Comedian Chokoleit passed away shortly after his performance at the Abra Kawayan Festival on Saturday night.
He was 46. The sad news was confirmed by training and talent management Star Magic.
The statement read, “Chokoleit was performing in an out-of-town show in Abra, and experienced difficulty in breathing after his performance.”
Chokoleit — Jonathan Aguilar Garcia in real life — was rushed to the Abra Provincial Hospital after his performance.
Dr Rosauro Seares said the comedian suffered from pulmonary edema and heart attack.
In a Facebook post, Carl Guevarra, actor and vocalist of the band The Juans, shared that Chokoleit struggled through the entire performance where he sang and did stand-up comedy.
“The ambulance rushed him to the hospital but now we were informed he didn’t make it and passed away. We are all in shock. Prayers to all his loved ones. RIP,” Guevarra wrote.
The vocalist, as well as the Abra Provincial government, posted a series of video footage from the comedian’s performance. Chokoleit appeared in numerous shows on ABS-CBN but gained popularity in his role as Pearly Shell in the television series Marina in 2004.
Tributes poured in online from his friends in the entertainment industry immediately after the news broke out.
“Thank you Lord for giving me a chance to meet Chokoleit and become his friend,” tweeted It’s Showtime host Vice Ganda. “I’m sad that we lost him.
But happy that he’ll be in a much peaceful and happier place now with you. Thanks for everything Chokie. I love you!!! Rest well my friend.”
“Rest in Peace Chokoleit,” said TV personality Amy Perez-Castillo on Twitter.“My heart goes out to your family and friends during this difficult time.”
“So sad to hear about Chokoleit,” tweeted singer-actor Ogie Alcasid.“Prayers of grace for his loved ones. RIP dear friend.”
“RIP Chokoleit Garcia. You’ve always been so nice to me. May you rest in peace,” tweeted actress Sunshine Cruz.
Abra Gov. Joy Bernos honoured the late comedian in a Facebook post for his professionalism.
“His demise saddened our hearts and we are indeed very grateful as he shared his final moment up on stage sharing his artistry, giving our fellow Abrenians not only laughter but a sense of hope and love, and gracing our celebration with utmost level of professionalism,” she wrote.
“Hats off to your great performance, friendship and love extended to the whole people of Abra. Again, we extend our prayers, thanks and love to our dear friend Chokoleit.”
Chokoleit
