NEWSFLASH

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DIREK JOEL LAMANGAN OUT OF DANGER AFTER STROKE

Makati City, May 6, 1998 - Award-winning director Joel Lamangan (The Flor Contemplacion Story) was released Monday from the intensive care unit of the Makati Medical Center five days after he suffered from cardiac arrest.

The Manila Times reports that doctors have declared Lamangan out of danger, although he will have to stay in the hospital longer to recuperate.

He has reportedly been advised to rest for six months.

Joel had been on the set of "Pusong Mamon" when he was rushed to the hospital at around 5 a.m. Wednesday. He had packed up shooting three hours before that, because he started to feel chest pains.

Because of his condition and on doctor's orders, Lamangan is no longer expected to finish the film, which is about a homosexual love affair. "Pusong Mamon" stars Eric Quizon, Albert Martinez and Lorna Tolentino.

Eric, who is line producer of "Pusong Mamon" for Viva Films, has taken over the directing job.

Before his heart attack, Lamangan was working for nine days on the movie and finished the "heavy scenes" including the dramatic confrontations and gay love scenes.