No more booming laughter from Subas

MANILA, Philippines - “I will forever remember Subas for his booming laughter. It’s a hearty kind of laughter. When he made a good putt, he would laugh out so loud, screaming with glee at the same time, and you could hear it from miles away.”

That’s Noel Trinidad remembering his buddy Subas Herrero and co-star in the ’70s gag show Champoy who died from complications of diabetes Thursday afternoon, March 14, in New York where he and his family have been staying these past three years.

An American citizen (of Mexican descent), Subas would have turned 69 on April 3, and Noel and friends (director Peque Gallaga among them) have already been preparing to roast him in a planned big party in the US.

Noted for his performances in comedy (mostly in television) and in action movies in which he usually played villain, Subas is survived by his wife Maripaz and their children Sandra, Marinez, Maripaz Jr., Marimi and Richard, all of whom except Richard (nicknamed Cutuy, member of the band Chapter 2) are in the US.

Noel said that he’s not yet sure if Subas’ remains will be brought to the Philippines or buried in the States.

“My only wish is sana a network will do a tribute show for Subas,” said Noel, in lieu of the roasting big party. “After all, he’s an icon in the TV industry.”