MANILA, Philippines – The Gatchalian brothers – Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian and Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian – were one in mourning for the passing of The Manila Times Chairman Emeritus Dante Arevalo Ang (DAA).
“I join the country in grieving the passing of Mr. Dante Ang. The country lost a civic giant in Mr. Ang, a man who firmly believed in the role of journalism in nation-building and lived by his devotion to the truth,” said the senator, Valenzuela’s former long-time mayor.
Beyond the newsroom, he said, DAA displayed his dedication to public service when he served as special envoy for international public relations and chair of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas and through his philanthropic work.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) chief described DAA as a distinguished journalist and public servant whose leadership in the Philippine media helped shape public discourse and upheld a resolute commitment to truth and service.
“His legacy is one of dedication, influence, and meaningful contribution to the nation,” said Secretary Rex, also a former long-time Valenzuela mayor and lawmaker.
“On behalf of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, I convey my heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family and to the entire Manila Times community on the passing of Dante Arevalo Ang, DBA, Chairman Emeritus of The Manila Times,” he added.
Mayor Wes, meanwhile, said DAA played a vital role in upholding the country’s oldest and most respected newspaper – The Manila Times.
“Mr. Ang’s contributions to public discourse and nation-building helped shape an informed citizenry, an essential foundation for responsive and accountable governance,” he said.
From the perspective of the Valenzuela City government, the former lawmaker-turned-mayor stressed that institutions like The Manila Times serve as indispensable partners in communicating truth, amplifying the voices of communities and fostering transparency in public service.
“Mr. Ang’s leadership in media strengthened these ideals, reinforcing the crucial role of a free and responsible press in nation-building,” the city chief executive emphasized.
May Mr. Ang find solace in the enduring impact of his life and in values he championed throughout his journey, the Gatchalian brothers said.
