Legacy and influence
The Ping-ay family's legacy is rooted in a strong commitment to public service, rural development, and grassroots empowerment across Ilocos Sur and nearby provinces.
At the forefront of this legacy is Hon. Jose R. Ping-ay, whose leadership as Congressman, Vice Mayor, and Cooperative Bank Chair helped institutionalize support for microfinance, small enterprise development, and agricultural cooperatives. He was instrumental in transforming the Sta. Cruz Savings and Development Cooperative (SACDECO) into one of Northern Luzon's most successful cooperatives, and he helped steer NATCCO (National Confederation of Cooperatives) into reaching its first billion pesos in assets during his term as chair. His vision connected the cooperative sector with legislative action and financial innovation.
His wife Victoria Bustillos Ping-ay and sons Waldimar, Ridam, and Jose Jr. continued this legacy at the barangay and municipal levels by serving in various elected positions in Santa Cruz, Ilocos Sur, and Bauang, La Union. They helped facilitate local programs on education, disaster preparedness, youth leadership, and community health.
The family's influence also extends into the engineering and construction sectors through Waldy Construction (owned by Engr. Elizabeth Angelita Ping-ay) contributed to local infrastructure—rural roads, water systems, and public buildings—that directly improved access and mobility in underserved communities. Ayat Production, which supports cultural and civic events. These enterprises helped bridge private innovation and public service delivery, particularly in far-flung areas.
In the military sector, Brigadier General Jesus Jeffrey F. Grapa, son-in-law of Jose R. Ping-ay, adds distinction to the family name through national service in the Philippine Army. His work in logistics, ordnance, and command contributes to the nation's defense readiness and capacity building in military infrastructure.
Meanwhile, members like Veejay Ping-ay and Rosario Ping-ay Reyes have led cooperatives at the board level, notably SACDECO and NORLUCEDEC, ensuring continuity of the family's long-standing cooperative advocacy.
Collectively, the Ping-ay family represents a blend of technocratic governance, people-centered development, and cross-sector leadership. Their influence spans local, regional, and national levels, touching lives through both policy and practice. The family continues to be a pillar of service and leadership in Northern Luzon.
