Comedian and TV host Hans Mortel dies

Comedian and TV personality Hans Mortel has passed away.

His sister, Jean Mortel-Chupungco, confirmed the sad news on July 14 through a social media post.

Jean wrote in a public social media post, Hans was battling a health issue for three months.

"Gone too soon! You fought a hard battle. Thank you for giving it your all. I know you tried so hard for us. It's ok, you fought for 3 months. We fought the battle with you. And now you can rest in peace. I will be comforted by the thought that you're with Papa and Mama Azon now. And you're face to face with our Lord. It hurts so bad to let you go, but you deserve to rest. Know that we love you and we always will."

Hans was a host for a former talk show titled Face to Face and was a regular in comedy bars.

Comedian Vice Ganda once mentioned in a show that it was Hans who helped launch his TV comedy career.

"Bago ako tulungan ng tuloy-tuloy nina Ogie Diaz, siya ang unang nakakita sa akin sa comedy bar sa Mabini," Vice said.

According to Jean, who started a GoFundMe page for him, Hans was battling pneumonia in an "immunocompromised state."

"Hans Mortel is my brother. Currently admitted to a hospital due to pneumonia in an immunocompromised state. He can't breathe without oxygen. He had exhausted all of his insurance benefits when he was admitted last month due to the same problem. He needs to be closely monitored and he needs very expensive medicines.

"Hans is a singer, stand up comedian before the pandemic. He lost his job and only source of living due to the closure of businesses in the Philippines. And covid is still very rampant and is still taking the lives of thousands of people in my country. My brother was refused admission in local and government hospitals due to the severity of his condition. We didn't have a choice but to take him to a facility where his life may be saved. Despite knowing that I cannot afford to sustain his hospitalization expenses and his medical necessities, my family had no choice but to forgo his treatment in this facility hoping that we can save him.

"We are in dire need of help. We are knocking on your hearts, to please help us in our situation. I only have one brother. And we hope that he can get back to being healthy again.

"Thank you all so much. And we are very grateful for your support!"

Meanwhile, here are other comedians who have passed away: