Sandy Javier
Sandy Javier | |
|---|---|
| Vice Governor of Leyte | |
| Assumed office June 30, 2022 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Leonardo Morales Javier Jr. January 28, 1951 |
| Spouse | Lolita Tañala |
| Relatives | Danny Javier (brother) |
| Occupation | Politician |
Horse racing career | |
| Occupation | Horse breeder and owner |
| Racing awards | |
| PSA Horse Owner of the Year (2024) | |
| Significant horses | |
| Wind Blown | |
Leonardo "Sandy" Morales Javier Jr. is a Filipino politician, businessman, and Thoroughbred racehorse breeder and owner. He has served as the vice governor of Leyte since 2022 and is also the owner of Andok's, a roasted chicken chain.
Early life and education
[edit]Leonardo "Sandy" Morales Javier Jr. was born on January 28, 1951.[1] He is the eldest of five children of Leonardo "Andok" Javier Sr., who was an engineer. Sandy Javier graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University.[2]
In his 30s, Javier traveled to Japan, where he worked various odd jobs. He has also recounted earning money by allowing members of the Yakuza to slap him. He subsequently moved to Germany as an undocumented worker, where he lived with an American and worked as a television repairman. He returned to the Philippines after learning that his father was gravely ill.[2]
Political career
[edit]Mayor of Javier
[edit]Sandy Javier was a previous mayor of the municipality of Javier, Leyte.[3] He was elected as mayor in 2010 ending the Cua family's control over the town. Javier succeeded Joel Cua.[4] His son Michael Dragon was elected as vice mayor, marking the younger Javier's debut in politics.[4]
Sandy Javier has also served as president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines.[3][5]
Vice Governor of Leyte
[edit]Sandy Javier was elected as the vice governor of Leyte during the 2022 election.[4][6] He ran unopposed for a new term in the 2025 election.[7]
Business career
[edit]Javier is the owner of the rotisserie chain Andok's.[3] He started the business before entering politics and named it after his father.[2]
Horseracing career
[edit]Sandy Javier is involved in the horse racing scene in the Philippines. He owns several horses such as Presidential Gold Cup champions Strong Material, Wind Blown, Empire King, Magna Carta, and Super Sonic.[8][9][10]
Javier had been breeding horses at the Royal Maverick Ranch in Rosario, Batangas since at least 1995.[11] This includes Strong Material and Wind Blown.[11] The latter horse is a two-time Gold Cup champion.[12]
Javier was recognized as the Horse Owner of the Year at the 2024 PSA Annual Awards.[13]
Personal life
[edit]Javier is married to Lolita Tañala[3][1] He is part of a political family with his wife Tañala having served as a member of the Houses of the Representatives for Leyte's 2nd district. His son, Jassie Lou has served as mayor of Jaro and his other Michael Dragon is mayor of Javier municipality.[6]
Sandy Javier's brothers include comedian George Javier and singer Danny Javier, a member of the Apo Hiking Society.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ a b "Leonardo Morales Javier Jr". Rappler. July 27, 2025. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ a b c d Jimenea, Lalaine (September 3, 2011). "Feature from cents to millions". The Philippine Star. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ a b c d Meniano, Sarwell (October 17, 2018). "Wife of Andok's owner joins Leyte's congressional bid". Philippine News Agency. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ a b c Tumandao, Donabel (October 20, 2023). "New faces that look familiar: Local Politics in Leyte Province". UP sa Halalan. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ "Aquino to mayors: Make reform programs permanent". Politiko. April 15, 2015. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ a b Marticio, Marie Tonette (May 14, 2025). "Gov. Petilla of Leyte reelected". Manila Bulletin. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ "Petilla, other Leyte officials proclaimed; vow to fulfill fresh mandates". Leyte Samar Daily News. May 19, 2025. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ "Javier lends hand to new racetrack". The Philippine Star. February 10, 2024. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ "Previous winners: Presidential Gold Cup". Manila Standard. December 16, 2001. p. 10. Retrieved July 27, 2025.
- ^ "Super Sonic wins PCSO Gold Cup". Manila Standard. January 16, 2020. Retrieved July 28, 2025.
- ^ a b Mendez, Carlo (July 28, 2002). "Another wise investment". Manila Standard. p. A11. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ Iñigo, Manolo. "What's the latest on super horse Wind Blown". Philippine Daily Inquirer. p. A31. Retrieved July 29, 2025.
- ^ Malanum, Jean (January 31, 2024). "Javier feted at 2024 PSA Awards". Philippine News Agency. Retrieved July 29, 2025.