Here are 9 famous musicians from Philippines died at 68:
Max Alvarado (February 19, 1929 Manila-April 6, 1997 Metro Manila) also known as Maximo Pompling, Gavino Maximo Teodosio, Maxie Dudale, Pompleng or Pompling was a Filipino actor, dancer, singer and comedian.
He was one of the most prominent character actors during the Philippine film industry's "Golden Age" in the 1950s and 1960s. Alvarado appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, often playing roles as a villain or a supporting actor. Besides acting, he was also a skilled dancer and singer, which he showcased in several films.
Born in Manila as the sixth of seven children of parents who hailed from Pampanga, Alvarado started his showbiz career as a chorus boy in stage plays before transitioning to acting in films in the late 1940s. He quickly established himself as a versatile character actor, known for his ability to shift seamlessly between comedic and dramatic roles.
In the 1970s, Alvarado also ventured into producing films, setting up his own production company, Max Productions. One of his most successful films as a producer was "Banaue: Stairway to the Sky," which was also praised for its striking cinematography of the Banaue Rice Terraces.
Alvarado continued to act until his death in 1997, appearing in films like "Mukha ng Buhay" and "Pusong Mamon." He was posthumously given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Film Academy of the Philippines in 1998.
Alvarado was known for his distinctive appearance, often sporting a bald head and thick eyebrows. He used this to his advantage in portraying various villainous characters in film. Despite his reputation as a villain in cinema, Alvarado was described by his colleagues as a warm and friendly person off-screen. He was also a man of many talents, having dabbled in various other fields such as business, fashion, and even politics. Alvarado was elected as the Vice Mayor of Quezon City in 1988, and was re-elected to the same position in 1992. He was also a philanthropist and was involved in charitable causes throughout his life. Alvarado's contributions to the Philippine film industry have cemented his legacy as one of its most iconic character actors.
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Rafael Donato (October 12, 1938-November 2, 2006) was a Filipino writer.
Rafael Donato was known for his literary works that were deeply rooted in his Filipino heritage. He was particularly recognized for his poetry, which was often imbued with themes of love, faith, and social justice. Donato's works captured the essence of the Filipino experience and reflected his own personal journey.
Beyond his writing, Donato was also a renowned educator and mentor. He taught at various universities, including University of the Philippines, where he spent much of his career. As a teacher, he inspired countless students and was seen as a guiding influence in the Philippine literary scene.
Donato's legacy continues to live on in the works he created and the lives he touched. He is remembered as a gifted writer and educator who dedicated his life to promoting Filipino literature and culture.
Donato's early life was marked by poverty, his father being a farmer and his mother being a laundrywoman. Despite this, he was able to pursue his education and eventually earned a degree in English from the University of the Philippines. His passion for writing was evident early on as he became a prolific contributor to literary journals and publications.
In addition to his literary and educational pursuits, Donato was also a social activist. He was deeply involved in the struggle against the Marcos regime and was even imprisoned for his beliefs. His experiences during this time greatly influenced his writing and he became even more committed to using his words to speak out against injustice.
Donato's contributions to Philippine literature were recognized towards the end of his life. He was awarded the Gawad Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas for his lifetime achievements in literature. Donato's death left a void in Philippine literature and culture, but his legacy remains intact to this day.
He died caused by drowning.
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Enrique B. Magalona (November 5, 1891 Enrique B. Magalona, Negros Occidental-April 5, 1960) a.k.a. Enrique Magalona was a Filipino personality. His child is called Pancho Magalona.
Enrique Magalona was a well-known politician, serving as a member of the Philippine House of Representatives from 1949 to 1953, and later as a senator from 1953 to 1957. He was an advocate for the rights of farmers and laborers and introduced several bills related to social and economic reforms during his time in politics.
Aside from his political involvement, Magalona was also a successful businessman, owning several sugar plantations in Negros Occidental. He was one of the founders of the Philippine Sugar Estate Development Company (PSEDC), which aimed to promote the sugar industry in the country.
