Logistics tycoon and former Customs commissioner Alberto “Bert” Lina died at 76.
Lina, who described himself as a “kargador” (porter), built a logistics and waste management empire. He was also an avid sports and arts patron.
A funeral mass and inurnment will be held Feb. 27, 2025, at St. James the Great Parish in Ayala Alabang Village, Muntinlupa City, the Lina Group of Companies said. The group said it would honor Lina’s memory by continuing his vision of excellence in service and commitment to national development.
Lucia Jane Lina will succeed him as chairperson of Linaheim Corporate Services Inc., Ube Express Inc., Ekonek Pilipinas Inc., Dynamic Outsource Solutions Inc., Susumi Philippines Logistics Inc. and Linaheim Corporate Travel and Tours.
Sylvia Lina will remain chairperson of GO21. April Rose Lina-Arboleda will be chairperson of Academy of Development Logistics, and Donna May Lina will be chairperson of Ube Media Inc.
Lina served as Customs commissioner from Feb. 4 to July 8, 2005, and from April 23, 2015, to June 30, 2016. Lina founded courier Airfreight 2100 and was the owner of the Air21 and Barako Bull basketball teams.
