In a heartbreaking scene, actor-director Coco Martin made a surprise appearance at the wake of screen legend Dante Rivero. Eyes red with grief, he offered his deepest respects amid swirling controversies and emotions.
Manila, Philippines — Last night, a somber and emotional Coco Martin was seen arriving at the wake of veteran actor Dante Rivero, where he was welcomed quietly by the grieving family and close industry friends.
Clad in a simple black jacket, baseball cap, and face mask, Coco arrived unannounced at around 9:30 p.m., opting to keep a low profile as he paid his respects to the man he once called a mentor and father figure in showbiz.
“Tahimik lang siya. Nakaupo sa isang sulok, pero kitang-kita sa mata niya ang bigat ng nararamdaman,” shared a source who witnessed the moment.
“Hindi siya umiiyak ng malakas… pero alam mong gumuho ang damdamin niya.”
A Tearful Moment of Respect
According to eyewitnesses, Coco stayed by Dante’s casket for several minutes, silently offering a prayer. Those close to the actor said he appeared deeply emotional, holding back tears as he whispered something under his breath.
“He didn’t speak to media. He didn’t give any statement. But the way he bowed his head… that said everything,” said a fellow actor who was present.
Coco’s Short But Powerful Message
Though he refused interviews, Coco Martin released a short message through his management team:
“Mahal na mahal ko si Tito Dante. Isa siya sa mga haligi ng industriya, at naging haligi rin siya sa buhay ko bilang artista.
Hindi ko kayang magsalita pa ngayon… pero ang puso ko ay kasama ng pamilya niya sa oras ng dalamhati.”
Fans praised the actor’s humility and respect, especially amid recent rumors and controversies surrounding Rivero’s final days.
The Controversy Behind the Goodbye
Coco’s visit comes amid growing speculation that a conflict may have occurred between him and Dante Rivero during the filming of their last project together.
Actress Cherry Pie Picache had recently spoken out, hinting at “emotional stress” Dante endured before his death — which some linked to alleged production tensions.
Coco, however, has not responded directly to those claims, and his presence at the wake is being interpreted by many as a silent, heartfelt tribute rather than a public defense.
Industry Colleagues React
Several celebrities and friends of both actors reacted to Coco’s appearance:
John Arcilla: “Alam kong mahal ni Coco si Tito Dante. This must be painful for him, too.”
Tirso Cruz III: “Wala nang dapat pagtalunan. Ang mahalaga ay paggunita sa isang mabuting tao at dakilang artista.”
Lorna Tolentino: “We all process grief differently. Coco’s quiet gesture says more than words.”
A Moment of Unity Amid Pain
Despite recent public tensions, those who witnessed Coco’s appearance at the wake say it was not the time for blame, but for unity.
“Nakita namin kung paanong kahit sandali lang, naging isa ang puso ng lahat sa kwarto — para kay Dante Rivero,” said one fan who was allowed inside.
Final Thoughts
In an industry often dominated by drama and division, last night was a rare and moving reminder of the bonds that tie actors together — especially those who’ve shared the stage and screen through decades.
Whether friend, co-star, or mentor — Dante Rivero left a mark on Coco Martin. And in his silence, Coco left a message, too:
“Walang salita ang kayang pumalit sa sakit ng pagkalayo — pero ang alaala ay mananatiling buo.”