Former PBA team owner Alberto ‘Bert’ Lina: Businessman, Sports Patron, Dies at 76

Alberto “Bert” Lina, a well-known Filipino entrepreneur, sportsman, and ex-Bureau of Customs commissioner passed away at the age of 76. OneLGC, his company, posted news of his death on Tuesday, though the reasons behind his passing have yet to be revealed.

A funeral mass and interment will take place on Thursday, February 27, at 2:30 p.m. in the vicinity of St. James the Great Parish in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City. The family will also be holding daily Novena Masses starting on February 28. Many will remember Lina’s legacy as a businessman, sports benefactor, and public servant. 

The Career of Bert Lina

Lina was a familiar name in the Philippine sports scene, especially basketball. He had numerous teams in the Philippine Basketball Association under his name, such as FedEx, Air 21, Burger King, and Shopinas. Apart from basketball, he was involved in other sports, such as cycling and golf.

His dedication to sports was paralleled by his support of the arts. He initiated support through the Manila Symphony Orchestra and the Philippine theater community. For this, he received the Papal Award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice from the Archdiocese of Manila in recognition of his service.

Public service was another facet of Lina’s career. He had served as Bureau of Customs commissioner twice before; first, during President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term in 2005, then again during the Aquino Administration from 2015 to 2016.  Airfrght 2100 (Air21) was one of the most successful courier service companies he built.

Who is Alberto ‘Bert’

Alberto “Bert” Lina was a Filipino businessman and a major player in the sporting industry in the Philippines, owning several teams in the Philippine Basketball Association such as FedEx, Air21, Burger King, and Shopinas. He was also a sponsor for other sports such as cycling and golf.

Outside sports, Lina served as the commissioner of the Bureau of Customs twice, and he was one, among others, whose contributions helped in developing the Manila Symphony Orchestra.