Actor Elijah Canlas turned emotional as he celebrates the life of his brother and young actor, JM Canlas, who died on August 3.
In a heartfelt post on Sunday, August 13, the 22-year-old actor recounted the beautiful life of his late brother whom he described as who always “excel whenever you’re onstage or onscreen.”
“I remember the first time I saw you, JM. Mom had chicken pox when she gave birth to you that’s why [K]uya Jerom and I weren’t able to meet you as soon as possible. But I was there when mom and dad first brought you home,” Elijah wrote.
JM is the youngest brother of actors Jerom and Elijah.
“I vividly remember walking slowly to your room. You were on the bed sleeping. I was excited but shy. As I laid beside you, I just started to be mesmerized. Kuya na ako,” he added.
The 22-year-old actor also honored the contribution of JM in the entertainment industry and stated how the latter outshone him and their eldest brother, in everything he does.
“At 4 years old, you already joined us onstage performing in school musicals…You’d also compete in Math quiz bees and win. You starred in “Team Yey!”—giving joy and inspiration to your generation. You weren’t really formally trained in acting like us but, oh boy, did you excel whenever you’re onstage or onscreen (watch “Unconditional” on Netflix to know what I mean). Mapa-Cinemalaya or Virgin LabFest pa iyan,” he added.
Following in the footsteps of his elder brothers, JM also entered the entertainment industry at a young age and began to make a name for himself. He was a part of the children’s television show Team Yey! and starred in both films and TV series such as ‘Kiko Boksingero,’ ‘Ani,’ and ‘Unconditional’
The “About Us But Not About Us” star also honored how JM became everyone’s favorite because of his selflessness, reliability, and for being empathetic.
“You manage to make all the people I introduce to you feel comfortable and impressed—no matter what their SOGIE is; no matter how old or young. Everyone is important to you. You care for everything and everyone. You help and fight for the oppressed every chance you can. You always stand for what is right and just. You have the kindest and warmest heart. Everyone I know whom you’ve met loves you. You always end up being everyone’s favorite,” said Elijah.
Elijah also asked for forgiveness for his shortcomings with his younger brother.
“I always thought you deserved the best. That you deserved the world. But I realized that you are far too beautiful for this world, JM. We do not deserve you. This world does not deserve you. Don’t worry about us. None of us are mad. We understand you completely,” Elijah stated.
“Forgive Kuya Jelo for all his shortcomings. I’m so sorry we couldn’t take away your pain. The guilt and regrets will forever be with us. Walang hanggang patawad para sa lahat. Thank you for all the times you’d help and take care of our family…We’re not really affectionate as a family but you never fail to make me feel your love and how proud you are of me. I want to thank you for so many more things. I am no one without you. Walang hanggang pasasalamat para sa lahat lahat,” he continued.
The actor ended his homage by stating his promise to continue JM’s legacy.
“Babawi kami, JM. We’ll continue all your dreams and goals for us and this country. We’ll carry on your amazing legacy. We’ll continue being kind and being there for whoever’s in need. Like you always do. We will live by you through each and every second of everyday. Walang makakatapat o higit sa’yo. Enjoy ka lang diyan! Don’t worry about us. No goodbyes. I’ll see you later, JM. I love you more than anything. Mahal na mahal ka namin. Mahal na mahal ka ni kuya. Mahal na mahal na mahal na mahal!” he ended.
If you know someone who has mental health concerns, you may call the crisis hotline of the National Center for Mental Health at 0917-899-USAP (8727) or (02) 7989-USAP (8727).