Robert Alejandro, Papemelroti Co-Founder, Passes Away at 60

Robert Alejandro, graphic artist and advocate for young creatives, has passed away at 60 after battling colon cancer. Also the 'Ro' and creative force behind the family-run Papemelroti, Robert leaves behind a legacy as vibrant and lasting as his art.

On November 5, Papemelroti's social media announced Robert's passing, while celebrating his life and contributions to the brand. The post shared, "Although the sorrow is great, we also want to celebrate his life, the many wonderful accomplishments and causes he championed unselfishly."

"He was a beloved brother, uncle, and friend. Robert was a vibrant, passionate spirit whose creativity, generosity, and warmth endure in the countless lives he has touched. As a co-founder of Papemelroti, his visionary spirit helped shape our brand into what it is today, bringing joy and inspiration to many."

Meet Robert Alejandro: Artist, Advocate, and Mentor

Born in 1963, Robert, also known as Kuya Robert, discovered his love for art at a young age, nurtured within the creative environment of his family's business. He made clay figurines and artwork to sell, laying the foundation for his lifelong passion for the arts.

Robert pursued a Fine Arts degree at the University of the Philippines (UP), where he later became a teacher. His diverse career spanned book illustrations, branding, advertising, product design, and environmental graphics. Papemelroti described his work as ranging from "small items like postage stamps to large projects like murals and theme park designs." 

Robert's art resonated deeply with people, as if it spoke directly from his heart. "I believe we are a wonderful and kind people. We are fun-loving, so incredibly unique, and so connected to each other. I’ve always wanted that to be seen and felt through my art," he shared with UNICEF Philippines when he was tapped to design their Christmas cards for the 75th anniversary.

An Inspiration to Young Artists

Robert's influence extended far beyond his artwork. His infectious energy and generosity left a mark on many lives, especially children.

Kuya Robert made art accessible to Filipino kids and encouraged them to embrace their creativity through various initiatives, including free online art workshops during the pandemic, his TV show Art-isKool, and teaching in public spaces such as cemeteries. He believed that "art is for everyone, and one need not have expensive art materials to be an artist."

In 1991, he co-founded Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (Ang INK), the Philippines' first and only organization dedicated to children's book illustration. Through this platform, Robert helped shape a new approach to storytelling, nurturing young imaginations with vibrant visuals.

Robert also worked with organizations such as UNICEF Philippines, PAWS, World Vision, and Habitat for Humanity, using his artistic vision to inspire hope and create positive change. His dedication even extended to Atty. Leni Robredo's Museo ng Pag-Asa and 2022 presidential campaign.

PAWS (Philippine Animal Welfare Society) paid tribute to Robert's generosity on social media, recalling his 2010 contribution of artwork for their fundraising merchandise, as well as his efforts to teach kids the importance of loving animals.

Robert's Battle with Cancer

Robert was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016 but continued to create and teach. Choosing not to undergo chemotherapy, he adopted a healthier lifestyle with guidance from his partner, Jetro Rafael of Van Gogh is Bipolar.

In a 2019 interview, Robert shared how years of depression had contributed to his condition. At the same time, the cancer diagnosis marked a shift in his perspective, prompting him to embrace self-love and live life with gratitude.

He recalled, "In the hospital bed when I woke up, I told myself: 'Okay, sandali na lang ako dito. Sa natitirang oras ko dito sa mundo, gusto ko mahal ko 'yung sarili ko...everything that's ugly. Mahal ko lahat. Then wala na 'yung depression; wala na 'yung suicidal thoughts."

Fellow artists, organizations, students, and supporters mourn his passing.

Learn how the parents of this 7-year-old nurture her talent for drawing here.