November 15, 2025 | 12:56pm
MANILA, Philippines — Veteran actress and celebrated humanitarian Rosa Rosal has passed away. She was 97 years old.
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC), where Rosa served on its Board of Governors, announced her passing on November 15, news confirmed by Rosal’s niece Rica Thio on Facebook.
“For over 7 decades, Gov. Rosal devoted her life to the service of the Red Cross,” said the PRC. “She championed voluntary blood donation across the country, strengthened PRC’s welfare services, and used every platform she had to promote compassion, volunteerism, and the protection of the most vulnerable.”
The organization also said Rosal “leaves behind a legacy of genuine service, dignity, and love for humanity, a legacy that will continue to guide the Philippine Red Cross and inspire generations of volunteers.”
Thio shared that her aunt’s wake would be held in Makati’s Sanctuario de San Antonio, with further details to follow.
Former senator and PRC chairman Dick Gordon was among the first to issue a statement hailing the contributions of the late actress.
Gordon described Rosal as a “devoted and iconic volunteer whose life was defined by compassion and unwavering service” and because of her tireless advocacy, “helped create a national consciousness for voluntary blood donation, inspiring countless Filipinos to give the gift of life.”
The politician noted Rosal was a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1999 (the highest honor for public service in Asia) and the Order of the Golden Heart (Grand Cross) in 2006, the latter a civilian distinction conferred by former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for Rosal’s lifetime dedicated to public service.
“Gov. Rosal leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dignity, and selfless service,” Gordon ended. “The Philippine Red Cross extends its deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.”
Last month, the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences falsely claimed that Rosal had already died before her 97th birthday. The organization quickly walked back their announcement and apologized to the actress and her family.
Prior to her retirement, Rosal — born Florence Lansang Danon — debuted during the Golden Age of Philippine Cinema, appearing in classic films like “Anak Dalita,” “Badjao” and “Biyaya ng Lupa.”
Later movies include “Sakada” and “Esperanza: The Movie” having appeared in the original series from 1998.
She also starred in television shows such as “Saan Ka Man Naroroon,” “Ang Iibigin Ay Ikaw,” “Narito Ang Puso Ko,” and “Vietnam Rose,” and hosted “Damayan” and “Kapwa Ko Mahal Ko.”
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