On this day, May 26, 1993, former Philippine vice president and ABS-CBN Corporation chairman and CEO Fernando "Nanding" Hofileña Lopez, Sr. died of a heart attack in Iloilo City.

On May 26, 1993, former Philippine vice president and ABS-CBN Corporation chairman and CEO Fernando "Nanding" Hofileña Lopez, Sr. died of a heart attack in Iloilo City, a month after his 89th birthday on April 13, 1993, leaving behind his wife Mariquit Javellana with whom he had six children: Yolanda, Fernando Jr. (Junjie), Alberto (Albertito), Emmanuele, Benito, and Mita. This familial legacy can be seen as a reflection not just of his personal achievements but also of the enduring legacy of the Lopez family in the Philippines' sociopolitical landscape. Fernando Hofileña Lopez was born on April 13, 1904, in Jaro, Iloilo City, to Benito Villanueva Lopez and Presentacion Javelona Hofileña. He was the younger brother of Eugenio Lopez, Sr., demonstrating a familial bond that not only shaped his personal life but also significantly influenced the trajectory of the Lopez family's business and political ambitions. The Lopez family was the richest and most influential family in the province, wielding considerable economic power and social influence.

Lopez's early education laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. He studied high school at Colegio de San Juan de Letran, finishing in 1921, where he likely developed critical thinking and oratory skills that would later serve him well in both the business and political arenas. Following this, he pursued legal studies at the University of Santo Tomas, earning his Bachelor of Laws degree in 1925. After passing the bar examinations, Lopez opted not to engage in private legal practice. Instead, he chose to support his older brother in managing the family business, showcasing his loyalty and commitment to his family's legacy, which played a crucial role in the economic development of their home province and beyond.

On September 26, 1945, with no prior political experience, Lopez was appointed by President Sergio Osmeña as mayor of Iloilo City. His appointment during a time when the country was recovering from the ravages of World War II underscored his capability as a leader amid adversity. In 1947, he leveraged his newfound political exposure to run for senator, successfully winning a seat in the legislature. This position marked a significant turning point in his career, as it offered him a platform to effect change and influence legislation. During his time in the Senate, Lopez distinguished himself not only as a proponent of local interests but also as a visionary leader who sought to modernize various aspects of governance and public policy.

Lopez's contributions to education and society are noteworthy, as he was one of the founders of the University of Iloilo and FEATI University in Manila. These institutions played a key role in educating future leaders of the nation and have left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of the Philippines. The presence of such institutions speaks to Lopez's commitment to empowering the youth and fostering an educated citizenry, which is an essential element in any democracy. Moreover, the Lopez brothers were instrumental in owning and operating significant media outlets, including the Iloilo-Negros Air Express Company—the first Filipino-owned air service—which marked the beginning of an era of aviation services in the Philippines. Their ventures also included the Iloilo Times (El Tiempo), the Manila Chronicle, and ABS-CBN Corporation, underscoring their diverse economic interests and influence in shaping public discourse.

In 1949, Lopez further elevated his political profile by becoming vice president under President Elpidio Quirino while concurrently serving as the secretary of agriculture until December 30, 1953. His dual roles in government not only showcased his versatility and capability but also placed him in a strategic position to influence agricultural policy during a crucial period in the nation’s development. After his term as vice president, Lopez was elected again as senator and re-elected in 1959, solidifying his stature in the political arena. His election to these significant posts illustrated the public's trust in his leadership capabilities and commitment to the nation.

In 1965, Lopez ran for vice president alongside Ferdinand Marcos, winning the election and subsequently being re-elected in 1969. Interestingly, this made him the only vice president to serve two non-consecutive terms, under two different presidents and from both political parties, showcasing his adaptation and resilience amidst shifting political landscapes. His unique position in Philippine politics rendered him a significant player during a turbulent time leading up to the declaration of martial law, which was announced on September 21, 1972. 

With martial law, the Lopez family found themselves out of favor with Marcos. The regime targeted the Lopezes due to their vocal opposition to Marcos’s governance, resulting in severe repercussions, including the abolition of the office of vice president and the confiscation of most of the family’s political and economic assets. This pivotal moment encapsulated the challenges faced by political figures during this era and highlighted the dangers of opposing a seemingly all-powerful regime.

Following the People Power Revolution in February 1986, which successfully ousted Ferdinand Marcos from power, Lopez emerged from a period of exile and political turbulence to reclaim his positions of influence. He became the chairman of FHL Investment Corporation and ABS-CBN Corporation and also served as vice-chairman of First Philippine Holdings Corporation. This transition reflected not only a personal reclamation of power but a broader resettling of the political order in the Philippines, hinting at the resilience of democratic forces. Under his stewardship, ABS-CBN Corporation would expand, becoming one of the leading media companies in the Philippines, serving as a vital platform for information and entertainment that resonated with the Filipino people. 

Fernando Hofileña Lopez's life and career are emblematic of perseverance and a lifelong commitment to public service, reflecting a rich tapestry of political engagement, familial loyalty, and advocacy for education and media freedom. Through his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind, Lopez remains an enduring figure in the annals of Philippine history, inspiring future generations to aspire for excellence in their respective fields. The impact of his work continues to resonate through the institutions he helped establish and the values he championed throughout his life.