Nora Aunor laid to rest at Libingan

MANILA, Philippines — National Artist Nora Aunor was laid to rest yesterday at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, following a state funeral attended by her family, friends and devoted fans.

Aunor, 71, died on April 16 due to acute respiratory failure, as confirmed by her son, Kristoffer Ian de Leon.

She was accorded full military honors, including a 21-gun salute and the ceremonial folding and presentation of the Philippine flag to her family.

The state funeral commenced with a necrological service held at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, where fellow national artists and colleagues from the film industry paid tribute to Aunor’s legacy.

The ceremony was organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

National Artist and screenwriter Ricky Lee, who wrote Aunor’s acclaimed film “Himala,” described her as a symbol of the Filipino masses.

“She chose not just to be a ‘Superstar’ but to become a true artist of the people,” he said in Filipino.

Other speakers included filmmaker Joel Lamangan, Charo Santos and President Marcos, whose message was read by NCCA chairman Victorino Manalo. They praised Aunor’s artistic brilliance, humility and profound impact on Philippine culture.

Present during the ceremony were Aunor’s children – Ian, Lotlot, Matet, Kiko and Kenneth de Leon. Celebrities such as Janine and Diego Gutierrez, Imelda Papin and Maffi Careon also paid their respects.

Music tributes were rendered by the Philippine Madrigal Singers, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra and singers Angeline Quinto and Jed Madela.

Aunor, affectionately known as the “Superstar” of Philippine cinema, was conferred the title of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022.

Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna ordered flags in the capital to be flown at half-staff until Aunor’s burial.

“Nora Aunor is a national treasure. May future generations of Filipinos remember her, watch her films and sing her songs for decades to come,” she said.

The local government of Valenzuela also paid tribute to Aunor, recalling scenes from her 1976 film “Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo,” which was partially filmed in the city.

Aunor’s family received the National Artist medallion, symbolizing her enduring contribution to Philippine arts and culture.

Hajji Alejandro, 70

Aside from “Ate Guy,” the nation also mourns the loss of another icon of Filipino music.

Following his battle with colon cancer, OPM legend Angelito “Hajji” Alejandro passed away at the age of 70.

Delara drummer Ali Alejandro, Hajji’s child with the late beauty queen Rio Diaz, announced the singer’s passing on social media yesterday.

“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. To God be the glory,” he posted.

Hajji, born on Dec. 26, 1954, is also the father of singer and actress Rachel Alejandro and chef Barni Alejandro, from his first marriage.

A celebrated balladeer, Hajji was part of the famed Circus Band in the 1970s, alongside Basil Valdez. He performed Ryan Cayabyab’s “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” which won the grand prize at the first Metro Manila Popular Music Festival in 1978.

Dubbed the “Kilabot ng Kolehiyala” in the ‘70s and ‘80s, Hajji’s other memorable hits include “Panakip Butas, Tag-Araw, Tag-Ulan” and his rendition of Apo Hiking Society’s “Nakapagtataka.” — Charmie Joy Pagulong