The effects of the dreaded coronavirus around the world are visible crystal clear as the number of deaths have crossed over 10,000 to date and the people affected by the disease only continue to rise upwards with each passing day. Now, popular Filipino-American actor, Nico Santos, known among fans for playing the character, Mateo Liwanag, the sales associate in the hit NBC TV show, Superstore, and for starring in the worldwide blockbuster film, Crazy Rich Asians, took to his Twitter page to drop a shocking news stating his step-father, Tito Sonny, had passed away due to coronavirus. He also added saying his mother is also fighting COVID-19 while requesting everyone to pray and send healing energy to her in these dire times.

Crazy Rich Asians actor Nico Santos mourns stepfather coronavirus Tito SonnyCrazy Rich Asians actor Nico Santos mourns stepfather coronavirus Tito Sonny

Nico Santos statement on Twitter is as follows: "This is my stepdad Sonny and my mom Tita. My Tito Sonny passed away yesterday after losing his battle with COVID-19. He was a kind, caring man. Friendly to a fault. He always greeted strangers walking past him with a chipper ‘Good Morning!’ and a big smile. He had a great laugh that filled the room with joy. My mom is also fighting COVID-19. For the time being, she has not required hospitalization. The loss of my stepfather is devastating but what has gutted me is that this pandemic has kept my family apart. We were unable to be with him during his last days. I can’t hold my mother as she mourns her husband. I can’t hug my brother as he contemplates a world without his father. I can’t wipe away the tears from my nephews’ eyes as they wonder why their Lolo Sonny isn’t here anymore. I want to thank everyone of you who offered up prayers, love and assistance to our family during this difficult time. Please continue to pray and send healing energy to my mom. I hope all of you are staying safe and healthy. Rest in Peace Tito Sonny. I love you." Check out Nico Santos' statement below:

Crazy Rich Asians actor Nico Santos mourns stepfather coronavirus Tito SonnyCrazy Rich Asians actor Nico Santos mourns stepfather coronavirus Tito Sonny