Judy Araneta Roxas, mother of former senator and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary Mar Roxas, peacefully passed away on August 26, 2025, at the age of 91. The sad news was announced by Mar Roxas himself through a heartfelt post on social media late Tuesday evening.
In his post, Mar Roxas shared, “We are very sad to share that our mother Judy Araneta Roxas passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by family and loved ones. Please include her in your prayers. Wake details to follow.” While he did not disclose the cause of her passing, he mentioned that she spent her last moments with close family members.
The Matriarch of the Roxas Family
Judy Araneta Roxas was the widow of the late Senator Gerry Roxas, a prominent figure in Philippine politics. The couple had three children together: Maria Lourdes, Gerardo Jr., and Mar Roxas. Judy’s role as the matriarch of the influential Roxas family has been widely recognized both within and outside political circles.
Known for her strength, grace, and dedication to her family, Judy has long been a respected figure in the country’s social and philanthropic sectors. She was widely admired for her commitment to various charitable causes and her leadership in numerous foundations.
Philanthropic Leadership and Legacy
Beyond her role as a devoted mother and wife, Judy Araneta Roxas served as the president of both the J. Amado Araneta Foundation and the Gerry Roxas Foundation. These organizations focus on providing support and opportunities to marginalized communities across the Philippines.
Her leadership extended to the business sector as well, where she held the position of vice-chairperson of the Araneta Group Management and Araneta Centre Corporation. Under her guidance, these organizations have contributed to the development of key infrastructures and cultural landmarks in the country.
Judy’s dedication to service and her quiet yet impactful influence made her an integral part of the Roxas family legacy—a legacy marked by public service, philanthropy, and leadership.
A Life of Service and Family
Judy Araneta Roxas’s life was a testament to the values of service, family, and humility. As the wife of Senator Gerry Roxas, she stood by him through his political career and helped nurture the next generation of public servants, including their son Mar Roxas.
Mar Roxas himself has had a distinguished career in public service, serving as a senator, DILG secretary, and a presidential candidate. Throughout his journey, he has often credited his family, especially his mother, for their unwavering support and guidance.
Public Reaction and Tributes
News of Judy’s passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences from various sectors—politicians, celebrities, and ordinary citizens alike have expressed their sympathies and remembered her as a woman of kindness and dignity.
Korina Sanchez, a well-known broadcast journalist and wife of Mar Roxas, shared her heartfelt sentiments about the family’s loss, acknowledging the tremendous contributions of both Judy and her husband Gerry Roxas to the nation.
Social media platforms were flooded with messages of prayers and remembrance, with many highlighting Judy’s quiet strength and her role in shaping the Roxas family’s enduring presence in Philippine society.
What Lies Ahead
Wake and funeral arrangements have yet to be announced, but it is expected that the ceremonies will be private, in accordance with the wishes of the family. The Roxas family remains grateful for the prayers and support extended by the public during this difficult time.
As the family mourns the loss of their beloved matriarch, Judy Araneta Roxas’s legacy continues through the foundations she led and the family she helped nurture—one that continues to serve the Filipino people.
Who Was Judy Araneta Roxas?
Wife of Former Senator Gerry Roxas: Judy stood by her late husband’s side, contributing quietly but significantly to the political landscape.
Mother of Three Children: Maria Lourdes, Gerardo Jr., and Mar Roxas, all of whom have made their marks in various fields.
President of J. Amado Araneta Foundation and Gerry Roxas Foundation: Committed to social development and charity.
Vice-Chairperson of Araneta Group Management and Araneta Centre Corporation: Played a key role in the management of one of the Philippines’ most iconic business groups.
Judy Araneta Roxas’s passing marks the end of an era for the Roxas family and the wider community that benefited from her kindness and leadership. She leaves behind a legacy defined by love, service, and commitment to the Filipino people.
