Beloved guitarist Mark Anthony “Makoy” Portado died on Monday, August 10, after suffering a medical emergency on stage. The star suffered a heart attack during TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan’s In Between concert series in his hometown of Cagayan de Oro.
Tributes from fellow artists
Both TJ and his wife KZ paid tribute to the star. Sharing images on Facebook of them performing together, TJ penned: "People come and go. You stayed. Bai, thank you for being there since Day 1. You were one of the first to believe in my songs, my stories, and my crazy dreams - you will always be a part of me, wherever this may take me…"
Meanwhile, KZ wrote: "Thank you for being there when TJ and I were still trying to become who we are… You made our lives better, Kuya. You really did… This goodbye is painful, but I'll take comfort in knowing that you are Home now. Rest well, Kuya Makoy. We'll take it from here and we'll keep playing, for you."
A career from church to stage
Makoy had begun his guitar journey at the age of 12, playing guitar for the music ministry at a local church. He later moved to Manila to pursue his career and started playing for TJ Monterde, working together as an acoustic duo. In 2013, he met KZ and also began playing for her performances in Manila.
In recent times, he has also been an in-demand session player for renowned artists such as Sarah Geronimo, Ylona Garcia, Kyla, and Jaya. In 2026, his talent was recognised by Yamaha Music Philippines, which included him among its endorsed artists.
Fans react
Tributes flooded in as the news of his sudden death became public knowledge. Taking to Facebook, one fan commented: "Very heartbreaking RIP kuya Makoy Portado." Another added: "Rest in Peace Makoy Portado. We will miss your guitar skills."
A third chimed in: "My sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Macoy. May he rest in peace." A fourth shared: "My deepest and sincerest condolences to his wife and to the entire Portado family. May God give you strength, comfort, and peace during this very difficult time."
Meanwhile, a fifth reflected: "Will always remember Makoy as a humble and willing musician. He would just set up his equipment silently without demands from the tech, rest in peace Makoy and condolences KZ, TJ and to his family."
