Susan Roces

Jesusa Purificacion Levy Sonora-Poe (July 28, 1941 – May 20, 2022), known professionally as Susan Roces, was a Filipino actress. She was the wife of Ronald Allan Kelley Poe, better known as Fernando Poe Jr. Roces was regarded as the "Queen of Philippine Movies" and starred in more than 130 films and television programs. She won five FAMAS Awards, including two Best Actress wins. Luna Awards honored her with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her long-standing career and contribution to Philippine cinema. In 2005, Roces was one of the first inductees on Eastwood City Walk of Fame. She played the character "Lola Flora" on the ABS-CBN television series FPJ's Ang Probinsyano since the pilot episode in 2015. Months prior to her death in 2022, Roces was honored by The Philippine Post Office with a commemorative stamp. Early life and education Susan Roces was born as Jesusa Purificacion Levy Sonora in Bacolod, Negros Occidental on July 28, 1941. She was the daughter of Jesus Tonggoy Sonora and Purificacion Levy. Roces finished her high school studies at the La Consolacion College (LCC) in Bacolod in 1956. It was during her stay at LCC that she committed to pursue a career in acting. Her third year high school teacher Luisa Medel recognized her talent in public speaking and acting and advised her to take the same course as her for her tertiary education. After graduating from high school, Roces went to Manila to follow her mentor's advice. Personal life Roces married Fernando Poe Jr. on December 25, 1968, at the Santuario de San Jose Parish in Greenhills, San Juan. They have an adopted daughter, former MTRCB Chairperson and now Senator Grace Poe.