Mahal's remains cremated, wake to begin this Friday

Mahal's funeral began today, Friday, after her remains were cremated in Batangas.

The comedienne's stepmother, Josefa Tesorero, confirmed the news to GMA News Online.

After Mahal was cremated, her family brought her urn to Santuario de San Vicente de Paul and Shrine on Tandang Sora Avenue in Quezon City.

According to Josefa, the wake will only be for three days and can only be attended by close relatives to adhere to safety protocols.

"Limited lang 'yung makapasok kasi may protocol na sinusunod (Only a limited amount of people can attend since we have to follow protocols)," she said.

After the funeral, Josefa said they plan to lay Mahal's remains to rest in Himlayang Pilipino Memorial Park in Tandang Sora.

Mahal, whose real name was Noeme Tesorero, passed away in a hospital in Batangas. According to her US-based sister Irene Tesorero, the comedian and actress passed away due to "gastro" and COVID-19.

Mahal was 46 years old. — Kaela Malig/LA, GMA News