PEP: Director Boots Plata dies at 68

Filipino director Boots Plata passed away early afternoon Wednesday, November 2, surrounded by his wife Dolor Guevarra and two daughters Jaypee and Anes, at the Saint Luke's Medical Center in Taguig City. The news was confirmed by his wife, who sent this text message to the family's closest friends at 1:15 p.m.: "Our good friend Direk Boots Plata has just left this world at 12:42 pm today to be with his Creator. Eternal rest grant unto him Oh Lord and let perpetual light shine on him May he rest in peace. Amen" Plata, 68, a diabetic, was diagnosed with lung cancer early this year. Prior to his death, the filmmaker had requested that no wake would be held, and that his body be cremated. It was Plata's wish also to have his ashes scattered in Pasig River. The director is known for the 1999 film Isusumbong Kita sa Tatay Ko, starring the late Action King Fernando Poe, Jr. and Judy Ann Santos. He also directed most of Judy Ann's films with Wowie De Guzman—My Pledge of Love (1999), Muling Ibalik Ang Tamis ng Pag-ibig (1998), and Kung Alam Mo Lang (1996). Directing over 10 films, the last he made was Pakisabi Na Lang... Mahal Ko Siya (2002). Plata was also known to have written screenplays of Bakit Di Totohanin (2002) and Muling Ibalik ang Tamis ng Pag-ibig. -- Abby Mendoza, PEP