In a truly heartbreaking turn of events, the entertainment industry is reeling from the sudden and devastating news—Ricky Davao, one of the most respected and beloved actors in Philippine showbiz, has passed away.

The news broke just moments ago, sending a wave of disbelief and grief across the country. Known for his iconic performances and decades-long contribution to film and television, Ricky’s unexpected passing has left both fans and fellow artists in shock.

While details surrounding his death are still developing, sources close to the family have confirmed that he passed away peacefully. Social media has erupted with messages of condolences and heartbreak, with hashtags like #RIPRickyDavao and #GoneTooSoon already trending.

“He was a true artist, a pillar in our industry. This is a huge loss,” said a fellow actor during a live interview.

Ricky Davao was admired not only for his acting but also for his quiet strength, humility, and wisdom. Many fans are now sharing clips of his memorable roles, honoring a man who gave so much of himself to his craft and his audience.

This is a developing story. More updates will be released as the family prepares to share official statements and details of memorial services

How Ricky Davao found his ‘silver lining’ in love
Now that Derek Ramsay has a newborn daughter with his wife, Ellen Adarna, I suddenly remember what he told me a few years ago.

I asked him if he prefers to have a baby boy or girl. His reply was: “Ellen wants a girl, but I want a boy even if I already have a son. I am wary of having a daughter because when she becomes a teen and starts posting her pictures in swimsuit on social media, I might have a lot of guys fight (laughs).

“I will be extra protective of my baby girl. With a son, I can let him explore, and I will just guide him.”

So, since Derek is already a girl dad, the future suitors of his daughter better brace themselves.

You mess with her, you mess with him. My heart goes out to Mareng Ai-Ai delas Alas after her unceremonious break-up with Gerald Sibayan. Their May-December affair defied all odds. On a lighter note, since both of us go for younger men, we used to tease each other, “Mare, you already know, osmosis is good for our complexion so the fountain of youth must flow.”

Hopefully, when Ai-Ai falls in love again, the fountain will no longer run dry.

In the spirit of Yuletide fun, Sue Ramirez and Dominic Roque should do their version of the famous Christmas carol and call it “I SUE DOMmy Kissing you Upclose.”

Since I’m a boomer who has millennial kids, I could totally relate to the musical, “Silver Lining Redux (SLR).”

Aside from an interesting retro look at the baby boomers and flower power era of the ’60s and ’70s, the new edition evolves with the backdrop of concerns of the millennials and Gen Z. Through all these challenges, a positive resolution is promised at the end. Catch the superb Filipino musical at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza this Nov. 15 to 17 (www.ticket2me.net). Its original songs are LSS-worthy.

It stars my good friend, Ricky Davao (who’s also the line producer), seasoned actors Jamie Wilson and Jake Macapagal, former “Miss Saigon” cast members, Raul Montesa and Gina Respall, plus a bevy of talented millennials.

“SLR” bridges the generation gap by showing that in order to see eye to eye, we must use our ears and hearts, as well:

Here’s my chat with Ricky:

What’s your takeaway from SLR?

“Doing SLR brought me to the past, made I reminisce about significant events in my younger years which molded me to where and what I am today. It also strengthened my belief that wherever you are, whatever situation you are in, good or bad, as long as you don’t stop looking and fighting to do good, you will always have a silver lining.”

What makes your relationship with your girlfriend, Malca, work?

“The first time we met, there was already a connection. I felt like I’ve known her for the longest time. Whenever we plan things, either from her or me, it’s always a go, no discussion needed. We had many ups and downs, still we managed to fix differences and always choose to be together.

“She has shown dedication, understanding and unconditional love for me in one of the lowest points in my life. I thank God for her. Malca is my ‘silver lining.’”

How do you handle it when millennial co-actors get starstruck with you?

“I see to it that I do my work well as always. At this point in my career, I enjoy sharing things I learned from the ‘masters’ who I worked with.”

How do you handle it when you work with a ham actor?

“In a diplomatic way, I share things with him/her, hoping they would understand and change their ways and inspire them to work harder and do better. I would tell them, you can get inspiration from your co-actors as well.”

Is it more fulfilling to perform on stage than in movies/TV because of instant gratification?

“Both. In theater, you have to give more time, discipline and more of yourself. It’s going back to basics, getting a tune-up, after doing films and teleseryes. It is a breath of fresh air while honing your craft again. It’s magical! Film and TV work is fulfilling depending on the material and the people you work with. Bottomline is, you have to give a truthful performance.”

Do you think that actors from theater are better than those who have no theater background because of the different kind of discipline that stage plays entail?

“Yes! Based on my personal experience, actors who come from theater are more equipped and disciplined to act in films and TV. Although, I’ve encountered great actors who have never done theater.