After months of battling cancer and other illnesses, Filipino teacher Jaime “James” Ando Baguio passed away on Friday noon, January 31 at Police General Hospital in Bangkok.

Baguio was initially diagnosed with a brain tumor. Doctors also found a lymphoma and eventually he had a kidney failure. After being hospitalized for a month, he was brought home on December 16 but again he was taken back to the hospital and into the ICU on January 17. He was in a coma for four days before his death.

PinoyThaiyo was able to meet Baguio’s Thai partner, Oat, who took care of him since he was diagnosed. Oat’s mother and friends had been immensely concerned about Baguio’s condition.  

Filipino friends led by Jay Lyn Roma of Tindahan Ni Aling Rjay (TNRJ) had been a constant presence during Teacher James’ ordeal. Baguio’s two sisters in Valencia, Bukidnon also flew in to Bangkok last January 17 to take care of their brother. In a video call earlier, their 64-year mother who couldn’t hide her anguish was incessantly crying. She also thanked the people who have been helping her son. 

Thai friends, neighbors, relatives  and Filipino co-teachers also came in the afternoon to offer their condolences. Fil-Thai Mrs Aida Panchamnong also assisted in translation.

The family members want to repatriate Teacher James’ remains to the Philippines but big amount of money is needed. His hospital bill alone is around 200,000 baht and they are still clueless where to get the money to get his remains. The bill in the previous hospital was paid for by his Thai family and through donations. Roma who is also leading fundraising campaigns is now in contact with the Philippine Embassy, OWWA and local government unit in Valencia to solicit their help.

The plan right now is to have a 2-3 days funeral wake at Holy Redeemer Church once his body is released by the hospital. Dates and other updates will be posted once they become available.

To help Teacher James’ family and friends in paying his hospital bills and repatriating his remains, you may send any amount to the account number below. 

Krungsri Bank (Bank of Ayudhya)
Ryan Velasquez 
5861223841

Ryan Velasquez is a distant relative. Teacher James’ two sisters are currently staying at Velasquez’s apartment.

Teacher James hailed from Valencia, Bukidnon. He lived and worked in Thailand for 13 years.

PinoyThaiyo and our readers extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to Teacher James’ family and friends in this moment of grief.

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Photos: James Ando Baguio Facebook and friends