Stars celebrate life and career of Raymund Isaac
Celebrity photographer Raymund Isaac passed away on Saturday, Sept. 5, after being hospitalized for COVID-19. He was 59.
Following his demise, local stars extended their condolences to the family of Isaac and his partner, Jayson Vicente.
Actress Angel Locsin said Isaac's departure is "super sad news."
"I’ll never forget na pinagluluto mo ‘ko tuwing gulay yung food sa shoot natin. Sa mga payo at paniniwala sa akin. Sa mga encouragement mo sa mga photoshoots na nakakadagdag ng confidence. Yung 80’s music mo. Isa kang alamat. Salamat sa iyong talento at kabaitan. My sincerest condolences sa mga mahal sa buhay na naiwan," she wrote on Instagram along with photo of them some years ago. She wished him to rest in peace.
Thespian Pinky Amador also recalled her last photoshoot with Isaac in March 2019.
Amador said Isaac's "talent, generosity and knack for wit, fun and laughter" will surely be missed.
"The creative industry has lost a passionate visionary. You were always thinking and planning ahead, but at the same time could be ever-so spontaneous. Pure genius!," she pointed out. "We were planning to shoot an educational series during the pandemic and your ideas were on (fire emoji)."
Actor Carlo Orosa cited"decades-worth of the loveliest most glamorous" photos.
Orosa looked back at the time when the late lensman joined a photo exhibit competition.
"Though you did not take home a prize that night, your spirit was up & celebratory anyway," he said. "I’ll always remember the life & beauty you gave to so many of us thru your photographs, but I will never forget you for your generosity, kindness, vibrancy, energy & zest for life no matter what the circumstances are. We will truly miss you @raymundisaac. My deepest condolences to your family & husband @chocol8tman."
Former basketball player Doug Kramer called Raymund a "legend" in the industry; loved by so many.
"We've worked with Raymund countless times ever since the kids were smaller. We would always work with him because our shoots were always fun for the kids. It was playtime while shooting. You're a true professional. A talented one that captured so much beautiful photos of our family. We are heartbroken. So much kwentuhan with you that we will miss. We will truly miss you raymund!"
Young star Jayda and her mother veteran singer Jessa Zaragoza also honored Isaac.
The daughter of Dingdong Avanzado said she worked with Isaac for a series of photo shoot for magazines.
"And not to mention, way before that, going back to even as early as when I was still in diapers," she related.
Jessa also opened up about her two-decade friendship with Raymund.
OPM icon Pops Fernandez thanked Isaac for being part of so many highlights in her life.
"You have captured our special moments thru your photos. isang kang napakabait at naka buting kaibigan… i will miss you and your version of “little star”…. Love you @raymundisaac. rest now…."
Broadway star Lea Salonga also sent her condolences.
In his social media post, Vicente called Isaac his husband and "guardian angel". Other celebrities who sent their condolences were Pauleen Luna, Francis Libiran, Denise Laurel, Bing Loyzaga, and Iñigo Pascual.
Celebrities Christine Babao, Angelu De Leon, and Esang also paid tribute to Isaac online.
In July, Isaac asked for prayers after he was rushed to a hospital in California, United States, due COVID-19.
Å month after, his partner revealed that Raymund was stable but remained in the ICU intubated and sedated.
On Sept. 5, Edward Issac announced the passing of his brother.
"To those who prayed with us in different parts of the world for Raymund, thank you. He will be missed by many, most of our family and those he touched," his Facebook post read.