Entertainment 16/05/2025 10:15

Rico Blanco’s Younger Brother Rey Passes Away at 50

Rey Blanco, brother of renowned musician Rico Blanco, succumbed to an aggressive form of cancer at age 50, with family and friends mourning his loss and recalling the difficult fight he endured.
Rey Blanco, the younger sibling of singer-songwriter Rico Blanco, died on Wednesday, May 14, at the age of 50. His passing was confirmed through social media by his daughter Daniela and Mark Escueta, drummer of Rivermaya.



On Thursday, May 15, Daniela posted an art card on Facebook detailing Rey’s funeral and interment arrangements, writing, “Our daddy King has peacefully joined our Creator. We love you always and forever, Dad. Like you always say: Thank you, love you.”

A family member stated that the viewing and burial will be private, limited to immediate family and close friends.

Mark Escueta, who performed alongside Rico Blanco in Rivermaya before Rico pursued a solo career, shared his farewell message on Instagram, simply writing, “Farewell, brother.”

Earlier this year, Rico Blanco had appealed for prayers for Rey, who was diagnosed with an “advanced and very aggressive type of squamous cell carcinoma,” a form of skin cancer.

Describing it as the family’s “toughest battle,” Rico expressed hope that it was not too late for his brother, who had only recently begun treatment.

Please pray for King’s strength and healing. Only heaven really knows what’s best for my dear brother but we are keeping our hopes up,” Rico wrote. “I cannot bear to imagine a world without him in it. This is our toughest battle. Please, please help us win.”


Character Biographies and Context:
  • Rico Blanco is a celebrated Filipino singer, songwriter, and former member of the iconic band Rivermaya, known for his significant contributions to the Philippine music industry.

  • Rey Blanco, also known as King, was Rico Blanco’s younger brother. His courageous battle against an aggressive form of skin cancer deeply touched their family and close circle.

  • Mark Escueta is the drummer for Rivermaya and a longtime bandmate of Rico Blanco, sharing a close bond with the Blanco family.

  • Daniela Blanco is Rey Blanco’s daughter who publicly shared news of her father’s passing.

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