Raymund Isaac's Husband 'Heartbroken' Over Premature Postings About Photog's Passing
Three days after celebrity photographer Raymund Isaac’s passing, his spouse is speaking up for the first time on social media. Jayson Vicente and Isaac were married in the U.S. last July 15, just one week before the latter was hospitalized for complications related to COVID-19.
In a post on Facebook on Tuesday morning, September 7 (Monday evening in the U.S.), Vicente said he read all the messages of condolences and support he has received since Saturday, adding that they brought him “comfort during this most difficult time.”
“However, what is more heartbreaking was that this news broke out on social media less than 12 hours after he passed,” he said. “We had hoped to get over the shock of his passing first. Words cannot describe the pain of losing a loved one, a spouse. We also needed time to get our affairs in order. The premature postings have caused major financial & legal repercussions for us—compounded by the fact that I am distanced from managing it in person. This is very disappointing & frustrating!”
Social media lit up late afternoon to early evening on Saturday with expressions of sadness and shock when news first started circulating that Isaac had died. However, there had been no word from an official source about his passing. Instead, many of those grieving seemed to cite other unconfirmed posts elsewhere on social media.
At least two news platforms came out with the news ahead of an official statement from the family. Both merely based the report on expressions of condolences from celebrities on social media.
The premature postings led singer and actress Lea Salonga, a close personal friend of Isaac, to chime in with her thoughts. although she did not specifically refer to Isaac’s passing. She has since deleted the post.
“Until we get actual confirmation, we say nothing,” she said. “And until the familymakes an announcement, we don’t preempt. And whoever does preempt is an asshole. So don’t be an asshole.”
Vicente expressed his appreciation to Salonga and former model and editor Myrza Sison, another close friend of Isaac, who he said reached out to him to confirm the news “but stayed silent.”
“He lived a full life, always pushing the boundaries to improve this world through his big humble heart, creativity, generosity, and wicked sense of humor,” Vicente said. “Everyone loved him. I will love him forever!
“May our experience teach us all to show respect & compassion for the grieving family. Let them make the announcement when it is time.
“While our families and I continue to appreciate the love and messages, we ask that you all respect our privacy in these most tragic times."
