Ate Gay holds emotional ‘Living Funeral’ amid cancer battle

Comedian Ate Gay was honored in an emotional celebration of life as family members and close friends gathered to express their love and appreciation while he continues his battle with cancer.

Held on Thursday, October 15, at Forest Lake Memorial Parks in Biñan, Laguna, the event titled ‘Habang Naririto Ka: A Celebration of Life’ gave Ate Gay—whose real name is Gil Aducal Morales—the opportunity to hear heartfelt tributes from the people whose lives he has touched.

The gathering was a living funeral, a ceremony that allows someone to celebrate their life and receive tributes from loved ones while still alive.

Ate Gay initially alarmed netizens after sharing photographs that appeared to show a funeral. Concern turned to relief when it became clear that the images were from his celebration of life. During the gathering, the comedian became emotional as he listened to stories about the positive impact he had made on others.

“Habang nakikinig ako, ngayon ko lang nalaman na, madami na pala akong natulungan,” Ate Gay shared.

He also reflected on his ongoing recovery and the importance of kindness.

“Siguro ito yung ganti ng pagaling ko; yung maging mabuti tayong lahat,” he said.

The heartfelt messages highlighted the friendships he has built and the people he has inspired throughout his career.

Among those who attended were comedian Boobsie Wonderland and content creator Arman Salon, alongside Ate Gay’s relatives and close friends.

Boobsie delivered a touching message acknowledging the comedian’s strength and influence.

“Ikaw yung naging inspirasyon ng iba para mas maging matatag,” she told him.

Her tribute reflected the encouragement and support Ate Gay has received from friends throughout his health challenges.

Through ‘Habang Naririto Ka: A Celebration of Life,’ Forest Lake Memorial Parks encouraged people to express their gratitude, affection, and appreciation for loved ones without waiting for a final goodbye. The event brought together personal stories, shared memories, and messages of encouragement, creating an atmosphere of warmth and support for the comedian.

Ate Gay revealed his stage 4 cancer diagnosis in September 2025 after undergoing further medical evaluation of a growing lump that had begun bleeding following a performance in Canada. His condition was later identified in reports as mucoepidermoid carcinoma, a rare type of cancer.

In a September 12 Facebook post, the comedian shared that his latest test results were “clear,” with no lumps detected in his nose and neck. He also confirmed that he was continuing immunotherapy every 21 days. His encouraging update brought hope to supporters who have followed his treatment journey.

As photographs from the October 15 gathering circulated online, netizens sent prayers and messages wishing him continued recovery.

For Ate Gay, ‘Habang Naririto Ka’ was more than a gathering of family and friends. It was a chance to hear how his humor, generosity, and friendship have made a difference in other people’s lives. The celebration offered a simple but meaningful reminder: love and appreciation are best expressed while the people who matter are still here to receive them.