Jo Ramos' ex-hubby Lloyd Samartino worries for their son

Actor Lloyd Samartino on Monday night said he felt sad and shocked over the death of his former wife, Josephine "Jo" Ramos, daughter of former President Fidel Ramos. In an interview with GMA News' James Velasquez, Samartino also expressed concerns about their 17-year-old son, Sergio, who has been living with his mom since his parents' separation. "I was very very sad for my son because Jo and I have been apart for quite a long time already and my son grew up practically with her and this happened very prematurely," Samartino said. Early Monday, the former president's daughter succumbed to lung cancer. She had been diagnosed with the illness eight months ago but had kept it from her immediate family until about five weeks ago. Samartino said he would be giving Sergio the freedom to choose whether to remain with his mother's side of the family or transfer to his residence.

Jo's remains lie in state at Funeraria Paz in Sucat, Parañaque City. The wake will be open to the public until Friday, when the burial is scheduled to take place at the Manila Memorial Park President Benigno Aquino III has extended his sympathies to Ramos and former First Lady Ming Ramos on the death of their daughter. "Ms. Ramos’ love for, and accomplishments, in music, was testimony to the musical passion she shared with her mother; and in athletics, she participated in the national team that gained distinction for the country in the SEA Games in the 1970s," presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said on behalf of the President. — Mark Merueñas/RSJ, GMA News