A man for others

This was written as a preface to a publication produced by Tarlac journalist Ver Buan in commemoration of the late Ambassador Eduardo Cojuangco’s birthday today.)

There are no words to describe the depth of the late Ambassador Eduardo (Danding) Cojuangco’s heart. The Tarlaqueño was a man of ultimate substance, a successful businessman who parlayed his expertise into a pathway of giving back to his home province and country that he loved with a passion.

Throughout his life, Boss Danding looked out for others. He took on the role of padre de familia in his teens after his father Eduardo, Sr. passed away at the age of 49 in 1952. It was never about personal ambition, it was always about doing things for the greater good. That was the legacy he left behind upon his death two years ago. Boss Danding touched the lives of millions during his lifetime and was engaged in activities that opened opportunities for a brighter future through education, livelihood projects, politics and sports. To this day, his influence remains pervasive as the imprint he wove in the fabric of Filipino society is a lasting testimony of a patriotic vision that knows no limit of time.

Even in his twilight years, Boss Danding was as enthusiastic in dreaming dreams to uplift the quality of life in Tarlac as when he served as governor from 1967 to 1969 and congressman from 1969 to 1972. His mind was a wellspring of ideas and he found ways to reach out to the poorest of the poor so that the marginalized sector had a fighting chance for a better tomorrow. He thought of providing access to credit for small-scale entrepreneurs who were unbankable but fiercely dedicated to succeed when the term “microfinance” had not even been coined. He thought of providing free post-graduate education for over 2,000 public school teachers to bring them closer to their goal of making significant impact on the lives of youthful students. He thought of providing free technical courses to thousands of out-of-school youth and partnering with the private sector in assuring jobs after their graduation. He thought of a business model where essential goods and services would be available to consumers, regardless of their social status, at the least cost. He thought of strengthening religious foundations by assisting the clergy and denominations to attend to their flock. He thought of widespread infrastructure development from roads to power to water in building a strong driver for growth. He thought of a health care system to deliver an essential service that wouldn’t distinguish between rich and poor. All these thoughts in Boss Danding’s mind became reality as he showed the way to bring about a better life for others.

As we commemorate Boss Danding’s birthday today and his death anniversary on June 16, we celebrate his life and thank him for the good he did. We are blessed that in our lifetime, we were witness to his great achievements. And for generations to come, he will be remembered as a man for others. May Boss Danding rest in peace in the Lord’s arms in heaven.