Elon Ting’s journey as a foundational figure in the Philippine paper industry began in 1987 when he co-founded Trust International Paper Corporation in Mabalacat, Philippines. To establish the business, he built a paper mill, installed a used paper machine he had purchased from Canada, and constructed a power plant to supply the mill. The power plant also provided electricity for the local community, and Elon built essential infrastructure around the mill, including a school, a hospital, a grocery store, and other support businesses, which significantly benefited his employees. As Jim Fitch, MBA ’64, observed, “Elon has done a lot of good for a lot of people.”
Elon served as TIPCO’s chairman and CEO for decades, overseeing the organization’s growth to become the largest paper manufacturer in the Philippines by 2014, with international markets including Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, mainland China, Thailand, Malaysia, India, and Hawaii in the United States. In 2008, his daughter Mayleen, MBA ’04, took over the management of TIPCO, continuing the family’s legacy. Today, TIPCO produces newsprint, printing, and writing paper that is environmentally friendly and made with 100% recycled raw materials. TIPCO earned a Gold Rating from the Philippine government’s Department of Environment and Natural Resources for its environmental efforts, which are complemented by various employee-led initiatives like tree planting, river clean-ups, and community support programs.
Recently, Elon has expanded his commitment to environmental preservation to the renewable energy sector. Tigon Power Corporation, where Elon serves as chairman, partnered with the Samal Solar Renewable Energy Corporation to build a solar farm in Bataan, Philippines. The solar farm provides a source of clean and reliable energy, helps reduce carbon emissions, and contributes to the Philippines’ national goal of increasing its renewable energy share. It also creates local jobs and stimulates economic development in the local community. From paper to power, Elon’s legacy continues to evolve as he now helps build a sustainable future for the Philippines through renewable energy and community development.
