By Christine Fabro
Theater icon and artist Celia Diaz Laurel, wife of former Philippine vice president Salvador Laurel, passed away on Monday (July 12) at 8:30 p.m. from complications of a stroke.
In a Facebook post, it was mentioned that Laurel was survived by her children Suzie, Lynnie, Cocoy, David, Larry, and Iwi.
“Our star is home where she rightfully belongs. It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Celia Diaz Laurel yesterday, July 12, 2021 at 8:30 p.m.” it stated.
Laurel was known for her contributions in the field of writing, painting, stage acting, and set and costume designing, among others.
In a press statement on Tuesday (July 13), Malacañang condoled with her family, and regarded Laurel as the “embodiment of the ideals of elegance, grace, compassion and strength”.
“Celia will best be remembered for her contribution to the development of the Philippine artistic and cultural landscape as a renowned thespian, celebrated author, accomplished painter, and advocate for the arts,” Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said.
Panelo mentioned that Laurel had 50 portrayals on stage, with almost 80 plays where she contributed as the costume and production designer.
Last May 29, Laurel’s 93rd birthday, she launched her book “My Lives Behind the Proscenium” on Facebook Live, an autobiographical book that shares Laurel’s career as an actress and a production designer.
“This was her second book on the trilogy of books Celia aimed to publish in her lifetime,” James Wilson said during the launch.
Moreso, Laurel’s granddaughter Nicole Laurel Asensio said that the book trilogy is her Lola Celia’s way of “glorifying the Master Artist above, the ultimate designer, for the incredible talents bestowed upon her.”
In Laurel’s own words, she wrote, “God gifted me with several talents. Gifts of His choice that are the clues that lead me to discern the path He intends me to follow.” – rir