Veteran writer-director Nestor Torre dies at 78

Nestor Torre, a prominent writer, director and journalist, has passed away. He was 78.

According to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, where Torre worked as a longtime columnist, he died from complications caused by COVID-19 on Tuesday.

"He was always larger than life and we feel his absence terribly," his niece Kat Angeli Torre said in a Facebook post. "We thank you for all of the love and support you’ve shown Tito and our family over the years."

Torre is known for his long-running entertainment column on Inquirer called "Viewfinder." He was also a former editor of the publication's Saturday Special.

He also left behind a legacy of television shows, movies, and stage musicals. He kickstarted his career by directing the late night talk show "Two for the Road" in the 60s, and went on to direct and write movies such as"Crush ko si Sir" (1971), "King Khayam and I" (1974) and "Ang Isinilang Ko Ba'y Kasalanan?" (1977).

His musicals include "Magnificat," "Cory the Musical," and "Katy.

Torre's remains will be cremated on Wednesday, followed by a Zoom Mass at 5:30 p.m. —JCB, GMA News