Known in real life as Ernesto Fajardo, Pinoy veteran comedian Don Pepot passed away last January 19 at the age of 88. The cause of death was due to COVID-19 and acute respiratory failure last Tuesday night, January 18, at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center sa Quezon City according to his son who posted the news on Facebook. The veteran comedian was first hospitalized last October but was able to recover from his condition. He returned to the hospital in December until his passing this month.

“Our beloved Ernesto ‘Don Pepot’ Fajardo passed away yesterday at 8:32 pm due to acute respiratory failure; covid confirmed critical. His wake will be at Solennelle Funeral Homes at Valenzuela, along Maysan Road.

“January 20, 2022 - Day 1: Family members only
January 21, 2022 - Day 2: Relatives & Friends
January 22, 2022 - Day 3: Open to the Public

“Eternal rest grant unto him O'Lord. May his soul rest in peace. We love you, papang!”

Having started a career in comedy as early as the ‘60s, Don Pepot was known to work alongside Pinoy comedy icons like Dolphy, Babalu, and Apeng Daldal. His last film was the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival entry Si Agimat, Si Enteng Kabisote, at Si Ako. In 2005, he received the FAMAS Lou Salvador Sr. Memorial Award for his contributions to the film industry.

Don Pepot’s wake and cremated remains will be open to the public at the Solennelle Funeral Chapels sa Valenzuela City following a private wake by his family.