Teresita Sy-Coson

Net Worth

$1.575B

-0.95% (24h)

Teresita Sy-Coson, born in October 1950, is a prominent Filipina businesswoman with a net worth of $1.6 billion as of 2024. She is a key figure in the SM Group, a diversified conglomerate. Her career has been marked by significant achievements, including leading SM Investments Corporation (SMIC), one of the largest publicly-traded holding companies in the Philippines, as Vice Chairwoman, and serving as Chairwoman of BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO), the country's largest bank. Her source of wealth is diversified across retail, banking, property, and portfolio investments. Her influence extends beyond her corporate roles, as she is involved in various philanthropic initiatives through the SM Foundation. Her commitment to Philippine economic progress and her strategic leadership have made her a highly respected figure in the business world.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Teresita Tan Sy-Coson was born in October 1950, the eldest child of Henry Sy, the founder of SM Investments Corporation, and Felicidad Tan. Growing up in a business-oriented family, she developed a strong business acumen from a young age. Her father and maternal grandfather owned shoe stores, instilling an early interest in the retail industry. In 1970, she graduated from Assumption College in Manila with a degree in commerce. She started working in her father's Shoemart store shortly after graduation, forgoing her plans to pursue a master's degree, at her father's encouragement.

Rise to Success

Teresita's career began in the retail sector, launching her father's first department store at the age of 22 in 1972. She helped launch the first SM shopping mall, SM City North EDSA, in 1985. In 1990, she became president of SM Department Stores, which grew from 10 stores to 144 stores with sales of $2.4 billion by 2011, under her guidance. Sy-Coson's leadership has been instrumental in the growth of SM Investments Corporation, a major player in retail, banking, and property development. She has also served as the chairwoman of BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO), the largest bank in the Philippines.

Key Business Strategies

Teresita Sy-Coson's strategies have been centered on diversification and strategic growth. A key move was the acquisition of Equitable Bank, which was later merged into BDO Unibank. She has been at the forefront of SM's expansion into malls, retail, banking, and property. Her strategic vision has been recognized with awards and accolades, including Asia's Best CEO award. Her leadership style is characterized by high standards, attention to detail, and a strategic viewpoint.

Philanthropy

Teresita Sy-Coson spearheads the SM Group's philanthropic initiatives through the SM Foundation, which was established in 1983. The foundation focuses on education, healthcare, and community development. The SM Foundation's School Building Program has funded the construction of over 100 schools. She is also a member of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), assisting President Marcos in achieving national economic objectives.

Career Timeline

2007

Chairwoman of BDO Unibank

Assumed chairmanship of BDO Unibank.

1990

President of SM Department Stores

Became president of the SM Department Stores unit.

1985

Launched SM North EDSA

Helped launch the first SM shopping mall.

1972

Launched First Department Store

Launched the first department store for her father's company.

Philanthropic Impact

Education, Healthcare, Community DevelopmentUndisclosed

SM Foundation

Supports communities through education, healthcare, and community development initiatives. The SM Foundation has funded the construction of more than 100 schools.