Judy Araneta-Roxas, mother of Mar Roxas, dies at 91

Judy Araneta-Roxas, wife of the late senator Gerry Roxas and mother of former Philippine senators Mar Roxas and Dinggoy Roxas, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, at the age of 91.

Her eldest son, former senator Mar Roxas, announced her death in a social media post, expressing sadness and requesting prayers for their mother.

Judy was born on July 31, 1934, and was the eldest child of Ester Araneta and Jesus Amado Araneta, founder of the Araneta Group.

She played a significant role in her sons' political careers, donating substantial funds to Mar Roxas's presidential bid in 2016 and actively campaigning for family members in Capiz.

Judy was also known for her work with the Gerry Roxas Foundation, which supports poor but deserving youth in Capiz, and has awarded numerous leaders through its Gerry Roxas Leadership Awards. She is also the vice chairman of the Araneta Group and president of J. Amado Araneta Foundation, Inc., the social development arm of the company.

In addition to her political contributions, Judy received several honors including the Papal Award by Pope John Paul II in 1987 and was the first recipient of the Benigno S. Aquino Award for Nationalism.