Philippines - The dazzling drag artist Bianca Castro-Arebejo, better known by her stage name Jiggly Caliente, has died at the age of just 43.

As her family announced on Instagram on Sunday morning, the popular performer passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones, family and close friends.

In recent months, the "RuPaul's Drag Race" icon had been struggling with serious health problems.

A severe infection led to Jiggly having to be hospitalized - ultimately losing most of her right leg. Just a few days before her death, she underwent a risky operation in which her right leg was completely amputated.

At first it was said that she would withdraw from the public eye to concentrate on her recovery. But now the sad certainty: Jiggly Caliente has passed away.

In a moving statement, the family paid tribute to the artist:
"Her legacy is one of love, courage and light. Even though she is no longer with us, the joy she gave and the space she opened for so many will live on forever."