Remembering John Regala: A Colorful Life Cut Short in Philippine Cinema

 

Photo by: https://www.youtube.com/@ThatsShowbizOfficial

On Saturday morning, June 3, 2023, John Regala, a well-known actor known for his colorful and eventful life, passed suddenly at age 55. His illness-related difficulties led to a heart arrest, which is what ultimately killed him. He passed away in New Era Hospital, leaving a lasting impression on the Philippine entertainment scene.

The actor John Regala passed away, according to his nephew Nene Lour Billones Bendijo, who spoke to the Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP.ph). Nene described the actor's final moments, saying, "Actually, yesterday, June 2, he gave in, but after a few minutes, he came back to life. The doctor said, 'He won't last long, your uncle will eventually be gone.'"

Nene expressed sympathy, saying, "Uncle John was also pitiable. He seemed to be in pain. He had been in and out of the hospital, and he hasn't been able to speak for a long time. When you talk to him, he just nods his head. He was admitted to the hospital in March, then again in April and May." It was clear that John had been suffering.

"Actually po, kahapon, June 2, bumigay na siya tapos ilang minutes, bumalik o nabuhay siya uli.

"Sabi ng doktor, 'Wala na talaga kaya hindi magtatagal, mawawala rin si Tito niyo,'"

John Regala, who is survived by two kids, also has an adoptive son who is now 30 years old and a child from his first marriage who now lives in the United States. Nene mentioned that preparations for the wake were ongoing and that further information would be released later.

John Regala, born on September 12, 1967, was an artist by birth. Former actors who have since passed away, Mel Francisco and Ruby Regala, were his parents. John's initial manager in showbiz was seasoned entertainment journalist Ronald Constantino. During his reminiscence of John's early career, Constantino recalled that his first movie, "Bagets Gang," was released in 1985 and that this led to his inclusion in the venerable program "That's Entertainment."

In 1994, John's performance in "The Fatima Buen Story" earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Gawad Urian Awards; the following year, he took home the prize at the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival for his outstanding work in "Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story."

Throughout his life, John Regala remained a controversial figure in Philippine cinema, with a complicated and eventful personal story. His experience in the entertainment sector and his battle with several difficulties won the hearts of many, leaving an everlasting impression on those who valued his talent.

Even when John Regala passes away, his contributions to the Philippine film industry will be recognized, and the characters he created for the screen will carry on his legacy. Peace be upon him.

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Originally posted at PEP.PH

Jojo Gabinete