Veteran Filipino film and theater actor Victor “Cocoy” Laurel has passed away at the age of 72, his family confirmed on Monday, June 16, 2025. The cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

Laurel’s niece, Nicole Laurel Asensio, shared the news in a poignant Facebook post, expressing her profound grief. “My dearest Ninong Cocoy. Losing you is one of the most difficult things ever,” she wrote, reflecting on their last moments together and celebrating his life dedicated to service and his numerous talents. Asensio lauded his pure heart, immense gifts, and his pivotal role in nurturing her own musical journey.

“There will never be another YOU… God’s gift to us all, we are so heartbroken to lose you, but in comfort to know you are with Jesus in a place filled with beauty and music beyond measure, and reunited with Lola, Papa Doy, Tita Stella, Tita Suzie and Tito Tip,” her message concluded, conveying both sorrow and solace.

Cocoy Laurel was the son of the late Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel and acclaimed theater actress and singer Celia Diaz Laurel.

His most recent public appearance was in April, when he attended the wake of National Artist Nora Aunor, a close friend and former co-star with whom he shared the screen in films such as “Lollipops and Roses” and “Impossible Dream.”