David Licauco in Mourning: Actor Breaks Down Over Grandfather’s Death—Heart-Wrenching Tribute Stuns Fans Nationwide

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — In a deeply emotional revelation that has shattered hearts across the country, Kapuso heartthrob David Licauco has confirmed the death of his beloved grandfather, a man he often referred to as his “second father.” The actor, known for his composed demeanor and calm public image, took to social media to share the painful news, and what fans witnessed was a side of David they had never seen before—utterly broken, grieving, and vulnerable.

“My Lolo is Gone…”

On May 22, just past midnight, David posted a black-and-white photo of him holding the frail hand of his grandfather on Instagram. The caption read simply:

“Rest now, Lolo. I will carry your lessons with me forever. Mahal na mahal kita.”

Within minutes, the post flooded with hundreds of thousands of reactions, with fans, celebrities, and industry insiders expressing shock and extending condolences. Among the comments were messages from fellow stars like Barbie Forteza, Julie Anne San Jose, and Dennis Trillo—all offering love and support to the visibly shaken actor.

But it was David’s subsequent Instagram story that truly tore at his fans’ hearts: a short clip showing him sitting alone at the hospital hallway, eyes red from crying, whispering, “Hindi ko pa rin matanggap…” (I still can’t accept it).

A Devastating Blow to the Star

According to close sources, David’s grandfather—whom he lovingly called Lolo Tony—had been in and out of the hospital for the past few months due to complications related to old age. Though the family kept things private, David was reportedly by his grandfather’s side every chance he could get, even amid his hectic taping schedules and endorsements.

A family insider revealed, “He was extremely close to his lolo. Ever since David was a child, Lolo Tony was his role model. He taught him discipline, humility, and the importance of hard work. This loss has hit him like a tidal wave.”

Fans and Celebrities Rally Behind David

As the tragic news spread, fans quickly rallied around David, creating tribute videos, digital artworks, and heartfelt tweets using the hashtag #StayStrongDavid, which trended number 1 on X (formerly Twitter) for more than 12 hours.

One viral post read:

“We always see David smiling and strong. Today, we stand with him in his pain. Our hearts go out to you, idol.”

Even brands that David endorses temporarily paused promotional content in respect of his loss, with many of them posting condolences on their official accounts.

A Tribute Beyond Words

In an emotional eulogy delivered during the wake, David shared stories of how his grandfather would wake up early just to cook breakfast for the family, sneak snacks into his school bag, and cheer the loudest during his earliest acting gigs.

“There would be no David Licauco without Lolo Tony,” the actor said, holding back tears. “He was my silent cheerleader, my greatest protector, and my forever hero.”

The entire church fell silent as David, holding a photo of his grandfather, whispered a final farewell:

“Thank you for everything, Lolo. This is not goodbye, just see you later.”

A Moment of Reflection

Fans and netizens have praised David for being raw and real during such a vulnerable time. In a world where celebrities often wear masks of perfection, David’s openness about grief has sparked meaningful conversations online about loss, family, and mental health.

Psychologists even commended the actor for “modeling healthy mourning,” saying that his emotional transparency can inspire more Filipinos—especially men—to openly grieve and process pain.

What’s Next for David?

For now, David Licauco is taking a short hiatus from work. His management has confirmed that all upcoming events, shoots, and appearances are on hold while he spends time with his family.

“David will return,” his manager said in a statement. “But for now, he needs time to heal. He thanks everyone for the love.”

As tributes continue to pour in and fans light candles in memory of the man who helped shape one of today’s most beloved actors, one thing is certain: the legacy of Lolo Tony lives on—not just in David’s heart, but in every Filipino who believes in the power of family.

Rest in peace, Lolo Tony. The whole nation mourns with you, David. 💔

 

Labis ang Hinagpis ng Buong Eat Bulaga Family! Dabarkads, Nagluluksa sa Pagpanaw ng Isa sa Pinakamatagal Nilang Kasama — Mahigit 22 Taong Pagsasama, Tinapos ng Isang Masakit na Paalam…

Great Sorrow: Eat Bulaga Dabarkads Mourn the Loss of Beloved Member of Over 22 Years

A wave of grief has swept through the Eat Bulaga family and its loyal fanbase as the long-running noontime show’s cast and crew mourn the passing of one of their most cherished members — a beloved colleague who had been part of the program for more than 22 years.

The sad news was confirmed earlier today by TAPE Inc., the show’s production company, through an official statement posted on social media. Although the identity of the departed has not yet been disclosed publicly out of respect for the family’s wishes, insiders confirm that the individual was a long-time backstage crew member who had become a fixture behind the scenes and was deeply loved by the entire Dabarkads team.

