Denise Laurel Remembers Uncle Cocoy Laurel: “He Always Saw the Best in People”

 June 17, 2025

Subheadline:
Actress and singer Denise Laurel shares an emotional tribute to her uncle, Victor “Cocoy” Laurel, remembering his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering belief in others.

🌟 A Personal Loss for a Family of Artists

As tributes pour in from across the Philippine entertainment world following the recent passing of Cocoy Laurel, one of the most heartfelt came from someone who knew him beyond the stage and screen — his niece, Denise Laurel.

The actress, singer, and television personality took to social media and later spoke in interviews to honor her beloved uncle, offering a touching portrait of the man behind the spotlight.

“Tito Cocoy always saw the best in people, even when they couldn’t see it themselves,” Denise shared. “He was gentle with his words but powerful in presence. He never needed to speak loudly to be heard.”

🎭 Cocoy Laurel: More Than a Theater Legend

Known for his iconic stage roles in Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, and Evita, Cocoy Laurel was revered as a trailblazer in Philippine theater. However, to Denise, he was more than an artist — he was a guide, a safe space, and a quiet anchor in a large, high-profile family.

“In our family, which is full of strong personalities and public figures, Tito Cocoy was the calm in the storm,” she explained. “He listened more than he spoke. But when he spoke — oh, it was always with grace.”

Denise described her uncle as someone who never chased attention, despite being part of a family with deep roots in politics, arts, and media.

“He always made time for people. Whether you were an intern or an executive, he treated you with equal respect,” she added.

🎤 An Uncle Who Inspired Her Musical Heart

Denise Laurel, who rose to fame through shows like Precious Hearts Romances, The Voice, and Your Face Sounds Familiar, credits her uncle Cocoy for nurturing her confidence in music and performance.

“When I was still unsure if I belonged in music, Tito Cocoy was the one who told me to trust the notes and let them carry my story,” she shared. “He didn’t teach like a coach — he guided like a gardener. He let you grow in your own way.”

Denise recalled moments where Cocoy would call her after performances just to affirm her.

“He’d say, ‘You moved someone tonight — that’s more important than hitting every note.’ That always stayed with me.”

👨‍👧‍👦 Family Above Fame

Born into the esteemed Laurel family — with figures like former Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel (his father) and theater icon Celia Diaz Laurel (his mother) — Cocoy Laurel lived a life steeped in public service and cultural contribution. Yet, he chose a quieter path, devoting his life to the arts and staying close to his roots.

“Even though he worked internationally and performed for thousands, his favorite conversations were over family dinners,” Denise revealed. “He didn’t need the stage to shine — he was already light.”

She described how Cocoy had a unique ability to make people feel seen.

“He would remember the names of your friends, your hobbies, even things you forgot you told him. That’s who he was. Present. Generous.”

🕯️ Remembering His Final Acts of Kindness

Though the family has chosen to maintain privacy regarding the details of Cocoy’s final days, Denise said that in his last months, he remained true to his nature: humble, spiritual, and focused on others.

“Even when he wasn’t performing anymore, he would still call theater kids and give advice, or donate anonymously to school productions. He never wanted praise for it.”

She also recalled how he made time to visit her grandmother and cousins regularly, keeping the family close.

“His quiet presence helped heal things in our family. He never preached — he just showed up.”

🎬 A Lifetime of Legacy

As a performer, Cocoy Laurel left behind a powerful body of work across theater, film, and music. But for those who knew him best, his true masterpiece was the way he lived his life.

“He taught me that your character offstage is more important than any award,” Denise said. “And he lived that.”

Cocoy’s family confirmed his peaceful farewell through a brief message on the social media page dedicated to his late mother, Celia Diaz Laurel, thanking the public for their kind messages.

A celebration of life is currently being planned at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where Cocoy gave many of his most iconic performances.

🎙️ Denise’s Message to Young Artists

Speaking to aspiring performers, Denise offered a piece of wisdom she learned from her uncle:

“Let your art reflect who you are, not just what people want to see. That’s what Tito Cocoy believed. It’s okay to grow slowly. It’s okay to be kind in an industry that’s fast and loud.”

She added:

“He didn’t chase applause. But he got it — because he gave people something real.”

🌸 Quiet Goodbye, Lasting Light

The Laurel family, while grieving in private, continues to express gratitude for the national and international tributes received from fans, friends, and fellow performers. From Broadway veterans to university theater groups, Cocoy Laurel’s impact spans generations.

Denise ends her tribute simply:

“I love you, Tito Cocoy. Thank you for seeing the best in me, even when I didn’t. You taught me that we don’t need to be stars to shine — we just need to love fully and live honestly.”

📚 Related Articles

🎭 Cocoy Laurel’s Legacy: Theater, Family, and a Life of Grace
🕊️ Nora Aunor and Cocoy Laurel: A Bond Beyond the Screen
🎶 Nicole Laurel Asensio: On Music, Family, and Carrying the Torch
🌿 Celia Diaz Laurel: The Matriarch Who Built a Cultural Dynasty

💬 Join the conversation: #CocoyLaurelLegacy #DeniseRemembersTitoCocoy