'Survivor Philippines,' 'StarStruck' director Monti Parungao dies at 58
Renowned Filipino television and film director Monti Puno Parungao has passed away at age 58 following a battle with colon cancer. He was widely recognized for his work on major GMA Network programs including 'Survivor Philippines' and 'StarStruck'.
Why it matters
Parungao was a significant figure in Philippine media, known for his contributions to reality television and LGBTQ-themed cinema.
Film and television director Monti Puno Parungao, known for his work on GMA Network programs “Survivor Philippines,” “StarStruck,” and “Dear Uge,” died Tuesday, September 1. He was 58.
Parungao died at his home in Quezon City after battling Stage 4 colon cancer, according to his brother Hardy Parungao.
The Parungao family announced his passing on social media.
“It is with great sadness that the Parungao family announces the passing of Edgardo Puno Parungao III (Direk Monti) on September 1, 2026,” the family said.
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