The Philippine entertainment industry mourns the passing of Ricky Davao, a beloved actor and director whose career spanned over four decades. Ricky, born Frederick Charles Caballes Davao on May 30, 1961, passed away on May 1, 2025, at the age of 63, after bravely facing complications related to cancer. His daughter, Ara Davao, confirmed his passing, sharing that he was surrounded by his loved ones in his final moments
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ricky was born into a family of artists—his father, Charlie Davao, was a respected actor, and his siblings, Bing, Mylene, and Charlon Davao, also pursued careers in the entertainment industry. Initially, Ricky started as a dancer before transitioning into acting, where he quickly became a household name in Philippine cinema and television.
His career took off in the 1980s, starring in films that showcased his versatility and depth as an actor. He was known for his ability to portray complex characters, earning him accolades from prestigious award-giving bodies such as FAMAS, Gawad Urian, and the Metro Manila Film Festival.
A Storied Career in Film and Television
Ricky’s filmography is a testament to his dedication to the craft. He starred in critically acclaimed films such as “Saranggola” (1998), which won him multiple Best Actor awards, “Magnifico”, “The Flor Contemplacion Story”, and “Big Night!”. His performances were often lauded for their emotional depth and authenticity.
On television, Ricky was a familiar face in drama series, appearing in “Mula Sa Puso,” “Pangako Sa’yo,” “My Korean Jagiya,” “The World Between Us,” and “Magpakailanman”. His ability to seamlessly transition between film and TV made him one of the most respected actors in the industry.
Personal Life and Relationships
Ricky was once married to actress Jackie Lou Blanco, with whom he had three children: Kenneth, Rikki Mae, and Arabella Davao. Despite their separation, they remained close, and Jackie Lou paid tribute to Ricky, saying, “You will forever be missed. I love you.”.
In his later years, Ricky found love with Mayeth Malca, who stood by his side throughout his battle with cancer. In a heartfelt tribute, Mayeth expressed her grief, saying, “Life doesn’t feel right without you.”.
Tributes from the Entertainment Industry
Following his passing, tributes poured in from fellow celebrities and colleagues. John Arcilla, Ice Seguerra, Arnold Clavio, and Janine Gutierrez shared their memories of Ricky, highlighting his kindness, professionalism, and unwavering passion for his craft. Zsa Zsa Padilla fondly remembered him as “everyone’s buddy,” emphasizing his warm and friendly nature.
A Lasting Legacy
Ricky Davao’s contributions to Philippine cinema and television will forever be remembered. His remarkable body of work continues to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers. Beyond his talent, Ricky was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of excellence in the industry.
As we bid farewell to this legendary artist, we celebrate his life, his achievements, and th