Ricky Davao dies at 63: a heartbreaking loss for Philippine entertainment
The Philippine entertainment industry has dimmed its lights today, as one of its brightest, most versatile stars takes his final bow. Ricky Davao, the beloved actor-director with the gentle eyes but commanding presence, passed away at 63. Viva Entertainment confirmed the news, and while the nation grieves, we also remember the man who brought gravitas, grit, and grace to every role he took on, whether on screen or behind the scenes.
Born Frederick Charles Caballes Davao on May 30, 1961, Ricky wasn’t just another showbiz nepo baby riding on his father’s name, though yes, he is the son of the late, legendary Charlie Davao. He carved out his legacy, no shortcuts, no gimmicks. He started not as an actor, mind you, but as a dancer with the Vicor Crowd (who remembers that era of disco pants and pointed shoes?). From dancing to dramas, Davao evolved into one of the most reliable character actors in the country.
His range? Unmatched. Who else could play a fictionalized Bongbong Marcos in a bold political play in the ’80s (Bongbong at Kris, remember that?) and then morph into the prime villain in Mula sa Puso, scaring teleserye fans out of their seats? Only Ricky Davao.
Ricky Davao is not just an actor but also a director
But he wasn’t just content with emoting in front of the camera, he commanded it too. As a television director, he brought stories to life with vision and restraint, something only someone with his experience and empathy could do. He even served as a juror at the ASEAN International Film Festival Awards back in 2013, because when it comes to taste and talent, he had both in excess.
Off-screen, Ricky Davao was known for being fiercely private but deeply committed to those he loved. He earned a degree in industrial management engineering (yes, a brainy heartthrob!) from Mapua Institute of Technology. He was once married to actress Jackie Lou Blanco, and together they had three children, Arabella, Rikki Mae, and Kenneth. Though the marriage ended, the friendship stayed, proof that yes, co-parenting can be civil and classy.
In 2021, he found love again with Malca, his non-showbiz partner whom he affectionately called his “silver lining.” In a world of scandals and tabloid headlines, Ricky’s love life was refreshingly low-key, but no less full of love.
Fans are still reeling from the news, especially since Davao was reportedly battling a terminal illness quietly since 2024. Yet he kept working, smiling, and living, just like the true performer he was. His death also comes on the heels of another huge loss, his former mother-in-law, the iconic Pilita Corrales, who passed away last April. It seems the heavens are assembling a star-studded cast of Filipino legends this year.
As we wait for the official details of his funeral, tributes have been pouring in from co-stars, directors, and fans who all have one thing in common: deep admiration and respect for Ricky Davao. Whether you knew him as the strict TV dad, the scheming politician, or the misunderstood lover, there’s no denying, Ricky Davao was a class act.
He may have taken his final bow, but the curtain never really falls on a legend. Ricky Davao lives on in every scene, every performance, every Filipino heart he touched.
Salamat, Sir Ricky. Paalam, with love and standing ovation.
Image/s: Rickyad/Instagram
