(Left to Right) Wilcon Depot AVP for Marketing Maeyeth Cadungog, AVP for Sales and Operations Rubylyn Candelaria, Desiree Cuerdo, AVP- Corporate Lawyer and Compliance Officer Atty. Sheila Pasicolan-Camerino, Chief Audit Executive Lauro Francisco, VP for Global Sourcing Michael Tiong, VP for Information Technology Keith Chan, VP for Investor Relations Mary Jean Alger, SEVP-COO Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, Chairman Emeritus Dr. William Belo, President and CEO Lorraine Belo-Cincochan, Director – EVP for Treasury Mark Belo, SVP for Human Resources Grace Tiong, VP for Projects Alen Alban, Executive Assistant Marie Guinto, AVP for Sales and Operations Harvy Cruz, AVP for Information technology Rowel Mapolon and Human Resource Executive Manager Emil Obispo.
The Philippines’ leading home improvement and construction supply retailer, Wilcon Depot, is celebrating Mr. William T. Belo, the company’s founder and chairman Emeritus, as he receives the prestigious and exemplary academic award conferment of the degree Doctor of Commerce, honoris causa (“for the sake of the honor,” in English), from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) on September 28, 2023, at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes OP Building, UST.
Dr. Belo earned a Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communication Engineering from UST in 1973, then later established a 60-square-meter hardware store along Quezon Avenue in 1977 as his passion pushed him to start and establish his own business. He began as a simple entrepreneur and owner who aspired to help Filipino homeowners and builders in building, improving, and refining their homes for a sustainable and comfortable life.
As years went by, Wilcon Depot eventually established itself as the most in-demand one-stop shop for home improvement and construction needs, while Dr. Belo has been recognized as an influential figure in the business landscape of the Philippines, particularly in the field of commerce and retail, making his company, Wilcon Depot, the most trusted home improvement and construction supplies retailer.
Dr. Belo’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence have not only made a significant impact on the business sector but have also contributed to the growth and development of the Philippines. “He is a man of vision. His leadership in the corporate world has not only revolutionized industries but also created opportunities for the economic growth of the Philippines,” Fr. Ang said.
The honorary degree of Doctor of Commerce Honoris Causa is a testament to Mr. Belo’s outstanding contributions to the business community, his dedication to corporate social responsibility, and his remarkable philanthropic endeavors. This recognition reflects his exemplary leadership, ethics, and commitment to excellence, which align with the values and mission of the University of Santo Tomas.
Thomasanians are honoring him not just for his success in business but also for his guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the lockdown pushed them to rebuild and rehabilitate the Thomasian community’s home in readiness for the new work and study setup, Fr. Ang stated, “Home is a basic human need that provides comfort and safety. For this reason, the legacy of our honorary as the alchemist of home improvements will live on in our hearts and memories.”
As he concluded his speech, Mr. Belo emphasized the importance of education as a driving force for positive change in society. He encouraged the students and young minds present to pursue their dreams relentlessly, to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and to always prioritize values and integrity in their professional journey. He also shares three entwining aspects he learned in his career: (1) The importance of value-driven vision and dreams and what you want to become, (2) the value of hard work in building meaningful relationships, (3) and the sense of fulfillment in service in giving back.
The Solemn Investiture Ceremony was attended and witnessed by the conferment of the degree Doctor of Commerce, Very Rev. Fr. Filemon I. Dela Cruz, O.P., SThL , Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D., Prof. Michael Anthony C. Vasco, Ph.D., Prof. Cheryl R. Peralta, DrPH, other school officials, family members, including Mr. Mark Belo and Wilcon Depot President and CEO Lorraine Belo-Cincochan. Wilcon executives were also present, including Wilcon Depot SEVP-COO Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, who witnessed the momentous occasion.
This remarkable achievement is not only for Mr. Belo but also for the whole Wilcon Depot team, which is dedicated to the principles of excellence, integrity, and service. The occasion will be recognized as an iconic event and a source of inspiration for future generations of students and corporate executives.
To know about the products of Wilcon, visit shop.wilcon.com.ph or visit www.wilcon.com.ph for more information. You may also check their media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and connect with them on Viber Community, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Or you may contact Wilcon Depot branches nationwide at 88-WILCON (88-945266) for more inquiries.
