OPM singer Hajji Alejandro passed away on April 21. He was 70.
There has been no official confirmation or statement from Hajji’s family as of writing. However, his daughter, Barni Alejandro, changed his Facebook cover photo on Monday, prompting an outpouring of condolence messages in the comments section.
Known as the “Kilabot ng mga Kolehiyala,” Hajji was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer earlier this year. The illness was discovered after he experienced severe bloating and difficulty breathing during a trip to Vigan. A CT scan revealed the diagnosis, leading to immediate surgery in February.
Following the operation, Hajji faced complications, including seizures and an infection that required intensive care. Despite these challenges, he returned home and began rehabilitation, regaining his ability to speak and sing.
His daughter and singer Rachel Alejandro shared in early April that her father was “doing better” and eager to return to performing.
Born Angelito Toledo Alejandro on December 26, 1954, in Alaminos, Pangasinan, Hajji rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of the Circus Band. He later embarked on a solo career, becoming the first winner of the Metro Manila Popular Music Festival with the song “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika.”
He was also behind the hit OPM songs “Panakip Butas,” “Nakapagtataka,” and “Tag-Araw, Tag-Ulan.”