Dionne Monsanto grieves the passing of their "Tatay" Cardo: "Love kaayo ka namo, Tay"

• Dionne Monsanto is grieving the passing of her father figure
• On Instagram, Dionne posted photos with her "Tatay" Cardo
• According to Dionne, Cardo has served their family for 4 decades
• Needless to say, many were touched by Dionne's heartfelt post

Filipino actress Dionne Monsanto took to Instagram today, September 28, 2025, to mourn the passing of a man she considered a father figure, Cardo Dingal. Sharing a photo of herself with Dingal, whom she affectionately called "Tatay," Dionne's caption was a deeply personal and touching tribute that highlighted his four decades of selfless service and love for her family.

"Our family mourns the passing of Cardo Dingal, who everyone close to us knows as and calls 'Tatay', today 28 Sept 2025," her post began.

Dionne immediately underscored the depth of their relationship, explaining that while he was not related by blood, Tatay Cardo was "a beloved part of" their family, having "served our family spanning 4 decades," which earned praise.

In a poignant statement, the former Pinoy Big Brother housemate confessed that Dingal filled a void in her life, writing, "He was more of a father to me way more than my biological father ever was." She then recalled the simple, yet profound, ways he cared for her throughout her life, detailing, "He took care of me, took me to and picked me up from school, and was always so kind." These acts of kindness painted a picture of a consistent, loving presence in her formative years.

Dionne concluded her emotional message with a heartfelt farewell in Bisaya, the language of her home province of Cebu: "Love kaayo ka namo, Tay. Magkita ra nya ta puhon. Bantayi mi ha."

The actress's moving Instagram post serves as a powerful reminder that family extends beyond blood ties and that love and service can create bonds stronger than any genetic connection.

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Dionne Monsanto is a Filipina actress and former reality TV personality who first gained public attention as one of the housemates in Pinoy Big Brother: Season 2 in 2007. Although she did not win the competition, her strong personality and charm helped her transition into showbiz. She went on to appear in various television dramas and films, most notably Tubig at Langis, where she played the role of the fierce antagonist Lucy, which earned her recognition for her versatility and intensity as an actress. After several years in the entertainment industry, Dionne eventually stepped away from showbiz to focus on her personal life. She eventually married Ryan Stalder, a businessman based in Switzerland, and relocated there. In 2023, they welcomed their first child.

As previously reported by KAMI in 2024, Dionne Monsanto penned a heartbreaking but hopeful note online. On Instagram, Dionne revealed she and her husband were expecting Baby #2. However, upon getting a check-up, they found out that their baby no longer had a heartbeat. She then shared why she had to talk it.

Meanwhile, on the same year, Dionne Monsanto was reunited with her mother. On Instagram, Dionne had posted several photos and videos of her surprise visit. In the video, Dionne's mother was visibly shocked upon seeing her daughter again. Needless to say, Dionne's post touched the hearts of countless netizens online.

Source: KAMI.com.gh