Manuel Cojuangco knighted @ Sofitel
French Ambassador Thierry Mathou and Manuel Murphy Cojuangco
MANILA, Philippines — Jewelmer Group chairman Manuel Murphy Cojuangco was conferred the Chevalier dans l’Ordre National de la Légion d’ Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honor) by the president of the Republic of France through Ambassador Thierry Mathou last July 27 at the Grand Sunset Pavilion, Sofitel Philippine Plaza.
The Legion of Honor, the highest distinction awarded by the French Government, is awarded to individuals who have served France or the ideals it upholds. Moreover, a minimum of 25 years of professional activity with “eminent merits” is required to be considered to become a Chevalier or Knight.
“We have decided to give you this award because in all your endeavors you have this objective to give back to your community, to your nation, to your country,” said Ambassador Mathou to Cojuangco during the awarding ceremony.
“Take for example Jewelmer, a successful business where you are the leader of the gold pearl not only in the Philippines but in the world. And together with fellow legionnaire Jacques Branellec, you have created a foundation not only to preserve the environment but to support local and indigenous people’s communities.”
On Cojuangco’s partnership with French perliculturist and fellow Chevalier recipient Branellec, the Ambassador said “I am very proud to give you this distinction because it is the symbolism of the friendship between France and the Philippines.”
Since it was first established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, there have been 18 other Filipinos who have been inducted into the l’Ordre National de la Légion d’ Honneur. Cojuangco is the 19th to follow in this proud tradition (Among the seven women is our very own Grace Glory Go who was the 5th Filipina knighted in 2006).
Jewelmer is an international luxury brand that was born out of a commitment to the world’s most lustrous cultured South Sea pearls and exquisite fine jewellery. Established in 1979 by Jacques Branellec and Manuel Cojuangco, Jewelmer has grown globally to represent a world of rarity and enduring elegance. - Photos by JOEY VIDUYA
