Photo from Marife Mordido's Facebook account.

MANILA — Marife Mordido, affectionately known as Ate Marife, Pepot or Mamu, has passed away after a courageous battle with breast cancer. 

A respected figure in the beauty industry, Marife dedicated more than 30 years of her life as a celebrity makeup artist, earning the admiration and love of her clients, colleagues, and friends. 

Marife began her career as a makeup artist for the iconic comedy show "Ang TV" before continuing her work with ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs. 

Her talent and dedication left an indelible mark on the industry, and many remember her as more than just a makeup artist — a mentor, friend, and source of light.

ABS-CBN journalist Dyan Castillejo, who attended Marife’s wake, shared, “I want to remember her the way she was — a very loving and happy person. She was jolly and would always say, ‘Ate Dyan! Love mo ako?’ She loved people so much, and you could feel that love from her. She wanted love back, too.”

ANC anchor Karmina Constantino also paid tribute to Marife, recalling her generosity and nurturing spirit. 

“Marife has always been very generous, especially when we were just starting years ago. When you were touched by Marife’s hands, it felt like you had already made it. But she never kept that to herself; she made sure other makeup artists had their chance. She taught them, she gave them breaks. She was never selfish.”

One of Marife’s closest friends and longest clients, Dr. Vicki Belo, posted an emotional tribute on Instagram.

“Twenty years of togetherness @mmordido. My good vibes girl, my protector, and one of my closest friends. I love you so much.” 

Belo’s youngest daughter, Scarlet Snow, also shared her grief, saying, “One day I’ll see you again in heaven, Ate @mmordido. Thank you for taking good care of Mommy and me. I will miss you a lot. Please kiss Jesus for me.”

The entertainment and media industries were quick to honor Marife’s memory.

Former ABS-CBN Star Patroller Ginger Conejero remembered her as a source of positivity, saying, “Napaka-sweet at saya ninyo, laging nakakahawa ang good vibes. ’Di kita makakalimutan, Ate Marife. Mahigpit na yakap, mahal ko kayo.” 

"It’s Showtime" host Amy Perez expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you for all your love!!!! I will miss you, Pepot! Rest now in the loving arms of Jesus.” 

"TV Patrol" anchor Bernadette Sembrano also shared, “I love you, Ate Marife! Taos-pusong pakikiramay.” 

Vlogger Small Laude expressed disbelief, writing, “I cannot believe you’re gone! You are so kind and loyal. Goodbye, Marife.” 

Other prominent personalities such as Karen Davila, Niña Corpuz, Cheska Kramer, and Marc Logan shared messages of love and gratitude, remembering Marife’s kindness and the joy she brought to everyone around her. 

Marife leaves behind her husband, Olan, and their three children — Sophia, Nicole, and Kevin. 

Kevin shared fond memories of his mother, saying, “Si Mama po, fighter, talagang masipag. 'Pag galing abroad, talagang, ‘Anak, labas tayo.’” 

Nicole added, “My mother, despite leaving the country all the time, always looked out for us. Even when she was far away, she made sure we felt her presence.”