Veteran entertainment columnist and respected publicist Eduardo 'Tito Ed' de Leon has passed away.The exact cause of de Leon's death has not been publicly disclosed.De Leon has been in the industry for nearly five decades and wrote for various publications including 'Pang Masa' and 'Hataw D'yaryo ng Bayan.'A certified 'Vilmanian,' he was regarded as a devoted fan of 'Star for All Seasons' Vilma Santos and actively participated in fan activities and was a member of the Vilma Santos Solid International (VSSI) fan club.In an Instagram story, Vilma Santos-Recto posted a photo of de Leon with a text saying, 'Rest in Peace Ed De Leon, I love you my friend. Maraming salamat!'Meanwhile, the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd), as shared by its president Salve Asis, stated, 'The Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd) mourns the passing of Eduardo 'Tito Ed' de Leon, a beloved showbiz columnist who dedicated over 40 years to documenting the local entertainment industry.''Beyond his work as a writer, Tito Ed was a cherished mentor, a generous friend, and an enduring source of inspiration to many, particularly to the members of SPEEd, who awarded him The Eddys' prestigious Manny Pichel Award in 2023 for his unwavering commitment to his craft. His legacy will continue to guide the entertainment community and his memory will always remain in our hearts. #RIPTitoEddeLeon,' the statement added.De Leon's begins today, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. in Room 205SC of St. Peter Memorial Chapels on Quezon Avenue, Quezon City.
