Great Sorrow: Eat Bulaga Dabarkads Mourn the Loss of a Beloved Member of Over 22 Years

A wave of profound sadness has enveloped the Eat Bulaga family, as well as its loyal fans across the globe, following the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of its most cherished team members. Known for his decades-long dedication behind the scenes, the beloved crew member had been a cornerstone of the iconic noontime program for over 22 years.

A Quiet Force Behind the Scenes

The tragic news was confirmed earlier today by TAPE Inc., the production company behind Eat Bulaga, through a heartfelt official statement posted on their social media accounts. While the identity of the deceased has not yet been publicly disclosed out of respect for the family’s wishes, insiders close to the production have confirmed that the individual was a backstage crew member — someone whose work was largely unseen by viewers but was deeply felt by the entire team.

According to multiple sources, he had been a constant presence at Broadway Centrum and later in the show’s current studios, quietly and diligently working day in and day out to ensure the show’s success. Over the years, he had become more than a co-worker — he was family.

“The entire Eat Bulaga family is in deep mourning. We lost not just a colleague, but a dear friend who stood by us through countless seasons, triumphs, and trials,” the statement read. “He was more than just part of the staff — he was family.”

A Painful Goodbye for the Dabarkads

News of the crew member’s passing broke late last night, reportedly leaving the cast and production team in tears. For many Dabarkads, especially those who had worked with him since the early 2000s, it felt like losing a brother. His absence was immediately felt on set, where his laughter, work ethic, and encouraging words were a daily source of positivity and strength.

“He was there before many of us joined,” one long-time crew member shared. “He taught us how to handle pressure, how to laugh even when things went wrong, and how to treat this place not just as a workplace, but as a second home. It’s impossible to imagine the show without him.”

Another production assistant recalled how he was always the first to arrive and the last to leave, making sure everything was in place. “He carried the weight of the show quietly but powerfully,” she said, wiping away tears.

Tributes from the Eat Bulaga Family

The outpouring of love and grief on social media has been overwhelming. From longtime hosts to former cast members, many took to Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) to honor his memory.

Jose Manalo, one of the show’s veteran hosts, wrote in a moving post:

“Sobrang sakit sa puso. Isa kang haligi sa likod ng kamera. Maraming salamat sa lahat. Mahal ka namin.”
(“This hurts so much. You were a pillar behind the camera. Thank you for everything. We love you.”)

Pauleen Luna-Sotto posted a candid behind-the-scenes photo with the caption:

“Thank you for your years of service, friendship, and light. You brought calm to chaos and joy to stress. You will be missed every day.”

Even former hosts like Maine Mendoza and Wally Bayola shared tributes, underlining how significant this person’s role was in shaping their experience on the show. “He was there for all of us — with a smile, a joke, or just a helping hand,” Maine wrote.

The Heart of Eat Bulaga

Eat Bulaga has been a household name in the Philippines for decades. It’s known for its hosts, its comedic and heartfelt segments, and its longevity. But what often goes unnoticed by the public are the individuals who labor tirelessly behind the scenes to bring that magic to life. This recent loss is a stark reminder that the show’s soul lies not just in the spotlight, but in the people who work in the shadows — running cables, setting props, and calling cues.

For more than two decades, the late team member was an unsung hero. Co-workers described him as someone who never sought recognition but was the first to step in when something went wrong. He was always there — fixing, guiding, and uplifting.

“He had the biggest heart and the warmest smile,” another team member shared. “On tough production days, his laugh would echo through the studio and remind us that we’re all in this together.”

Fans Join in Mourning

The Eat Bulaga fanbase, affectionately known as “Dabarkads,” has also been shaken by the loss. Many took to the show’s social media pages to express condolences and share their own memories of seeing him briefly during anniversary specials or behind-the-scenes features.

“He may not have always been in front of the camera, but we all felt his presence. Our Saturdays and lunch breaks will never be the same again,” one fan commented on Facebook.

Others have begun posting old photos and videos in tribute, while some are suggesting the show permanently name a segment or studio area in his honor.

A Fitting Tribute in the Works

In light of this tragedy, TAPE Inc. has announced plans to dedicate an upcoming episode of Eat Bulaga as a tribute to the late crew member. The tribute is expected to include personal messages from the cast and staff, a look back at behind-the-scenes moments, and musical performances celebrating his life and contributions.

“There’s no way we could just continue without honoring him,” one of the segment producers shared. “He was as much a part of Eat Bulaga as the hosts or the segments. This is the least we can do.”

The special tribute episode is rumored to air this Saturday, and fans are already preparing to tune in, ready with tissues in hand, to bid farewell to someone who made their favorite show possible for over two decades.

A Legacy of Loyalty and Love

As Eat Bulaga continues to entertain generations of Filipinos and evolve with the times, the heart of the show remains its people — both those in the limelight and those behind the scenes. The legacy left behind by this beloved crew member is one of dedication, humility, and quiet strength.

He may never have taken a bow on stage, but today, the entire Dabarkads family stands and applauds in his honor.

Rest in peace, Dabarkads.
Your spirit lives on in every laugh, every cue, and every joyful moment you helped create.