Veteran broadcast journalist Cesar Apolinario has passed away at 46 on Friday at 9 a.m. in a hospital in Fairview, Quezon City.
He is survived by his wife Ma. Judith and children.
He was diagnosed with lymphoma or cancer of the lymphatic system in August 2018.
Just last Nov. 12, he was rushed to a hospital due to sepsis and pneumonia.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our Kapuso, Cesar Apolinario Jr., who peacefully joined his Creator today, Dec. 13, 2019,” GMA Network’s statement read.
“An award-winning broadcast journalist, writer, and director, Cesar will be greatly missed by his family, friends and colleagues, especially those in GMA News and Public Affairs and in the film industry, where he devoted the best years of his life.”
“A loyal Kapuso, his dedication to his craft as a news reporter, producer, and public affairs host will continue to serve as an inspiration to all.”
Apolinario earned his degree in Communication Arts at the University of Santo Tomas.
He worked at the defunct RPN Channel 9 as a part-time writer, reporter, and cameraman before transferring to GMA Network Inc. in 1999 as a researcher and cameraman for the documentary “I Witness.”
Before his passing, he hosted the network’s weekly magazine show “i Juander.”
Apolinario also directed “Banal,” an entry in the Metro Manila Film Festival in 2008, during which he won as best director.