“Multi-awarded Filipino rap icon Francis Magalona has passed away at the Medical City in Mandaluyong around noon today (March 6, 2009). He was 44.

According to TV reports, this was announced by actor Vic Sotto in the noontime variety show Eat Bulaga, where Magalona used to be one of the hosts.

Magalona, considered as a major pillar of rap music in the country, was diagnosed with leukemia in August 2008. He is survived by his wife Pia Arroyo and children Unna, Nicolo, Francis Jr., Elmo, Arkin, Clara, and actresses Maxene and Saab.” -Yahoo! Philippines

I was in our school’s library studying for my final exams. My mood was well as I covered topics after topics until I received an alarming text message from a friend that read: “Yatap na francis m. gaw. tsk” or in other words, “Patay na si Francis M., gaw. Tsk!”

Suddenly, my mood went down drastically because of that message. I was very uncomfortable while I continued studying as the sad news lingered. Deep down in me, I wanted to cry but I chose not.

I clearly remember back then when I was in kindergarten, I sang proudly Mga Kababayan in front of my classmates and teacher in school. I was not forced to sing but it was my own will, and his song was my personal choice. I grew up with an ambition that someday I will be just like him. Even with his death, that ambition is still very much alive in me.

This is a sad day indeed as a good lad left the world. And o, my real name is Francis Alex. Curious where my name Francis came from? Go figure it out.

You may be gone, but you will be remembered forever. For the last time, R.I.P. my model, my idol, my inspiration, my katukayo, Francis ‘Kiko’ Durango Magalona (October 4, 1964 - March 6, 2009).