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.