The name Raoul Aragon, formerly spelled Raul Aragon when he started his acting career with Lea Productions, will always be etched not only in my heart and mind but most especially to the public's consciousness.
Raoul was ahead of me in getting into show business but we had spent memorable times together especially when he did movies with Lino Brocka and other prominent directors.
One of the most unforgettable memories I shared with him was during his stay in Sampaloc, Manila.
It was the late music beat columnist Celso Sabiniano who introduced me to Raoul. Ricardo Tampadong in real life.
Aragon was a frequent guest of Celso in his house in Sampaloc.
We would conduct interviews at Sabiniano's place.
Being associated with Brocka, now National Artist for Film and Boy C. de Guia, his business manager, I also had the chance to talk and interest with Raoul.
Until he became a fixture in other film genres like action where he changed the spelling of his name as he subscribed to the good fortune effects of numerology.
Afterwards, I didn't see him anymore in showbiz functions.
I learned that he migrated to the US with his family.
The sad news is that he recently died from liver cirrhosis abroad.
This was confirmed by his daughter Rica Tampadong Raymundo through Rica’s high school classmate at the Benedictine Abbey School, now San Beda College in Alabang, to TV5 and Radyo Singko showbiz reporter Laila Chikadora.
Here's the Tampadong Family's official statement through Rica:
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Raoul Aragon who left us peacefully on January 22, 2026, in Downey, California, USA. He was 78 years old.
“Raoul was a veteran actor who won the Best Actor Award in 1979 for the Lino Brocka directed movie ‘Ina Ka ng Anak Mo’ starring Lolita Rodriguez and Nora Aunor. He is also known for his role as Tio Kadyo in the movie ‘Pasan Ko Ang Daigdig’ alongside Sharon Cuneta. He also starred in movies such as ‘Working Girls, ‘Waikiki,’ and some TV series such as ‘Aguila’ with Val Sotto.
“He is survived by his devoted wife, Josie, and his children Zoilo, Nina, Rica, Jose, and Raul, along with their spouses. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Zachary, Leila, Kimi, Mika, and Jada, who brought him so much pride and joy.
“A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he will be remembered for his quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family.
“He lived a full life, guided by love, hard work, and deep care for those around him. His presence will forever be missed, but his values and memories will continue to live on in our hearts.
“His remains will be flown to the Philippines, where a proper viewing and memorial service will be arranged so family and friends can gather to honor and celebrate his life.
“We thank everyone for their prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.”
Entertainment writer Mell T. Navarro facilitated the publication of the family's statement.
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