Veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez, who celebrated his 77th birthday on November 27, passed away on Sunday, December 17, according to the confirmation by the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).
The actor’s passing was shared with the public by his son, singer-actor Janno Gibbs, via Instagram on Monday, along with a request for privacy during this grieving period.
“It is with great sorrow that I confirm my feather’s passing. The family would like to request that you respect our privacy in our grieving moment. Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated,” Janno Gibbs wrote on Instagram.
Ronaldo Valdez, discovered by the late Douglas Quijano in the mid-’60s, began his acting career at 18 in “Rosang Tattoo” (1965). He gained prominence in 1966 as the leading man opposite Susan Roces in “Pepe en Pilar,” becoming a favored leading man for actresses like Susan and Boots Anson Roa.
He was also paired with Vilma Santos in “Karma” and with Nora Aunor in “Fes, Esperanza, Caridad” where he was directed by his father-in-law, National Artist Gerardo de Leon, who also directed him in “Lilet” starring Celia Rodriguez.
He married de Leon’s younger daughter Fe or Baby in 1968 and their son, Janno Gibbs was born in 1969, followed by their daughter Melissa in 1972. He was a favorite of Danny Zialcita who starred him in films like “Lalakwe,” “Si Malakas, Si Maganda at si Mahinhin” and “Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan.”
He scored a grand slam in 1993 when he won all the best supporting actor trophies from all local awards-giving bodies for his heartwarming performance as Aiko Melendez’ loving dad in Joey Reyes’ “May Minamahal.”
His last great lead role was in “Seven Sundays” where he played the dad of Aga Muhlach and Dingdong Dantes. His very last movie was “Ikaw at Ako,” which was just shown in theaters last week. In its press con, only his leading lady Boots Anson Roa-Rodrigo was present and she said Ronaldo was feeling indisposed.
He got to work with all the top directors of his time, like Ishmael Bernal in “Pagdating sa Dulo”, Eddie Romero in “Mad Doctor of Blood Island” (which was released abroad), Lino Brocka in “Sa Kabila ng Lahat” and “Lumuha Pati mga Anghel,” Celso Ad. Castillo in “Virgin People.”
On television, he was a much sought-after contravida and father or grandfather in countless drama series like “Ang Probinsyano,” “Pasion de Amor,” “Los Bastardos,” “2 Good 2 Be True.”
Following news of his death, netizens and colleagues in the industry paid tribute to Valdez and expressed their condolences to the actor’s family.
“You will be missed. Rest in peace, my friend!” wrote Vilma Santos.
Singer Gary Valenciano wrote on Instagram: “You were one person who I loved to watch.
Your authenticity never failed to move me. Thank you, sir Ronaldo Valdez. I never had a chance to work much with you but in those few moments I spent talking with you, it made me feel blessed to know that I got to meet someone like you.”
Because of his portrayal as Sebastian “Lolo Hugo” Agcaoili in “2 Good 2 Be True” and his commercial as Colonel Sanders for a fast-food chain, Valdez was also beloved by Gen Z, who lovingly referred to him as “Lolo Sir” on their social media posts.
Valdez is survived by his wife Cecil, children Janno and Melissa, and grandchildren.
The QCPD is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, emphasizing the importance of refraining from speculation and respecting the family’s privacy during this challenging time.
In a statement, the QCPD said it was extending its “heartfelt condolences” for the death of Valdez.
“As of today, QCPD is currently conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the cause of the death of Mr. James Gibbs, aka Ronaldo Valdez,” the QCPD said.
“We understand the importance of this matter; hence, we are working diligently to gather all relevant facts and evidence,” the QCPD also said.
The QCPD assured the public that “any findings from the investigation will be officially released.”
“We also urge the public to refrain from concluding and respect the family’s request to grieve in private,” the QCPD said. (With Victor Reyes)
