FAMAS apologizes after mistakenly announcing Rosa Rosal's passing
The Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences has issued an apology after posting false information about veteran actress Rosa Rosal.
In its statement on Friday, Oct. 3, FAMAS disclosed that the information about Rosal's supposed passing was false.
"We sincerely apologize for an earlier post regarding the passing of Ms. Rosa Rosal. It has come to our attention that the information was false," the statement read.
"Ms. Rosal remains with us, and we deeply regret any confusion or distress this may have caused her family, friends, and admirers," it added.
FAMAS emphasized their commitment to "truth and integrity" and assured that they would carefully verify information before making a public statement.
"We extend our heartfelt apologies to Ms. Rosal, her loved ones, and the public," it concluded.
In a chat shared by entertainment journalist Mell Navarro, Rosal's grandnephew, PTV News anchor William Thio, assured the public that the veteran actress, aged 97, is doing well and is at home. PTV has likewise posted a video of Rosal after the incident.
Rosal is an actress known for her roles in films Badjao, Anak Dalita, Biyaya ng Lupa, and Sumpaan, among others. She is also a Red Cross volunteer and pioneered mass blood-donating campaigns, urging other celebrities to join, as well as initiating public service programs like Damayan for those who need urgent assistance.
She was awarded a Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1999 for public service, recognizing her "lifetime of unstinting voluntary service, inspiring Filipinos to put the needs of others before their own."
