THE movie industry mourns the passing of yet another denizen, 1950s singer-actor Val Castelo, cousin to Senate President Tito Castelo Sotto and uncle to singer Anthony Castelo, on January 20 in Henderson, Nevada points to an important lesson in preserving family.

At the peak of his career in the 1960s, Val packed up and moved to the United States to provide better opportunities for his family.

The family was based initially in Cerritos, California in 1967.

A Facebook post prepared by his children read in part: Val dedicated his life to raising his children and for the next two decades, through steadfast commitment, he pivoted his career to working in distribution at Purex Corporation, and ultimately enjoying early retirement.

Valentin B. Castelo was born on October 18, 1932 in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, the son of Oscar Tombo Castelo, former Secretary of Justice and Secretary of National Defense, and Pura Ballesteros Castelo.

He grew up in Quezon City and attended Letran College in Manila. In 1955, he pursued a career as an actor and singer, performing at Manila Grand Opera House.

He signed with LVN Pictures and appeared in his first movie, “Ikaw Kasi” with Nida Blanca and Nestor de Villa.

In 1957, he was given a leading role in the movie, “Conde de Amor” alongside Nita Javier, followed by “Hiwaga Ng Pag-ibig,” co-starring Lita Gutierrez.

These films were followed by a succession of costume pictures, romantic comedies and love stories. Among them, Nasaan Ka Irog, Phone Pal, Kastilaloy.

He continued acting until the next decade, becoming one of LVN Pictures’ leading matinee idols.

His last major film was “Palos: Counterspy,” co-starring

Bernard Bonnin and Helen Gamboa-Sotto in 1966.

In a related post, Anthony Castelo thanked his uncle for having paved the way for him, Tito, Vic and Val Sotto into the world of entertainment.

Val is survived by his loving wife, Leila Ilaga Castelo, their five children and six grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 9:00 a.m at Palm Eastern Mortuary & Cemetery in Las Vegas, Nevada.