Teresita Sy-Coson

Teresita Sy‑Coson (born October 1950 in Plaridel, Bulacan, Philippines) is a prominent business leader, author, and philanthropist. She serves as Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation and as Chairwoman of BDO Unibank, the Philippines’ largest bank. As the eldest child of retail magnate Henry Sy, she joined the family enterprise at 22 to help open the first SM department store under Martial Law Esquiremag.ph+15+15+15.

Under her leadership, Sy‑Coson has overseen key mergers and expansions in banking, retail, property, and investments throughout the SM Group. She has held board positions across affiliated companies and represented the Philippines in the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, earning numerous accolades—such as Asia’s Best CEO and multiple rankings among the most powerful women in business +2+2QuoteTab+2.

Sy‑Coson is known for her candid reflections on gender equality, hard work, and leadership. Among her notable quotes:

“I was just born into a business family. It is really a destiny.” AllGreatQuotes+5+5Câu Nói Nổi Tiếng Thông Minh+5

“We grew up in a very demanding environment. Dad expects us to prove ourselves… so my siblings and I worked hard to reach what we have today, and I guess we have to continue working hard to maintain it.” +6Esquiremag.ph+6+6

“For the men, they are more of a risk taker, and for the women, they are more nurturing and more details. So the combination of the men and women is very good for business.” BrainyQuote+5+5+5

These statements capture her values of perseverance, equality, and strategic balance—highlighting the principles that define Teresita Sy‑Coson’s leadership and vision.