A state funeral befitting a national artist of the highest caliber was held for Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, better known as Nora Aunor, at Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig yesterday.
Before being interred, Aunor’s remains were brought from Heritage Park, where her wake took place, to the Metropolitan Theater in Manila for a state necrological service.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said he will miss how Aunor, the country’s “Superstar,a “ performed as a singer and actress.
“There was no song she sang or role she played that did not reflect and evoke the emotions of listeners and viewers,” the President said in a message read by National Commission for the Culture and the Arts chairman Victorino Manalo.
Mr. Marcos also declared yesterday a Day of National Mourning to honor the late National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts.
Aunor passed away on April 16 at age 71 due to acute respiratory failure following an angioplasty.
Through Proclamation No. 870, signed on April 21, Malacañang recognized the late artist’s significant contributions to Philippine cinema, television, and music, describing her death as “a great loss to the Filipino people and to the nation’s cultural and artistic community.”
“The nation mourns and joins the family and friends of National Artist Nora Cabaltera Villamayor in this moment of grief and remembrance,” the proclamation stated.
Nora Aunor, declared a National Artist in 2022, was widely celebrated for her exceptional artistry, depth, and dedication as a performer.
Throughout her decades-spanning career, she gained droves of fans who affectionately referred to themselves as “Noranians.”
The proclamation noted that her legacy had a lasting impact on the country’s collective memory and identity, having inspired generations of actors, filmmakers, and audiences locally and internationally.
In accordance with the proclamation and the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, the national flag was flown at half-mast on all government buildings and installations across the country and in Philippine embassies and consulates abroad on April 22.
Aunor was known for playing film roles that tackled social issues and showcased the depth of Filipino storytelling.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, on behalf of the President, signed the proclamation, which was certified by the Malacañang Records Office.
Meanwhile, the family of OPM legend Hajji Alejandro has confirmed his passing but asked the public for privacy as they grieve the loss of their beloved patriarch.
Alejandro passed away on Monday following a brave fight with stage 4 colon cancer. He was 70.
In an official statement shared by his longtime manager, GR Rodis, the family expressed their sorrow and requested understanding from the public.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Son, Angelito ‘Hajji’ T. Alejandro,” the family said.
“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as our family grieves this tremendous loss. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time.”
The OPM icon, known for hits like “Nakapagtataka” and “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” had been receiving treatment after undergoing surgery in February.
His partner, Alynna Velasquez, previously revealed that he had faced complications during recovery.
Alejandro’s daughter, singer-actress Rachel Alejandro, has yet to release a public statement.
His other daughter, Barni, shared a personal tribute online, posting a video of herself singing “Ang Lahat Ng Ito’y Para Sa’Yo,” one of her father’s most memorable songs.
“I love you, Daddywaps… I’m gonna miss you forever,” she said.
The Alejandro family has not yet released details on memorial services or tributes. They said further announcements will be made in the coming days.
Known as the “Kilabot ng mga Kolehiyala,” Hajji Alejandro rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of the Circus Band before launching a successful solo career.
He was the first winner of the Metro Manila Popular Music Festival, which cemented his status as one of the pillars of Original Pilipino Music.