Filipino music stars who deceased at age 63

Here are 6 famous musicians from Philippines died at 63:

Simeon Toribio

Simeon Toribio (September 3, 1905 Bohol-June 5, 1969) a.k.a. Simeon Galvez Toribio was a Filipino personality.

He is best known as a high jump athlete who represented the Philippines in the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where he won a bronze medal. Toribio was the first Filipino athlete to win an Olympic medal.

During his athletic career, Toribio set multiple records and won numerous medals in the high jump, long jump, and triple jump events. He also competed in the Asian Games and Southeast Asian Games, where he won gold medals in high jump events.

Aside from his athletic achievements, Toribio also earned a degree in law from the University of the Philippines and served as a diplomat for the Philippine government. He was appointed as the Philippine Consul General to Australia and later to the United States.

In his later years, Toribio suffered from health problems and financial difficulties. He continued to be honored for his contributions to sports and was inducted into the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame in 1987.

After Simeon Toribio's success at the 1932 Olympics, he continued to compete in international events and won multiple medals, including a gold medal in the high jump at the 1934 Far Eastern Games. However, his athletic career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the United States Army Forces in the Far East. After the war, he returned to athletics and won his last gold medal in the high jump at the 1948 Philippine National Games. Toribio then pursued a career in law and government service. In addition to his diplomatic posts, he also served as a Philippine congressman for several years. He was known for his advocacy of physical education and sports development in the Philippines. Today, Toribio is remembered as a sports icon and national hero in the Philippines, with multiple monuments and sports facilities named in his honor.

Toribio was born to a family of farmers in the municipality of Carmen, Bohol in the Philippines. He grew up in poverty and had to work odd jobs to support himself and his family. Despite these challenges, Toribio showed early talent in sports and excelled in high jump while attending the Bohol Provincial High School.

After completing his education, Toribio moved to Manila to study law at the University of the Philippines. There, he also joined the university's track and field team and further developed his athletic skills. In 1928, Toribio set the Philippine high jump record at 1.94 meters, a record that would stand for over 10 years.

Toribio's success in the 1932 Olympics made him an instant celebrity in the Philippines, and he became a role model for young athletes aspiring to compete in international events. He inspired a generation of Filipino athletes to aim for excellence and brought attention to the potential of Philippine sports.

After retiring from athletics, Toribio remained active in promoting sports development in the Philippines. He served as the chairman of the Philippine Amateur Athletic Federation and was instrumental in establishing the Philippine Sports Commission, which oversees the development and funding of sports in the country. Toribio also founded the Philippine Olympians Association, a group that brings together former Filipino Olympians.

Toribio's legacy continues to inspire generations of Filipino athletes and sports enthusiasts. The Simeon Toribio Sports Complex in his hometown of Carmen, Bohol, and the Simeon Toribio Memorial Stadium in Manila are just two of the many sports facilities named in his honor. He is remembered as a symbol of Filipino resilience, perseverance, and excellence.

In addition to his athletic and government achievements, Simeon Toribio was also a talented musician. He played multiple musical instruments, including the violin and guitar, and was a regular performer on the radio. Toribio believed that music and athletics go hand-in-hand and often used his musical talent to motivate and inspire young athletes.

Despite facing discrimination and racism during his athletic career, Toribio remained humble and gracious in his successes. He refused to let negative experiences define his outlook and instead focused on the positive impact he could make through sports and government service.

Even after his death in 1969, Toribio's legacy continued to inspire generations of Filipinos. In 2021, the Philippine Postal Corporation released a special stamp collection featuring Toribio along with other Filipino sports icons. The stamp collection is a testament to Toribio's enduring influence and lasting impact on Philippine sports history.

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Raul Roco

Raul Roco (October 26, 1941 Naga, Camarines Sur-August 5, 2005 Quezon City) a.k.a. Raul Sagarbarria Roco or Raul S. Roco was a Filipino lawyer, politician and film producer. He had six children, Robbie Pierre Roco, Raul Roco Jr., Sophia Roco, Sareena Roco, Rex Roco and Synara Roco.

