Rosalio "Yoyong" Martires peacefully passed away on June 18, 2024.
PBA legend, Olympian, comedian, and former Pasig Vice Mayor Rosalio "Yoyong" Martires peacefully passed away on Tuesday, June 18.
His daughter confirmed the development on Wednesday morning.
"He was surrounded by his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He lived a very adventurous and colorful life. A loving husband, a doting father, a caring grandpa, a self-made man, an Olympian, a prolific basketball player, a comedian, a devoted public servant, and a child of Christ," read the post by Moby Leah Martires.
"Difficult steps to follow, indeed. You served God, our country, and your fellow men. Rest in Peace, papa. We love you!"
Martires previously suited up for the San Miguel Beermen in the Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association and the PBA from 1972 to 1982.
The 5-foot-8 guard was then called up for national team duty, winning the 1973 Asian Basketball Confederation (ABC) Championship at home with fellow PBA legends Robert Jaworski, Bogs Adornado, and Ramon Fernandez.
He was also part of the Philippine basketball team who participated in the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, where he averaged 5.8 points, and 2.2 rebounds. The squad finished 13th.
Martires would continue representing the Philippines in the 1974 World Championship held in Puerto Rico, averaging 5.6 points.
"Rest in peace with eternal love, my dear friend and former national basketball team and San Miguel teamate, Pasig City Councilor and former Vice Mayor YOYONG MARTIRES. You have served your consituents well. I will forever be proud of your accomplishments. Your legacy as a sportsman and as a public servant will remain an inspiration to many. Maayong pagpahuway, Yong!" wrote his teammate Mon Fernandez.
"Yoyong Martirez, one of my heroes on the hardcourt growing up, passed away. RIP. Always remembered," added Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and Gilas Pilipinas coach Tim Cone.
"PBA legend & former Pasig Vice Mayor Rosalio (Yoyong) Martirez passed away last night. He was 77. Rest in peace! We were together during the EASL Final 4 last March, he was quite a man! God bless Yoyong" chimed in sports analyst Quinito Henson.
Martires would later go on to have a successful acting career as a comedian, playing alongside comedy trio Tito, Vic & Joey in--a friendship that remained with occasional appearances in Eat Bulaga.
He would also perform in multiple TV5 shows such as Bawal na Game Show, John En Ellen, Fill in the Bank, Chika Besh, O My Dad, and Wow Mali!
Martires moved on to public office, serving as the sixth vice mayor of Pasig under mayors Vicente and Robert Eusebio. He then became a two-time councilor from the second district.
"Konsi Yoyong Martires was a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on our community. His passion for public service, unwavering commitment, and tireless efforts have inspired generations of leaders and touched countless lives. Throughout his tenure, he worked diligently to address the needs and concerns of our fellow Pasigueño, always striving to create positive change and foster a sense of unity," the Barangay San Miguel post read.
"We remember Konsi Yoyong Martires as a compassionate advocate, a trusted friend, and a true pillar of our community. His warmth, kindness, and infectious smile will forever be etched in our hearts. We are grateful for the invaluable contributions he made during his time in public office, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to shape our city's future."
The viewing will be held at Chapels C and D of The Evergreen Chapels and Crematory in Maybunga, Pasig. It will start on June 19 at 7 p.m.
Interment will be at the Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig.