AMID persistent rumors and reports—particularly from business circles—suggesting he could be a possible leader capable of steering the nation out of corruption, San Miguel Corp. President and CEO Ramon S. Ang firmly rejected any idea of entering politics.
In a social media post, Ang, widely known as RSA, declared that he intends only to remain “a dependable partner in building our country, nothing more.”
He addressed the speculation directly: “I have been getting many messages today, and I also saw the story that has been circulating. Let me put things to rest: I am not entering politics.” Ang also currently heads the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), operator of the NAIA Terminals since their privatization over a year ago.
His comments followed reports positioning him as the best choice to lead the country should a civilian-military junta arise, a sentiment said to have stemmed from public frustration over the massive flood control corruption scandal, described as the biggest in Philippine history.
In the same post, Ang also expressed gratitude for those who reached out and urged everyone to “continue working together for the good of our nation.”
Known for his philanthropy, he said most people recognize him as someone who works quietly—building projects, fixing what he can, and supporting government and communities.
“That is where I believe I can contribute the most, and that is where I intend to stay,” he said, dispelling assumptions that he may be open to leading the country in any capacity.
“Our country is facing many challenges, and it is understandable that people want things resolved quickly. But moving forward will never depend on one individual. It will take government, private sector, and the public all moving in the same direction. My focus is to support that effort,” Ang said.
It can be recalled that in the midst of the flood control scandal, Ang gave fresh hope to the scandalized nation by offering to help solve the flooding problem at no cost to the government.
Notably, he even joked that if and when he does so, some politicians will lose ‘potential income,’ in apparent reference to kickbacks that result from flood control projects. It was a joke but we all know that it is true.
The fact that he managed to dish out such an attack on corrupt politicians without batting an eyelash is something I admire about him. He is not afraid of them and would speak his mind out, regardless of who gets hurt.
Note that when he said that, RSA was in the presence of mayors, none of whom was able to counter what he said.
While it is understandable that Ang would not allow himself to be complicit in any illegal act, such as overthrowing the government, the possibility of destiny steering him toward national leadership remains a point of reflection.
History has shown and I do believe that some leaders—including the late Cory Aquino, her son Noynoy Aquino, and former President Rodrigo Duterte—initially rejected the presidency before eventually yielding to public demand.
No matter how you fight it, if it is meant to happen, it will happen.
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