Manila, Philippines — Actor and heartthrob David Licauco is mourning a painful loss as he confirmed the passing of his beloved grandfather — a figure he described as one of the most important people in his life.

The 29-year-old actor, known for his calm demeanor and rising success in television and film, took to social media to share the heartbreaking news, accompanied by a heartfelt tribute and a candid black-and-white photo of him holding his grandfather’s hand.

“Today, I lost a piece of my heart. My lolo was more than just family — he was my mentor, my quiet strength, and my example of what a good man should be,” David wrote.

A Quiet Bond, A Loud Impact

Though David rarely speaks publicly about his private life, he has previously mentioned his close bond with his grandfather, who helped raise him and played a big role in shaping his values.

“He taught me the importance of patience, humility, and never letting success get to your head,” David once shared in a past interview.

His post immediately sparked an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike, all expressing their condolences and admiration for how David has carried himself with grace during this emotional time.

Celebrities and Fans Rally Behind David

Well-known personalities such as Barbie Forteza, Julie Anne San Jose, and Jak Roberto extended their sympathies:

“So sorry for your loss, Dave. Praying for strength for you and your family,” Barbie commented.

“May your lolo rest in peace. Sending love and prayers,” Julie Anne shared.

Fans also flooded his posts with messages like “He raised a wonderful man. Your lolo would be proud.” and “May his soul rest in peace. We’re with you, David.”

David Licauco: In Mourning, But Grateful

Despite the heavy grief, David expressed gratitude for having been blessed with many memories with his grandfather — from childhood stories to quiet afternoons bonding over food and old family traditions.

“I’ll carry everything you taught me, Lolo. I’ll try to live the rest of my life in a way that honors yours,” he said tearfully in his Instagram story.

He also urged fans to cherish their elders, adding:

“Time is short. Hug your grandparents. Listen to their stories. Be present.”

Moving Forward with Love and Memory

David has yet to confirm whether he will be taking a break from work to grieve, but his management said he is surrounded by close friends and family, focusing on healing and honoring his grandfather’s legacy.

As the actor continues to rise in showbiz, it is clear that his late grandfather’s influence will live on — in the values he upholds and the man he is becoming.

💐 Rest in peace to David Licauco’s beloved lolo.
🕯️ Gone, but never forgotten.

David Licauco mourns grandfather’s passing: ‘The wisest man I knew’
Kapuso actor David Licauco is mourning the passing of his grandfather, Jaime Licauco, a renowned parapsychologist and author.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, May 17, David shared his grief while remembering the late grandfather’s goodness and wisdom.

“The wisest man I knew—always chasing greatness, always sharing his wisdom,” he began in the caption, along with several photos of them together.

He added, “Thank you for the life talks, the lessons, the power of your mind. I’ll hold them close, always. Rest easy, Lolo.”

As many know, Grandpa Jaime is a recognized expert in the field of parapsychology and metaphysics.

Over the course of more than two decades, he has written 17 bestselling books and various articles on issues related to the mind, spirituality, and strange experiences.

Before his passing, he was also a columnist for the Daily Tribute newspaper.

Meanwhile, David’s career in television continues to flourish.

He rose to fame thanks to historical fantasy dramas such as “Maria Clara at Ibarra” and “Pulang Araw.”

He is also the current onscreen partner of Kapuso actress Barbie Forteza.

Most recently, David played Deacon Sam in the series “Samahan ng mga Makasalanan,” where he formed a church group with the aim of encouraging sinners to change their lives and return to faith.