Manila: Dolphy Quizon, 82, the country’s comedy king, has been honoured with a prestigious award from President Benigno Aquino for his distinguished service in the movie industry.
The comedian has been making people laugh for more than six decades.
The actor bent his knee as Aquino placed the heavy Grand Collar of the Order of the Golden Heart, the country’s highest honour, around the comedian's neck during a simple ceremony at the Malacañang Palace on Monday.
“I threw a stone at the president last May, but he gave me bread instead,” Dolphy said in a speech.
Dolphy had endorsed Aquino’s rival, Senator Manuel Villar, in the May 10 presidential polls.
Dolphy said the award was a fitting reward for his lifetime in the film industry and “a good end” to his career.
The Order of the Golden Heart, formerly known as the Golden Heart Presidential Award, was founded by the late President Ramon Magsaysay in 1954.
Dolphy “made unparalleled contributions to the Philippine movie industry as well as notable social assistance through the Dolphy Aid,” an organisation which gives scholarships to children of Overseas Filipino Workers, Aquino’s spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.
“His comedy has brought joy to millions,” Lacierda added.
