Susan Roces, the legendary actress and wife of the late Fernando Poe Jr., died on May 20, 2022, at the age of 80. She was known as the “Queen of Philippine Movies” and starred in more than 130 films and television programs. She won five FAMAS Awards, including two Best Actress wins. She was also a mother, grandmother, and a national treasure. How did Susan Roces die? What was her cause of death? Here are some facts you need to know.
Early Life and Career
Susan Roces was born as Jesusa Purificacion Levy Sonora on July 28, 1941, in Bacolod, Negros Occidental. She was the daughter of Jesus Tonggoy Sonora and Purificacion Levy. She finished her high school studies at the La Consolacion College in Bacolod in 1956. She then moved to Manila to pursue a career in acting.
She made her film debut in 1952 in the movie Mga Bituin ng Kinabukasan. She rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s as one of the most sought-after leading ladies in Philippine cinema. She starred in many movies with Fernando Poe Jr., such as Ang Daigdig Ko’y Ikaw, Mga Alabok ng Lupa, and Asedillo. She also appeared in other genres, such as horror, drama, and comedy. Some of her notable films include Maligno, Gumising Ka Maruja, Patayin Mo sa Sindak si Barbara, and Mano Po.
She also ventured into producing and hosting television shows. She produced the long-running musical variety show GMA Supershow with her husband. She also hosted the talk show Susan…Susan…Susan! and the game show Family Kuarta o Kahon. She later joined the cast of FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano as Lola Flora, the grandmother of Cardo Dalisay (played by Coco Martin).
Personal Life and Advocacy
Susan Roces married Fernando Poe Jr. on December 25, 1968, at the Santuario de San Jose Parish in Greenhills, San Juan. They adopted a daughter, Grace Poe, who is now a senator. They were married for 36 years until Fernando Poe Jr. died of stroke on December 14, 2004.
She was an advocate for her husband, who ran for president in the 2004 Philippine presidential election. She believed that he was cheated by Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who was declared the winner. She demanded Arroyo to resign in June 2005. She also supported her daughter’s senatorial and presidential bids in 2013 and 2016, respectively.
She was also a philanthropist and a supporter of various causes. She donated to charities, such as the Philippine Red Cross and the Philippine National Police Foundation. She also helped promote Filipino culture and arts through her involvement in organizations, such as the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND) and the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP).
Cause of Death
According to CNN Philippines, Susan Roces died on May 20, 2022, from cardiopulmonary arrest, a form of heart failure. A day earlier, she was rushed to the Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan, Metro Manila because of chest pain and difficulty in breathing. She died peacefully surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Her death was confirmed by her daughter Grace Poe in an official statement. She said:
“She embraced life wholeheartedly and beautifully. Remember her for her kindness, warmth, and beauty. She is now in the presence of the Lord and her beloved Ronnie — FPJ. We will mourn her terribly but we rejoice in her life.”
Her death was mourned by many Filipinos who admired her as an actress and a person. Malacañang sent condolences to her family, saying her death is “a big loss” not only to the local entertainment industry but also to all Filipinos. Many celebrities, politicians, and fans also expressed their grief and gratitude for her legacy on social media.
Legacy
Susan Roces will always be remembered as one of the greatest icons of Philippine cinema and entertainment. She left behind a rich body of work that spanned seven decades and influenced generations of Filipino viewers. She also inspired many people with her grace, dignity, and generosity.
She received many honors and awards for her achievements and contributions to Philippine culture and society. In 2003, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from FAP Awards. In 2005, she was one of the first inductees on Eastwood City Walk of Fame. In 2022, she was honored by The Philippine Post Office with a commemorative stamp.
She was also a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt. She was survived by her daughter Grace, her son-in-law Neil Llamanzares, her grandchildren Brian, Hanna, and Nika, her nephews Joseph and Jeffrey, and many more family and close friends.
Susan Roces was a true Filipina and a national treasure. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Rest in peace, Susan Roces.
