The curtains fall: Chinggoy Alonso

Artists from the industries that Alonso stepped into posted their condolences on their social media accounts. (Photo: Chinggoy Alonso/Facebook)

When curtains fall, instead of hearing an applause, cries and words of mourning are heard as veteran actor Ramon “Chinggoy” Alonso passed away at the age of 67 on Sunday.

According to Shirley Kwan, his talent manager, the actor lost his years of battle to colon cancer on Sunday night 11:30, at the Chinese General Hospital in Manila.

Perhaps remembered not only for his talent on portraying the roles given to him, but also for bearing noble-like features, which made him step into depictions of rich and powerful men in television and movies.

However, it was only in 1970s that Alonso made his debut in the big screen in “Buhay Artista.” In 1996 Alonso entered the television industry with GMA’s “Anna Karenina.” His first project in ABS-CBN was “Pangako Sa’yo.” He was switching from GMA to ABS-CBN and vice versa for different projects.

His last project was in ABS-CBN in the series Wildflower, as Senator Pablo Alcantara.

Alonso’s notable stage performances include Captain von Trapp in “The Sound of Music” and Professor Higgins in “My Fair Lady.” However, his contribution to the theater world is not limited to that of being an actor, as he was also a stage director, playwright, and producer.

Artists from the industries that Alonso stepped into posted their condolences on their social media accounts.

“He was full of life, and able to talk about anything and everything under the sun (and stars, during those late night tapings). I thought I’d get the chance to work with him again. Rest in peace, Tito Chinggoy Alonso. You will be missed,” Jet Pangan posted on Facebook.

While Audie Gomera’s message was, “Saddened to hear about the passing of Chinggoy Alonso. One of Repertory Philippines’ originals. An exemplary thespian who paved the way for many of us who followed the path of the Great White Way.”

Marina Abad Santos Benipayo posted, “I learned so much from Tito Chinggoy Alonso, I’m speechless… Rest in peace, sir.”

As of writing, Alonso’s family has yet to make a statement.