Joecon, a Titan of Philippine Business and History, Dies at 92

Jose Concepcion, Jr., known as "Joecon," a notable Filipino businessman, former politician, and activist, passed away at 92 on March 6.

Concepcion is renowned for co-founding the election watchdog National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) in 1983. The organization played a crucial role during the 1986 snap elections, conducting its own vote count, which sharply contrasted with the official results announced by the Commission on Elections (Comelec). This discrepancy was a significant factor leading up to the 1986 Edsa Revolution, which resulted in the ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos.

Before his involvement with Namfrel, Concepcion represented Rizal province at the 1971 Philippine Constitutional Convention, championing the causes of local manufacturers. He was also briefly detained following the declaration of martial law in 1972.

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After Marcos was removed from power, Concepcion was appointed Secretary of Trade and Industry, serving until 1991. Taking a short break from politics, he later won the barangay elections in 2000 at Forbes Park. During this time, he also joined the movement calling for the resignation of then-president Joseph Estrada due to corruption scandals plaguing Estrada's administration.

The business tycoon is also remembered for his inspirational quotes, including “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness,” spoken in 1986, and “Yes, the Filipino can,” a motto he coined during his tenure at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to motivate local businesses to thrive and compete globally.

Concepcion was notably the president and chief executive officer of RFM Corporation, marketing brands such as Selecta, White, Sunkist, and Royal (a spaghetti brand). He led the company's expansion into animal feed milling, poultry, and livestock sectors.

Under his leadership, RFM secured a license to produce processed meats from the American company Swift. The Concepcion business portfolio also includes the air conditioning and refrigerator brands Condura and Carrier, along with the elevator and escalator brand Otis.

"Mr. Concepcion, known to many of us as JoeCon, JCJ, or simply Joe to his friends, inspired hundreds of thousands of ordinary Filipinos to champion the cause of free and fair elections... A visionary leader, Mr. Concepcion deeply loved his country and believed in the power of ordinary citizens to bring about lasting change in their communities," Namfrel expressed on its Facebook page.

The DTI organization extends its heartfelt condolences to Joecon's family and friends, recognizing his profound influence on Philippine society. "His legacy is a beacon that will continue to guide future generations towards building a prosperous and pro-Filipino nation," the DTI shared on Facebook.

Joey Concepcion, founder of Go Negosyo and Joecon’s son, reflects on his father as a true patriot and inspiration. "Joecon, you will be immensely missed. May your legacy endure, inspiring future generations," said the Go Negosyo Facebook page.

Joecon leaves behind his wife, Maria Victoria Araneta, their eight children, 31 grandchildren, and his twin brother, Raul.