“Don’t worry, we’re just talking, just sharing stories.”

Friends and colleagues from the industry flocked to the first night of the wake of the late veteran actor Ricky Davao, held this Sunday at Heritage Park in Taguig City. One of the first to arrive was Ali Sotto, a seasoned actress and broadcaster who frequently worked with Ricky in TV dramas and showbiz events.

Also present was singer-actress Marissa Sanchez, Ricky’s former co-star in the film Social Climbers. Director Johnny Manahan, who had known Ricky for over four decades since their early days in the industry, was also seen at the wake. Actor Pen Medina also arrived and described Ricky as hardworking and easy to get along with on set.

R. Cortez, a long-time friend and neighbor of Ricky, was also in attendance. He shared that Ricky was one of his closest friends, and he felt deep sorrow over his passing. Ricky’s former wife, Jackie Lou Blanco, was present as well, along with other veteran actors such as Perla Bautista, Gina Alajar, and many others from the film and television industry.

Ricky’s daughter, Ara Davao, also delivered a heartfelt message, sharing how her father wanted to be remembered not only as a great actor but also as a kind person, a loving father, and a true friend.

“Well, of course, he was very proud of his awards and everything he achieved in over 40 years in the industry,” Ara said. “He gave his best in every role—whether on stage, TV, or in films—and he always delivered. But I think his real legacy was the kind of person he was. And I can see that now, with so many of his friends here, even people I don’t know coming up to me saying, ‘Your dad was so good to us. He never forgot us. He was always there.’ He was the life of the party, cheerful. Ricky Davao was one of a kind—funny, hilarious. There was never a dull moment with him.”

“He was one of the nicest people I ever met—and not all actors are like that. Ricky was one of the best. There’s no one like him. It feels like we lost a gem of a friend. He was very selfless. If there’s a ‘Mother of Perpetual Help,’ he was like a ‘Father of Perpetual Help.’ That’s Kuya Rick. And though he was family-focused, he was also so determined—always present, always involved.”