Karylle shares the passing of her father, Dr. Modesto Tatlonghari, and reflects on cherished memories.

Karylle gives tribute to her father, Dr. Modesto Tatlonghari

‘It’s Showtime’ host Karylle has announced the passing of her father, Dr. Modesto Tatlonghari, on Sunday, August 11.

In an Instagram post, Karylle shared photos from the wake and some family memorabilia, reflecting on the cherished .

In her post, Karylle only had the best things to say about her dad. She described her father as a beloved man who made everyone around him feel valued.

“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my dad, Papa M, Doc, Dr. ‘M,’ Moy, Tito M…He was a beloved man who lived life fully,” she posted.

Always a presence in a room, while also making sure everyone felt seen and heard. He, too, was always seen and heard with his handsome “cute” face, youthful porma, and booming voice,” Karylle recalled. “He was a great guy, always brightening up people’s days. A Baguio boy (and Laguna lad!) at heart and topnotcher at the dental board, he loved basketball and his no-look shot.”

She fondly remembered how he always had a neon pink frisbee and a basketball ready for impromptu picnics during road trips. His philosophy in life, she noted, was simple: if your white sneakers weren’t dirty, you hadn’t played or had enough fun.

Karylle also shared her father’s love for his family and friends, mentioning how he treasured the people in his life and was always present at school events. He was the kind of father many wished they had, and she felt lucky to have him as her dad.

“He will be missed. If you were one of his favorites, I’m sure you have enough memories and kwentos about him to make you feel like he’s not too far away,” she added, noting that her father kept countless photos of those he loved in a safe.

Modesto, a dedicated dentist, left a lasting impact on his patients, many of whom felt like old friends when they crossed paths. He also embraced his role as a grandfather, playfully engaging with his grandchildren despite his initial reluctance to be called “Lolo M.”

Karylle also revealed a poignant detail about her father’s life, mentioning how he narrowly missed attending the Jamboree in Quezon City as a boy scout due to the intervention of his parents. She expressed gratitude for this decision, which she viewed as a significant extension of his life.

Reflecting on her father’s support, Karylle shared that he had watched her play Little Shop of Horrors four times, a cherished memory that was a bittersweet reminder of their bond.

“It means so much to me that he saw my play 4 times (four!),” she said. “Little Shop of Horrors was our favorite movie and, like him, a happy part of my childhood. It breaks my heart that I couldn’t have spent more time with him.”

Karylle is the only child of Modesto Tatlonghari and singer Zsa Zsa Padilla, who married in 1980. The couple’s church wedding was annulled in 2003, with the civil wedding annulment finalized in 2010.