Raul Roco was known for his passion and dedication to public service, which served as the foundation of his political career. He was a highly respected and scholarly individual, who graduated with honors from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1964. After completing his law degree, he went on to earn a Master of Laws degree from Yale University in the United States.

He entered politics in the 1980s and was initially elected to the House of Representatives in 1987. He later served as Secretary of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports, and then as Senator from 1992 to 2001. Raul Roco was a highly influential figure in Philippine politics, and he was known for his ability to inspire and motivate people to work towards a common goal.

Aside from politics, Raul Roco was also involved in the film industry. He was a co-founder of the Film Development Council of the Philippines, which was established to promote the development of the local film industry.

Despite his untimely death in 2005, Raul Roco's legacy still lives on. He was a true champion of democracy and a passionate advocate for social justice, and his contributions to Philippine society will never be forgotten.

He was also known for his advocacy for education reform, and was instrumental in the passage of the Free High School Act which made secondary education free for all Filipino students. Raul Roco was also known for his staunch support of human rights, and was a leading figure in the struggle against Ferdinand Marcos' dictatorship. He was one of the founders of the Council for People's Development and Governance, a non-governmental organization that aimed to promote good governance and empower local communities. In 2004, he ran for president of the Philippines as the standard-bearer of the Alyansa ng Pag-asa (Alliance of Hope) political party. Despite his loss in the elections, he remained committed to his vision of a better Philippines until his death the following year.

During his time in the Senate, Raul Roco was well-respected for his work in passing important laws that supported economic development and provided much-needed social services to the people of the Philippines. He authored and co-sponsored several significant bills, including the Philippine Clean Air Act, which aimed to reduce air pollution and promote clean energy, and the Barangay Kabuhayan Act, which provided livelihood opportunities to grassroots communities. In addition, Raul Roco also worked tirelessly to promote transparency and accountability in government, and was one of the principal authors of the Government Procurement Reform Act, which established a framework for fair and open public procurement practices.

Aside from his political achievements, Raul Roco was also a devout Catholic who actively supported various charitable causes. He was known for his generous donations to institutions that provided education and healthcare services to the poor, and was a staunch supporter of the Catholic Church's social justice teachings. As a statesman and community leader, he embodied the principles of integrity, compassion, and selflessness, and was widely regarded as one of the most respected and beloved public figures of his time.

Throughout his political career, Raul Roco was hailed for his integrity and ethical behavior, and was seen as a role model for aspiring politicians. He was a staunch advocate of political and electoral reforms, and was instrumental in the passage of the Automated Election Law, which aimed to modernize the country's electoral system and promote transparency and accountability. He also championed the cause of good governance and was one of the leading advocates for the passage of the Anti-Corruption Law, which aimed to strengthen the country's existing anti-corruption measures.

As a film producer, Raul Roco was equally passionate about promoting Philippine culture and heritage. He produced several award-winning films that highlighted the country's diverse culture and traditions, including the critically acclaimed "Biyaheng Langit", directed by his daughter, Sari.

Raul Roco's legacy continues to inspire generations of Filipinos, and his contributions to the country are remembered with admiration and respect. He was a true Filipino hero, who will always be remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service, his steadfast dedication to promoting social justice and equality, and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos.

He died as a result of prostate cancer.

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Romy Diaz

Romy Diaz (November 14, 1941 Pampanga-May 10, 2005 Metro Manila) also known as Romy Diax, Judas or Romy was a Filipino actor.

Romy Diaz started his acting career in the 1960s, appearing in minor roles in a number of films before making a name for himself as a character actor. He gained popularity due to his remarkable performances in various iconic films such as Oro, Plata, Mata, Batch '81, and Kapitan Tumba: The Super Ranger Kids. He also worked as a stuntman and assistant director in some of his films.

Aside from acting in movies, Romy Diaz also starred in some TV shows and drama series, including the popular ABS-CBN fantaserye, Marina. He was recognized for his remarkable acting skills and was awarded several accolades throughout his career as an actor.

