The Philippine entertainment industry mourns the untimely demise of veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez, whose tragic death has raised awareness about mental health challenges.
The Quezon City Police District confirmed the 76-year-old actor’s apparent suicide at his New Manila residence.
Authorities discovered Valdez seated with a .45 Norinco pistol, suggesting suicide, yet confirmation awaits laboratory test results.
QCPD Director P/Brig. Gen. Red Maranan stated, “May inintay pa result ng lab exam from SOCO, before we can conclude.”
Valdez, known for his versatile performances spanning six decades, had been battling depression exacerbated by health challenges.
Sources revealed he underwent a prostate cancer operation in December 2022.
His son, Janno Gibbs, confirmed the news on social media, requesting privacy during the family’s grieving moment.
Janno Gibbs shared, “It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father’s passing. Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated.”
Valdez, born on November 27, 1946, leaves behind a remarkable legacy in Philippine cinema and television.
His final project, ABS-CBN’s “2 Good 2 Be True,” showcased his enduring talent.
While Valdez’s death shines a light on mental health issues in the entertainment industry, broader concerns about suicide in the Philippines persist.
Recent data from the Department of Education reveals 404 public school learners took their lives in 2021, highlighting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ mental health.
In the Cordillera region, suicide cases have surged in the last five years, with 836 recorded cases from 2018 to 2021.
Benguet province tops the list, prompting the Department of Health to allocate funds for mental health interventions.
As the nation grapples with these alarming trends, the tragic loss of Ronaldo Valdez serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for mental health awareness and support in the Philippines.
The Daily Netizen 