THE Philippine maritime and shipping sectors have joined the nation in mourning the passing of Dante Arevalo Ang, Chairman Emeritus of The Manila Times.
Industry leaders credited Ang as a visionary who recognized that as an archipelagic nation, the Philippines’ progress is inextricably linked to the sea. He understood that the global economy depends on trade moved by ships — vessels that are, in turn, kept moving by Filipino seafarers who comprise the single largest nationality in the global maritime workforce.
By institutionalizing maritime news, Ang ensured that this critical economic driving force was given its rightful place in national discourse.
Under his guidance, The Manila Times became the first major daily in recent years to establish a dedicated Maritime Page, providing a consistent platform for an industry that serves as a pillar of the nation’s strength and a vital component of the global supply chain.
This visionary venture was strongly supported by the Ang siblings — from Dante “Klink” Ang II and Michael Alexander Ang to Anna Marie “Bubbles” Ang-Thompson, who currently serves as the publication’s Chief Executive Officer.
Manned by seasoned maritime journalists, the section was launched and sustained with the foundational support of prominent industry figures. This included regular columnists like Ambassador Carlos Salinas, the PTC Group Founder and an International Maritime Organization (IMO) Maritime Ambassador, and Atty. Brenda Pimentel, a former IMO Regional Coordinator for Technical Cooperation in East Asia and a 24-year veteran of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).
Industry leaders pay tribute
Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan expressed her gratitude for Ang’s vision, noting that the maritime page helped bridge the gap between the industry and the public.
“Chairman Ang was a respected journalist whose commitment to public service helped make the maritime sector better understood,” Malaluan said. She recalled that The Manila Times was recently honored as Marina’s Media Partner of the Year during its 50th anniversary, a testament to the partnership Ang fostered.
Dr. Conrado Oca, President of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (Amosup), highlighted Ang’s role in giving a voice to the Filipino seafarer.
“We are grateful for a far-reaching audience that gets to know the recent developments in the seafaring industry and Amosup’s role in protecting our Filipino seafarers, who man a significant portion of the global fleet,” Oca stated.
A commitment to economic growth
In a message relayed by Ericson Marquez, the Joint Manning Group (JMG) and the Filipino Association for Mariners Employment Inc. (FAME) expressed their deepest sympathies. They emphasized that Ang was instrumental in ensuring that seafaring developments were recognized for their vital role in the country’s economic development.
“He was instrumental in ensuring that maritime industry news be given importance in the daily delivery of news to the whole country,” the groups stated, thanking The Times for highlighting the seafaring industry’s role in manpower and national growth.
Ang acquired The Manila Times in 2001, restoring its status as a pillar of the Philippine press. Beyond publishing, he served the country in various capacities, including as a presidential strategist and an envoy for business and tourism investments. He was known for his integrity and his belief that journalism should serve as a tool for national progress.
As the industry mourns his passing, the Manila Times Maritime Team — mentored by his standard of excellence — vows to continue his legacy of providing a strong, clear voice for the Philippine maritime community.
