“Yes, Fritz Ynfante is from Iloilo. He’s an Ilonggo,” said veteran actress Jessica Pica who had been directed by Fritz in the 1960s and 1970s in such shows as “Two for the Road” in ABS-CBN.
“I should know because I respect him so much. He was a very excellent and perfectionist director,” recalled Jessica whose film was “Anak Ka ng Tatay Mo” with the late young action star Ramgen Revilla directed by the late Edward Palmos and produced by Ramon Revilla, Sr.
“Fritz was a very light person. He was also a light director but heavyweight. He was happy when he knew you got what he told you to do,” added Pica who is very happy and content in her life.
“Ayaw ko na ng gulo. Masyadong magulo ang showbiz (I don’t want chaos anymore. Showbiz is chaotic)(. At least, Fritz is now at peace with the world,” Jez confessed.
Entertainment writer Art Tapalla, a native of Hilabaan Island in Dolores, Eastern Samar also confirmed that Ynfante was from Iloilo.
“Malambing siyang magsalita (He’s very tender/soft when he talked),” described Tapalla.
“Yes, pero pag hindi niya makuha ang gusto niya sa pag-arte mo o pagharap mo sa kamera, mahigpit siya (But if you didn’t get what he wanted you to do in acting or just facing the cameras, he was very strict,” corroborated Jessica who is still open for a film or TV comeback.
“Basta ‘yong hindi magulo parang no’ng idinirek ako ni (Provided it’s not chaotic just like when I was being directed by) Fritz,” the actress who defeated Hilda Koronel at the “Miss Nite Owl Dance Party” in the olden days of Channel 11 challenged.
Ynfante died last July 21, 2025 and the local entertainment industry mourned his passing.
Martin Nievera was hurt when he heard that his director in “Penthouse Live” was gone.
Martin’s co-emcee in the show, Pops Fernandez, gave a heartfelt eulogy for the Visayan movie, theater and TV artist. “You taught me to stand tall, to speak with purpose, to move with meaning, and to honor the stage with truth and passion.
“Much of what I know, I learned from you. It is an honor to have learned from one of the best. Thank you, Tito Fritz, for everything!” said Pops.
Iloilo will forever be grateful for him in bringing honor to the region.
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