Who is Anton Tantoco Huang? Only Filipino in BOF 500 Class of 2025

The Business of Fashion (BoF) has released its BOF 500 Class of 2025, a global list of the most influential people in fashion. This year, only one Filipino made it to the list: Anthony “Anton” Tantoco Huang, the President and CEO of SSI Group, Inc.

His achievement makes him the fourth Filipino to enter the prestigious BOF 500. He follows Stephen Gan in 2013, Bryanboy (Bryan Grey Yambao) in 2013, and Jappy Gonzalez in 2017.

Who is Anton Tantoco Huang? Early Life and Family Legacy

Anton Huang was born into the well-known Tantoco family, the founders of Rustan’s. His grandparents, Bienvenido Tantoco Sr. and Gliceria Rustia, opened the first Rustan’s store more than 70 years ago. The business grew into one of the country’s biggest luxury retail groups.

His mother, Zenaida “Nedy” Tantoco, later became CEO of SSI Group. She was also a strong supporter of arts and culture in the Philippines. After her passing, Anton took over and brought the family’s vision into the digital age.

Starting in the Family Business

Anton joined the family company at a young age. Even while in college, he spent his free time helping in the stores. He learned the basics by checking products, talking to customers, and managing different brand sections.

He first worked in Rustan’s Department Store, then later at Rustan Marketing Corp. He was assigned to handle fragrances and later inspected lingerie for Maidenform. These early roles helped him understand retail from the ground up.

Leading SSI Group into the Future

Anton became CEO of SSI Group and quickly made major changes. In 2025, SSI bought almost 100% of Rustan Marketing Corp., giving the group control over more fragrance, luggage, and footwear brands.

He also launched Trunc.ph in 2020 during the pandemic. This was a digital shopping platform that allowed customers to buy luxury brands online. It became the first multi-brand luxury eCommerce site in the Philippines.

Under his leadership, SSI has continued to expand its portfolio of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle labels. The company now represents over 100 global brands in the country.

Awards and Global Recognition

Anton’s success has also been recognized internationally. In 2015, the French government awarded him the title of Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. In 2017, the Italian government honored him as Cavaliere dell’Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana.

These awards highlighted his contribution in bringing European luxury brands closer to Filipino shoppers.

Advocacy for Women Empowerment

Aside from business, Anton also works for social change. He is one of the founding members of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment. The group promotes gender equality in big companies and encourages other businesses to do the same.

Challenges Ahead

Even with success, Anton faces challenges. Consumer spending in 2025 is expected to be weaker. Despite this, SSI plans to bring in more brands to keep up with changing market demands.

Industry watchers say his inclusion in BOF 500 proves that Anton is not only a local retail leader but also a global fashion figure.