Marilou Diaz Abaya Died at 57

I'm still a bit shock with the news I saw just minutes ago as a great legendary director pass away after fighting cancer for years.  Here is the news courtesy by GMA NEWS:

Multi-awarded film director Marilou Diaz-Abaya passed away Monday evening after a long battle with breast cancer. She was 57.

This was confirmed by Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, who performed final rites on Abaya at St. Luke’s Medical Center in The Fort Global City on Sunday afternoon.

A report on GMA News' "24 Oras" said Abaya died around 6:40 p.m.

This is indeed another big loss for our local cinematic industry. The genius behind the masterpieces such as Brutal (1980), Moral (1982), Jose Rizal (1998), Muro Ami (1999) and Bagong Buwan (2001) will always live in the hearts of everyone who loves her and her works.

3 years ago it is a big treat to have the chance to talk with this magnificent woman. And when I say talk, it is honest to goodness chat about cinema and film making.  It is one of the most inspiring moment of my life.  Though I never really got the chance to actually fulfill my dreams as a filmmaker, her memories will remain as a driving force when I finally embark on that road not taken... very very soon.

Direk marilou with Direk Sari

Rest in peace Direk.  You will never be forgotten.