Alice Galang Eduardo was born on March 20, 1965, in Manila, Philippines. As the eldest of four siblings, she developed a strong sense of responsibility early on, influenced by her parents. Her father, Andres Eduardo, was a dentist, and her mother, Elisa Galang, was a certified public accountant. This unique combination of scientific precision and financial acuity would later shape Alice's approach to business.
Educational Foundation
Alice attended St. Scholastica's College in Manila, where she completed her primary and secondary education. She then pursued a degree in management at the University of Santo Tomas, one of the Philippines' oldest and most prestigious universities. It was here that Alice began to cultivate her interest in business, inspired by her mother’s financial expertise and her father’s meticulous nature.
The Birth of Sta. Elena Construction
In 1995, Alice founded Sta. Elena Construction and Development Corporation with a modest initial capital. The company started as a small subcontractor, but Alice's vision was far grander. She named the company after Sta. Elena, the patron saint of builders, reflecting her deep faith and aspirations for the business. By focusing on major infrastructure projects, Sta. Elena quickly grew in reputation and scale.
Breaking Ground in a Male-Dominated Industry
In the 1990s, the construction industry in the Philippines was overwhelmingly male-dominated. Despite the odds, Alice's determination and innovative approach set her apart. One of her first major projects was the SM Mall of Asia, which required groundbreaking techniques and significant resource management. This project alone had an estimated budget of ₱7 billion (approximately $140 million at the time), showcasing her ability to handle large-scale developments.
Pioneering Techniques and Innovations
Under Alice's leadership, Sta. Elena became known for its pioneering construction techniques. One notable project was the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) expansion, completed in 2005. This project, valued at ₱18 billion (approximately $360 million), involved complex engineering feats and was crucial in improving transportation infrastructure in the Philippines.
Financial Growth and Market Influence
By 2010, Sta. Elena Construction had established itself as a major player in the Philippine construction industry. The company reported annual revenues of approximately ₱2.5 billion (around $50 million). This financial success allowed Alice to reinvest in the company, acquiring state-of-the-art equipment and employing top engineering talent, further solidifying their market position.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Alice is also known for her philanthropic efforts. In 2013, she launched the Alice G. Eduardo Foundation, focusing on education, health, and disaster relief. One of the foundation’s significant contributions was the construction of a new pediatric ward at the Philippine General Hospital, a project worth ₱100 million (about $2 million). This ward has since provided critical care to thousands of children.
Recognition and Awards
Alice's contributions to the construction industry and her philanthropic efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, she received the Philippine Businesswoman of the Year award from the Asia CEO Awards, recognizing her exceptional leadership and impact on the industry. Additionally, she was featured in Forbes Asia's list of 50 Power Businesswomen in the same year.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite her demanding career, Alice maintains a close-knit family life. She has three children, all of whom she encourages to pursue their passions with the same drive and dedication she exemplifies. Her siblings, Melanie Eduardo, Patrick Eduardo, and Ferdinand Eduardo, have also joined the family business, each bringing their unique expertise to further Sta. Elena's growth.
Future Prospects and Vision
Looking ahead, Alice plans to expand Sta. Elena’s operations beyond the Philippines. She has expressed interest in entering the Southeast Asian market, particularly in countries like Vietnam and Indonesia, where infrastructure development is booming. With an estimated net worth of $100 million as of 2023, Alice Eduardo continues to be a formidable force in the construction industry.
Conclusion
Alice Eduardo's journey from a modest beginning to leading one of the Philippines' most successful construction companies is a testament to her vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her story is not just about building structures but also about breaking barriers and building a legacy that will inspire future generations.
