Philippine cinema losses another gem of an actress in Ms. Rosa Rosal

by Boy Villasanta

The local entertainment industry is in mourning again.

This time, a prizewinning veteran actress and a public servant has transitioned to the next life.       

Ms. Rosa Rosal, the quintessential image of decency and commitment to arts and life, breathed her last, died Saturday due to old age and a lingering illness.

One of Rosa’s descendants, actor, TV personality and model William Thio was the first one to come forward to announce the passing of her grandmother.

“First of I’d like to thank all of you who sent me personal messages. I apologize for not being able to answer all of them. I’m also sorry that this had taken a little longer than we had expected, as everything happened so fast. The past two days had been surreal But here are the details of my Lola’s wake,” said William.

According to Thio, his grandma’s wake will be at the Heritage Park and Crematorium in Taguig City from on November 17, 2025 at 4 to 1ll pm and on November 19 and 19, 2025 at 11 am to 11 pm with a service every 7 pm.

Ms. Rosal, Florence Lansang Danon-Gayda in real life, was a stunning screen goddess and a Governor of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) all her life.

Some of her most memorable movies are “Badjao,” “Anak Dalita,” “Sakada,” among other masterpieces.

She was 97.   

Meanwhile, here are two of the most heartfelt tributes to Ms.

Cathy Sanchez-Babao, writer, daughter of Rosal’s fellow LVN Picture\s stars Caridad Sanchez: “Tita Rose had an amazing body of work in Philippine cinema. She was a trailblazer in so many ways. Her greatest work though, was in the service of humanity through the Philippine Red Cross. There is no one else like her. Rest now with the angels, Tita Rose. Thank you for all that you’ve done for the country.”

Renz Spangler, movie reporter: “The Philippine Cinema has lost a truly brilliant star. She was a true luminary of her craft. She had a rare talent for making every character her own, leaving an indelible mark on every story she told.

“She taught us the importance of kindness, showing us through her own actions how a simple gesture could brighten someone’s day. Her courage was remarkable and inspiring.

“Thank you for a lifetime of unmatched service and devotion. Rest in Peace, Mommy Rose.”