At Cold Storage Seafood, Father’s Day is more than just a celebration — it’s a tribute to the values that built the company.
For company president Marco Qua, it’s deeply personal, especially after his father, Mariano Qua, handed him the torch.
“We feel strongly about honoring our first protector, provider, and role model: Fathers,” says Marco.
“For us, our dad has always been that steady hand guiding us through life and business. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the values he instilled in us — discipline, integrity, and putting family first. Even today, we still ask for his advice. As much as we try to grow, we always come back to what he taught us. The grass can never beat the roots.”
“He reminded us to work hard, stay curious about what’s happening beyond our shores, always check your numbers, and most of all, protect your name — guard your reputation. That’s our dad. That’s the foundation he built for us.”
While Father’s Day may be over, Cold Storage continues to honor not just the men who provide, but those who lead with quiet strength and lasting values.
The Heart of a City, The Heart of a Father
For San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, fatherhood and public service are not separate callings — they are one and the same.
“The way I take care of my family is the same way I take care of my city,” he says. “If you can raise your children with love, discipline, and values, then that’s the same care and commitment you bring to public service.”
Sunday lunches are sacred, no matter how busy things get. “That’s non-negotiable,” he says. “It’s the one time we all sit down, eat together, and catch up.”
Even during the election season, he flew to New York for his daughter’s graduation and returned in time for his youngest son’s moving-up ceremony.
He lives by his father’s lesson: “Never do anything that will destroy your name or your family.”
It’s a principle that shapes how he leads and lives — and what he hopes to pass on.
His wife, a breast cancer survivor, founded the Caring Keri Foundation — a reflection of their shared values.
“To all the dads out there — whatever roles we play, let’s never forget the importance of being a father,” he says. “Every family is different. Every father faces different challenges, but we all have the same job: do our best to keep our families together and strong.”
A Father’s Time, in Big and Small Moments
Ernie Lopez, President of Creative Programs Inc. of ABS-CBN, understands how quickly children grow. His eldest is now 24, his twin girls are 20. Though they now live abroad, the bond they built through years of shared adventures remains strong.
“I took them to school every day, until they asked me not to,” he recalls with a laugh. “They tried wakeboarding, rock climbing, mountain climbing, triathlon, scuba diving, biking, and skateboarding.”
Now, every visit and vacation is cherished. But what defines good fatherhood?
“A father’s opinion of his children carries much weight,” he says. “It is very important for a father to have a good opinion of his kids and to verbalize it.”
Encouragement, listening, and spiritual grounding guide him. “I can’t raise my kids without guidance and wisdom from my heavenly Father.”
Family on the Road and at Home
For Benedicto Coyiuto, head of Audi and Bentley for PGA Cars, the most important part of fatherhood is simply being there — even with a demanding schedule.
“Even as I manage several businesses, I make it a point to always be around my kids — in school activities, basketball games, or just spending time together at home,” he shares. “I take them around with me as much as possible, and we regularly travel together. It’s not always easy, but I do my best to be there.”
His parenting philosophy centers on balance: “I see my role as being supportive, giving them space to grow, and being someone they can rely on.”
What makes him proud? “I’m most proud when I see them handling things on their own — making smart choices, starting their own projects, doing well in school and sports. Seeing them grow into their own person makes me feel we’re doing the right things. It’s the moments you realize they’ve picked up something valuable along the way that stand out the most.”
He adds, “A good father gives structure without being too rigid. You need to listen, be patient, and set a good example. Let your kids be themselves and support them without trying to control every outcome. I also think kids appreciate honesty. You can’t be perfect, but being real with them and always showing up makes a big difference.”
At Cold Storage, Family Comes First
For Morris Qua, vice president of Cold Storage Seafood, the connection between family and business is not just symbolic — it’s foundational.
“Cold Storage has been a family-run business for generations,” he says. “When I was new to the company, my decisions were a bit hasty and rushed. Now, I am more mindful and focused on the company’s long-term plans, with the goal of passing the business on to the next generation.”
He credits his father — his greatest mentor — for shaping this perspective. “He taught us the importance of being responsible and accountable for everything that happens in the company. That’s something we uphold to this day.”
These lessons now shape how he raises his own children. “I try to teach them to own up to their mistakes.”
Food remains central to their family traditions. “Whenever we have steamed whole fish, my mom always makes sure everyone is home for dinner before she cooks it.”
“Even if my dad came home late from the office, he’d ask us to wait for him. Dinner was when we shared stories about our day. He would talk about the daily challenges in the company. My brother and I didn’t fully understand back then, but those conversations helped us become more mature in managing the business today.”
