2023 Year-Ender: Celebrities who died this year | ABS-CBN
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2023 Year-Ender: Celebrities who died this year
2023 Year-Ender: Celebrities who died this year
Paulea Jence Benoza
Published Dec 31, 2023 03:38 PM PHT
As celebrities celebrated milestones this year, the entertainment industry also grieved the loss of iconic individuals.
As celebrities celebrated milestones this year, the entertainment industry also grieved the loss of iconic individuals.
Here are the stars who passed away this year:
Here are the stars who passed away this year:
Andrei Sison
Andrei Sison, a teen artist under Sparkle GMA Artist Center, passed away on March 24 after being involved in a car accident. He was 17 years old.
Andrei Sison, a teen artist under Sparkle GMA Artist Center, passed away on March 24 after being involved in a car accident. He was 17 years old.
His agency confirmed the news of his death in a statement posted on social media on the day of the accident. “Sparkle GMA Artist Center sadly announces the passing of one of its teen artists Andrei Sison, due to a car accident early this morning. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Andrei. We request everyone to respect his family’s privacy in this time of great loss and join us in praying for the eternal repose of his soul.”
His agency confirmed the news of his death in a statement posted on social media on the day of the accident. “Sparkle GMA Artist Center sadly announces the passing of one of its teen artists Andrei Sison, due to a car accident early this morning. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Andrei. We request everyone to respect his family’s privacy in this time of great loss and join us in praying for the eternal repose of his soul.”
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“He was a well-loved and much-cherished member of the Sparkle family. We will miss you, Andrei. Be with God now.”
“He was a well-loved and much-cherished member of the Sparkle family. We will miss you, Andrei. Be with God now.”
Andrei rose to fame for posting dance covers and other trending videos on TikTok where he had over 8,000 followers. Per PEP.ph, he was supposed to make his debut alongside other Sparkle Teens before his shocking death. Actor Ricky Rivero, who is related to Andrei, reacted to the tragic news on Facebook. "Gone too soon. I love you my pamangkin," he said.
Andrei rose to fame for posting dance covers and other trending videos on TikTok where he had over 8,000 followers. Per PEP.ph, he was supposed to make his debut alongside other Sparkle Teens before his shocking death. Actor Ricky Rivero, who is related to Andrei, reacted to the tragic news on Facebook. "Gone too soon. I love you my pamangkin," he said.
Patrick Guzman
The former actor and ‘90s heartthrob died on June 15 at the age of 56, according to acting coach Beverly Vergel. Patrick was best known for his roles in films like Sa Piling ng Iba, Una Kang Naging Akin, and Koronang Itim.
The former actor and ‘90s heartthrob died on June 15 at the age of 56, according to acting coach Beverly Vergel. Patrick was best known for his roles in films like Sa Piling ng Iba, Una Kang Naging Akin, and Koronang Itim.
Per his obituary, Patrick is survived by his wife Liezle and his children Aiden, Aerielle, and Jam.
Per his obituary, Patrick is survived by his wife Liezle and his children Aiden, Aerielle, and Jam.
John Regala
Veteran actor John Regala died on June 3 after battling multiple ailments. He was 55.
Veteran actor John Regala died on June 3 after battling multiple ailments. He was 55.
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His niece, Nene Lour Billones Bendijo, announced the actor’s death in a post on social media. "No more Pain na Tito,” she wrote. “PAALAM Tito John Regala!”
His niece, Nene Lour Billones Bendijo, announced the actor’s death in a post on social media. "No more Pain na Tito,” she wrote. “PAALAM Tito John Regala!”
Born John Paul Guido Boucher Scherrer, John was best known for starring in films including Isa-Isahin Ko Kayo,” Bukas Bibitayin si Itay, and Askal. He most recently appeared on FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano as Congressman Randolf Subito.
Born John Paul Guido Boucher Scherrer, John was best known for starring in films including Isa-Isahin Ko Kayo,” Bukas Bibitayin si Itay, and Askal. He most recently appeared on FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano as Congressman Randolf Subito.
In 2011, John won Best Supporting Actor for his role in the Metro Manila Film Festival entry Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story, where he played Totoy Golem. John was the son of late actors Mel Francisco and Ruby Regala.
In 2011, John won Best Supporting Actor for his role in the Metro Manila Film Festival entry Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story, where he played Totoy Golem. John was the son of late actors Mel Francisco and Ruby Regala.
Mario Dumaual
The veteran showbiz reporter died on July 5 after suffering a severe fungal infection, according to a report by ABS-CBN News. He was 64 years old.
The veteran showbiz reporter died on July 5 after suffering a severe fungal infection, according to a report by ABS-CBN News. He was 64 years old.
