Services

Selecta Dairy Products Inc., RFM Corp.

March 9, 2024

FAREWELL SIR JOECON

This afternoon I visited the wake of our RFM Founder & Chairman Jose Concepcion Jr. (“Joecon”) at the Heritage Memorial Park, Bonifacio Global City.

There was an ongoing program of the TOSP (Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines) Alumni who came to pay their last respects to our RFM Chairman Sir Joecon or JCJ. Sir Joecon started this initiative in 1961, on Dr. Jose Rizal’s 100th birthday.  The search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines was intended to pass on our national hero’s legacy to the Filipino youth, our  future leaders in nation-building.

We mourn the passing of Sir Joecon, who is the epitome of the business & civic leader who our current leaders should emulate.  He left a legacy of selfless public service with his advocacies such as the TOSP, as NAMFREL co-founder (free & honest elections watchdog), DTI Secretary, & 1971 Constitutional Convention member.

Farewell Sir!  You had a life well-lived!

It was during my time at RFM (Republic Flour Mills) Corporation that he was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention and formed NAMFREL. When he was detained in Crame during martial law, he didn’t waste any time. He had me bring his incoming paperwork  to him at the detention center and in turn I picked up the materials that he had worked on to distribute to the staff.  

JC was kind and generous to me and to others. He supported my involvement with the Philippine Association of Secretaries. The day I left the Philippines to start a new life abroad, he let me use his Volkswagen Combi, complete with a driver, to spend the day with my family and then take me to the airport. I met my husband, Eric, at RFM, and in 1975 we left the Philippines for Canada, settling in California a few years later. This year, we are celebrating fifty years of marriage.

My experience working for JCJ had an immense influence in the career I made for myself, working for top executives in Canada and the United States.   While he was an accomplished man in every way, for me, he was an inspiration who made a difference in my life.  

I thank Nora Baua, my successor as JCJ’s executive secretary, for serving him for 43 years, which gave me comfort knowing I left JC in good hands.

Mrs. Marivic Concepcion, children and grandchildren, I mourn with you during this sad time.  May loving memories comfort you

For us, JoeCon was that Good Man who chose to do something. I worked for NAMFREL under JoeCon for 12 years from 1992 to 2004, covering elections in 1992, 1995, 1998, 2001, and 2004. He was a man who didn’t understand – or chose not to accept – the expressions “No, it can’t be done” or “It’s impossible”. It was his sheer will and persuasion that he wanted us to work hard to make the impossible possible.

He started NAMFREL with the belief that power resided in the People and that our Voices should be heard. With that simple, profound truth, he led a crusade for clean, honest, and fair elections and eventually raised an army of 500,000 volunteers to monitor elections, watch over precincts, and the added audacity of running Operation Quick Count manually during a regime not known for its democratic practices.

I’ll always remember JoeCon and his briefcase and piles of paper, rifling through them with the help of his rubber thimbles. If you threw those thimbles away, he would lose his train of thought. Looking through his thick eyeglasses, he was like some absent-minded professor. But Joe was far from an absent-minded professor. He was relentless and persistent in his pursuit for solutions, and when people said things like “it couldn’t be done” he would always say, “It is Better to Light a Candle than to Curse the Darkness”.

He made all of us NAMFREL Volunteers feel important and he really cared for all the Volunteers. He loved travelling to see the Volunteers. I know it hurt him deeply when we had casualties in the early days and he would go down to the chapters to visit and condole with the families. JoeCon made every NAMFREL Volunteer proud to be a Volunteer. He imbued us with his mission to bring back decency to this messy exercise called Elections.

Without NAMFREL, there would be no People Power because it was the NAMFREL count which was the only reliable count left standing in 1986 after the government’s own election workers left their posts when they realized something was amiss in their count. I think maybe many people in today’s generation might forget that, but it was the last count running in 1986.

Without JoeCon, there would be no NAMFREL. He was that singular force of nature who talked endlessly to anyone about this crusade called NAMFREL and convinced many people to join across the country, willing to guard the ballots. If you will look at pictures of 1986 and other elections, you will see people chaining themselves to the ballot boxes guarding against ballot-tampering.

