Manila, Philippines — An emotional scene unfolded at the private wake of Luis Manzano’s late family member, as two of the country’s biggest TV personalities — Alex Gonzaga and Vice Ganda — were seen in deep grief and sorrow, embracing the family and friends of the actor-host.

Luis Manzano, known for his wit, charm, and vibrant energy in the entertainment industry, has long been considered a pillar of Philippine television. His circle of close friends includes not only co-stars but also real-life confidantes like Alex and Vice, who both arrived quietly yet emotionally shaken.

A Moment of Silence Broken by Sobs

Witnesses at the wake described how the room grew still as Alex Gonzaga arrived, holding back tears as she hugged Luis’ mother, Congresswoman Vilma Santos. Wearing a simple black dress and no makeup, the normally bubbly actress was a picture of silent devastation.

“I didn’t think the last time we laughed together would be… the last time,” Alex whispered to Vilma, according to one family friend.

Alex and Luis, both known for their infectious humor and social media antics, had worked together on numerous shows and projects. Their bond was more than just for the cameras — it was a sibling-like relationship built over years of shared laughter and emotional support.

Vice Ganda Breaks Down: “Luis Was Light in the Darkness”

Vice Ganda, comedian and “It’s Showtime” host, arrived later in the evening and could not hold back tears upon seeing Luis’ framed photo surrounded by white roses.

“He was my sunshine in some of my darkest days. Losing him feels like a piece of my heart was taken,” Vice said during a short, heartfelt speech.

Vice described Luis as someone who always carried joy wherever he went — even when facing his own struggles. The two were frequent collaborators and had developed a deep friendship that extended far beyond the confines of the TV studio.

Showbiz Comes Together in Mourning

Several celebrities were also seen at the wake, including Anne Curtis, Angel Locsin, Toni Gonzaga, Ogie Alcasid, and Piolo Pascual, all offering quiet condolences to the Manzano family. Social media flooded with tributes and throwback photos, using hashtags like #RestInPeaceLuis, #LuisForever, and #OneOfAKind.

One tweet read:

“Luis was the kind of person who made you feel important even in a room full of stars. His presence will be sorely missed.”

Another fan posted a video montage of Luis’s best TV moments, captioning: “The host with the golden heart. You made us laugh, cry, and feel seen.”

A Final Message of Love and Gratitude

Before leaving the wake, Alex Gonzaga posted a short message on her Instagram story, showing a candle lit in front of Luis’s photo:

“Thank you for the memories, the friendship, and the joy. You were one of the real ones. Mahal na mahal kita, bro.”

Vice Ganda also posted a black-and-white photo of him and Luis laughing backstage, writing:

“This world is darker without you in it. But I’ll keep your laughter alive in every punchline, in every story. Rest well, Luis.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Luis Manzano may be gone, but his legacy in the entertainment world — and the hearts of those he touched — will endure. The outpouring of grief from stars and fans alike is a testament to the impact he had on the people around him. His story reminds us to cherish the moments, embrace the people who lift us, and to never take time for granted.

As the lights dim and tears fall, one thing remains clear: Luis Manzano will never be forgotten

Vice Ganda on bed scene with Luis Manzano: “You thought Luis was on top of me in just a brief.”
Toni Gonzaga says that she felt weird while kissing Vice Ganda for this comedy film.
This Guy’s In Love With You Mare is a unique and quirky film starring Toni Gonzaga, Luis Manzano and Vice Ganda. It is set to be released in theaters this October 10. Co-produced by Star Cinema and Viva Films, this unique comedy is directed by Wenn Deramas.

The three stars, Toni, Luis and Vice, got into a heated argument with the press during the recent press conference of the said film held at ABS-CBN’s Dolphy Theater recently. They discussed the unique story of the film where Vice Ganda pretended to be a man and tried to make Toni’s character fall in love with him. One of the most talked about scenes in the film is the kissing scene between Vice Ganda and Toni.

Director Wenn’s story: “This Guy’s In Love With You, Mare is about three people who are all searching for their place in this world. Vice as Lester, is a heartless woman whose entire life is centered on the man she loves the most, Mike, and Luis, who is looking for a normal life with a wife and children. Toni as Gemma, is at a point in her life where she wants to get married so the timing is perfect for her and Mike. What she doesn’t know is that her boyfriend has a dark secret.”

Even before they started shooting the film, Luis said, he was excited to do it not only because of the unique love story it brings but also because of the friends he will be working with. “When they offered this project, of course I saw the cast and that was enough to get me excited,” he said. “Working with this cast, this unusual storyline, it’s something I’ll always treasure because it’s not everyday that an artist is offered such a unique kind of film.”

Also part of This Guy’s In Love With You Mare are Edgar Mortiz, Buboy Garovillo, Gladys Reyes, DJ Durano, Karla Estrada, Carla Martinez, and Ms. Tessie Tomas. Also in the movie are Jayson Gainza, Eagle Riggs, Ricky Rivero, IC Mendoza, Dang Cruz, Cecil Paz, Manuel Chua, Ricci Chan, Lassy, ​​Tess Antonio, and Edward Mendez. How did you feel when Vice Ganda kissed you?

Toni: “It was different! It was different from everyone else. I don’t do kissing scenes, right? Only John Lloyd [Cruz] in My Amnesia Girl, but I feel like I want to go back to the ‘no kissing scene’ policy.”