The Filipino music community is in mourning. Mark “Makoy” Portado, a respected guitarist known for his quiet influence across the industry, has reportedly passed away, and the tributes pouring in from artists who considered him family are as heartfelt as they are heartbreaking.
A guitarist, coach, and church musician
Makoy was more than a session player. He was known in the industry as a guitarist, music coach, and church musician who inspired countless people through his passion and excellence in his craft. His influence stretched from studio sessions to the church pews where he played, touching musicians at every stage of their careers.
TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan’s tribute
Real-life couple TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan, who have been mainstays of the OPM scene, were among the first to share their grief. TJ revealed that Makoy was one of the first people who believed in his songs and dreams, writing: “People come and go. You stayed. Bai, thank you for being there since Day 1. You were one of the firsts to believe in my songs, my stories, and my crazy dreams. You will always be a part of me, wherever this may take me.”
KZ’s message was just as moving. “Thank you for being there when TJ and I were still trying to become who we are… You made our lives better, Kuya. You really did… This goodbye is painful, but I’ll take comfort in knowing that you are Home now. Rest well, Kuya Makoy. We’ll take it from here and we’ll keep playing, for you.”
Sarah Geronimo and the wider industry mourn
Sarah Geronimo also paid tribute to Makoy, adding her voice to the flood of messages from musicians he had worked with and mentored. The outpouring reflects how deeply one quiet guitarist could shape the sound of Filipino music, often from behind the scenes.
Makoy’s passing is a reminder of the unsung figures who build the foundation of the music we love, the coaches, players, and mentors who believe in artists before anyone else does. As KZ put it, the music will keep playing, for him.
