Veteran actress Vangie Labalan passes away at 83
Veteran actress Vangie Labalan has passed away. She was 83.
Her son Carlo Labalan said on Facebook that she died due to an illness while in Australia.
"With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, Vangie Labalan (Ma. Christina Bonghanoy Labalan). She passed away today in Australia due to illness, surrounded by those dearest and nearest to her heart. Her memories will forever remain in our hearts," he captioned.
"To everyone who [knew] her, [loved] her, and was touched by her kindness, we extend our deepest gratitude. She is deeply loved and will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched."
Carlo added that Labalan's remains would return to the Philippines, and a necrological service would be announced soon.
The actress is survived by children Carlo, Van-van, their two siblings, and nine grandchildren.
Labalan began radio work in Bacolod as a teen before she was discovered by National Artist Ishmael Bernal, who cast her in his 1980 films Girlfriend and Manila By Night.
But her breakout role was in Bernal's Himala, where she played Aling Saling, matriarch to national Artist Nora Aunor's Elsa.
She also starred in Karnal, Dyesebel, Hihintayin Kita sa Langit, and Shake, Rattle & Roll movies. Her last projects were the movie Mallari, and TV shows Lolong and Batang Quiapo.
