Ricky Davao Dies at 63 After Brave Battle with Cancer — A Legacy of Love, Art, and Heartache

Manila, Philippines — The entertainment world was left in mourning on May 1, 2025, when the beloved veteran actor Ricky Davao passed away at the age of 63. Known for his incredible acting talent, memorable roles in both television and film, and his unassuming charm, Ricky’s death has sent shockwaves through the country.

While official reports attributed his death to complications related to cancer, insiders suggest there was much more to the story. For years, Ricky had kept his battle with the disease a secret, leaving his fans and colleagues in the dark about his health struggles. His daughter, Ara Davao, confirmed the news of his passing, revealing that her father had “bravely faced complications related to cancer” until his last breath, surrounded by loved ones.

The Final Goodbye: A Nation Mourns

Ricky Davao was a fixture in the Philippine entertainment industry for over four decades. His journey as an actor was nothing short of legendary, with roles that spanned every genre, from drama to comedy, and everything in between. Whether he was portraying a heartbreaking father, a charming lover, or a gritty antagonist, Ricky’s performances never failed to leave an impact.

Despite the numerous accolades and awards that he had earned over the years, including Best Actor awards from prestigious bodies like the Gawad Urian, Cinemanila International Film Festival, and Star Awards for Movies, Ricky remained humble and unpretentious. His true legacy, however, extends far beyond the roles he portrayed on screen.

Ricky was first and foremost a family man. His daughter, Ara Davao, shared an emotional post on social media, confirming the heartbreaking news. In a statement, she revealed that her father had died peacefully, surrounded by his children and loved ones. Her words, full of sorrow yet gratitude, touched the hearts of all who knew Ricky.

“We are deeply grateful for your prayers, love, and kind messages during this difficult time. My father passed away after bravely facing complications related to cancer. We will forever cherish the memories of his love and strength,” Ara wrote.

The Hidden Struggle: Ricky Davao’s Battle with Cancer

Ricky’s cancer battle was kept out of the public eye, with few knowing the true extent of his condition. Last year, rumors began circulating about his deteriorating health, but Ricky himself remained silent, choosing to face his personal struggles away from the prying eyes of the media.

For Ricky, privacy was paramount. He didn’t want his illness to overshadow his work or disrupt the lives of his loved ones. In fact, even as he struggled with his health, Ricky continued to work tirelessly. His most recent projects included roles in hit TV shows like “The World Between Us” and the GMA fantasy drama “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre”. He had also wrapped up filming for “Sosyal Climbers”, a romantic comedy set to hit screens in the coming months.

“My father was always a fighter,” said Ara in a recent interview. “Even when he was in pain, he kept going. He didn’t want anyone to pity him. His passion for his craft never died, and that’s what we will always remember.”

An Icon Lost: A Life Dedicated to Art

Ricky Davao’s career spanned multiple generations. His breakthrough role came in the 1998 film Saranggola (The Kite), which earned him Best Actor awards from both the Gawad Urian and Cinemanila International Film Festival. He continued to captivate audiences with roles in unforgettable films like “Working Girls,” “Magnifico,” and “The Flor Contemplacion Story.”

Beyond his film career, Ricky was also a fixture on television. His appearances in popular shows like “Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK),” “Pangako Sa’yo,” and “Mula Sa Puso” were beloved by fans. He was one of the few actors who could seamlessly transition between big-screen drama and the everyday, relatable characters seen on television. His versatility and commitment to his craft made him a respected figure in the entertainment world.

Legacy Beyond the Screen: A Father, a Friend, a Mentor

While Ricky Davao will always be remembered for his exceptional talent, his most enduring legacy lies in the way he impacted the lives of those around him. He was known for his warmth, kindness, and generosity, not only to his fans but also to his colleagues in the industry.

Many of his co-stars have paid tribute to him since his death, recalling his positive influence on set and his guidance to younger actors.

“Ricky was like a father to me,” said one of his co-stars, Iza Calzado. “He was always there to lend a hand or offer advice. His presence was calming, and he made every scene better just by being in it. We will miss him terribly.”

Ricky was also a loving father. His children, including Ara, were always his top priority. Even as he faced health challenges, his devotion to them never wavered. Ara’s heartfelt words about her father’s last moments speak to the deep love he shared with his family.

“He passed away in peace, surrounded by all of us. He held our hands and told us he loved us,” Ara shared in an interview. “He didn’t want to leave, but he knew it was his time. He told us not to cry, that he was ready.”

His daughter’s words are a poignant reminder of the man Ricky was off-screen — a devoted father, a loving partner, and a friend to many.

Ricky’s Final Moments: A Quiet Departure

On the morning of May 1, 2025, Ricky Davao quietly passed away in his sleep at his home, leaving behind a void that will be felt for years to come. His death came as a shock to many, particularly in light of his recent public appearances and work commitments.

Despite the sadness, there was a sense of peace among his family. They were grateful that he had been able to spend his final moments with his loved ones, in a place that brought him comfort.

In a statement released by Viva Entertainment, the company that represented Ricky, the organization paid tribute to the actor’s contributions to the Philippine entertainment industry.

“Pahinga kana, Sir Ricky. You were a true icon, a friend to all, and a father to your children. Thank you for sharing your art with the world.”

Looking Back: A Career That Shaped a Nation

As the news of Ricky Davao’s death spreads across the country, the entertainment industry and the nation as a whole are left to mourn the loss of a man who shaped the way we experience storytelling. From his early days in cinema to his final roles on television, Ricky Davao touched the hearts of millions with his remarkable ability to bring characters to life in a way that few others could.

His career was a testament to his dedication to the craft. He was a true artist, constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of his abilities. His legacy, however, is not just in the roles he portrayed on screen. It’s in the lives he touched, the people he mentored, and the family he built.

Remembering Ricky Davao: A Final Tribute

As Ricky Davao is laid to rest, the world remembers a man who devoted his life to his art, his family, and his fans. His legacy will live on through his work, his children, and the countless lives he touched throughout his extraordinary career.

“We will always carry you in our hearts,” Ara Davao said in her final words about her father. “Thank you for everything, Dad. You were more than a legend — you were our hero.”

Ricky Davao’s passing is a loss that cannot be measured in awards or accolades, but in the love and admiration of those who knew him. He may be gone, but his spirit, his artistry, and his heart will live on forever.