Entertainment industry mourns the passing of veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez • PhilSTAR Life

Veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez passed away on Sunday, Dec. 17. He was 76.

His son, singer and actor Janno Gibbs confirmed the news on Monday, Dec. 18 by posting a brief statement on Instagram.

"It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father's passing. The family would like to request that you respect our privacy in our grieving moment," he wrote.

"Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated," he concluded. The cause of his death has yet to be disclosed, but the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Monday said it is conducting a "thorough investigation" to find out the cause behind his death.

Valdez has been part of the showbiz industry for decades and has played iconic roles in films and TV shows from being a loving father and comedian to an antagonist. Fans, celebrities, and more people from the industry took to social media to express their grief over his passing.

Actress-filmmaker Bela Padilla lamented the veteran actor’s untimely passing, especially since she grew up watching his roles.

“The news today is so sad :( our greats are joining the stars in the heavens,” she posted on X.

"Star of All Seasons" Vilma Santos, who starred with him in the 1981 film Karma, also paid tribute to her friend.

"Our condolences and prayers. You will be missed," she wrote in her Facebook post. "Rest In Peace, my friend!"

Actress Ina Raymundo, who worked with him in his last TV series 2 Good 2 Be True described Valdez as "one of the sweetest [and] greatest veteran actors" she had worked with.

"It was an honor to be your 'Olivia.' Rest in peace, [Ronaldo Valdez]," she wrote.

Ina Raymundo and Ronaldo Valdez at the set of *2 Good 2 Be True.* Screenshot from @inaraymundo95 / Instagram stories

Filipino film and television director Mae Cruz-Alviar, who helmed 2 Good 2 Be True, also paid tribute to the veteran actors by posting unseen moments of him during their lock-in taping, including bonding with the cast, preparations for the scenes, and his most candid moments alone.

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Screenshot from @maecruzalviar / Instagram

Ronaldo Valdez's first taping day for '2 Good 2 Be True' | Screenshot from @maecruzalviar / Instagram

Screenshot from @maecruzalviar / Instagram

Meteorologist and weather reporter Ariel Rojas described Valdez as “among the best and most prolific actors of Philippine cinema.”

“His swan song 2 Good 2 Be True showcased his range and versatility. Will always remember him as mahal na Conde in Cedie: Ang Munting Prinsipe (1996). Rest in power, Lolo Sir!” he wrote on X.

National film agency, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, also paid tribute to the late actor.

“Lubos na nakikiramay ang Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) sa pamilya at mahal sa buhay ni Mr. Ronaldo Valdez - Beteranong Aktor. (1947 - 2023),” they wrote in their Facebook post. “Ang iyong kontribusyon sa industriya ng Pelikulang Pilipino ay mananatili nakatatak sa aming puso.”

Valdez is known for his roles in various films and television shows, including Cedie, May Minamahal, Seven Sundays, Labs Kita... Okey Ka Lang?, Los Bastardos, FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, and 2 Good 2 Be True. He also starred in commercials for Kentucky Fried Chicken as the Filipino Colonel.

He has two children, singer and actors Janno and Melissa Gibbs.

TAGS: death ronaldo valdez

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Melanie Uson

Melanie Uson is a content producer and a fur mom. When she’s not drowning in deadlines, she is most likely watching sitcoms, crocheting, or thrift-flipping clothes.