LEGACY – a word that resonates deeply with the human experience, encapsulating the essence of the impact we leave behind and the memories that endure long after we are gone. In the memorial care industry, one name stands tall as a pioneer, etching its mark in the Philippine memorial landscape – Eternal Gardens. With a 47-year track record, Eternal Gardens has remained steadfast in its commitment to building lasting legacies, providing solace to grieving families, empowering communities, and transforming the pre-need mindset of the Filipino people.
The foundation of Eternal Gardens in 1976 can be attributed to the visionary spirit of its founder, Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua. In an era when the concept of purchasing memorial lots in advance was met with skepticism, Ambassador Cabangon Chua fearlessly envisioned and established first-class memorial parks in key provinces. On August 11, 1976, the first Eternal Gardens memorial park was unveiled in Baesa, Caloocan City, marking the inception of a transformative journey that would redefine the memorial care landscape in the Philippines.
Fueled by Ambassador Cabangon Chua’s vision, Eternal Gardens embarked on an extraordinary expansion journey, bringing its exceptional services to various locations across the country. The Dagupan branch was established in 1983, followed by Biñan in 1984, Balagtas, Batangas City in 1986. Throughout the years, the company’s reach extended to include Lipa City in 1992, Naga City in 2000, Cabanatuan City in 2004, Santa Rosa City in 2008, and Concepcion, Batangas City in 2013. The growth continued with the addition of Greenhills Park, Cagayan de Oro City, as the 10th park in 2014, and the unveiling of the 11th park in Cabuyao City, Laguna, in 2019. This remarkable trajectory stands as a testament to Eternal Gardens’ unwavering commitment to serving communities across the Philippines.
Eternal Gardens continues to redefine the memorial care landscape in the Philippines through its dedication to building lasting legacies, expanding its footprints, and fostering innovations. The company’s newest park in Opol, Misamis Oriental, exemplifies its profound commitment to providing quality memorial services to families in the region, creating a haven that preserves cherished memories. Moreover, the company is set to open another park in Naga City, particularly in Brgy. Pacol, and one in Calamba City. As the company expands its branches and parks across the country, it remains at the forefront of embracing innovations and advancements to enhance the memorial experience it renders.
The growth and evolution of Eternal Gardens have been truly remarkable, expanding from its roots in offering memorial parks to now providing comprehensive services along with its sister companies, including mortuary, chapels, and cremation, thus completing the circle of memorial care for the Filipino people.
Eternal Gardens takes immense pride in its contribution to shaping the current memorial pre-need mindset in Philippine society. In a culture where planning for one’s memorial needs was once unpopular and avoided, Eternal Gardens dared to change the narrative. By offering the opportunity to secure memorial lots ahead of time, the company empowered families to take control of their future, ensuring peace of mind and relieving the burden from their loved ones. Today, over 90% of Eternal Gardens’ clients have chosen to purchase their properties in advance, a testament to the trust and confidence they place in the company’s legacy-building endeavors.
Beyond the families it serves, Eternal Gardens has fostered a strong bond with its employees, who have become an integral part of the Eternal Gardens family. Moreover, as Eternal Gardens branches become part of local communities, the company actively participates in various initiatives that uplift and enrich these areas. By supporting charitable causes, environmental sustainability, and community development, Eternal Gardens leaves an indelible mark on the cities it becomes a part of, ensuring a lasting legacy for generations to come.
At present, Eternal Gardens is led by Chairman and CEO D. Edgard A. Cabangon, honed through the training from his father, Amb. Cabangon Chua. Edgard’s journey alongside his father in managing the company began when he was in college. He remains committed to preserving his father’s legacy and ensuring the company’s continued success.
The journey ahead for Eternal Gardens is one of promise and dedication, as the company continues to shape the memorial care industry and build legacies that stand the test of time. Approaching its golden year, its commitment to the Filipino people remains as strong as ever – to soar, grow, and expand even further, carrying forward the vision of its founder, Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua.
The story of Eternal Gardens is not merely about memorial parks; it is a celebration of lives lived, memories cherished, and legacies that will eternally endure.