ABS-CBN’s seasoned showbiz broadcaster Mario Dumaual has been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) following a heart attack, his family said Thursday, as they sought prayers for their patriarch.
In a post on Facebook, Miguel Dumaual, also an ABS-CBN reporter, said it “has been a difficult week,” but they are getting by because of a steady stream of well wishes from family friends and the public.
“Papa suffered a heart attack last Monday and remains under critical care today, three days on.
"But he can now at least tell us, during the few times he’s given his phone while isolated, that he misses and wishes to be with us.
"I’ve never treasured a message so much after what Papa went through and is still hurdling,” Miguel said in his post.
He added that his father “has never been confined in my 32 years, so this experience has been overwhelming.”
As Mario continues his journey to recovery, his friends and well-wishers are appealing for prayers and positive thoughts.
The Dumaual family firmly believes that in the coming days, they will have even more reasons to be grateful, including the joyous moment when Mario returns home.
Angeli Valenciano, wife of Gary Valenciano, also expressed her deep concern for Mario's well-being.
Recounting a recent encounter, she revealed how she hugged Mario and urged him to stay strong, fearing anything untoward might happen to him. The duo even took a selfie together, unaware of the imminent health scare.
“Please could you please pray for the recovery and healing of our good friend from ABS-CBN TV Patrol’s Mario Dumaual, one of my sweetest and dearest friends in showbiz,” said Valenciano in her post.