As he turns 80 years old in 2026, the business titan is finally embracing something new—new knees, that is.
An insider said the tycoon is undergoing the procedure in Singapore, but has long been advised by his medical team at Makati Medical Center, one of the hospitals under the Metro Pacific group umbrella that he controls alongside some of the country’s biggest utilities like Meralco, PLDT and Maynilad.
Back home, his companies are rallying the troops. PLDT and SMART are holding a special mass in the office for his “speedy and complete” recovery from this long-planned procedure.
Meralco also released a company-wide announcement calling for prayers and a smooth and safe operation.
Pangilinan’s group, backed by the Salims of Indonesia, has dominated a major swathe of the Philippine corporate scene since his takeover of PLDT in 1998.
He maintains a tight grip on the business empire with chair and CEO roles at PLDT, Meralco and Metro Pacific.
Despite his age, Pangilinan regularly plays badminton, so his Philippine national team–level opponents can expect better movement and pace.
Off the court, his knee problems are more apparent.
Members of the press who regularly cover Pangilinan have noticed a limp and more careful gait.
That makes him easy to accost for interviews, which he readily accommodates, but media peers can now anticipate a speedier MVP once he’s back in action.
Who runs the empire while Pangilinan recovers? If you know, you know because there’s only one MVP.
“He is still reachable on matters that warrant his attention on any issue. In fact, I’m absolutely sure he will want to be working,” the insider said.
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