Aside from his successful acting career, Romy Diaz also had a passion for singing and even recorded some albums in the 1970s. He was married twice and had five children.

Romy Diaz's contributions to the Philippine film industry will always be remembered and celebrated. His remarkable performances in various films made him one of the most respected actors in the country.

Despite battling tongue cancer, Romy Diaz continued to act until his final days. He was known for his professionalism and dedication to his craft, often taking on challenging roles that showcased his versatility as an actor. Romy Diaz's legacy also extends beyond his acting career. He was known for his philanthropy and often helped out his fellow actors who were struggling financially or in need of medical assistance. In 1991, he was awarded the Natatanging Gawad Urian, the highest honor given by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, for his contributions to Philippine cinema. Romy Diaz's memory continues to be honored by his fans and colleagues in the industry, who remember him as a talented actor and a kind-hearted person.

Romy Diaz was born on November 14, 1941, in Pampanga, Philippines, and spent his childhood in poverty. Despite this, he was determined to pursue his dream of becoming an actor, and his hard work eventually paid off. He started his career in the movie industry as a bit player, often playing the role of a thug or a henchman. His breakthrough role came in the 1980s, when he played the villain in the critically acclaimed film, Oro, Plata, Mata. This role catapulted him to fame and established him as one of the most talented actors of his generation.

Aside from his successful career in movies and television, Romy Diaz was also an accomplished stage actor. He appeared in several plays, including the popular musical, Himala, where he played the role of the town sheriff. He was also a talented writer and director, and he wrote and directed several movies during his career.

Despite his success, Romy Diaz remained humble and always had time for his fans. He was known for his generosity and kindness, and he often mentored younger actors who looked up to him. He was also an avid sportsman and loved to play basketball and billiards.

Romy Diaz's death on May 10, 2005, was a great loss to the Philippine film industry. His contributions as an actor, writer, and director will always be remembered, and he will forever be celebrated as one of the greatest actors in Philippine cinema.

In addition to his successful acting career, Romy Diaz was also passionate about politics and was a fervent supporter of former Philippine President Joseph Estrada. He even ran for public office himself in 2004, but was unsuccessful in his bid for a seat in the House of Representatives of the Philippines. Despite this, Romy Diaz remained active in politics throughout his life and was known for his unwavering support of the common people and their rights.

Romy Diaz's contributions to the Philippine film industry were recognized posthumously in 2007 when he was inducted into the FAMAS Hall of Fame. This honor is given to individuals who have made a significant impact on the Philippine film industry through their work as actors, directors, writers, and other related professions.

Romy Diaz's legacy continues to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers in the Philippines. His dedication to his craft and his kindness toward others serve as a reminder that success is possible through hard work, talent, and an unwavering commitment to doing what one loves.

He died in tongue cancer.

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Roy Alvarez

Roy Alvarez (March 23, 1950 Pagbilao-February 11, 2014 Quezon City) a.k.a. Leandro Delantar Alvarez was a Filipino actor, screenwriter, film director and television director.

Roy Alvarez started his career as an actor in the 1970s and gained recognition for his roles in films such as "Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang" (You Weighed But Found Wanting) and "Oro Plata Mata" (Gold Silver Death). He continued to act in films and television shows throughout his career, earning numerous awards and nominations for his performances.

Aside from acting, Alvarez was also a respected screenwriter, writing the scripts for several critically acclaimed films such as "Bona", "Ang Panday" (The Blacksmith), and "Batch '81". He also ventured into directing, helming the films "Pag-Ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa" (Love for the Motherland) and "Killing My Lola".

Alvarez was known for his social activism and advocacy work, particularly in the field of theater. He co-founded the alternative theater group Teatro ng Bayan and was a member of the Concerned Artists of the Philippines (CAP), an organization that aimed to bring attention to social issues through art and cultural work.

His death was a great loss to the Philippine entertainment industry and his legacy as an actor, writer, and activist continues to inspire future generations.

