Robert Alejandro, co-founder of Papemelroti, and former host of GMA 7’s “Art is-Kool” has passed away.
In a Facebook post, the local stationery brand announced the passing of Alejandro on November 5, 2024. He was 61 years old.
“Although the sorrow is great, we also want to celebrate his life, the many wonderful accomplishments and causes he championed unselfishly,” read the Facebook post.
Papemelroti furthered, “He was a beloved brother, uncle, and friend. Robert was a vibrant, passionate spirit whose creativity, generosity, and warmth endure in the countless lives he has touched.
“As a co-founder of papemelroti, his visionary spirit helped shape our brand into what it is today, bringing joy and inspiration to many,” they added.
The stationery brand also remembered the former TV host’s contributions in the field of the arts.
During the pandemic, the children’s book illustrator hosted art workshops via online for free. He was a founding member of Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (Ang INK) and Communication Design Association of the Philippines.
He also voluntarily designed former Vice President Leni Robredo’s campaign materials and murals for Museo ng Pag-Asa.
Aljeandro also served as a volunteer designer for several organizations such as PAWS, Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, ATD Fourth World Philippines, UNICEF, World Vision, and Habitat for Humanity.
In his 2020 feature in ABS-CBN’s documentary series “Local Legends,” Alejandro revealed he was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016.
“Nagkaproblema ako sa pagdudumi. Dugo iyong lumalabas, tapos nahihirapan ako. Nagpa-colonoscopy ako,” he shared.
The visual artist recalled how he readily accepted his diagnosis as he was struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts “for more than 50 years of my life.”
“Nung nagka-colon cancer ako, actually right then and there in the hospital bed when I woke up, I told myself: ‘Okay, sandali na ang ako dito. Ayoko na. Sa natitirang oras ko dito sa mundo, gusto ko mahal ko ‘yung sarili ko.'”
Alejandro said dealing with cancer helped him cope with depression, realizing he needed to live his life to the fullest.
“I’m living the best years of my life. Wala na ‘yung depression, wala na ‘yung suicidal thoughts. Sabi ko I don’t have to rush to die, because I’m going to die.”
Alejandro also found healing through art, calling it his source of happiness and the one that made him feel alive.
“Kung wala ‘yung art, siguro nagpakamatay na talaga ako. Kasi walang magbibigay kasiyahan sa buhay ko. The moment I do art, I’m very happy. ‘Yung art ‘yung nag-save sa akin dahil that was the only thing that was going right in my life.”
