The world of pageantry has lost a prominent figure with the passing of Jose Delgado Patao Jr., beloved columnist for Malaya Business Insight. Jay passed away on June 11, 2024, a day shy of his 68th birthday. His family confirmed the news on June 12, paying tribute to a man whose impact transcended words.
“As we compose this post, we honor our late Uncle Jay, who joined our Creator yesterday.
Words wouldn’t be enough to express how much love we have for him. He [was] a great writer who left us with his remarkable articles and words. We know that Uncle Jay was notable to many, and we’re deeply saddened to have received this news. He will be missed and will never be forgotten.”
Jay began his illustrious career as a pageant chronicler in 1993 after serving in government and working abroad. Over the past three decades, he became an authority in the pageant community, admired not only for his encyclopedic knowledge of pageantry but also for his kind, warm demeanor. His insightful commentary and passion for the pageant world earned him a revered place in the hearts of many.
The news of his passing has left the pageant community and beyond in shock. Beauty queen and actress Joyce Burton Titular shared her heartfelt memories:
“I woke up to the saddest and most shocking news that my dear pageant Otaku, the one and only Jay Patao had passed away. During the 7 years I was active with my blog ‘Adventures of a Beauty Queen,’ I would run into him at the press events of beauty contests. And I would stay close to him because he made me feel welcome and was such a decent fellow. Plus, he was a well of pageant knowledge and information!!!
“Oh Jay, thank you for those times that you let me stick by your side like a remora, I really appreciated your company and your regard for me. Your loss is going to leave a huge void in our hearts… I will surely miss you and ALL the articles that you post. My FB feed will not be the same again ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ the thought is making me cry.
“I’m just so thankful that the last time I saw you at the Bb. Pilipinas coronation we took a few moments to hug each other and take selfies. You are truly one of the best guys in pageant coverage… I’m going to miss you, my friend. See you one day in the clouds… I love you.”
Jay’s friend, Japes a Nuevo, said, “The pageant world is a dimmer place now that you have left. Today would have been your birthday. Maybe God said it would be better for you to spend it with Him.”
Jay’s expertise in pageantry was matched only by his kindness. His presence at events, his detailed and passionate reporting, and his support for pageant participants will be deeply missed. His legacy, however, will live on through his articles and the memories he created with everyone he encountered.
Jay’s remains lie in state at the Athanasius Memorial Chapel in San Andres Bukid, Manila, and he will later be laid to rest at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque.