A Heartbreaking Loss

 

“The entire Eat Bulaga family is in deep mourning. We lost not just a colleague, but a dear friend who stood by us through countless seasons, triumphs, and trials,” read the official statement. “He (or she) was more than just part of the staff — he was family.”

According to sources close to the show, the team was informed of the passing late last night. Many were reportedly devastated, especially those who had worked side by side with the departed for over two decades.

“It’s really painful,” said one long-time staff member in an emotional interview. “He was there before many of us joined. He taught us, laughed with us, helped us through the toughest production days. It’s hard to imagine the studio without him.”

Tributes from Dabarkads

 

Several of the program’s hosts and former cast members took to social media to express their sorrow and pay tribute.

Jose Manalo, one of the show’s longtime hosts, wrote, “Sobrang sakit sa puso. Isa kang haligi sa likod ng kamera. Maraming salamat sa lahat. Mahal ka namin.”

Pauleen Luna-Sotto posted a photo of the late team member with the caption, “Thank you for your years of service, friendship, and light. We will miss you dearly.”

Even former Dabarkads like Maine Mendoza and Wally Bayola, who are now pursuing other ventures, posted heartfelt messages, underscoring how deeply this person had touched the lives of those who passed through Eat Bulaga’s iconic halls.

More Than Just a Show

 

For decades, Eat Bulaga has been a household staple, not just because of its hosts and segments but because of the incredible work done by its crew — many of whom have dedicated their lives to the show. This particular loss reminds the public of the human side of television: the hard-working individuals behind the scenes who make live broadcasts possible every single day.

Fans have also joined in the mourning, flooding Eat Bulaga’s official pages with condolences. Many longtime viewers recall seeing glimpses of the crew during behind-the-scenes segments or anniversary specials.

“He may not have always been in front of the camera, but we all felt his presence. Our Saturdays and lunch breaks will never be the same again,” one fan commented.

A Legacy of Loyalty and Love

 

The late team member was known not just for his technical expertise but for his unwavering loyalty and cheerful spirit. Co-workers described him as dependable, kind-hearted, and a source of encouragement during stressful shoot days. Despite rarely being seen on screen, his impact on the show was undeniable.

“He was one of the first to arrive, and the last to leave. He had the biggest heart and the warmest smile,” another staff member shared tearfully.

Plans are underway for a special tribute episode to honor his memory. Sources say the Dabarkads want to dedicate a segment to celebrating his life and contributions, possibly airing this coming Saturday.

As Eat Bulaga continues to evolve in an ever-changing entertainment landscape, the legacy of its people — both in front of and behind the camera — remains its strongest foundation. And today, the show pauses not just to entertain, but to remember.

Rest in peace, Dabarkads. Your family will carry your memory in every laugh, every cue, and every heartfelt “Bawal ang Sad!” you helped bring to life.

LUMUHA ANG BUONG ‘IT’S SHOWTIME’! Biglaang PAG-ALIS ng Isa sa Kanila, NAGPAGULAT sa Lahat — TUNAY na Dahilan, NAKAKAKILABOT!

 

Isang emosyonal na eksena ang naganap kamakailan sa noontime show na It’s Showtime matapos ang hindi inaasahang pag-alis ng isa sa mga paboritong miyembro ng programa. Sa gitna ng tawanan at kasiyahan, biglang naging seryoso ang mood sa studio nang in-announce ang desisyon ng isa sa mga host na lumisan—at ang tunay na dahilan sa likod nito ay masalimuot, nakakakilabot, at labis na nakakaiyak.

😱 Ang Pag-alis na Walang Babala

Walang sinuman ang nakahanda para sa biglaan at live na anunsyo. Habang nagsasagawa ng closing segment ang buong cast, tumayo ang host na ito, namumugto ang mata at nanginginig ang tinig, at sinabing:

“Ito na po siguro ang tamang panahon para ako’y magpaalam…”

Nagulat ang lahat. Maging ang co-hosts gaya nina Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, at Vhong Navarro ay hindi agad nakapagsalita. Ramdam na ramdam sa studio ang tensyon at lungkot habang unti-unting lumuluha ang bawat isa.

💔 Behind-the-Scenes: Matagal na Palang Pinag-iisipan

Ayon sa isang source na malapit sa production team ng It’s Showtime, matagal nang nagkakaroon ng matinding emotional stress ang host na ito. Hindi umano ito simpleng career move lang—may mas malalim na dahilan sa likod ng kanyang desisyon.

