Elijah Canlas pays tribute to late brother JM: 'You are far too beautiful for this world'
Almost two weeks after his younger brother’s passing, actor Elijah Canlas paid tribute to JM, who he described as a person who has “the kindest and warmest heart.”
“I love you more than anything, JM. Mahal na mahal ka namin! Mahal na mahal na mahal ka ni kuya! Mahal na mahal na mahal na mahal! Habang buhay. Hambambuhay,” the Gameboys star wrote in his Instagram post on Sunday, Aug. 13. The post features a series of photos of him and JM over the years.
Also included in the post is Elijah's lengthy letter to his younger brother, taking pride in his achievements in the entertainment industry at such a young age. JM's feats include being one of the voice actors of hit international films and television series, including Coco, Wednesday, and Stranger Things.
JM starred in the movies Kiko Boksingero and ANi, as well as the short film The Flaming History of the Dela Cruz Family alongside Elijah. Most recently, JM appeared in the one-act play Mga Bata sa Selda 43, which was staged at the Virgin Labfest.
"I can go on and on about your achievements and success at your very young age. But most importantly to me, you're the best little brother anyone can ever ask for, I am so proud of you, JM. Iba ka," Elijah said.
He went on to express how amazing their “kulit” little brother has become, and how his warm and cheerful personality made him everyone's favorite.
“You always know how to make us smile and laugh up until you grew older. 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,” he said.
"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," he added.
"I've been struggling to write 'cause I don't think anything will be enough to honor you. 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. We just miss you, kulit.”
"I am so sorry we couldn't take away your pain. The guilt and regrets will forever be with us. Walang hanggang patawad para sa lahat,” Elijah wrote..
“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 added.
Elijah also disclosed that JM struggled with his mental health in his adolescence.
"We have an infinite amount of memories to remember you by. 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 every day. Walang makakatapat o higit sa 'yo,” he concluded.
If you think that you, your friend, or your family member is experiencing mental health problems, you may call the National Mental Health Crisis Hotline at 1553 (Luzon-wide, landline toll-free), 0966-351-4518 or 0917-899-USAP (8727) for Globe/TM users, or 0908-639-2672 for Smart users. It’s offering free, compassionate, and confidential support over the phone 24/7.
You may also contact Natasha Goulbourn Foundation Hopeline at 0917-558-4673, 0918-873-4673, 02-8804-4673, and In Touch Crisis Line at 0917-800-1123, 0922-893-8944, 02-8893-7603.