Lily Monteverde passes away at 85

Lily Monteverde, also known as Mother Lily, has passed away. She was 85 years old.

Goldwin Monteverde, UP Fighting Maroons head coach and son of Monteverde, confirmed the news to GMA News Online.

The cause of death cause of death has not been released yet.

Just a few days ago, Monteverde's husband, Remy, passed away on July 29. Monteverde announced his death on Instagram.

Tributes

Tributes flooded in from the entertainment industry for Monteverde. Her goddaughter Senator Grace Poe said: "I’m so sorry and sad to hear about Mother Lily’s passing. My Ninang Mother always believed in me and assured me whenever I doubted myself. She has helped so many and she will never be forgotten. She was, and will always be, a Titan in the Philippine movie industry. Our deepest sympathies and condolences to her family and loved ones."

Director Joey Reyes simply shared a heartbroken emoji on Facebook with the caption: "His will be done."

Born Lily Yu Chu, Monteverde began her entrepreneurial journey with a small popcorn business, using her earnings to acquire the local rights to the film All Mine to Give.

Monteverde eventually founded Regal Entertainment in 1962 and ventured into film production with Kayod sa Umaga, Kayod sa Gabi, which became a box-office hit in 1976. This marked the birth of the studio production company.

Alma Moreno, the first actor to shine under the Regal banner, became a household name as the original "Regal Baby." Other stars whose careers were launched by the veteran producer are Richard Gomez, Maricel Soriano, Aga Muhlach, and more.

Monteverde produced over 300 films and blockbusters such as Mano Po, Shake, Rattle & Roll, Scorpio Nights, and Sister Stella L.

She is survived by her children Dondon, Roselle, Goldwin, Meme, and Winnie.