Dr. Andrew L. Tan is the Chairman of Alliance Global Group, Inc., overseeing diverse business interests in real estate through Megaworld Corporation, distilled spirits manufacturing through Emperador, Inc., and quick service restaurants through Golden Arches Development Corporation (McDonald’s Philippines). Alliance Global Group employs approximately 40,000 people.
Humble Beginnings and Education
Born in Fujian, China, Tan migrated to Hong Kong at the age of four and later settled in the Philippines at 16, sharing a small apartment in Sta. Cruz, Manila, with three other families. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of the East, excelling in accounting while supporting himself through tutoring and selling watches. After graduating magna cum laude in 1974, he worked his way up from an import assistant to Vice President in a Filipino-Chinese company.
Early Business Ventures
In 1977, Tan entered business by becoming a partner in a wholesale trading firm, importing and selling home appliances. His entrepreneurial breakthrough came in 1979 when he founded Consolidated Distillers Inc. and ventured into liquor production. Despite initial losses, he turned the business around through perseverance.
Building a Real Estate Empire
Recognizing real estate’s potential in 1986, Tan founded Megaworld Corporation in 1989, focusing on luxury condominiums in prime locations. In 1994, he took Megaworld public, marking a significant milestone in his real estate journey.
The 1997 Asian financial crisis posed challenges for Megaworld, cutting revenues in half by 1998. However, Tan adapted by conceptualizing integrated townships, inspired by successful business process outsourcing (BPO) hubs in India. This led to the launch of Eastwood City in 1996, the first cyber park in the Philippines, solidifying the country’s position in the global BPO industry.
Today, Megaworld is the Philippines’ leading township developer, with 28 integrated communities covering 4,800 hectares. It has built 725 residential towers, 72 office buildings, 24 lifestyle malls, and 15 hotels.
Innovation and Expansion
In 2020, Megaworld launched Agile Digital Ventures to drive digital innovation in real estate, food and beverage, retail, and hospitality. The following year, Megaworld listed MREIT, Inc., one of the Philippines’ largest REIT offerings, unlocking capital for expansion.
Commitment to Education and Philanthropy
Tan’s dedication to giving back led to the creation of the Megaworld Foundation in 1997, focusing on education and social development. The foundation supports 1,000 scholars annually across 76 partner schools, with 92% of graduates securing employment within Alliance Global companies.
Beyond education, the foundation supports children, the elderly, people with disabilities, women empowerment, healthcare, disaster relief, and environmental conservation. Over 25 years, it has reached 16 regions in the Philippines and forged nearly 300 partnerships with charitable organizations.
Legacy of Success and Giving
Dr. Andrew L. Tan’s journey from a migrant with humble beginnings to a business mogul is a testament to resilience, innovation, and generosity. His leadership has not only transformed industries but also uplifted countless lives through his commitment to corporate social responsibility.
