Mark Gil diagnosed with liver cancer 2 years ago, family says

MANILA, Philippines - Actor Mark Gil, who died Monday morning, was diagnosed with liver cancer two years ago, the Eigenmann family revealed in an official statement released to the press on Monday afternoon.

According to the statement, it was only June of this year when Gil, born Ralph John Eigenmann, found out his cancer was terminal. It was also his decision to keep the status of his health a secret from his fans and the press.

It added Mark died at exactly 8 a.m. "peacefully in his sleep in the arms of his wife, Maricar, and surrounded by family."

Here is the official statement of the Eigenmann family in full:

"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 8 a.m. 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.'"