MANILA — In a heartbreaking turn of events, the nation’s longest-running noontime show Eat Bulaga is mourning an unimaginable loss. After 22 unforgettable years filled with laughter, loyalty, and legacy, one of its most beloved behind-the-scenes members has passed away — and the entire Dabarkads family is devastated.

The announcement hit like thunder on a quiet morning. TAPE Inc., the show’s production company, issued a solemn statement confirming the passing of a veteran crew member who had been with the program since the early 2000s — a quiet hero whose presence was rarely seen on screen, but always felt.

“He wasn’t just staff. He was family. A friend. A pillar of our journey,” the official statement read.
“He wasn’t just a coworker — he was part of our soul.”

An Empty Chair Backstage…

He was never in front of the camera. He didn’t deliver punchlines. But to those who knew the heartbeat of the show, he was everything — the glue holding them together. The warm smile during chaotic days. The silent strength during tight deadlines. And now… he’s gone.

A tearful crew member shared:

“He was the first to arrive, and the last to leave. He was our light in the hardest taping days. We don’t know how to go on without him.”

Social Media Flooded with Grief

Vic Sotto accidentally said 'Eat Bulaga' on 'E.A.T.' TV5 noontime show |  Philstar.com

The Dabarkads — both current and former — flooded social media with messages of sorrow and love.

Jose Manalo wrote:

“It’s like losing a father behind the camera. We love you so much.”

Pauleen Luna-Sotto posted a throwback photo with the caption:

“You gave us light during our darkest tapings. Thank you. Rest now.”

Even former stars like Maine Mendoza paid tribute, showing just how deeply this person touched the lives of everyone who came through Eat Bulaga’s legendary halls.

Not Just a Loss… But an Irreplaceable Void

Eat Bulaga!' departs from TAPE Inc.

To viewers, Eat Bulaga is a show. But to its crew, it’s a family. Losing someone who was there from the start — who watched hosts come and go, saw formats change, weathered controversies and triumphs — is like losing part of the show’s soul.

A special tribute episode is expected to air this Saturday. Insiders say: “This will be the most emotional episode Eat Bulaga has ever aired.”

A Legacy Etched in Every Laugh

LOOK: Celebrities pen heartfelt messages for 'Eat Bulaga!' | ABS-CBN  Entertainment

In a world chasing stardom, this man never wanted the spotlight. But with his quiet dedication, loving spirit, and unshakable loyalty, he helped build the very stage where others shined.

“He wasn’t a celebrity. But he made every show possible,” one crew member said. “He gave his life to this show.”

Rest in peace, Dabarkads.
You didn’t just help run a show. You helped build memories for a nation. Today, the entire country mourns with Eat Bulaga.

In every laugh, in every heartfelt “Bawal ang Sad,” your memory will live on.

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“He was never on screen, but he was the soul behind it.”

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