By Sebastian C. Quiniones Jr., Executive Director, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc.
CAB once wrote a book titled “I Have a Story to Tell.” I believe that everyone whose life has intersected with his can say the same. I am one of them, and I am honored to share my own story of the man who shaped not only institutions, but also the character and purpose of the people who worked with him.
I had the privilege of serving as the seventh Executive Director of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc., the organization he founded on August 19, 1982. CAB was our Founding Chairman, and he remained a hands-on leader until he was called to the Lord.
A Sharp Mind and a Front-Row Seat to History
CAB possessed a fantastic memory. He could effortlessly recall crude prices, foreign exchange levels, and key figures from the 1950s through the 1990s. More than that, he remembered the events surrounding those moments, often because he was right there in the middle of shaping the future.
He narrated stories with clarity, honesty, and a gift for seeing both the people and the issues with depth. What amazed me most was his humility. He never overstated his contributions, even though the results of his actions spoke volumes. He got things moving, followed through with a steady hand, and nudged until things were done.
In the years our lives intersected, I saw firsthand how he made his mark on the Shell Companies in the Philippines, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc., and Malampaya. Others will speak of the many more areas he shaped, but these were where I witnessed his leadership up close.
A Leader With Heart and Conviction
Our weekly WhatsApp and Viber exchanges became a rhythm I will deeply miss. Often these were followed by quick conversations to clarify subtle details that “cannot be written.” These moments revealed who he was at his core.
CAB was passionate about helping others and using every resource available to create sustainable change. He demanded excellence, encouraged focused action, and never allowed anyone to get lost in unnecessary details. Some would say he was a tough boss. To me, he was a principled one. He combined firmness with empathy and maintained an unwavering sense of what was right. He was always on the right side.
I thank the Lord for the seven years I had the privilege of working with him in PSFI and Malampaya. These years will remain precious to me. They were years of learning, challenge, growth, and the quiet but lasting influence of a leader who lived his purpose fully.
As we honor his life, I hold on to one promise that I now share with the entire PSFI family.
CAB, we will do things safe and do things right always. And we will continue to teach folks to fish. The service to others continues.
