Veteran Filipino-American actress Gloria Romero, dubbed the “Queen of Philippine Cinema,” has passed away. She was 91 years old.
Romero’s daughter, Maritess Gutierrez, relayed in an ABS-CBN report that her mom “passed away peacefully” on Saturday, January 25.
Maritess was also quoted saying in a social media post: “In this time of loss, our family deeply appreciates the support, prayers, sympathy, all the lovely messages and heartfelt condolences that we’ve received.”
Actress Lovely Rivero also made known Romero’s passing in a Facebook post.
“Rest well, our Movie Queen, Tita GLORIA ROMERO,” she wrote as caption alongside photos of the late actress.
Rivero went on to extend her condolences to Romero’s family including her daughter Maritess Gutierrez and grandson Chris.
“Praying for the repose of your soul & for strength for Maritess Gutierrez, Chris & the whole family during this very difficult time,” she added.
Born Gloria Galla in Denver, Colorado, in 1933, Gloria made her film debut in the 1949 movie Ang Bahay sa Lumang Gulod as an extra.
She eventually made her breakthrough role in the 1951 film “Kasintahan sa Pangarap,” and is best known for her roles in the 1952 films “Palasig” and “Monghita.”
Her role in “Dalagang Ilocana” earned her first FAMAS Best Actress award, solidifying her status as the “Queen of Philippine Movies.”
Romero’s decorated career in the film industry also includes multiple lifetime achievement awards as well as FAMAS and Gawad Urian awards for her performances in films like Nagbabagang Luha (1988) and Tanging Yaman (2000).
Romero last appeared in the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Rainbow’s Sunset,” and won Best Actress for the family drama.
