In the storied halls of the National Press Club of the Philippines (NPC) in Intramuros, Manila, where the legacies of the country’s most influential journalists are enshrined, a new portrait now hangs—a tribute to a man who may not have been a journalist by profession but whose impact on Philippine media is undeniable.
On March 14, 2025, Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua was posthumously honored and inducted into the NPC Hall of Fame, joining a distinguished group of individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry. He is among the few who have received this rare distinction since the NPC’s founding in 1952.
NPC President Leonel “Boying” Abasola led the simple but moving ceremony, highlighting the weight of this recognition. He noted that the Hall of Fame is not an accolade given often or lightly—the last induction took place more than a decade ago, way back in 2012, recognizing the late pioneering publisher-editor Jose G. Burgos Jr. The decision to honor Cabangon Chua was the result of careful deliberation by the NPC board, with a formal proposal initiated by NPC Board Director Aya Yupangco.
During the ceremony, Board Secretary Ma. Kristina Maralit presented a deeper look into his legacy, beginning with the words he held closest to his heart—that he wished to be remembered “for the love of a child for his mother.” This devotion to his mother Dominga, she explained, was the foundation of his drive, the force that led him to success, and the reason he dedicated his life to creating opportunities for others.
At just 26, he took his first bold step into the business world by establishing Filipinas Pawnshop, reaching millionaire status before the age of 30. But for him, success was never just about personal wealth—it was about creating opportunities and making a difference in people’s lives. His vision led to the rise of a vast business empire spanning multiple industries, covering every stage of life’s journey.
He built businesses that served people from birth to one’s final moments, from memorial care and pre-need services to insurance, media, banking, pawnshops, real estate, car dealerships, hotels, education and security, among others. Each venture was driven by his vision to meet essential needs and uplift communities.
But it was in media that his passion truly found its purpose. Cabangon Chua believed that a well-informed nation was a strong nation. With this vision, he built the ALC Media Group, launching institutions dedicated to journalistic integrity.
Through the years, he built an extensive media network that remains relevant and impactful today. Among his most notable ventures was DWIZ 882 AM, a powerhouse in news and public affairs radio, delivering fearless journalism and in-depth reporting. He also launched 97.9 Home Radio FM, catering to a wide audience with its music and entertainment programs.
In print media, he founded BusinessMirror, one of the country’s leading business newspapers, known for its sharp analysis of economic and corporate affairs. His passion for storytelling was evident in his revival of the Philippines Graphic, a premier literary magazine that continues the legacy of his dear friend, National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin. To make business news more accessible to the masses, he established Pilipino Mirror, the country’s first business tabloid in Filipino.
In television, his heirs have recently fulfilled one of his dreams by launching Aliw Channel 23, a free-to-air digital television bringing high-quality content to Filipino audiences.
Cabangon Chua’s deep love and dedication to media were nurtured and strengthened by the friendships he built with some of the most respected figures in journalism and literature. Among them were Blas Ople, Amado Hernandez, Celso Carunungan, Nick Joaquin, Clem Roxas, Greg Brillantes, Pete Lacaba, Gimo de Vega, Rolando Carbonell, Emil Jurado, Tony Lopez, Cesar Mella, Willy Baun, Butch Del Castillo, Nering Andolong, Bubby Dacer, Cecil Arillo, Fred dela Rosa, Caloy Castro, Teddy Boy Locsin, Juan Dayang, Amado Gat Inciong, Pat Gonzales, and Joe Tumbokon.
Cabangon Chua understood the role of media in shaping society. He was not one to write headlines or report from the field, but he made it his mission to build platforms where journalism could thrive, ensuring that the Filipino people had access to credible news and responsible reporting. His contributions were not just about business; they were about service to the nation.
Maralit also highlighted Cabangon Chua’s dedication to religious advocacies, including promoting Beato Lorenzo Ruiz’s canonization. He commissioned the Brown Madonna, a Filipino Marian image, gifting a replica to Pope John Paul II. He supported churches and religious groups, furthering his commitment to faith. His legacy continued in 2015 when Isuzu Gencars provided the Popemobile for Pope Francis’ visit, which the Pontiff praised as a “beautiful car.” Later that year, the Cabangon family donated a second Popemobile to the Vatican.
His work as Ambassador to Laos further cemented his legacy, fostering diplomatic ties and strengthening international relations. He extended his generosity by funding scholarships and supporting Laotian children, many of whom now hold esteemed positions in their country.
As his portrait was unveiled among the nation’s greatest journalists, statesmen, and media icons, the Cabangon family, represented by the children of Ambassador Cabangon Chua—D. Edgard, T. Anthony, D. Antoinette, Doan, and Randy Cabangon—as well as his grandson, Wesley Cabangon stood before the gathered guests and graciously accepted the honor, thanking the NPC for recognizing Ambassador Cabangon Chua’s lifelong dedication to media.
D. Edgard A. Cabangon expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, saying, “On behalf of our family, we thank the National Press Club for this great honor given to our father, Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua.”
He also pledged to uphold his father’s legacy, stating, “We will continue to strengthen his vision and ensure that the institutions he built serve Filipinos with integrity, relevance, and dedication, just as he intended.”
Leading the occasion were NPC officials, including President Leonel Abasola, Secretary Ma. Kristina Maralit, Treasurer Mina Navarro, and Auditor Lydia Bueno, along with NPC directors Aya Yupangco, Alvin Murcia, Benedict Abaygar, Gina Mape, Jeane Lacorte, Jun Mendoza, and Dennis Napule.
Among those in attendance were former NPC presidents Paul Gutierrez, Rolando Gonzalo, and Lydia Bueno, along with Presidential Task Force on Media Security Undersecretary Jose Torres, Amba’s close friends, and members of the media.
As the ceremony concluded, it became clear that Cabangon Chua’s legacy in Philippine media would not simply be remembered—it would continue to shape and inspire generations to come.
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