Danny Ledesma Mandia, known as the Father of Modern Filipino Dubbing, passes away

Danny Ledesma Mandia, known as the Father of Modern Filipino Dubbing, has passed away.

Mandia’s wife, Bea de la Paz, confirmed the news to GMA News Online, saying he passed away past 10 p.m. of October 16 at Manila Doctors Hospital. He was 70 years old.

The Certified Voice Artist Program (CVAP) also dedicated a Facebook post for their “Godfather,” remembering him as a “mentor, a friend, and a father for so many of us who looked up to him.”

“As the Father of Modern Filipino Dubbing, he transformed the way we use our voices in the industry, shaping the future of voice artistry in the Philippines. His loyalty, commitment, and dedication to the craft, his passion, and his strong belief in the power of storytelling through voice inspired generations of artists to follow their dreams," wrote CVAP.

He was also remembered for his pure heart for the community, teaching the members not just how to perform but also how to use their voices to "inform, inspire, involve, and illuminate."

“We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones during this time. Rest in peace, Sir Danny. Your voice, your legacy, and your impact will never be forgotten.”

CVAP and CreatiVoices Productions will hold a tribute for Mandia on October 20, 1 p.m. The location is to be announced.

Mandia's "Final Curtain Call" will be held at the Resurrection Chapel of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Quezon City (also known as Claret Church) from October 20 to 22, his wife Bea de la Paz said.

A Mass will be held on "opening night" on Sunday, October 20 at 6 p.m. Another Mass will also be held on Tuesday, October 22 at 6 p.m.

"Ikinatutuwa ng aming pamilya ang inyong pagdalo at pagmamahal. Alinsunod sa kasiyahan ni Ama, maaari lamang na huwag nang magdala ng bulaklak. Nagpapasalamat kami sa inyong pakikiramay at panalangin para kay Ama," Mandia's wife wrote.

In an interview posted in July by The VoiceMaster, the Facebook page of CVAP founder Pocholo De Leon Gonzales, Mandia shared that he started his dubbing career in 1991 after being invited by a friend to do translations and eventually became a dubbing supervisor.

From there, he learned how to direct dubbing.

Among his dubbing directorial works include “Meteor Garden,” “Magic Knight Rayearth,” “Zenki,” “Btx,” and “Saber Marionette J." He also voiced Smee in “Peter Pan.”

— Carby Basina/CDC/KG, GMA Integrated News