Actor-singer and stage performer Victor “Cocoy” Laurel has passed away. He was 72 years old. The news was confirmed by his family on Facebook, indicating he died on Saturday, June 14.

Victor “Cocoy” Laurel PHOTO FROM FACEBOOK/CELIADIAZLAUREL Victor “Cocoy” Laurel PHOTO FROM FACEBOOK/CELIADIAZLAUREL

 

“It is with deep affection and grateful faith that we entrust our dear brother. Victor into the hands of our almighty Lord. GOD. Creator and Savior. He worshipped God and praised Him through his music and artistry and blessed others so generously,” the official statement read.

“Rest in peace, beloved brother. mentor, maestro and friend. We are Incredibly grateful for you. Thank you for all you’ve done for us. You will always have a special place in our hearts,” it added.

The cause of death and funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Born into one of the Philippines’ most prominent political and artistic families, Laurel was the son of the late former Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel and acclaimed actress and painter Celia Diaz Laurel.

While both of his parents have passed on, the family announced his death on Monday through Celia Diaz Laurel’s Facebook account, which now likely serves as a family-managed page.

At just eight years old, Cocoy was named “Romeo of the Philippines” in a 1969 talent search inspired by Romeo and Juliet. By the 1970s, he had become a bonafide teen idol, starring opposite Nora Aunor in “Lollipops and Roses” (1971) and “Impossible Dream” (1973).

But Laurel’s true home was the stage. Trained by Repertory Philippines, he became a mainstay of the local theater scene, headlining classic productions like “Evita,” “The Elephant Man,” “Guys and Dolls,” and “Les Misérables.”

He studied acting in New York, painting in Madrid, and music at Juilliard — earning a diploma presented by Helen Hayes herself. In 1989, he joined the original West End cast of “Miss Saigon” in London and later portrayed The Engineer in its Australian run, a role he performed in more than 450 shows.

He also recorded a Spanish-language album, “Te Quiero,” and performed in live concerts, including a notable collaboration with National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.

In 1996, he returned to the Philippines to play national hero José Rizal during the centennial celebration at Luneta.

Before his passing, Laurel was among those who paid respects at Aunor’s wake in April 2025.