Norman Santos of Universal Motion Dancers passes away at 52

Screen grab: Facebook/Chato Maria

Norman Santos, a member of the iconic 1990s dance group Universal Motion Dancers (UMD), has passed away at the age of 52 due to kidney failure.

His partner, Chato Maria, announced his passing on February 3, 2025, through a Facebook post, sharing that Santos had been battling kidney disease for over 12 years, requiring regular dialysis treatments.

“It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Norman Santos on February 3, 2025, after a prolonged fight against kidney failure, necessitating dialysis for over 12 years,” she wrote.

Chato Maria also reminisced about their early days together, recalling a special moment when they first met during a bowling league.

“Unang picture natin dahil nanalo ka sa bowling 1st runner-up, ako ang nag-present ng award mo. (Committee ako sa bowling league, hindi pa kita as in kilala talaga dyan.) Meant to be ba? Same color shirt pa tayo!” she shared.

In another emotional post, she expressed her deep sorrow over his passing.

“Memories mo na lang ang pinanghahawakan ko. Napakasakit pala ng iwan ng tunay na taong nagmamahal sa’yo! Hindi ko alam kung paano tanggapin na wala ka na forever.”

Santos’ wake will be held from February 12 to 16 at St. Peter Memorial Chapel in Tabacuhan, Olongapo City (Del Rosario St.).

Santos was part of UMD, one of the most popular all-male dance groups of the 90s, known for their synchronized dance moves and hit performances.

Mga miyembro ng UMD, muling sinayaw ang 'Dying Inside'