The Philippine music industry is in mourning following the tragic demise of renowned reggae artist Kokoi Baldo, aged 44, who passed away in a fatal accident on December 8, 2023. Baldo’s sudden death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from stars and musicians who revered his musical prowess.
Juan Manuel Ubaldo, better known by his stage name Kokoi Baldo, gained prominence as a finalist on The Voice Season 2 and was affectionately dubbed the “Bob Marley of the Philippines.”
The fatal accident occurred in Bacolod City early on Friday morning when Baldo lost control of his motorcycle while attempting to overtake a car on the Circumferential Road in Barangay Mandalagan. Tragically, he was struck by a 10-wheeler truck carrying sugarcane, resulting in a fatal impact that claimed his life.
The accident’s severity led to the tragic loss of Baldo, a beloved figure in the music industry. His manager, Sam, confirmed the devastating news on social media, urging privacy for Baldo’s family and friends during this challenging time while expressing heartfelt gratitude for the support and love.
Kokoi Baldo’s unexpected demise near the Circumferential Road in Bacolod City at 1:30 a.m. on December 8, 2023, has prompted authorities to detain the truck driver, Bunny Flor, for investigation at Police Station 3 in Bacolod City.
Authorities are diligently investigating the circumstances of the accident to ascertain legal responsibilities and understand the sequence of events leading to the tragic incident.
The Voice Season 2 contestant and reggae singer Kokoi Baldo passed away this Friday, December 8. pic.twitter.com/2wGLqmp25o
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) December 8, 2023
Baldo, born Rodel Baldo on September 22, 1989, in Negros Oriental, Philippines, rose from humble origins to become a musical sensation. His participation in “The Voice of the Philippines” in 2014 showcased his unique reggae style and garnered him a widespread fan base despite not winning the competition.
l putaanging inaaaa naiyak ako. Rip Kokoi Baldo. 😭😭😭😭💔💔💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/oOGTOdfreU
— Joe Hanne (Grand Winner That’s my Tomboy sa Mars) (@AngelOfPeaceTea) December 8, 2023
Known for infusing Philippine island melodies with reggae, Kokoi Baldo’s music resonated with diverse audiences, showcasing emotional depth through his guitar skills and vocals. His compositions often conveyed themes of love, unity, and resilience, transcending cultural boundaries and captivating listeners worldwide.
Baldo’s legacy as a musical icon continues to thrive through his captivating stage presence and authentic expression in each musical piece. His evolving career and ability to blend genres have solidified his position as a distinguished artist, leaving his growing fan base eagerly anticipating future chapters in his musical journey.
