Rest easy, Lolo Sir: Stars pay tribute to veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 18) — Local stars on Monday grieve the passing of veteran actor Ronald James Dulaca Gibbs, better known for stage name "Ronaldo Valdez," sharing fond memories of him on their social media accounts.
Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos-Recto offered her condolences and prayers to her former on-screen partner, posting an old photo of a scene they played in.
"You will be missed. Rest in Peace, my friend," the veteran actress said.[embed FB post]
Valdez and Santos-Recto starred in the 1981 film "Karma," an official entry in the 7th Metro Manila Film Festival. They also starred in films “Langis at Tubig” (1980) at “Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan?” (1982).
Award-winning actress Kathryn Bernardo was also among the first to post of Valdez's death on Instagram, posting multiple stories of the actor.
Bernardo worked alongside Valdez on hit romantic series "2 Good 2 Be True," where the late actor's portrayal of "Lolo Sir" captivated many viewers.
Singer-songwriter Gary Valenciano also expressed on IG his deep appreciation for Valez.
"You were the one person who I loved to watch. Your authenticity never failed to move me. Thank you sir Ronaldo Valdez," Valenciano said.
"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," he added.
Valdez' friend and colleague Dimples Romana recalled how the veteran star changed her life.
"May mga taong sadyang makakapagpabago ng pagtingin mo sa buhay. Tatatak sila sayo hanggang sa huli at kailanman ay hindi mo sila malilimot. Ikaw yun sa akin. At sa napakarami pa naming nagmamahal sayo Lo," she said.
[Translation: There are people who can change the way you look at life. They will make a mark until the end and you will never forget them. That's you to me. And there are so many of us who love you Lo]
Other stars such as Karla Estrada, Bella Padilla and talent manager Wilbert Tolentino also expressed their gratitude to the actor.
"Ronaldo Valdez" has been a trending topic on X (formerly Twitter) for the Philippines since Monday morning.
In the entertainment industry for at least 60 years, Valdez often portrayed father roles in various films and television shows, including Seven Sundays, Los Bastardos, and FPJ's Ang Probinsyano. He also starred in commercials for Kentucky Fried Chicken as the Filipino Colonel.
