What happened to Ricky Davao? Actress Ara confirms the cause of death as her father passed away at 63

Veteran Filipino actor-director Ricky Davao quietly died on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the age of 63, with his children and loved ones by his side. Viva Entertainment and his daughter, actress Ara Davao, said he battled stage four cancer valiantly till his death. His family and management communicated on social media the news of his death, along with thanks to supporters for their prayers and assistance.

Among Davao's four decades of achievements are award-winning performances, mentorship of younger artists, and contributions to film and television acknowledged by respected institutions such as FAMAS, Gawad Uri, and the Metro Manila Film Festival.

Ricky Davao passes away at the age of 63: more details

The death of Ricky Davao has caused a great deal of sorrow in the Philippine film industry. Davao's contributions shaped modern Filipino television and cinema. When word of Davao's death from cancer complications at the age of 63 circulated on May 2, 2025, colleagues, fans, and media all gathered together to honor him. His daughter Ara Davao verified the tragic news on social media; Viva Entertainment put out an official statement honoring his life and achievements.

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, the 63-year-old actor and director Ricky Davao passed away after a lengthy stage 4 cancer. According to his daughter Ara Davao,

"He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his children and loved ones."

Viva Entertainment first announced on social media after condolences to the bereaved family and appreciation of supporters.

Ara posts on Instagram to inform with great sadness of the passing of our beloved father, Ricky Davao. She wrote:

"Followed courageously the courageous battle he fought against cancer complications."

Among other notable Philippine award-giving bodies, Davao has garnered praise from Cinemalaya, FAMAS, Gawad-Urian, Luna Awards, and PMPC Star Awards as well as from the ASEAN International Film Festival & Awards.

Apart from his many honors for Best Supporting Actor from the EDDYS and Star Awards for Movies, he was inducted into the Aliw Awards Hall of Fame in 2008 for his work directing stage plays. Apart from his many EDDYS and Star Awards for Best Supporting Actor accolades, he was inducted into the Aliw Awards Hall of Fame in 2008 for his stage play directing.

Besides mentoring new filmmakers, Davao served on the jury of the first ASEAN International Film Festival & Awards, where he also influenced future stars of Filipino cinema. Away from the spotlight, he left a legacy as a friendly and supportive coworker whose commitment and quiet strength motivated others.

Ricky Davao's three children, namely Ara, Kenneth, and Rikki Mae, survived him after his 1989 marriage to actress Jackie Lou Blanco. After their divorce, the couple maintained close cooperation, helping one another's projects and dividing parenting duties for their children.

The Davao family is very appreciative of the great support they have had from colleagues and fans. Grieving and planning funerals, the Davao family has requested seclusion. Ricky Davao's death marks the end of a chapter in Philippine entertainment history.

Over his four-decade career, which featured both award-winning performances and the nurturing of future stars, he became one of the most respected figures in the industry. Though his loved ones mourn his early death, his movies, TV shows, and the many artists he influenced will live on forever. When information on his memorial service becomes available, the public will have a chance to honor a beloved actor, director, and mentor.

Divya Burman is a journalist at Primetimer 

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