“If I had known it was the last time…” – Rikki Mae Davao’s Heartbreaking Farewell to Her Father, Ricky

On May 2, 2025, the Philippines lost a beloved actor and director, Ricky Davao, to complications from cancer. His passing left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans. Among those most affected was his daughter, Rikki Mae Davao, who shared a deeply emotional tribute to her father, reflecting on their final moments together and the lasting impact of his love and guidance.

A Daughter’s Final Words

In her heartfelt post, Rikki Mae recounted the last conversation she had with her father. As his health declined, the family was advised to say their goodbyes. Rikki Mae entered his room, where he lay unconscious, his eyes closed and medicated. Despite his unresponsiveness, she noticed tears silently streaming down his face, a testament to the deep connection they shared. With a trembling voice, she whispered, “Thank you for being the best papa, and I will always be your baby girl.” These words encapsulated a lifetime of love, gratitude, and the irreplaceable bond between a father and his daughter.

Cherishing the Little Things

Following her father’s passing, Rikki Mae took to social media to express the simple yet profound aspects of her father’s presence that she would miss the most. She fondly remembered how he would relax in his chair, watching the news with the volume turned up too loud, and how he would passionately recount stories she had heard before, yet she listened with the same enthusiasm each time. She missed the mini sermons he would give, knowing they came from his heart, and his excitement to share his work with her, always sending texts urging her to watch his shows. Perhaps most touching was her recollection of how his eyes would disappear when he laughed, especially after pulling a prank on them. These memories painted a picture of a man whose love and joy permeated every aspect of his family’s life.

A Call for Privacy and Respect

In the wake of her father’s death, Rikki Mae made a heartfelt appeal to those who had visited him during his final days. She requested that they refrain from posting photos of him in the hospital, emphasizing the importance of respecting the family’s privacy during such a sensitive time. Her plea highlighted the delicate balance between public interest and personal grief, underscoring the need for compassion and understanding.

A Legacy of Love and Dedication

Rikki Mae’s tribute to her father was not just a reflection of personal loss but also a celebration of Ricky Davao’s legacy. She acknowledged the outpouring of love and support from fans and colleagues, which reaffirmed what the family already knew: that Ricky was deeply loved and respected. In her words, “I will never stop grieving for you. I still don’t know how to live in a world without you, but I will make sure to live my life the best way I can, and I will honor you by striving to be a good person every day and always doing my best.” This commitment to living a life that would make her father proud was a poignant testament to the enduring influence of his love and teachings.

A Final Tribute

Rikki Mae concluded her tribute with a message of hope and faith, expressing her belief that she would one day be reunited with her father. She wrote, “Enjoy your unlimited mic time, dad. I know you and Mama are watching over us. Alam ko na tayo’y magkikita muli.” This heartfelt sentiment encapsulated the enduring bond between father and daughter, transcending time and space. It was a reminder that love, in its purest form, is eternal.

Rikki Mae Davao’s poignant farewell to her father serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact parents have on their children’s lives. Her words and reflections offer a glimpse into the depth of their relationship and the enduring love that will continue to guide her in the years to come. In honoring her father’s memory, Rikki Mae has shown the world the strength of a daughter’s love and the lasting legacy of a father’s influence.