Vivian Que-Azcona Death and Obituary – Vivian Que-Azcona, the president of Mercury Drug Corporation and one of the wealthiest Filipinos, has passed away at the age of 69. Her death was confirmed by the University of Sto. Tomas’ (UST) student publication, The Varsitarian, on April 5, 2025. The cause of her passing remains undisclosed, leaving the public and the business community in shock.
Vivian Que-Azcona was a highly respected figure in the Philippine business landscape, primarily known for her leadership of Mercury Drug Corporation, the country’s premier pharmacy retailer. Under her stewardship, Mercury Drug became synonymous with pharmaceutical retail, expanding its reach nationwide and solidifying its status as a trusted brand among Filipinos. The company, which was founded by her father, Mariano Que, in 1945, has grown into an essential part of daily life in the Philippines, providing a wide array of medicines, health products, and services to millions.
Que-Azcona took the helm of the company after the death of her father, carrying forward his vision while also modernizing its operations. She was instrumental in expanding Mercury Drug’s footprint across the nation, overseeing the opening of hundreds of branches in urban and rural areas alike. Under her leadership, the company not only provided employment opportunities but also contributed significantly to the accessibility of affordable healthcare and medicines in the Philippines.
By 2024, Vivian Que-Azcona had amassed a significant fortune, with a net worth estimated at $1.7 billion, according to Forbes and other financial publications. This placed her among the wealthiest individuals in the country. Despite her wealth, Que-Azcona remained a low-profile figure, focusing on her work and contributing to the growth of the family business rather than seeking the limelight. Her success in the business world was built on a combination of hard work, innovation, and dedication to her father’s legacy.
Mercury Drug’s success under her leadership has had far-reaching implications in the pharmaceutical industry and the Filipino economy. The company not only introduced various pharmacy-based services, such as online ordering and home delivery, but also supported local communities through its corporate social responsibility programs. These initiatives included health education, disease prevention, and disaster relief efforts, all of which left a lasting impact on the lives of many Filipinos.
Vivian Que-Azcona was an alumna of the University of Sto. Tomas, the Philippines’ oldest university, where she completed her education before joining the family business. Her ties to the institution remained strong, and her passing has left many in the UST community mourning the loss of a distinguished alumna. She was known for her quiet generosity and her commitment to family, often focusing on her professional duties rather than seeking media attention.
News of Que-Azcona’s death has drawn an outpouring of tributes from various sectors of Philippine society, including business leaders, employees of Mercury Drug, and members of the public who have benefited from the company’s services. Many have praised her for her strong leadership, business acumen, and philanthropic efforts. While her passing leaves a significant void in the industry, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Filipino entrepreneurs and business leaders.
In conclusion, Vivian Que-Azcona’s death marks the end of an era for Mercury Drug Corporation and the Philippine business community. Her contributions to the pharmaceutical retail industry and her philanthropic work have left an indelible mark on the country. As the Philippines mourns her loss, it is clear that her impact will be remembered for years to come.