Magalona was also a devoted family man and had nine children with his wife, Teresa. His son, Pancho Magalona, became a famous actor and musician in the Philippines, known for his contributions to the local music scene.
Enrique Magalona was born to a well-to-do family in Negros Occidental and received his education in Manila, first at the Ateneo de Manila University and then at the University of the Philippines. He started his career as a journalist, writing for various newspapers in Manila before returning to Negros Occidental to manage his family's sugar estates. This experience gave him a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and laborers in the sugar industry, and he became a vocal advocate for their rights.
During his time in politics, Magalona authored several landmark pieces of legislation, including the Agricultural Tenancy Act, which protected the rights of tenant farmers, and the Magna Carta for Labor, which established minimum wage and working conditions standards. He was also a champion of education, supporting the establishment of schools and scholarships for the children of farmers and laborers.
In addition to his political and business pursuits, Magalona was also involved in various civic and cultural organizations. He was a patron of the arts and was instrumental in the establishment of the Negros Occidental High School for the Arts, which continues to be a well-respected institution for arts education in the Philippines.
Magalona passed away in 1960 at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy of public service and advocacy for the marginalized sectors of society. His contributions to Philippine politics and social reform continue to be remembered and celebrated today.
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Lito Anzures (February 22, 1927 Bulakan-April 5, 1995 Philippines) a.k.a. Angelito Castro Anzures, Lito Anzurez, Lito Ansures or Lito was a Filipino actor.
Lito Anzures started his career in showbiz in the 1950s and became known for his roles in action and drama films. He worked with some of the biggest names in Philippine cinema including Fernando Poe Jr., Dolphy, and Joseph Estrada. Anzures also appeared in several television shows and theater productions. He was recognized for his talent as an actor and received various awards and nominations including a Best Supporting Actor award from the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) for his performance in the film "Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit" in 1989. Anzures was also a former president of the Actors Guild of the Philippines. Despite his success in the industry, he remained humble and dedicated to his craft.
In addition to his impressive acting career, Lito Anzures was also involved in politics. He served as a councilor in the 5th district of Manila from 1988 to 1992. Anzures was known for his advocacy of supporting the rights and welfare of local actors and actresses. He fought for better working conditions, benefits, and protection against exploitation in the film industry. Anzures was also remembered as a loving husband and father. He married his wife, Esperanza, in 1952 and the couple had six children. Despite his busy schedule, Anzures made sure to spend time with his family and attended important events in their lives. He was regarded as a role model and inspiration to many aspiring actors and actresses in the Philippines.
He died caused by natural causes.
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Gregorio Fernandez (May 25, 1904 Lubao-March 11, 1973 Quezon City) otherwise known as Dr. Gregorio M. Fernandez, Dr. Gregorio Fernandez, Doc Greg, Yoyong or Dr. Gregorio Montemayor-Fernández was a Filipino film director, actor and screenwriter. He had eight children, Rudy Fernandez, Ma. Luisa "Merle" Fernandez, Maria Paz Fernandez, Maria Isabel Fernandez, Jose Fernandez, Naria Teresita Fernandez, Emmanuel Fernandez and Mary Anne Fernandez.
Gregorio Fernandez was born in Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines. Before starting his career in film, he worked as a doctor in his hometown for several years. In 1946, he appeared in the movie "Sisa" as an actor, which was his first steps into Philippine cinema, and later on worked on several more movies as both an actor and screenplay writer.
He directed more than 50 films throughout his career, including the critically acclaimed and award-winning films "Anak Dalita" and "Badjao". He was known for his socially relevant films that tackled issues such as poverty, social injustice, and cultural preservation.
Aside from his contributions to Philippine cinema, Fernandez was also involved in politics. He served as a councilor of the city of Quezon from 1953 to 1955 and was also appointed as the Philippine ambassador to Ireland from 1964 to 1967.
