German ‘Kuya Germs’ Moreno dies

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Popular TV host German “Kuya Germs” Moreno died early Friday, January 8, according to reports. He was 82.

Moreno suffered a mild stroke last year.

GMA Network issued a statement past 9 am on the death of Kuya Germs.

“GMA Network deeply mourns with the entire entertainment industry the passing of our beloved German ‘Kuya Germs’ Moreno.

“The Master Showman will be greatly missed by his friends and fans both here and abroad, especially those in show business, where he devoted the best years of his life. Kuya Germs was responsible for building the careers of the biggest stars we now have. The epitome of a loyal Kapuso, his dedication to the industry will serve as an inspiration to all. We pray for his eternal repose.”

Manila Vice Mayor Francisco Domagoso, more popularly known as Isko Moreno and one of the host’s protégés in showbiz, expressed his grief over Kuya Germs’ death.

“He opened the doors for me and to be honest, wala ho sigurong Isko Moreno ngayon kung walang Kuya Germs,” the vice mayor said in a statement. “Wala akong ka talent talent noon sa pagkanta o pagsayaw but he took a risk on me, at yun ang naging susi ko upang maiahon ko ang sarili at pamilya ko sa kahirapan.”

(There would be no Isko Moreno today if not for Kuya Germs. I had no talent in singing or dancing but he took a risk on me, and this was my ticket out of poverty.)

Other celebrities expressed sadness over the showbiz icon’s death. (READ: Stars mourn death of German ‘Kuya Germs’ Moreno)

Before his death, Kuya Germs hosted Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman, a late-night variety show.

He is known for hosting GMA supershow, That’s Entertainment, and has appeared in many TV shows and films. – Rappler.com