Former customs commissioner Alberto Lina passes away at 76

Alberto “Bert” Lina, a businessman and former Bureau of Customs commissioner, has passed away at the age of 76.

On Tuesday, the Lina Group of Companies announced the passing of its founding chairman, honoring him as a visionary entrepreneur who played a significant role in transforming the Philippine logistics industry.

Lina was widely recognized for his leadership in logistics, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s business and trade sector.

His contributions extended to public service, having served twice as Commissioner of the Bureau of Customs (2005 and 2015–2016), where he played a key role in advancing trade facilitation and customs modernization.

His family has announced that a memorial Mass will be held on 27 February at the Parish of St. James the Great in Ayala Alabang Village.

In lieu of flowers, they have requested donations be made to Guiding Light Ministries of Aklan Inc. and the Philippine Red Cross.

The family has not disclosed the cause of death and has requested privacy during this time.