Beloved Filipino actress and National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Nora Aunor, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 71.
Her son, Ian de Leon, confirmed her death via a heartfelt Facebook post, describing her as “the heart of our family” and a woman whose love and wisdom left a lasting mark on everyone she met. He added that further details would be released on Thursday.
Ian also wrote a touching message in Filipino, expressing deep love and sorrow: “Pahinga ka na po Ma.. nandito ka lang sa puso at isipan namin.”
Nora’s daughter, Matet de Leon, also mourned her loss, sharing wedding photos with her mother on Instagram and simply saying, “I love you mommy.”
Known as the “Superstar,” Nora Aunor carved an extraordinary legacy in Philippine entertainment. She was named National Artist in 2022 and starred in critically acclaimed films such as Himala, Bona, and Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo.
Her final projects included the films Mananambal, where she acted alongside Bianca Umali, and Pieta with Alfred Vargas. She also appeared in the GMA drama Lilet Matias: Attorney-at-Law in 2024, reuniting with Jo Berry after their 2018 series Onanay.
Aunor was also known for her golden voice, with hits like “Pearly Shells” and “Tiny Bubbles.” She married fellow actor Christopher de Leon in 1975; they later separated, and the marriage was annulled in 1996. They had five children together: Ian, Lotlot, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth.