On July 10, 2012, Rodolfo Vera Quizon Sr., also known as Dolphy, the legendary actor and comedian, passed away at the age of 83 due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Throughout a career that spanned more than six decades, Dolphy brought joy to generations of Filipinos through countless films and television shows, creating characters that have become part of Philippine pop culture. From lovable family men to unforgettable comedic icons and award-winning dramatic roles, Dolphy's versatility and timeless humor continue to inspire audiences years after his passing.
Here are some of the unforgettable characters that cemented his place as one of the greatest entertainers in Philippine history:
John Puruntong in John en Marsha
Dolphy played one of his most iconic television characters, John Puruntong in John en Marsha with actress Nida Blanca. He portrayed a loving husband and father who was constantly at odds with his wealthy mother-in-law, Doña Delilah (Dely Atay-Atayan). The hit series, which lasted more than a decade, became one of Philippine television's most beloved classics and cemented Dolphy's status as the King of Comedy. A spin-off aired in 1996, with Dolphy and Maricel Soriano reprising their roles as father and daughter.
ABS-CBN Star Cinema Youtube
Kevin Cosme in Home Along Da Riles
Another beloved character of Dolphy's, Kevin Cosme, was a hardworking widower raising his children while living beside the railroad tracks. Blending comedy with heartfelt family stories, the sitcom became one of the defining Filipino television shows of the ‘90s. Currently, the cast of the original series has reunited for a new film following their lives after Kevin died.
Prinsipe Adolfo in Ang Hiwaga ng Ibong Adarna
Aside from doing comedy films and series, Dolphy also took the role of a classic Philippine epic character in the 1972 film adaptation Ang Hiwaga ng Ibong Adarna. He played the role of Prinsipe Adolfo, one of the King’s sons who was able to find the enchanted mythical bird Adarna. His performance offered a lighthearted take on the well-loved Filipino classic story while showcasing his versatility as an actor.
PENOY Movies Youtube
Nicandro De Carpio in Tataynic
Starring alongside his son Vandolph Quizon, longtime partner Zsa Zsa Padilla, and fellow comedian Babalu, Dolphy played Nicandro, a man on the run from the police. He accidentally met rich lady Rose (Zsa Zsa) with whom he falls in love.
Cinema One Youtube
Mario in Daddy O, Baby O!
Dolphy plays Mario, who is forced to raise Ana (Serena Dalrymple) while looking after his sister, Brenda (Gloria Romero), and trying to pursue his love interest, Teacher Maribel (Angel Aquino). One of the highlights from the film was Dolphy and Serena’s singing performance of “Batang-Bata Ka Pa.”
Walter in Markova: Comfort Gay
Directed by Gil Portes, Dolphy played the real-life persona of Walter Dempster, Jr., a.k.a. Markova, an aging man who was a comfort gay during World War II. He was joined by his sons Eric and Epy Quizon who played his character’s younger versions. The film earned critical praise, and his performance won the Prix de la Meilleure Interpretation (equivalent to a Best Actor award) in Brussels, Belgium, playing transvestite Walterina Markova.
Mac in Dobol Trobol: Lets Get Redi 2 Rambol!
Joining forces with another comedy icon, Vic Sotto, Dolphy starred in the 2008 film Dobol Trobol: Let's Get Redi 2 Rambol!. Dolphy played the role of Mac, a resort chef with a dog-cat relationship with his sous chef, Turo (Vic). The tension between the two escalated further when Mac’s daughter, Boni, arrived at the resort, and Turo began to fall in love with her.
Regal Entertainment, Inc. YouTube
Fr. Jeremiah Jerome Montes in Father Jejemon
In one of his final film roles, Dolphy portrayed Fr. Jeremiah Jerome Montes, a priest with a unique and humorous approach to helping others. The film was one of the entries of the 36th Metro Manila Film Festival in 2010. Dolphy earned two Best Actor awards for his role.
Cinema One Youtube