Mahal passes away at 46

Mahal, whose real name is Noeme Tesorero, has passed away. She was 46 years old.

The news was confirmed to GMA News Online on Tuesday by the comedienne's stepmother Josefa Tesorero, who refused to be interviewed and share further details on the cause of death.

"Hindi muna ako tatanggap ng interview, please. Hindi pa namin kaya. Sorry," Josefa told GMA News Online.

Mahal's US-based sister Irene Tesorero confirmed to GMA News Online that the actress died of "gastro" and COVID-19.

Irene also said Mahal died at a hospital in Batangas, where she was staying with her friend Mygz Molino.

Mahal first appeared on television in 1988 through the GMA noontime show "Lunch Date."

She has since starred on several Kapuso shows, including "Idol Ko si Kap," "Bahay Mo Ba 'To?" and the recently concluded "Owe My Love."

In a previous episode of "Tunay Na Buhay," Mahal shared her motto, which was to keep on smiling despite the problems life throws at you.

"Huwag mo munang isipin mga problema. 'Wag dadalhin yung problema sa mga show. Smile ka lang (Don't think of problems. Don't bring your problems to the shows. Just smile)," she said.

Rest in peace, Mahal. – RC/NB, GMA News

An earlier version of this story misstated Mahal's age. She was 46, not 44. We regret the error.