‘Survivor Philippines’ director Monti Parungao dies after battle with colon cancer

Monti Parungao, best known for directing reality TV show “Survivor Philippines” and films “Sagwan” and “Pulupot,” has died at the age of 58 after battling stage 4 colon cancer.

Monti’s demise was confirmed by his brother, Hardy Parungao, through a Facebook post on Tuesday, Sept. 1.

“It is with great sadness that the Parungao family announces the passing of EDGARDO PUNO PARUNGAO III (Direk Monti) on September 1, 2026,” Hardy said, noting that the details of the late director’s memorial service will be announced later.

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“The family is grateful for your prayers, love and support,” he added.

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Monti, who first revealed his cancer diagnosis in 2025, had been open about his health battle, sharing health updates through his Facebook page. In March, he disclosed that he had been hospitalized for more than a month and that he had undergone “three major surgeries involving [his] colon, bladder, and liver.”

“It was a long and painful journey. There were moments when the pain felt like a circus—different kinds of pain trying to outdo each other. But through all of it, I held on to faith and to the prayers that many of you offered for me,” he said at the time. “Soon I will stand again. Soon I will eat well again. Soon I will work again.”

Monti’s last Facebook post was shared on Aug. 9, where he said that his blood pressure and body temperature had already stabilized after a fever.

Monti’s other works include the film “Brothers in Law” and the TV series “Calle Siete,” “Madrasta,” and “Dear Uge.” /edv