Rico J. Puno, The OPM Legend, Has Died At The Age Of 65

OPM legend Rico J. Puno has died at the age of 65 and this brought grief to his fellow music personalities in the Philippines.

His manager and sister-in-law, Anna Puno, confirmed this news on GMA’s Unang Hirit.

Anna wrote a touching message on Instagram.

“Numbed with grief, I would like to call on all entertainers in the OPM Industry as well as his worldwide fans to stop for a moment and say a prayer to one of the most respected singers in the country,” she said.

She added that it was “serendipitous that Starmedia prepared a solo 40th Anniversary concert for him and a US tour with the OPM stalwarts and colleagues just recently.”

Rico’s daughter, Tosca Camille Puno-Ramos, said that Rico passed away due to cardiac arrest.

People close to him knew the background of his health. In 2015, he underwent open heart surgery. Last year, he got a new pacemaker, based on the article published in ABS-CBN.

The veteran performer is set to do his concert with the title Sana Tatlo Ang Puso Ko. He is supposed to perform together with comediennes Marissa Sanchez and Giselle Sanchez.

Several stars in the industry have expressed their grief over the death of Rico J. Puno.

Here are some of the post of the celebrities paying respect to the OPM legend.

Rest In Peace, Rico J. Puno. Your distinctive voice that lent itself to so much of the music of my childhood will not be forgotten.
To Tito Rico’s family, my deepest condolences.
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) October 29, 2018

#ricojpuno we will miss you! Now that you are in heaven, behave! We love you! @starmediaentPH https://t.co/csx1Cl3XU9
— martin nievera (@4eversinging4u) October 29, 2018

I grew up with your songs dear koriks. You will forever be my icon. Rest in peace Rico J! #namamasyalpasaluneta
— kim atienza (@kuyakim_atienza) October 29, 2018

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpiKpdMHU0U/?utm_source=ig_embed

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpiNx74lz7X/?utm_source=ig_embed

Rico J. Puno is also set to run as Councilor in Makati City under Junjun Binay’s party. Previously, he was with incumbent Mayor Abby Binay but certain issues about his health led him to transfer to the other side.

Throughout his career he was able to make several hit songs such as May Bukas Pa, Sorry Na Puwede Ba and Magkasuyo Buong Gabi.