MANILA, Philippines—Actor-director Jose Mari Avellana passed away on June 26. He was 70.
The son of two National Artists, Lamberto Avellana (for theater and film) and Daisy H. Avellana (for theater), Avellana began his career as a radio announcer in the 1960s, before moving to the theater and movies as an actor and director in the 1970s.
He appeared in international productions like “Bloodfist,” “Bloodfist 2,” “Saigon Commandos” and “Caged Fury,” among others.
He directed “Kung Mawawala Ka,” which won best picture in the Metro Manila Film Festival in 1993. He is also remembered for directing the acclaimed period film “Damong Ligaw” in 1997.
As an actor, his last films were the Cinemalaya entries “Colorum” (in 2009) and “Vox Populi” (in 2010).
The cause of his death was listed as splenic artery aneurysm.
Colleagues in the entertainment industry mourned his passing.
Leo Martinez, head of the Film Academy of the Philippines, told the Inquirer: “He was one of the best actors of our time. [The local plays] ‘Equus’ and ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ stand out as his acting masterpieces.”
Scriptwriter Bibeth Orteza, who penned “Kung Mawawala Ka,” recalled: “When you watched Jose Mari onstage, you not only remembered how he delivered his lines, you remembered his silent beats as well. He was that good.”
Boots Anson-Roa, head of the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (Mowelfund), said: “Between parents Bert and Daisy, Mari had no choice but to be outstanding himself as an actor and director. He had an untainted record in theater and films.”
Niece Ina Avellana Cosio said: “He was not only my uncle, but my godfather, too. He is resting now.”
Cremation was set on Monday but the wake will continue at Arlington Homes Chapel until Wednesday. Interment is at the Sacred Heart Parish in Makati on Thursday.
He is survived by his wife, four children and seven grandchildren.
Wife Cora remembered him fondly: “A true gentleman, he was a magnificent artist, loving husband and perfect father. He was the best.”