One of the most admired comedians in Philippine cinema and one of the most respected actors in the local entertainment industry passed away last night. Dolphy died of pulmonary disease.
Philippine President Noynoy Aquino was quoted, “He changed not just his industry, but also the national consciousness. Through his art, he widened our outlook, he gave us the power to find and cherish happiness in our daily lives.”
The Daily Tatler describes him succinctly as Rodolfo Vera Quizon, Dolphy was widely regarded as the country’s “King of Comedy” in a career that spanned seven decades playing colourful comedic roles, from a cross-dressing homosexual to a poor jack of all trades.
Dolphy died after a five-year battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to his long-time partner, actress and singer Zsa Zsa Padilla (from ABS-CBN News). Which was surprising when only days ago it was reported on the news that he was responding well to treatment. I guess I should have figured after all his children came to care for him.
"We would like to inform the public that Mr. Rodolfo 'Dolphy' Quizon, passed away today, at 8:34 p.m. due to multiple organ failure, secondary to complications brought about by severe pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute renal failure," the Makati Medical Center said in a statement.
We are fortunate to have enjoyed the satirical laughter brought about by Dolphy. His disposition through life and his contribution to the local entertainment industry is a testament of how Filipinos are happy, resilient and just plain difficult to put down.
