‘Burlesk King’ director Mel Chionglo dies

The Directors’ Guild of the Philippines Inc. announced on Saturday that filmmaker Mel Chionglo had died.

"The Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, Inc. mourns the passing of director Mel Chionglo. He lived a productive life and greatly contributed to Philippine cinema in memorable ways," read a DGPI Facebook post.

The organization lauded Chionglo's films “Playgirl,” “Midnight Dancers,” “Lagarista,” and “Burlesk King.”

Burlesk King was screened at the 2000 Berlin International Film Festival's Panorama section.

Chionglo was also remembered as an industry leader and mentor who was respected for the wisdom he would quietly share with veteran colleagues and upcoming filmmakers.

The late film director was a founding member of the DGPI, and served as its president in 2008.

The DGPI also posted details on Chionglo's wake: there would be a viewing starting Sunday at Hall B of the Arlington Memorial Chapels on Araneta Avenue, and a cremation service would be held on Thursday, Sept 26. — DVM, GMA News