JACKIE LOU BLANCO Remembers Ricky Davao’s Final Moments and Last Wish
MANILA, Philippines — Actress Jackie Lou Blanco has recently stepped forward to share heartfelt memories of her late husband, actor-director Ricky Davao, recalling the emotions surrounding his final hours and the touching wish he left behind.
In a rare and deeply personal interview, Jackie Lou spoke candidly about Ricky’s final moments—a time filled with love, peace, and humility.
A Quiet Afternoon Filled with Clarity
Jackie Lou described Ricky’s last day as serene yet poignantly clear. “He spent the entire afternoon in bed, resting. He knew it was nearing the end, yet he remained so composed, so accepting,” she shared. “He whispered to me, ‘I’m ready.’ He didn’t speak of pain or regret—just peaceful acceptance.”
For hours, she sat by his side, holding his hand, watching him drift in and out of sleep. “The air was still, and though we were surrounded by doctors and family, it felt like time had slowed. He simply let go.”
A Simple But Profound Request
What stood out most, Jackie Lou shared, was Ricky’s final wish—a modest yet deeply meaningful request that revealed the kindness he was known for.
“He asked me to take care of the orphans we’ve been supporting,” she revealed. For years, Ricky had quietly helped a small group of children from underprivileged communities, sending them to school and giving them guidance when needed. “He said, ‘Keep doing for them what I can’t anymore.’”
Jackie Lou was moved to tears, recalling, “He didn’t ask for material things or grand gestures. Just that we continue his mission—to keep those children in school, give them hope.”
A Legacy of Compassion
Ricky Davao was admired not only for his acting and directorial achievements, but also for his lasting contributions to society. Even during the peak of their careers, Ricky and Jackie Lou made time for social causes. They volunteered at local shelters, spoke at youth events, and quietly lived their values.
In 2024, they founded a small educational fund to help children complete high school—something that Ricky cared deeply about due to his own experiences growing up. His final request now formalizes that mission.
Holding the Promise
In the days since Ricky’s passing, Jackie Lou has begun working to honor his last wish. She has reached out to charities and community leaders they had previously partnered with and has set up a simple board to ensure continued support for the children Ricky cared for.
“I want this to grow in integrity and purpose,” Jackie Lou said. “Ricky believed that small acts can change lives. I want to look back and see that his love continues.”
Fond Memories and Shared Dreams
Through the interview, Jackie Lou fondly remembered how Ricky always balanced his professional life with his personal passions. “He would come home after a long day, quiet at first, then suddenly he’d be sketching ideas for a stage production, or reading letters from students.”
One evening, she recalled, they sat on their balcony with cups of coffee. Ricky read a poem he had written about resilience. “He wrote: ‘In every child’s eyes, I see tomorrow.’ That was him—always forward, always hopeful.”
Healing Through Action
Jackie Lou confessed that at times, the grief felt overwhelming. Yet fulfilling Ricky’s final wish has given her a renewed sense of purpose. “It’s in caring for others that I feel him beside me,” she said.
She plans to publish Ricky’s poem alongside testimonies from some of the recipients of his generosity, a tribute that will be unveiled at a small ceremony marking his birthday in August.
Friends and Colleagues Speak
Industry colleagues have rallied around Jackie Lou. Actor Aiko Melendez, a dear friend, commented:
“Ricky was a gentle spirit, always thinking of others. What Jackie is doing now shows her own strength and love for him.”
Director Maryo J. Delos Reyes, who worked with Ricky in theater, added:
“This is a meaningful legacy—not his filmography, though that is great—but his kindness, carried forward.”
A Promise Remembered
As the family prepares for a modest memorial this month, Jackie Lou emphasizes that Ricky’s wishes guide every decision. “He wanted simplicity, purpose, and love to carry on,” she said. “I promise I’ll do just that.”
She ended the interview with a soft smile, “He may be gone from sight, but not from spirit. His promise lives on.”
Final Reflection
In sharing these moments, Jackie Lou Blanco offers a portrait of a man who, even in his final days, thought of others. Ricky Davao’s legacy, carried forward by his grieving wife, is more than an artistic career—it’s a story of generosity, humility, and hope.
By acting on his final wish, Jackie Lou ensures that Ricky’s spirit will continue to flourish, not only in their family but also in the lives of many young souls.
