Ricky Davao Cremated: Tears Flow on Final Night of Wake as Hundreds Pay Last Respects

Quezon City, Philippines – May 5, 2025 — The Philippine entertainment industry bid farewell to one of its most beloved icons as veteran actor and director Ricky Davao was cremated on Sunday, May 4. On the final night of his wake, the atmosphere was thick with emotion as an overwhelming number of mourners gathered to honor the life and legacy of the late star.

Held at his residence in Quezon City, the wake culminated in a solemn yet moving tribute, marked by heartfelt speeches, prayers, and shared memories. Tears flowed freely as family, friends, colleagues, and fans came together to celebrate the life of a man who spent over four decades bringing stories to life on stage and screen.

An Outpouring of Love

The final night of the wake, held on Saturday evening, was attended by an even larger crowd than previous days, with visitors arriving in waves to pay their last respects. The atmosphere was reverent but deeply emotional, as those present struggled to come to terms with the loss.

Some stayed quietly in the background, offering silent prayers and lighting candles. Others embraced each other, weeping openly. Many brought flowers and messages of love, some addressed to “Tito Ricky,” others to “Dad,” “Sir Rick,” or simply “Ricky.”

His daughter, actress Ara Davao, stood courageously at the side of the urn, accepting condolences and sharing memories with guests. In a brief speech, she said:
“Tonight is the last night we hold him physically close to us, but we know he lives on in our hearts. Thank you, Papa, for showing us what strength, passion, and kindness look like. You were everyone’s hero, but you were mine first.”

A Career That Defined Generations

Ricky Davao’s career began in the late 1970s and flourished across film, television, and theater. His ability to portray a wide range of characters — from complex anti-heroes to devoted fathers and fierce leaders — made him a household name. More than just a screen presence, he was a committed artist and mentor.

He won multiple acting awards, but those closest to him often said Ricky never cared for trophies. He cared about truth in storytelling and staying grounded. His legacy includes not only a vast body of work but also the many young actors he inspired and guided.

Final Tributes and Final Moments

Saturday evening’s wake featured a short mass, after which close family members and industry friends delivered their final tributes. Several actors shared personal stories — funny, touching, and inspiring — that painted a picture of a man who was not just talented, but generous, humble, and kind.

Director Laurice Guillen, a longtime collaborator, recalled:
“Ricky brought not just talent, but soul to every project. He was never just reading lines — he was living the role. Off-camera, he was just as powerful. He was thoughtful, wise, and always present for those he loved.”

Singer and actress Zsa Zsa Padilla performed a song in his honor, holding back tears during her rendition of “Hanggang Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan,” a track Ricky once said reminded him of his late parents.

Cremation and Private Farewell

On Sunday morning, May 4, Ricky Davao was quietly cremated in a private ceremony attended only by his immediate family and closest friends. In keeping with his wishes, the event was simple, solemn, and focused on prayer and reflection.

His ashes were placed in a wooden urn engraved with his name, birth and death dates, and a quote he once lived by:
“Do your work with passion. Live your life with grace.”

Plans are underway for a final memorial gathering and possibly a tribute concert organized by industry colleagues, details of which will be announced soon.

A Final Goodbye

The final night of Ricky Davao’s wake was not just an event — it was a moment in history for Philippine cinema. The sheer number of people who came, the emotion in every tribute, and the silence in the room as his final mass concluded spoke volumes about who Ricky was.

Outside the venue, a massive tarpaulin bearing his image read:
“Paalam, Ricky. Salamat sa lahat.”
(Goodbye, Ricky. Thank you for everything.)

Indeed, he gave the world much — unforgettable performances, laughter, tears, and inspiration. As his loved ones grieve, they do so with the knowledge that his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of millions.