Fernandez's legacy in Philippine cinema still lives on, as he is considered one of the country's most influential and prolific filmmakers.
Throughout his career, Gregorio Fernandez won several awards and recognitions for his contributions to Philippine cinema. He was awarded the FAMAS Lifetime Achievement Award in 1956, the Sampaguita Platinum Circle Award in 1960, and the prestigious Gawad CCP para sa Sining in Film in 1972. Fernandez was also a founding member of the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences or FAMAS.
Apart from directing films, Fernandez was also a writer and poet. His poetry collection, "Bago Lumayag ang mga Balangaw", won the Philippine Republic Literary Contest in 1948. His literary works often focused on social issues and the Filipino culture.
Fernandez's son, Rudy Fernandez, followed in his footsteps and became a successful actor in Philippine cinema. Rudy starred in several of his father's films and became known as the "Bad Boy of Philippine Movies". Like his father, Rudy was also involved in politics and served as a senator of the Philippines from 2004 until his death in 2008.
Today, Gregorio Fernandez is remembered as a pioneering figure in Philippine cinema, whose films continue to inspire and influence filmmakers across the country.
He died in myocardial infarction.
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Roland Dantes (June 15, 1940 Philippines-March 16, 2009 Quezon City) otherwise known as Rolando Pintoy Dantes or Roland Santos was a Filipino police officer, actor, bodybuilder and martial artist.
Born in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, Dantes developed an interest in martial arts at a young age and became a member of the Philippine Karate Team. He went on to win multiple national and international championships in karate, earning himself the nickname "The Kickboxer."
Despite his success in martial arts, Dantes pursued a career in law enforcement and became a police officer in Manila. He later joined the Philippine Constabulary and was assigned to the Presidential Security Group under the administration of former President Ferdinand Marcos.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Dantes also pursued acting and appeared in numerous Filipino action films. He was particularly known for his roles in "Isla" (1985) and "Kasalanan ang Buhayin Ka" (1987).
Dantes also made a name for himself in the world of bodybuilding, winning several Mr. Philippines titles and competing in the Mr. Universe competition. He later became a coach and mentor to aspiring bodybuilders and helped establish the Philippine Bodybuilding Association.
Dantes passed away in 2009 at the age of 68 due to complications from diabetes. He was remembered for his contributions not only to martial arts, law enforcement, and entertainment, but also to the development of bodybuilding in the Philippines.
Dantes was featured in several magazines and books, including "Bruce Lee and I" and "Dynamic Karate". He was also a certified instructor in various martial arts disciplines, including Tae Kwon Do, Judo, and Aikido. Throughout his career, Dantes was an advocate for discipline, hard work, and perseverance, often citing his own experiences in martial arts and bodybuilding as examples. He inspired many young Filipinos to take up sports and pursue careers in law enforcement or the entertainment industry. Dantes received numerous awards and recognition for his achievements, including the Outstanding Filipino Award in Athletics and Physical Fitness in 2001. His legacy continues to inspire many in the Philippines and beyond, and he is remembered as a true champion and role model.
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Dencio Padilla (May 7, 1929 Manila-October 10, 1997 Quezon City) also known as Prudencio Padilla, Tata Dens or Dencio Baldivia was a Filipino actor. He had five children, Dennis Padilla, Dencio Padilla, Jr., Richard Padilla, Gene Padilla and Glen Baldevia.
Dencio Padilla appeared in more than 500 films throughout his career which spanned over four decades. He was best known for his comedic roles in Filipino movies and television shows. He often played the sidekick role, providing comic relief to the lead actors. Padilla's notable films include Ang Tatay Kong Nanay, Kambal Tuko, and Totoy Guwapo.
Aside from acting, Padilla was also a businessman. He owned a shoe factory and a resort in Batangas, Philippines. In 1981, he was awarded the Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film "Pabling" at the 29th FAMAS Awards. Despite his success, Padilla lived a simple life and was known for his kindness to those he worked with.
