Mark Gil dead at 52

MANILA, Philippines – Veteran action star Mark Gil lost his battle to liver cirrhosis at 8 a.m on September 1, 2014.

Raphael Joseph De Mesa Eigenmann in real life, he is known for his skill in action and drama, he comes from a family of actors. He is the son of Eddie Mesa and Rosemarie Gil and the brother of Michael de Mesa and Cherie Gil.

Prior to his death Mark Gil was working on Mike de Leon’s movie “Batch 81” where he played a character named after his son, “Sid Lucero” (Tim Eigenmann). He also finished working on “The Legal Wife,” under ABS-CBN. Before that, Gil was part of the cast of “Walang Hanggan.”, as well as “My Husband’s Lover” under GMA Network.

Mark is survived by his kids, Andi Eigenmann, Gabby Eigenmann and Sid Lucero. He is also the former partner of veteran actress Jaclyn Jose and Bing Pimentel.

Outpour of support from social media

Fans and netizens went to social media to express their sympathies. Some refuse to believe the news and continue to ask the question, “is Mark Gil is dead?”

Others are saddened about the timing of Mark Girl’s death, which is very close to his 53rd birthday. He would have been 53 years old September 25.

Official statement from the Eigenmann Farmily regarding Mark Gil’s death

Below is the official message from Mark Gil’s family:

We, the Eigenmann Family, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everybody who has shown their concern for Ralph these past few weeks.

It is with much sorrow that we announce that he passed away this morning at exactly 8am. He died peacefully in his sleep in the arms of his wife, Maricar, and surrounded by family.

Ralph was first diagnosed with liver cancer two years ago, but it was only in June of this year that he found out that it was terminal. It was Ralph’s request that this should not be revealed, and we did not question his decision.

To those who have asked us about his condition, especially his colleagues, the press and fans, we apologize for not being forthright, but we also ask for understanding.

We would, however, like everyone to know that he spent his last days in comfort and in no pain. In fact, he was in good spirits and humor, and enjoying the presence of his entire family. Even then, he was still bringing us together, as he always has, and we are now all complete.

Until the very end, he was a warrior. Ralph faced death with courage and grace, while still bringing laughter to the room. That was his gift: the ability to make those around him better.

Ralph had told us that he only wanted to spend and cherish the remaining precious days of his life in the company of his family and closest friends. He also wished that we be allowed to grieve his passing in private.

We all request that the public please respect his wish and allow us to mourn his passing accordingly.

Please allow us this time as well to remember Ralph: husband, son, brother, father and grandfather.

For the outpouring of love for Ralph that we’ve received on his behalf, we thank you. It is deeply appreciated.

For those who’ve known and loved him throughout his career in cinema, and television, we will hold a celebration of his life and work. We will announce the details at a later time. But for now we would like to assure everyone that as long as Filipino films are being watched and appreciated, there will always be Mark Gil.

To quote a line from Batch ’81, one of the many movies he made his own, and characteristic of Ralph himself:

“Sa simula’t katapusan ay kapatiran.”