
Comedian appeals for acting roles as medical bills mount after series of illnesses.
Veteran comedian Dagul, whose real name is Romeo “Romy” Pastrana, has made an emotional appeal to his former colleagues in the entertainment industry, hoping they can help him secure acting projects as he continues to face health and financial challenges.
In an interview with Susan Enriquez’s “Kay Susan Tayo! Vlogs,” the 66-year-old comedian shared that while his condition has improved compared to last year, he is still recovering from multiple illnesses that led to frequent hospitalizations in 2025.
“Okay na ang health, hindi tulad noong last year na lagi akong nasa hospital. Parang paglabas ko, after one week, babalik na naman ako sa ospital. Ang sakit ko kasi pulmo, sleep apnea, at mino-monitor din ang kidneys ko,” he said.
Dagul also revealed that chronic knee pain has made it difficult for him to walk long distances, while cataracts in his left eye remain untreated as doctors continue to monitor his heart condition. He admitted that the required medical tests have become an added financial burden.
Looking back on his years with “Goin’ Bulilit,” Dagul fondly recalled working with now-successful stars Kathryn Bernardo, Julia Montes, Belle Mariano, and Kiray Celis. He expressed pride in how far they have come and appealed to them for any acting opportunity.
“Sa ‘Goin’ Bulilit,’ alam ko naman na marami sa inyo ang sumikat. Sana mapansin niyo ako kung may maitutulong man kayong project. Sinasabi ko na, kailangan ko ang tulong ninyo. Kahit palamuti lang, kahit anong role, tatanggapin ko para sa pamilya ko,” he pleaded.
The comedian acknowledged the kindness of friends such as Benjie Paras, Long Mejia, and former senator Manny Pacquiao, who have extended financial assistance in the past. However, he admitted that the support has not been enough to cover his ongoing medical expenses.
After “Goin’ Bulilit” ended its 14-year run in 2019, Dagul’s television appearances became scarce. In 2022, he revealed that he had been working at the barangay hall in Montalban, Rizal, serving as head of the command center for local officials.
Dagul rose to prominence through GMA7’s “Kool Ka Lang” (2001–2003) before becoming one of the familiar faces of ABS-CBN’s long-running gag show “Goin’ Bulilit” (2005–2019).
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