MANILA, Philippines — Comedian, television host, singer and actor Ate Gay, whose real name was Gil Aducal Morales, died on Sunday, Nov. 1, at the age of 55, his family announced.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook account, the family said Morales passed away peacefully while surrounded by loved ones.
“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our beloved Gil Aducal Morales, lovingly known to many as Ate Gay, on November 1, 2026. After bravely fighting for his life, while surrounded by his family, our beloved Ate Gay has peacefully passed away,” the statement read.
The family also expressed gratitude to those who offered prayers, financial assistance and support throughout the comedian's battle with illness.
“We kindly ask for your continued prayers for his eternal repose and for strength and comfort for our grieving family,” it added.
Details of his wake and funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
Born on Aug. 12, 1971, Morales became a familiar name in the Philippine entertainment industry through his comedic impersonation of Superstar Nora Aunor, whose nickname was Ate Guy. He adopted the stage name Ate Gay as a playful reference to the late actress.
Before entering the comedy scene, Morales was a member of the Singing Cooks and Waiters at Barrio Fiesta, where he developed his singing and performance skills.
He began performing in comedy bars in 1995, starting at venues such as Music Box. He eventually became a regular performer at popular comedy establishments Klownz and Zirkoh, both founded by comedian Allan K.
Beyond his performances onstage, Morales also appeared on television and in films, establishing himself as a versatile entertainer.
His health struggles became public in 2021 when he was hospitalized for severe pneumonia and later treated for toxic epidermal necrolysis, a rare and serious skin condition.
In September 2025, he disclosed that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 mucoepidermoid carcinoma, a rare type of cancer.
In October 2026, Morales held a living funeral, or celebration of life, at Forest Lake Memorial Park in Biñan, Laguna, surrounded by family and friends.
