‘Buhay na buhay’: Eddie Gutierrez debunks death hoax

Veteran actor Eddie Gutierrez has broken his silence after false reports of his death circulated online, assuring the public that he is alive, recovering, and grateful for the continued support of fans.

In a video shared by his daughter, actress Ruffa Gutierrez, Eddie directly addressed the rumors that surfaced following his recent medical treatments abroad.

“Ako po si Eddie Gutierrez. May kumakalat na fake news na ako raw ay pumanaw na. Hindi po totoo ‘yon. Buhay na buhay po ako. I’m still alive and kicking,” he said with a smile.

Message of strength and gratitude

Ruffa described the video as her father’s “pre-birthday message,” shared as he continues to recover from a serious spine infection that required two medical procedures in Singapore. Earlier updates from the family said his condition has been steadily improving.

Eddie said the fake reports prompted him to speak publicly, choosing to respond with humor and faith.

“Hindi pa ako namamatay. Binigyan pa ako ng Panginoon ng ilang taon. I’ll be turning 84 on February 6,” he said.

“Nagpapasalamat ako na nandiyan ang asawa ko, si Annabelle Rama. Kung hindi dahil sa kaniya, baka maging totoo na ang tsismis.”

Family at the center of recovery

As he continues to heal, Eddie said his family remains his greatest source of strength.

“Yung mga anak ko—si Ruffa, Richard, Raymond, Elvis, Rocky, Ritchie Paul, Monching, TonTon—lahat sila nagbibigay sa akin ng saya,” he said, adding that he especially cherishes time spent with his grandchildren at home.

Reassuring longtime fans

Toward the end of the video, Eddie addressed his supporters, urging them not to believe false information circulating online.

“Huwag po kayong maniniwala sa fake news. Buhay na buhay po ako,” he said.

“Sa lahat ng nagdasal, sa mga tagahanga ko—lalo na ang mga senior citizens—maraming salamat po. Huwag kayong mag-alala.”

His message drew emotional responses from fans who have followed his career in film and television for decades.

Birthday message from Ruffa

In her caption, Ruffa said the family is preparing to celebrate her father’s birthday on February 6.

“As he turns 84 this February 6, we celebrate a life filled with love, strength, and grace. Cheers to good health and many more beautiful moments ahead. We love you always,” she wrote.

Earlier this year, Eddie also thanked supporters in a New Year message, expressing appreciation for prayers and well wishes. According to Ruffa, he is expected to return abroad by March for another medical procedure, with the family remaining optimistic about his recovery.