In the game of chess, the game is over when the king falls or is checkmated. It is a representation of accepting defeat, but what it signifies is that when the king does fall, he takes a large part of the game with him.
On Tuesday, July 9, the Philippines’ entertainment industry was dealt a blow with the passing of Dolphy Quizon.
The Filipino Comedy King, 83, succumbed to his illness after battling several complications in his body for over a month at the Makati Medical Center.
In a statement released by his home network, ABS-CBN confirmed reports of his demise.
“ABS-CBN mourns the passing of Rodolfo Vera Quizon, Sr., known to all as “Dolphy”, the one and only King of Filipino Comedy. Remembered as John Puruntong, Kevin Cosme and Pidol among many other names, he remains the symbol of every Juan de la Cruz who loves his children and can make light of life’s trials,” the statement said.
For several decades, Dolphy, Rodofo Vera Quizon Sr. in real life, has made generations of Filipinos experience why laughter is indeed the best medicine.
He stood at the pinnacle of Philippine comedy, considered as the King of Comedy, and idolized by millions Filipinos.
From his subservient beginnings as a humble butong pakwan vendor to his rise as one of the country’s most revered icons, Dolphy’s life and work, more than the entertainment, have provided inspiration.
The gifted comic is well known for his free spirit and staying true to his calling. He was also very active in helping develop younger comedians.
Dolphy’s contribution to the development of Philippine comedy has been instrumental as it helped shape the growth and transition of the facet has made throughout the years.
Last month, his supporters and followers chimed in on a growing clamor to declare Dolphy as a National Artist, a call that has persisted over the years.
The National Artist Award is regarded as the highest national recognition given to Filipino individuals who have made significant contributions for the development of Philippine arts and its cultural heritage, an award fitting for a king.
The Order of National Artists is administered by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). The President has the final word on who should receive such award upon the recommendations of the CCP and the NCCA.
Last May, the Philippine House of Representatives endorsed a resolution to recognize Dolphy the title of National Artist to the committee on basic education and culture.
House Resolution No. 2404 asks the President to proclaim Rodolfo Vera Quizon, popularly known as Dolphy, as a National Artist, for “his outstanding contribution to the radio, television, film and the arts.”
In Novermber 2010, Dolphy was conferred the Grand Collar of the Order of the Golden Heart by President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino.
It was awarded to him for his work as entertainer and philanthropist, the highest recognition accorded by the President of the Philippines to a private citizen.
National Artist or not, in his long, colorful career, Dolphy Quizon has proven that he is more than just what the title entails. No other entertainer has come close to his amazing record of success and critical acclaim.
The industry has lost one of the greats—an illustrious performer and a compassionate person. But his legacy will live on forever. The authenticity in his craft will surely be missed.
(www.asianjournal.com)
(LA Midweek July 11-13, 2012 MDWK sec.A pg.8)
