Rey Blanco brother of Singer Rico Blanco, Dies at 50 After Battle with Skin Cancer

May 15, 2025 – Rey Blanco, the younger brother of Filipino singer-songwriter Rico Blanco, has passed away at the age of 50. His daughter, Daniela Blanco, confirmed the sad news in a heartfelt Facebook post on Thursday, May 15, just one day after his death on Wednesday, May 14.

Daniela shared a funeral announcement that included Rey’s wake and burial details. “Our daddy King has peacefully joined our Creator,” she wrote. “We love you always and forever, Dad. Like you always say: Thank you, love you.”

The wake for Rey Blanco begins today at Heaven’s Park in Biñan, Laguna (formerly known as Arlington). His interment is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, at Everest Hills Memorial Park, Muntinlupa, following a funeral mass at 1 PM at Heaven’s Park.

Mark Escueta, drummer of Rivermaya and former bandmate of Rico Blanco, also paid tribute to Rey on social media, writing simply, “Farewell, brother.”

Earlier this year, Rico Blanco had asked fans and the public for prayers after Rey was diagnosed with an advanced and aggressive form of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. In an emotional message, Rico called it their family’s “toughest battle,” expressing his hope for Rey’s healing.

“Please pray for King’s strength and healing,” Rico had written. “Only heaven really knows what’s best for my dear brother, but we are keeping our hopes up. I cannot bear to imagine a world without him in it.”

Rey Blanco’s passing has left fans, family, and friends mourning the loss of a beloved father, brother, and friend.