In the early days, there were a lot of successes, as evidenced by a string of successive elections for Presidents and other officials, all of whose results were validated by independent and transparent parallel or quick counts, except for a few cases of “dagdag-bawas”. The parallel counts were speedy and transparent so they allowed people to see what the real count was.

Now the irony is that today we’ve got the speed but done away with the transparency. Now, the pure speed makes the visible invisible.

So we still have our work cut out for us. But I’d like to thank Joe for my great 12 years and more working with him. He gave us hope and and he gave us courage -

“To dream the impossible dream

To fight the unbeatable foe

To bear with unbearable sorrow

To run where the brave dare not go”

Godspeed, JoeCon. We will always miss you.

Guillermo (Bill) Luz

NAMFREL Secretary General

1992 - 2004

May he rest in peace.

Maria Lourdes ‘ Baby ‘ Baua

Dad, i know you are here with me and will always be. I love you.

Being the youngest in the family, I may have been the FAVORITE baby.

I would always be excited to receive all the toys and latest gadgets that my Dad would get as his pasalubong such as toy cash register, barbie doll house AND the monkey toy that makes funny sounds. He was child-like and loved candies and lollipops, thrilled when he rides Disney’s It’s a Small World multiple times and the carousel.

Despite his busy schedule, he would be present in my school activities. He entered Colegio San Agustin like a ROCKSTAR with all my teachers taking photos with him. As soon as he comes home from a busy day at work, he smothers kisses in my cheeks full of saliva that I get annoyed and quickly wipe them away. In his last few days, I smothered him back with kisses and held him tightly just like what he would have wanted.

He loved to place notes around my desk, reminders that said I LOVE YOU and sweet messages. I stumbled upon Daddy’s notes to me that read:

“ TO MY FAVORITE BABY, shower with love daily your poppy while he is still with you. When RIP, too late. ONE FAMILY.”

Another note was to my friend dedicating the JOECON JOURNEY BOOK and he wrote:

“May this book challenge you to dream the impossible. Michelle, was one of those who challenge me to do, in moments of surrender.”

Dad’s room is next to ours as we live in the 2nd floor in Kawayan Forbes Park. He made sure he dropped by our room to check on us and played basketball with Gab and hugged my daughter Kayla and son Miguel. He will not go to sleep until he lays and tucks my kids to bed. 18 days ago, Feb 22, dad with his eyes wide open said I LOVE YOU to me. That would be his last.

Dad always wanted me to sleep in between him and mom, so I did so till the night before I got married. When I told dad I was going to marry Eric, he asked for one thing, that I live with him until he dies. That’s how he exactly said it….Dad, I fulfilled your promise.

Till this day, the closeness I have with Daddy has deepened and transcended to my 5 kids and Eric. I wished my youngest 1 year old daughter, Stella had more time with him whom she calls as PAPA.

Dad’s passion was to be a traffic enforcer, He would always have a whistle in his pocket. On our way to the church for my wedding, dad wanted to go down the car and direct traffic , I had to stop and beg him pls… DAD, pls just not for today , do not direct traffic on my wedding day! I wish you were here to walk me down the aisle as we celebrate our 25th Wedding Anniversary this November.

Dad made me part of his key decision making such as when he ran for senator, he would always ask my opinion in everything even if I was the youngest. Perhaps that was his way in training me to be sharper in making decisions when I got older. And in the last few years of his life, I was handling daddys daily routine and medical affairs. From the “minute” details such as what he eats, wears, arranging activities with his physical and piano music therapy, nurses and all the doctors coordination and to the grandest scheme of things.

Dad was a PRIEST BY HIS ACTION, he was very devout to Mama Mary always had Our Lady of Lourdes image and cross in his pocket. He would receive the holy communion but would hold it and intensely talk to Jesus through the Eucharist. I would arrange home visits with a lay minister to give him holy communion. And on Feb 28, 12 days ago, I made dad receive the holy communion right before the NGT was placed. That was his last.

The final days in the hospital may have been the happiest for his spirit seeing the slumber party of the outpouring of love from his family. Till the end, he still gathered us all together and didnt want us to go home. Thats how dad was.

I would like to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for dad: Please stand as I call your name: nurses IAN, SHERMAN, MAYLANIE, His Pyysical therapist RANDY, Dad’s PIANIST, ESPIE who on her own, continued to play the piano at the wake every night. And to our KASAMBAHAY Yaya Fe, Ester and all the KAWAYAN CARE TEAM.

