Ricky Davao, a veteran actor and director, passes away at age 63

The versatile actor and director Ricky Davao leaves a long legacy when he dies at age 63.

Ricky Davao, whose true name was Frederick Charles Caballes Davao, passed away on May 1, 2025, at the age of 63, according to local media on Friday. Viva Entertainment confirmed Ricky's passing, writing, "Pahinga kana, Sir Ricky," at age 63.

He is the son of well-known actor Charlie Davao and the younger brother of Bing Davao. His early love of performing was evident when he joined the Vicor Crowd as a dancer, marking the beginning of his career in entertainment. Davao made the switch from dance to acting and went on to have a successful career in theater, television, and movies.

His ability to play a variety of roles, from interesting antagonists to nuanced heroes, won him praise for his versatility.  In the 1980s drama "Bongbong at Kris," he portrayed a fictionalized Bongbong Marcos, demonstrating his skill on stage.  Important parts in films like "Fuccbois" (2019) and "Cattleya Killer" (2023) are part of his filmography.

Davao's dedication to the development of Philippine cinema is demonstrated by his work as a television director and jury at the inaugural ASEAN International Film Festival Awards in 2013, in addition to his acting career.

Davao married actress Jackie Lou Blanco in 1989, and the two of them had three children. The couple reunited on-screen in 2021 as husband and wife in the drama anthology "I Can See You: AlterNate," despite their subsequent separation. With Ricky Davao's death, a chapter in Philippine entertainment history comes to an end.  His diverse skill set and commitment have made a lasting impression on the business, inspiring colleagues and young artists alike.