Alberto “Bert” D. Lina, a businessman, former customs commissioner, and a driving force behind the transformation of the Philippine logistics industry, has passed away at the age of 76. The Lina Group of Companies confirmed his death but did not disclose the exact date.
Lina’s legacy spans decades of service in both business and government. From humble beginnings, selling sweet pineapples as a child to help support his mother, Lina built a vast business empire. As a certified public accountant, he initially worked in the freight forwarding industry before founding Airfreight 2100 Inc. in 1979, following a significant career setback. Dismissed from his job at the time, Lina embraced the incident as the beginning of a new chapter, and soon after, his company became a leading name in the logistics sector.
Lina’s impact extended beyond business. He led the Bureau of Customs twice, first under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2005, and again in 2015 under President Benigno Aquino III, serving until 2016. His tenure was marked by a commitment to improving the nation’s customs processes and contributing to the nation’s economic progress.
Lina’s leadership style was notably hands-on, creating an inclusive corporate culture where employees felt valued and empowered. “His leadership style was uniquely personal—managing by walking around, greeting employees daily with boundless energy, and believing in everyone’s potential,” said OneLGC.
A passionate sports supporter, Lina was deeply involved in Philippine sports, particularly basketball, cycling, and golf. His patronage also extended to the arts, including his support for the Manila Symphony Orchestra and the Philippine theater community.
In addition to his business and public service accomplishments, Lina was a dedicated mentor, with a commitment to service and compassion that left a lasting impact on those around him.
Lina will be succeeded by his daughter, Lucia Jane ‘Sheila’ Lina, who will serve as chairperson of various Lina Group companies, including Linaheim Corporate Services Inc. and Ube Express Inc. Other family members, including Sylvia P. Lina and April Rose Lina-Arboleda, will continue to lead the Group’s other entities.
The Lina Group of Companies expressed its gratitude for his guidance and vision. “We are forever grateful to our Lord Jesus Christ for blessing us with such an extraordinary leader and mentor,” the company said in a statement.
A funeral mass and inurnment will be held on Thursday, 27 February, at St. James the Great Parish, Ayala Alabang Village, Muntinlupa, with a series of Novena Masses starting 28 February. In lieu of flowers, contributions are encouraged to support causes Lina championed throughout his life.
