Fred Smith: Transforming Subic into FedEx's global hub

Just received very sad news and confirmation—Fred Smith, visionary founder of FedEx, has passed away from a heart attack. So very sad.

- BY FORMER SENATOR RICHARD GORDON Chairman, Philippine Red Cross

Meeting him, working with him, and bringing FedEx to Subic—transforming it into FedEx’s global hub—remains one of the happiest and most meaningful chapters of my life.

I remember the first time I met him when he came to Subic. I personally drove him around in my car. He was struck by the thousands of volunteers who had taken on the challenge of securing and reviving the area after the U.S. Navy's departure.

When we reached the airport, he asked me two questions: “Is China seeking hegemony in this region?” and “Can you rebuild the runway in one year?”

I stepped out of the car with him and introduced him to Felix Visey, a passionate volunteer and former CUBI Naval Air Station worker. I let Fred speak to him directly. After their conversation, Fred came back to me energized and simply said, “When and where do I sign on the dotted line?”