OPM veteran Rico J. Puno has passed away at 65, his family confirms on October 30 (Tuesday).
The Filipino singer's sister-in-law and manager Anna Puno made the announcement on social media, writing, "I am seized with deep emotional shock when I found out that our OPM King - Kuya Rico J. Puno has passed away this morning (manila time)."
In a report by CNN Philippines, Puno died due to heart failure, following an event. "When he was in the hospital, they didn't let him go. He went straight to the ICU. He was revived at first, then he was okay. When everybody left, he had a heart failure. They were trying to revive him for the second time, but he didn't make it," Anna Puno tells CNN Philippines.
Known as the Total Entertainer, the legendary singer-songwriter made his mark with hits like 'Para Sa Masa,' 'The Way We Were,' and 'Magkasuyo Buong Gabi.'
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His legacy inspired many local artists, including Lea Salonga, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Ogie Alcasid, and Gary Valenciano, who have expressed their grief and condolences on the sudden passing of Puno. See their reactions below.
Lea Salonga took to Twitter to share her condolences to Puno and his family.
Rest In Peace, Rico J. Puno. Your distinctive voice that lent itself to so much of the music of my childhood will not be forgotten.
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) October 29, 2018
To Tito Rico’s family, my deepest condolences.
Zsa Zsa Padilla writes that she will always remember Puno's songs.
R.I.P. Rico Puno. 🙏Shocked to hear about your sudden passing. We will always remember your beautiful songs and your unique way of interpreting them.
— zsa zsa padilla (@zsazsapadilla) October 29, 2018
Gary Valenciano expresses his shock over the news.
Ogie Alcasid writes that Puno is the reason why he wanted to become a singer.
Janno Gibbs says good-bye to the King of Soul.
Dingdong Avanzado shares his tribute to Puno.
Watch Rico J. Puno perform 'Macho Gwapito" with his children:
Listen to his discography here:
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