Theater director Bobby Garcia passes away

Theater director and producer Bobby Garcia has passed away. He was 55.

In a statement released on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda on Wednesday, Garcia's family expressed their gratitude to friends for respecting their need for privacy during this difficult time.

“Kami po'y nakikiramay sa pamilya at sa mga mahal sa buhay ni Bobby Garcia. Bobby was one of the most beautiful persons inside and out na nakilala ko po sa tanang buhay ko. You will be missed, and wherever you are, I know you’re in heaven. But Bobby, I want you to know that you’re loved. Maraming, maraming salamat,” said Abunda, who is a close friend of Garcia.

The family has not disclosed the cause of death.

Garcia founded Atlantis Productions and helmed over 50 productions across Canada and Asia. His work garnered critical acclaim, with several shows receiving nominations for prestigious awards such as the Tony, Drama League, and Outer Critics' Circle.

Notably, he co-produced the Tony-nominated Here Lies Love. His final directorial project was Request sa Radyo, featuring actresses Lea Salonga and Dolly de Leon.

Garcia's career highlights include serving as an associate director for Miss Saigon from 2000 to 2001. He earned a Master of Fine Arts in Directing for Theatre from the University of British Columbia and a Bachelor's Degree from Fordham University in New York.

A three-time Aliw Award winner, he was inducted into the Aliw Hall of Fame, solidifying his significant contributions to Philippine theater.