"Papa was strong, he kept fighting on, overcoming the heart attack and then a cardiac arrest. He would always say he wanted to go home because he missed us, his family. But the infection overwhelmed his body’s ability to recover," his family said in a statement.
"Papa was strong, he kept fighting on, overcoming the heart attack and then a cardiac arrest. He would always say he wanted to go home because he missed us, his family. But the infection overwhelmed his body’s ability to recover," his family said in a statement.
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"What comforts us is he knew that we were always with him, waiting for him, and that home was wherever he felt our love. We also made it a point to let him know how loved he was by his friends in the industry and even kind strangers who have been offering prayers and help for his recovery."
"What comforts us is he knew that we were always with him, waiting for him, and that home was wherever he felt our love. We also made it a point to let him know how loved he was by his friends in the industry and even kind strangers who have been offering prayers and help for his recovery."
They “added, Papa was our rock, we depended much on him. But he also nurtured us to become strong and able and to be the best version of ourselves.
They “added, Papa was our rock, we depended much on him. But he also nurtured us to become strong and able and to be the best version of ourselves.
"Beyond his family, we’d like to think he also left a legacy in entertainment journalism. He made us proud as Mario Dumaual the reporter, but ultimately more so as a devoted husband, father, and granddad."
"Beyond his family, we’d like to think he also left a legacy in entertainment journalism. He made us proud as Mario Dumaual the reporter, but ultimately more so as a devoted husband, father, and granddad."
He is survived by his wife Cherie and children Luigi, Miguel, Maxine, William, and Thessa.
He is survived by his wife Cherie and children Luigi, Miguel, Maxine, William, and Thessa.
Ricky Rivero
Actor-director Ricky Rivero died at age 51. His sister, Beverly Salvador-Quintela, shared the news of his death in a message to ABS-CBN News last July.
Actor-director Ricky Rivero died at age 51. His sister, Beverly Salvador-Quintela, shared the news of his death in a message to ABS-CBN News last July.
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The news of his death comes months after Ricky — who famously survived a stabbing incident back in 2011 — suffered a stroke and was confined at the Philippine Heart Center in May. His partner also announced the actor’s death through his official Facebook page, saying, “Good morning po inyong lahat maraming salamat po sa tumulong sa asawa ko na c Ricky. ngayon po Wala na po c Ricky S. Rivero namayapa na po maraming salamat sa walang sawang tulong sa Asawa ko.”
The news of his death comes months after Ricky — who famously survived a stabbing incident back in 2011 — suffered a stroke and was confined at the Philippine Heart Center in May. His partner also announced the actor’s death through his official Facebook page, saying, “Good morning po inyong lahat maraming salamat po sa tumulong sa asawa ko na c Ricky. ngayon po Wala na po c Ricky S. Rivero namayapa na po maraming salamat sa walang sawang tulong sa Asawa ko.”
Ricky started his career in the ‘80s via the variety show That’s Entertainment. He also starred in films like Ninja Kids and Samurai Sword. In addition to acting, Ricky also directed several ABS-CBN shows, including Kokey, Forevermore, Eva Fonda, and Mula sa Puso.
Ricky started his career in the ‘80s via the variety show That’s Entertainment. He also starred in films like Ninja Kids and Samurai Sword. In addition to acting, Ricky also directed several ABS-CBN shows, including Kokey, Forevermore, Eva Fonda, and Mula sa Puso.
Willie Nepomuceno
The comedian and impersonator died on July 26 at 75, his family confirmed in a Facebook post. “To our family, loved ones, and friends, it is with deep sadness and heavy heart to announce the passing of our beloved father, WILLIE NEPOMUCENO on July 26, 2023, at the age of 75. He has peacefully joined our creator,” they said.
The comedian and impersonator died on July 26 at 75, his family confirmed in a Facebook post. “To our family, loved ones, and friends, it is with deep sadness and heavy heart to announce the passing of our beloved father, WILLIE NEPOMUCENO on July 26, 2023, at the age of 75. He has peacefully joined our creator,” they said.
“We ask for your continued prayers. Thank you very much,” they added.
“We ask for your continued prayers. Thank you very much,” they added.
According to Willie’s son, the 75-year-old comedian hit his head on the floor after falling out of his bed last July 24. After suffering from a subdural hematoma and undergoing a craniotomy, Willie became comatose. His official cause of death was announced as acute brain hematoma due to head injury.
According to Willie’s son, the 75-year-old comedian hit his head on the floor after falling out of his bed last July 24. After suffering from a subdural hematoma and undergoing a craniotomy, Willie became comatose. His official cause of death was announced as acute brain hematoma due to head injury.
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In the wake of his death, his son, Willie Wilson Nepomuceno, also posted an emotional tribute to his father on his Facebook page.
