Eric Quizon has spoken up to defend the legacy of his father, Dolphy, amid discussions on why the King of Philippine Comedy has yet to be named a National Artist.
Dolphy, whose real name is Rodolfo Quizon Sr. passed away on July 10, 2012 due to multiple organ failure secondary to complications brought about by severe pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and acute renal failure. He was 83 years old at the time of his passing. His career spanned more than six decades, during which he became one of the most recognizable and influential figures in local films and television.
READ: Epy Quizon reveals he still receives an 'allowance' from his late father Dolphy
In an interview with PEP, Eric explained that there have long been objections to granting his father the National Artist title, with some critics allegedly questioning the substance of Dolphy’s work.
“Because, honestly, sinasabi kasi nila ang mga pelikula ng daddy ko daw walang substance, walang laman, puro slapstick,” Eric shared, recalling the arguments he has heard over the years.
While Eric did not identify who these critics were, he made it clear that he strongly disagreed with their assessment. “I beg to disagree,” he said, before explaining why he believes such views overlook the heart of Dolphy’s films.
Eric pointed out that beneath the humor, his father’s work consistently revolved around values that resonated deeply with Filipino audiences. “Pag pinanood mo ang pelikula ng daddy ko, parating he talks about family and kids at pagmamahal,” he said. “Parating may family, may touch na ganoon… my dad gives importance to family.”
Beyond themes and storytelling, Eric stressed that Dolphy’s broader contribution to the country should also be taken into account. He noted how his father’s work brought joy to millions of Filipinos across generations.
READ: Zsa Zsa remembers Dolphy on his 13th death anniversary
“Also, sa akin, yung contribution ng daddy ko sa bansa natin, napatawa niya, napasaya niya, kahit sa sandali, sa panonood sa kanya.” Eric said.
“Napasaya niya ang maraming Pilipino. So I think that’s a feat na hindi mapapantayan ng kahit na sino,” he added.
Eric also revealed that the concern for the National Artist award is not new to their family. According to him, Dolphy had already been nominated several times while he was still alive, but the recognition was never granted. Despite this, his family would be grateful if their patriarch were to receive the honor.
“So alam mo, of course, if they give it to him, thank you. It’s a big… it’s a huge honor,” he said.
Dolphy himself had spoken calmly about the issue. In 2010, at a time when he was considered a strong candidate for the National Artist Award amid disputes, he shared that he was at peace with whatever the outcome might be. “Kung ibibigay, ibibigay... Kung hindi ibibigay, okay din lang sa akin,” Dolphy said then.
He also acknowledged that not everyone supported his nomination, noting the competing interests involved. “Talagang maraming nagti-text sa mga talk shows, sa radyo. Actually nagpapasalamat ako sa Quezon City Council na in-approve ng buong council ang National Artist [Award] ko. Siyempre may mga sumasalungat, hindi mawawala 'yon [dahil] nagpapasa sila ng mga manok nila,” he explained.
Despite these statements, the prestigious recognition was never awarded to him. Since his passing, however, support for Dolphy’s recognition has continued to grow, with artists and public figures openly expressing their belief that his body of work deserves national acknowledgment.
Among those who have spoken up is theater icon and award-winning performer Lea Salonga. In 2024, during the CCP Gawad para sa Sining, she shared that while she was grateful for supporters campaigning for her own recognition, she would rather see Dolphy honored first.
“There are folks far more deserving [than me] and whose National Artist Awards are long overdue. I would love to see somebody like Dolphy, for example,” Lea said in an interview with ABS-CBN.
“I think he should be heralded first. Hopefully, I will be given an opportunity to champion him,” she added.
READ: Lea Salonga hopes to champion Dolphy as National Artist
Lea also emphasized the broader cultural impact of Dolphy’s work, saying, “We have to judge him as an artist for his body of work. He has contributed so much— even those where he is cross dressing. It lends so much tolerance and acceptance towards the LGBTQIA+ community. Even if that was not his intention at the time. That was an effect.”
Momentum for Dolphy’s recognition gained further ground in July 2025, when a lawmaker filed a resolution in the House of Representatives seeking to nominate and declare him a National Artist. Manila 3rd District Representative Joel Chua filed House Resolution 41, citing Dolphy’s extensive achievements in the film industry.
READ: Remembering Dolphy through his most memorable roles on TV and in film
Rep. Chua described the move as a “fitting tribute for the actor,” who marked his 97th birthday anniversary on July 25, 2025. He also urged the House Committees on Creative Industries and Basic Education and Culture to conduct hearings and take steps to formally submit Dolphy’s nomination to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. According to Rep. Chua, Dolphy deserves the title because of his “magnificent body of work and for championing Filipino values for all generations.”
Dolphy’s journey in entertainment began early. He started performing on stage as a chorus member at 17 and entered films at 19 after being given his first break by Fernando Poe Sr., initially taking on bit roles. Over time, he built a filmography of more than 200 movies, earning praise for his ability to give depth and sincerity to every role.
He became especially beloved for television classics like John en Marsha and Home Along da Riles, as well as iconic films such as Omeng Satanasia, Father & Son, Nobody, Nobody But... Juan, Captain Barbell, and Markova Comfort Gay, among many others.
In recognition of his legacy, ABS-CBN named one of its oldest studios and performance venues as the “Dolphy Theater” in 2008, honoring the King of Comedy whose work continues to shape Philippine entertainment industry.