Now that he is no longer a prisoner of Alzheimers, his spirit is now free to soar up in heaven and what he will see will give him so much pride joy and happiness as he sees clearly how his children and grand children continue his legacy in their own way of service to the country and making it a better place.

I am who I am today because my Dad always had an effective way of motivating and rallying everyone. Keep thinking positive, ISIP Aguila, think like an eagle , dream big and dream the impossible. He made a difference in society by being that light in the darkness.

I promise to continue to make you proud dad by leading by your example. I will continue to teach my children the values of integrity, loving unconditionally and ensuring that our family will continue to be prayerful just like how you are close to Mama Mary and Jesus. A Man of integrity, Honor and love for our Country, my hero my dad. Thank you for showing us the way to live like Christ. I am blessed to have you. Daddy’s girl forever.

I will end this with a song daddy would always sing this to me and his grand kids and you can join me in singing along:

“You are my sunshine my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey, you never know dear, how much I love you, please don’t take my sunshine away.”

GOD LOVE YOU

Thank you Tatay/Sir Joecon for being our role model of what it means to learn, lead, and serve for life!

Good afternoon. Thank you all for being here today to honor my dad. My name is John Concepcion, I am the fourth child and youngest son, the better looking one if I may add. When I was much younger, my dad’s nickname for me was John John.

Maya Angelou's definition of a hero is anyone genuinely dedicated to making the world a better place for everyone. By this definition, my dad is MY HERO. I learned the values of Hard Work, Integrity, and Honesty from my Dad. Early on, he instilled in me that my name was everything and that I should never do anything to tarnish our family name. He taught me the difference between right and wrong. Whatever dad chose to do, he gave it 100% all the time.

His passion for causes was contagious. I've always admired his sense of civic duty and his love for the country. These values shaped me into the person I am today, and I hope my children learn these values from me as well.

When I was 10 years old, I saw my dad stand up for what was right, even if it meant going to jail. Watching my dad get arrested is a memory I cannot erase. However, knowing that he stood true to his highest convictions fills me with immense pride! HE WAS, AND STILL IS, MY HERO.

He founded Namfrel 38 years ago, which paved the way for democracy through peaceful means. More than half a million people risked their lives to guard the ballots. During those days, as I was the only single son, I accompanied my dad to many Namfrel hotspots. One memory that stands out distinctly A Namfrel volunteer had been gunned down while protecting the ballots in a remote province. Feeling anxious as we made our way through the dense jungle to this remote location. Our only protection was the 'FOREIGN PRESS' sign on our vehicle. I observed my dad comforting the family of the fallen volunteer and then kneeling at the scene, gazing at the blood-stained Namfrel documents before he started to cry. This showed me his profound bravery and humanity. He exemplified the belief that lighting a candle is better than cursing the darkness.

Dad was both a dreamer and a doer, a true icon in Philippine business. Early in my tenure at RFM, I was struck by an RFM notepad that carried a simple but powerful message: ‘ACT NOW.’ This directive resonated with me, motivating me to DREAM BIG, THINK BIG, and above all, ACT NOW! It was Dad who coined the phrase Yes, the Filipino Can!’

—a phrase that reflects his unwavering belief in our potential. This inspired me to run Selecta, and to compete against the giants of the industry. Today, thanks to that inspiration, Selecta stands as the largest ice cream player not only in the Philippines but in Southeast Asia as well. Furthermore, it motivated me to establish my own business, the Standard Hospitality Group, with YABU as my first restaurant venture, a place my dad loved. In his final weeks in the ICU, struggling with his appetite, it was a Yabu meal sent by my daughter Nicole that he last enjoyed.

My dad taught me to love my job and to be passionate about what I do. I'm so thankful he saw my achievements and told me how proud he was of me.

My dad and I were alike in many ways, some good, some not so good. We were both absent-minded and quick-tempered. Once, While shopping in San Francisco with Dad and Peachy, I managed to leave my wallet full of cash in three different stores within a few hours. Having to retrace our steps to find it each time was frustrating, but by the third time, my wife Peachy was upset and exasperated. Dad simply put his arm around Peachy and said, “I’m so sorry, he is just like me!” making her laugh.

