PAL Holdings President Lucio Tan Jr. Passes Away at 53
Lucio “Bong” Tan Jr., son of Philippine Airlines taipan Lucio Tan, has passed away at the age of 53. The president of PAL Holdings and head coach of the University of the East Red Warriors collapsed on Saturday during a recreational basketball game in Mandaluyong City. He was abruptly rushed to a nearby hospital by his teammates.
Following his hospitalization on Saturday, the Tan family reported that the younger Tan was in stable condition. However, by Monday, it was confirmed that the PAL heir had passed away.
Tan had been playing for Philippine Airlines versus Exile at Gatorade Hoops Center when the incident took place. The 53-year-old businessman has long been an avid basketball player, with a reputation as an excellent outside shooter. In September, Tan became the head coach of the Red Warriors just a day before the start of UAAP.
On October 29, just two weeks ago, Tan was appointed as the president of PAL Holdings, the holding company of Philippine Airlines. PAL was the first Philippine airline to receive a four star rating from Skytrax, and was also named the World’s Most Improved Airline in 2019.
The Tan family’s billion dollar empire, LT Group Inc., also has business interests in banking, tobacco, liquor, and real estate. The Tan patriarch, 85-year-old Lucio Tan, is currently the 6th richest man in the Philippines and 436th richest billionaire in the world with an estimated net worth of $3.4 billion.
Statement from the family
The following is a statement released by Bong's sister, Vivienne Tan:
"It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of my brother, Lucio "Bong" Tan, Jr. this morning, November 11, 2019. He was 53. His untimely passing leaves a big void in our hearts and our Group's management team, which would be very hard to fill.
Bong was a son, husband, father, friend and, most importantly, our elder brother whom we all relied on for advice, counsel and leadership. He is survived by his wife Julie and sons Hun hun (Lucio Tan III) and Kyle Tan.
Our sincerest thanks to all who offered prayers and shared words of comfort during this hour of grief. Our family continues to request everyone to respect our wish for privacy as we go through this very difficult time. We ask for your prayers for the eternal repose of his soul. Wake details will be announced soon."
