‘Respeto’ actor Dido de la Paz dies

“It is with profound sadness that we inform you of the passing of Dido de la Paz,” Jan-B wrote. “A father, a brother, and a friend to many.”

“Further details regarding the wake will be posted on Monday. Thank you and God bless,” Jan-B added.

“Respeto” director Treb Monteras told radar Entertainment that Dido was such a kind man who remained unassuming and humble despite his stature.

“Ang lungkot talaga,” Treb said in a private message. “Si Dido, sobrang bait na tao. Walang ere, walang arte—totoong-totoo. Kahit off-cam, madami kang matututunan sa kanya. Laging may kwento, may wisdom, pero laging simple lang siya magsalita.”

He recalled Dido’s audition for the role of Doc, a poet, activist, and bookshop owner who’s nursing trauma over the murder of his wife during Martial Law.

Dido won Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actor for his role, while the film won Best Picture, as well as technical awards: Best Editing, Best Cinematography, and Best Sound. “Respeto” would also see international screenings across Asia, North America, and Europe.

“Noong Respeto, nung nag-audition pa lang siya, alam ko na agad na siya si Doc,” Treb said. “Ganun siya ka-organic, parang hindi umaarte. Sa set, lagi siyang generous—sa oras, sa energy, sa payo. Kahit minsan tahimik lang, mararamdaman mo ’yung warmth niya.”

“Malaking karangalan na nakatrabaho ko siya,” Treb added.

In an earlier Facebook post, Treb said Dido cannot be forgotten.

“Naalala ko pa ‘yung unang audition niya,” Treb said. “Tahimik lang siyang pumasok, pero dala na agad ‘yong bigat ng karakter. Pag upo pa lang niya, alam ko na—siya si Doc. Hindi ko na hinanap ang iba.”

Treb noted how Dido didn’t seek special treatment over the course of production. “Walang ere. Walang pilit. Pero ‘pag ‘action’ na, parang humihinto ang mundo,” he said. “Ganun siya—totoo, marangal, at punô ng kaluluwa.”

Off-screen, Treb said Dido is a guide who was so generous and who often gave advice—while also maintaining humor. “Hindi lang siya aktor—isa siyang mentor, isang kaibigan, isang magandang tao,” he added. “Dido, salamat sa pagpapahiram ng talento. Sa pagbibigay ng buhay kay Doc.”