Actress Ara Davao has confirmed that her father, award-winning actor Ricky Davao, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. The 63-year-old actor died peacefully, surrounded by his children and loved ones.

Earlier on May 2, Viva Entertainment shared the news of Ricky’s death on social media, but the post was later removed. Ara, however, took to her own Instagram account to express her sorrow and confirm her father's passing. While she did not provide specific details about his cause of death, she shared that Ricky "bravely faced complications related to cancer."

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In her tribute, Ara emphasized her father's dedication to filmmaking, noting, "His remarkable body of work and award-winning performances have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire." She also remembered him as a loving father, brother, son, and friend.

Ara thanked those who sent their love, prayers, and kind messages, concluding by stating that details regarding Ricky’s memorial service would be shared in the future.

Ara Davao, shared touching memories of her father, describing him as both a devoted artist and a loving dad. Ara reflected on how her father wanted to be remembered—not just for his professional accomplishments, but for the kind of person he was off-screen.

"Well, siyempre very proud siya sa mga awards niya, movies na ginawa niya for over forty years. Sa lahat ng medium, whether sa stage, TV, films like ginagawa niya yung best niya in every role. But I think 'yung legacy talaga niya was the person he was," Ara said, emphasizing that while Ricky took pride in his numerous awards and film projects, his true legacy lies in the person he was.

Ara also recalled the many friends and acquaintances who visited her father’s wake, sharing stories of his kindness and generosity. “Ang dami niyang friends, kahit hindi ko na sila kilala lahat yung lumalapit, 'Oh my gosh, your dad was very good to us. He never forgot us. Lagi siyang nandyan, life of the party, masiyahin,'" she said. This outpouring of affection reflected how Ricky was cherished not just by his family but also by those who knew him.

In her final moments with her father, Ara shared that she would send him messages saying, "I love you" and "Goodnight," and she will always hold onto those precious moments. Despite his illness, she recalled how he was still able to respond, finding strength in his final days.

As a father, Ara described Ricky as a man full of humor, deeply supportive, and one who showed his love through actions rather than words. “Hindi kami masyado yung, 'I love you, I miss you' yung ma-words pero ano siya, super acts if services. And then kahit anong gawin ko like sa school and then nung nagshowbiz ako sobrang stage father," she explained, remembering how he always supported her in every aspect of her life, from school to her career in showbiz.

Ricky Davao passed away at the age of 63 after battling cancer complications, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and his family.

Ricky Davao, known for his versatile acting career, was the father of Ara, Rikki Mae, and Kenneth, with ex-wife Jackie Lou Blanco. Jackie confirmed in 2023 that they had separated after marrying in 1989.

Over his extensive career, Ricky starred in films such as "On the Job: The Missing 8," "Big Night!," "Rosario," "Ang Mga Kaibigan ni Mama Susan," "Metamorphosis," "Smaller and Smaller Circles," and "Barcelona: A Love Untold." He was also a frequent participant in the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival, with roles in "Mariquina," "Tukso," "Last Supper No. 3," "S6parados," "Parole," "Ani," "Sa Gabing Nanahimik ang mga Kuliglig," and "F#@bois,"* for which he won Best Supporting Actor.

Ricky began his television career with several appearances in "Maalaala Mo Kaya" before starring in iconic series like "Pangako Sa 'Yo," "Dyesebel," "Darna," "Cattleya Killer," and "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre." He also directed episodes of "Maalaala Mo Kaya" and "Magpakailanman," as well as other shows he starred in. Additionally, Ricky’s career extended to the stage, where he directed and acted in various plays and musicals.

Ricky Davao’s legacy in Philippine cinema, television, and theater will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.