NaFFAA head speaks on the passing of Ambassador Willy C. Gaa
The late Ambassador Willy Gaa (second from left) when he led Philippine officials and leaders during the hosting of the “Beterano” Photo Exhibit at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC. Photo: Eric Lachica
“Ambassador Willy Gaa was a consummate diplomat, whose actions more than his words, helped make a difference in the Filipino American community’s aspirations for empowerment,” says NaFFAA National Chairman JT Mallonga.
“As Philippine Ambassador to the United States from 2006-2011, Ambassador Gaa deeply cared for the community’s issues and concerns, notably the struggle of Filipino World War II Veterans for justice and equity. He championed this cause with determination and delight, walking the halls of Congress and meeting with U.S. leaders to speak for the thousands of veterans who needed a voice. He was there when the House finally voted for the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund on February 2007, staying late into the night to savor a measure of justice that had long been denied from our brave heroes. Thank you, Ambassador Gaa, for standing with us during our community’s most critical hours.”
Adds community leader Gloria T. Caoile, “Ambassador Gaa came to us in Washington, D.C. with an open mind and a heart full of passion to serve us well. With his wife Linda, they opened their home to the community, relating to us as their family! His wry sense of humor and humility served him well in the rewarding relationships he forged, driven mainly by a passion to serve his people and his country. We will miss you, Sir, but we will never forget the good things you left behind.”
Loida Nicolas Lewis, NaFFAA National Chair Emeritus, commends Ambassador Gaa’s diligent efforts to motivate Filipinos and Filipino Americans to give back to their mother country. “He instilled a sense of devotion and duty to the Philippines by encouraging them to become dual citizens, and be involved in the country’s governance as overseas voters and citizens. He also encouraged community organizations to help needy and distressed Filipino nationals who are in need of legal and humanitarian assistance. He was truly a man who cared. He gave his very best, with quiet dignity and humble grace.”
On behalf of the Filipino American community, NaFFAA wishes to convey the organization’s deepest sympathies to Mrs. Erlinda Gaa and the family during their time of mourning and grief.
Current Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr in a statement said, “It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Ambassador Willy Gaa. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gaa family during this time of loss and sorrow. On this sad occasion, we recall the Ambassador’s long and dedicated service to our country and to the Filipino people. Ambassador Gaa’s professionalism and tireless efforts to advance the interests of the Philippines and the Filipino diaspora community will continue to inspire the work of the Philippine Embassy and Consulates General across the United States.”