In the wake of his death, his son, Willie Wilson Nepomuceno, also posted an emotional tribute to his father on his Facebook page.
"Thank you, Tatay, for your unwavering love and for being an incredible father. Your legacy will forever be engraved in my heart. Rest well, knowing that you are deeply loved and missed," he wrote.
"Thank you, Tatay, for your unwavering love and for being an incredible father. Your legacy will forever be engraved in my heart. Rest well, knowing that you are deeply loved and missed," he wrote.
Willie was known for his satirical comedy and impersonation of political figures, including former presidents Joseph “Erap” Estrada, Fidel V. Ramos, Ferdinand Marcos, and Rodrigo Duterte. He also ventured into singing and came out with several studio albums during his career.
Willie was known for his satirical comedy and impersonation of political figures, including former presidents Joseph “Erap” Estrada, Fidel V. Ramos, Ferdinand Marcos, and Rodrigo Duterte. He also ventured into singing and came out with several studio albums during his career.
Robert Arevalo
The veteran actor is known for his roles in films like Pangako ng Kahapon and Ama, Bakit Mo Ako Pinabayaan?, passed away on August 10. He was 85 years old.
The veteran actor is known for his roles in films like Pangako ng Kahapon and Ama, Bakit Mo Ako Pinabayaan?, passed away on August 10. He was 85 years old.
Robert’s daughter, Anna Ylagan, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt statement on Facebook.
Robert’s daughter, Anna Ylagan, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt statement on Facebook.
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"Today is the day that the Lord has chosen to take our dearest Papa home. Robert Francisco Ylagan, a.k.a. Robert Arevalo, peacefully passed away at 10:17 a.m. this morning, Aug. 10, 2023. Praise God for His mercy and grace,” she wrote.
"Today is the day that the Lord has chosen to take our dearest Papa home. Robert Francisco Ylagan, a.k.a. Robert Arevalo, peacefully passed away at 10:17 a.m. this morning, Aug. 10, 2023. Praise God for His mercy and grace,” she wrote.
"We are grateful that He has given us the best Papa one can ever wish for. Thank you for loving us the way you did, Pa. Although our hearts are broken, we are comforted by God’s promise that He has a place reserved for you in His kingdom in Heaven where all of us who believe in His son, Jesus, will one day reunite," she added.
"We are grateful that He has given us the best Papa one can ever wish for. Thank you for loving us the way you did, Pa. Although our hearts are broken, we are comforted by God’s promise that He has a place reserved for you in His kingdom in Heaven where all of us who believe in His son, Jesus, will one day reunite," she added.
Robert began his career in the ‘60s in the movie Huwag Mo Akong Limutin. He went on to star in a number of films and shows, most recently FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano as Efren. Robert is survived by his wife, actress Barbara Perez, and their three kids Anna, Christian, and Georgina.
Robert began his career in the ‘60s in the movie Huwag Mo Akong Limutin. He went on to star in a number of films and shows, most recently FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano as Efren. Robert is survived by his wife, actress Barbara Perez, and their three kids Anna, Christian, and Georgina.
Jun Urbano
Actor-comedian Jun Urbano, more popularly known as “Mr. Shooli,” has died at the age of 84.
Actor-comedian Jun Urbano, more popularly known as “Mr. Shooli,” has died at the age of 84.
His son, Chris, confirmed to ABS-CBN News that he died of a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm last December 2. In a Facebook post, Chris gave a short but sweet farewell to his late father. “I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life. I love you so much and, until we meet again,” he said.
His son, Chris, confirmed to ABS-CBN News that he died of a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm last December 2. In a Facebook post, Chris gave a short but sweet farewell to his late father. “I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life. I love you so much and, until we meet again,” he said.
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June was last seen onscreen in shows like ABS-CBN’s Ang Probinsiyano and the 2020 fantasy adventure film Magikland, where he played the role of Dagrin. In addition to acting, Jun was also credited with directing films like Vontes V, M.O.N.A.Y (Misteyks obda neyson adres Yata) ni Mr. Shooli, and Juan Tamad at Mister Shooli: Mongolian Barbecue, which won six awards during the 1991 Metro Manila Film Festival.
June was last seen onscreen in shows like ABS-CBN’s Ang Probinsiyano and the 2020 fantasy adventure film Magikland, where he played the role of Dagrin. In addition to acting, Jun was also credited with directing films like Vontes V, M.O.N.A.Y (Misteyks obda neyson adres Yata) ni Mr. Shooli, and Juan Tamad at Mister Shooli: Mongolian Barbecue, which won six awards during the 1991 Metro Manila Film Festival.
On their official Facebook page, the UP College of Mass Communication also paid tribute to the actor-director.
On their official Facebook page, the UP College of Mass Communication also paid tribute to the actor-director.
