Nora Aunor, widely regarded as the Philippines’ “Superstar,” died Wednesday, April 16. She was 71. Her death was confirmed by her children through social media.
“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora C. Villamayor “Nora Aunor,” who left us today, April 16, 2025 at the age of 71.
“She was the heart of our family – a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.”
Born Nora Cabaltera Villamayor on May 21, 1953, in Iriga, Camarines Sur, Aunor rose to national prominence after winning in “Tawag ng Tanghalan” in the 1960s. From selling water along the traintracks, she built a long career in music and film, recording several hit songs and making more than 150 movies, eventually becoming one of the most acclaimed and recognizable artists in Asia.
Over the course of her more than 50-year career, Aunor appeared in over 200 film and television productions. She earned numerous awards and distinctions, including five FAMAS Best Actress awards, seven Gawad Urian Best Actress awards, and several international honors. Among her most critically praised performances were in “Banaue” (1974), “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos” (1976), “Minsa’y Isang Gamu-Gamo” (1976), “Himala” (1982), “The Flor Contemplacion Story” (1995) and “Thy Womb” (2012), the latter of which earned her the Best Actress award at the 7th Asian Film Awards.
In 2022, she was conferred the title of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts for her contributions to the development of the country’s cinematic and broadcast heritage.
Aunor is survived by her children, Lotlot, Ian, Matet, Kiko and Kenneth de León, as well as her grandchildren.
Her death comes days after the death of another movie and TV legend, Pilita Corrales, who was the former mother-in-law of Aunor’s daughter Lotlot.
[UPDATE]
In an Instagram post, Lotlot de Leon announced that the wake for her mother, Nora Aunor, will be held at The Chapels at Heritage Park.
From April 17 to 18 (Thursday and Friday), the viewing will be exclusive to family and close friends. On April 19 and 20, the public will be allowed to pay their respects, with viewing hours scheduled from morning until afternoon. The final day of the wake, April 21, will again be reserved for family and close friends.
A Mass will be held each evening throughout the wake.
Interment is scheduled for April 22 at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. Further details regarding the planned State Funeral will be announced soon.
