MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines' King of Comedy, Dolphy (aka Rodolfo Vera Quizon, Sr.), 83, passed away July 10, 2012, confirms Dolphy's partner Zsa-Zsa Padilla.
His children Manny (Manny Boy), Salud (Sahlee), Rodolfo Jr. (Dolphy Jr.), Freddie (Baby), Edgar, and Raul (Rolly) with Engracia (Gracia) Dominguez; Mariquita (Kaye), Carlos, Geraldino (Dino), and Edwin with Gloria Smith; Ronaldo (Ronnie), Enrico (Eric), Madonna (Dana), and Jeffrey (Epi) with Pamela Ponti; Rommel with Evangeline Tugalao; Vandolph with Alma Moreno; and Nicole and Zia with Zsazsa Padilla continue to celebrate his life with friends and fans.
Dolphy starred in more than 200 films in his 66-year career, starting with a 1946 movie at 19 years old with Fernando Poe Sr., "Dugo at Bayan 1 (I Remember Bataan)."
The '80s generation would remember him as John Puruntong of "John en Marsha," probably the most successful local comedy series in the history of Philippine TV. At least 8 film versions of the series were produced.
Today's generation saw him in various other roles -- an actor, a family man, an endorser of products and politicians. At one point when he was being egged to run for president, he told reporters in his characteristic self-depracating humor: "What if I win?"
Among the many roles he effectively portrayed, Dolphy was known for his notable portrayal of gay roles, whether comedy or drama. He starred in Facifica Falayfay (1969), Fefita Fofongay (Viuda de Falayfay) (1973) and Sarhento Fofongay, A…ewan (1974). His last gay role was as Walterina Markova, in the movie Makrova: Comfort Gay (2001). He played the same role with his sons Eric and Jeffrey Quizon, and all won the Prix de la Meilleure Interpretation in Brussels, Belgium for their portrayal.
His last film was Father Jejemon in 2010.
On his 80th birthday in July 25, 2008, a biographical book, Dolphy, Hindi Ko Ito Narating Mag-isa (Dolphy, I Didn't Get Here All By Myself) was launched by ABS-CBN. The book was completed by film director Bibeth Orteza, in the same period that the Dolphy Aid Para sa Pinoy Foundation, Inc., a non-profit and non-stock organization, was also being created.
He received 21 recognitions in his career, but the most recent and special is the Grand Collar of the Order of the Golden Heart, conferred to him by President Benigno Aquino III on November 2010. The award is the highest given to a private citizen by the President of the Philippines.
Via Rappler.com