“Nakaranas siya ng anxiety at burnout. Lahat akala masaya lang sa harap ng camera, pero hindi nila alam na halos gabi-gabi na siyang umiiyak sa bahay,” ayon sa insider.

Bukod pa rito, may mga bulung-bulungan na nagkaroon daw ng hindi pagkakaunawaan sa pagitan niya at ng ilang miyembro ng team—mga tensyon na hindi na naayos kahit sa mga off-cam meetings.

🧿 May Kinalaman ba ang Pamahiin at Masasamang Panaginip?

Ang lalong nakakakilabot? May ilang fans ang nagsabi sa social media na ilang araw bago ang biglaang pag-alis, napapansin na nilang tila “wala sa sarili” ang host. May isa pang insider na nagsabing:

“May mga panaginip daw siyang inuulit-ulit—madilim, may mga boses, at palaging may paalam. May nararamdaman daw siyang ‘masama’ pero hindi niya masabi kung ano.”

May ilang netizens na nagsabing baka ito ay babala o masamang pahiwatig. Dahil dito, may mga haka-haka na baka may spiritual o psychic reason sa likod ng biglaang pamamaalam.

😭 Vice Ganda, Hindi Na Napigilan ang Luha

Isa sa pinaka-emosyonal na reaksyon ay galing mismo kay Vice Ganda, na halos hindi makapagsalita sa gitna ng live segment.

“Ang hirap tanggapin… pero naiintindihan ko,” bulalas niya, habang yakap-yakap ang host na aalis. “Hindi madali ang ginagawa natin araw-araw, pero mas hindi madaling mawala ang isang taong minahal na namin parang kapamilya.”

Anne Curtis, na kilalang close rin sa nasabing host, ay tahimik lang at nakitang nakayuko habang umiiyak. Sa gitna ng tensyon, naging isang tahimik na sandali ng pagninilay ang programa—isang bihirang pangyayari sa isang masayahing show.

🧩 Sino nga ba ang Aalis?

Bagama’t hindi pa opisyal na pinapangalanan sa media, maraming netizens ang may hula kung sino ang host na ito. Trending ngayon sa X (Twitter) ang hashtags:
#ShowtimeGoodbye, #WeWillMissYou, at #SalamatSaLahat.

May ilan ang nagsabing baka si Jugs Jugueta, dahil matagal na rin umano itong tahimik sa ilang episodes. May nagsabi rin na baka si Karylle, na ilang beses nang nababalitang may bagong proyekto sa ibang istasyon. Ngunit hanggang ngayon ay wala pang kumpirmasyon mula sa management.

📢 ABS-CBN Management, Nagsalita Na

Sa isang maikling pahayag ng ABS-CBN, sinabi ng network:

“Ang bawat miyembro ng It’s Showtime ay mahalaga sa amin. Respeto ang ibinibigay namin sa kanilang mga desisyon, lalo na kung ito’y para sa kanilang personal na kaligayahan at mental health. Ang aming suporta ay buong-buo.”

💬 Mga Reaksyon ng Netizens: “Parang Nawala ang Isang Pamilya”

Hindi rin nagpahuli ang mga netizens sa pagbuhos ng damdamin. Narito ang ilang trending comments online:

“Grabe, hindi ko kinaya yung iyak ni Vice. Ramdam mo talaga na may bigat ang nangyari.”
“Bakit parang may hindi sinasabi? May deeper reason to, for sure.”
“Hindi ko akalaing iiyak ako dahil lang sa isang TV show, pero parang nawalan talaga tayo ng isang pamilya.”

✨ Magbabalik pa ba siya?

Bagama’t hindi isinasara ng host ang pinto sa muling pagbabalik, sinabi niyang kailangan muna niya ng pahinga. Walang kasiguraduhan kung kailan siya babalik—o kung babalik pa ba talaga.

“Paalam muna, pero hindi pa ‘to ang huling kwento ko. Kapag handa na ako, magpapaalala ako kung gaano ko kayo kamahal,” ang kanyang huling salita.

🙏 Isang Paalam na May Puno ng Luha, Pagmamahal, at Misteryo

Ang pag-alis ng host na ito ay nag-iwan ng marka hindi lamang sa kanyang mga kasamahan kundi pati na rin sa milyun-milyong Pilipinong sumusubaybay araw-araw. Isa itong paalala na kahit sa likod ng ngiti, may mga kwento tayong hindi agad nakikita.

At sa It’s Showtime, hindi lang aliwan ang dala—kundi puso.