The remains of Ethel Ramos, affectionately known as the “Dean of Entertainment Writers,” was cremated on Thursday, with all those who cherished her and shared a close bond with her attending her final rites.
On the preceding evening, celebrities paid their respects by reminiscing about the cherished moments they had shared with this stalwart of the entertainment industry.
During the early evening Mass, Mark Bautista, Ice Seguerra, and Jamie Rivera rendered heartfelt performances for the attendees who stayed to pay their respects.
Ramos shared a deep and enduring friendship with the legendary action star Fernando Poe, Jr., and his wife Susan Roces. It is said that Ramos took Poe’s confidences to the grave, guarding his secrets steadfastly.
Poe held Ramos in such high regard that he amalgamated their names, Ronald Allan (Ronnie) and Ethelwolda, to create his moniker, Ronwaldo Reyes, when he directed many of his films.
The “Star for All Seasons,” Vilma Santos, developed a close bond with Ramos, who served as the publicist for her film, Gil Portes’ “Miss X” (1980), which was filmed in Amsterdam.
Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado expressed her gratitude for Ramos, who played a pivotal role in bringing Mercado and her husband, Senator Bong Revilla, Jr., together over three decades ago. This fateful meeting eventually led to their marriage and the formation of their family.
Ramos also bestowed Mercado with her showbiz name, transforming her from her “very holy” given name, Jesusa Victoria.
Annabelle Rama shared a longstanding friendship with Ramos, having first met her in 1969, just a year after Rama had moved to Manila from her native Cebu.
The veteran talent manager and entertainment columnist died at the age of 87, her niece Farah confirmed on Sunday, Sept. 10.
No cause of death was mentioned.
(ai/mnm)
