Baguio mourns death of pillar of Filipino-Chinese community

The city council adopted resolution no. 309, series of 2022, expressing the Summer Capital’s deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of the late Ang Yok Kuan also known as ‘William Ang’, who passed away on July 16, 2022. He was a leader of the Filipino-Chinese community and ‘Most Outstanding Citizen of Baguio’ awardee in 1992 for business.

The measure states that Ang was among the pillars of the Association of Philippine-China Understanding (APCU)-Baguio City Chapter; Baguio Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Inc.; and the Lions Club International, and others, where he was also among the most hardworking and driving forces behind programs of these groups.

He was born on September 2, 1932 in Xiamen, China and he and his family arrived in Baguio City in 1947 where he devoted his time helping Chinese and Filipinos in a way that does not distinguish color, race, or culture, it states.

“William Ang was always disposed to looking after the civic needs and welfare of the people of Baguio.  A silent worker, his laudable works were recognized by various entities and offices in the city,” the resolution states.

He has received many awards and accolades from various organizations during his lifetime and helped establish sisterhood relations between Baguio City and Hangzhou City, China.

Ang was president of the Baguio Patriotic High School and part of various committees which planned the city’s Lunar New Year festivities for over 30 years and was one of the earliest photographers in the city where he traveled throughout the Cordillera region to take scenic photos for commercial postcards that highlighted the country’s beauty.

“William Ang lived a full life.  His legacy speaks highly of his intense desire to share, help and move people to do public good.  He may be Chinese by blood but he was definitely a Filipino by heart. He and his works will never be forgotten by the city that is so grateful for his contributions that are etched in the lives of those he touched during his lifetime,” the resolution states. – Gaby B. Keith