Comedian Chokoleit dies at 46

Chokoleit was also popular in his role as Pearly Shells in the fantasy series called Marina in 2004. He was also in Kampanerang Kuba in 2005 and in soap operas including Mara Clara in 2010, Aryana in 2012 and Asintado last year. (File Photo: hot_chokoleit/Instagram)

Star magic confirmed the passing of local comedian Jonathan Aguilar Garcia popularly known by his stage name Chokoleit early Sunday. He was 46.

In an Instagram post, @starmagicphils expressed their love for their talent and thanked the comedian from the joy he has shared to the public.

Although ambulance rushed him to Abra Provincial Hospital, he passed away as a result of having difficulty in breathing after his performance in the Abra Kawayan Festival according to the details gathered.

Meanwhile, Carl Guevarra, one of the performers with Chokoleit last night shared the comedian’s “last words” in his last performance on his Facebook timeline. In the video, the late comedian was seen heavily sweating and struggling to breathe while performing, which Carl recognized in his Facebook status.

Chokoleit, who happens to be the first performer in the event made a chilling introduction. He said that he felt good to hear an applause from the audiences and that the applause and cheering made him feel more inspired to perform.

He joked, “Akala, nagkamali kayong lahat. Siyempre, ako ang mauuna! Kasi kung ako huli, baka hindi ko na kayo abutan!” (Maybe, you thought they made a mistake, of course, I will be the first [to perform], because if not, I might not be here anymore.”)

Also performed with Chokoleit last night on the last day of celebration of the festival in Abra Sports Complex are the celebrity guests and artists including Paulo Avelino, JM De Guzman, Ryza Cenon, Pops Fernandez, The Juans, Showtime Dancers, Enchong Dee, and Coleen Garcia.

Avelino, one of his colleagues, expressed his message to the comedian tweeting, “The laughter and happiness you brought to everyone will surely be missed.”

On the other hand, Vice Ganda, his fellow comedian and one of his closest friends, also wrote a tweet giving thanks to the Lord for He gave him a chance to meet and become Garcia’s friend, adding that he was sad to lose him but also happy that he is in a happier place now. He ended the tweet expressing love for him.

Among those who expressed their sadness and grief to Garcia were also his talent manager Ogie Diaz, artists Amy Perez-Castillo, Kip Oebanda, Tim Pavino, Vhong Navarro, Maris Racal, Luis Manzano, Sunshine Cruz, and Marietta Subong or Pokwang.

Chokoleit was popular in his role as Pearly Shells in the fantasy series called Marina in 2004. He was also in Kampanerang Kuba in 2005 and in soap operas including Mara Clara in 2010, Aryana in 2012 and Asintado last year.