EDITORIAL - A National Artist in Pinoys' hearts

For several days, mourners waited patiently in long lines at the Heritage Park cemetery to catch one last glimpse of their idol, Comedy King Dolphy. Tributes usually reserved for prominent statesmen poured in from various quarters. In a career that spanned several decades, Rodolfo Vera Quizon touched the lives of millions of Filipinos.

Dolphy is remembered by his loved ones and his fans in the best way: with a smile. His brand of humor celebrated some of the best traits of Filipinos. For his legions of fans, remembering Dolphy’s performances in movies and on television evokes moments of fun and a respite from the worries of everyday life. Research indicates that laughter can have a rejuvenating effect on people. Dolphy dispensed liberal doses of humor throughout his career. For those moments of mirth, gratitude is a common feeling among his bereaved fans.

Rodolfo Vera Quizon was buried yesterday at the Heritage Park Cemetery, surrounded by his loved ones, and with strangers who loved him looking on. A nation mourns the passing of an accomplished artist.

After going through a stipulated process, Dolphy may yet receive a posthumous award as a National Artist, as suggested by various quarters. In the hearts of his fans, however, he is already a National Artist, with the award – if it is forthcoming – a mere validation. Dolphy would have cracked a joke about it, and the nation would have erupted in laughter. That no one is around to deliver the joke deepens the nation’s loss of its King of Comedy.