Dante Ang

Dante Ang was the kind of man who walked into a room and made everyone feel like they'd known him for years. With his warm smile and quick wit, he had a way of putting people at ease that few ever master. Born in 1942, Dante grew up believing that words had power—that a well-crafted sentence could change minds, move hearts, and even shape the future of a nation. That belief guided him throughout his remarkable life and ultimately led him to one of the most prestigious platforms in Philippine journalism. In 2001, Dante took the helm of The Manila Times, one of the country's oldest and most respected newspapers. To him, it wasn't just a business—it was a legacy worth protecting and nurturing. He poured his passion into every edition, insisting that truth and integrity were non-negotiable. Those who worked alongside him remember not just the journalist, but the mentor who encouraged young writers to find their voice and never settle for mediocrity. His dedication to honest reporting touched countless lives and inspired a new generation of Filipino journalists. Beyond the newsroom, Dante's heart belonged to his family. He spoke of his wife with the kind of love that still made his eyes soften after all their years together, and his children were his greatest pride. He had a way of making everyone around him feel special—whether it was remembering a colleague's birthday or asking genuinely about a friend's day. His generosity of spirit extended to the broader Filipino community as well, particularly through his work as chairman of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas from 2005 to 2010, where he championed the causes of Filipinos living abroad. Dante had a rich life filled with many accomplishments, but those who loved him most will remember the little things—the stories he told at dinner, the way he laughed at his own jokes before delivering the punchline, the quiet moments when he'd simply sit and reflect on life's blessings. He lived with purpose, loved with his whole heart, and left this world better than he found it. He is survived by all who were fortunate enough to know him, and his memory will live on in every story told with truth and courage. Rest now, Dante—you've earned it.