MANILA – Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo on Tuesday condoled with the family of theater icon Celia Diaz-Laurel who passed away on Monday night. In a statement, Panelo said Diaz-Laurel would be remembered for her contributions to the developme…

MANILA – Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo on Tuesday condoled with the family of theater icon Celia Diaz-Laurel who passed away on Monday night.In a statement, Panelo said Diaz-Laurel would be remembered for her contributions to the development of the Philippine artistic and cultural landscape as a “renowned thespian, celebrated author, accomplished painter, and advocate for the arts.”
Panelo also hailed Diaz-Laurel as the “embodiment of the ideals of elegance, grace, compassion and strength.”
“Today, we relay our sincere condolences to them, as well as to all the relatives, friends and loved ones of Celia, for her demise,” he said in a press statement.
He also commended Diaz-Laurel for her generosity and philanthropic endeavors.
“All the world is a stage, and one of its actors has made her final exit. Her life’s performance was truly beautiful. We pray that the perpetual light will shine upon her and that she may rest in peace,” he said.
Diaz-Laurel, 93, died at 8:30 p.m. Monday, her family confirmed.
Diaz-Laurel is the wife of former Vice President Salvador Doy Laurel.
The Laurel couple have eight children — Victor, Stella, David, Larry, Suzie, Iwi, Lynnie, and Kristipi.
Diaz-Laurel wrote numerous books, painted art pieces with a book chronicling her works, and performed as a stage actress.
She later became a production and costume set designer. She had 50 portrayals on stage, with nearly 80 plays where she contributed as the costume and production designer. (PNA)