Seasoned actor and director Manny Castañeda has passed away.
In a post on Facebook, director and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) chairman Jose Javier Reyes honored his friend through a heartfelt tribute.
“We were eight years old when we met. We missed a number of years between the final years of grade school and high school. But we made such a big deal about how we found each other again at the canteen in De la Salle College then. And we were inseparable since that time, all throughout college… until we both ended up teaching then finding our place in the insane world of show business,” the director wrote.
He then described his friendship of over sixty years, spanned from childhood to their careers in the entertainment industry, was characterized by unwavering support and camaraderie.
Despite their occasional disagreements, Reyes expressed deep sorrow at the loss of his inseparable companion, reflecting on the irreplaceable bond they shared.
“No, it is not going to be the same. But His Will Be Done. I know you are now having a major time giving an update to Don and Khryss and all our friends who are having eternal coffee breaks in the Great Beyond. And I know that where you are… you will on the lookout for me… everybody in our close knit circle,” he continued.
Castañeda’s contributions to cinema, both as an actor in films like “Oro Plata Mata” and “Sana’y Wala Nang Wakas”, and as a director of movies such as “Guwapings Dos” and “Shame”, leaving behind a legacy in the Philippine film industry.
Reyes, however, did not disclose the details of Castañeda’s passing, choosing instead to focus on the enduring memories and impact of their friendship.