Alvarez was born on March 23, 1950, in Pagbilao, Quezon, Philippines. He studied at the University of the Philippines and took up a course in theater arts. He was a multi-talented artist and played various roles on stage, TV and film. Some of his notable performances on stage include his performance as Willy Loman in Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman".

Aside from his involvement in the creative industry, Alvarez also served as a board member of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) during the administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Alvarez was a man of principle and stood firm on his beliefs and advocacies. He was vocal about his support for social justice and human rights. He was also active during the re-establishment of the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), a prominent theater group in the Philippines. His advocacy work was recognized and he received several awards for his dedication to the arts and activism.

Alvarez's death in 2014 was a great loss to the entertainment industry and his contributions to Philippine arts and culture will always be remembered.

In addition to his work in theater, film, and television, Roy Alvarez was also a committed environmentalist. He was a founding member of the Kalikasan People's Network for the Environment, an environmental organization that aimed to promote sustainability and protect the Philippines' natural resources. Alvarez was also a frequent speaker and advocate for environmental causes, using his platform as a famous actor and activist to raise awareness about issues such as climate change and pollution. His dedication to environmentalism earned him recognition from organizations such as the Philippine League for Environment and the Arts (PLEA) and the Environmental Protection and Information Bureau (EPIB). Despite his passing, Alvarez's legacy as an artist, activist, and environmentalist continues to inspire Filipinos to this day.

Throughout his career, Roy Alvarez was highly regarded for his skills in both acting and writing, as well as his commitment to using the arts as a means of promoting social justice and positive change. His work with Teatro ng Bayan and CAP attests to his belief in the transformative power of theater, and he remains a beloved figure among those who work in the Philippine entertainment industry. In addition to his artistic accomplishments, Alvarez's work as an environmentalist demonstrates his dedication to protecting the environment and leaving a positive impact on the world. His influence continues to be felt in Philippine culture and beyond, and he is remembered as a talented artist and passionate advocate for causes he believed in.

He died in cardiac arrest.

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Jojo Lapus

Jojo Lapus (April 12, 1943 Makati-September 20, 2006 Makati) also known as Julio M. Lapus, Jojo M. Lapus, Jojo M. Lapuz or Jojo Lapuz was a Filipino screenwriter, journalist and columnist. He had one child, John Lapus.

Lapus started his career as a journalist, working for various publications such as The Manila Times, Philippine Star, and Tempo. He later ventured into screenwriting and worked on several films including "Patikim ng Pinya" (1996), "Mahal Kita... Kahit Sino Ka Pa" (2001), and "Mano Po 2" (2003).

Aside from his work in the entertainment industry, Lapus was also known for his outspokenness and activism. He was a member of the National Press Club and served as its president from 1989-1990. He also authored several books, including "Ted Failon: A Beacon of Truth in a Sea of Propaganda" and "The Press and the President: A Love-Hate Affair."

Lapus passed away in 2006 due to complications from diabetes. He was remembered for his wit, humor, and passion for journalism and storytelling.

In addition to his work in journalism and entertainment, Jojo Lapus was also an advocate for press freedom and a vocal critic of government corruption. He was known for his fiery speeches and fearless reporting, which earned him both admirers and enemies in the Philippines. Lapus was a recipient of the Gawad Plaridel Award for Journalism, an honor given by the University of the Philippines to "outstanding media practitioners who have excelled in any of the media (print, radio, film, television, and new media) and have performed with the highest level of professional integrity in the interest of public service." Despite his passing, Lapus's legacy as a trailblazer in Filipino journalism and a creative force in cinema lives on.

During his early years in journalism, Jojo Lapus was known for his fearless and hard-hitting reporting on Philippine politics and corruption. He was one of the journalists who covered the Edsa Revolution in 1986, which overthrew former President Ferdinand Marcos. Lapus also reported on the controversial presidential term of Joseph Estrada in the late 1990s. He was considered by many to be a true champion of press freedom and a voice for the marginalized in society. Throughout his career, Lapus received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including the Catholic Mass Media Award, and the Jaime V. Ongpin Awards for Excellence in Journalism. Lapus's son, John Lapus, followed in his father's footsteps and became a successful actor and comedian in the Philippines.

