Dolphy: The Father of National Smile

[hr]What is still out there left unsaid about the King of Philippine Comedy? I hope I can still find some wonderful words to describe the man. I am certainly struggling to juggle with words.

Last night marked one of the country’s heart-breaking episode. It wasn’t only the Quizon’s family that lost it’s father. The Philippine lost its Father of National Smile, the very person who stood for happiness when there is loneliness, natural talent when we lose our sight on our gift, resiliency amidst trials, hope when the future seemed so dark, and success when failure didn’t seem to end— in a nation where comedy is everything.

And so the final bow of the “King” who made us all laugh to death while our kids were making their home work and our parents were preparing the dinner. Dolphy’s sitcom was not a distraction at all. It served as ice breaker for the frozen mind caused by tough assignments, long quizzes, and periodical exams.

I can say this because I grew up in a very small town in Quezon Province with his masterpieces on a black and white television. I grew up watching John en Marsha. I studied my lessons while watching Home Along The Riles, a show where I would only see the young Maybelyn dela Cruz on TV (and I would later have a chance to witness her wedding and meet Mang Dolphy in flesh, thus this photo).

My generation is probably when Dolphy was in his finest but that never faded at all. I’m proud to have seen his natural acting, a very smooth execution of talent and skill. His is an entertainment that never had to be offensive. It wasn’t just a comedy. It was an art.

It was, and will always be an art, for me and for those who appreciate the embedded message of his art work that reflects and covers our society and social issues. He represented our beliefs, our truths, our longing, our desire, our voice, and our hope for a better country, a happy country. He never failed to relay and act for us. He represented the Philippines well in the international stage. His art work is not a business or a simple exercise of passion for the art. It is a dedication to his talent shared to move the country.

Mang Dolphy inspired us in so many ways, obviously. He let us see how one man can make a huge impact in a nation where poverty seems be a norm. He let us see how a life transformation can happen if we would only dedicate our time, effort, and heart to our craft. He inspired us to live a happy life despite troubles, and pains, and sufferings that would consume us one day after another. When we’re back home, after a long day of work, we simply turn on our television and watch him and we’d get a good, tight sleep. And then we survive another day.

Things are different now, though. And I can only wish the children in this generation could get the same entertainment as I did. Somehow, whatever I am now shares a part of Dolphy’s masterpieces. Probably, while growing up, he planted a seed in me that I’m able to use now. Probably, while growing up, he was able to give me such a subliminal message that change my perception about life. Probably, he became a father to me, too.

There is a good in goodbye. And such goodness you’ve planted in me will never die. Mang Dolphy, it’s a job well done. Your work is finished. But there will be millions people who will continue the fight for what you stood for. Please count me in.

Indeed, heaven is happier now with you up there. One day, we’ll see you again. And then we can only smile. Farewell to the Father of National Smile. May you rest in peace.