MANILA — Rosalio ‘Yoyong’ Martires has passed away, his family announced on Wednesday.

“He was surrounded by his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He lived a very adventurous and colorful life. A loving husband, a doting father, a caring grandpa, a self-made man, an Olympian, a prolific basketball player, a comedian, a devoted public servant, and a child of Christ," the athlete's daughter Moby Leah Martires wrote in a social media post.

"Difficult steps to follow, indeed. You served God, our country, and your fellow men. Rest in Peace, papa. We love you!"

A former Olympian, PBA great, politician, and actor, Martires made a name for himself in the local hoops scene and was also a part of the National team that competed in the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, the country’s last basketball squad that was able to play in the Summer Games.

The 5-foot-8, Southwestern University of Cebu product also played in the Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association and eventually in the PBA wherein he won two titles with San Miguel from 1972 to 1982.

‘El Presidente’ Ramon Fernandez also penned his message for his former teammate in a Facebook post.

“Rest in peace with eternal love, my dear friend, and former national basketball team and San Miguel teammate.”

“You have served your constituents well. I will forever be proud of your accomplishments. Your legacy as a sportsman and as a public servant will remain an inspiration to many. Maayong pag pahuway, Yong!”

The list of his accolades in the sport includes a gold medal in the 1973 Asian Basketball Confederation Championships (FIBA Asia Cup).

After his basketball career, he entered show business and made films together with comedians Tito and Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, and also appeared in various TV shows until the early 2020s.

Martires also served as a former vice mayor and councilor of Pasig City.     

He was 77.