Alfredo Yao

Alfredo Yao is a prominent Filipino businessman and entrepreneur, best known for founding Zest-O Corporation, a leading beverage company in the Philippines. Born in Manila on November 23, 1943, Yao faced adversity early in life, losing his father at the age of 12. Despite financial challenges, he pursued an education while supporting his family by selling homemade juices in his neighborhood.

Yao's entrepreneurial journey began in earnest in the 1980s when he identified a gap in the Philippine beverage market. At the time, ready-to-drink juices were predominantly sold in glass bottles, which were expensive and logistically challenging. Yao introduced the first locally produced juice drink in doy packs, a flexible and more affordable packaging option. This innovation revolutionized the Philippine beverage industry and led to the establishment of Zest-O Corporation in 1981.

Under Yao's leadership, Zest-O Corporation expanded its product line to include a variety of beverages and snacks, becoming a household name in the Philippines. Yao's business acumen and innovative strategies have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Philippines in 2005.

In addition to Zest-O Corporation, Alfredo Yao has ventured into other industries, including banking, real estate, and aviation. He founded Zest Airways, later rebranded as AirAsia Zest, by partnering with AirAsia, a leading low-cost airline in Asia. Yao's investments in real estate have also contributed to his status as one of the Philippines' leading businessmen.

Yao's philanthropic efforts are notable as well. He has established scholarships and educational programs to support underprivileged youth in the Philippines, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community that has been instrumental in his success.