On June 25, 1972, comedian-actor Jonathan Garcia, better known as Chokoleit, was born. Known for his quick wit and unforgettable comedic performances, Chokoleit was among the pioneers of stand-up comedy in Philippine entertainment.
Born in Davao City and a graduate of Mass Communication, he first worked at Ricky Reyes Salon before discovering his talent in comedy bars, which eventually paved the way for his entry into show business.
Over the years, Chokoleit entertained everyone through his colorful characters in the television shows and movies until his death on March 9, 2019, because of a heart attack.
Remembering him on his special day, here are some of the roles that showcased Chokoleit’s unique brand of humor:
Pearly Shell in Marina (2004)
One of Chokoleit’s earliest and most beloved television roles was Pearly Shell in the fantasy series Marina, headlined by Claudine Barretto. He played a gay shokoy who became the loyal servant and best friend of Dugong (Malou de Guzman).
Pearly Shell was captured by Dugong while she searched for a man to victimize, only for her plans to be foiled by Victoria (Cherie Gil). Chokoleit’s comedic timing and chemistry with the cast quickly made the character a fan favorite.
The iconic character later appeared in Anne Curtis’s fantasy series Dyosa, reuniting with Dugong.
Denden in Volta (2004)
Chokoleit joined fellow comedy stars Eugene Domingo and Ai-Ai delas Alas in the superhero-comedy film Volta. As Denden, Chokoleit added humor to the film and shared memorable scenes with the cast, serving as one of the colorful personalities in Perla's (Ai-Ai) life as she balances her ordinary life and superhero duties.
Didi in Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Moveeh (2006)
Chokoleit starred in the popular superhero-comedy movie Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Moveeh as Didi, a hairstylist and devoted best friend of Ada (BB Gandanghari). As Didi, Chokoleit served as Ada's loyal best friend, providing comic relief while supporting her journey to becoming Zsazsa Zaturnnah (Zsa Zsa Padilla).
Chicken Feet in Da One That Ghost Away (2018)
Chokoleit played Chicken Feet in the horror-comedy film Da One That Ghost Away, starring Kim Chiu and Ryan Bang. A playful parody of the iconic Lotus Feet from Kris Aquino’s Feng Shui, Chicken Feet introduced himself as Lotus Feet’s cousin and appeared with chicken feet. His hilarious scenes, particularly those involving Lassy Marquez’s character and a giant rotating bagua, became some of the film’s most memorable comedic moments.
Princess Beauty in Fantastica (2018)
One of Chokoleit’s final film appearances was in Vice Ganda’s fantasy-comedy blockbuster Fantastica. He played Princess Beauty, one of the enchanted princesses of the Fantastica Kingdom who awakens from a long slumber, only to discover she has developed terrible breath from sleeping for far too long. His character was later trapped by the villain queen (Bela Padilla) and turned into her right hand, literally.
Years after his passing, Chokoleit remains remembered for the laughter he brought onstage and onscreen. From Pearly Shell to Princess Beauty, his memorable characters continue to entertain viewers and remind audiences why he became one of the country's most beloved comedians.