“The UP College of Mass Communication mourns the passing of Mr. Manuel "Jun" Urbano, Jr., the honoree of this year’s U.P. Gawad Plaridel. He was 84 years old," their post read.
“The UP College of Mass Communication mourns the passing of Mr. Manuel "Jun" Urbano, Jr., the honoree of this year’s U.P. Gawad Plaridel. He was 84 years old," their post read.
Kokoi Baldo
The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 contestant Kokoi Baldo, whose real name is Juan Manuel Ubaldo, passed away on December 8, due to a vehicular accident. The accident took place at Circumferential Road in Purok Active, Brgy. Mandalagan in Bacolod City.
The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 contestant Kokoi Baldo, whose real name is Juan Manuel Ubaldo, passed away on December 8, due to a vehicular accident. The accident took place at Circumferential Road in Purok Active, Brgy. Mandalagan in Bacolod City.
The manager and wife of Kokoi posted on his official Facebook account to announce the passing of the singer.
The manager and wife of Kokoi posted on his official Facebook account to announce the passing of the singer.
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“It is with a heavy heart to inform the public, especially the fans, that Kokoi Baldo has passed away earlier this morning,” his wife, Sam, wrote.
“It is with a heavy heart to inform the public, especially the fans, that Kokoi Baldo has passed away earlier this morning,” his wife, Sam, wrote.
“We kindly ask for privacy during this hard time in respect to his family and friends. He will be missed, loved, and forever in our hearts,” she added.
“We kindly ask for privacy during this hard time in respect to his family and friends. He will be missed, loved, and forever in our hearts,” she added.
Kokoi was dubbed the Bob Marley of the Philippines for his reggae style of singing. He rose to popularity after competing in The Voice Philippines Season 2 under Sarah Geronimo's team.
Kokoi was dubbed the Bob Marley of the Philippines for his reggae style of singing. He rose to popularity after competing in The Voice Philippines Season 2 under Sarah Geronimo's team.
Ronaldo Valdez
Ronaldo Valdez passed away on December 17 at the age of 77. He is survived by his wife, Maria Fe Ilagan Gibbs, and their two children, Janno and Melissa.
Ronaldo Valdez passed away on December 17 at the age of 77. He is survived by his wife, Maria Fe Ilagan Gibbs, and their two children, Janno and Melissa.
His son, singer Janno Gibbs, released a statement following his father's death.
His son, singer Janno Gibbs, released a statement following his father's death.
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“It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father’s passing,” Janno wrote.
“It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father’s passing,” Janno wrote.
Janno didn’t disclose or confirm the cause of the late actor’s death. He likewise asked the public to respect their privacy.
Janno didn’t disclose or confirm the cause of the late actor’s death. He likewise asked the public to respect their privacy.
“The family would like to request that you respect our privacy in our grieving moment. Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated,” Janno said.
“The family would like to request that you respect our privacy in our grieving moment. Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated,” Janno said.
Ronaldo played several memorable roles for ABS-CBN. Some of the teleseryes he did for the Kapamilya network include Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo, Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin, 100 Days To Heaven, Ina Kapatid, Anak, Ikaw Lamang, Magpahanggang Wakas, and Los Bastardos.
Ronaldo played several memorable roles for ABS-CBN. Some of the teleseryes he did for the Kapamilya network include Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo, Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin, 100 Days To Heaven, Ina Kapatid, Anak, Ikaw Lamang, Magpahanggang Wakas, and Los Bastardos.
He also starred in several iconic Star Cinema films, including Cedie, The Mistress, at Seven Sundays.
He also starred in several iconic Star Cinema films, including Cedie, The Mistress, at Seven Sundays.
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He was last seen in Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla’s 2 Good 2 Be True.
He was last seen in Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla’s 2 Good 2 Be True.
Samboy Lim
Basketball legend Avelino "Samboy" Lim passed away on December 23, two days before Christmas.
Basketball legend Avelino "Samboy" Lim passed away on December 23, two days before Christmas.
He was 61.
He was 61.
Samboy, who is also known as "The Skywalker," is considered an icon in Philippine basketball.
Samboy, who is also known as "The Skywalker," is considered an icon in Philippine basketball.
"Our Hearts are broken. Today, December 23, 2023, our dearly beloved Samboy passed away peacefully. A man of Faith, exceptional courage, humility, and grace. He embodied the very best of humanity,” his family said in a statement.
"Our Hearts are broken. Today, December 23, 2023, our dearly beloved Samboy passed away peacefully. A man of Faith, exceptional courage, humility, and grace. He embodied the very best of humanity,” his family said in a statement.
Read More:
Barbara Perez
Andrei Sison
Ricky Rivero
Willie
Rodrigo Duterte
Ricky
Chris
Jun Urbano
Mel Francisco
Anna
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