Award-winning actor Ronaldo Valdez's sudden demise Sunday afternoon at the St. Luke's Hospital has sent denizens of local show business in dismay and sadness.
Even more so, after reports surfaced that the veteran actor, 76, allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself.
Prize-winning actress Chanda Romero, who has been paired with Ronaldo in several movies, notably with the late Danny Zialcita at the helm, remembers the actor with fondness.
In her social media posts, Chanda notes: "Ron... One of my favorite leading men... a real treasure in Philippine movie industry... a perfect gentleman... with a sweet and happy disposition and wicked wit...
"Rest well, my dear friend
"You will be missed. Sorely missed
I"'m sure you're already bantering with Danny Zialcita now. Hugs to him too."
Sexy actress Sabrina M. wrote in her Facebook wall: "Paalam sa isa sa pinakamahusay na aktor Tito Ronaldo..isang karangalan ko po na makatrabaho kayo sa aking pelikula na (Goodbye to one of the best actors Tito--an term of endearment to an older man by affinity or blood as in uncle--it's an honor to have worked with you in my film) 'The Claudia Zobel Story. Paalam po LOLO (Goodbye GRANDFATHER) SIR."
Revered screenwriter and director Jose Javier Reyes pens heartwarming and thoughtful notes: "Think not of the sadness with each parting but rather the greatness that he has left behind.
"He swept all the acting awards as the down-to-earth patriarch in the movie that changed my entire career, 'May Minamahal.' And he has proven to be one of the most versatile actors spanning across generations.
"You will be remembered as your work has made you immortal in the annals of Philippine cinema, Ronaldo Valdez. As I can never look back at my filmography without emphasizing the important role you played in shaping the kind of movies I have megged.
"Maraming salamat (Thanks lot, Sir Lolo (Grandpa). Have a safe trip home to our Father."
Actress-comedienne Tessie Tomas eulogizes Valdez in her socmed pages: "HINDI KA NAMIN MALILIMUTAN (WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU), RONALDO. May you find everlasting peace in God's loving arms."
Actress and film aficionado Isidra Reyes takes her sentiments virtually, thus: "Remembering the Consummate Filipino Actor, Ronaldo Valdez (27 November 1947-17 December 2023)...His film and television career spanned over six decades and was known for his versatility, talent, dedication to his craft, and the camaraderie he developed with his co-stars, directors, and production staff. Philippine Cinema has lost a great actor!"
Valdez's wake started Monday at the Loyola Memorial Chapels in Guadalupe, Makati City.
Photo Caption: Ronaldo Valdez and Chanda Romero (Photo Credit: Chanda Romero Alejandrino's Facebook)
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