Renaissance Woman Zenaida Tantoco Diamond Awardee

For many people, she is considered the keeper of a truly golden legacy—that of a family that has made its name in the field of Philippine luxury retail. Taking a cue from her enterprising parents, Zenaida “Nedy” Tantoco stands at the helm of Rustan’s, a company that has come to represent Filipino innovation, tenacity, and drive for growth and success.

Over the years, even as its interests have diversified over time, Rustan’s remains the name, the store for Filipinos seeking the best that the world can offer from fashion and fragrances, to food and accents for the most well-appointed homes.

Under Tantoco’s current leadership, the family business has grown to include Stores Specialists Inc (SSI) which has brought numerous globally recognised brands to the Philippines including British retailer Marks & Spencer, fashion icon Prada, and a host of others.

But beyond her prowess in the corporate and commercial sectors, Tantoco is also known as a woman of great heart. Prior to her most recent distinction as the Diamond Awardee at the 2017 Philippine Tatler Ball, the magazine has recognised her as Patroness of the Arts and Most Charitable Force at previous balls. Having grown up with a strong love of music and the arts, she quietly yet staunchly supports institutions such as the Cultural Centre of the Philippines and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. Likewise, in her capacity as president of the PhilippineItalian Association, she has helped numerous Filipino musicians share their talents with the world by way of an endowment fund that has enabled them to mount performances both here and abroad.

From the boardroom to the ballroom, Nedy Tantoco is certainly a most admirable woman who has capably carried on her parents’ exalted legacy but has also made her own mark on the nation.

Along with her award, Ms Tantoco will also enjoy a two-night weekend stay at the ShangriLa Resort-Boracay’s famed Villa 13.