(From left) Janno Gibbs, Ronaldo Valdez. Image: Instagram/@jannolategibbs
Janno Gibbs confirmed the death of his father, Ronaldo Valdez, also known as Ronald James Dulaca Gibbs in real life, although he has yet to confirm the cause of the latter’s death.
On Monday, Dec. 18, Gibbs asked his father’s supporters to “respect [their] privacy in this grieving moment” through a brief statement on his Instagram account.
“It is with great sorrow that I confirm my father’s passing. The family would like to request that you respect our privacy in our grieving moment. Your prayers and condolences are much appreciated,” said Gibbs.
Gibbs’ post was filled with supportive messages from fellow celebrities including Aiko Melendez, Vina Morales, Jerald Napoles, and Rocco Nacino, as seen in the comments.
Images: Screengrab from Instagram/@jannolategibbs
On November 26, Gibbs also posted on Instagram to greet his father a happy birthday. The photos he attached were an image of their upcoming film together which will be shown in January 2024.
“Happy birthday, Papa! What a joy to share the screen with you. And such a priviledge to have directed you. We had fun, didn’t we?! Labyu,” said Gibbs. Valdez replied saying he is proud of his son.
Valdez died in the afternoon of Sunday, Dec. 18 in his home, according to the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on the same day.
He is survived by his wife Maria Fe Ilagan Gibbs and his children, Gibbs, and former actress Melissa Gibbs.
Details of Valdez’s wake have yet to be announced by his family.
The veteran actor, who has been receiving tributes from his talent manager Jamela Santos and “2 Good 2 Be True” co-star Kathryn Bernardo, is known as one of the most prolific actors in the country with a career that spanned nearly five decades.
Aside from “2 Good 2 Be True,” among his most popular works to date are “Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Los Bastardos,” and “Seven Sundays.”