In addition to his work in journalism and entertainment, Jojo Lapus was also a staunch LGBTQ+ rights advocate. He was an openly gay man and often used his platform to speak out against discrimination and promote equality. In 1996, he founded the Society of Publishers in Asia (SOPA), a group that aims to promote ethical journalism and press freedom in Asia. Lapus was also a founding member of the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce, which works to empower the LGBTQ+ community in business and economics. Despite facing backlash and harassment for his sexuality, Lapus remained a fearless and inspiring figure for the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines. Today, he is remembered as a trailblazer not only in journalism and entertainment but also in the fight for equality and human rights.

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Apeng Daldal

Apeng Daldal (October 12, 1928 San Luis, Pampanga-February 9, 1992 Manila) also known as Serafin Gabriel was a Filipino actor, writer, singer and comedian.

He appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career, earning him the title "King of Comedy" in Philippine showbiz. Apeng Daldal was known for his quick wit, engaging personality, and impeccable comedic timing. He was also a talented writer and penned several hit songs, movies and television shows. In addition to his career in entertainment, Daldal was also an avid businessman and owned a number of successful restaurants and nightclubs throughout the Philippines. His legacy as one of the most beloved and influential figures in Philippine entertainment continues to endure to this day.

Daldal started his career in the entertainment industry in the 1950s, and quickly gained popularity for his comedic roles in films and television shows. His breakthrough role came in the 1963 film "Buhay Artista", where he played the lead character. He became a household name in the Philippines and continued to star in several successful films such as "Kalabog en Bosyo", "Si Lucio at Si Miguel", and "Dolphy's Angels".

Apart from his work in the entertainment industry, Daldal was also a civic leader and was involved in various charitable works. He was a member of several organizations including the Lions Club International, Elks Club International, and the Philippine Boys Scouts. His philanthropy and contributions to society earned him recognition and awards, including the Presidential Award of Merit and the Gawad Ng Mabuting Pilipino.

Despite his success and accomplishments, Daldal remained humble and grounded. He was known for his generosity and kindness towards his colleagues and staff. He passed away in 1992 at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved comedian, writer, businessman, and philanthropist.

Throughout his career, Apeng Daldal also received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions to Philippine entertainment. He was a recipient of several FAMAS awards, including Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Asawa Ko Huwag Mong Agawin" and Best Screenplay for "I Love You Mama, I Love You Papa". In addition, he was also recognized by the Philippine Movie Press Club with a Lifetime Achievement Award and was inducted into the FAMAS Hall of Fame.

Daldal's success in showbiz paved the way for other comedians and actors to follow his lead. His influence on Philippine comedy and entertainment continues to be felt today. Many of his iconic films and television shows are still watched and enjoyed by audiences today, more than two decades after his passing. He remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and comedians, as well as a beloved figure in Philippine culture.

In addition to his work as an actor and writer, Apeng Daldal was also a celebrated singer. He recorded several albums and was known for his hit songs such as "Si Yoyoy" and "Bulaklak". His music showcased his versatility as an artist and showcased his comedic and musical talent. He was also a regular performer on television shows and variety shows.

Apeng Daldal's impact on Philippine entertainment goes beyond his success in showbiz. As a businessman, he created job opportunities for many Filipinos through his restaurants and nightclubs. He was also a strong advocate for the welfare of his fellow entertainers and worked to improve their working conditions and benefits.

Daldal's contributions to Philippine entertainment were recognized with a star on the Philippine Walk of Fame and a statue in his hometown of San Luis, Pampanga. His legacy continues to be celebrated through film festivals and tributes, and his work remains a source of entertainment and inspiration for generations of Filipinos.

Read more about Apeng Daldal on Wikipedia »

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