MANILA, Philippines: The entertainment industry and fans around the world are mourning the loss of veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez. On Sunday, family and friends expressed their grief, with many paying tribute to him on social media.
Confirming the sad news, Valdez’s son, actor Janno Gibbs, took to Facebook on Monday to share the heartbreaking announcement. He wrote, “It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father’s passing. The family kindly requests that you respect our privacy during this time of grieving. Your prayers and condolences are deeply appreciated.”
Last November, Gibbs had excitedly revealed that he would be sharing the screen with his father in a movie he directed, set to premiere in January 2024. This project was a special opportunity for the father-son duo to collaborate and create something memorable together.
Valdez’s co-star in his final teleserye, “2 Good 2 Be True,” Kathryn Bernardo, took to her Instagram stories to share a series of photos and video clips of Valdez. She also posted pictures of him attending the premiere of her movie “A Very Good Girl,” where he made a memorable entrance on the red carpet in an electric wheelchair. This public appearance turned out to be his last.
Fellow co-stars from the series, Franco Laurel and Alyssa Muhlach, also took to Instagram to remember Valdez. Muhlach expressed her love and admiration, saying, “Always loved. Never forgotten. Forever missed. I love you, Tito Ron!” Laurel, on the other hand, thanked Valdez for the memories and stories shared during their time together on set, saying, “Tito Ron, it has been a pleasure and honor to have worked with you. Thank you for the memories and stories you have shared with us during our lock-in days at 2B2BT! I will miss you.”
Renowned singer Gary Valenciano uploaded a heartfelt photo of Valdez and wrote a touching caption, “You were one person who I loved to watch. Your authenticity never failed to move me. Thank you, sir Ronaldo Valdez. I never had a chance to work much with you, but in those few moments I spent talking with you, it made me feel blessed to know that I got to meet someone like you. Rest in His peace, sir. I know His embrace will always keep you smiling.”
Actress Dimples Romana shared a poignant video featuring a scene with Valdez from the 2009 episode of “MMK” titled “Bisikleta.” In her heartfelt message, she expressed her broken heart but vowed to remain strong, saying, “For you, Lolo taught me to brave the huge waves of life with the spirit of a warrior whose armor is not made of steel but is made of love. The kind that endures all and conquers even the darkest of days. Salute to one of the greatest actors of all time for me. A man who knew how to value not only his work but more importantly every single other person on and off the set. We love you, Lo. Deeply and dearly. Rest now. We will continue to love and admire you.”
Born Ronald James Dulaca Gibbs, Valdez passed away at the age of 76. The cause of his death remains undisclosed. He is survived by his wife, Maria Fe Ilagan Gibbs, and his children Janno and Melissa Gibbs.
Valdez had an illustrious acting career that spanned nearly six decades. He was discovered by comedian Dolphy in the mid-1960s and gained popularity for his portrayal of important father roles and rich father figures.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Valdez continued to be cast in similar roles, leaving a lasting impact on TV dramas such as “Mula sa Puso” (1997-1999), “Ang Munting Paraiso” (1999-2002), and “Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan” (2001-2003). He also starred in the romantic comedy film “Labs Kita… Okey Ka Lang?” (1998). To younger audiences, Valdez is known for his appearances in TV series like “Los Bastardos” (2018-2019) and films such as “The Mistress” (2012), “All You Need is Pag-ibig” (2015), and “Seven Sundays” (2017).
His final project was the romantic drama series “2 Good 2 Be True” (2022), where he co-starred with former love team and real-life couple Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla. In the series, Valdez portrayed the character “Lolo Sir,” leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Ronaldo Valdez’s contribution to Philippine cinema and television will always be remembered. His talent, authenticity, and the love he shared with his fellow actors and fans will forever be cherished. Rest in peace, Ronaldo Valdez.
Source: The Manila Times