Actress Liezl Martinez succumbed to lung cancer; peacefully passed away in her sleep
by Leony R. Garcia
Saturday morning is sad day in show business as news of actress Liezl Martinez’s death is all over in the news and social media.
Martinez’s maternal uncle, Cheng Muhlach, confirmed the former child actress’s death at 6:15 am due to Stage 4 lung cancer, as reported at radio station dzMM.
The actress was reportedly hospitalized since Monday, March 9.
Meanwhile her mother, actress Amalia Fuentes confirmed the news to Inquirer Newspaper.
Inquirer Entertainment’s Editor Bayani San Diego said that Fuentes broke down several times while talking about Liezl, her only daughter, who she described as “beautiful” and “strong.”
She would have been 48 on March 27.
Liezl, wife of multi-awarded actor Albert Martinez, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008. She recovered from this, but in 2011, she was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer.
Coming from a popular showbiz clan, Liezl started her showbiz career which spanned several decades as a child star. Among her movies were: “Portrait of an Angel,” “Liezl at ang 7 hoods,” and “Ibulong Mo sa Puso.”
Liezl and Albert’s relationship was reputed as one of the most solid in showbiz. They have been married for three decades.
Throughout her battle with cancer, Liezl had the support of Albert, who in earlier interviews said that he would make sure that she lives “a normal a life as possible.”
Despite her condition, Liezl was still able to serve as one of the members of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). She and Albert have three children: Alyanna, Alfonso and Alissa.
Family friend Shirley Kwan who is also the manager of Albert, said in a statement that the actress “peacefully passed away in her sleep.”
“Liezl is surrounded by her beloved husband, Albert; precious children; loving mother, Amalia; father Bobby; and her relatives at this time of love and grief,” said Kwan.
As of press time, it was announced that her wake will be at Arlington Memorial.
