Reggae singer and former contestant of “The Voice of the Philippines” Season 2, Kokoi Baldo, tragically passed away in a road accident in Bacolod City. The accident occurred in the early hours of the morning on Circumferential Road, Barangay Mandalagan in Bacolod City.
Juan Manuel Ubaldo, known professionally as Kokoi Baldo, was riding his motorcycle when he attempted to overtake a truck on its right side. Unfortunately, he collided with the truck and was run over. The truck driver was unaware of the accident until a pickup driver who witnessed the incident informed him.
Police Staff Sergeant Richard Dema-ala, the traffic investigator, reported that the pickup driver behind the truck witnessed the entire event. He described how Baldo overtook the truck on a curved section of the road, collided with its tire, and was subsequently run over.
Local residents noted that the accident site is notorious for its dangerous combination of curves and poor lighting, contributing to frequent accidents in the area.
Identification of Baldo was delayed due to the severity of the accident. His family eventually recognized him and he was taken to a funeral home.
Kokoi Baldo was a popular reggae artist in Bacolod City and gained wider recognition after joining “The Voice of the Philippines” in 2014, where he was a part of Team Sarah, coached by Sarah Geronimo.
On Instagram, Geronimo expressed her condolences, thanking Baldo for sharing his musical talent and life principles. She said, “Thank you, Sir Kokoi. May your soul rest in God’s presence.”
Despite not winning “The Voice of the Philippines,” Baldo showcased his talent with his band, Juan Gapang, in ABS-CBN’s “Your Moment.” The band, with Baldo as the lead vocalist, was crowned champion in the Singing Act of the show.