‘Filipiñana’ actress Jorrybell Agoto seeks support as cancer battle continues

Indie actress Jorrybell Agoto, lead star of the award-winning short film “Filipiñana,” has been hospitalized amid her battle with cancer and is seeking financial assistance to help cover her medical expenses.

Agoto is currently admitted to the Critical Care Unit of St. Luke’s Hospital as she battles lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

A friend of Agoto shared an update on her condition in a Facebook post, asking for prayers and financial support for her ongoing treatment.

“Our beloved Jorrybell is currently admitted to the Critical Care Unit at St. Luke’s Hospital, bravely fighting through a difficult chapter in her battle against cancer,” the post said.

Agoto is experiencing fluid buildup in the pleural area of her lungs, making it difficult for her to breathe. She currently has a Blake drain to help manage the fluid and support her condition.

Agoto’s family and friends are asking for help with her medical expenses as the cost of her treatment, hospital stay, procedures, medications, and other medical needs have continued to mount.  Those who cannot donate can still show their support by sharing the message with family and friends.

“Every donation, every share, and every prayer gives Jorrybell and our family hope and strength to keep going. Please help us give Jorrybell the chance to continue her fight.”

Agoto is known for her work in independent cinema and theater, appearing in films and Cinemalaya entries including “Tether,” “Primetime Mother,” “When This Is All Over,”  and “Cross My Heart and Hope to Die.”

One of Agoto’s notable roles was teenage tee girl Isabel in Rafael Manuel’s award-winning 2020 short film "Filipiñana." She later returned to the role for Manuel’s feature-length adaptation, carrying the character from the acclaimed short into his debut feature.

"Filipiñana" was recently selected as the Philippines’ official submission to the 99th Academy Awards for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category.