Bado M. Dangwa was a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential of the transportation industry in the Cordillera region of the Philippines. He was born in Cadtay, Kapangan, Benguet, on May 5, 1905, and he showed an early interest in mechanics and engineering.
In the 1920s, Dangwa recognized the need for an efficient means of transportation in the Trinidad Valley region, which was becoming a major producer of vegetables. With foresight and determination, he bought five dilapidated Chevrolet cars from the North Garage in La Trinidad and refurbished their engines. With a loan of ten pesos, he converted three of them into passenger vehicles.
Dangwa's new transportation service proved to be popular. His vehicles plied the La Trinidad-Baguio City route, connecting the region to the rest of the country and boosting the local economy. Dangwa's vision and entrepreneurial spirit helped to pave the way for the development of the transportation industry in the Cordillera region.
Dangwa's business grew rapidly. By the time World War II broke out, he had a fleet of 173 buses. He used his buses to transport supplies and troops, and he even participated in the guerrilla movement.
Dangwa served as a guerrilla leader during the war. He led a group of Igorot fighters who fought against the Japanese occupation. After the war, Dangwa rebuilt his transportation company and continued to grow his business.
In addition to his business acumen, Dangwa was also a dedicated public servant. He was appointed governor of Mountain Province in 1953, and he served in that position until 1963. During his time as governor, Dangwa worked to improve the infrastructure of the province, and he also promoted education and economic development.
Dangwa was a philanthropist, and he donated land and money to build schools and hospitals in the Mountain Province. He was also a strong advocate for the rights of the Igorot people, the indigenous people of the Cordillera region.
Dangwa died in 1976, but his legacy continues to inspire people in the Cordillera region. He is remembered as a pioneer of the transportation industry, a war hero, and a dedicated public servant.
Here are some of Bado Dangwa's contributions to the Cordillera region:
- Founded Dangwa Transportation Company, which is now one of the largest bus companies in the Philippines.
- Served as governor of Mountain Province from 1953 to 1963.
- Improved the infrastructure of the province, including roads, bridges, and schools.
- Promoted education and economic development in the province.
- Donated land and money to build schools and hospitals in the province.
- Advocated for the rights of the Igorot people.
Bado Dangwa's legacy is one of innovation, service, and dedication. He was a true pioneer of the transportation industry in the Cordillera region, and he made significant contributions to the development of the province. His legacy continues to inspire people in the Cordillera region today.
