Heartbreak for Rico Blanco as Brother Rey Estanislao Blanco Dies at 50 After Battle with Cancer
The Filipino music industry is mourning alongside one of its most iconic figures. Singer-songwriter and former Rivermaya frontman Rico Blanco has confirmed the passing of his beloved brother, Rey Estanislao “Kuya King” Blanco, who died at the age of 50 after battling cancer.
The heartbreaking news was made public by close family friend and Rivermaya drummer Mark Escueta, who took to social media on May 14, 2025, to express grief and solidarity with the Blanco family. The post triggered an outpouring of condolences from fans, fellow musicians, and members of the entertainment community.
A Battle Fought with Courage
Earlier this year, Rico Blanco had revealed through an emotional Instagram post that his brother was fighting cancer. In his plea for prayers and support, Rico described the experience as “our toughest battle yet,” offering fans a glimpse into the pain his family was quietly enduring behind the scenes.
“We’re not giving up hope,” Rico wrote in January. “I believe in miracles, and I believe in the power of prayer.”
Rey Estanislao was undergoing treatment at the time and had shown signs of resilience, prompting a wave of support across social media. Friends and fans of Rico united in sending messages of love, strength, and healing. Unfortunately, despite the family’s efforts and Rey’s courage, he passed away just months later.
“Kuya King”: More Than a Brother
Though not in the public eye as his younger brother Rico, Rey Estanislao Blanco was deeply loved by those who knew him. Referred to affectionately as “Kuya King,” he was known for his warm personality, loyalty to family, and deep spirituality.
“He was a quiet light in our family,” one family friend shared. “Strong, grounded, and kind.”
Mark Escueta, who was not only Rico’s former bandmate but also a close friend of the family, paid tribute to Kuya King’s life in his post:
“You will never be forgotten. Rest in God’s perfect peace, King. You fought well.”
A Family in Mourning
The Blanco family has remained relatively private about the details of Rey’s illness, but sources close to them say the final weeks were filled with love, faith, and heartfelt moments. Rico reportedly spent as much time as possible with his brother during treatment, putting some professional projects on hold.
The bond between the two siblings was deeply rooted in their shared upbringing in San Pedro, Laguna. Rico had often spoken about the values his family instilled in him—discipline, humility, and resilience—all of which he credited to his parents and older siblings.
Public Reaction and Industry Support
News of Rey Blanco’s passing quickly circulated in Filipino media, with hashtags like #CondolencesRicoBlanco and #RestInPeaceKuyaKing trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
Notable figures from the entertainment world sent messages of condolence, including musicians from Rico’s era, such as Ely Buendia, Kitchie Nadal, and Barbie Almalbis, who all expressed their sympathy and shared memories of the Blanco family’s kindness and humility.
“Our deepest condolences, Rico,” Ely Buendia posted. “Losing a brother is losing a part of yourself. May you find strength in music, faith, and love.”
Private Funeral and Celebration of Life
As of this writing, the Blanco family has not released full details regarding funeral or memorial services. A family spokesperson has asked for privacy during this time, stating:
“The family appreciates the overwhelming love and support from friends and the public, but they kindly request space as they grieve and remember Rey in their own way.”
Sources say there may be a small, intimate celebration of life ceremony in General Santos or Metro Manila in the coming days, with only close family and friends in attendance.
A Legacy of Quiet Strength
While Rey Estanislao Blanco may not have been a public figure like his brother, those who knew him say he left behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and quiet strength. His life and struggle have also brought renewed focus to cancer awareness and the importance of early detection and community support for patients and families facing the disease.
As Rico Blanco returns to the spotlight in the months ahead—whether through music or public appearances—it is clear that he does so carrying not just the weight of loss, but the love and memory of a brother whose presence shaped him both as an artist and a man.
“Kuya King,” one fan wrote, “you may be gone, but through Rico and those who loved you, your light continues to shine.”