2 days ago
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MANILA, Philippines —The mother of stand-up comedian Gold Dagal has broken her silence and expressed grief following the death of his son.
Dagal, 38, was fatally shot on March 15 while seated inside a beer house in Angeles City, Pampanga. According to police, three unidentified men were involved in the attack, with one suspect approaching Dagal before opening fire multiple times.
Jocelyn Cruz, his mother, shared a statement on Facebook Monday, calling her son's death a targeted attack.
"March 15, 2025, the Ides of March. Someone shot my only son in the face which caused his death 9 hrs later. Doctors tried to revive him each time he would have cardiac arrest, which happened more than 10 [times]," she wrote in the caption while sharing photos of his son's wake.
Cruz alleged that Dagal had received threats prior to the attack due to jokes he made during a private stand-up performance.
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"My son is gone. A hired killer ended his life and made sure he does not survive. Why this happened? I know those he offended with his jokes during one of his stints in his stand-up comedy shows, had planned to end his life like how they constantly threatened," she said.
"They are a bunch of cowards who cannot defend themselves and their faith which was put in question through his dark humor. His jokes involved making light of subjects that are generally considered serious, taboo, or distressing, which served various psychological and social functions," Cruz added.
Dagal was known for his sharp, often provocative humor that tackled social and political issues.
His mother said he was passionate about challenging audiences and creating a space for open discussion.
"He conceptualized Roast Battle which he said will eventually teach Pinoys who are 'pikon' to thicken their hide. He said he wanted an avenue that would allow people to explore uncomfortable topics in a safe environment," noted Cruz.
"I have always reminded him that engaging in such dark humor can alienate or offend others. But some people who claim to be closest to God planned and perpetrated this crime. They killed my son, whom I raised to be good and smart and who is always handsome," she continued.
Despite the controversy surrounding his material, Cruz remembered her son as a loving and selfless individual.
"Such a short life but made meaningful because it was lived selflessly. He was consistent with his care and love for me and his three sisters. He was always the respectful and considerate child. He was always honest and funny- my parents' first grandchild, everyone's kuya, my favorite human being," wrote Cruz.
"I will miss you, my anak. Rest in peace now with Papa. I will see you again my baby boy," she ended her post.
Meanwhile, Project Jade, a non-profit organization, also paid tribute to Dagal, highlighting his advocacy work.
"Rest in power, Gold. To many, Gold was a comic with crude humor. But to us, he's one of the few people who stood up against human rights violations and indoctrination. Hustisya para sa'yo (Justicer for you), Gold. Salamat sa suporta mo sa (Thank you for your support of) Project Jade. Pahinga ka na (Rest)," they said.
On the other hand, production house Comedy Manila posted on their social media page, "We stand in solidarity with all those seeking justice for Gold Dagal. We are sending help and assistance to the show organizers while waiting for their official statement. Our thoughts and prayers are with Gold's family during this difficult time."
Authorities have yet to release further details on the investigation.
