Filipino music icon Freddie Aguilar has died at the age of 72, reportedly due to multiple organ failure. His former partner, Josephine Quiepo, confirmed the news on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.
According to Quiepo, Aguilar passed away on Monday night at the Philippine Heart Center. He and Quiepo share children, including singer Maegan Aguilar.
The news was earlier confirmed by Atty. George Briones, general counsel of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, where Aguilar had once served as national executive vice president.
Aguilar is survived by his wife Jovie Albao and his four children from a previous marriage: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko. Jovie had been updating the public on Aguilar’s condition via social media in recent weeks.
Known as a foundational figure in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Aguilar rose to global fame with the song “Anak,” which resonated worldwide and was translated into multiple languages. His other notable works include “Bulag, Pipi At Bingi,” “Mindanao,” “Katarungan,” and “Magdalena.”
His passing marks the end of an era in Filipino music, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow artists.