MANILA, Philippines – Long time and well respected actor, Raphael Joseph De Mesa Eigenmann, better-known as Mark Gil, died today at the age of 52. He would have marked his 53rd birthday on September 25.
Reports from ABS-CBN said that Gil died on eight o’clock Monday morning of cirrhosis of the liver. Although the family has yet to issue an official statement on his death, Gil’s manager, Jane Rufino, confirmed the actor’s passing.
Gil – who was of Filipino-Spanish, and Swiss descent – comes from a lineage of highly-acclaimed showbiz personalities, having been born to renowned actors Eddie Mesa (born Eduardo Eigenmann) and Rosemarie Gil. His siblings, Michael de Mesa and Cherie Gil, are likewise highly regarded in the industry.
He rose to fame in the film directed by Mike de Leon, Batch 81, in which Gil plays the role of a neophyte initiated in a fraternity.
His last television series was the ABS-CBN drama The Legal Wife.
Gil is survived by his parents; current spouse Maricar Jacinto, and children, Andi, Ira, Gabby, Maxine, Stephanie Cheri Jacinto-Eigenmann, and Timmy Eigenmann (also known as Sid Lucero).