I'll miss enjoying a single malt and a cigar with him at a cruise ship bar, and having his favorite Selecta macapuno ice cream together. I will miss watching him devour a bistecca steak down to the bones or always choosing the ear of a lechon to eat. These simple memories of Dad are precious. Life will go on, but his memory and presence will always loom large and never be forgotten. How incredibly lucky I have been to stand on the sidelines of his life, watching and learning from him.

After my dad passed away, I discovered two letters he had written for my 40th and 50th birthdays. Reading them was as if he was speaking directly to me, with two messages, one for the 4th generation of our family and another for my siblings and me. I would like to share some of his words so you can hear my dad's voice: "You must be a living example to your children. You must develop and organize teams among the next generation, so that they can see the strengths and weaknesses’

of the generation before. The children of the next generation must work together, share their ideas so that they can benefit from each other, and especially if one turns to the other side, they can help him as a team. Remember, the family that prays together stays together.

When you were born, I brought you to our rundown parish in San Roque and asked the priest to baptize you John Marie Vianney after the Patron saint of priests because I prayed for you to be a priest. But now, my message to you as you turn 40 is not to be a priest of God but to be a priest of the family. It is a difficult task, but you can do it with humility, determination, and patience of listening, of reaching out to each of your brothers and sisters, in building our family to truly love, care, and share for each other.

My pride and joy, despite my very busy schedule, was to have ALL OF YOU and be PROUD and ENJOY spending time together at the beach, in Baguio, in the preparation of packages at the soup kitchen, assisting fire victims in Pasay.

This is your priestly role as you start new beginnings. I will be here actively with you, as we all carry out this effort to build our family so that our children will have something to look back on and be proud of, and continue to carry this heritage, which is founded on the values of LOVE, CHARITY, and JUSTICE. When I am no longer with you, then my mission would’ve been achieved if we have brought about the creation of a family that truly LOVES, CARES, and SHARES for each other. Then I can rest in peace like Abraham and David. I will be blessed by God, in the many Concepcions, that number more than the stars who are living by God’s plan."

These were Dad's words.

You know, it’s a running joke that we Concepcions love to argue, but at the end of the day, we truly love each other. You can rest easy, Dad, knowing that we will continue to build your legacy and support and love each other. And I promise to carry on your legacy through my children and grandchildren.

Dad signed his letter to me using his old nickname for me; he said, "WITH THE GREATEST OF LOVE FOR MY John John."

So today, Dad, before I say one last goodbye, I want to thank you for everything you’ve taught me. Thank you for showing me how to LIVE A LIFE filled with PASSION AND INTEGRITY. Thank you for teaching me to light a candle instead of cursing the darkness. Thank you for instilling in me that FAITH, LOVE, and FAMILY always come first. Thank you for being my DAD. Rest now and enjoy all the macapuno ice cream heaven has to offer.

WITH THE GREATEST OF LOVE, FROM YOUR John John.

collated and is sharing this:

Celine Agas “Thank you… I did not realize the demise of JCJ could affect us this much. Please relay to the Concepcion family especially MVC our appreciation for their generosity in sharing the requiem mass, all the tribute and eulogy for JCJ to all of us. They could have made all these private but instead invited and allowed us to share these moments of grief publicly and through zoom. JCJ had led a very prominently public life after all.”

Anthony Patrick Chua “Thank you… happy to be part of Joecon’s life. I will remember that short but very sweet and meaningful internship.”

Pam Asis-Layugan “Thank you… meant a lot too me…”

Robert Dimayuga “Thank you…He is one of the very few that loves our country.”

Elizabeth and Dyke Lahoz “Thank you…We appreciate the video, very touching. Rest in peace, One Great Filipino

Judy Morente “Thank you…I cry buckets. I owe JCJ where I am today. He is my inspiration in always a lighting a candle and spreading the light wherever we are. I will always pray for the repose of his soul and good health for ma’am Marivic.”

Consolacion Cristobal-Reynes “….thank you…I will always be grateful to JCJ for the privilege of working for him…”

Belinda Morales “Thank you. I watched it twice. It s a beautiful and a heartwarming tribute.”

Manette Pahuyo “Thank you so much for sharing this video. I wish I was there to pay my last respects to him. Praying for the repose of his soul and strength to his family. I didn’t see my boss BAC or perhaps just didn’t recognize him in this video….”

