Cecille Baun, PH cinema’s ‘Queen of Prosthetics,’ dies at 89

Image: facebook/Cecille Baun

Cecille Baun, an award-winning makeup expert dubbed as Philippine cinema’s “Queen of Prosthetics,” died on Monday, March 11, at the age of 89.

Baun’s death was confirmed by her grandchild Gary Paolo Valdez through a Facebook post on Tuesday, March 12.

“She passed away on March 11, 2024 6:37 a.m. surrounded by her loved ones,” the announcement read. “Mommy Cecille was also known as one of the best prosthetic artist during her time—leaving a great legacy.”

“She lived an extraordinary life filled with adventure, laughter, and love,” it added.

While no further details on the cause of death were immediately given, Valdez shared details on the wake which will be held at St. Peter Memorial Chapels Commonwealth Avenue (RM 301) on March 13 to March 16.

Baun’s expertise in makeup and prosthetics can be seen in several films including “Darna” (1991), “Sa Aking Mga Kamay” (1996), and the 2005 TV series “Encantadia.”

She also had projects in Hollywood such as the 1986 film “Platoon” and the 1987 movie “Hamburger Hill,” which were both filmed in the Philippines.

Baun, who is considered as one of the country’s pioneers in the field of prosthetics, received the award as Philippine cinema’s “Queen of Prosthetics” during the first Quezon City International Film Festival in 2014. She was given the Quezon City Cinema Lifetime Achievement Award in the same year.