Dencio Padilla passed away on October 10, 1997, due to a heart attack at the age of 68. However, his legacy continues in Philippine cinema, inspiring many other comedians and actors after him.
In addition to his success in the entertainment industry, Dencio Padilla was also known for his philanthropic efforts. He was a generous supporter of various charitable organizations and donated a portion of his earnings to those in need. Padilla was also a devoted family man and often credited his children as his source of inspiration. His son, Dennis Padilla, followed in his footsteps and became a successful actor and comedian as well. Dencio Padilla's impact on Philippine cinema and culture is still felt to this day, and he remains a beloved figure in the industry. In 2010, he was posthumously honored with a star on the Philippine Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Boots Plata (August 17, 1943 Quezon City-November 2, 2011 Taguig) also known as Manuel Guevarra, Jr. or Butse was a Filipino film director, actor and screenwriter. He had two children, Jaypee Guevarra and Anes Guevarra.
Plata began his career in the film industry as a writer for the movie "Big Boy" in 1965. He continued to pursue scriptwriting, and in 1973, he made his directorial debut with the film "Career." Plata was known for his works in action and drama genres and was a prolific filmmaker, having directed over 100 movies during his career. Some of his notable films include "Biktima," "Ako ang Huhusga," and "Sgt. Clarin: Bala para sa Galit." Plata also acted in several movies, including "Sa Hirap at Ginhawa," "Ang Boyfriend Kong Baduy," and "Kasalanan ang Buhayin Ka." He passed away in 2011 at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy in the Philippine film industry.
Boots Plata was born on August 17, 1943, in Quezon City, Philippines. He started his career in the film industry as a writer of popular films in the 1960s. Plata was the youngest contract artist of Sampaguita Pictures at that time. He had a breakthrough when he won an award for Best Story for his work in "Mga Anghel na Walang Langit," a blockbuster movie from the late 1990s. He was also nominated for the Best Director award at the 1991 FAMAS Awards for his work in "Ako Ang Huhusga." In addition to his film work, Plata also worked in television, involved in shows such as "Magandang Gabi, Bayan." He earned a lifetime achievement award from the Film Academy of the Philippines in 2010, just a year before his death. Plata was known for his contributions to the "Manila" action film genre, characterized by themes of violence and corruption set in urban landscapes. Today, he is remembered for his significant contributions to Philippine cinema.
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Pacita del Río (September 23, 1921 Manila-November 13, 1989 San Diego) a.k.a. Pacita del Rio was a Filipino actor. Her child is called Bernard Johnson.
Pacita del Río was not just an actor, she was also a singer and dancer known for her versatility in the entertainment industry. She started her career as a child actress in the 1930s and went on to become one of the most sought-after leading ladies in Philippine cinema during the 1950s and 1960s.
Aside from her success in the entertainment business, Pacita del Río was also an accomplished businesswoman. She owned and managed several successful ventures including a chain of beauty salons and a film distribution company.
In 1981, she retired from show business and migrated to the United States where she continued to thrive as an entrepreneur. She was also instrumental in organizing Filipino-American cultural events in California.
Pacita del Río passed away on November 13, 1989, in San Diego, California at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy as an accomplished actress and enterprising woman.
Later in her life, Pacita del Río became involved in philanthropic work, particularly in helping underprivileged children in the Philippines. She founded the Pacita del Rio Scholarship Program, which provides financial assistance to deserving students who are interested in pursuing careers in the arts. Her dedication to helping others earned her numerous awards, including the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Award in 1983 and the prestigious Ten Outstanding Manilans award in 1985.
Pacita del Río's contributions to Philippine cinema and entertainment have not been forgotten. In 1995, she was posthumously inducted into the FAMAS Awards Hall of Fame for her outstanding contributions to Philippine cinema. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of Filipinos, both in the entertainment industry and in entrepreneurship.
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