Senen Perlada “Thank you…Please convey my heartfelt thanks to Michelle, Mrs. Marivic, Joey and the rest oif JCJs children for sharing this sentimental video. Indeed JCJ will be sorely missed but his legacy will surely live on in the minds and hearts of those whose lives he has touched.”

Estrellita Lascano-Punzalan “Thank you….It made me cry”

Jimmy B. Regacho “Please thank the Concepcion family for their generosity and affection in sharing the video coverage of Joecon’s final moments. I am filled with much joy in knowing that I have a memento to remember my boss, mentor, trainer, and critic during my stint in his office in RFMCorporation. To the bereaved family, please kmow that you are cherished and esteemed just as I cherished and esteemed JCJ>”

Flora T. Tayag “Thank you…and I will share with Edna.”

Lourdes A. Torres “Thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute.”

Beng Valenton “Thanks Nora. Nakakaiyak”

Nancy Videna “Thank you so much… I tried to control my tears but can only hold for a while. I told SAK to give my condolces to MVC.”

Gina Ylaya “what a wonderful and moving tribute.

written by: Jennifer Teves, TOSP 2004

In a country where over 25 million people live below the poverty line, dreams are not really free. To dream, in fact, is a luxury that millions cannot afford to do in the midst of struggling to survive until their next meal.

This is not a rags to riches story

This is a story of a man named Jose S. Concepcion, Jr., an industrialist, a political activist, and a public servant. He championed democracy and co-founded the National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections or NAMFREL, the Philippines’ own election watchdog. He served the nation with an untarnished record as a trade secretary from 1986 to 1991 after the People Power Revolution that ended the Marcos dictatorship.

Mr. Concepcion or “Joecon” to many was not part of the poverty statistics. He came from the extreme opposite of the spectrum. Yet, he lived his life knowing that he had an important role to play to make a difference in the lives of his fellow citizens. He was a Filipino who believed in his country even when it was difficult to do so. He believed that “Yes, the Filipino can”.

He had a dream and I was a part of it

62 years ago, Mr. Concepcion founded the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP). TOSP honors the outstanding students of the nation who have personified academic excellence, exemplary leadership, and deep sense of social responsibility, anchored on good moral values. He believed that the youth is the nation’s hope. He embodied social responsibility by sharing his resources to empower and nurture the youth.

I was one of them. I was one of the recognized ten during my time and now a part of the thousands empowered members of the TOSP family across the world.

Those who were able to interact with him in person or listened to his speeches would have heard him utter the words, “light a candle instead of cursing the darkness”. Whenever I find myself complaining about my life, any situation, and especially the fate of my nation, I remember him saying that and I reframe my thoughts as: “How might I light a candle amidst this darkness?”

He was a very smart dreamer. He inspired many more to dream the impossible for our country. For me and the TOSP family, he was a father, a role model, an inspiration to never compromise our ethics, to live with integrity, to do good, to make a difference in this world… and, to help build our nation even when it feels like we take more steps back than forward.

The lone candle that he held for all of us have now multiplied a thousand times and then some.

This is not a rags to riches story. This is a story of a man who was born, raised, and lived a life of privilege and yet, he did not make that as the only thing that people would remember him by. He lived a life worth living. His is a legacy of a Filipino that makes me proud of claiming my heritage wherever I am in the world.

The Philippines lost one of her most devoted sons. I am mourning but I am also honoring Mr. Concepcion’s memories with great fondness and nostalgia.

Rest in power, Sir Joecon. I am joining the rest of your TOSP family in sending you to the heavens with your favorite song, “The Impossible Dream”. Thank you for sharing us your dreams and empowering us to dream so we can also enable others to achieve their dreams. I am lighting a candle in your honor and I will always remember to light my candle instead of cursing the darkness. We will take it from here. Maraming, maraming, maraming salamat po.

advocacies, particularly NAMFREL, which catapulted end of martial law regime! So I am sharing this Laughter Yoga session I conducted for his RFM employees… to show his other side not many people know… funny, happy, laughable side. He led his employees during the laughter Yoga session, of course, with his famous whistle. And, he had a small recorder which he puts near my mouth whenever I introduce a new kind of laughter. Hahaha!

Am so grateful to have done this unforgettable, memorable, tons of laughter LYoga session with Tito Joe.

