A senate resolution honoring the life and contribution to Philippine entertainment of the veteran actor and director Ricky Davao, were filed to express the upper chambers profound sympathy and condolences to the families.
In a press release on Monday, May 5, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada acknowledged Davao’s commitment to excellence significantly shaped the local entertainment landscape and Philippine cultural heritage.
"He was a true and dedicated multimedia artist who gave life to Filipino stories in mainstream and independent films, television and theater; and a daring talent who bravely took on unconventional roles and complex characters and themes," Estrada said in his Senate Resolution No. 1351.
Davao, whose real name was Frederick Charles Caballes Davao, died on May 1, 2025, at the age of 63 after a battle with cancer.
"The passing of Ricky Davao is a tragic loss to the entertainment industry and to the entire nation," the Senate resolution stated.
His decades-long career included over 130 films and numerous awards in film, television, and theater.
Davao began his career as a dancer then he later earned acclaim as a versatile actor, winning honors such as Best Actor at Cinemanila (1999) and Best Supporting Actor at festivals in the UK and ASEAN.
He was also recognized by Gawad Urian, FAMAS, Star Awards, and the Film Academy of the Philippines, and earned multiple Aliw Awards for theater and praise for his directorial work in local programs and dramas.
"His dedication to artistic excellence, groundbreaking performances, and remarkable versatility have cemented his place as one of the country's most distinguished entertainment figures," the resolution concluded.
The Senate also resolved to provide a copy of the resolution to Davao’s bereaved family as a tribute to his life and legacy.
