Lily Monteverde, affectionately known as “Mother Lily” and the founder of Regal Entertainment, has passed away at the age of 85. The news was confirmed by her son, Goldwin Monteverde, on Sunday, August 4. Mother Lily would have turned 86 on August 19.
As of press time, Regal Entertainment and other relatives have not yet issued a formal statement regarding her death.
Mother Lily’s passing comes just a week after her husband, Leonardo “Father Remy” Monteverde, passed away on July 29. He was laid to rest on August 3.
Born Lily Yu Chu, she founded Regal Entertainment in August 1962 and served as its president and CEO until her death. Her daughter, Roselle Monteverde, is the company’s COO and vice president.
Throughout her career, Mother Lily produced over 300 films and played a significant role in launching the careers of notable stars such as Gabby Concepcion, Dina Bonnevie, Alma Moreno, and Maricel Soriano.
She is renowned for producing successful films such as the “Mano Po” anthology, “Scorpio Nights,” “Blue Moon,” the “Shake, Rattle, & Roll” series, and “My Monster Mom.”
Among her numerous accolades, she received the Ina ng Pelikulang Pilipino Award in 2017 and the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 from the Film Development Council of the Philippines.