Goodbye and thank you, Miss Tapia: Mely Tagasa passes away at 82

Actor Mely Tagasa has passed away at the age of 82, her daughter Gina confirmed on social media Saturday. 

"At 12:26 am today (March 24,2018) our beloved Miss Tapia has joined our Creator," Gino wrote. "The gates of Heaven open for her. We love you very much, Mommy!" 

 

At 12:26 am today (March 24,2018) our beloved Miss Tapia has joined our Creator. The gates of Heaven open for her. We love you very much, Mommy!

A post shared by gina tagasa (@ginatagasa) on

Mar 23, 2018 at 11:58am PDT

Mely Tagasa's place in the entertainment industry was cemented when she assumed the role of Miss Tapia on the '70s sitcom "Iskul Bukol."

Her round glasses, curt speech, and insistence on being addressed as a single woman remains an iconic part of pop culture. 

In direct contrast with her masungit character is her loving personality in real life. Mely Tagasa was a doting mother to her kids — but according to her daughter Lani, she's truly a disciplined worker, like Miss Tapia.

"In fact, before she had a massive stroke, she had three dubbing projects lined up!!!" Lani shared on Facebook on March 17, when she reported that her mother was still in a coma. 

Saying farewell to her dear mother, Lani wrote on Facebook Saturday: "Rest in light and love, Mommy. Paalam. Mahal na mahal kita." — AT, GMA News