Cocoy Laurel passes away at 72
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Veteran film and theater actor Victor “Cocoy” Laurel has passed away at the age of 72, his family confirmed on Monday.
The news of his passing was shared by his niece, Nicole Laurel Asensio, in a Facebook post. While the cause of death was not disclosed, the family expressed their gratitude to those who have extended their condolences and prayers during this difficult time.
Tributes poured in online as news of his passing broke online. Among the most heartfelt was a message from his niece, singer Nicole Laurel Asensio, who took to Facebook to honor her beloved godfather and uncle.
In an emotional post, Nicole described the deep pain of losing someone who had been a guiding light in her life. “Losing you is one of the most difficult things ever,” she wrote. She recalled the recent moment she was able to hold his hand and say goodbye, calling it a blessing and expressing peace in knowing he is now “with Jesus in paradise, so full of his love and light.”
Nicole paid tribute to Cocoy's unwavering faith, describing how he served God wholeheartedly through his many talents. She expressed deep gratitude for the love he gave to their family, his inspiring presence, and his encouragement during difficult times. Most personally, she thanked him for teaching her how to sing and appreciate music--a gift that changed the course of her life.
“There will never be another you,” she wrote, grieving the immense loss but finding comfort in the belief that he is now reunited with their departed loved ones and surrounded by eternal beauty and music.
Although she cannot be home with family at this time, Nicole shared that she will honor his memory by continuing to sing, just as he taught her to--with love, passion, and purpose. “I promise to sing every song with you as my driving force and inspiration.”
Actress Denise Laurel also paid tribute to her uncle in a social media post, "He graced the world with his world class talent, his saint like kindness, his massive heart filled with love for everyone, generosity and his unwavering faith. His voice -- one that moved so many hearts and lifted spirits -- now leading the heavenly choir, singing praises before the throne of the One he served so deeply reunited with his friends and family.
"Though we mourn his absence, we celebrate his life and the legacy of love, art, and devotion he leaves behind in the hearts of all the people whose life he's changed."
Cocoy Laurel, a beloved figure in Philippine theater and music, left behind a legacy. Best known for his baritone voice, refined presence, and heartfelt performances, Cocoy carved a niche for himself in both the entertainment industry and in the hearts of those he mentored and inspired.
A member of the prominent Laurel family, Cocoy was the son of the late former Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel. While his lineage tied him to politics, it was in the world of performing arts that he made his mark. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Cocoy rose to prominence as a romantic leading man, both on stage and screen. His talents as a singer were widely recognized, with many remembering him as one of the most distinct voices in Philippine musical theater.
Cocoy first rose to national fame in 1969 when he was dubbed the “Romeo of the Philippines” after winning a talent search inspired by Romeo and Juliet. By the early 1970s, he had solidified his status as a teen heartthrob, starring alongside screen icon Nora Aunor in films like Lollipops and Roses and Impossible Dream.
Despite his onscreen popularity, Cocoy's deepest passion lay on the stage. A product of Repertory Philippines, he became a staple of the country's theater scene, playing leading roles in major productions such as Evita, The Elephant Man, Guys and Dolls, and Les Misérables.
Cocoy honed his craft internationally, studying acting in New York, painting in Madrid, and music at the prestigious Juilliard School, where he received his diploma from theater legend Helen Hayes.
In 1989, he joined the original West End cast of Miss Saigon in London, and later took on the iconic role of The Engineer in the Australian production, performing the part in over 450 shows.
His artistic pursuits also extended to music. He released a Spanish-language album titled Te Quiero and appeared in several live performances, including a standout collaboration with National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.
In 1996, Cocoy returned home to portray national hero José Rizal during the centennial celebration held at Luneta, a defining moment in his career that merged his artistry with patriotism.
In one of his final public appearances, Cocoy was seen paying his last respects at the wake of his former co-star Nora Aunor in April 2025.
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