Victor Cocoy Laurel Cause of Death Confirmed
The family of Victor “Cocoy” Laurel, the beloved stage and film actor, revealed the cause of his passing. He died due to cardiac arrest linked to multiple organ failure. Cocoy Laurel passed away on Saturday, June 14, at age 72.
His younger brother, David Laurel, spoke candidly at the Heritage Memorial Chapels in Taguig City. He explained that Cocoy had long suffered from a spinal injury sustained during a theater performance two decades ago, which led to chronic health issues. “He already had a back problem. But he was not yet doubled over. He could walk normally, no limp,” David shared. “He would sit up straight for some time. He was okay. But as it grew over time, that’s when I think the complications came in.”
Spinal Injury’s Impact on Cocoy Laurel
The injury Cocoy endured occurred in 2005 while performing in the musical The Miraculous Virgin of Caysasay. It severely damaged the lower part of his spine, leaving it fragmented. David recalled, “He had it checked, you know. It’s in pieces. So how will that mend?”
Despite doctors recommending surgery, Cocoy refused further medical procedures. “He had an aversion to hospitals,” David noted. “He was traumatized by an experience and didn’t trust doctors. He was prescribed some painkillers, but over time, they wouldn’t help the pain anymore.”
Honoring Cocoy Laurel’s Last Years
Even with his health struggles, Cocoy maintained a positive spirit. In his final months, he devoted time to church activities, painting, mentoring, and singing. David highlighted, “He would serve the church. He used to be with the choir of Santuario de San Antonio for years. That’s where he was fulfilled in his service. Every time they sing for a mass or two in San Antonio, that’s what really got him going. That was his driving force.”
Cocoy’s sister, 1980s singer Iwi Laurel, fondly remembered him as her first voice teacher and acting coach. “He was just very generous with himself, with his time, with others. Very loving, very gentle,” she said.
Singer-actor Franco Laurel called Cocoy his “No. 1 encourager” and inspiration for entering show business. After watching his uncle in musicals like The King and I, West Side Story, and Camelot, Franco shared, “I knew I wanted to be an actor because of him. It was so magical for me.”
Cocoy Laurel’s Legacy of Kindness and Talent
Actress Denise Laurel described her uncle as a “ray of sunshine” who radiated positivity. “Beyond skill, beyond singing and acting, I learned about his heart. How forgiving, how generous, how kind, and how God-loving he was. And if you talk to anybody who knows him, you would know that he would always find the best in people. He would always see what’s beautiful in them. He always likes to paint people because he finds their most beautiful features.”
Cocoy’s last public appearance was in April when he visited the wake of his close friend, National Artist Nora Aunor. He also presented a life-size painting he made of Nora to Lotlot de Leon.
The eldest of eight children, Cocoy was born to former Philippine Vice President Salvador Laurel and theater matriarch Celia Diaz-Laurel.
Viewing Schedule for Victor Cocoy Laurel
The family announced the schedule for those wishing to pay respects:
- Tuesday, June 17, 2025: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Viewing; 7:00 PM Mass at Heritage Park Chapel 2 & 3 Garden Wing
- Wednesday, June 18, 2025: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Viewing; 7:00 PM Mass at Heritage Park Chapel 2 & 3 Garden Wing
- Thursday, June 19, 2025: 1:30 PM Inurnment Mass at Santuario de San Antonio Parish, Makati City
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