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Who was Monti Parungao? 5 things about the late director
From working in television to directing films and shows, Monti Parungao spent decades in the entertainment industry.
On Tuesday, his passing was announced by his family after battling cancer.
Here are five things to remember about the late director.
1. He started working at GMA in 1987
Parungao began his career at GMA Network in 1987, according to a Facebook post he shared about his life and career.
“I was born in Cubao. I studied in Malabon until I became a young man. I moved from one place to another and attended three colleges,” he wrote in Filipino.
He said he worked across different TV stations and explored various fields, including television, advertising, theater, events, writing, production, editing, and directing.
“I started working at GMA7 in 1987. I worked at different TV stations. I worked in TV, advertising, theater, events, writing, production, editing, and directing,” he said.
Parungao also worked and lived in Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand before eventually returning to Cubao.
2. He directed TV shows and films
Parungao directed several television and film projects throughout his career.
Among his works with GMA Network were “In My Dreams,” “Madrasta,” “The Lost Recipe,” and “Survivor Philippines” Seasons 1 to 3.
In film, Parungao directed “Sagwan,” “Pulupot,” and “Brothers in Law,” among others.
3. He battled colon cancer
Parungao posted about his battle with colon cancer in 2025.
In January of that year, he posted a video seeking financial help for his treatment and surgery.
In April 2025, fellow director Anna Ylagan also appealed for support for Parungao, saying he needed an urgent surgery to remove his tumor.
“Hi everyone! My friends and I are helping Direk Monti Parungao who is battling colon cancer. He needs an astounding amount to afford a much-needed urgent surgery to remove his tumor,” Ylagan said in a Facebook post.
4. He found comfort in crocheting
During his cancer battle, Parungao also turned to crocheting.
In an Instagram post, he shared that he found the activity meditative and said it helped him stay calm.
“I find crocheting meditative. Thoughts just pass by me the whole day without clinging onto them. It always is a calm day,” he wrote.
5. He was 58 years old
Parungao was born Edgardo Puno Parungao III on October 14, 1967.
He was 58 years old. —CDC, GMA News
