Sympathies, tributes pour as Chokoleit passes away at 46

MANILA, Philippines — Comedian Chokoleit, whose real names was Jonathan Aguilar Garcia, passed away on Saturday evening. He was 46.

The news of Chokoleit’s passing was confirmed by his talent agency, Star Magic

“Chokoleit was performing in an out of town show in Abra, and experienced difficulty in breathing after his performance,” the agency said Sunday midnight.

According to an ABS-CBN report, the comedian was brought to Abra Provincial Hospital after his show. Chokoleit’s attending physician Rosauro Seares said the comedian succumbed to pulmonary edema and heart attack.

Chokoleit’s last performance was recorded in a live video posted by the government of Abra. He was one of the guests for Kawayan Festival.

Carl Guevarra of the local band The Juans, who also performed at the Kawayan Festival before Chokoleit said he was shocked by the passing of the comedian. He described Chokoleit's performance citing that the comedian was "struggling" during the entire show.

Chokoleit is a stand-up comedian and was known for his television stint Pearly Shell in ABS-CBN’s 2004 fantaserye “Marina.” He last starred in the Metro Manila Film Fest 2018 comedy film entry “Fantastica.”

Meanwhile, celebrities and Chokoleit’s colleagues from the entertainment industry took to social media to pay tribute to him and extend their sympathies following the comedian’s passing.

His Fantastica co-star, Vice Ganda said he was saddened by the passing of Chokoleit.

"Thank you Lord for giving me a chance to meet Chokoleit and become his friend. I'm sad that we lost him," Vice Ganda wrote.

"But happy that he’ll be in a much peaceful and happier place now with you. Thanks for everything Chokie. I love you!" he added.

Thank you Lord for giving me a chance to meet Chokoleit and become his friend. Im sad that we lost him. But happy that he’ll be in a much peaceful and happier place now with you. Thanks for everything Chokie. I love you!!! Rest well my friend.

— jose marie viceral (@vicegandako) March 9, 2019

Chokoleit’s comedienne friend Pokwang also wrote a heartfelt message.

“Salamat chokie sa tawa at sa lagi mong bukas na puso at yakap sakin tuwing may hinaing ako, isa kang tunay na kaibigan ko! I love you at sobrang nagpapasalamat ako na naging kaibigan at pamilya narin kita kasi ninang ka ni Malia, pahinga na friend i love you!” Pokwang said.

Salamat chokie sa tawa at sa lagi mong bukas na puso at yakap sakin tuwing may hinaing ako, isa kang tunay na kaibigan ko! I love you at sobrang nagpapasalamat ako na naging kaibigan at pamilya narin kita kasi ninang ka ni Malia, pahinga na friend i love you!

— marietta subong (@pokwang27) March 9, 2019

Here are other celebrities’ messages for Chokoleit’s passing:

So sad to hear about chokoleit. Prayers of grace for his loved ones. RIP dear friend.

— ogie alcasid (@ogiealcasid) March 9, 2019

RIP @chokoleitWiTS. The laughter and happiness you brought to everyone will surely be missed. Such a sad day

— Paulo Avelino (@mepauloavelino) March 9, 2019

Chokoleit ???????? rest in peace ????????

— teejay marquez (@teejaymarquez) March 9, 2019

RIP, Chokoleit! :’( So sad to hear the news. You will truly be missed. You were always so kind, and full of life.

— ???????????? ???????????????????????? (@TimPavino) March 9, 2019

Another sad news.
Rest in Peace Chokoleit. My heart goes out to your family and friends during this difficult time.

— Amy Perez-Castillo (@amypcastillo) March 9, 2019

— Rosette Adel

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