Stay happy and cheer everyone in heaven with your laughter, Tito Joe. Peace and happiness be with you in His kingdom. As you pray for your family, we know you do pray for our beloved land, too. 🙏🙏🙏🤗🤗🤗❤️❤️❤️

As I heard each of you eulogize Tito Joe, I could feel the tremendous love you have for him and him for you. God truly blessed your family!

May Tito’s soul rest in peace with our Lord and may Mother Mary be by his side. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. 🙏❤️

Above all those accolades, his greatest legacy is in the family he has left behind. I will remember him most for being a family man - Papa or Poppy to his children and grandchildren who surrounded him until his final days.

Thank you for the example and encouragement that — we all can!

Rest in heavenly peace, Sir.

From Kate Bella

Happy Easter in Paris with Tita Vicky and Tito Joe Many years ago, Tita Vicky and Tito Joe visited me in Paris during the time when he was the Minister of Trade to President Cory Aquino. I still recall the thrill of seeing our Philippine flags draped along the Champs Elysées which perhaps anchored my memories of that Easter weekend with them in Paris. My first memory begins with dinner at Au Pied de Cochon, a restaurant in the trendy part of Paris which still exists today. Tito Joe’s choice because he said Celine and Vina liked it there! It was quite a walk and we got rained on so as soon as we were seated, Tito Joe ordered coffee! Our server didn’t seem to understand the international word “coffee” because he repeated “ cafe? Monsieur ? “, a few times. On his part, Tito Joe was unfazed and insisted, “coffee! Coffee!!” I remember processing the serveur’s confusion. And wondered … did we break some French ritual and tradition by ordering coffee before our meal? My second memory takes me to Montmartre where we attended the Easter Vigil Mass at Le Sacré Couer. Thé church was packed and I could only hear a lot of water splashing and voices shouting. Tita Vicky whispered that they were getting baptized and I contemplated on this and realized it’s connection to Easter! And lastly, the following day was Easter Sunday. I took Tita and Tito to my favourite place in Paris . Le Marché aux Puces, or the Flea Market at le Porte de Clignancourt.It was a joy to witness Tita Vicky honing in on her Lopez bargaining skills which got her a good deal on an antique ivory crucifix for Bernie. In the meantime, I looked around for Tito Joe?! Tita Vicky said that he probably went to get something to eat. And sure enough we found him savouring a baguette of grilled merguez that he had bought from an Algerian vendor. Tita was annoyed and asked him if the food ( from an open stall) was clean! I guess all that mattered to Tito was that it tasted good because he went back to get another one! So today as Easter is upon us , these anchored memories continue to float along in my heart even if more than thirty years have gone by. And from time to time when I attend an Easter Vigil Mass, like i will be doing this year, I will be reminded of that Happy Easter weekend in Paris with Tito Joe and Tita Vicky!

He advocates the Louie Allen style of management where we list down priority work that needs to be accomplished for the week and whatever that is not accomplished will be personalized the following week. This was later modified into exemption reports.

Copies of these reports are given to him. He has crates of voluminous documents from RFM SBUs. Every day in his office you will see his staff--Moises diligently sorting out the documents from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. We call this working habit planting documents.

Then at the close of office hours, he would mix them all together in the crates for planting/sorting again the following day.

I cannot forget that time after the EDSA revolution during our thanksgiving mass in RFM, he talked about the sacrifices of every NAMFREL volunteer. Then he broke into tears for those who died defending our democracy. (Tulo ohog)

Truly JOECON loves our country to be one of Asia's tigers by advocating YES THE FILIPINO CAN.

I used to go with him during the ASEAN conferences mind you mababalian ka ng takong ng sapatos sa kakalakad.

One time, he got angry at me for not doing his photo release. He asked me to get out of his room. After a few minutes, Moises came up to me with a photo of me and him which he captioned "Moyette peace" so bati na ulit kami. (too bad, I cannot find the picture in my kangkungan).

I look up to him as a father and a mentor but sometimes a terror teacher.

Sleep tight JOECON, the angels of heaven surround you. You gave a good fight!!

Thank you for mentoring me, thinking two steps at a time.

Goodnight JCJ. May your soul rest in eternal peace.

Mayette Sanga

RFM CORPORATION