The Philippine broadcasting community is mourning the loss of veteran radio personality DJ Martin D, who passed away on the morning of September 27, 2026. The news of his death was confirmed by his family, marking the end of a career that spanned three decades at one of the country’s most prominent FM stations.
His daughter, Yey Carteciano, shared the news through a tribute on social media, noting that the family is still processing the loss of the beloved broadcaster. Known for his smooth delivery and deep connection with listeners, Martin Dipasupil became a staple of the airwaves under his “Martin D” moniker, particularly during his long tenure with ABS-CBN’s FM radio division.
A Legacy at 101.9 FM
Dipasupil’s career in radio began in November 1996 when he joined DWRR 101.9 FM, a station then known as WRR 101.9 For Life. He remained a constant presence through the station’s various iterations, including its transition to MOR 101.9. Over thirty years, he evolved from a young talent into a senior figure in the industry, mentoring younger jocks and maintaining a loyal fan base even as the radio landscape shifted toward digital platforms.
His professional contributions were formally recognized by his peers when he received the Best Music Radio Jock award at the 20th KBP Golden Dove Awards. The accolade solidified his status as one of the premier voices in Philippine music radio, highlighting his ability to balance technical skill with an approachable on-air persona.
Health Challenges and Industry Tributes
In recent years, Dipasupil faced significant health hurdles while continuing to engage with his audience. In November 2023, he was diagnosed with pleural effusion, a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fluid around the lungs. Despite these medical challenges, his impact on the broadcasting community remained evident through the support of his colleagues.
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes from across the media industry began to surface. Broadcaster Laila Chikadora described Dipasupil as a “pillar of the industry,” reflecting the high regard in which he was held by fellow professionals. Colleagues and listeners alike have remembered him not only for his voice but for his resilience and the historical role he played in the growth of FM radio in the Philippines.
While the family has expressed their grief publicly, the broadcasting community continues to offer condolences to the Dipasupil family as they honor the memory of a pioneer who helped define the sound of 101.9 FM for nearly thirty years.
